E 641 115892 Copy 1 General Report of the National Memorial Celebration and Peace Jubilee (National Memorial Reunion) VtcKsburg. Mississippi. October 16 to 19, 1917 ¥ By Colonel Willard D. Newbill (Field Artillery) Quartermaster Corps, U. S. Army la Charge of Arrangements m WASHINGTON GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 1918 i 65th Congress, 2d Session House Document No. 751 General Report of the National Memorial Celebration and Peace Jubilee (National Memorial Reunion) Vicftsburg, Mississippi, October 16 to 19, 1917 * By Colonel Willard D. Newbill (Field Artillery) Quartermaster Corps, U. S. Army In Charge of Arrangements WASHINGTON GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 1918 u House of Representatives, January 7, 1918. Ordered to be printed, with illustrations. D. of D. MAR 18 1918 REPORT OF THE NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE, VICKSBURG, MISS., OCTOBER 16-19, 1917. November 21, 1917. From: Col. Willard D. Newbill, Quartermaster Corps, Vicksburg, Miss. To: The Quartermaster General of the Army, Washington, D. C. Subject: The National Memorial Celebration and Peace Jubilee (National Memorial Reunion). 1. PREFACE. The following general report is made upon the National Memorial Celebration and Peace Jubilee, commonly called "The National Memorial Reunion," of which I was placed in charge by paragraph 48, S. O. 59, W. D 1917, and which was conducted under instruc- tions of letter from the Office of the Quartermaster General dated March 15, 1917 (354.1-S). By act of Congress approved September 8, 1916, the sum of $150,000 was appropriated for this celebration to be held at Vicks- burg, Miss., on October 16 to 19, 1917, inclusive, "by the survivors of the Armies of the Tennessee and of the Mississippi who partici- pated in the Battle of Vicksburg, July, 1863, in commemoration of a half century of peace and good fellowship which happily exists throughout the Republic, to be expended under the direction and supervision of the Secretary of War," and it was provided that all arrangements be fully complete by October 14, 1917; further pro- vided that the National Association of Vicksburg Veterans should have charge of the order of exercises during the celebration; the physical control of the camp and grounds and the movement of troops and marching bodies to be in the hands of the Secretary of War under such officers as detailed by him. The maximum attendance, estimated by the War Department in March, was between eighteen and twenty thousand, but more exact figures were expected from the president of the National Association of Vicksburg Veterans, Capt. F. A. Roziene, from time to time — a near estimate being counted upon by the middle of June. Owing to the war and the failure of States to make appropriations, however, I was unable to get a fair estimate until the middle of August for the Northern States, but the attendance from the Southern States was always guesswork. Considering all things, 12,000 was thought 4 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. to be the maximum possible, and this camp was arranged for that number, with canvas to cover 15,000 in the extreme necessity. Appropriations by States were as follows, for transportation and subsistence en route to and from the celebration : California $15, 000 Illinois 40, 000 Iowa 40, 000 Nebraska , 20, 000 New York 1,750 Pennsylvania 10, 500 West Virginia 7, 500 Minnesota 25, 000 Arkansas 5, 000 These appropriations applied to all Civil War veterans. Wiscon- sin made an indefinite appropriation, approximately $25,000, to cover all Vicksburg veterans who wished to go, and the Legislature of Mississippi authorized the city of Vicksburg and Warren County to expend $2,500 each from municipal and county funds for reunion purposes. These sums particularly applied to decorations and city entertainment. 2. PERSONNEL. I reached this city from Nogales, Ariz., on March 26, 1917, and looking into the situation found great difficulty with regard to camp site, the terrain being extremely broken with little level ground any- where. Upon careful survey, however, a place was found where with considerable cutting and filling it appeared that a camp site could be improvised. This was in the Vicksburg National Military Park immediately south of the park spur of the Alabama & Vicks- burg Railway, which company agreed to a grade crossing and promised to put in a 1,000-foot platform for reunion purposes. Upon my personal request, Capt. J. Paul Jones, quartermaster, United States Reserves, was detailed here and joined on Aprial 22. Reconnaissance surveys of three possible sites were made and the above site in the park selected. Most desirable offices were made available in the Federal Building through the courtesy of the local United States civil officials. Offices were also offered by both the Vicksburg Park Commission and the Vicksburg city officials and every assistance given by them toward the purpose in hand. For about a month most of my office work was done through the United States engineer office by the kindness of Col. John R. Slattery, Corps of Engineers, but with the arrival of my efficient clerk, Mr. Ray C. Wilson, on May 3 permanent offices in the Federal building were occupied. The office staff was increased as follows : Capt. Harry Haas, quartermaster, United States Reserves, finance and interior tent arrangements, June 18, 1917, to date. Capt. Millard J. Holmes, quartermaster, United States Reserves, transportation and property, from July 8, 1917, to date. Capt. Louis Kurtz, quartermaster, United States Reserves, mess officer, from September 17, 1917, to November 17, 1917. Q. M. Sergt. John S. Conger, messing arrangements, from July 8 to September 8, 1917, promoted captain, quartermaster, United States Reserves, and ordered away. Q. M. Sergt. P. J. O'Brien, assistant to property officer, from Sep- tember 17, 1917, to September 26, 1917. Promoted captain, quarter- master, United States Reserves, and ordered away. Q. M. Sergt. William H. Gage, assistant to finance officer, from September 17, 1917, to date. Sergt. Ben F. Sparks, Quartermaster Corps, plumber, from July 6, 1917, to date. Lieut. Col. John H. Allen, Medical Corps, sanitary inspector, in conference with officer in charge from July 6 to 8, 1917. Maj. John T. Sprague, Medical Reserve Corps, sanitary inspector, from September 30, 1917, to November 20, 1917. Brig. Gen. Henry H. Whitney, National Army, arrived on October 14 and assumed command of troops at reunion and supervised the military duties in connection therewith until October 20. The following additional officers were detailed on October 3 from the One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry (First Mississippi) which arrived here on October 1 : First Lieut. W. H. Griffith, assistant to quartermaster in charge and aide to commanding general. First Leiut. Arthur J. Dunn, assistant to the quartermaster in charge. First Lieut. D. W. Holmes, in charge of information bureau. First Lieut. C. L. Musselwhite, assistant to officer in charge interior tent arrangements. First Lieut. B. H. Storm, assistant to information officer and aide to general commanding. First Lieut. R. A. Westbrooke, assistant to transportation officer with truck companies. Second Lieut. S. A. Cowart, assistant to mess officer. Second Lieut. H. M. Dent, assistant to transportation officer and in charge of truck companies. Second Lieut. H. C. Hollander, assistant to officer in charge interior tent arrangements. 6 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. Maj. W. C. O'Ferrell, provost marshal. First Lieut. E. N. Coffey, assistant to provost marshal. TROOPS. The One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry (First Mississippi), 1,250 strong, arrived on October 1 from Camp Jackson, Miss., for guard duty and reunion purposes generally, and Field Hospital Company No. 3, United States Army, and Ambulance Company No. 3, United States Army, reached this place October 8. The last two commands left for their proper station, Fort Oglethorpe, Ga., the day following the reunion, after giving entirely satisfactory service here. The One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry remained for guard duty for some time longer, the units of that regiment being sent away separately to other duties from time to time, the final contingent leaving on November 9. This regiment, commanded by Col. George C. Hoskins, deserves special mention because of its general performance of duty here, and particularly of the hearty cooperation of both officers and men with me in the multifarious duties connected with this reunion. 3. CONSTRUCTION. (a) The original camp site was directly east of the famous "Rail- road Redoubt" and the scene of some of the heaviest fighting in the Vicksburg siege, a beautiful, shallow, wooded valley running south from the Alabama & Vicksburg Railway for 2,000 feet to Union Avenue (a park road), from 50 to 90 feet broad, with small valleys to right and left, eight in number, as shown on map marked "A," one being 1,300 feet long, the remainder from 100 to 800 feet in length. In passing Union Avenue the valley gradually broadens to 600 feet for a distanoe of 2,000 feet, the center of which — in fact, the most essential part — was of hillocks 10 to 15 feet high. The southern 1,300 feet was on private property. The topography lent unusual artistic effect to the site, whioh was carefully surveyed, mapped, and designed first to show sufficient Army pyramidal tents to accommo- date from eight to twelve thousand veterans, but later, owing to use of circus tents — Army tents being required for troop mobilization — another map was made, marked "A." Work was started on. camp grounds August 8 and completed Octo- ber 8. (6) A road was first constructed for the entire length of the main valley, along with cutting away hills and filling arroyas throughout the site. This, with the necessary tent ditching later, required in all the movement of about 60,000 cubic yards of earth. We first considered doing this by contract, but after inquiring into cost decided to hire mules and labor and establish a regular work NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 7 camp. It was found we removed this earth at approximately 17$ cents per cubic yard as against 35 and 45 cents asked by contractors. Besides this road, trails were run up each draw. The main road, 15 feet wide, was on west side of valley running from the railroad south, 2,500 feet being graveled with material furnished free of cost by the Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Railroad. Owing to rain — virtual cloudbursts at times — this road had to be carefully constructed, and as such proved invaluable in handling the great amount of tentage and other supplies with trucks. All roads and trails were thoroughly ditched and the complete waterfall taken off by ditches at the toe of the slopes of all hills surrounding the valleys and carried away by a main ditch where possible, but through the most valuable part of site by 12-inch vitrified