F 159 . H33 S6 Copy 1 HISTORY OP THE HAETSVILLE Ladies' Aid Society. Organized November 15, 1861 PUBLISHED BY THE SOCIET W. W. H. DAVIS, PRINTER. 1867. Y> HISTORY OP THE HAET8VILLE Ladies' Aid Society^ n? r? Organized November 15* 1861. PUBLISHED BY1THE SOCIETY. W. Tf. H. DAVIS, PRINTER. 1867. HARTSVILLE LADIES' AID SOCIETY. <3 The firing on Fort Sumter, which so thoroughly aroused the people of the United States, reached our little village and awaked the patriotic spirit, which the people had inherited from their revolutionary fathers. A firm determination to sustain the government by force of arms pervaded every heart ; but there seemed no immediate call for action. A company left Doylestown for the three months' service ; this was the nearest point where military movements were made, and the equipping and sending forth of this company required but little sacrifice on the part of our quiet people. It was not until after the terrible battle of " Bull Eun" and the hospitals at Washington were filled with our sick and wounded soldiers, that an appeal was made for clothing and delicacies, which reached us. In August, by espe- cial effort, a box of clothing and one of delicacies were prepared and forwarded to Washington, but as yet the ladies had not felt the necessity of forming themselves into a society for continued and uniform action. Most persons had looked upon the war as of short duration, and although all were ready to work, those nearest the seat of war were considered the most favorably situated to show their patriotism and sympathy with the soldiers. In September, 1861, the 101th Regiment was mustered into service in Doylestown, and numbered in it were the sons and brothers of those in our immediate vicinity. The war seemed nearer now ; " ought we not to be doing something for our soldiers ?" was asked by many of our ladies. In October, the 104th Regiment (still encamped in Doylestown) proposed to march to Hartsville and spend the day in the neighborhood. Although but two days notice was given of the plan, a place was prepared for their reception — a large assembly gathered to welcome them — and-a sumptuous repast prepared 4 Hartsville Ladies' in a creditable manner ; and to add interest to this unusual occasion, speakers were invited to address them. Most of the clergymen in the neighborhood were present, and Rev. J. Belville, then residing in Hartsville, though away from home, hastened his return, that he might T en courage these "citizen soldiers" to go forward to do battle for their country. Rather surprised at what could be accomplished in a short time, when there was concert of action, the ladies began to look about to see how they might form a society and work hand in hand for the comfort of the soldiers already in the field, little dreaming then what a mighty work needed to be performed by the loyal ladies of our land. Public notice was given from the pulpits that a meeting was to be held (in the lecture room of the Neshaminy Church on November 6th, 1861) with a view of forming a society to work for our soldiers. This preliminary meeting was well attended. Rev. D. K. Turner was appointed president and Rev. M. Long secretary. The proceed- ings were commenced with prayer. Divine blessing was invoked upon the new organization about to be formed, and upon those whom it designed to benefit. All the meetings of the society in evening session were ever afterward closed with prayer, when there was a clergyman present, and sometimes by laymen when clergymen were not in attentance. No further steps could be taken in this meeting than to appoint a committee to draft a constitution and by-laws, to report at the next meeting to be held in the same place November 15th. The committee appointed were Mrs. M. Long, Mrs. D. K. Turner, Mr. N. J. Rubinkam. At the second meeting General John Davis was called to the chair. The constitution and by-laws, with some amendments, were adopted. At the third meeting it was resolved from motives of convenience, to hold the subsequent meet- ings in the lecture room of the church in Hartsville. The meetings of the society were well attended during the entire winter. They were the principal resort of all the young people of the neighborhood. In the evening it was frequently much crowded. The gentlemen did not aid much with the sewing, but caused the time to pass quickly, while the young ladies plied the n^les. The gentlemen were always ready where their services could be of avail — in forwarding boxes, collecting supplies, &c. The young ladies of Roseland Institute all became members, and worked with a will. Aid Society. 5 During the winter the Secretary recorded the names of 141 members. 82 active members, 53 honoray and 6 life members. A person became life member by paying $5.00. The first work commenced was mittens for the members of the 104th Regiment, and before Christmas over 100 pairs of woolen mittens had been knit and forwarded. Company M, of the 8th Pennsylvania Cavalry, of which Captain A. Craven had command, was next supplied. Prom that time the attention of the society was wholly devoted to the wants of the sick and wounded. The first box that was prepared, was forwarded to the Sanitary Commission of Philadelphia. The Ladies' Aid of Philadelphia, at this time called most urgently for the assistance of the society, and most of the boxes for several months were forwarded to that organization. An extract from a letter of the secretary of the Ladies' Aid will show why their efforts were devoted to that society. The letter is a reply to one addresssd by the corresponding secretary to Mrs. Harris, (their worker among the soldiers,) requesting some account of her visits to the sick. My Dear Mrs. Nichols : Please excuse my failure to acknowl- edge your favor of Jan. 18th earlier. My days have been wholly given to the service of our soldiers. Returning late in the evenings from the camps, fatigued and weary, more in heart, and head, than in body, I could not write in a manner to give satisfaction, and so postponed replying to any letters until I could give a day to the work — this could not be done so long as I was within visiting distance of the Regimental Hospitals. I will give you a sketch of a part of last week's work in a hurried manner, and will beg you not to criticise style or manner of execution. Monday, Jan. 13th. Hearing of much suffering