E 185 .2 .U5873 Copy 2 P ^ -ri^j Oir TBK ! i (jMiial ftt|rninteudcnt or F R p] E I) M p; N • MCPAKTM P:N1' of TlIK I^ENIsESSEF! II .AND STATF. OF A UK A NBAS For 1864 M E M P H 1 b , T x: N N . : iCBlIdllUU BT PSRMI8»ION. i S ) 5 . ~tr /! - - - T -na . Glass Book iP i S'S 2 / (f^ sr73 4^-fy2^ REPORT OF THE ^mtul ^ n\nx'xnUn&ttit OF FREEDMEN DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE AND STATE OF ARKANSAS For 1864. * » > MEMPHIS, TENN.: PUBLISHED BY PEEMI88ION, 1 866. I- 'SS /? M cA REPORT -©- OFFICE GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE AND STATE OF ARKANSAS, IVIemphis, Tenn., December 31st, 1864. Brig. Gen. L. THOMAS, Adjutant General. U. S. A. General, — This supervision has, during the year, extended over a territory from Cairo, Southward, in the Mississippi Valley, populated, according to the census of ]860, by 770,000 blacks ; including the cities of Memphis, Yicksburg, Natchez, and Little Rock, and the military posts of Columbus, Island 10, Corinth, Helena, Du Tail's Bluff, Pine Bluff, Fort Smith, Goodrich Land . ing, Milliken's Bend, and Davis Bend. PREVIOtJS CONDITION OF THE FEEEDMEN. No phase of the former condition of this people, or of their present transition, has been excluded from our view. Previous to the time covered by this report, the officers of this supervision had more than a year's experience among the above population, observino^ and directinfi: similar causes and results. These were never fully reported. Though that experience has a direct bear- ing upon our present plans, it can be admitted here only as shaping the views, policy and facts herein epitomized. The rebellion, at the outset, began to disturb this population, by an increase from Missouri, and a decrease southward ; by the masters' diminishing the supply of clothing, — increasing or de- creasing in severity as affected by the shock of arms, — and by the seizure of the blacks, for military purposes, by the insurgents. The frequent marching and countermarching of loyal an4 dis- loyal armies, consuming or destroying the material comforts of life, such as food, shelter, and the implements of industry ; the actual shock of arms, or the terror of their motion, left hardly an individual, white or black, unaffected. It was soon evident that the strength of these regions consisted in three distinct 4 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, elements : masters, slaves and poor whites. Many of the last were forced into the rebel armies, famished with horses and better food and clothing, and their families were supported ; and, therefore, they failed to see, so soon as some of the negroes and the Southern unionists, that the interests of these elements were not only diverse, but hostile ; and that the war was the effort of the master to render irrevocably supreme the power of his own caste. Some whites looked Northward ; but the blacks illustra- ted what the history of the world has rarely seen, — a slave popu- lation, sprung from antecedent barbarism, rising up and leaving its bondage of centuries, and its ardent local traditions and asso- ciations, sundering the boasted influences and attractions of the master ; in rags or silks ; feet shod or bleeding ; individually or in families ; and pressing towards the armies characterized as " Van- dal hordes." Their comings were like the arrivals of cities. Often they met prejudices against their color, more bitter than that they had left behind. There was no Moses to lead, nor plan in their exodus. The decision of their instinct or unlettered reason brought them to us. They felt that their interests were identical with the objects of our armies. This identity of interest, slowly but surely, came to be perceived by our officers and soldiers, and by the loyal public. They gave information for the guidance of campaigns ; laborers for the various staff departments ; took upon themselves all the serving of the army for officers, hospitals, &g. ; and soon were accepted as capable of the soldier's discipline and endurance in all arms of the service, and worthy of a soldier's pay and honor. Out of those who came within our lines, proba- bly not less than 80,000 have either died in the United States service, or are still in it as laborers or soldiers. But there was a background to this sublime march of events. Ignorance ; perverted ideas — taking liberty for idleness — em- bracing all the fostered vices and crimes of the old system, cringing deceit, theft, absence of chastity, and of the safeguards and promptings of the family relation ; tatters, nakedness, torn limbs ; women in travail ; helpless childhood ; age and decrepi- tude ; multiform sickness and unwept death. The sublime dash- inscs and roar of the sura:e could not conceal the wreck or drown the piercing cry of distress. The army shared its own food, shelter and clothing ; charity, gathering in its small rills from the loyal mountains and valleys, came forward in a full, gushing stream, bearing laborers and material. DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 6 GEXERAL GRANT AND THE ARMY. The laws of Congress had freed some; the proclamation, all. The law of the array, here the only expression of the law of the land, beo:an to declare itself in behalf of the blacks. All the wise and humane devisings and issues of General Grant, antedate the past year, though pervading its events, as they must those oi the future. It is not unworthy of note here, that the army, though em- bracintr in itself all the instrumentalities for the destruction of its foe, at whatever cost of comfort, treasure and life ; though having in it the usual admixture of good and bad ; though look- ed upon by many benevolent people, as only another master for the black ; has done all that has been done to free, feed, shelter, protect and give him medical attendance ; and has formed the only safe channel for the benevolence, that has come to his aid ; nay, has added to protection, transportation, rations and quarters. More than all this, it ha*s sought out of its forms for administer- ing justice, an adaptation to the peculiar condition of these freed people. This has been the work in the hands ot my officers and my- self To some extent, it maj- have affected all of the above 770,000, during the year; but direct authority has reached them only when they or their employers have come within our lines; and this report must be, necessarily, subject to the usual military limitations. I cannot stop even to mention the circumstances of their removal from Corinth and Island 10. My object is not so much to detail the history, as to concentrate those events, facts and opinions, which may serve to throw light upon the future. DUTY UNDER ORDERS NO. 94. Special orders, Xo. 94, (of the Secretary of War, issued by Adjutant General Thomas, at Goodrich Landing, La,, Nov. 5th, 1863,) provides that the General Superintendent ot Freedraen shall assign, " The Field and StofF of the Regiments raised by him, for the super- vision and protection of tliese people and their industry, to duty as Gen-' cral Assistants, and the companies and their commanders to local duty. All Assistant Superintendents will be subject to his order. " This supervision will embrace the general guardianship of all in- terests of the freed people ; their registration ; all necessary permits and contracts for labor with private parties, lessees, officers, citizens, or others ; the provision of industry for them in camp, or on plantations ; determine the location of camps, the occupation of plantations to be worked by the 6 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, infirm, vagrant, or idle, and all others necessarily or temporarily in charge of the Government. " No freed people will be recruited or ordered out of camp, except- ing through the officer in charge. " Superintendents will encourage the people to answer calls to indus- try, by voluntary agreement to labor, and enforce the inviolability of the agreement. " To prevent the frequent infringement of the interests of these people, and secure proper uniformity to the action of the Government, there will be no change of the regulations, • forms of contracts, permits, &c., except through the General Superintendent." THE GUARD REGIMENTS. The organization of these regiments, approved by General Grant, and ordered by the Secretary of War, (by Adjutant Gen- eral Thomas,) for this special purpose, has not only proved emi- nently serviceable, but the only instrumentality for the execution of the above order. TERRITORIAL DITISIONS. To facilitate the work, the territory was divided into the Districts of West Tennessee, office at Memphis, Capt, T. A. Wal- ker, Supt. ; Arkansas, office at Little Rock, Maj W. G. Sargent, Supt. ; with local offices at Helena, Capt. A. L. Thayer ; Pine Bluff, Capt. Mallory ; Du Vall's Bluff, Lt. W. Davis ; and Fort Smith ; District of Vicksburg, office at Vicksburg, Col. Samuel Thomas, Supt. and Provost Marshal, assisted by Lieut. Col. A. L. Mitchell, at Natchez ; Capt. Norton, at Davis Bend ; Lieut. Thirds, at Vidalia ; Lieut. Mathews, at Goodrich Landing ; and Capt. Weber, at Vicksburg. WHAT SHALL WE DO WITH THEM? The change of the negro's position at once excited to activ- ity all the old prejudices regarding him, and renewed, in various forms, the old conflicts over the question, W^hat shall be done with him? Shall he still be treated as, in fact, a slave to the in- dividual, or be required to work for the Government, without supplies, pay, or the consideration that was accorded to him when he was of value as a marketable commodity ? Or shall he be free? Shall these men and women, long abused, whose industry was the source of all the regal wealth which adorned the South- ern palaces ; who have come over from the enemy to our help, be held deserving of our consideration ? Shall they, who have been robbed of manhood, — of the very essentials of improve- DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 7 ment in personal character and condition, receive from us due sympathy ? Shall they, who, whatever their capacity, yet need our temporary care, until they become conscious of their ability to use the instrumentalities around them for their good, be refused our help ? Shall they, who, as laborers, could give effi- ciency to the staff departments of the army ; or, as soldiers, form regimental organizations, and thus promote military ends, be thoughtlessly pushed aside ? Shall they, who are familiar with the by-paths and cotton piles ; and could become the carriers of supplies through our lines to the enemy ; or, as the tillers of this rich soil, rendered a hundred fold more productive by the in creased value of the cotton fibre ; and thus the negro, himself, a hundred fold more an object of the consideration of speculative capital ; be disregarded by Government ? PREJUDICES. In the midst of all the conflicts of interests, which arose out of this state of affairs, and of the temptations incidental to the occasion ; and of the scramble that ensued, among various par- ties, for emolument ; and of fellow-officers, who, not only did not respect, but found a peculiar pleasure in obstructing, the settled policy of the Government — and sneering at the "nigger men" — my assistants were exposed to a test more severe to moral courage than the battle-field, and more trying to judicial and business capacity, than any amount of perplexity in more peace- ful and common scenes. It is not surprising that some officers failed, or that it was difficult to secure and retain those most faithful. Those who have stood the test, could have no better proof of official merit. DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR. In addition to this territorial subdivision of labor among my assistants, the importance of three classes of interests, namely : The control of property ; the supply of medicines and medical attendance ; and the arrangement of educational affairs, render- ed it necessary that I should have one officer, whom I could hold responsible for each of these classes of labor. In respeot to ed- ucation, during nine months, this plan was defeated by circum- stances beyond my control. Lieut. B. K. Johnston was assign- ed to duty as A. A. Q. M., and A. C. S., of Freedmen, and has done much for the economicol management of property j render- 8 EEPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, ing satisfactory reports to Washington, as usually required of officers of those Departments. To meet the medical necessities, Dr. D. O. McCord, Surgeon, 63rd U. S. C. L, was designated Surgeon-in-chief of Freedraen. His powers, by this assignment, proved inadequate. The sanitary condition of the people was appalling. Neither medicines nor surgeons were at hand. Every one acknowledged the importance of doing something. The distress and confusion were met by Orders 114, of the Secretary of War, issued by Adjt. Gen. Thomas, making Surgeon McCoid, Medical Director, with power to employ surgeons and control medicines. NO MONEY DRAWN FROM GOVERNMENT. All officers handling supplies, received from the Govern- ment, adjusted their methods of business, forms of reports, vouchers, &c., to army regulations. Not a cent of money has ever been drawn from Government, for the Freedmen, on any account, A careful use of the tax, temporarily required by orders 63, and of funds accruing from the profits of labor of the department, under the care of the different superintendents, has met all the incidental expenses of these wide spread operations ; paid five thousand dollars for hospitals ; the salaries of all hos- pital stewards and medical assistants as per Orders 94, and enabled us to supply to the people, aside from the abandoned property, implements of industry, &c., secured to their benefit, clothing, household utensils, and other articles, essential to their comfort, which they could not have secured, otherwise, at less than three hundred and fifty thousand dollars. The management of these funds and supplies, has sprung out of the exigencies of the people's condition ; adapted, as far as necessary, to army methods ; requiring a rigid system of accounts, monthly reports covered . by certificates and vouchers, followed up by careful inspections, not only from this office, but the different commanding Generals. GENERAL ASSISTANTS. H. B, Spelman, Esq., widely known for his scrupulous hon. esty and business experience. President of one of the Freedmen Aid Societies, has been employed to market the crop now closing out. Chaplain A. S. Fisk, ordered to report to me by General Grant ; Chaplain Joseph Warren, D. D., by General McPherson ^ and Chaplain James A. Ilawley, in accordance with Orders 94, DEPARTMENT OF TNE TENNESSEE. 