drainage pipe underground, occasionally placed in pairs. As will be noted on map "A," the roads and paths were named, the main road being Grant Way, with the one in the longer draw called Pemberton Way in honor of the two commanders of the Vicksburg campaign. Paths up the smaller valleys received appro- priate markers as Sherman Way, Lee Way, McClernand Way, Waul Way, McPherson Way, and Pettus Way, while across and just north of the Alabama & Vicksburg Railway, where the hospital units were in camp, was a valley called Ord Valley. All Union corps com- manders as well as most of the distinguished Confederates in the Vicksburg campaign were thus remembered. In addition, the two paths at headquarters on opposite sides of Union Avenue were named Merry Way in honor of Capt. John F. Merry, the father of the park, and Roziene Way in honor of Capt. F. A. Roziene, through whose personal efforts and untiring energy as President of the National Association of Vicksburg Veterans this reunion materialized. (c) The installation of water system was a serious proposition, as the camp was unduly drawn out on account of the topography, and its nearest point being 3,000 feet from city water supply, the price of pipe exorbitant and difficult to secure. However, this difficulty was partially overcome by having this patriotic city loan about 3,500 feet of 4 and 6 inch pipe with fittings, lent by the Vicksburg Gas Co., sufficient to lead the water over the hills into the valley from which a double set of 2$-inch pipe was taken off and laid down the main valley. This last pipe, about 10,000 feet in length, was, to- gether with 2,000 feet of smaller sizes used in the baths and kitchens, borrowed in about equal quantities from the patriotic firms of Pidgeon- Thomas Iron Co., of Memphis, Term., and Woodward- Wight & Co., of New Orleans, La. Mr. W. H. Bruser, of Vicksburg, also loaned 500 feet of 2-inch pipe. I highly commend these firms to the Gov- ernment, as pipe was hard to get and costly when available. The engineer offices at Memphis and Vicksburg, under Col. G. P. Howell, 8 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. Corps Engineers, and Col. John R. Slattery, Corps Engineers, trans- ported about 6,000 feet of this pipe upon their engineering craft from Memphis to Vicksburg. The consideration thus shown by the city ol Vicksburg, the firms and the officers mentioned, saved the Govern- ment much money. Fire hydrants with ample fire hose mostly borrowed from the city were placed every 300 feet; also necessary service fines taken off the main lines for drinking fountains, toilet facilities, and shower baths in the main valley and up each draw, giving at all times an ample supply of water. A pressure of 75 pounds developed at the start of camp with fall throughout the camp neutralizing friction. This city water is rated 99.5 per cent pure. (d) The first idea for messing the veterans was to conform to the plan used at the Gettysburg Reunion in 1913, namely, by having many small kitchens, each accommodating 500 men, with service cafeteria style, the necessary mess kits being supplied by the Government. However, this would have required much trained personnel, espe- cially quartermaster sergeants and army cooks as supplied at Gettys- burg, but which, owing to the war, were not available here. So, after looking into the methods of subsistence at other reunions, I adopted the system of having two large messes, known as "Mess A" and "Mess B," each equipped for cooking for as many as 10,000 men, but owing to the limited area, with tables at each kitchen accommodating only about 2,100 men — separate sittings being provided for. A dia- gram of these kitchens with the facilities therein is marked "B." These frame structures, 24 by 96 feet, were roofed with paulins and unfloored, but the site leveled and covered with sawdust. There were 10 large hotel ranges on one side, together with 10 cooking barrels supplied with free steam and hot water from a 25-horsepower boiler and a 2,200-gallon tank outside. Over these barrels was a trolley with block, pulley, and hook for handling bags of cereals. A double- shelved table 3 feet wide ran almost the entire length ol each kitchen. A 20-foot galvanized-iron trough for washing dishes and six 60- gallon tins for French dripped coffee and tea were placed on the other side of kitchen and piped from the hot-water tank outside. Among the tables as shown in kitchen diagram was what is known as a bain marie (steam table), provided with steam pipes to keep the food cut up in the kitchen and brought here in containers, hot at all times, for service at different sittings. All veterans located north of Union Avenue (park road) were no- tified that they would be subsisted at "Mess A," shown on map, and those below Union Avenue were informed of their meals being served exclusively at "Mess B." Large paulins were available to cover seats and tables for several hundred immediately next to each kitchen, with additional service of meals anticipated in the kitchens themselves and in large tents nearby in case of bad weather. NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 9 (e) A series of latrines and shower baths was. put in. These latrines were covered but unfloored, and as far as the seats were con- cerned, fly proof, each seat being double with a three-board partition between series of holes and each hole having hinged lid. The seat it- self, as well as the lid, was fly proof around its bearings. The bath- houses were floored but uncovered and built with improvised shower heads made from ordinary flower-pot heads soldered on f-inch nip- ples. This makes an excellent cheap shower head. The floors of these bathhouses were partially carpeted with strips of condemned canvas. (/) A natural amphitheater was found near the center of these grounds where a platform 40 by 170 feet was built with benches ex- tending up the hillsides, and in all accommodating as many as 5,000 seated and 3,000 standing within earshot of the human voice. (g) Great attention was paid to marking all roads and paths plainly as well as to numbering all tents, with full names at the Offices of the Commanding General, Bureau of Information, Quarter- master, Provost Marshal, Scout Master, President of the Veterans' Association, Chairman of Park Commission, and Headquarters of all States represented here. These signs were conspicuously exposed at appropriate places. Also, as stated, numbered tags were nailed to the foot of cots, and in the larger tents aisle limit numbers of cots were placed on wires overhead to avoid mistaking location of cots. In addition, many large signs, some 1 yard square, were placed at the extremely dangerous curves in the park roads within a mile or so of the camp to avoid automobile accidents, and, happily, they served their purpose. (h) As far as possible the cheapest character of lumber available was used for all wooden construction; this office being able to pur- chase about 150,000 feet of pecky cypress at prices ranging from $17 tp $20 per 1,000 feet, whereas pine, generally used in temporary shelter, would have cost from $28 to $32 per 1,000 feet. The salvage on this lumber will be material and shown on the financial statement. (i) All this construction, including pitching of tents and lighting installation, was under Capt. J. Paul Jones, quartermaster reserves, whose work here has been of a high order, demonstrating not only his fine engineering ability but his initiative and loyalty. He has been my chief assistant, and to him should be accredited a great part of any success obtained. In addition to his construction duties, Capt. Jones handled the transportation of veterans to and from the depots with the gratifying results noted elsewhere. 4. TENT AGE. As noted Army pyramidal tents were drawn in upon the first design; but, owing to the uncertainty of their supply due to the great troop mobilization, I considered it necessary to take no chances, 34002°— H. Doc. 754, 65-2 2 10 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. and made a trip, to Chicago to hire tentage and was successful in getting about 375,000 square feet of spread of canvas, while from Kansas City I secured by correspondence about 30,000 square feet more, which, with the 100 small tents from the depot quartermaster at St. Louis, made over 425,000 square feet in all, or enough, at the ratio of 30 square feet to the man, to accommodate over 14,000 veterans. In this connection it is interesting to note that this is the first great reunion where tentage of this character was provided — one tent alone covering nearly 48,000 square feet and being capable of ac- commodating 1,500 men. This tent was situated at the center of the camp, with others of unusual magnitude around it. It can be readily appreciated what a wonderful canvas city was here erected. In fact, I was told by the United States Tent & Awning Co., of Chicago, which supplied most of the tentage, that this was one of the greatest spreads of big canvas ever pitched. These tents were erected with negro labor by four expert "big canvas men," secured in Chicago for the purpose. Such a spread of canvas greatly increased the capacity of the limited area at hand and also concentrated the veter- ans and gave better service every way and lent an unusual attraction to their reunion by enabling them to get together at all times by night as well as by day. In this connection reference is made to panoramic views marked "O" and "T>," and to the map A. 5. LIGHTING. As for tents of such magnitude candles and lanterns were con- sidered dangerous, so an electric lighting system was installed under contract by the Vicksburg Light & Traction Co. Regular 80-candle- power series street lamps were placed 150 feet apart and the tents lighted with 40 and 60 candlepower lamps. Each tent, except the small ones which were equipped with individual bulbs, had a switch to be thrown at a certain hour or whenever necessary later by attendants. A series of 600 bulbs in oriental lanterns was strung over the amphitheater in horseshoe fashion, which, together with the flags of our Allies in a flood of light, made this central gathering point beautiful and attractive. Just over the speaker's rostrum hung the United States and the Confederate flags. The Vicksburg Light & Traction Co., first represented by General Manager O. H. Simonds and later by General Manager E. S. Myers, displayed great personal interest in the installation of this lighting system and in its operation, and especial thanks are due them for the results obtained. 