and death among some regiments of sharp shooters encamped north of the Capital, filled our carriage with shirts, bed ticks, carpet shoes, handkerchiefs, bed clothing, expectorant medi- cines, cocoa, corn starch, rags, wine, butter and eggs, and went on our sad errand, found much sickness, the surgeons only two for 1500 men, not all sick, but requiring oversight — wedry and worn, almost ready to give up their work. Measles had come amongst them, prostrating some hundred of the soldiers ; the attack, in most cases, mild in the beginning, but in consequence of neglect, or the difficulty of precuring necessary clothing, or other means of precaution against . cold, terminating in pheumonia, typhoid fever or malignant sore throat. Some thirty have gone beyond the reach of human sympathy 6 Hartsville Ladies' or care. Passing a tent, the Doctor (a kind hearted and good man) raised the canvass door and looking in expressed surprise to find'no occupants — it was the dead tent. The guard replied, " They have just carried out two, and a third is lying in his tent." When I tell you that these regiments are composed of the fairest flowers of the north, you will have some idea of the feelings, and thoughts, that chased through our hearts, and heads, on witnessing such scenes. There is some mismanagement and that very palpable. Attention of leading benevolent men has been given to these regiments and we hope improvement will soon follow, but who can bring back our dead soldiers ? Do not think such scenes are of common occurrence, they are not — suffering there is, but not springing from neglect. Our surgeons, and officers generally consider the sick and do what they can, with the means at hand, to promote their health and comfort. Everywhere we see the want of good cooks. The diet after all is the main thing — better be without surgeons than without good nurses and cooks. Visited three other hospitals, leaving such articles as were needed, if on hand; if not, we took lists of things absolutely necessary to the comfort of the sick. Among them were cough medicines, cocoa, spit-cups, feeding cups, tea-spoons, bed pans, &c, &c. Returned on Tuesday to an hospital visited the day previous, was told a lad from Maine wished to see me. His first question was, " Do you think I can be saved V " Yes, my boy, the blood of Jesus Christ, His son, cleanses from all sin, only look to Jesus. He is able and willing to save." Grave him a card, containing that precious hymn, "Just as I am," on one side, and some scripture passages, which have comforted so many of our soldiers in death. When I saw him again, he was trusting in Jesus, still living when 1 left Washington, hope he will live with Jesus forever. On Tuesday, the nurse called my attention to another lad from Reading, Pa., who had a few minutes before been brought in. Can not forget the anxious ex- pression of the dear fellow as we repeated some precious portions as food for thought ! He was greatly agitated and told me as I went to him, " I am very sick and oh ! so scared," tried to soothe him. He caught up the verses of scripture and said, " I learned them in Sunday School." Had to leave the poor boy, and when we returned two days after, he had gone Home as we humbly hope to Jesus. Other scenes of the same kind are constantly occurring, still our soldiers are in fine spirits and usual health. With regard to all your co-laborers, Yours, in the good work, MRS. JOHN HARRIS. Although the constitution of the society required a meeting but once a fortnight, yet the interest manifested demanded weekly nieet- ingS) both afternoon and evening, and when there was an urgent Aid Society. 7 appeal for supplies, and there was a desire of forwarding a box imme- diately, or when there was quilting to be done, the ladies assembled in the morning and worked industriously until 9 o'clock in the evening. A box of dry goods was prepared every month, and with it generally was sent a box of dried rusk or of delicacies. The society had scarcely commenced its operations, until anxiety was felt as to how the treasury was to be replenished. The monthly stipend was far too small for the demands upon it. A proposition was offered for each one, who felt dispose'dj to give a dollar. The next proposition was lectures for the benefit of the treasury. Rev. Messrs. Long, Turner and Wood were appointed a committee to secure lecturers. Rev. Mr. Wadsworth was first invited. He de- clined lecturing, but was willing to preach a sermon. He preached in the "Neshaminy Church" on January 9th, 1862. There were two lectures delivered in the " Hartsville Church" during the winter* one by President Allen, of Girard College, and the other by Ex- Grovernor Pollock, of Pennsylvania, all of which were highly enter- taining and acceptable to the audiences assembled. Collections were taken up on the occasions of these lectures, but the treasury was no* supplied in accordance with the expectations of the society. A committee of gentlemen was appointed to solicit contributions, who performed their part well and added $100 to the treasury. On the evening of the 22d of February, the society was entertained by the reading of " Washington's Farewell Address" and singing of the "Star Spangled Banner." After the battle of Fair Oaks, many of the wounded were brought to Philadelphia, and nursed in St. Joseph's Hospital. A large quantity of provisions and delicacies were sent to the hospital for their benefit. At the meeting of July 4th, the manner of increasing the funds was again brought before the society. A mass meeting with the s ale of refreshments, was discussed and considered favorably. On July 28th, a meeting of all the members of the society, and all interested in its success, was called " to take measures for holding a Mass Meeting to secure funds in aid of the society, and to promote an interest in the community in enlistment to fill the thinned ranks of the army, and meet the call of the President for 300,000 new troops." To carry out the arrangements for this meeting, fourteen separate committees were appointed, who performed willingly, and 8 Hartsville Ladies' efficiently the duties assigned them, and secured the success of the undertaking. The meeting was held in the grove of R. H. Darrah, August 21st, 1862. Judge Knox of the Supreme Court, and Attorney General of Pennsylvania, Morton McMichael, Esq., of