9 have efficiently aided in charge of the people, making inspections, checking vices, and coutroling those instrumentalities which more closely affect the moral and social sentiments of the Freedmen. PARTIES GIVIXG INFORMATION. The parties who are best able to furnish the facts under this supervision, upon which depend questions of future management, are, 1st. The Superintendents and Provost Marshals of Freed- men ; 2nd. The Freedmen themselves ; 3rd. Their employers ; 4th. Their teachers ; 5th. Commanding officers. This testimony has been carefully sought. I shall endeavor to group it as ex- actly and briefly as possible for the fair judgment of others. DIFFICULTIES AXD EFFORTS. The uncertainty attending all classes of interests and business under my care has been most embarrassing ; interests that must be cared for; business that must be done ; but to do which no one would indicate exactly how. I need not state how many efforts have been adverse to my purposes, or how far the plans I have been required to execute have differed from those I should have counseled. It is due, however, that I should state, that I have been entirely deceived in my own purposes, if I have not endeavored to conduct these affairs, so new, so complicated and perplexing, so far reaching in their consequences, as a great ex- periment : carefully testing each principle, and abiding by the result, with a single aim to discharge my duty to my country, by giving effect to the relations of the Government to these people ; in the temporary support of the absolutely dependent ; in the aid of those able in some measure to help themselves, and in the execution of justice towards all. Nor should I fail to add, that no one can feel the inadequate results of my efforts as keenly as I do myself. ASSISTANT GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT. The fmportance of giving my personal attention, at remote points, to difficulties, to plans and inspections, necessitated the appointment of Col. Samuel Thomas, as Assistant General Su- perintendent, with full authority to act in my absence. This not only extended his duties, but rendered them more complicated. He has limited himself in his report, however, to the operations in his own district. His territory, as he remarks : 10 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, EAELY CONDITION OF VICKSBURG DISTRICT. " In nearly every part was a camping ground for a large army dur- ing the Vlcksburg campaign, breaking up the plantations, scattering the negroes, and compelling them to seek protection and aid, in large numbers ; and since that time the District has been the scene of campaigns innumer- able, made by small forces on both sides, keeping the country in a disturb- ed and excited state. Whatever has been done, has been accomplished in the face of a guerrilla warfare, that cannot be surpassed for vindictiveness and cruelty. Many of the guerrillas were natives, well acquainted with the country, and feeling that they were driving from their own homes the negroes and Yankees, have exhibited a ferocity which only Camanches can equal." NATCHEZ — MAJOR YOUNG. " Our occupation of Natchez and the disappearance of many rich planters, induced the negroes there, also, to gather around our lines in thousands. Nothing was done for their permanent good, until Major Geo. W. Yonng was appointed my assistant at that post, in November, 1863. Unable to obtain assistants, nobly discharging the duties of his office himself, he introduced cleanliness, health and comfort, into their camp, by rebuilding their houses and adding chimneys, floors and win- dows. In a few months he prompted to industry all but 600 out of the 5,000 reported dependent upon the Government. He fought a regular campaign with the old slave ideas and notions of the wealthy Southern- ers of the city, defending the interests of the black man, even against some of his superior officers." DISTRESS AT TOUNG'S POINT. *' Our eflPorts to do anything for these people, as they herded to- gether in masses, when founded on any expectation that they would help themselves, often failed ; they had become so completely'" broken down in spirit, through suffering, that it was almost impossible to arouse them. The camp at Young's Point, during the summer of 1863, had been a vast charnel house — thousands of the people dying, without well ones enough to inter the dead." Others of these massive gatherings of the people were in little better condition. Col. Thomas observes : "I hope I may never be called on again to witness the horrible scenes I saw in those first days of the history of the Freedmen in the Mississippi Valley. Assistants were hard to get, especially the kind that would do any good in our camps. A detailed soldier in each camp of a thousand people was the best that could be done. His duties were so onerous that he ended by doing nothing." DEPARTMENT OP THE TENNESSEE. 11 LABOE ITS EFFECT. " Our first efforts were to get the people at some kind of labor. Axes and teams were sent to the camps ; wood cutting and hauling, and the erection of cabins commenced ; disease left them ; spirit returned ; there was improvement on all hands. Plans were devised to enforce hon- est payment for their industry in all directions. " A great deal has been said against camping large bodies of them together. We have endeavored to avoid this by all reasonable means ; but humanity said, place them were they will be protected from guerrillas, even if there be greater danger from disease. Islands were selected. General Grant once visited Paw Paw Island, in the midst of his untold efforts, for the purpose of promoting the comfort and enterprise of the people. Little was accomplished, however, till after the fall of Vicksburg. At Goodrich Landing we urged the adoption of the same simple means of industry ; but that place not being under the charge of this supervision, no one was able to keep the tottering plan on its legs. Still considerable was done ; though there were few visible results, when the people were thrown upon my hands. Several teachers and other benevolent persons were in the field aiding us in fighting the difficulties step by step ; making some perceptible advancement, but so slow that the boldest and most stout hearted were often discouraged at the small results. " In reviewing the condition of the people at that time, I am not surprised at the marvelous stories told by visitors, who caught an occa- sional glimpse of the misery and wretchedness in these camps. " All felt that we were tiying an experiment ; but none of us doubt- ed final success. No one felt that slavery was a divine institution ; but the great question at this time was, whether we had pursued a wise course ? All did not, at first, see that the devastating influence of a cam- paign through the country had reduced to starvation and beggary, whites as well as blacks, and that their wretched condition was but the naturaj result of the tremendous transition affecting all colors and classes. The only way for the negro to get out of the darkness that shrouded his pros- pects, was by patient toil, and the slow process that has discouraged so many. The poor slave, in his blindness, felt it was a bad exchange to leave the well filled smokehouses and comfortable cabins of his master's plantation, and get instead, the crowded tents and hard fare of our camps. Some white men, who think liberty and manliness not worth so much as a full stomach, felt as the slaves did. " New men were placed in charge of the camps, to take the places of unworthy and inefficiency ones, and every effort was made to inaugurate a new system, and meet the demands of the people by an activity on our part that would encourage them to press forward." ARKANSAS. Major Sargent reached his field of labor in January, 1864. " There had been various attempts at local supervision of the people in Arkansas. At Helena, before the place came under this supervision, 12 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, the experience of the people had been much like that at Young's Point ; the mortality, as is well known, was great ; the destitution was immense ; the freedmen in a loose, disorganized condition ; no well regulated system of compensated labor; no well defined authoritative supervision. The freedmen camps had been broken up and destroyed by the advance and retreat of the rebel army. There were various changes of Supermten- dents, one of whom, I understand, never visited the camps, while acting in that capacity." Similar statements could be greatly multiplied. Dr. McCord, Medical Director, ordered a thorough inspection, by Surgeon Wright, of the whole field. Dr. Wright's statements fully correspond with the above. CLOTHING PROVIDED. The necessities for clothing were met, as far as possible, by the use of deceased soldiers' clothing, turned over by hospitals in obedience to orders from the Secretary of War, by Adjutant Gen. Thomas ; by using the funds on hand to bring forward sup- plies from the North ; and by donations received from various benevolent sources. Chaplain A. S. Fisk, by direction of Gen. Grant, was sent to represent, to the loyal public, the necessities of the winter. As the result of his efforts, goods to the amount of more than $100,000 were reported forwarded through the channels of various benevolent societies. ARRANGEMENTS FOR LABOR. In reference to former plantation hands, all looked for a supply of labor on the soil at the opening of the season. I pro- posed first, that commanders should indicate the limits within which security could be assured. Second, that within these limits all negroes able to conduct independent enterprises, as lessees, should take out leases for small farms from the Treasury Department. Third, that those capable of such enterprises, but without means to prosecute them, should receive the needed as- sistance from benevolent individuals or societies ; or subsistence and other incidental aid from the Government — the amount to be deducted from the first income of the crop. Fourth, that sufficient land, houses, &c., should be reserved for shelter and industry of all those necessarily dependent. I had invited bene- volent societies to come forward and furnish funds, agents, ly them with necessary goods at a fair per cent, above cost ; reserving the profit as a fund to relieve the necessitous. 7. Have the people been led to invest much in trifles ? Col. Thomas : — They have not. 8. TIow severely have the people been tasked with labor? Worked how many hours per day? How many days per week ? Col. Thomas : — No complaints can be made against the planters in this thing. The Freedmen regulated the matter to suit themselvs, and (piit work when tlicy thouglit they had done as much as they ought. Lieut. Col. IVIitchell : — The people have worked, on an average, eight hours pc)- day, live days in the week. Maj. Sargent: — The Freedmen have not complained of over- work. They, usually, on plantations, have Saturday afternoons to themselves. 9. Has labor been exacted on rainy or stormy days ? Col. Thomas : — It has not. 10. Have Planters succeeded in developing industry ? 60 REPORT OP SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, Col. Thomas: — No. Freedmen have worked well, but not better than slaves used to work. Independent labor on plantations, in wood- 3^ards and in cities, has done more to develop industry than any other kind. Lt. Col. Mitchell : — Same as above. Maj. Sargent : — In a much greater degree than might have been sup- posed, when we consider that their notions of liberty were, rest from la- bor, and comparative idleness. 11. If so, by what methods, and to what extent? Col. Thomas : — Freedmen have been worked about as they always were ; but not with the old inhumanity and cruelty. Lt. Col. Mitchell : — Same as above. Major Sargeant : — By the authority vested in us, as Superintendents, to compel the able bodied to labor ; the motive of compensation ; the hon- or at stake of fidtilling their contracts ; and the incentive of a bonus and extra compensation offered by planters. 12. Compare the practical results of Freedom and Sla- very. Col. Thomas : — See ans. to Ques. 28. Lt. Col. Mitchell : — The circumstances surrounding labor have not af- forded a fair result, or sufficient data for comparison. Maj. Sargent: — No answer. 13. What wages have been paid, and how? Col. Thomas : — Generally, in accordance with Orders No. 9. Lt. Col. Mitchell: — Since the seas(m for cotton picking opended, hands have been paid by the 100 pounds, receiving from 40 to 75 cts. Maj. Sargent : — Generally, in accordance with Orders 9. 14 and 15, Recommend any judicious plan of compensa- tion, and compare any of the plans already adopted and propo- sed. Col. Thomas : — As set forth in answer to Question 6, preferable. Lt. Col. Mitchell : — Can recommend no improvements, except to al- low the negroes to make their own bargains in regard to wages. Maj. Sargent: — No answ^er. 16. What Medical attention have the people received? Col. Thomas : — Veiy little indeed — only in extreme cases. Lt. Col. Mitchell : — A supply of medicines is usually kept on the plan- tations, and in some cases administered by the overseer ; sometimes by a "doctor woman," who devotes her time to this. Regular physicians have seldom been employed. Major Sargent : — Medicines have been furnished by Government, and attendance given by Hospital stewards in some localities ; though in the main, a sad deficiency has occurred in supplying the wants of these people in this particular. 17. What success or neglect of schools have you noticed ? DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 61 Col. Thomas : — Schools have been neglected on Plantations. It has been almost impossible to keep them, and no effort has been made to do so. Lt. Col. Mitchell : — Schools have been kept on two plantations in this District. Maj. Sargent : — Schools have been successfully inaugurated in towns and near wood-yards ; but entirely neglected on plantations, save in one or two instances. 18. What improvement in their domestic relations have you seen, and what credit do you give the lessee for any you have observed ? Col. Thomas : — They have improved in their domestic relations as they have a natural Jdesire to do. Planters have not done what they ought, to assist in this respect ; but have used their influnce in some de- giee on the side of truth and right. Lt. Col. Mitchell : — Same as above. Maj. Sargent: — A marked improvement. The lessee, perhaps, is en- titled to very little of the credit ; for it is attributable to ^the Freedman's own desire for such improvement. 19. What increasing regard for truth and the rights of property do you observe ? Col. Thomas : — An improvement. The fact that each one now pos- sesses something of his own, makes him careful to guard what he has ; and disinclines him from stealing from others, and gives rise to mutual agreements on this subject. Again, the abolishment of the degrading and inhuman punishments, once so prevalent, has removed one great cause of untruth. The influence of teachers, in localities wliere those laborers can be found, has tended to improve their morals as well as their minds. Lt. Col. MitcheU : — No answer. Maj. Sargent : — Much improvement. The rights of property are re- garded, and few cases apjx'ar before our Freedmen's Judicial Tribunals, based upon violations in this particular. 20. What progress do you see in their disposition to labor steadily ; to remain at home ; and to be quiet ? Col. Thomas : — But little change can be noticed in these particulars. An independent course of thinking does not tend to make people steadily industrious, continuers at home or quiet citizens, when they see that the rules and regulations for their guidance, which they had no part in ma- king, are not as beneficent as they should be. Lt. Col. Mitchell : — There seems to be some improvement, though it is not general. Maj. Sargent : — They have, in all branches of the Government ; with citizens ; with officers ; and with lessees, labored steadily and quietly. 21. Are Military orgarizations and instrumentalities neces- sary, in the present disturbed state of the country, to secure the bests interests both of the negro and his employer ? 62 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, Col. Thomas : — Absolutely and vitally necessary. Lt. Col. Mitchell : — Same as above. Maj. Sargent: — i^bsolutely necessary. More complaints have been made by lessees for lack of Military organizations to protect them, than from all other sources together. Indeed, most of the lessees seemed to ex- pect that the whole Military strength of the Government would be useful for their own benefit. 