6. TENT ACCOMMODATIONS. All tents were provided with cots, filled bed sacks, pillows with pillow slips, and two comforters for each cot, and I have yet to learn NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 11 of any veteran who was not fully satisfied with his sleeping accom- modations. At least 35 square feet was allowed to each man, par- ticularly in the large tent, of over 45,000 square feet, where only 1,300 cots were placed with a wide lane running the full length of the tent and alleys to sides. Around the interior of these tents ropes were strung provided with improvised wire hooks as clothes hangers, ample in number, and on the larger uprights in the center line of the tents were nailed small stands with cheap mirrors and combs for personal toilet. Larger galvanized cans were placed in tents each night and removed in the morning, so that I believe no veteran, except in emergency, was required to leave his tent. Outside of the tents, ample hand basins in stands with running water were provided and each veteran daily issued towels for wash- ing and as many more for bathing as desired. One hundred and fifty sheet-iron charcoal braziers, commercially called " salamanders, " were available for the tents of any size in anticipation of cold weather. These proved very acceptable the last two nights and day. They were handled by negro laborers, the charcoal first being lit outside and noxious fumes driven off. As a precaution against fire, each of the larger tents was provided with Pyrene fire extinguishers furnished free by the Pyrene Manu- facturing Co., of New York. As in the case of other generous firms, I wish to commend this one to the consideration of the Government. All necessary equipage other than the above-mentioned tentage, etc., was supplied by the Quartermaster Corps and arrived in ample time for use at this reunion. Property report will give exact figures. Capt. Harry Haas, quartermaster reserves, had this duty in hand and deserves the greatest credit for his attention in looking after the minutest details connected with this important feature of the encampment. 7. TRANSPORTATION. (a) Motor vehicles. — Owing to distance between city office and camp, it was necessary for this office to have an automobile and a machine was purchased in April. Later, when the work became greater, another automobile, in this instance a second-hand machine, was bought, and several autos were hired at time of reunion. Five 1^-ton Packard trucks were supplied in July and did good work, although their maintenance was costly to this appropriation because of former hard service. For a long time the supply of truck s to handle veterans from trains as well as throughout this park of 32 miles of roads was in doubt, but after insistent requests by letter and wire, sixty l$-ton Packard trucks without personnel were received here October 8. In the meanwhile I made a trip to Jackson and Camp Shelby, Miss., to get drivers and was gratified that Col. George C. Hoskins, of the One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry (First Mis- 12 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBKATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. sissippi), and Gen. E. A. Lewis, commanding Camp Shelby, were willing to cooperate in allowing soldiers to volunteer as drivers, the idea being for them to try out on the five trucks already here. The full number (60) of drivers was found in the One hundred and fifty- fifth Infantry, however, later ordered here, arriving on October 1, and when the 60 trucks from Fort Sam Houston came on October 8 these men were capable of handling them satisfactorily. The value of these trucks was inestimable; in fact, without the trucks the reunion could not possibly have been a success, as no other transportation was available for hire to the extent found necessary. This was particularly true with regard to transporting veterans to and from the city depots, not only from regular trains but from many solid trains which could not be brought to the platform at the camp. Also the several dedications, miles from the camp itself, re- quired the use of these trucks, as well as did the extreme desire on the part of the veterans to visit all parts of the battle field and the National Cemetery, over 6 miles away. For this purpose all tracks were equipped with adjustable seats, each one accommodating 20. Nothing was more appreciated by the veterans than the manner in which they were permitted to roam over the park and the city in these conveyances, nor did time and distance count for a great many who seemed to enjoy the ride, often returning in the same truck that took them to town and occasionally making the round trip more than once. Requests were made for transportation as early as 5 a. m., apparently to catch the full benefit of the fresh morning air. It can be well understood that these trucks were overworked, with thousands of veterans always itching for a ride around the park, and besides there were considerable supplies to be hauled. We could have used 100 more to advantage, but those supplied just about an- swered the minimum need and served to keep the veterans happy. Sixty-five trucks were received, but no extra parts, and it was ap- parent that they had been hard used. It is understood most, if not all, had seen service in Mexico, but through the untiring energy of Lieut. Dent, the officer in charge of trucks, assisted by Mr. Shalley, an agent sent by the Packard Co., 63 of them were kept in com- mission during the reunion. I consider this notable with improvised personnel. Anticipating need of extra parts, we had the local agency lay in a supply by express. This provided our salvation. To show the satisfactory operation of trucks, I quote excerpts of letters from Col. A. H. Egan, general superintendent, and Mr. G. H. Bower, general passenger agent, of the Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Railroad, over which fine special trains arrived which had to be handled at city depot: I can not leave here to-day without expressing to you the satisfaction felt with the manner in which the travel to this reunion was handled from our railroad to the NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 13 camp site. The most critical mind could not discover any flaws in it. You and your staff are to be congratulated, not only for the manner in which the veterans were handled, but also with the painstaking care and the arrangements perfected for their convenience. I hear nothing on all sides but expressions of commendation from the people who were your guests during this week. (Signed) A. H. Egan. We certainly owe you many many thanks for the splendid assistance you gave us, and I want to congratulate you on the prompt and efficient way in which the veterans were handled between our station and the camp. (Signed) G. H. Bower. In this connection it may be mentioned that the motorized ambu- lances of Ambulance Company No. 3 served the same purpose to a limited extent, particularly to go to distant battle fields outside of the park as far south as Port Gibson, 30 miles away. (b) Railroads.— The railroads (A. & V., Y. & M. V., and I. C.) gave full satisfaction, cooperating with me in every respect possible. In two instances only were tickets lost, and in each case the railroads took care of the men. As stated above, the Alabama & Vicksburg Railway built a large and excellent platform at the camp spur and furnished service there for all trains, bells, telephone, telegraph, etc., while the Yazoo & Mississippi Valley and the Illinois Central were assigned a tent at the camp which they provided with passenger and Pullman agents for handling passengers on their roads. The PuLman man, of course, applied equally to the Alabama & Vicksburg road. The agents of these lines were active, most accommodating, and efficient. I quote from letter of Mr. C. F. Woods, general passenger agent of the Alabama & Vicksburg Railway Co., in reference to the gen- eral cooperation and satisfaction that company found in its rela- tions with this office: I have attended a great many Confederate reunions during the past 15 years and can frankly say to you that I heard more complimentary remarks from the Confederate veterans and G. A. R. soldiers than ever before. Furthermore, each one of the old soldiers seemed to think that some special arrangement had been provided for him and I did not hear of a single complaint from any one. I wish to thank you in behalf of the passenger traffic department of the Alabama & Vicksburg Railway for the many courtesies extended our representatives at the reunion; also for other favors that you accorded us since your arrival at Vicksburg. In so far as I know, our business relations have been most cordial. The shipment of tentage cars from Chicago and Kansas City was a matter of crucial importance because it was ill advised to hire such tentage a long time ahead of the reunion on account of the expense attached, and no shipment was made until about September 15. These tents were chiefly from Chicago, but in some instances were made from as far north as Saginaw, Mich., and west from Kansas City, Mo. In view of the great congestion of freight at this period, 14 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. I viewed the supply of this part of the camp equipage with anxiety, but the quartermasters at Kansas City, St. Louis, and particularly Chicago, together with the passenger traffic manager of the Illinois Central Railroad at Chicago, cooperated with me so fully in rush- ing cars through that most of the tentage came in record time, only two or three cars which were really unnecessary but provided in case of an overflow, being delayed for a day or two. Owing to the fine service of the railroads and the United States Tent & Awning Co., of Chicago, all tentage arrived in time to be pitched for the occasion and was actually on the ground and this camp prepared on the 13th day of October to accommodate 12,000 men, with an elastic limit of 15,000 in the emergency. Transportation and property were under the charge of Capt. Mil- lard J. Holmes, quartermaster reserves, who gave it his untiring at- tention and best efforts. Capt. Holmes and his assistants have abored loyally and efficiently and deserve commendation for their good work. 8. MESSING. (a) As heretofore noted there were two kitchens with tables ac- commodating at least 4,000 at a sitting, which in an hour and a half at the most should meet the requirements of 12,000 men, the limit ex- pected. The arrangement of kitchens and tables proved to be espe- cially advantageous for serving the veterans to their general satis- faction. I may mention that not one complaint of food was registered at my office nor did I hear or see more than two or three men who had not received everything they could reasonably expect, as shown on menu issued to all veterans (marked "E"). Unfortunately, some trainloads arrived after mealtime. As it was assumed they had eaten aboard trains, they were served only hot coffee and sandwiches as soon as possible. The menu was practically carried out with the exception of milk, which, due to hot weather, mostly soured in the long shipment from New Orleans. This was not available here ex- cept in quantities sufficient only for cereals, coffee, and tea. Whenever requested sandwiches and hot coffee were provided for departing veterans who did not have dining cars available between camp and their homes. (6) Bids for food supplies were opened September 5 with the con- dition of a minimum of 8,000 and a maximum of 