Philadelphia, and Colonel John W. Forney were secured as speakers. " Parson" Brownlow, though confidently expected, was obliged to be absent. The Hatborough Brass Band contributed the music. This Mass Meeting was a grand success. The weather was warm, and the roads dusty, but the people of the surrounding neighbor- hood and from more distant parts of the country swarmed to the place of gathering in numbers that seemed to have no end. A large stand had been erected for the speakers and for the brass band. There were tables loaded with refreshments of various kinds, and attended by ladies, who had business on hand in abundance. The ice cream table did the most active business. Rev. J. Belville, the firm friend of the society from its origin, was appointed President ; Rev. M. Long and Mr. Geo. Jamison, Secretaries. Nine soldiers of the war of 1812, who were present, were appointed Vice Presidents. The following resolutions, which will show the spirit which actuated the men and women who worked so hard on that day, were read and adopted : Resolutions of Mass Meeting, August 21st, 1862. Resolved, That civil government is of God, and that obedience to its legitimate authority is one of the first solemn duties of man j that the government of the United States is the most legitimate government on the earth, originating not in any usurpation of an individual or of a class, but in the voluntary delegation of power by those to whom alone God has given the right to exert or delegate it, viz, the people ; that therefore the American Constitution as it is, (until amended, as is provided), is God's law to the American people; that as a people we owe devout thanksgiving to God, not only for the excellence of the Government under which we live, and for the wonderful series of providences, by which its privileges were at first secured and have been continued to us, but for the fidelity with which it has been ordinarily and is now administered ; and that to this Government it is the duty of every citizen of the whole United Aid Society. 9 States to render true allegiance, and to give his means, his influence, and if need be, his blood, to the maintenance of its authority. Resolved, That the so-called Southern Confederacy is a rebellious usurpation both causeless and wanton; that it is not justified nor in the least extenuated by any pretended wrong ever suffered by the citizens of the Southern States at the hands of the Grovernment, against which they have rebelled ; and that therefore the war inaugurated by the Southern Secession against the United States, is an attrocious crime against Heaven and earth, which should bring down the judgment of G-od, and the execration of man upon every citizen of the North or South, of our own or other lands, who aids, abets, or sympathizes with the same. Resolved, That it is the duty of the Gfovernment to maintain its authority by force, not only for the preservation of its integrity and of the rights and liberties of its own citizens, but for the maintenance of the great principles of self-government and the rights of men, now imperilled by the most deadly assaults they have ever sustained at the hands of despotic power; and that to this end it is the duty of the people to respond with cheerfulness to every demand of the Grovernment for means and men until the last vestige of rebellion is •swept from the land, and the government of the United States is restored to its wonted integrity, and that all resistence by word or deed to necessary taxation or draft, though not so daring, is as ini- quitous as avowed rebellion. Resolved, That the most devout gratitude of the American people is due to the most High Grod, that in this hour of peril He has given us a President wise, honest, firm, and actuated by a true patriotism that has raised the Presidential chair, as it should be, above the arena of party strife ; that in the Grovernment as organized, we recognize the representative, not of a political party, but of the American people ; that it is the duty of every good citizen, without distinction of party, to rally around the President and sustain him in his laudable efforts to subdue rebellion, and that all endeavors to revive party spirit, to perpetuate party distinctions, and to create prejudice against the President and his administrations, are fraught with peril to the best interests of our land, no less than open treason. Resolved, That thanks are due to the young men of our land who have volunteered for their country's defence; that we mourn the dead ; that we sympathize with the sick and wounded, that we would encourage the living to deeds of bravery by the assurance of our grateful remembrances, our sympathy, aid and fervent prayers. We will cherish the memory of all, and commend their deeds to the grat- itude and imitation of posterity. 2 10 Hartsville Ladies' Resolved, That the gratitude of the country and of posterity is due to the patriotic women of our land, and to none more than to those by whose invitation we are here to-day, for their faithful and self-denying services on the behalf of the sick and wounded of our army. Resolved, That we neither ask nor expect sympathy or aid of despots or their willing slaves : but commend our cause in faith to Freedom's God, pledging to that cause ourselves till death. The speeches made on the occasion were able, eloquent, and patriotic, and filled the hearts of the people with a true patriotism, and encouraged those who had so lately given up their dearest earthly friends for their country's cause j for on that very day Company G f of the 128th Regiment, which was composed of the young men of the neighborhood, were on their way to the seat of war. The ladies had their hearts rejoiced and felt themselves amply rewarded for their arduous labor by finding their treasury increased by $500. And they began to work with still greater zeal. Apples, Onions, and dried rusk were sent with other supplies. A load of provisions was sent to the Hospital at Grermantown. At the close of the first year an election of officers was held, by which the officers of the former year were all retained and received a vote of thanks for their faithful discharge of duty. The society held its first anniversary meeting in the Hartsville chnrch and was addressed by the Rev. G-eo. Mingins, of Huntingdon Valley, who had labored among the soldiers under the direction of the Christian Com- mission. He related many incidents of sad interest that he had been called upon to witness. In taking a review of the work of the first year, the society had forwarded 13 boxes and two loads of provision, valued in all at 1843.33. During the second year there was still more work accomplished than during the first. In the winter the young men were called upon to collect funds, and this time increased the amount in the treasury by $130. In the spring vacation of Roseland Institute, that building was kindly offered as a place to hold a social festival, which was galdly accepted. The entertainment took place April 2d, 1863. The school room was handsomely decorated with evergreens and fitted up for the sale of refreshments. The other rooms were pre- Aid Society. 