22. Should men, who have cruelly mistreated their labor- ers, be permitted to lease lands of the Government ? Col. Thomas : — Certainly not. Lt. Col. Mitchell : — Same as above. Maj. Sargent : — They should not. 23. State any facts which shew the progress of the Freed- men ; that display the best means of their improvement and ele- vation, and the utility of this Department in achieving this ob- ject. [Col. Thomas, and Major Sargent, give ^no specific answer to this Question, but refer to the general tenor of their reports which have been so fully quoted here.] Lt. Col. Mitchell :— Affairs have been very much disorganized in this district ; out of the twenty-five plantations leased in one parish, all but two have been raided, some of them repeatedly ; working stock, clothing, bedding, everything portable carried away, and the rest destroyed. Many lessees have been made prisoners by the guerrillas, and two have been killed. Many negroes, too, have been driven off. Forty-four were taken at one time, from a single plantation, and have not been heard from since. Owing to these facts, but little chance has existed to test these questions. Among the evils that deserve notice and demand a remedy, are — the neg- lect of the lessees to furnish proper and sufficient food to the hands, and care and medicines for the sick. There seems to be a general and well- founded complaint in these respects. The looseness with which accounts are kept between employers and laborers, gives the latter no power to de- tect fraud or imposition. This too requires attention. PKOVOST MARSHAL SYSTEM. The following, from Col. Thomas' Keport, will show the working of the Provost Marshal system : By the provisions of Orders No. 9, Assistant Provost Marshals were to be appointed to enforce its execution. They were promptly appoint- ed, and entered upon their duties without precedents to guide them. It is not, therefore, astonishing that, in discharging their duties, they often made mistakes ; and some may have been influenced in their decisions b}^ favors from Planters. Their instructions were to have all the parties to a case notified, so that all the evidence might be brought forward, and just conclusions formed. Many cases have been referred to me for investiga- DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 63 tion, when the Assistant Provost Marshal felt that he was not competent to decide them. " Planters were prone to bring frivolous cases before the Provost Marshals ; as for instance, that a negro was late in getting to work ; and thus sought to throw little details of government upon their hands. It was difficult to see what to do with such cases, except to dismiss them in order to attend to more serious affairs ; and then the planters accused the officers of inefficiency. " The complaints demanding most attention were those of abuse made by Freedmen. Planters had often to be reminded, that they were not work- ing slaves, and that abuses of this kind could not be tolerated. Questions of pay, time worked, and other points came up, arising out of ditferent constructions of Orders 9. The Provost Marshals are kept busy, riding from place to place, examining books and bills, and gathering information for an honest settlement of Freedmen's affairs. " Several Provost Marshals have been removed for failure in duty, or from suspicions of taking bribes. Every effort has been made to ren- der them efficient ; and those who complain of any inefficiency, whether they are employer or employee, should remember the large extent of country under one man's control, and the hundreds of people that requir- ed his attention. The records of their offices attest their industr3^" ARKAXSAS INSPECTION. The information from Arkansas lias so far been presented in merely fragmentary quotations from Major Sargent's Reports, and those of his assistants. A more detailed statement is found in the following report of Lt. Col. Eaton, G9th U. S. C. L, Avho was ordered to make a rigid inspection of the posts in that State. He has gone over the whole field with great care, at all of the in- terior points. The inspection at Helena was less thorough, on account of the lateness of his arrival. He has penetrated not only the facts, but the philosophy they suggest. His report is given entire. Special attention will be attracted by his remarks u^on the selt-support of the blacks, their disposition to labor, tfec, compared w4th poor whites. On this point it may be remarked, that more wdiites than blacks are now fed by the Government at Memphis. It will also be noticed that there seems to be a great dif!erence of cliaracter in favor of lessees in Arkansas, compared with those near Vicksburg and Natchez ; as well as greater security of plantations, less loss of lives among laborers, and of mules and supplies among the plan- ters; resulting from the fact that the fanciful, or otherwise unpracti- cal schemes, which obtained so strong an influence at other points, took less hold there. Plantations were leased more nearly within 64 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, the limits suggested by military advice, and the freedmen were treated more strictly as required by my officers. Of the 11,303 freedmen repoi'ted in the working season, only 985 were drawing rations. Even these were doing work more than sufficient for their own support ; and had not the ravages of the worm taken place, a very large protit would have been derived from their labor. Little Rock, Arkansas, December 17, 18G4. Lieut. John F. Perry, Adjutant Freedmeu's Department. Lieutenant, — In compliance with the order of Col. John Eaton, Jr., General Superintendent of Freedmen, appointing me Inspector of Freed- men for the State of Arkansas, I have the honor to submit the following- report : — ACCOUNTS. In looking over the books of the Superintendents of Freedmen in this State, I tind the accounts kept with apparent honesty and accuracy ; but not, excepting those of the State Superintendent, with that neat order and completeness, and witli all items substantiated by such vouchers as the Army Regulations and the instructions of the General Superinten- dent require. When each superior, as is proposed, demands of his sub- ordinates, in monthly settlements, a duplicate of the vouclier for each re- ceipt or disbursement, the safety of these officers, as well as the good of the service, will be enhanced. quartbrmaster's returns. Beside money belonging to the Freedmen's Department, a large amount of Quartermaster's stores passes through the hands of these offi- cers ; but some forget that they are held responsible, like other officers, to the Quartermaster General, and fail to make the proper returns. OFFICIAL RECORDS. Nor are the records of orders given and received, of contracts and passes, of complaints with the witnesses and findings, and of official let- ters and papers with their endorsements and answers, as complete as is desirable. Blank books, suitably ruled, are needed for this purpose. PASSES. There is great want of uniformity in passes. The blanks vary in form. At Helena they are given only to those wishing to go in and out of tlie lines. At the other posts all are required to obtain them ; but there are no regular patrols to enforce the orders. Tliey are eagerly sought for by the men, as they secure them from conscription and disturbance. Many of the women have obtained them ; but not being interfered with except on special complaints, as many more have neglected to do so. The DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 65 necessitj^ of correct information in regard to the avocations of all, that the Superintendents may be enabled to check vagrancy and corruption, and the unduly crowding of any particular business, is too apparent, to one conversant with the life of these people in cities, to need comment. By reason of these deficiences any estimate of the number of Freed- men, who enjoy the protection of this Supervision, by the number of pas- ses, is far below the actual census. Excepting at Helena the pass for the emploj^ee has been obtained by the employer, and has answered for the contract of hire. And, rightly, the acceptance of labor should ensure reasonable wages ; and while the conditions on which the labor of Freedmen may be obtained are accsssible to all, the pass would appear to be sufficient without greater formahty. The only security of pay and suitable treatment, by either formal contract or pass, is the efficiency of this Supervision. The simplest form would, therefore, seem preferable. Large numbers, beyond the lines, have been regularly hired. Some planters have come in forty miles to obtain passes, and thereby secure their hands and their crops. The adoption of compensated labor any- where is gratifying ; but the danger of the products of such labor falling to the enemy, and the urgent demand for more labor at every post in the State, make it desirable that as many as possible should be brought in. Although the value to the enemy of cribs full of com and stacks of forage is duly appreciated by our officers, the importance of the laborer who makes all these is comparatively unnoticed. It must strike every one, that the most serviceable foraging is that which not only deprives the en- emy of the present crop, but disables him for making any surplus in future. I would respectfull}' suggest, that all blanks for passes be issued from the general office ; that a reference to the number of each previous pass be made, so that the whereabouts of each person at any time may be ascertained; and that those to go beyond the lines be more carefully registered. CONDUCT OF EMPLOYERS. It has been difficult for late masters and mistresses to recognize the equality of themselves and their former slaves before martial law. Many outrages were perpetrated upon their persons and property after the occu- pancy of these posts hj our troops. Little attention was paid to the negro. But through the necessity and profit of his labor to citizens, the large demand by the army, and the consequent scarcity, and above all the speedy redi-ess obtained through this Supei-vision, the rights of the blacks have become well-nigh as secure as those of the whites. At some posts, where this Supervision is not interfered with, they obtain justice with fiir less delay. A few planters of the old regime have in good foith embraced the new order of things. But the great majority of them acquiesce only through compulsion ; and, as they hope their subjugation will be but tem- porary, they are at pains to retain their former slaves as near them and as 66 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, much within their knowledge as possible. These have naturally exchang- ed curses and punishments for entreaties and cajolery, and tirades against the restraints of lawful freedom. The planters from the north, with few exceptions, have treated their laborers with marked fairness, and often with generosity. Many of them were disabled officers and soldiers from our army. Kefractory and indolent laborers have been turned over to the Super- intendents ; and there has been scarcely an attempt at any kind of pun- ishment, much less the cruel and unusual. The moral influence of mili- tary power backing all reasonable demands of the planters, as shown by these occasional examples of offenders, has been most happy and effectual. It is the testimony of nearly all planters, whether southern or nor- thern, that they could not have expected any set of laborers to work bet- ter than theirs. They have, in some cases, returned to their work after being repeatedly driven away by guerrillas, and when no white dared to go near. There are a few instances, where they have been furnished arms, of their repulsing these marauders. It is to be remarked too, very credita- bly to the negro, that those who have cared most for the interest of their la- borers, have been rewarded by the greatest cheerfulness and the heartiest good will. The sullenness of the old regime has disappeared. A won- derfully keen scent for [the direction of their interests already charac- terizes this once stolid race. They have discovered an alacrity, a faith- fulness and an honor — not by any means to a degree that is to be hoped for — yet sufficient to compel the acknowledgement of those who declared that freedom would make this people nothing but thieving and licentious vagabonds. WAGES. The wages announced in the Treasury Regulations, and approved by Gen. Thomas, have been the lowest paid. The change allowed by subse- quent orders was adopted by but few outside of Helena. The regulation of wages by age or strength alone has been found unjust, and would be little regarded by a planter in hiring his laborers again. During the cotton-picking season, nearly all were paid by the pound, and earned from one to seven dollars per day. Many have been allowed a third or half of the crop, and have realized, though the season was poor, handsome profits. Among them are not a few of remarkable judgment and force of character, who have been engaged at their own prices as foremen. The earnings of those in the cities have largely exceeded those on the plantations. The planters say that they are indifferent to the rates of pay, if they can obtain the laborers. Considering the enormous in- come from an ordinary crop, and the scarcity of labor, the wages which have been, for the most part, the minimum in orders, is far too small. If employers were allowed to put in bids with their request for hands, to the Post Superintendents, and the people enabled to take advantage of the highest offers, greater fairness and a considerable advance would be ob- tained. Those who bear the heat and burden of the fields deserve the larger share of the gains. DEPARTMENT OP THE TENNESSEE. 