12,000 men, there being ample quantity in the city warehouses in case of the number running as high as fifteen or twenty thousand. Inquiry was made of the quartermasters at New Orleans, Chicago, and St. Louis for prices of all articles so that we could if necessary supply ourselves from these depots. The firms were advised of this fact and made their NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 15 prices in some instances less and hardly ever greater than at the depots themselves, inclusive of freight to this point. They showed great consideration and lent every facility in supplying everything we needed with the exception of milk and fish. The stores proved satisfactory and the spur at the camp enabled us to have two cold- storage cars where all perishable articles were kept and taken out as needed. Each kitchen had a large ice box for those supplies im- mediately required. Butchers were employed in camp for cutting up meat, of which only the best was served. It had been hoped that a few units of a bakery company would be here, but these not being available, we were enabled to make the necessary arrangements for all bread directly from firms here at rea- sonable prices and baked as needed. "Absolutely no tipping" signs were exposed. (a) The personnel of the kitchens consisted of 2 chefs, 9 day cooks, 8 night cooks, 2 butchers, 11 head waiters, and 136 regular waiters, including a number of soldiers from the One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry who kindly volunteered to assist us in this matter, sufficient waiters not being available here nor anywhere else within a reason- able distance. These chefs, day cooks, and head waiters were white men from New Orleans, mostly supplied by the courtesy of the man- aging steward of the Grunewald Hotel, of New Orleans — Mr. Theo- dore De Witt — to whom we are under many obligations. The night cooks and the waiters were procured from the immediate vicinity and were chiefly colored laborers employed by us on construction work since August. Every negro in the houth seems to have been a waiter at some time in his career, and in this instance his experience proved valuable and effected a great saving in transportation. (d) Special tables (as well as a special tent) were provided all colored veterans, of whom there were about 100 present, and instruc- tions issued that they receive particular attention in every way. In fact a local colored preacher took charge of them at my request, and I have received every evidence that this solicitude for their com- fort and happiness was highly appreciated by each of them. (e) The nearest estimate I can place upon the meals served vet- erans at any time is 7,500, which I believe to be the greatest attend- ance of any one day — October 17. (/) This department of the reunion was under the charge of Capt. Louis Kurtz, Quartermaster reserves, who, with limited qualified assistants and no regular quartermaster sergeants or Army cooks, handled this department in a creditable manner, although the tem- porary personnel of kitchens could not possibly have the necessary teamwork for the best service. His chief assistant was Mr. E. R. Weidig, of New Orleans, to whom we are indebted for most of the ideas in establishing and operating these kitchens, and for his untir- 16 NATIONAL. MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. ing energy on our behalf in selecting and economically providing for the many special supplies needed through the firm of A. Bald- win & Co. (Ltd.), as well as for their quick dispatch from New Orleans. 9. SANITATION AND HOSPITAL FACILITIES. This subject was first taken up in July, when Lieut. Col. John H. Allen, Medical Corps, first detailed as sanitary inspector, arrived here for conference, and it was decided that at least one field hospital and one ambulance company would be required. These were ulti- mately supplied, arriving here on the 8th of October and leaving the day after the reunion. The matter of camp sanitation itself received the careful attention of the superintendent of construction, all water as heretofore noted being carried off by main ditches, each tent being fully ditched. Since latrines were to be used for only four days, open holes 6 feet deep were considered satisfactory by Lieut. Col. Allen as well as by the later sanitary inspector, Maj. John T. Sprague. These latrines were supplied with ample lime, besides being burned out daily with crude oil. Negro sanitation squads, together with de- tails from Field Hospital Company No. 3 and Ambulance Company No. 3, under charge of Maj. Sprague, were on duty at all necessary places. Emergency stations with ready motor ambulances were located at convenient points around the camp as well as on the park roads and small details assigned to the different tents for duty, par- ticularly at night, so that immediate attention was given whenever needed. The subject of city hospital beds was first taken up by Col. Allen and later arranged for by Maj. Sprague, with the result that at least 150 beds were made available in city hospitals for old veter- ans, but in only 42 cases were these beds needed and then only for a day or two, except for one veteran who was in the city hospital for about three weeks from a fractured hip received by falling on the streets of Vicksburg either just before or during the reunion, but this accident was not reported to this office until 10 days thereafter. The medical attention required by the veterans during the reunion proper was inconsequential, the weather being perfect, three days balmy and the last day cool. No accident of a serious nature occurred at the camp. The field hospital was fairly busy, and served its purpose admirably and, in connection with the motor ambulance company, cared for a number of veterans overcome by fatigue and suffering from minor ailments. There were only two cases of drunkenness and these of men upon arrival, who were immediately sent to the field hospital and by the next morning had fully recovered from the convivialty of their trip. It may here be mentioned that at my request, through the Vicks- burg City Commission, the Louisiana liquor dealers across the Mis- NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 17 sissippi within accessible distance kindly agreed to sell no bottled goods from the day before the reunion until its close. This precau- tion, together with virtual absence of illicit liquor in that section, eliminated the possibility of a few in the big tents disturbing many. One old fellow of about 80 took personal exception to this regulation, but otherwise it met general approval and gave satisfactory results. The medical and sanitary arrangements were under Maj. John T. Sprague, Medical Reserve Corps, whose attention to details and con- sideration of all matters of this character contributing to the safety and comfort of the veterans gave fine results and deserve my especial commendation. 10. FINANCE. For two months after my arrival this division of my office was handled by myself — little business being done, however. It was transferred to Capt. Harry Haas upon his arrival in July, who has since been enabled with a small clerical force to transact all business with dispatch, including the payment of all troops here as well as payment for their supplies. This department has been a source of satisfaction to me, and Capt. Haas and his assistants deserve the warmest commendation for their untiring efforts, frequently having to work over hours and on Sundays. A full financial report will be submitted as soon as possible. 11. PROVOST GUARD. The provost guard composed of a major with lieutenant assistant named above and 50 enlisted men of the One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry was located near headquarters and acted as policemen rather than sentinels, carrying clubs. There were no regulations posted and only common sense demanded of the provost guard in handling old veterans. They were instructed to show every con- sideration to the veterans, denying them nothing, but helping them in doing everything they wished within reason. Even smoking in tents at any time day or night was allowed; to avoid fire, however, buckets of water were placed in the tents in addition to having the general fire-protection facilities outside. As will be noted by the resolutions attached the provost guard, as well as the Boy Scouts, gave the veterans the kindest and utmost attention. The men from the One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry reflected particular credit upon their command, not one imposition occurring nor, in fact, the slightest complaint being reported to my office against the action of any one of this guard nor against any Boy Scout or others con necte with my staff. The services of the provost marshal, Maj. W. C. O'Ferrell, and his assistant, Lieut. E. N. Coffey, were entirely satisfactory, and they are commended accordingly. 34002°— H. Doc. 754, 65-2 3 18 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 12. BOY SCOUTS. Boy Scouts, about 200 in number, lived in camp. One-half of them were from Vicksburg and the remainder from Magnolia, Meridian, Clarksdale, Edwards, and Jackson, Miss. All were under the command of the Vicksburg Scoutmaster, Mr. Harry Priestly, and were invaluable in many ways, particularly as messengers and in looking after the comfort of the veterans generally. They behaved perfectly and were a source of great pride to us as well as the veterans and visitors in general. 13. INFORMATION BUREAU. An information bureau was established at the most prominent part of the camp. This was equipped with the necessary personnel, including officers named above and a number of soldiers who volun- teered as clerks from the One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry. It was provided with all necessary books and cards for the registration of veterans, as well as maps, railroad schedules, etc. The registration was given especial attention and although not fully successful a registry was made and turned over to the National Association of Vicksburg Veterans and will be a matter of important record to them. If the veterans came individually, each would have a card made out showing name, home address, organization, and mess — being assigned a tent and cot number. A copy of this card was filed at the informa- tion bureau and one issued to the veteran. He would then be turned over to a boy scout to direct him to his tent and cot and show him the toilet facilities, baths, latrines, etc. When veterans came in solid trains they would be taken directly to their tents, assigned cots, and as far as possible made to sit on them until numerous boy scouts and soldiers of the provost guard and information bureau could make out cards for each one, in each case leaving a card with the veteran and taking one to the information bureau. This was not wholly success- ful; in fact, a full register seemed impossible in the crush of work. From the cards as made out, which show something less than 6,000 registered, the names were transcribed to a book, tabulated by States, alphabetically, and turned over to the Veterans' Association. I estimate 7,500 veterans were present on October 17. This bureau was under Lieuts. D. W. Holmes, A. J. Dunn, and W. H. Griffith, of the One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry (First Mississippi), whose untiring efforts, attention, and kindness to the veterans deserve especial mention. The work of these officers, to- gether with that of their soldier assistants, was at times very fa- tiguing, but never did the veterans receive any but the highest form of courtesy from them. They also had much to do with the satisfactory operation of the trucks, as from this office many instructions were sent with reference to transportation. NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 19 These veterans hailed for the most part from the following Slates: Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota. Indiana, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, California, Michigan, Kansas, Pennsylvania, Missouri, West Virginia, Xew York, and Florida. Other States, par- ticularly Oklahoma, Texas, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Kentueky and Virginia, were represented with a considerable number of veter- ans from other parts of the Union. 