11 pared for the reception and entermaininent of the guests of whom about 200 were present. Patriotic songs were sung and played, and with social conversation and games, the evening passed away delight- fully j when the company left $100 was in the hands of the treasurer. Encouraged by the success of the first Mass Meeting, all were ready to engage in another, which was held in the same grove on the 10th of September, 1863. The same committees, with a few added, acted as before, and the meeting was conducted in the same manner. Rev. J. Belville was appointed President, and forty-eight of our noble young men, who had been in the military service of the United States or of Pennsylvania, were chosen Vice Presidents. The president in his opening address announced two very impor- tent items of news just received. 1st. That the northern traitor, Clement L. Valandigham, was no longer within the boundary of the United States. 2d. That Morris Island had been evacuted by the reb- els. Both of which were received with loud cheers from all patriotic hearts. The audience listened attentively to eloquent and earnest speeches from Judge Knox and from Rev. Mr. McAuley of Phila- delphia, who had been the soldiers friend upon the Battle Field and in the Hospital. The meeting, though not so large as the first, was a very pleasant one, and secured to the friends of the society $370.00. During this year 10 boxes had been forwarded, valued at $1278.22, sent mostly to the Ladies Aid of Philadelphia ; some placed at the disposal of that organization, and others with directions where we wished them to be sent. At the election of officers at the close of the second year, on account of the death of the Vice President and resignation of the Recording Secretary, Miss Mary Graven was chosen Vice President, and Mrs. J. L. Widdifield, Recording Secretary. The other officers were retained. In the early part of the winter a correspondence was commenced with Miss. Pollock (a friend of several members of the society). In reply to our inquiries, the following letter was received. St. Elizabeth Hospital, | Washington, D. C, Dec. 14, 1863. j To the Ladies 1 Aid Society of Hartsville : Dear Friends : — I received a letter from your secretary, 12 Hartsville Ladies' stating, that you intended to send me a box .of hospital stores for distribution among needy soldiers, and wish to know what is most needed. I will relate some facts that will give you an idea of our wants. I got back from my furlough October 14th. Within three days we received more than one hundred patients from Meade's army. Some were sick from the hospitals on the field and many worn out from ■severe marching. Of the whole number there were not twenty that had socks fit to put on again. In two or three weeks half of them were sent to regiments or transported to their State Hospitals. They were not paid during the time they were here, and could not buy. They had not their descriptive lists and could not draw — they must have socks when they were going away. If we know it we never allow a man to go to his regiment without comfortable clothes, if by any possible means we can supply their wants. Two months ago a boy went away ; Mrs. P. (a nurse) gave him good clothes which she had received in a box. Six weeks after he wrote to know if she could send him a shirt. In a fight near Brandy Station they were going " double quick ;" he has an affection of the lungs, and to save himself had to throw away his knapsack, so that all the six weeks he wore the same shirt. He took it off sometimes to wash and put it on as soon as dry. Two weeks ago another of our number had a letter from a boy in Convalescent Gamp asking for a woolen shirt. He had been a patient, but was an attendant when I came here more than a year ago. He was in a Hospital in Philadelphia all summer, and on his way from there to Convalescent Camp he lost his clothes and was without money. I went to the Penna. Relief Association in Washington, told them his history : they gave me a shirt and socks which were sent to him. He has since gone to his regiment. I have an amputated case who came several months ago for his wooden leg. A few weeks ago gangrene showed itself in his stump, and last week he was taken with rheumatism ; he cannot move at all, not even his hands. Another came in from camp two months ago with camp dysentery, and the disease now seems to have assumed a chronic form. His diet has consisted wholly of crackers and boiled milk, with occasionally an egg. I have bought a quart of milk every day since he came. At times it seems impossible for him to recover, but within the last few days he is better. For such cases flannel is indispensable. Another boy of eighteen years from New York got his wooden leg two months ago ; got his discharge and what money was due him and was all ready to go home. His discharge and money were stolen, so that he is here yet, and will have to get another discharge which will be some trouble. He is not receiving pay as he is discharged ; the rest of the < boys have made up the money to him, but his parents are poor and" I would like to send him away with good clothes. I might tell any number of such cases that are constantly coming before us, and the only means of supplying Aid society. 