67 SHOET SETTLEMENTS. The rights of the blacks, in person and property, have been so long outraged by the whites, that they are exceedingly distrustful. Only by frequent and regular settlements will their pay have its full stunulus to exertion. Those planters who, through the cotton-picking season, met the dues of their laborers promptly every week, accomplished a third more than those who paid irregularly. The Government would not be burdened with the sick and help- less more than at present if planters were required to take their hands by the year, and settle by the month ; while the negro would do more work with greater confidence, and deserve better pay. If any stoppage was to be made for loss of time through sickness, it could be more satisfactorily adjusted. And a proper account in this way could be as readily inspected and audited by the Superintendents, at the close of the year, as any other. The oftener they can safely exercise their judgment in saving or spending their pay, the sooner they will be fitted for independent transactions. FOOD AND CLOTHING. To this end they should receive their wages in foil ; and the ma- terials for food and clothing should be furnished at reasonable prices, and conveniently, so that they may purchase for themselves. Rations, ex- cepting in a few instances, where they have been regularly dealt out, have been kept in this way at the plantations. Clothing has also been furnish- ed at some ; but elsewhere than at Helena they have, for the most part, depended for this upon the stores kept in town by Goverment agents. An immense saving in food is effected ; and there are provided responsible persons, without inducement to cajole them to squander their money, with whom they can take their first lessons in trading with safety. All unite in saying, that without protection from frauds in change and exorbitant prices, they would scarce be able to clothe themselves. Especially is this true of the more distant posts ; as Pine Bluff". At this place, while do- mestics were selling in town at $1 25 per yard, the same quality and width could be obtained at the Freedmen's Store at sixty cents. At Little Rock so large was the trade of the blacks, that these stores benefited the whites as well, by lowering, throughout the city, the demands of the tra- ders. Durable material, for necessary articles, is off'ered at these stores, rather than fashionable and gaudy trash. IMPROVEMENT IN TASTE. The good taste and practical sense of the negroes, as discovered in their purchases, though not by any means unexceptionable, would surprise a stranger. They scout the wild and gorgeous colors they once preferred. You would scarce anywhere find a house full of day laborers so well and neatly clad as of a Sunday at the Colored Churches at Little Rock. The gay extravagance of the blacks is often animadverted upon ; but it only appears in a respectful notice of the Sabbath. On Monday those who were dressed as though their income were thousands, appear in homely 68 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, suits, becoming their avocations. Their fine clothes are therefore not expensive. No complaints of the quantity or quality of food have been heard of, with the exception of a few cases at Helena, which have been reported by Major Sargent, the State Superintendent. \ HOUSES. At the plantations they have occupied the old quarters. In the town they have built log houses by hundreds, which form little villages. In Little Rock there are several of these. One is known as "Lickskillet ;" and another as "Brownsville." The houses are not arranged in streets, and seem to have grown up in their places as indifferently as mushrooms. Their roofing is of shakes. Most have floors, but boards cannot be ob- tained without great difficulty. Few have any windows. They are com- fortable ; and although not as good as they will soon be able to build, they are fair specimens of the dwellings of a large share of the white people in Arkansas. At Helena boards are plentier, and the houses of those in the town are better than elsewhere. As will be inferred, the attention of Superintendents is needed to prevent irregularity. Indeed no houses should be located without his con- sent. Many are furnished with abundance and kept with neatness. But an occasional inspection is needed by many more, to quicken their pride and elevate their taste. SCHOOLS. The planters hired laborers with as few children as possible. The number on each plantation did not, therefore, seem to warrant separate schools ; and the combination of those so far apart seemed equally im- practicable. No schools of this sort are reported. But in the towns, and at the Home Farms, these privileges have been enjoyed and appreciated. They crowd the school rooms. Soldiers and laborers carry about them their speller or reader, and are frequently overheard reciting to each other. LACK OF SCHOOL HOUSES. There is great difficulty in obtaining houses for this purpose, more especially at the Home Farms. In the towns churches are opened, but not enough to accommodate all. It is worthy of note, that in the Capital of Arkansas, there was not a single school-house. Although more teach- ers are still needed, charities in the form of school-houses are more urgently demanded. By the enforcement of late orders the Freedmen Department will soon be enabled to pay teachers without assistance. The earnings of these people in towns are so large, that they can readily pay tuition. The feeling of self-dependence awakened, gratifies and elevates them. SUPERINTENDENTS AND TEACHERS. The Superintendents of Schools provided in orders have not reached the interior posts. Their duties have been performed by the Superinten- DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 69 dents of Freeclmen. It is hoped that they will soon arrive. j\[r. Allen at Helena is an efficient Superintendent, and is doing a good work. The lady teachers have been most devoted to their work, and by rea- son of the ease with which discipline is mamtained in these schools, and the childlike character, as well as attainment, of those people, they have been by far the more successful. Some gentlemen, like the Rev. Mr. Todd at Pine Bluff, more interested in the good of these people than jealous for the aggrandizement of their sect or association, have been exceedingly useful. The presence of such teachers as Mr. Todd, Mrs. Thomas and Miss Warren, at the Home Farm of Pine Bluff, and of Mr. and Mrs. Bar- stow at that of Little Rock, has had an elevating and restraining influence of as great moral value as teaching itself The colored people have already a representative among the teach- ers in the person of Rev. Ajidrew Wallace, of Little Rock. INDUSTKIAL SCHOOL. The only Industrial School in the State is at Helena. Here girls and women are taught in the cutting and sewing of garments for both sexes, and at the same time are paid for what they are able to do. The most art- ful housewife would here be surprised with new schemes in domestic economy. Old pants are transformed into new aprons. An old arni)^ overcoat furnishes a lady's cape, a boy's jacket and a skirt for a girl. This work will be appreciated by those who know that very few of these wo- men are capable of anything but the rudest stitching and the least possible tact. Such a School is needed at every post. MARRIAGES. The forms of marriage certificates and registers have at length been received. The necessity for the former had lead to the printing of one, different from that of the General Superintendent, for temporary use. For want of these, the order in reference to the marriage of those living to- gether, is as yet but partially enforced, and the record imperfect. Respect for the family relation has been quickened, and is keeping pace with the rapid growth of respect for themselves. Husbands and wives, parents and children, separated by long distances, are coming together. The diffi- culties and expense of travel do not prevent soldiers' wives at Helena from visiting their husbands at Fort Smith. Frequent correspondence, which is encouraged and assisted in every way by the Superintendents of Freed- men, is kept up between them. HOME FARMS. At the Home Farms are gathered those out of employment, new comers and vagrants, and those rendered helpless through age or misfor- tune. These are rationed by the Government, and are supposed by many to be a burden and an expense. But notwithstanding all these Homes were put in operation this year, with all implements, draught animals and seeds to be obtained ; and notwithstanding a nearly total failure of the cot- 70 REPORT OP SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, ton crop, which was the chief reliance, those in this State have earned sufficient to pay the Government its outlays, and fair wages to the hands. WHITE AND BLACK REFUGEES COMPAEED. Here, if any where, lies all the expense of Government for the im- mense number of negro laborers within our lines ; but the benefits of this provision are to be measured, not by the success of these farms alone, but by the products of all this labor, which accrues directly or indirectly to our advantage, heightened by the amount lost to the enemy. It may not be improper to suggest to those who declaim against the Government be- ing burdened with negro paupers, that while in this State, the number of colored people within our lines is fully equal to that of the whites, twice as many of the latter draw rations without making any return whatever^ Many of these whites are glad to live and work in partnership with the more thrifty negroes. WOODYAEDS. The woodyards have been a source of considerable income. In the hands of private individuals, the profits of the work of the able-bodied go into the hands of speculators, who furnish no schools to the children, nor assistance to the helpless. Besides provision being made for these, in the hands of the Government, exorbitant rates are prevented and a greater abundance supplied. PINE BLUFF. Of all the Home Farms in the State, that at Pine Bluff is by far the best. The people are better housed, better clad and healthier, than at any other. This is partly due to an early commencement, and to the number of the old quarters on the place; but chiefly to the energy of Capt. Mal- lory, the Post Superintendent, and his sagacity in making choice of Mr. J. J. Williams as Camp Master, and private De Tar, 1st Ind. Cav., as Ac- ting Surgeon, who have proved the right men for their positions. The following report of the sanitary condition of this Home Farm, for six months ending Oct. 31st, 1864, will be of interest : Month. Mean Strength of all Ages and Sexes. Number of Oases Treated. Number of Deaths. May, 870 620 63 June, 850 480 55 July, 760 402 32 August, 700 320 15 Sept., 680 206 6 Oct., 720 102 3 Nov., 786 9 6 No sick last day of November. It must be borne in mind, that a large number of these were not brought to the camp until dangerously sick. Here, as elsewhere, a regular account has been kept between the DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 71 workmen and the Freedmen's Department, and a share of their i)ay has been advanced to them in clothing. RECEUITS FROM HOME FARM. Capt. Mallory has obtained from his camp nearly a thousand recruits for the U. S. service. Gen. Clayton, the Post Commander, fully recog- nizes the advantages of this supervision, and he has rendered all proper assistance to the enforcement of its orders. CAUSES OF LARGE NUMBER. The large number at this Farm will attract attention. Many are continually arriving from the rebel lines. Large numbers were hired un- til the crop was gathered, and have been returned to the Superintendent. It has also been swelled by an order from the Post Commander, directing all in town, without certificate of emplo}Tiient from some white person, to be sent to the Farm. This, however, has, at the request of Superintendent Mallory, been but partially enforced. It must not be supposed that these were not all employed during the cotton season. At Pine Bluff, as else- wh-ere, the demand for labor was greater than the supply. Capt. Mallory had on the Farm itself 800 acres in cultivation ; and but for the army- worm would have realized for the Government as many bales of cotton. SUGGESTS A CHANGE OF BASE. But good policy suggests, that as few as possible of these people be allowed to gather at such distant posts, where the value of the ration is trebled by transportation ; and a sudden evacuation would be accompanied with so much inconvenience and distress. Near the Mississippi their sup- ply would be easier, a change made with less trouble, and their labor be of greater value. LITTLE ROCK. The most of the people at the Home Farm were shipped from Fort Smith in the utmost destitution, and thrown upon the Superintendent without notice. The houses were necessarily built with haste, and are of inferior quality, as well as poorly furnished. Large numbers have been sick, and an undue proportion have died. It is to be hoped that some suitable person will be found without delay, to act as surgeon at this im- portant post. New and better houses are being built upon higher ground, and there is reason to hope that health and comfort will be materially im- proved. DUVALL'S BLUFF. A camp for Freedmen has just been arranged at Du Vall's Bluff, by Lieut. Davis, the Post Superintendent. His services have been a great re- lief to the General Commanding the Post and his subordinates. Out of about 600 negroes, only 61 draw rations. These are principally soldiers' wives and families. They have good houses, and but few are sick. Num- 72 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, bers are just now coming in from the surrounding country, who are desti- tute and in need of charity. Teachers have been engaged, and schools will soon be opened. MOUTH OF WHITE KIVER. There are about two hundred negroes at the mouth of White River, who have been employed in a woodyard, and on a plantation, for a pri- vate individual. The profits of the labor of the strong have been taken without care for the sick and helpless. There are no schools here. They have, for the most part, good houses ; but live in miserable squalor, and are full of complaints of their employer. It is earnestly recommended, that the benefits of this supervision be extended to them, and that a wood- yard be established, which shall be managed more advantageously for them, as well as the Government. HELENA. At the Home Farm at Helena, the people are in fair houses, and liv- ing comfortably. Dr. Palmer, who is acting as surgeon, is an attentive and efficient officer. The hospital, which he had arranged in town, so much to their ben- efit, on the supposed change of the Freedmen into the hands of the Trea- sury, was turned over to the Post Surgeon. It is to be hoped that it wull soon be returned to the use of this Department. HOSPITALS AND ORPHAN ASYLUMS, Hospitals and Orphan Asylums are needed at every Post, either at the " Home Farm" or in town. Something answering for the former is found now at every Home. The best that could be done, under the pre- sent difficulties, in obtaining lumber and cots, has been done ; but the hos- pitals are neither sufficiently large nor comfortably furnished. It is as poor sanitary economy as it is of labor, to scatter the sick among the well. This has often been the only recourse. There is but one Orphan Asylum in the State. It is located at Hele- na. The neatness and order of everj^thing here, in the midst of so many children, and such inconveniences, is as surprising as it is beneficent. These little ones owe a debt of gratitude to ]Mr. and Mrs. Clarke, the self- denying Managers. CHARITIES. Under the guardianship of this Supervision, the Freedmen are far less dependent upon charity than is supposed by the good people of the North. Where their rights are secured, necessaries furnished at reasona- ble prices, and they are directed to employment and sources of gain, there is no doubt of the ability of the great majority to support themselves, and educate their children. The new comers require temporary assistance, and those helpless through age or misfortune are necessarily dependent ; but these, by organization and prudent management, are already self-sup- DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 73 porting. If a fair crop had been obtained this year, not only rations and labor could have been paid for by the Freedmen Department, but the needed hospitals, Orphan asylums, schools and clothing for the indigent, could have been furnished Vtdthout assistance. They are, therefore, in temporary need of help ; and most urgently, in the building and furniture of Hospitals and School Houses. In clothing, when that purchased by the funds of the Freedmen Department shall have reached the different parts of the State, as it has already Helena, it will be found that far more was called for and provided than was actually needed to make all com- fortable. As has been intimated, the greatest charity is protection and guardianship ; and if the Government furnishes this, they will soon rise beyond the need of any. The more efficient, the more temporarily it will be required. The hands, from which the President's Proclamation has re- leased them, are still clutching after them. Though the furj^ of the beast, which has had its appetite sharpened by a taste of blood, and been