14. MUSIC. Tins was furnished by the excellent band of the One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry and a famous orchestra called "Big Six," of Greenville, Miss., composed of negroes, who also served as waiters when necessary. They were kept almost constantly engaged and their music was keenly enjoyed by the veterans, who were entertained at meals by the orchestra with song and instrumental music and at their ceremonies by the band. Both organizations played at the veterans' amphitheater at night, and at all times cheerfully gave their best efforts to entertaining the veterans, playing any and all airs they desired. The colored orchestra was especially interesting, to the northern visitors, with their negro melodies in which they excel. This musical feature of the reunion added much to the joy of the occasion, particularly when old vets would join in the dancing at the amphitheater and give some of their ancient stunts to the delight of the crowd. The public nightly engaged in dancing, which started after the evening ceremonies and lasted until about 11 o'clock. 15. SPECIAL FEATURE S. (a) A 60-foot flagstaff was erected near headquarters with a garri- son flag flying in sight of nearly the whole camp. (b) The post-office officials were given a tent in the camp which they fitted up as a substation and put mail boxes around the grounds ; mail was handled as expenditiously as in the city. This feature gave special satisfaction and was most creditable to the postmaster, Mr. H. H. Mackey, and his assistants. (c) Telephones, both local (free) and long distance, were provided in ample numbers for the public, while all offices were supplied with local telephones. (d) There was a free shaving shop "for veterans only," operated by 12 barbei*s continually in action from 6 to 6. "Absolutely No Tipping" signs were exposed. They did some fine execution upon beards long untouched. (e) A women's rest room was located near center of camp. (/) Free parcel checking room with "lost and found" bureau was provided and well patronized. 20 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. (g) Weather Bureau flags were exposed on post office, also weather reports. (h) One-way traffic was maintained at all times with proper signs at all crossings; no auto accidents occured. (i) Eight regular city firemen under their chief were present at all times and gave a great sense of security. (j) A linen tent was centrally located and towels distributed there- from and more supplied as needed. (k) A tent with tables and a reasonable amount of writing mate- rials was provided near center of camp. (I) In front of the veterans' amphitheater was constructed a movie screen for announcements as well as nightly amusements. This was chiefly paid for by the city of Vicksburg. (m) Drinking fountains were provided about the camp, particu- larly near the center and were in continual use. The weather was so warm, however, that cans of water with cups had to be furnished in addition for drinking purposes. (n) Photographers and several representatives of moving-picture concerns were on the grounds and took many pictures of the scenes, the favorite poses being Blue and Gray veterans arm-in-arm or with a young soldier in khaki between them. (o) A battery of artillery was applied for, but that not being avail- able, I secured one 2.95-inch mountain gun which with an improvised gun squad from the One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry gave fine service, not only at reveille and retreat, but also fired most creditable salutes at all ceremonies. Reveille was celebrated each morning by the One hundred and fifty-fifth Infantry band marching the entire length of camp playing patriotic airs — occasionally preceded by the Minnesota Veteran Drum and Fife Corps. This aroused the veterans rapidly and no trouble whatever was found in their early attendance at breakfast. 16. GENERAL. (a) The program of exercises (marked "F") was prepared by the National Association of Vicksburg Veterans and carried out as far as possible under the direction of the commanding general in ac- cordance with their wishes. The flag was raised on the. morning of October 16 at the dedicatory ceremonies and a 21-gun salute fired. This was in the presence of the President of the National Association of Vicksburg Veterans, the Commanding General, the Chairman of the Vicksburg National Mili- tary Park Commission, and thousands of veterans cf Blue and Gray and many visitors. Similar ceremony was conducted on the evening of October 19 when the flag was hauled down to the salute of 21 guns. NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 21 As shown on the program, there were dedications of the New York Monument, the Missouri Monument, and the special occasion of the United States Navy Memorial Shaft, at which the presence of the Secretary of the Navy was hoped for and expected but who being unable to attend sent an eloquent and appropriate letter to be read upon the occasion and was personally represented by the Hon. W. Webb Venable, Member of Congress from Mississippi, and member of Committee on Naval Affairs. These events were particularly felicitous and carried out without a hitch, trucks being used to con- vey the veterans to and from the ceremonies. The parade through the city of Vicksburg on the morning of the 18th was considered a great success. All the troops and Boy Scouts were in line, with the Federal, county, and city officials of Vicks- burg and Jackson, Miss., on foot, followed by many decorated auto- mobiles with the Vicksburg "Camp Fire Girls" and veterans in trucks, 60 being in line and jammed to the limit. Special trucks were provided for the colored veterans. Also many veterans were in automobiles, so that practically all who wished to attend were in the parade while a great many were on the streets who had preferred to come to town early. About 100 declined to ride and marched the entire distance of 2 miles. The streets of Vicksburg were beautifully decorated; particularly notable were the pictures of Abraham Lincoln, and U. S. Grant be- side those of Jefferson Davis and Robert E. Lee. This was particu- larly commented upon by the veterans from the North and South as a significant feature of the reunion. A particularly pleasing incident (not on the program) occurred when on the night of the 17th the Blue veterans formed into a body and marched to Pemberton Way for a love feast with the veterans in Gray. It was upon this occasion that they sent the wire to the President wherein his war policy was heartily approved, and their support and services unanimously offered in any capacity that the situation might require. (See Exhibit "G.") (&) Demolition is now complete and a full financial statement will be submitted as soon as practicable, it being at present impossible to prepare without the data pertaining to charges against this office for transportation and deterioration of Government supplies. How- ever, at this time it is confidently predicted that at least $35,000 will be returned to the United States Treasury after all expenses have been paid. Out of this it is recommended that action, possibly by way of congressional resolution, be approved for $3,000 of tins money to be applied to cover partial expenses contracted out of his private purse by the President of the National Association of Vicksburg Veterans, Capt. F. A. Roziene, in his four years of continued and assiduous efforts to bring about this celebration of which he was the 22 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. chief author and which was so thoroughly enjoyed by thousands of veterans of the Blue and Gray. (See resolutions of the Veterans Association, Exhibit "G.") It has been suggested and will be strongly urged by the National Association of Vicksburg Veterans by congressional resolution that the remaining money be applied to the erection of an arch at the main entrance to the Vicksburg National Military Park, not only as a memorial to. those who died in battle here but particularly to mark the complete reconciliation of their living comrades at this reunion over 50 years later. I understand that the famous architect, Mr. Thomas Hastings, of New York, and the eminent sculptor, Mr. F. Edwin Elwell, are now collaborating gratuitously on its design. (c) It may be remarked that throughout this celebration the city of Vicksburg extended the veterans that courtesy and hospitality for which the South is noted. Innumerable expressions of their appre- ciation from veterans of the North particularly have reached this office in the form of letters and resolutions showing that this reunion was a reunion indeed in every sense of the word. Copies of the resolu- tions passed by the various veterans' associations are included in this report and marked "G." These show their grateful acknowledgment for the facilities provided them by their Government as well as for the treatment accorded them by the citizens of Vicksburg. In some instances these resolutions appear rather personal, but, of course, apply to my office as a whole and not to myself, and are offered solely as such. (d) This office was fortunate in having the full support and co- operation of our superiors in this work, and the confidence and lati- tude given us have properly encouraged us to our best efforts, and it is a source of individual gratification to us all that this celebration has been considered such a success. Personally, we took the greatest pride in acting as hosts for the United States Government at this reunion of Blue and Gray, our relations with the veterans being particularly felicitous in giving us the opportunity to honor the survivors of the Civil War. For several months prior to this reunion suggestions were con- stantly made that it