13 their wants is from resources furnished by people at home. Mrs P. sometimes gets boxes from her friends in New York, but at present ' she has nothing of the kind on hand. The supply of socks that can be drawn for hospital use is limited, and they are not of a superior quality. Flannel shirts cannot be drawn at all for hospital use. We occasionally get a few shirts from the Sanitary Commission, but you can easily understand that all these wants cannot be met by a few. We darn and patch socks that I venture to say the most careful of # your number would think was only fit to be thrown away. As to the provisions of which you spoke, anything would be useful and acceptable which you would use in your own families. Farina, corn- starch and crackers we get as we need from our Commissary. I regret to say that what we most need you cannot send, namely, milk and eggs. Please send by express, take a receipt and forward to me, that I may present it at the office, otherwise I may have trouble. * * * With high appreciation of your kindness, I am yours, truly, MAKY POLLOCK. After which several boxes were sent to her, and many letters of interest received. The society became very much interested in making quilts ; about twenty quilts in all were made, some of them " Album Quilts," which were afterwards bestowed to the soldiers, on whose beds they had been used, and who had become attached to their bright colors, and interested in the names written on them. A letter was received from a lady in Washington asking this favor on behalf of the soldiers. Washington City, Nov. 8th, 1884. Secretary Soldiers' Aid Society, Hartsville, JPenna. : This is a cold, disagreeable evening, and with your permission, I am going to have a good long chat with the members of the " Hartsville Aid Society/' If I monopolize too much time, I know you will pardon me for I am going to speak of the' soldiers who have suffered and endured more than we, surrounded with every comfort, we can ever realize, or they can ever tell. I have just returned from my almost daily visit to the " Judiciary Square Hospital." Ward 10 I found quite in a commotion over some Album Quilts Miss Pol- lock had been distributing, and also enjoying, not a little, some good, fresh butter received from your society some three days since. The young men to whom the butter was more particularly sent, I assure you, fully appreciated your kindness, and in coming years, after this 14 Hartsville Ladies' War shall have ended, and this terrible struggle for Liberty sball be among the things that have long since passed away, will these maimed soldiers look back upon their Hospital days, and recall much that is pleasant, for although their sufferings were terribly severe, and their longing for home comforts and the dear familiar faces almost beyond endurance — still mingled with these were many kind words, and noble deeds received at the hands of strangers that they can never forget. No matter how trivial the act, I believe it is treas- ured in the roughest soldier's heart, and perhaps has a refining influ- ence that may lead him to higher things. I think if every loyal woman knew how far a kind word or even a kind look went, the Hospitals where our brave boys are lying sick, wounded and dying, would be more frequently and more cheerfully visited. Each of these four young men is seriously wounded, and has beside been very ill. Three, Charles Stewart, James Dickson, (Reg. Army), and Concannon have had a leg amputated. Serg't Charles Hasseltine was wounded in the knee joint. All in the battle of the Wilderness. Hasseltine is still confined to his bed, he has been improving quite rapidly until the last few days — his wound is breaking out again — the others are able to be about somewhat, though they do not venture out of the ward. They are all intelligent and gentlemanly young fellows. Dickson is very anxious to take his quilt home with him, as it would be a pleasing souvenir in after years. He is quite young, ran off from home at sixteen to join the army. But his father was soon on his track, and took him back. Being a firm believer in the old proverb, " if at first you don't succed, try, try again," he made another attempt, and was successful. He served his country faithfully until he lost his right leg. In a few weeks he will return home, not regretting, however, that he entered the army. If the ladies and gentlemen who have ornamented his quilt with their names think he is deserving of it for a keepsake, he would appreciate the gift highly. I appeal to Col. Wright as the Superior Officer and Mrs. Taylor as the oldest. Of Miss Pollock, /need say but little. Very many of you know her personally — all by reputation. I am well acquainted with her through her patients, who all speak of her in terms of the highest praise. She has endeared herself to those in her care by her sincere interest in their welfare — her watchful tenderness, and her untiring devotion. She would not hesitate a moment to do and to give any- thing in her power to promote the comfort and happiness of those entrusted to her keeping. The reward of such women will surely be great. But it will not come in this world, for it will be a reward higher and holier than this world can give. Certainly the beautiful lines of Longfellow are applicable, " Let us then be up and doing with a heart for any fate, Still achieving, still pursuing, learn to labor and to wait." Aid Society. 15 The Hospitals are at present almost deserted, many of the inmates have heen discharged, many forloughed, and some transferred. All convalescent, that are able, have gone home to vote; but if there is another battle the wards will be rapidly filled up ; and again will the solemn beating of the drum and the continual passing of ambulances, impress us still more forcibly with the magnitude of this cruel war, and remind us of still other hearthstones left desolate. And while the mother, wife or sister is praying at home for the protection of him who is nearest and dearest — the loved one cold and lifeless wrapped in the flag he has so nobly defended, is perhaps being carried to his last resting place and laid in his narrow bed on the Heights of Arlington. He and they who are lying beside him have fought their last battle, and whilst the owner of that grandeur is now our country's most dreaded foe, and is striking at the very heart of the nation, they sweetly and calmly sleep on the banks of the blue Potomac, and from- the Dome of the Nation's Capitol the Groddess of Liberty reverently guards their slumbers. Little did General Lee think six years ago that his old homestead would be converted into a cemetery for those he would slay in battle. But