34th CoNORFAS, } SENATE.
1st Sessimi. \
i Ex. Doc.
I No. 96.
STATISTICAL REPORT
SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES,
COMPILED FROM
THE RECORDS OF THE SURGEON GENERALS OFFICE;
BUBRACINn
A PERIOD OF SIXTEEN YEARS,
FROM JANUARY, 1839, TO JANUARY. 1855,
PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF
BREVET BRIGADIER GENERAL THOMAS LAWSON,
SUBGKON' nEXERAI. UXITKD STATE" AT!MY.
BY
KK'HAKD H. GOOLIDGE. M . D..
ASSISTANT SURGEON l'. S. ARMV.
WASHINGTON:
A. 0. P. NICHOLSON. PRINTER.
185G.
In Senate of the United States,
Auf/ust 5, lSo6.
Resolval, That there be printed the usual number, and also five thousand extra copies of the rejiort of tlie Secretary of
War, communicating a copy of the "Statistieal Report on the Mortality and fSicltness in the United States Army," lifteen
hundred copies of wliich shall he for tliu use of the Medical Department of the array.
Attest; ASBUKY DKKINS,
Secretary.
REPORT
THE SECRETARY OF WAR,
IN COltPLIAXCE WITH
A resolution of the Senate^ calling for a copy of the Statistical Report on the Mortality
and Sickness in the United States Army.
War Department,
WasMmjton, July 28, 1856.
Sir : In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 16th instant, I have the honor
herewith to transmit a communication from the Surgeon General of the army, accompanied hy
" a copy of a Statistical Report on the Sickness and Mortality of the Array of the United States."
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JEFF'N DAVIS,
Secretary of War.
Hon. J. D. BrKtHT,
Premdent of the Senate,
Scrgeon General's Office,
July 26, 1856.
Sir : A Statistical Report on the Sickness and Mortality in the Army of the United States, for
a period of twenty years, from January, 1819, to January, 1839, embracing the medical topogra-
phy of the several military posts, and information respecting all those agencies which may
^ have influenced the health of the troops, was prepared and published under my direction in
v 1840. It was my intention to have similar reports compiled from time to time, but circum-
\ stances beyond my control have delayed the fulfilment of that design.
^ With this purpose in view, I addressed the following circular to the medical officers :
<l
"Surgeon General's Office,
»^ " J^jri7 30, 1852.
■^ "Sir: It is contemplated to draw up a statistical report on the 'sickness and mortality
^ in the army of the United States,' in continuation of the publication issued from this office in
,- 1840.
■- "You are therefore requested, in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 51, Medical
^ Regulations, 1850, to prepare a paper on the medical topography of. the post at which you are
"^ stationed. You will describe the geographical position of the post, the physical aspect of the
6350^2
4 RErOET OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR.
surrounding country; the geological formations; its flora ; its fauna, (the animals, trees, and
plants belonging to it;) the characteristics of climate; the nature and causes of the diseases
jirevailing at the jiost and its vicinity, and how far these diseases can he traced to general and
local causes; how far to habits and modes of life, to water, diet, &c., &c.
" In this connexion, you are also requested to collect together as many facts as possible con-
cerning the vital statistics of tlie inhabitants in the vicinity of your post, particularly of the
Indian tribes; giving a brief but clear account of their several diseases, &c., &c., embracing
every matter of information calculated to prove useful or interesting to the department and the
medical world.
" From the retained copies of the sick reports, you will draw up the necessary tabular
statements to elucidate the subject, and give the results in a condensed form. As it isproi^osed
to publish each individual essay under the name of the gentleman who draws it up, all facts,
statements, and conclusions will rest upon the responsibility of the officer making the report.
" Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
"TH. LAWSON,
''Surgeon General."
The replies to this circular form a prominent leature in the statistical report herewith sub-
mitted^ which presents the principal facts connected with the health of the troops for a period
of sixteen years, from January, 183'.), to January, 1855.
The duty of compiling this report from the records of this office was intrusted to Assistant
Surgeon Richard H. Coolidge, United States army, to whose letter, herewith transmitted, you
are respectfully referred for more particular information respecting the general arrangement
and details ol' the work.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
TH. LAWSON,
Surgeon General.
lion. Jeff. Davis, Secretary of War.
Surgeon General's Office,
July 25, 1856.