depri- ved of its prey, be subdued into cajolery and deceit; it still keeps its eye on its victim. A swift and strong arm only can restrain the passions of these diverse races and castes, until unity of interests shall be develop- ed, and respect for the law secured. The struggle for impartial freedom in the South would otherwise be long and violent. Only by this can the freed people be protected from the corruption and lawlessness of the worst of our armies, as well as the rapacity of speculators. A protection merely advisory would be emasculated and powerless. Civil Agents, empowered with military authority, wouid be absurd. In the condition of the South, and in the midst of armies, only Military authority in friendly hands will avail. HOilESTEADS. The development of the wealth of the South, and the self-dependence of the blacks, would be greatly hastened, if the Government were at pains to open to them, and encourage them to take, Homesteads upon the aban- doned plantations. ]Many in the State have this year cultivated for them- selves little patches, and even hundreds of acres. Large numbers have sa- ved enough to buy their mules and plows, and furnish themselves during the coming season. The number of these independent planters could be quadrupled every year. Contrary, however, to the interests of these peo- ple, as well as that of the Government, it would appear that large capital- ists have too much the preference. It should be known, that tens of acres could be rented, as well as hundreds. As it is, the great plantations of the old regime are scarce ever broken. The great weakness of the negro is in his social instincts. This has been aggravated by being herded together in such numbers on these great plantations. They need to be enticed to set themselves apart in families. Separated upon these small farms, they will grow in domestic virtues and self-reliance. Common schools will then be possible at the South. Thus set in their way by encouragement and protection, the ends of all supervis- ion, which must be as speedily as possible to do away with the necessity for any, Avill be effectualh'- accomplished. ; 10 74 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, A ^rODEL NEGRO. That the negro is not wholly without ability to realize this prospect, t here is convincing proof in the life of a full black, at Pine Bluff, well known as " Uncle Reuben." He was born in Georgia, and fell to a master who had but few slaves. He discovered such energy and tact, as well as complete devotion to his master's interests, that the latter entrusted every thing to his management. The slave raised him from poverty to wealth. The master was enabled to buy a large plantation in Arkansas, and stock it with negroes. As his circumstances grew easier, his habits became ex- travagant. His estate became involved ; and when overwhelmed with in- debtedness, he died. The widow, helpless and without resource, called Uncle Reuben, told him that she liad no one to rely upon but him, and placed her all in his hands. He was aroused by this touching conli- tidencc. He became more ambitious than ever to bring the first Bolls of Cotton to town, and to average still more to the acre than the neighboring planters. The number of bales grown on the plantation increased every year out. The children were sent North to school. His success was so remarkable, that the white overseers around became jealous of a negro's outstripping them. They compelled the mistress to place a white nomi- nally over him. He was not, hoAvever, interfered with, until the young masters returned from the North. The fact that a negro slave had educa- ted them, and b}^ his own prudence and energy had amassed for them a fortune of nearly $150,000. was not as grateful to them as true. His mis- tress, however, always treated him as kindly as she dared. On the ap- proach of our armies he remained till all had left but himself and family. Being assured by our officers that the President's Proclamation was true, he also quietly came in. Spirited and proud, he is the most humble of all. He refuses to sit in the presence of whites, and touches his hat to you at every address. LACK OF OFFICEKS. It is but justice to refer to the inadequate number of ofiicers, which Major W. G. Sargent has had to assist him in the supervision of the State. For this reason he has been luiable to extend its benefits to all points as fully as could have been desired, and has been compelled to do the greater part of the duties of the Post Superintendent at Little Rock, as well as those of his own proper office. I liave the honor to be Your obedient servant, L. B. EATON, Lieut. Col. Com'g 69th U. S. C. I. * QUESTIONS TO AGENTS OF BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES, &C. The following are questions proposed to agents of benevo- lent organizations, teachers, and others laboring for the Freed- iren within the territory of this Supervision ; with a synopsis of DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 75 the answers returned by the following gentlemen : — Rev. S. G. Wi'ight, agent of the American Missionary Association, at Natchez; Rev. Joseph Warren, D. D., Chaplain and Assistant in Charge of Freedmen; Rev. James A. Hawley, Chaplain and Superintendent of Colored Schools in the District of Yicksburg, including Natchez ; Mr. J. C. R. Faris, agent ot the Reformed Presbyterian Church, at Natchez ; Rev. Joel Grant, Chaplain ; and Rev. L. H. Cobb, Superintendent of Colored Schools at Memphis. All these gentlemen have given attention to the Freedmen from an educational and moral stand-point. Dr. War- ren has had fifteen years experience among the people of Northern Hindustan ; Mr. Wright nineteen years among the In- dians of our Northwest; and Mr. Grant has been appointed Superintendent of Colored Schools for Arkansas, after having had much experience among the Freedmen since early in 1863. 1. What can you say of the aptitude of the colored people to receive instruction ? All answer : — They receive instruction veiy readily, Mr. Wright : — Used to think them inferior ; but two years' expe- rience convinces me that the}'- are equal to whites with equal advantages. Three answer : — They have great aptness for language, music and the imitative arts. Messrs. Hawley and Warren : — Perhaps they will prove deficient in logic and the mathematics. 2. Compare the mixed and unmixed races in this respect ? Messrs. Hawley and Wright: — The mixed are generally superior; but have had greater advantages. Messrs. Faris and Cobb : — Think the black superior to mixed. Messrs. Grant and Warren : — Can see no difference. 3. Have you been disappointed or otherwise in the results of your endeavors to improve and elevate this people ? Messrs. Hawley, Warren, Cobb and Faris : — No : the results are bet- ter than we had thought slavery had prepared them to exhibit. Mr. Grant: — No : I never believed the pro-slavery argument, that the negro is incapable of intellectual culture. Mr, Wright : — The whole work, so far, is a success. 4. What has been the general condition of the Freedmen as they first come within the Federal lines ? All answer : — Poor, ragged generally ; many diseased and dying ; some shrewd ones come in better condition ; hopeful, but with intelligence much depressed. 76 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, 5. Does your observation show their willingness to labor cheerfully for compensation ? Mr. Hawley : — Generally ; but there are some thriftless. Dr. Warren : — Yes ; average as well as whites. Four answer : — Yes ; with good treatment and fair hope of remune- ration. 6. What improvement, in this respect, do you see ? AU answer, in substance : — Success increases industry and enterprise. Mr. Grant : — Some have been demoralized by faithless employers. Dr. Warren : — Improvement, or the reverse, accords with the treat- ment they receive from employers. 7. What improvement do you observe in their domestic relations ? Four answer : — Freedmen generally delighted with the privilege of forming lawful marriages. Dr. Warren : — No people ever grew in civilization so fast. Mr. Wright : — Parents strongly desire their children to be educated. 8. Will the people, if aided at first, and protected, be able, soon, to take care of themselves ? All answer : — Yes ; if opportunity be afforded. 9. What patriotism and spirit is displayed by them in en- tering the army, and by their conduct in it ? All answer : — Generally very patriotic ; though they need incitement to enter the army. 10. In the present disturbed state of the country, is mili- tary protection essential to their well being? Mr. Hawley : — Essential while the war continues. No other will answer. Messrs. Faris and Wright: — The same. And they must be governed. Mr. Grant : — Indispensable. Mr. Cobb :— Absolutely. Dr. Warren : — Absolutely. Any other a mocker}^ 11. Should the benevolent contributions of the North, in their behalf, be increased ? Mr. Hawley : — Yes. Mr. Cobb : — If rightly directed, the present rates are ample. All others : — Yes, at least until peace. 12. Is the provision through this department, of rations, quarters, &c., for the benevolent engaged in your work of suffi- cient consequence, in your judgment, to justify this outlay of the Government for the mental and moral improvement of this people ? DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 77 Mr. Grant : — Yes ; it has done much good. Mr. Cobb : — Its cost bears no proportion to the good done. Messrs. Wright and Warren : — The results shew it ; yet a Govern- ment officer should judge whether persons enjoying this provision are worthy of it. Mr. Faris : — I think so. Mr. Hawley : — Yes ; but the issue should be with discrimination. In- considerate persons may overtax the Government. Rivalry of societies may have such a tendency. QUESTIONS TO COMMANDING OFFICERS. A series of questions were addressed to General Officers, who have been observant of Freedmen's affairs. They have done me the personal favor, and the country the service, of giving their private opinions in brief. The following synopsis of answers is presented. Their differences in reference to some details only give more strength to their points of agreement; on which their witness is conclusive. These Officers have had all of us — Superintendents, Provost Marshals, Planters, Teachers, Inspec- tors and Freedmen, under view, and their opinions close the testimony gathered. 1. Do you consider the emancipation of the slaves a help to military operations ? Maj. Gen. Dana, Commanding the Department of the Mississippi : — "I consider the emancipation of the slaves as a decided help to ultimate military success, and a necessity to and of military operations." Brig. Gen. Brayman, Commanding U. S. Forces at Natchez : — "It furnishes us with soldiers inured to the climate and to labor, and at the same times dries up the enemy's source of suppl}^, and transfers to our Service those who would otherwise be used against us." Brig. Gen. Andrews, Commanding U. S. Forces at Du Vall's Bluff : — Agrees with the above, and adds — "I do not hesitate to say, that what I have seen of slaverj^ and freedom, 'as regards the colored race, since the war commenced, has made me an abolitionist — and this exclusive of con- sidering them as a help in the war. I am of the opinion that their eman- cipation has been a blessing to them." "Brig. Gen. Hawkins, Commanding a Division of Colored Troops at Vicksburg : — "The emancipation of slaves is a great help to military ope- rations, in bringing to our side a male able to bear arms, and anxious to fight with us for the security of their freedom. On the other hand, eman- cipation is an injury to us, as it prevents supplies being raised in the rebel country, on which our army might subsist while making marches or ex- peditions. * * * Only the strong and able-bodied should be allowed to follow our troops when marching in the rebel country. * 78 REPORT OP SUPERINTENDENT OP FREEDMEN, * * The produce raised by the others staying at home would do us more service that it would do the rebels." [The common opinion is, that the able-bodied would not generally follow us unless their families were also allowed to do so.] Brig. Gen. Chetlain, Commanding Colored Troops of Tennessee, through Maj. Paddock, his Inspector General, an observant and accom- plished officer : — "Upon the whole I consider the emancipation of the blacks, and their consequent employment in the army, a great help to the service and the military operations of the Government." 2. While the present disturbed condition of our country remains, do you believe that the negroes can receive protection and justice through any other than military organizations and instrumentalities ? Maj. Gen. Dana : — "I believe that while Freedmen not in the army are allowed to remain at military posts or within the lines of the army, they can only receive protection and justice through military instrumen- talities, directly or indirectly." Brig. Gen. Brayman : — "As the sections where the negroes are found are in insurrection and under military law, no other than military agen- cies can by employed in behalf of the negro." Brig. Gen. Andrews : — "I think Freedmen at present should be un- der the military authority." Brig. Gen. Hawkins : — "I do not consider a military organization necessary for their care. Of course all matters must be under military control as long as the war lasts or martial law prevails." Brig. Gen. Chetlain : — "If in special localities it be deemed proper to collect them together, and extend over them the care and guardianship of the public authorities, I should say that, at present, a military system w^ould more nearly answer the purpose than would any civil agency. I cannot hope for much more than partial protection and justice in favored portions of the country until the restoration of civil authority has opened the way for a legislative provision of remedies against violence and fraud." 3. To what extent would you, for the present, seek to with, draw the blacks from their pursuits of private industry — agricul- tural, mechanical, etc., for the purpose ot their enlistment or employment in the army ? Maj. Gen. Dana: — "I hold that every Freedman fit for military dut}^ should be placed in the ranks." Brig. Gen. Brayman : — "The black people should be withdrawn as little as possible from their accustomed pursuits — a fair proportion only, as in the case of white troops, brought into the army." Brig. Gen. Andrews : — "I am decidedly in favor of conscripting col- ored men into the service. Then, if they are treated as soldiers should be DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 79 treated, and not made to do more than their share of fatigue duty, they will be well contented." Brig. Gen. Hawkins : — "All able bodied men who can pass a surgical examination, should be received into the army by voluntary enlistment. Pressing them into service is a violation of their rights as fi'eemen." Brig. Gen. Chetlain : — " I should proceed with the recruitment of blacks as rapidly and as extensively as compatible with the number of able- bodied men to be had, and their proper organization for war ; and this without regarding the numbers left behind for the industrial pursuits na- med." 4. How can the freedinen best serve the country and their race ? Maj. Gen. Dana: — "For the present by military service." Brig. Gen. Bray man : — " By having a country given them ; being al- lowed to aid in savmg it ; and by being educated to habits of self-reliance, industry and virtue. Take the lands of rebel masters, who own them without earning them, and give them to loyal slaves, whose labor has made them valuable." Brig. Gen. Andrews : — Agrees with above. Brig. Gen. Hawkins : — By enlisting in the army. The country is benefitted, and they are educated in manliness and self-respect." Brig. Gen. Chetlain: — "The freedman at present best serves his coun- try by becoming a Union soldier. * * * There should be the estab- lishment of the ordinance of Christian Marriage ; and stringent jjunish- ment for adultery. The freedman should acquire property, and take a family name ; and, as a reward for military service, he should have land enough for a homestead." 