I am forgetting myself. I have already occupied more of your time than I intended. I thank you for listening so patiently. The only apology I have to offer for my intrusion is that I am a loyal woman and a friend of the soldier wherever he may be found. I believe your society is doing much good, and I hope your efforts in behalf of the soldiers will be zeal- ously continued until the union is restored and our gallant heroes shall doff their warlike garments and don the habiliments of peace. With many good wishes for the success, happiness and prosperity of all connected with the Hartsville Aid Society, and a sincere sympathy with them in their noble endeavors to contribute to the welfare of our soldiers, and thanking you all heartily in behalf of those who have been the recipients of your kindness, I am, your friend, ANNIE S. WAY. In February a call was made for assistance for the suffering refugees of East Tennessee. A committee of ladies was appointed to collect money for that purpose. At the next meeting the committee reported they had collected $90. An appeal reaching the society for clothing for the refugees at Cairo about the same time, the society divided the money, sending $50 to East Tennessee, and $40 worth of clothing ,to Cairo. The next expedient to increase the funds of the society was an invitation to Signor Blitz. March 21st he gave two entertainments in behalf of the society in the lecture room of the Neshaminy Church. 16 Hartsville Ladies' The performance was so attractive that the room was crowded so that standing room could not be found for the audience; every available corner of the room was filled ; at length the floor gave way, and lowered part of the crowd about two feet, where they reached "terra firma" without injuring any one. After Signor Blitz had been com- pensated for his services, $85 remained for the treasurer. Among the minutes of March 25th, 1864, we find the following. Inasmuch as one of the esteemed members of our society, Rev. J. Belville, is about to move from our midst, on motion, the society resolve unanimously to return a vote of thanks to him for the deep interest he has ever manifested in us as a society from its commence- ment until the present time, and for the many and efficient services he has rendered us, always ready to devise plans and co-operate with us in every measure tending to promote the best interests of the society. We deeply lament the loss of such a member, but our loss will, in all probability, be gain to another similar organization. Our best wishes attend him. Miss Pollock, in order to show how highly the soldiers under her care appreciated the gifts of the society, sent a package containing articles manufactured by " her hoys." These articles on being received were sold to members of the society at public sale, and were bought as momentoes of soldiers' gratitude. About the middle of July, the propriety of holding a third Mass Meeting for the benefit of the society began to be contemplated. Similar arrangements to those made on former years were made. The meeting was held on the 18th of August, 1864. Rev. M. Long was president of the meeting. The large audience assembled was addressed by Rev. J. Belville, Rev. T. DeWitt Talmadge, of Phila- delphia, and by George H. Stuart, Esq., President of the United States Christian Commission. The assembly was much interested in the remarks of all these gentlemen, especially those of Mr. Stuart, who gave many moving and interesting statements in reference to the sufferings and hardships of our heroic defenders in the army; and the work of supplying their wants, both temporal and spiritual, in which the Christian Commission is engaged. The gain accruing to the society from this effort was $540. A Hospital having been established at White Hall, in our county, near Bristol, on the Delaware river, and the society hearing that much good could be done to the suffering there by visiting them, Aid Society. 17 and taking supplies, a representative was appointed to go with one from the Warminster society to spend a week at the Hospital ; to take supplies and ascertain whether it was expedient to turn our efforts more particularly to that point ; and whether it was advisable to keep a representative there. The representative returned after staying a week, but finding the surgeons acknowledged no such assistants in their arrangements, together with the inconvenience of getting to and from the Hospital, the subject was dropped, and the work continued as before. At the end of this year an election of officers was held. Mrs. N. J. Rubinkam was elected Vice President, and the former officers retained. The anniversary meeting was held Nov. 6th. The exercises were opened with prayer by Rev. J. Belville. A history of the so- ciety from its foundation was read by Rev. D. K. Turner. The meeting was then addressed by Rev. J. Belville and Rev. Mr. Atkinson, agent of the Christian Commission. Many of the incidents he related were interesting and touching, especially to many who had lately lost friends in their country's service. After the address, a collection was taken up for the Christian Commission, amounting to $75. After prayer by Rev. D. K. Turner, the congregation retired with new interest in the spiritual and temporal welfare of our brave countrymen who were enduring the hardships of war in our defence. The society having continued its work uninterruptedly for over three years, and no " holiday had seen," it was proposed to have a social entertainment — a Christmas Dinner, in the usual place of meeting, prepared by the members. The day proved a very pleasant one — the repast a bountiful one of turkey, chickens, mince pie, and all that belongs to Christmas Dinner, and was highly enjoyed by all that partook. In fitting out the boxes it was proposed to send comfort bags, which proposition was acted upon cheerfully : and from the size and quantity of the bags, the soldiers received much comfort, and the letters received in answer to those sent .ki the bags, were read in the society and listened to with much interest. The society continued its regular meetings, and worked with its accustomed energy and activity — rejoicing in the victories, and often speculating as to how long the work of the society would be needed. All were preparing for a general rejoicing, when the war should close, and our victorious