Sir : In entering upon the duty of preparing a Statistical Eeport on the Sickness and Mortality
in the Army of the United States, in continuation of the one prejiared under your direction by
Assistant Surgeon Samuel Forry, and published in 1840, 1 proceeded, in obedience to your in-
structions, to examine all the records pertaining to the subject, with the view of arranging the
whole in one general system. An extended examination of the original reports led to the con-
clusion that, although it was possible to exhibit with accuracy the entire amount of sickness
and mortality, except for a portion of the time when the United States was at war witli Mexico,
the utility of such statistics would not be commensurate with tlie very great amount of labor
necessary to their compilation.
During the sixteen years embraced in this report, the army has liad but three years' exemp-
tion from field operations and actual hostilities. The war with the Seminole Indians in Flori-
da continued until the summer of 1842 ; in 1846 war was declared with Mexico, and the forces
of the United States were not witlidrawn from tliat country until July, 1848. Since that time
the greater portion of the army has been almost constantly eiuployed in long and fatiguing
marches, incident to the establishment and occupation of military posts in the newly acquired
territories, and to the protection of a greatly extended frontier. Not a year, and, indued, rarely
REPORT OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR. O
a montli has passed, in which a part of the army has not been engaged in hostilities with some
of the numerous and warlike Indian tribes who roam over the great interior plains, or occupy
the Pacific slope of the Rocky Mountains.
In order to make the records of this ofBce practically useful to the physician in civil life, and
to render them subservient to the elucidation of the effects of climate in the causation and devel-
opment of disease, it was necessary not only to present the vital statistics of the army in peace
separate from those in war, but also to arrange the former in such manner as to render their
comparison with the statistics of civil communities as free from objection as possible.
For this purpose, the statistics of troops on marches, or while engaged in warlike operations,
have been excluded from the first division of this report ; so that it presents as nearly as possi-
ble the diseases incident to soldiers in garrison, which must in a very great degree partake of
the general characteristics of diseases affecting persons in civil life. It lias not, however, been
practicable to exclude those diseases which may have been contracted during a temporary tour
of field service, but which were either developed at, or reported from, a permanent post ; nor
should it be concealed that diseases so contracted affect to a considerable degree all the statis-
tics, but more particularly those of the stations on the Gulf coast of Florida, and on the
Indian frontiers.
The general plan adopted in the report above referred to — that of considering the statistical
and topographical details of the military posts in geographical divisions and subdivisions,
having similar climatological features — has been followed; but instead of presenting the di.s-
eases of each post in a distinct abstract, it has been determined to consolidate the diseases of
the several posts in each subdivision or region into one general abstract for that region.
Tliose abstracts have been compiled from the original "reports of sick and wounded," which
the medical ofiicers are required to transmit to this ofBce on the 31st of March, 30th of June,
30th of September, and 31st of December, annually. The arrangement of those reports in the
classification and nomenclature of diseases is similar to that of the " Sanitary Eeport" of the
British army ; and as uniformity adds value to statistics, I have not hesitated to adopt such of
the forms used in the admirable "Statistical Eeports on the Sickness, Mortality, and Inva-
liding" in that army, as the difference in the nature of the two services and the general plan of
this report permitted.
The elaborate medico-topographical reports which liave l)een made in reply to your circular
of April 30, 1852, are presented as written, and are duly credited to their respective authors.
The only changes whicli have been made are those incident to editorial supervision, and tlie
omission of certain tables which were rendered unnecessary by a change in the mode of pre-
senting the statistics, adopted subsequent to the issue of the circular. The brief topographical
descriptions, for which credit is given in a less distinctive form, are transcribed from the reports
of sick and wounded ; and those for wliich no credit is given, have been compiled from the ob-
servations of several medical ofiicers. In the few instances in whicli no more recent information
conhl be obtained, the topograpliy has been copied from the statistical report published in 1840.
Tlie medical officers are designated by the rank wliich they held at the time their respective
reports were written.
In connexion with tlie report on vital statistics, a portion of tlie annual summaries of obser-
vations on the winds and weather, and tlie consolidated temperature and rain tables, from the
Army Meteorological Pegister, recently prepared by me under your direction, 'are respectfully
submitted ; and it is also suggested that the outline map, used for the illustration of that work,
accompany tlii.s report, as it gives the true position of the military posts.
6 REPORT OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR,
The tifcoiid division ol'tliis rciuirt is devoted to tl:e consideration of the vitul statistics of the
war with Mexico. Brief and imperfect as are the results there exhibited, they liave been ob-
tained only by long-continued and patient investigation. For tliis portion of tlie report, and
also for the statistics resjiceting the recniitiiig service, I have to acknowledge my indebtedness
to the labors of my predecessor, Assistant Surgeon Alexander S. Wotherspoon, who was en-
gaged in the compilation of thoso statistics at the time of his death.