5. Please state any facts, or make any suggestions bearing upon the military value of this race, or any methods by which it may be made more available. Maj. Gen. Dana: — "The whole record of military service in this war by the freedman shows their adaptibility to, and great value in, the military service. The only change I can suggest in the present system of recruiting for colored troops is, that every freedman capable of military service be declared a soldier, and put in the ranks." Brig. Gen. Brayman : — As long as rebels choose to fight for the de- struction of the Government, I would train their own slaves to fight them. After that I would make industrious citizens of them. I would have all, black and white, prepared in peace for soldiers in war, should it come again." Brig. Gen. Andrews : — " I have had one regiment of colored troops in my command for several months, and it is a most excellent regiment." Brig. Gen. Hawkins : — Colored men make good infantry ; and for cavalry I think they would make the best in the^world ; and when practi- cable they should be organized as cavalry." Brig. Gen. Chetlain : — " In my opinion the amount of labor demand- ed of colored troops of this command has materially retarded instruction, 80 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, and to some extent affected the state of discipline. * * * The pro- cesses now in employ for the examination of officers, and the dismissal of the incompetent, should be kept up until the service is rid of that class. * * * These troops should have a separate organization and adminis- tration, at least as high as Brigades and Divisions ; and they should be em- ployed as cavalry to a greater extent. They ride well, are acquainted with and not averse to the care of horses, and are perfectly familiar with the country." 6. Is the care of this people a necessity both to themselves and the government ? — and what is the importance of relieving department and post commanders of the burden of caring for them, or of entrusting this work to some sound and effective or- ganization that shall meet this necessity ? Maj. Gen. Dana: — "It is of great importance that commanding offi- cers be relieved of the care and responsibility of a non-military burden, and the government of their support, as early as possible. Whenever these people are concentrated in camps for care and support, they should be at points where the soil is easy of cultivation, and the position defensible ; they should be under military protection, and consequently under milita- ry control ; all classes of sharpers and traders should be kept away from them. The benevolent of the North should seek means to place them through the country where they would be enabled to earn a livelihood for themselves, relieve the present wants of labor on farms, and afford fam- ilies the now much needed house servants. It appears to me also that the Northern factories could advantageously employ great numbers of the women and children." Brig. Gen. Brayman : — " In transferring an untaught people from the care of their owners to our's, we become responsible for all the education , care, honest employment and protection we can give them ; considering their rebel masters responsible for the sufferings incident to their transition from ignorance, helplessness and slavery, to that improved condition of which, in a state of freedom, this race may be capable. It being the busi- ness of Department and Post Commanders to conduct military operations, not to found colonies, nor to engage in utilitarian enterprizes ; the inter- ests of the Freedmen should be in charge of other organizations — all, how- ever, being subordinated to the great purpose of our present military con- dition — that of suppressing the rebellion, and restoring to the Go vernmen t its just supremacy." Brig. Gen. Hawkins : — " All people need care, and the observance of justice towards them. The chief need is to furnish them with labor, and to do as little as possible for them in the way of charity." Brig. Gen. Chetlain : — " At all events, I should deem it highlj^ impor- tant that Post and Department Commanders be relieved of the burden spoken of EDUCATIONAL AND MORAL EFFORTS. I am indebted to Chaplain Warren for the following presen- DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 81 tation of educational facts, and considerations touching Schools of Letters and Industry, Marriage, and Orphan Asylums : SCHOOLS. The officers of the Freedmen's Department would have dis«< charged their trust very imperfectly, had they not felt that the mental and moral enlightenment of the people committed to their charge was a great object to be secured. Employment and Protection were necessities preceding Instruction in order only — not in importance. EARLY EFFORTS. Accordingly, from the very first, efforts were made to se- cure the assistance of Army Chaplains, and such other men as were likely to feel the necessity of attention to this matter ; and the labors of benevolent persons, which were soon offered, to aid in instructing the freed people, were welcomed and encouraged. Teachers and Missionaries from the American Missionary Asso- ciation, the Western Freedmen's Aid Commission, and the So- ciety of Friends were the first in the field. After the surrender of Vicksburg and the occupation of Natchez, a laro;e number of these voluntarv laT)orers came to aid in this work. Beside the Societies already named, the Board of Missions of the United Presbyterian Church, the Reformed . Presbyterians, the United Brethren in Christ, the Xorth Wes- tern Freedmen's Aid Commission, and the National Freedmen's Relief Association, sent many persons ; and beside these were occasional laborers from other bodies. RATIOXS, ETC., ORDERED. The Government ordered that all persons, duly accredited, who should come into the field for this purpose, should be tur- nished \\ith transportation, quarters, rations and places in which to teach, so far as practicable. The Freedmen's Department was, of course, brought immediately into connection with these par- ties. It was soon arrano-ed that thev should draw their rations with the approval of the resident officers of the Department. Yet the connection of this Department with such teachers was very loose. No orders were given to the Superintendent of Freedmen by means of which he could do more than advise in regard to the location and distribution of teachers. No author- 11 82 REPORT OP SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, ity was given to superintend their schools, to secure uniformity of school-books, or to regulate in any manner the conduct of teachers and agents. POWER AND MEANS INADEQUATE. « In these circumstances the officers of the Department did what they could to aid the work. They had no funds to provide school-houses where these were lacking ; and many of the mis- sionaries and teachers were obliged to live and teach in places entirely inconvenient and inadequate. Our efforts could be only partly efficient. Complaints were sometimes uttered, the injus- tice of which only they can know, who take properly into con- sideration our circumstances and the limitations of our power. In this Report it is impossible to give a detailed statement of the labor performed by each body of teachers. Only a gen- eral notion of what was accomplished can be conveyed. In the cities, excepting Memphis, there were, last year, a sufficient numbers of teachers. The attendance of scholars upon the schools was good — almost all, of proper age, being in a school the greater part of the time. Some teachers had elementary books furnished by their societies ; some had old books, which were sent down from the North in great variety — so that a school would be furnished with books, and yet not so that even a small class could have the same kind ; the Tract Societies and Denom- inational Boards gave many books. The schools were almost universally without any desks, had no proper seats, and no suffi- cient rooms. And yet under all these disadvantages, thousands learned to read, and began to proceed beyond this. In the Freedmen's camps the same state of things was found, with quarters and school accommodations worse. Many of the teachers submitted to privations and hardships, on account of which they are entitled to the gratitude of those whom they came to hel]), and the admh-ation of all who have any perception of the dignity of self-denial in laboring for the poor. In some of the camps and farms it was found impossible to maintain schools regularly ; and in one or two no accommodations at all could be found. It was intended that schools and teachers should be main- tained on the leased plantations ; but experience has proved that men who entered upon cotton cultivation, with the intention of making a great fortune in a single year, were not to be expected DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 83 voluntarily to meet our intentions in this respect. With two or three exceptions they made no effort to secure instruction for the people whom they employed. On most of the places it w^as entirely impracticable for teachers to reside, because they were unsafe for any one. If any system of leasing and cultivating abandoned plantations be adopted in future, some arrangement ought to be made to compel attention to this subject. But Uttle preparation ol the Freed People, exhibiting respectability of character or fitness for the business of life, can be secured on plantations managed as most of them have been for the year now closing. Much work has also been done hi the Colored Kesiments. by teachers from the North, and by their Chaplains. This De- partment has had less to do with this branch of the general work than with any other; yet it has been our desire to promote and encourage it. We have aided to secure teachers lor Regiments, and have sought to exercise all tiie influence that could properly be exerted in affairs totally in the power, and at the responsibil- ity, of others. EXTENT OF INSTRUCTIOX. AVe have no means of saying precisely how many pupils have been under instruction within the Department. Some, but not nearly all, of the teachers have kept tolerably accurate accounts of the number enrolled, and of the average daily attendance. In most cases the teachers could not be blamed for neglect in this matter. Their rooms were often small and crowded ; or they w^ere large, with two or more schools in one room ; the population was migratory and changeable; the children were irregular in attendance ; the great variety of books made classi- fication often impossible. But little as w^e know about the exact number w^ho have been under instruction, and as to how many of them have learned to read ; we need not hesitate to say, that thousands have been so far taught that they can read the simpler school-books, and hundreds are able to read well. Many learned to write, and many began the study of arit^mietic and geoo-ra- phy. The seeds of knowledge have been sown. The extraordi- nary eagerness of the people for instruction has been encouraged. They are not now human brutes, whom it would be safe to re- enslave. Irregular, cramped, partial, rudimentary, as their edu- cation has been, it has unfitted them for being chattels. They 84 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, who have not been taught at all — who may never be taught let- ters, have at least learned that they are men and women, and that the great heart of their country at length allows their right to be taught, and to rise up to a plane where they may put forth efforts for their own good. NECESSITY OF AUTHOEITATIVE SUPERVISION. The preceding statement will show that something more of system and supervision was necessary. Useful as the schools have been, they might have been more so, had it been possible to arrange and locate them in the best manner. Had the numer- ous benevolent societies operating in this field been able to com- bine their efforts under one Superintendent, a satisfactory arrangement might have been made ; but this was found to be impracticable. At the same time it was fully proved, by experi- men, that nder a proper system the tuition fees that the colored people were able and willing to pay, together with the aid of the benevolent at the North, vrould secure education to all the peo- ple. As indicative of what judicious persons, not in the Govern- ment service, thought on this subject, and pointing out some of the evils to be prevented by supervision, the following extracts are taken from a report by Rev. I. J. Hoile, a Baptist Missionary, employed among the colored people at Memphis since Septem- ber, 1863. " At the end of six months, three schools were successfully operating under my direction, having an average attendance of 570 scholars. Al- though all needy applicants were admitted free, not more than twenty in the three schools were non-paying." " Since the first of March, other schools have been opened in the citj^ by individuals and societies, upon the same principle ; all of which, I be- lieve, have been sufiiciently successful to establish the fact that under a proper and uniform system, the educational necessities of the whole co- lored population of the city could be provided for without expense to the Government. " While, however, it is evident that this people are able and willing to support these schools for themselves, it is equally evident that they are not yet competent to conduct them. Consequently they must be conduc- ted by individuals, or societies, interested in their welfare, either under, or independent of Government control. Thus far the latter experiment (in- dependence of Government control) has been upon trial. I think it has had a fair trial ; and having had more to do with the schools, and greater responsibility in connection with them, than any other individual, 1 most respectfully submit it, as my full and decided conviction, that it does not work well, either for the conscientious laborer, or for the people : the for- DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 85 mer being unshielded from suspicion's evil eye and the maligner's tongue ; while the latter are constantly liable to be imposed upon by unqualified teachers, or defrauded by those whose intellectual fitness is more than counterbalanced by the dishonest or mercenary motives which govern their action. Among this people themselves, also, there are a few^ who have a little knowledge, against whose greed of gain and love of rule they need to be protected. " It follows, therefore, that the educational interests of this long op- pressed people should be as much under the vigilant guardianship of the Government as any others ; and, consequent!