be called off because of our present great struggle and that the appropriation be applied elsewhere, but with the event over and its effects noted no one can deny that it increased the patri- otic spirit, now particularly needed and more precious than money, and that it contributed materially toward cementing widely sep- arated sections of our country in a common cause. This view was taken by Senator John Sharp Williams in his speech upon this occasion, who in fact pronounced the time peculiarly appropriate for such a celebration. (e) I append copies of letters (marked exhibit "H,") from the Chairman of the Vicksburg National Military Park Commission, NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 23 the mayor and the postmaster of the City of Yicksburg, and Mr. S. G. Hatch, passenger traffic manager of the Illinois Central Rail- road, to show the general opinion of the reunion, and I take occasion to express my high appreciation of the great assistance and coopera- tion given by each of these gentlemen toward its success. (/) The veterans commenced to leave late on the night of October 18, and continued until midday of the 20th. at which time all were out of the camp grounds and demolition of the camp facilities com- menced. All veterans were entrained expeditiously and at the proper time, and as far as I am able to ascertain no fatiguing delays occurred; nothing in fact to mar their departure, which was as successfully handled as their arrival. The splendid development of this battle field under Capt. William T. Rigby, the Chairman of the Park Commission, had enabled them to find all their battle lines and the various positions occupied by them during their services here in 1863. This was made possible by over 30 miles of gravel roads throughout the area of siege operations, dotted with numerous monuments, statues, and busts, and with markers everywhere showing the complete military situation as it existed in the Siege of Vicksburg. Their reunion is now only a memory, but they could not have en- camped on more beautiful historic ground nor in a place they could have taken greater pride and delight. They looked upon this Park as their own and loved it as sacred soil; and to them it will remain, in keeping with their brave, loyal old spirits and declining years, a vision of rugged autumn beauty, and for them hereafter hold a double significance as a spot where once they struggled in bitter strife, but where they again met over half a century later in the brotherly love of restored confidence and in complete reunion under their original flag. WlLLARD D. NEWBILL, Colonel, Field Artillery, Quartermaster Corps, U. S. Army, in Charge of Arrangements. EXHIBITS. 25 NATWNAL MEMORIAL z n O O o ^ w ID 3 n "O (T !2 03 < Ul o >o s- cr O S hi iU %".* >> u. TO QJ Tj ^ ? a> 03 LI <• * (U z W U o < a o •GO c z a: o o u Exhibit A. Exhibit "A" is map of the camp site. Exhibit B. Exhibit "B" is a diagram of kitchen. Exhibits C and D. Exhibits "C" and "D" are pictures of "Mess A" and "Mess B." Exhibit E. (issued to each veteran.) This "National Memorial Celebration and Peace Jubilee" is held under the direction of the Secretary of War, the Hon. Newton D. Baker, in accordance with act of Congress, approved by President Woodrow Wilson, September 8, 1916, "In commemoration of a half century of peace and good fellowship which happily exists through- out the Republic." Brig. Gen. Henry H. Whitney, National Army, commanding during reunion. Col. Willard D. Newbill (Field Artillery), Quartermaster Corps, United States Army, in charge of arrangements. ASSISTANTS. Capt. J. Paul Jones, quartermaster, United States Reserves, construction. Capt. Harry Haas, quartermaster, United States Reserves, finance. Capt. Millard J. Holmes, quartermaster, United States Reserves, transportation and property. Capt. Louis Kurtz, quartermaster, United States Reserves, subsistence. The National Association of Vicksburg Veterans (Capt. F. A. Roziene, president), in charge of order of exercises. Menu. tuesday, october 16, 1917. Breakfast. — Prunes, corn flakes and milk, scrambled eggs with chopped bacon, bread, butter, sirup, coffee or tea. Dinner. — Prunes, roast beef, gravy, mashed potatoes, baked apples and sauce, rice, bread, butter, sirup, coffee or tea. Supper. — Prunes, baked pork and beans, corn bread, boiled rice, gravy, "Old Dixie sweets," butter, sirup, coffee, tea, or milk. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17, 1917. Breakfast. — Fresh fruit, prunes, puffed wheat and milk, pork sausage, gravy, bread, butter, sirup, coffee or bea. 27 28 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION" AND PEACE JUBILEE. Dinner. — Primes, roast pork and gravy, baked sweet potatoes, green peas, apple pie, bread, butter, sirup, coffee, tea, or milk. Supper. — Macaroni and cheese, prunes, "Old Dixie sweets," bread, butter, sirup, coffee, tea, or milk. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 1917. Breakfast. — Prunes, cereal and milk, liver and bacon, gravy, bread, butter, sirup, coffee or tea. Dinner. — Prunes, roast mutton, baked potatoes, gravy, corn, bread pudding, bread, butter, sirup, coffee or tea. Supper. — Prunes, baked pork and beans, corn bread, boiled rice and gravy, but- ter, "Old Dixie sweets," sirup, coffee, tea, or milk. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19, 1917. Breakfast. — Prunes, fresh fruit, oatmeal and milk, scrambled eggs, bread, butter, sirup, coffee or tea. Dinner. — Prunes, baked fish, candied sweet potatoes, rice pudding, gravy, bread, butter, sirup, coffee or tea. Supper. — Prunes, egg omelet, apple pie, "Old Dixie sweets," bread, butter, sirup, coffee, tea, or milk. THE VICKSBURG NATIONAL MILITARY PARK Commemorates the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg in 1863, and includes nearly all the fighting ground of the siege and defense operations from May 18 to July 4. They consisted of two unsuccessful assaults by the Union Army, May 19 and 22, the siege operations of that army, beginning May 23, and the heroic defense of the Confederate army under Gen. Pemberton. The record of the marches, battles, and casualties of the two armies from March 29 to the beginning of the investment of Vicksburg, May 18, of the Confederate army assembled after May 14, with headquar- ters at Jackson and under Gen. Johnston, and of the part of Grant's army that was not engaged in the siege, is given on historical tablets. The siege and defense operations are commemorated in the same way, also by position tablets and markers, and give a distinctive character to the park work. The main part of the battle field is bounded on the inside by Confederate Avenue, closely following the Confederate line of defense (trench), and on the outside by Union Avenue, closely following the first parallel (trench) of the Union Army. The deployment of each of the two opposed armies is shown on its avenue by tablets and monuments that record its organization and tell the story of its operations. In each case, just in rear of the battle line and on the opposite side of the avenue, are the bronze portraits of the brigade and division commanders. Hence, in a very literal sense, the battle is set in order anew and its details can be intelli- gently studied. NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. , 29 The story of conflict and casualties, recorded in bronze, granite, and iron, is illustrated by memorial portraits in bronze of the officers under whose direction the operations were carried on (104 Union, 58 Confederate), 115 by United States, 34 as gifts, and 13 by States (2 equestrian statues, 12 statues, 56 busts, 92 tablets). All desired portraits of brigade and division commanders have been secured; in each of two cases (Brig. Gen. Lloyd Tilghman and Maj. J. H. For- ney, Confederate States Army) statue is promised as a gift. Three portraits of Union corps commanders have been secured, two by United States (Ord, Washburn) and one by Illinois (McClernand) ; three portraits of these commanders are required and are expected from States — from Ohio two (McPherson, Sherman) and from Pennsylvania one (Parke). Two portraits of army commanders have been secured, one (Confederate) by United States (Pemberton) and one (Union) by Illinois (Grant) ; one such portrait (Confederate) is expected from Virginia (Johnston). Portraits have been secured of officers other than brigade, division, corps, and army commanders, largely as gifts to the park. STATEMENT OF THE CONDITION OF THE PARK OCTOBER 15, 1917. Area, 1,322.63 acres. Miles of roadway, including 16 bridges, 31.86. Number of guns mounted, 128. Number of tablets and guideboards in place, 1,020. Number of memorials, monuments, and markers in place or ordered, 660. Total of appropriations: By United States, $1,454,200; by 14 States, $872,931. Aggregate cost of gifts to the park, $72,728.30. Number of States from each of which an appropriation is desired, 16 (Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Ken- tucky, Louisiana, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Caro- lina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia). Wm. T. Rigby, James G. Everest, Lewis Guion, Park Commissioners. Exhibit F. PROGRAM. [■HE NATIONAL MEMORIAL REUNION AND PEACE JUBILEE IN VICKSBURG NATIONAL MILITARY PARK, OCTOBER 16, 17, 18, AND 19, 1917. In charge of National Association of Vicksburg Veterans, F. A. Roziene, president. Authorized by act of United States Congress, September 8, 1917. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 1917. At sunrise — Firing the morning gun, raising the flag. Bugle call — Reveille followed by an invocation for the opening day, singing, "America." 30 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. Breakfast call — 6.30 o'clock to 8 o'clock. This being the opening day, it will be used in receiving and locating the arriving veterans all day. Dinner call — 12 o'clock to 2 o'clock. Supper call — 6 o'clock to 7.30 o'clock. In the evening at sunset— Lowering of the flag. A "welcome address" by Mayor J. J. Hayes, of Vicksburg. Response by Hon. J. A. Burnquist, governor of Minnesota. Taps, 9 o'clock p. m. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17, 1917. At sunrise — Firing the morning gun, raising the flag. Breakfast call — 6.30 o'clock to 8 o'clock. At 10 a. m. — Opening prayer and address by Bishop Gunn, of Natchez. Singing, "Star Spangled Banner." At 10.30 a. m. — Dedication of New York monument. Address by Gov. Theo. Bilbo, State of Mississippi. (Not present.) Music, band. At 11.15 a. m. — Address by Gov. W. L. Harding, State of Iowa, music, "America." Dinner call — 12 o'clock to 2 o'clock. At 2 p. m. — Dedication of Missouri Memorial Leo Rassieur, past commander in chief of the Grand Army of the Republic. Afternoon — Visiting the battle field. Supper call, 6 o'clock to 7.30 o'clock. Evening — Camp fire by States. Taps, 9 o'clock p. m. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 1917 At sunrise — Firing the morning gun, raising the flag. Breakfast call — 6.30 o'clock to 8 o'clock. At 9.30 a. m. — Opening prayer and address by Rev. W. J. Libberton, past de- partment chaplain of Illinois. Singing, "Star Spangled Banner." 