I Iiavo the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
RICHD. H. COOLIDGE,
Assistant Surgeon U, S. Army.
Brevet Brig. Gen. Th. Lawson,
Surf/em General U. S. Army.
STATISTICAL REPORT
SICKNESS AND MORTALITY IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES.
For the purposea of this Eejiort, the military posts of the United States have heen arranged
in the following geographical divisions : the Northern Division, includes that portion of the
United States which lies north of the fortieth degree of latitude, and east of the Kocky Mount-
ains; the Middle Division, that portion lying between the thirty-fifth and fortieth parallels
of latitude ; the Southern Division, that between the thirtieth and thirty-fifth degrees of lati-
tude. In addition to these, are the Divisions of Florida, Texas, New Mexico, California, and of
Oregon and Washington Territories.
These principal divisions have been subdivided into regions, each distinguished by peculiar
local or climatological features.
NOETHERN DIVISION.
NORTH ATLANTIC EEGION— COAST OF NEW ENGLAND.
The military stations included in this region are six in number, extending from Eastport,
Maine, to New London, Connecticut.
FORT SULLIVAN.
Fort Sullivan, the most northern military post on the Atlantic coast, is situated on a rocky
eminence on Moose Island, Passamaquoddy Bay, in the immediate vicinity of the town of East-
port, Maine. The island is about four miles long and two wide, having a rocky and sterile
soil. Owing to its situation, and its proximity to the Bay of Fundy, the climate is damp, and
fogs are frequent in the earlier summer months. The winters are cold, and, in this season, the
thermal variations are often sudden ; yet, more extreme cold is felt in the interior, on the main
land, than on the island.
The quarters are of frame-work, to accommodate one company. The hospital, also of frame-
work, is two stories high, with a portico to each story fronting the south. The dispensary,
store-rooms, kitchen, and steward's and matron's quarters are on the ground floor. The
wards, two in number, are on the second story, and accommodate twenty patients.
FORT PREBLE.
This post is situated on the northern extremity of Cape Elizabeth, called Spring Point, from
a remarkable spring at the base of the wall of the fort, a little above high-water mark. The
land at the west of the fort rises to the height of fifteen or twenty feet; on the south, about a
mile and a half distant, on the eastern extremity of the cape, is the Portland Head light. There
is no stagnant water, or anything to render the post unhealthy, unless the chill north wind
from the bay may have some eiFect in checking cutaneous action, or bringing on diarrhoea,
coughs, and rheumatic affections, which seem to be the prevailing complaints.
FORT CONSTITUTION.
This fort is located on a peninsula which forms the most eastern point of the State of New
Hampshire, washed on the south by the Atlantic, and on the north by the Piscataqua river.
It is at the entrance to the inner harbor of Portsmouth, between two and three miles from that
town. The country adjacent is uneven and rocky. Some fresh and some salt marshes are
found on Great Island, about half a mile distant. The hospital is situated without the fort,
and so near the ocean that in violent easterly and southerly storms the spray beats against it.
FORT INDEPENDENCE.
This fort is on Castle Island, in the luirbm- of Boston, three miles southeast from the State
House, and nine miles from the entrance to Boston boy. The nearest land on the west is
Dorchester Point, which is three-fourths of a mile distant. On the south is Thompson's Island,
s. 9H 2
10 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
distant one mile and a liall'; and one mile north is Governor's Island, ovei'looking and com-
manding Fort Independence. The island has a hard and gravelly soil ; the tide ebhs and
flows from ten to fourteen feet, and there are no stagnant waters in the vicinit}'.
FORT ADAMS.
This extensive fortification is sittiated on the island of Rhode Island, at the entrance of Narra-
gansett hav, on a point of land called Brenton's Point, projecting toward the island of Connan-
icut, and forming one side of Newport harhor. The country around is of primary formation,
with rocky elevations, and valleys susceptible of cultivation. The whole island is destitute of
wood, except fruit-trees, and small groves, principally of oak, hickory, and maple. The climate
is most salubrious ; few diseases can be said to prevail here. "It is believed," says Surgeon
R. S. Satterlee, "that had the troops proper barracks for their accommodation, and a comfort-
able hospital in wliich to receive and treat them when sick, the immunity I'rom iatal disease
would be without a parallel. We are, however, now subject to rheumatism, catarrh, pleurisy,
diarrlicea, and also intermittent fever, all caused by the abominable bomb-proof quarters in
which the troops stationed here are obliged to live."