}^, that schools and teachers should not merely be protected by, but subjected to, such official author- ity and direction as would render more efficient the labors of the one class, and the more certainly ensure ihe good of the other. The necessity of placing these schools under official supervision became apparent to me almost as soon as I entered upon the work of my mission ; and, as 1 have pursued that work, evidence has so accumulated, that I have frequently consulted with others on the subject, and have found that their observa- tions and conclusions almost invariably agreed with my own. * * * After mature deliberation I have come to the conclusion, that the in- terests of these schools should be committed to the Department over which you have the superintendence. To the Freedmcn's Department they seem more properly to belong. I take the liberty, therefore, very respectfully to suggest the propriety of your presenting this matter for the consideration of Adjutant General Thomas. "It is easy, I think, to hit upon a plan, by which the existing schools may be brought under one general system ; new ones properly located 5 and all concerned held to such accountability to the Department as would prevent or cure abuses, without any undue restraint upon the labors of individuals or societies. The objects to be aimed at are — "1st. The securing of better order, and more thorough co-operation, by S3'stematizing the whole work. "2d. The employment of none but properly qualified and accredited teachers. "3d. The fixing of such a degree of responsibility upon each and all employed as shall protect the people from imposition and abuse." Before the report, from which the above extracts are ta- ken, was received, it had become fully evident that such super- vision was necessary ; and Maj. Gen. Washburne, then comman- ding at Memphis, had taken some steps to inaugurate it within liis command. At this juncture the following order of the Secre- tary of War was issued by Adj. General Thomas ; — Cincinnati, Ohio, Sept. 26, 1864. Orders No. 26. [Extract.] II. To prevent confusion and embarrassment, the General Superinten- dent of Freedmen will designate officers, subject to his orders, as Superin- tendents of Colored Schools, through whom he will arrange the location of all schools, teachers, the occupation of houses, and other details per- 86 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, taining to the edueation of Freedmen. All officers commanding, and others, will render the necessary aid. By Order op the Secretary of War: L. THOMAS, Adjutant General. In carrying out this order, Rev. L. H. Cobb has been ap- pointed Superintendent of Colored Schools in the District of Memphis ; Rev. James A. Havvley, Chaplain 63d U. S. Colored Infantry, in the District of Vicksburg, assisted by Rev. Mr. Buck- ley, Chaplain 4'7th Colored In/antry, at Vicksburg, and Mr. C. S. Crossman at Natchez ; Rev. Joel Grant, Chaplain 1 2th Il- linois Infantry, in the District of Arkansas ; Mr. W. F. Allen, at Helena ; and Mr. J. L. Roberts, at Columbus, Ky. Instructions have been framed for the guidance of Superin- tendents. They provide for the location and opening of schools sufficient for the people ; tor the payment of tuition fees fr®m 25 cents to $1,25 a month for each scholar, according to the abil- ity of the parents ; for admission entirely free to all who cannot pay, and clothing to be furnished, by the aid of the Industrial Schools, to those who need it ; for the occupation of houses and school-rooms; for necessary apparatus and incidentals; for the government of teachers in connection with the societies that send them ; for the prevention of all fraud and extortion ; and for the payment, pro rata^ of all the money remaining, after meeting in- cidental expenses, to the teachers, — thus aiding the benevolent societies to support their agents. The hope and probability is, that after a little time, when the system becomes fully establish- ed, and the heavy preliminary expenditure has been met, the in- come will be sufficient to pay all the wages of the teachers. EARLY EEPOKTS. PROSPECTS. Reports concerning the beginning of the application of this system have come in from some of the superintendents. The other officers of the Department watch and assist it. So far as known, the agents and superintendents of the benevolent soci- eties approve of the scheme, and will work with us cordially. There is no reason to doubt that great advantages to the colored people will result from it. Educatioa — j)lain, simple, j^ractical and christian, is the great want of this people ; that education it is the undoubted duty of the country to aftbrd, and she cannot afford not to give it. It is believed that the efforts and scheme DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 87 detailed above will secure this end to the highest degree allowed by present circumstances. INDUSTRIAL SCHOOLS. To meet the urgent want of dependent fus^itives from sla- very, and of the sick and infirm, the Secretary of War issued or- ders that cast-off soldiers' clothing should be given for their use by the Medical Department, as it accumulated at hospitals. Large quantities of second-hand clothing were also collected at the North, and sent down in charge of the various missions en- gaged in educational and other benevolent efforts. New goods, to be made up into garments, more especially for women and children, have been forwarded by the same parties ; and donations from the funds of the Freedmen's Department have added to this sup- To adapt these goods to economical use a great deal of work has been found necessary. For the purpose of performing this work ; and to teach thf colored women to labor effectively for their families ; industrial schools have been set up. The teach- ers and ascents of benevolent societies have done much in this direction. The Department officers encourage these efforts. Latterly Lt. R. D. Bird has been placed in charge of three such schools at Memphis ; and, as far as it may be necessary or useful to do so, the supervision of such schools will be assumed by us. Where any benevolent work carries on this work efficiently, fur- ther interference than mere general oversight will not be neces- sary. ORPHAN ASYLUMS. The mortality attendant upon the flight of thousands from slavery ; the hardships and exposure to which the colored people were at one time subject ; and the death of soldiers in the army ; have caused many oi-phans to be left among this people in camps for the dependent and in the cities. It has long been evident that some special provision for their care was necessary. The subject has been very much debated among the officers of the Freedmen's Department ; and a full plan of an institution was prepared, and, with the approbation of the General Superinten- dent, presented to several benevolent societies, by Chaplain War- ren. It was found, however, that no single society thought it- self able to undertake the support of a large institution ; and a 88 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, combination of different bodies for this purpose proved equally impracticable. But it is still true, that a large and central insti- tution is desirable, to gather all needy colored orphans, and take the place of the several insufficient asylums mentioned below. We do not undervalue the efforts that have been made. They will do good, as far as they go ; but they are not commensurate with the necessities of the Department. The first attempt to provide for orphans, in an asylum, must be credited to "Aunt Maria," a colored woman, on President's Island near Memphis. She collected a considerable number of orphans, in connection with the Freedmen's Camp, and still has the care of them, aided by the supervision of Miss Mitchell, one of the earliest to hasten to the aid of the destitute people flying from slavery. The next effort was made at Helena — commenced by Major Sargent, aided by Gen. N. B. Buford and his excellent lady. Elkanah Beard procured teachers for this institution from the So- ciety of Friends. This place will accommodate about sixty or-, phans ; and at present is nearly full, and in good condition. Another institution has been commenced at Memphis, by Mrs. Canfield. This lady's husband, Lt. Col. Canfield, was kill- ed at Shiloh ; and since that loss she has devoted herself to works of benevolence. Her house will accommodate about fifty chil- dren. Another asylum has been opened at Natchez, under the pa- tronage of the Northwestern Freedmen's Aid Commission. No definite report of its condition has reached this oflice. An undertaking of the same kind is proposed at Vicksburg, of which it is now too soon to say any thing. MAEEIAGE. Among the things to be done, to fit the freed people for a life of happiness and usefulness, it was obvious that the inculcation of right principles and practices in regard to the social relations ought to find a place. The General Superintendent, before the period embraced in this report, had directed the attention of al 1 his Assistants to this subject. The Chaplains assisting him had acted without special instructions, and a great number of couples were married, at the different camps, by Rev. Messrs. Grant, Alexander and Fisk. For the purpose of showing what was at- tempted, and the necessity for it, the following extracts are here DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 89 inserted from a Report, made by Chaplain Warren, dated May 18th, 1864:— STATE UNDER THE OLD SYSTEM. "All are aware of the fact, that there was no such thing as lawful matrimony among the slaves under the former system ; but many do not know the sad consequences of this fact. An impression has prevailed ex- tensively, that proper marriages were generally encouraged by slave own- ers among their people ; and that great regard was paid to these connec- tions in buying and selling servants. That these statements are not true we have abundant reason to assert. The following are aaswers to an in- terrogatory sent to the Post Superintendents in 1863. The question is— "What of their (the colored people's) marital notions and practices ?" One answers — 'All wrong.' Another — 'Their ideas of the marriage rela- tions and obligations are very low.' A third — 'Most of them have no idea of the sacredness of the marriage tie, declaring that marriage, as it exists among the whites, has been impossible for them.' Another says — 'They know what marriage is among the whites, but have yielded to the sad ne- nessity of their case.' Still another Superintendent says — 'They have had no opportunity for correct notions and practices.' Another — 'Loose — and from example.' "To all this we, who have been still more conversant with these peo- ple, may add any amount of testimony. We have found women who, bear indelible marks of the lash, inflicted to force them into unions hate- ful to them ; or to break them off from attachments in which they wished to live virtuously, and make them 'take up with' others ; or to force them to submit to the lust of master or overseer. Yet the freed people are in no way unfit to sustain the marriage relation properly. One of the Super- intendents referred to above says — 'In other cases the marriage relation exists in all its sacredness without legal sanction.' And another remarks — 'Free, and married, they will maintain the marriage relation as sacredly as any other race.' In the more permanent camps the Superintendents unitedly declare, that the introduction of the rite of christian marriage and requiring its strict observance, exerted a most wholesome influence upon the order of the camps and the conduct of the people." NEW ARRANGEMENTS. But it was found that system was necessary. In the entire absence of civil law, recom-se to military authority was impera* live. Accordingly, the General Superintendent represented this matter to Gen. Thomas, who issued the following order, as the initial step of a general scheme: — Special Orders, No. 15 — Extract— dated Xatchez, Miss., March 28, 1864 — "III. Any ordained Minister of the Gospel, accredited by the Gene- 12 90 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, ral Superintendent of Freedmen, is hereby authorized to solemnize the rite of marriage among Freedmen. By order of the Secretary of War : L. THOMAS, Adjutant General." In pursuance of the great object thus suggested, the Gen- eral Superintendent caused to be prepared — 1st. A form of Marriage certificate, which refers to the above order as the secu- lar authority for such marriages. 2nd. A return to be made to the Post Superintendents ; and 3rd, a License to Ministers of the Gospel, to marry according to the above order, accompanied with appropriate instructions. These instructions were distributed to Chaplains and Mis sionaries early in April, 1 864. There being two Chaplains con- nected with the chief ofiice of the Department, then at Vicks- burg, more attention was paid to this interest there than at other posts ; and the data, on which the following remarks are founded^ are chiefly derived from that post. It must not be understood however, that no progress has been made at other posts. Books for the registration of marriages were sent early to all the chief post in the Department ; and such attention has been given to this subject as circumstances allowed. KETUENS AND REGISTERS. The Return, which a minister is required to make of each marriage solemnized hy him, contams the ages of tlie parties ; the admixture of blood in themselves and in each of their pa- rents ; the length of time each may have lived with another per- son as husband or wife, with the causes of their separation ; and the number of children each may have had by former connection, or which they together may already have had. Thus it will be seen that the returns will afford most interesting statistics. Re- ference will be made to these hereafter. The Registers, made up from these Returns, also afford the means of ideutifying parties, as far as is possible. This is most important, especially in view of questions of inheritance that may hereafter arise, and of claims on the Government by the families of deceased colored soldiers. The means of proving a true re- lationship, and of checking fraud, may here be found. The books, substantially made up for this purpose, have been carefully kept, and will be easily preserved. At first far the greater k number of those married were couples seekmg to legalize unions already formed, some of which DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 91 had existed a long time ; and sometimes most touching is the deep satisfaction with Avith they hear the announcement — " There- fore, in accordance with the ordinance of God, and by the au- thority of the United States, I pronounce you husband and wife : and whom God hath joined together, let not man put asunder." Latterly a greater proportion are new contracts. The statistics to be gathered from the Marriage Registers, from the best answers that can be found to most of the pleas of- fered in justification of slavery ; the substance of which is, that entire subjection to the will of the master, with protection and support, is the best situation in which to secure the happiness and develope the virtues of the colored people. But there are two aspects of slavery, which these statistics reveal, and which exhibit its character so far in indelible tints. The first of these is, its inhumanity in rupturing the social relations. VIOLENT RUPTURES OF SOCIAL RELATIONS. If we are to believe the advocates of the system, the slaves generally passed their time in extreme contentment and happi- ness, enjoying a high degree of domestic felicity. They confess that occasionally a forcible separation of husband and wife may have occurred ; but they represent such things as extremely rare, and would have us believe that white people guilty of such vio- lence were deemed infamous. But our Registers tell a different tale. To take that of Vicksburg