troops should be welcomed home. 3 18 Hartsville Ladies' When suddenlj, by the sad news of the death of the beloved Presi- dent of the United States, their rejoicing was forgotten, and the room where the society had held its meetings for three years and a half, was draped in mourning. The following resolutions were read and adopted: Resolutions ON THE DEATH OF PRESIDENT LINCOLN. Whereas, Abraham Lincoln, late President of the United States, was shot by a vile assassin on the evening of April 14th, 1865, and died after an interval of a few hours, and Whereas, We, the members of this Society, feel called upon to express unitedly our sense of the dreadful enormity of this atrocious crime, and the great loss the nation has experienced. Resolved, That we lament with unfeigned and deep regret, the sudden and violent death of our Chief Magistrate, whose vigor, wisdom, and prudence have under G-od brought us apparently so near to the end of the rebellion, and to the enjoyment once more of the manifold blessings of peace. Resolved, That we regard his death as a great national calamity, in that it deprives us of a Ruler, whose sagacity, firmness, and exalted patriotism have been tried through four years of war almost unparalleled upon the pages of history, in the magnitude of the armies engaged", the number of battles fought, of cities and towns taken, and the length of marches performed by our brave and victo- rious troops. Resolved, That as it was the will of Providence, that he should die while in his second term of the Presidential office, we rejoice that he was preserved from the deadly plots of the enemies of our government, until he saw the capital city of the rebellion taken, its armies nearly all vanquished, and its leaders compelled to flee for their lives. Resolved, That we execrate the awful and daring deed by which he was killed, and trust that the perpetrator and his accomplices may be brought to speedy and condign punishment. Resolved, That we sympathize deeply with the bereaved family, Aid Society. 19 and pray that they may be sustained by a compassionate Savior in in their severe affliction. Richmond had been taken — Lee's army surrendered — Jefferson Davis captured — our brave boys were coming home. The society had completed the work for which it had been commenced. What was left in the treasury must be contributed to the comfort of the maimed and disabled. Miss Pollock being on a visit to her friends in Hartsville, after four years of self-sacrificing labor, having given her time, ease, and comfort, that she might, as far as possible, contribute to the comfort of the soldiers, the society desiring to show their appreciation of her labors and sacrificices, presented her with $50 from their fund. The society commenced to dispose of the material on hand, and prepare the way for closing its operations. A meeting was appointed the first Friday in September to take into consideration the proper mode of disposing of the remaining fund. Nothing definite being decided, the meeting adjourned till the first Friday in December. At that meeting $25 were given to a soldiers widow in the neighborhood, and $50 to the " City Pastor."* A meeting held first Friday in August, voted the remaining money, $200, to the Soldier's Home, in Philadelphia. *He was engaged in providing for the spiritual and temporal wants of the needy soldiers, widows and orphans of soldiers, in Philadelphia. 20 Hartsville Ladies' Constitution and By-Laws OF THE LADIES' SOLDIERS AID SOCIETY OP HARTSVILLE. CONSTITUTION. Preamble — Prompted by a desire to sustain the hands and en- courage the hearts of those who are so nobly contending for the- preservation of our Union, we, the Ladies of Hartsville and vicinity, have resolved to form ourselves into an association, the object of which shall be to afford aid and comfort to the sick and wounded of our Army and Navy, and to provide for those in active service such necessary clothing as is not furnished by the G-overnment. We do hereby adopt the following Constitution. Art. 1st. This Society shall be called the " Soldiers Aid Society of Hartsville." Art.. 2d. The officers of this Association shall consist of a Presi- dent, Vice President, Corresponding Secretary, Recording Secretary, Treasurer, and a Board of Managers, to be chosen annually on the first Wednesday in November. Art. 3d. It will be the duty of the President to preside at all the meetings, and direct the operations of the Association. Art. 4th. The duty of the Vice President will be to take the place of the President in the absence of that officer. Art. 5th. The Corresponding Secretary shall have charge of the correspondence. Art. 6th. The Recording Secretary shall keep a record of all the business transacted by the Association, the names of the members and officers, and shall at the opening of each meeting read the record of the preceding meeting. Art. 7th. The Treasurer shall receive all moneys paid to the Association, pay all bills as authorized by the officers, keep an accu- rate account of all the receipts and expenditures, and report to the Association at least once a month. Art. 8th. It shall be the duty of the Managers to co-operate with the President in devising and adopting such measures as shall to them seem most desirable to render the Association most efficient ; Aid Society. 21 also to solicit contributions, as the condition of the treasury may demand. Art. 9th. Any person may become a member of this Association by the payment of twenty-five cents into the Treasury, after that a monthly payment of ten cents. Gentlemen will be considered Honorary Members of the Associa- tion by the payment of the sum above stated, and entitled to advise and consult with the members. Art. 10th. This Constitution shall not be altered or amended except by a vote of two-thirds of the members present at a regular meeting, and any amendment must be proposed at least four weeks before its adoption. BY-LAWS. Art. 1st. The meetings of the Officers of the Association shall be held once a month. Art. 2d. The regular meeting for work of all interested, shall be held once a fortnight at such times and place as shall be decided upon by a majority of the members. Art. 3d. The purchasing committee shall consist of two indi- viduals, who shall take their directions from the Board of Managers. Art. 4th. The Committee on work and supplies shall consist of four persons, who' shall arrange and inspect the work, and collect such articles as may be needed for Hospitals, and report monthly. Art. 5th. The President shall take charge of all stores and ap- propriate them according to the advice and counsel of the Asso- ciation. Art. 6th. Amendments to these By-Laws may be made by a vote of the majority of the members of the Association present at a reg- ular meeting. Every amendment must be proposed at least two weeks before its adoption. The society was permanently organized by electing the following named persons as Officers. President — Miss E. N. Davis. Vice President — Mrs. D. K. Turner. Corresponding Secretary — Mrs. E. Nichols. Recording Secretary — Miss J. K. Long. Treasurer — Mrs. M. Glasgow. 