FORT TRUMBULL
Is on the right bank of the river Thames, one mile below New London, and two and a half miles
from the shore of Long Island Sound. The position is rocky, and the drainage good. The river
opposite the fort is about half a mile wide, and within the same distance irom the fort are two
small salt marshes. The soil of the surrounding country is rather sterile, presenting an
undulating aspect, rising in prominent ridges of eighty or one hundred feet, with rock fre-
quently breaking forth abruptly upon its surface. ^
DISEASES
The only epidemic which has prevailed among the troops stationed in tliis region, during the
period embraced in this report, is one of influenza (catarrhus epidemicus), which appearing on
the 17th of June, 1843, at Fort Trumbull, extended to Fort Adams and Fort Preble in July
following, though it does not appear to have afFectcd the garrisons of Forts Constitution and
Sullivan. Fort Independence was not then occupied.
The following remarks concerning this epidemic, as it occurred at Fort Trumbull, are copied
from the report of Surgeon J. B. Porter: "It will be seen that the month of April was exceed-
ingly healthy ; May was also healthy, notwithstanding several cases of catarrh of a mild charac-
ter. The first part of June was also healthy, but the last part quite the reverse. Epidemic
catan-h (influenza) has been extremely prevalent during the last half of the month ; all the
cases of that disease reported, save one, having occurred since the 17th. During the preva-
lence of this epidemic the weather was remarkably pleasant. The disease usually made its
attack without much warning, becoming fully developed in eight or twelve hours. Si/inp-
toms. — General pain or soreness; almost invariably pains of the frontal region and loins, and
frequently of the chest and epigastrium; very generally soreness of the globe of the eye; i)ulse
varying in frequency, but almost always wanting in volume; sometimes cotigh quite trouble-
some, and often little or none; skin never liot and dry, but generally inclined to be cold and
moist, amounting in some instances to a cold p^rs])iration ; in many cases thirst, in others none
at all; in some cases irritable stomach; and in all constipation. The disease was attended
with considerable depression of the nervous power, and great derangement of the liver.
Treatment. — Sumetimes an emetic commenced the treatment, with obvious benefit. Generally
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
11
a dose of calomel, followed by divided doses of tart: ant:, pushed so as to produce one or two
copious evacuations of bile from the stomach, caused a material improvement. Cupping iu all
cases where there appeared to be local determination, to the temples, cervical spine, chest, epigas-
trium, lumbar region, &c., was beneficial. Tamarind-water, the common drink. Although
the comjilaint lasted in most cases only two or three days, it was followed by great debility of
the digestive organs and the general system. Mild tonics were then usefiil. In no case was
venesection indicated; on the contrary, it would have been injurious, and in many cases highly
dangerous. The women and children of the post, and the workmen on the fortifications, were
affected; and the complaint has been prevalent in the neighboring town of Kew London and
the country around."
Surgeon Satterlee, at Fort Adams, reports: "Catarrh has been the prevailing disease this
quarter. The cases mostly occurred in July, wlien almost the whole command was affected by
it in some degree. It began with cough, pains in chest-and head, sickness at the stomach,
bilious coated tongue, and sometimes fever, but not always. The treatment adopted was to
cleanse the stomach and bowels by a dose of ten grains of calomel and six grains of Dover's
powder, followed, in four hours, by thirty grains of pulv: ipecacuanhse, which quickly broke
up the disease, when a Dover's powder at night, and the warm foot-bath, procured sleep and
perspiration, and the patients recover.ed. Great benefit was also derived from cool sea-bathing.
In some instances bleeding and cupping were necessary at the commencement of the treat-
ment."
The principal diseases, and causes of death among the troops stationed in this region, are
exhibited in abstract No. 1. for this division. It is not proposed to enter into a minute analysis
of that general abstract, but only to present those main features which are necessary to a com-
parative analysis of the abstracts from the several regions, with the view of showing the rela-
tive frequency of certain classes of diseases in different climates. For this purpose summaries
will be given of fevers ; of diseases of tlie organs connected with the digestive system ; and of
diseases of the respiratory system.
The following table, compiled from the abstract for this region, shows the aggregate mean
strength of the forces, the number of cases of sickness treated, the deaths, and the ratio of
cases and deaths for 1,000 of mean strength.
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
KaTIO per 1.000 OK MEAN STRE-NGTU.
Treated.