only, as an example— we find returns of fifteen hundred marriages in that District up to Nov» 30, 1864. Of these three thousand persons, five hundred and sixty-seven had been forcibly and hopelessly separated from hus- bands and wives by the direct operation of the system of slavery : some for the personal convenience of master or overseer ; some because the master would have all his people mated on his own plantation, or not at all: but most of them by sale or removal. Thus more than one-sixth of the people whom we have recorded as mari'ied have suffered the disruption of domestic ties. And this average may fairly be raised higher, if we count the actual number of such separations, instead of merely the number of persons so separated — many having suffered this wrong more than once. To this amount of outrage is to be added the violent separation of children and parents, which occurs still more fre- quently. Parties have always been asked if they had children during these former connections ; and they have often answered 92 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, that they had left behind, on being sold away, one, two, six, a dozen, and even twenty ; and it has oftener appeared that chil- dren have been sold, and parents left behind. Many of these se- parations were of mere infants from their mothers. Another fact revealed by these inquiries, is the astounding mortality among colored children in slavery. We have often been told of the birth and death of many — the deaths frequent- ly amounting to five-sixths of those born. Were it not that it is a race of marvellous health and fecundity, slavery would soon have abolished itself, without importation, in the South-West, by destroying the people. We ought also to remember the continual fear of such dis- ruption of family ties, in which all slaves constantly lived, especi- ally in the Northern slave States. But many have said, " They do not feel these things as we would." This is utterly false. They are a race of peculiarly keen feelings and domestic tenden- cies ; and they have had fewer means of withdrawing their minds from their griefs than we have. But they rarely got pity in their sorrows : if they were downcast, they were often whipped for " sulking." To this is still to be added, that the insecurity of their do- mestic relations necessarily produced fickleness among them- selves. It seemed bad policy to love, when the most sacred feel- ings might any day be miserably outraged, and the dearest con- nections ruthlessly sundered. So temporary connections, un- sanctified by any feeling of the heart, came into vogue, A rov- ing fancy was indulged. Corruption, proceeding to incest, pre- vailed, A planter told one of my assistants, that he believed that every man among the three hundred people on his estate had, at some time or other, had every woman on it. There is evidence to prove conclusively, that on many plantations black men were countenanced and encouraged in practices abhored even by heathen morality — to improve the breed of human cat- tle. We are shamed, as to our country and our common human- ity, by having such things to say and hear. But it is time that the whole truth, that " slavery is the sum of all villainies," should stand out before a disgusted world. A SPECIMEN. As illustrative of this subject, it may be stated, that Major Sargent, in an Appendix to a Report on his District in Arkansas, DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 93 gives extracts from the order book of a Mr, Cockrell, a planter in that State, now a Confederate " Commissioner for the Seques- tration of the Estates of Ahen Enemies." The book contains in- structions to his Overseer, and was found in his house, which he had abandoned on the approach of our forces. One extract is as follows : — " The plantation is to produce 400 bales of cotton, 40,000 lbs. of pork, 50 stacks oats, 75 stacks fodder, 8 stacks millet. Ten Negro Children^ He then arranges for producing the children by ordering the pairing of " Henry and Susan, Cam. bridge and Matilda, Sandy and Yellow Kitty," &c. A REVELATION. Still further to illustrate the miserable corruption to which slavery exposed its victims, (and, for that matter, the oppressors too,) — there was a colored woman at Davis' Bend, when our for- ces took possession of that place, — afterward sent to Cincinnati — who can be proved, by the testimony of hundreds, to have been the kept mistress of Jeff. Davis ; and she is universally reputed to be the daughter of Joe Davis, the rebel insurgent leader's bro- ther. We know^, also, of at least six persons, the offspring of white Southern women by colored men. One of these children of white women, after narrowly escaping death by drowning at the hands of his maternal uncles, is now a Presiding Elder in the Methodist Church. Another was once sold into slavery by his mother, for a " tiitch of bacon." MISCEGENATION BY WHOM. The second aspect of slavery, illustrated by these statistics, is its immorality. It may not be thought necessary to add any- thing to the statements immediately preceding this paragraph ; but the following matter is important. Of these same three thousand people, whose marriages are recorded at Vicksburg, one thousand and filty have been found to have white blood in their composition. There may have been more ; for many are put down as black when there were suspicions of white admix- ture, which they denied ; — for it is to be noticed, that they are already beginning to be ashamed of mixture, which was formerly a matter of pride. Here were more than one-third mixed — many almost white, a few entirely so. We have been told that slavery is a civilizing institution highly moral in its effect among the slaves, and productive of the 94 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, extreniest type of christian civilization among the whites. It has also been a favorite sneer, directed at all advocates of emancipation, that abolition was amalgamation. The preceding paragraph is a suf- ficient answer to all these things. Moreover, in the course of their official action during the past year, my assistants have be- come cognizant of four marriages of southern white men to col- ored women. One of them was formerly a negro trader. His quadi'oon slave and mistress would not live with him without marriage, because, as she said, she had now become free, and it was no longer right to submit to that, to which she had been helplessly subjected in slavery. A Chaplain, altogether unwil- ling to assist at mixed marriages, was induced to perform the ceremony in this instance, by the man's saying that he had "mar- ried her in the sight of God five years ago !" MORAL PROGRESS. It was to teach and reform a people inured to these things, that the institution of lawful maariage was directed. And it has wrought grand and beneficent efi"ects. No people, within the whole compass of history, have ever exhibited more rapid pro- gress of a civilizing idea. It is not pretended that all the mar- riages that have taken place were well advised, or will be happy, or laithfully observed. When marriages among whites shall all prove so, without exception, it will be time to look for such a happy state of things among the blacks. But progress — great and enceuraging — has been made ; and this is all that could have been expected. THE MEDICAL DEPARTMENT. Surgeon D. O. McCord, who had had much experience among the freed people, aud whose good service I here gratefully acknowledge, was announced, in Orders 114 of the Secretary of War, issued by Adjutant General Thomas, as Medical Director of Freedmen for the Department of the Tennessee and State of Arkansas, Dec. 1, 1863. Medical attendance and supplies for the people were under his control; and, according to orders, no one could practice among them without his approval. Accord- ing to his Report, made June 28th, 1864, he found, on entering upon his duties, only "Eight surgeons employed with these people. Most of tbem were incompfetent, and relieved from duty for that reason. Now we have thirty- DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 95 two, all educated men, who take an interest in the work. Then we had but one hospital worthy of the name ; now we have one in eveiy camp, or within reach of it. Wherever the Government has colored laborers, we send surgeons, hospital and medical stores." This favorable advance, in the medical affairs of the freed people, was hardly secured before the Surgeon General found the medical appropriations of Congress falling short of the necessi- ties of the army in its active operations ; and the Secretary of War accordingly ordered — "Xo issue will be made, or bills paid, by the Medical Department, on account of Freedmen not in the United States service." Soon after, under the clause of a law enacted in July, Reg- ulations were provided for the transfer of Freedmen's affairs to the Treasury Department. A brief statement from me to tlie Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, Hon. Mr. Harrington, in the absence of Hon. Secretary Fessenden, of tlie facts which parties moving in the matter seem- ed to ignore, — that the dependent, whom we had hoped w^ould be provided for by the Plantation Agents, had been thrown upon military support ; and that there were no other instrumentalities for their care ; — cut off, they must perish ; that my Assistants had been compelled, as stated before, to extend Government aid to numerous Freedmen endeavoring to help themselves; and consequently had open contracts, which could not be settled till the close of the season ; Mr. Harrington, taking a common-sense view of the confusion and harm sure to occur from a transfer so unprovided for, immediately suspended the proposed Regulations of the Treasury ; and, after the return of the Hon. Secretary, Mr. Fessenden, and consultation with him, addressed to me the following note : — "Treasury Department, August 23, 1864. "Sir: — The suspension of the Regulations, whereby this Department contemplated taking immediate control of the Freedmen, has been ap- proved by the Secretary. "In directing such suspension, it was the expectation and desire of the Department, tliat the sj^stemand arrangements heretofore inaugurated, and now being prosecuted under you, should be continued without inter- ruption until the crops now in are gathered, and the present season closed ; and until this Department is prepared in all respects to assume such con- trol under the law. "Respectfully, GEO. HARRINGTON, Assistant Secretary of the Treasury. "Col. John Eaton, Jr., Washington." 96 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN, The above statements close out the general reports from my officers. Their accounts with the several funds will be settled as soon as the crops are gathered and sold. The mass of facts clearly illustrates the great principles to which the two distinctive elements of ojovernment are assigned — the Treasury, to the collection of revenues and the disbursement of funds ; the War Office, to the prosecution of military opera- tions, and the execution of the functions of government in the en- forcement of justice, whilst civil authority is in abeyance. These facts show that any confounding of the functions of the Depart- ments must create confusion, and fail of good. In respect to the Freedmen as a whole, it is plain that the Treasury should con- trol the funds, as for all other operations ; and the War Depart- ment, having the only efficient instrumentalities, provide for the dependent, and execute justice among and toward the Freedmen, as to all others in the regions under army sway. Had the War Office cut off Commissary and Quartermaster supplies, as it was compelled to stoj* medicines, the suffering and injury would have been indescribable and irremediable. As it was, my officers having hospitals and moderate supplies in their control, were able, aided by the purchase of medicines by the Freedmen's fund, to limit the extent of the disaster. Surgeon McCord has since, in connection with the Surgeon General, the Adjutant General, and the Secretary of the Trea- sury, endeavored to complete arrangements for the future. CONCLUSIOT^r, The inferences from these facts are obvious. Xo one can apprehend them, or penetrate their philosophy, without seeing, in the policy of the Government, towards the Freedmen, the easy settlement of some of the most difficult questions of reconstruc- tion. The results of reconstruction depend entirely upon the ma- terial used. We can erect a granite structure neither on a foun- dation of hay and stubble, nor out of clay and mortar. Neither debates nor papers, but what is made of these masses during the war, whether actually voters or not, must determine the status of these regions. With an aim to present exclusively these facts, essential to de- termine future action, much of the most touching and thrilling in the experience of my officers has been omitted. Intrusive fancy and DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE. 97 ambition have borne their mushroom fruits. Benevolence has erected its monuments, as in the sacrifice of the Yannatta and Buchanan families, and others. Their blood is on the hands of their murderers. Major Young and Captain Rogers fell sacrifi- ces to the exposure to malarial influences and sleepless activity required of my officers in their important duty. Planting too has offered its victims, the noble Cathcart and Winchell. Medi- cal care of the sable sick has cost the murder of the esteemed Fahnestock, and the captivity — perhaps death — of others. Not a few negroes have sealed their efforts for liberty with their blood. The falsely called chivalry have illustrated their boasts of superi- ority by the most diabolical atrocities of murder, mutilation and child-stealing. The saving of capital, of life, and of civihzation looks only in one direction — to the supremacy of law, affirmed as it can be, here and now, only by military power for white and black, hold- ing all to a stern accountability. Our country has been put to the test of the sacrifice of trea- sure, and comfort, and life — most severe, and yet not exhaustive — rather consistent with its mighty growth. It has also afforded the sublimest illustrations of self-sacrifice on the field of carnage. But the day of adjustments hastens, with tests more trying to our virtues. These strains have been upon my officers, and upon all, who, like them, have taken the advance in this settlement of our es- sential difficulties. Those who have been faithful are commended, for their vindication and reward, to future generations. Their deeds are their best records, and will live after them. Their names, more familiar to the future than the present, are already made fiimiliar among this people, and in this Report. It will be seen that I am especially indebted to Col. Samuel Thomas, Lieut. Cols. Mitchell and Eatox, Maj. Sargent, Capts. Walker and Mallory, and Chaplains Warren", Fisk and Hawley. My indebtedness to Commanding Officers in the valley, who have co-operated with me, is already apparent. Since Gen. Grant, no one has more faithfully studied the whole sub- ject than Maj. Gen. Dana, Commanding the Department of the Mississippi. Lieur. S. N", Clark has been specially useful in compiling this Report. 13 98 REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FREEDMEN. Acknowledging my special and repeated obligations to your- self, General, in all these affairs, I have the honor to be Your most obedient servant, JOHN EATON, Jr., Colonel, General Superintendent of Freedmen, Department of the Tennessee and State of Arkansas. ^■^i=6^5e>P^ ft x ^^Vv Hi VA