10 a. m. — Parade. Address by J. K. Vardaman, ex-governor of Mississippi and United States Senator from Mississippi. (Present, but not speaking.) Music. Address by Gen. George P. Harrison, commander in chief of United Confederate Veterans. (Not present, but represented by Gen. R. P. Lake, of Memphis, Tenn.) Music. Dinner call — 12 o'clock to 2 o'clock. At 2.30 p. m. — Dedication of Union Naval Monument. Supper call — 6 o'clock to 7.30 o'clock. Evening — Music and drum corps. Address by Ell Torrance, past commander in chief Grand Army of the Republic. Music. Address by Judge A. O. Wright, admiral commanding Confederate Naval Veterans. Music. Address by Hon. John Sharp Williams, Senator from Mississippi. Music. Address by Byron P. Harrison, Representative in Congress from sixth district of Mississippi. (Not present.) Music. Address by Gen. A. J. West, commissioner from Georgia in Gettysburg celebration. (Not present, died October 11, 1917.) Music, "America." Taps, 9 p. m. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19, 1917. At sunrise — Firing the morning gun, raising the flag. Breakfast call — 6.30 o'clock to 8 o'clock. At 10 a. m. — Prayer by Rev. J. S. Hillhouse, of Vicksburg. NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 31 Singing — "America" or "Star Spangled Banner." At 10 a. m. — Music. Address by James W. Collier, Representative in Congress from eighth district of Mississippi. Music. Address by Clement Brumbaugh, Representative in Congress from twelfth district of Ohio. Music. Address by F. M. Thompson, of Rock Rapids, Iowa. Subject, Reminiscences of late Capt. John F. Merry, originator of Vicksburg Military Park. Dinner call — 12 o'clock to 2 o'clock. Retrospect and acknowledgments by F. A. Roziene, president. "Nearer my God to Thee." Taps. Exhibit G. The following are copies of the various resolutions adopted by the veterans of Blue and Gray in attendance, as furnished this office or published in the newspapers: Vicksburg, Miss., October 17, 1917. Hon. Woodrow Wilson, Washington, D. C. Upon motion of J. M. Wilson, of California, seconded by W. W. Prewett, of Arkansas, the undersigned committee was appointed at the great reunion camp fire and ' ' pow- wow" held this 17th night of October, 1917, 10,000 veterans of the Blue and Gray present, to convey to you their unanimous indorsement, approval, and support of your war policy and offer to you their hearty services in any capacity that the situation might require. J. H. Caldwell, Of Mansfield, Ark. Geo. D. Kellogg, Of New Castle, Cal. Resolved, That the camp fire of the Blue and Gray veterans held to-night, with 10,000 present, would unanimously extend to the citizens of Vicksburg their sincere thanks for the most open-handed hospitality and courtesies extended to them during their National Memorial and Peace Jubilee. Be it further resolved. That we express our sincere appreciation of the most perfect and satisfactory service of Col. Willard D. Newbill and his assistants, who contributed to the magnificent success of our reunion. J. H. Caldwell, Of Mansfield, Ark. Geo. D. Kellogg, Of New Castle, Cal. Vicksburg, Miss., October 18, 1917. Resolved, That our thanks, heartfelt and sincere, are hereby tendered to Col. Willard D. Newbill, United States Army, and his staff, for the satisfactory manner in which they have contributed to our care and comfort in the arrangements of the camp and the commodious quarters assigned us. J. Milton Mishler, Secretary, Pennsylvania- Vicksburg Jubilee Commission. 32 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. In this connection the members of the Pennsylvania Memorial Commission, MesfTs. Morrison, Mishler, and Meyers, desire to record their appreciation of, and extend their thanks for, the kind and continuous attentions of Col. Newbill and his efficient staff, for the many courtesies extended them and especially for their assirtance and counsel in making the preliminary arrangements for the visit to the reunion of the veterans from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, which has cul- miwated so successfully. J. Milton Mishler, Secretary, Pennsylvania- Vicksburg Jubilee Commission. The following resolution was unanimously adopted in open meeting: Vicksburg, Miss., October 18, 1917. Whereas Comrade F. A. Roziene, president of the National Association of "Vicksburg Veterans, has by his personal efforts exerted in every honorable way possible, working both in season and out, traveling to Washington to speak before congressional committees and throughout the length and breadth of the land to labor with State legislatures, paying in the meantime all his expenses for travel, clerical hire, and postage, he makes this great patriotic and fraternal reunion of the Blue and the Gray possible, all for the sake of the good it would do, and all this in spite of the weight upon him of more than 80 years: Therefore, be it Resolved, That we do hereby express to our good comrade Roziene our heart-felt thanks for his good spirit and his persistent, generous, and loyal efforts to bring about this happy reunion of the Blue and the Gray; and be it further Resolved, That we here assembled, Union and Confederate Vicksburg Veterans, hereby most earnestly urge upon the Congress of the United States an appropria- tion of $3,000 to repay in part the expense to which Comrade Roziene has put him- self to make possible this patriotic and praiseworthy reunion in perfect harmony of the men who 50 years ago bravely fought one another for principles upon which they honestly disagreed, but are now happily reunited. The following resolutions of thanks were adopted by the Wis- consin delegation: Whereas we Wisconsin- Vicksburg veterans have here in these Vicksburg hills and ravines, where 54 years ago we did duty as Union soldiers, enjoyed among our own old comrades and those in gray, who were then separated from us by forts and embankments, big guns, and little guns, a most delightful reunion, we wish now to express our heartfelt gratitude to whom gratitude is due for making this wonder- fully interesting gathering possible. First, to the Good Father of us all for the preservation of our lives all these years while so many of our comrades have been called into the camp beyond the river, for the blue sky and bright sunshine of all this beautiful week, and for the good health for which we have been so richly blessed. Second, to the governor of Wisconsin and the members of our State legislature, especially Senator George Stendenmager and Assemblyman Vaughn, for making provision for all our expenses, with sleeping berth and meal tickets, from our homes to Vicksburg and return; to John C. Prien for his most efficient management of our train service; and to Albert By croft for his part as assistant to the adjutant general of Wisconsin, in making our trip so pleasant and perfect in every detail. Third, to our big-hearted Uncle Samuel for his generous provision for our enter- tainment and comfort as his guests in camp at Vicksburg. NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 33 Fourth, to the gallant soldier boys in khaki and the bright young Boy Scouts from various parts of Mississippi for the kindness and courtesy which they have manifested toward us in all our pleasant relations with them. Fifth, to all the citizens of Vicksburg for their courteous good will wherever and whenever we have met them while encamped within their borders, for all of which we shall carry to our home the most pleasant recollections. Sixth, last, yet not least, to our good Comrade F. A. Roziene, president of the National Association of Vicksburg Veterans, for all he has done in the organization and bringing to pass so successfully this great reunion of the Blue and the Gray. While we can in no wise understand and fully appreciate his patriotic energy, his fraternal spirit, his persistent, self-sacrificing efforts, his persuasive, gentle patience as he has labored with congressional and legislative committees to make this glorious meeting possible, we do know that he has accomplished wonders for us, and we do hereby extend to him all the gratitude of which we are capable May the richest of heaven's blessing rest upon him, and now, because Comrade Roziene has paid out of his own pocket almost the entire expense of financing this great patriotic and praiseworthy undertaking, we do hereby most earnestly urge upon the Congress of the United States to appropriate the sum of $3,000 to repay in part Comrade Roziene for the money he has spent in bringing to pass this fraternal reunion of the Blue and the Gray. The following resolution denouncing the war policies of Senator La Follette, of Wisconsin, were passed by the delegation of Wiscon- sin veterans attending the National Memorial Reunion. E. G. Nye, of Milwaukee, Wis., was appointed by the delegation to draft the resolutions, which were as follows : Assembled in fraternity at Vicksburg, Miss., with those we fought here 54 years ago we, Wisconsin remnants of the loyal hosts of the great Civil War, renew our allegiance to the cause of civilization and democracy and proclaim our unqualified trust and confidence in the President of this great Nation, and pledge again as we have in the past our united and zealous support of every effort to conquer a world peace; and we further denounce the disloyal utterances and activity of R. M. La Follette, senior Senator of Wisconsin, and his followers in and out of the United States Senate. We believe that he and his supporters are enemies of the United States of America, and that they are accessories before and after the fact to the slaughter of American citizens and soldiers, insult the memory of the noble dead, and menace the integrity of our flag and all it symbolizes, and we demand that treason be made odious and insist that its penalty is and should be death. October 18, 1917. Resolved, That we, veterans of Illinois, wish to express our appreciation to all who have taken part in the preparation and conduct of this splendid reunion, and we personally and individually are under obligations to Col. Willard D. Newbill and Capt. J. Paul Jones, the soldier boys, and the Boy Scouts for the efficient untiring, unselfish, and whole-hearted way in which they have looked after our comfort, conveniences, and welfare. D. C. Zimmerman, Vandalia, III. 34 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. Exhibit H. Vicksburg National Military Park Commission, Vicksburg, Miss., October 23, 1917. Assistant Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. Sir: The memorial reunion of veterans of the Civil War, Union and Confederate, held on this battle-field park October 16-19 instant, was most successful and helpful in many ways, especially in promoting recognition of the fact that the officers and men arrayed in opposed lines from 1861 to 1865 were American citizen soldiers, Union and Confederate alike, and also in strengthening the conviction in