22 Hartsvihe Ladies' Mrs. Erwin, Miss A. Beans, Miss Rachel Long, Mrs. Mearns, Managers. Mrs. Rubinkam, Mrs. Mathews, Miss J. Horner, Mrs. Widdifield, Mrs. Addis, Miss M. Craven. Mrs. J. V. Craven. Purchasing Committee — Mrs. Addis, Mrs. Turner. Committee of Work — Mrs. Mann , Mrs. Freeland, Miss Mary Craven, Mrs. Widdifield. Packing and Forwarding Committee — Mrs. Turner, Mrs. Nichols, Mrs. Widdifield, Messrs. Widdifield and Darrah. Committee on Room — Messrs. Jamison and Long. ]\£e:m.bers. LIFE MEMBERS Rev. J. Belville, Rev. Mahlon Long, Rev. D. K. Turner, Rev. A. M. Woods, Gen. John Davis, Mrs. Mahlon Long, Mrs. Charles Long, Mrs. D. K. Turner, Miss E. N. Davis, Miss Mary Pollock. HONORARY MEMBERS. Wm. P. Ames, Stacy B. Beans, Harman Y. Beans, J. M. Boileau, C. Bowers, O. D. Bowers, Joseph Barnsley, Rev. J. Belville, Jos. Belville, J. Carter, Hugh Carrell, Wm. H. Conard, R. Croasdale, Ezra Carrell, J. D. Duffield, Geo. Jamison, jr., J. Laverell, Rev. Mahlon Long, S. F. Long, Jos. Lear, R. G. S. McNeille, J. McGraudy, A. E. M. Miles, T. W. Meredith, C. Meredith, N. D. Marple, Dr. W. Mathews, John Polk, N. J. Rubinkam, Wm. Rubinkam, Aid Society. 23 Gen. John Davis, R. H. Darrah, J. M. Darrah, James Field, J. Flack, Wm. Glasgow, Jos. Hart, B. F. Hart, J. Jamison, B. T. Jamison, Wm. Jamison, sr., Wm Jamison, jr., Gr. W. Jamison, J. R. Jones, Smith Radcliffe, Charles Ramsey, Henry Robinson, H. C. Stuckert, Geo. Taylor, Rev. D. K. Turner, J. L. Widdifield, Rev. A. M. Woods, Watson Wood, Isaac Wood, W. W. Whitecar, Harman Yerkes, Hutchinson Yerkes. LADIES' NAMES. Mrs. S Y. Addis, Miss Anna C Beans, Mrs. Geo. Brown, Miss Jane E. Bothwell, Mrs. Eliza H. Brown, Miss M. C. Brodie, Miss J. Blair, Mrs. C. S. Belville, Miss Maria Belville, Miss Mary Belville, Miss Kate Belville, Miss Carrie Belville, Miss Letitia Buyers, Miss E. S. Baird, Miss Eliza Carr, Mrs. Hugh Carrell, Mrs. Ezra Carrell, Miss M. H. Craven, Mrs. Jane V. Craven, Miss Ellen Croasdale, Miss Mary Cornell, Miss J. Carr, Miss Louisa Janvier, Miss Rachel Long, Miss A. E. Long, Miss A Long, Mrs. C B. Long, Miss J. R. Long, Mrs. Andrew Long, Mrs. Anna Long, Mrs. Mary Lowere, Miss Susan Mann, Mrs. Wm. Mann, Miss C. V. Marple, Miss S. E. Marple, Mrs. W. Mathews, Mrs. A. Mearns, Miss Anna Myers, Miss Louisa McCarter, Miss Hannah McNair, Miss E. M. Mcllvaine, Miss E. J. Mitchell, Miss Mary McNeille, Mrs. Emily Nichols, 24 Hartsvillk Ladies' Miss Kate Darrah, Miss Rebecca Darrah, Miss E. N. Davis, Mrs. A T. Duffield, Mrs. Ellen Darrah, Mrs. Stephen Decoursey, Miss Susan Dungan, Mrs. W. W H. Davis, Miss Rebecca Ely, Mrs. R. T. Engart, Mrs. A. M. Erwin, Miss A. M. Erwin, Miss Everhart, Mrs. J. Field, Mrs. E. Freeland, Miss Susan M. French, Miss M. A. Flack, Mrs. M. B. Glasgow, Miss I. J. Glasgow, Miss Elizabeth Hart, Miss Mary Hart, Miss Ann Eliza Hart, Miss Jane Horner, Mrs. Joseph Hart, Mrs. James Horner, Miss Emma Jamison, Miss Phebe Jamison, Miss Rachel Jamison, Miss Jane Jamison, Miss Maria Jamison, Mrs. Wm. Jamison, Mrs. Annie Jamison, Mrs. J. Neilds, Mrs. Mary Polk, Miss Helen Paxson, Miss Helen Rich, Miss V. Robinson, Miss F. Rubinkam, Mrs. N. J. Kubinkam, Mrs. S. Snyder, Mrs. Louisa Spencer, Mrs. Wm. Stuckart, Miss S. E. Stuckart, Miss Charlotte Spottswood, Miss V. Thomas, Miss A. Thompson, Miss E. Thompson, Mrs. Taylor, Miss Jane Thompson, Mrs. Rachel Turner, Miss A. Vanuxem, Mrs. F. C. H. Widdifield, Miss Mary Watson, Miss Jane Watson, Mrs. Caroline Whiting, Mrs. E Wynkoop, Miss Ettie Woods, Miss A. Ward, Miss E. Way, Miss A. Way, Miss M. Yerkes, Miss Hester Yerkes, Miss Yates, Aid Society. 25 Exhibit of Treasurer of Hartsville Ladies' .A.id Society. August 10, 1866. 82,986.93 have been paid into the Treasury from various sources, and all disbursed except $230 now at interest, to be disposed of as ordered by the Society. 39 Boxes have been Forwarded, as below : 4 to Miss Pollock, Washington. 1 to 104th P. V. 7 to Mrs. Jones. 1 to Cairo, 111. 8 to Christian Commission. 2 to Sanitary do. 1 to Dr. A. S. Jones. 3 to Mrs. Harris, Army of the Potomac. 1 to Christian Street Hospital, Philadelphia. 1 to Cumberland, Maryland. 1 to Kentucky. 1 to White House, Virginia. 1 to Steamer Spalding. 1 to Harrison's Landing. 1 to Winchester, Virginia. 1 to Annapolis, Maryland. 2 to Philadelphia Ladies' Aid Society. 1 to Tennessee. 1 to White Hall Hospital. These boxes were valued at $4,050. Contents of Boxes, as follows : 849 Shirts. 1 box Bottons. 454 pair Drawers. 2 dozen Combs. 195 Pillow Cases. 40 lbs. Sugars. 26 BfARTSVILLE LADIES' 15 Wrappers. 169 pair Mittens. 92 " Socks. 101 " Slippers. 594 " Stockings. 48 Bedsacks. 164 Sheets. 130 Pillows. 49 Quilts. 28 pair Pantaloons. 2 Carpet Blankets. 353 Towels. 708 Handkerchiefs. 222 Bandages. 8 Slings. 14 Pans. 17 Pads. 1 Roll Cotton. 1 Box Medicines. 3 Vests. 3 Coats. 9 Boys' Suits. 3 Girls' Sacques. 36 pieces Clothing for and Children. 15J bushels Apples. 2 barrels Pickles. 1 barrel Crackers. Cheese in quantity. 4 dozen Spoons. 1 do. Tin Cups. 22| lbs. Tea. Eye Shades, ad libitum. Spices, do. do. 22 bushels Onions. 8 do. Potatoes. 1 do. Beets. \ bushel Strawberries. 24 barrels Rusk. 1 barrel Gingerbread. 44 lbs. Farina. 63£ lbs. Butter. 25 dozen Eggs. 4 cans Concentrated Soup. . 160 do. Fruit. 66 bottles of Wine. 5 gallons Tomatoes. 4 Chickens. 5 gallons Milk. 1 lb. Coffee. 1 gallon of Vinegar. 4 cans Jelly. Women 3 lbs. Dried Apples. 1 jar Pickled Cabbage. Pins v in quantity. Needles in quantity. 23 Comfort Bags. Reading Matter^ assorted. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS ii ii 111 1 mi ii ii iii i ii 1 1 II 014 365 086 8 g