the hearts of all present that our country must stay in the world war to a victorious finish and until Germany is licked to a frazzle. In the chairman's opinion, the Congress is to be congratulated on the results secured by its appropriation for the reunion. In large part the success was due to the able management of Col. Willard D. Newbill, United States Army, and to the efficient work of his staff of assistants. The chairman has pleasure in making this recognition of their services a part of this report. (Signed) W. T. Rigby, Chairman Vicksburg National Military Park Commission. City op Vicksburg, Vicksburg, Miss., November 22, 1917. Col. Willard D. Newbill, In Charge National Memorial Peace Jubilee, Vicksburg, Miss. My Dear Colonel: Now that you are about to finish the work assigned you by the Government and return to your duties in the war game, I would be remiss and unap- preciative did I not in my official capacity, as mayor of this city, thank you, and through you, your able assistants, for successfully carrying out without one single mishap or unpleasant feature one of the largest and most enthusiastic gatherings that has ever been held in the South. Permit me, officially and individually, to wish for you and your aids, as you so well deserve, success in the years to come and that we may some day, after the passage of the war cloud, welcome you, one and all, again to our little city. Respectfully, (Signed.) J. J. Hayes, Mayor. United States Post Office, Vicksburg, Miss., October 20, 1917. Col. Willard D. Newbdll, Field Artillery, Quartermaster Corps, United States Army, in Charge of Arrangements "National Memorial Celebration and Peace Jubilee," Vicksburg, Miss. My Dear Colonel: As postmaster, I desire to extend to you and also your asso- ciates my hearty congratulations on the magnificent success achieved during the recent national memorial held at this city. Please allow me to thank you also for the cordial cooperation extended me and my assistants in the operation of the branch post office on the grounds of the encampment. Yours, very truly, (Signed) H. H. Mackey, Postmaster. NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 35 Illinois Central Railroad, Passenger Traffic Department, Chicago, III., November 19, 1917. My Dear Col. Newbill: Beg to acknowledge receipt of your esteemed favor of the 13th instant expressing your appreciation of the help given by our representa- tives toward making the National Memorial Reunion at Vicksburg a success. It is very gratifying to receive your words of appreciation, for which please accept my very sincere thanks. I want to take this opportunity of extending to you my hearty congratulations on the splendid manner in which you conducted the memorial reunion, both in the advance arrangements and during the period of the reunion. We have heard nothing but the highest praises from the veterans who attended the reunion, and you certainly must feel the satisfaction of a duty well performed. With my very best wishes for your continued success and good health, am, Very sincerely, yours, (Signed) S. G. Hatch, Passenger Traffic Manager. Mr. Willard D. Newbill, Colonel, United States Army, In Charge National Memorial Reunion, Vicksburg, Miss. The following letter, addressed to the officer in charge of arrange- ments, is received just as the report goes to press and is included to show the deep sentiments of appreciation and gratitude to which the president of the National Association of Vicksburg Veterans is inspired by the facilities offered by the Government in making their reunion a suceess : The National Association of Vicksburg Veterans. executive committee. A. G. Weissert, past commander in chief G. A. R Milwaukee, Wis. Leo Rassieur, past commander in chief G. A. R., and presi- dent Missouri Vicksburg Park Commission St. Louis, Mo. D. J. Palmer, past commander in chief G. A. R., late colonel Twentieth Iowa Infantry Washington, Iowa. Hon. David F. Pugh, attorney at law • Columbus, Ohio. Col. James Kilbourne, attorney at law Columbus, Ohio. James G. Everest, commissioner Vicksburg National Park Chicago, 111. Joseph Rosenbaum, past commander Department of Illinois, G. A. R Chicago, 111. Geo. D. Reynolds, late lieutenant colonel Sixth United States 'Colored Heavy Artillery; presiding judge court of appeals St. Louis, Mo. C. S. Bentley, late brigadier general of Second Iowa National Guard Chicago, 111. E. E. Lewis, vice chairman Michigan Vicksburg Park Com- mission Coldwater, Mich. Capt. W. T. Ratliff Raymond, Miss. Col. Andrew Cowan, junior vice commander in chief Military Order of the Loyal Legion Louisville, Ky. Chaa. L. Longley Twin Falls, Idaho. 36 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. Gen. Jonathan Kellogg, commander Arkansas Division, U. C. V. .Little Rock, Ark. Col. John McElroy, editor National Tribune Washington, D. C. Gen. C. W. Hooper, commander Alabama Division, U. C. V. . .Selma, Ala. E. K. Rubs, past department commander of Louisiana and Mississippi, G. A. R New Orleans, La. Frank Gaiennie, past commander U. C. V St. Louis, Mo. John M. Vernon, member Illinois- Vicksburg Park Commission. .Chicago, 111. Louis Guion, late captain Twenty-sixth Louisiana Infantry, commissioner Vicksburg National Military Park New Orleans, La. John G. Cashman, late First Mississippi Light Artillery; editor of Vicksburg Evening Post Vicksburg, Miss. John R. Cook, captain Iowa Infantry; special passenger agent Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad Co West Union, Iowa. A. M. Trimble, assistant adjutant general Department of Ne- braska, G. A. R Lincoln, Nebr. J. B. Allen, past president Ohio-Vicksburg Battlefield Commis- sion Athens, Ohio. Capt. James B. Sinnott, late commissioner Gettysburg celebra- tion New Orleans, La. W. F. Connor, division passenger agent Wabash System Dallas, Tex. G. H. Tichnor, major general commanding Louisiana Division, U. C. V New Orleans, La. COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION. Gen. A. J. West, Atlanta, Ga. Capt. E. J. C. Bealer, Cedar Rapids, Major Leo Rassieur, St. Louis, Mo. Iowa. Dabney M. Scales, Memphis, Tenn. Col. Edward A. Stevens, Chicago. Capt. John A. Webb, Jackson, Miss. F. A. Roziene, Chicago, chairman. HONORARY MEMBERS. John T. Stockton, past commander of Camp 100, Sons of Veterans, Department of Illinois, and member Loyal Legion, Chicago, 111. W. O. Hart, past commandant of Camp Beauregard, No. 130, Sons of Confederate Veterans, New Orleans, La. Chicago, December 10, 1917. Col. WlLLARD D. NEWBILL, Quartermaster Corps, United States Army, Washington, D. C. My Dear Colonel: It has been my privilege to read your report to the Quarter- master General of the United States Army upon the celebration of the National Memorial Reunion and Peace Jubilee of the Federal and Confederate Civil War veterans of 1861 to 1865, as authorized and supported by an act, H. R. 17645, in the Sixty-fourth Congress, and approved September 8, 1916, of which you were in charge of its preparation and successful consummation. This report exemplifies your thoroughness in briefly condensing facts; and the War Department is to be highly congratulated on selecting you for this undertaking, and the National Association of .Vicksburg veterans owe the department warmest gratitude for giving us the priceless value of your connection with this undertaking and thereby relieving me of much of my four years' constant application of responsi- bilities and anxiety and expenses in its promotion. Your masterful ingenuity in economic executive ability and force in development and utilizing the smaller items in greater necessities brought us the success which comrades, who had attended the Gettysburg celebration and most of kindred functions, say "there never was one so H. Doc. 754, 65-2 NATIONAL MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND PEACE JUBILEE. 37 complete in all its arrangements," in all its provisions which at almost every turn they met with surprises and satisfaction. I can not divorce myself from this opportunity in behalf of the National Association of Vicksburg veterans, and I feel warranted to include all the attending Civil War veterans, to tender the United States War Department and the Quartermaster Gen- eral's Corps our most sincere gratitude for their courteous interest and support extended to us in this undertaking. It is with high appreciation that I now have for the first time had the opportunity to see or hear read a copy of the resolution offered by comrade Hosea W. Rood, of Wisconsin, and adopted by the attending Veterans at the reunion, October 18th ultimo, recommending a partial reimbursement of my expenses connected with the promotion of this reunion. It will be welcome and appreciated. It suggests itself that any surplus that may remain of the national appropriation after all expenses have first been paid be set aside and used in the erection of a national memorial arch at the entrance to the Vicksburg National Military Park in commemora- tion of this National Memorial Reunion and Peace Jubilee. Its historical value and inspiration can not be overestimated. All days of earthly glory are but transient, and even so the gathering throng of grizzled veterans in the camp, each contributing his share to make life worth living and bless the day of reuniting the once estranged hearts in lasting friendship and love, had its short duration, but left sweet memoirs that can not be erased. Did you hear the ancient veteran eulogizing the flag that led his convictions in the contest and made it sacred to his heart for what it was then, but now thanked God that we are all united, sheltered, guided, and protected under the one unsullied national banner that emphasizes justice and love for all men, sympathy and solace for the oppressed, the home for the homeless, fraternal charity and loyalty to all men? Yes; I saw it all. I stood alone and in reality viewed such impressive scenes. Could I do so stifling a heart welling forth the praise and inexpressible gratitude for this divine mission? That ground was an altar embowered with grand foliage and verdure and held within the hallowed shrine the spirit of the Almighty to sanctify our mission for peace and love. Col. Newbill, you rendered a great share for this inspiration. To you we owe our lasting gratitude for making this the last gathering in the Civil War Veterans' National Memorial Reunion and Peace Jubilee its conspicuous success. It was your clear foresight, great executive ability, energy, and your deep interest in its purpose that made it the crowning event. In our destinies a parting will separate the dearest friends. We of the older generations, unacceptable to more active pursuits, will be left in our homes to think of and pray for protection and guidance of our friends who are endangered in the conflict for universal liberty and happiness. We pray that the protecting hand may ever follow you and bring you back crowned with victory in universal peace. I remain, Yours, most faithfully, F. A. Rozibne, President National Association of Vicksburg Veterans. o