First QiiJirter -
3,927
4,09B
1,537
1,774
2,203
1,421
10
9
10
7
391 2.5
Second (luarter
433 2.2
4,037
3,794
545 1 2.4
374 1.8
AunUtil ratio
3,963
6,935
36 1 1 V4.<i 9.n
-,■-- 1
It will be perceived from the foregoing data that the average annual proportion of cases of
disease in this region to the number of officers and men was l.To to 1 ; that the ratio of deaths
to tlie number of troops was J in 110, or 0.9 i)er cent. ; and that tlie proportion of deaths to
the number of cases treated was 1 to 192.64, or 0.52 per cent.
It is jiropcr to remark in tliis connexion, that all cases of indisposition sufficient to render
the .s.ildifr even temporarily unfit for duty are included in the surgeon's report of sick. The
12
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
relative proportion of cases treated to the number of men, is greater therefore, in the army
than would be the case in persons in civil life similarly located, because the motives to exertion
on the part of individuals arc more controlling with them than with soldiers. '
FEVERS.
riRsT.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
YEAR.
2
i .
1 il
3 « S-S
strength
3,927
4,
096
4,037
3,794
3,9C3
■o s s »
t
" S
o E
o <-.
'^ o
Ed
a
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Febria continua communis
14
10
10
8
42
Oin 42
10
Febris intermittens quotidiana.
18
32
23
26 '
1
99
0'
Oin 99
25
Febris intermittens tertiana
45
70
36
44 1
195
in 195
49
Febrig intermittens quartana ..
1
5
3
2 1
11
Oin 11
3
Febris remittens .._....
39
3
1
31
8
15
4
2
5 1
87
20
2
Oin 87
1 in 10
22
5
Febris typhus icterodes
120
Oin
Total
1
156
91
0.
87
1
454
2
1 in 227
114
NoTH. — In this, and all similar tables, decimal quantities will generally be omitted, and the nearest whole number re-
cordca.
It is believed that this table, and those of the same form which follow, are sufficiently com-
prehensive not to require a statement in detail of the facts presented. Unless, therefore, the
statistical results are calculated to lead to erroneous conclusions, no special analysis will be
given ; nor will any attempt be made to explain or reconcile anomalous results, unless the
means for so doing are found in the original records.
In the present instance some comment is necessary, as it appears from the table that inter-
mittent and remittent fevers are not uncommon in this region, a result not to be expected from
the medical topography of the stations, and one, too, at variance with a previously published
report.* On examining the abstract, it will be seen that fevers of intermittent and remittent
types prevailed principally during the first, second, and third quarters of 1849 ; in the fourth
quarter of 1850, and in the first three quarters of 1851 and of 1854. Turning to the original
reports, it is ascertained that in 1849 these diseases occurred in men who had recently served
in Mexico; and in 1850, 1851, and 1854, in troops transferred from Florida to Forts Adams and
Independence. The medical officers report that those diseases did not originate at these posts ;
and the remark of Assistant Surgeon Sargent, that "in thirty-three years' practice at Fort
Constitution, he had known but one case of intermittent fever which was not of foreign
origin," will, as a general rule, apply to all the military stations on the coast of New England.
An examination of the abstract will suffice to show the certainty with which the liability to
attacks of intermittent yields to the influence of a residence in this region, though the fact is
more conclusively demonstrated by the original reports. The troops from Mexico reached the
New England stations in September, 1848, and in the following month intermittents are
reported, disappearing almost entirely within the succeeding twelve months. In December,
1850, troops arrived from Florida, bringing with them this class of fevers, which were eradi-
cated within the Ibllowing year.
Eruptive Fevers have been so rare as not to require special notice.
• statistical Report on the Sickness and Mortality in tlie Army of the United States. Prepared under the direction of
Thomaf Laweou, M. D., Surgeon Geueial, by Assistant Surgeon Samuel Forry, M. D. : Washington, 1840.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
13
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTn'E SYSTEM
Quarters -
j riEsT.
6ECOND.
TDIRD.
rOCBTH.
TEAR.
%
%
Strength
3,927
4,096
4. 037
3, 794
3.903
* _
Cases. I Deaths. ■ Cases, i Deaths.
Choleia Asiatica I
DiarrhcEa 81
Dysenteria acuta 24
Dysenteria chronica 15
Enteritis
Hepatitis acuta 1
Hepatitis chronica 1
Obstipatio-. 19
All other diseases of the
Digestive System 84
Total .
225
94
32
13
1
4
30
119
293
Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths.
265
175
12
1
3
67
233
69
1 ■
53
7.
1
1
27
1
118
756
509
284
47
1
3
8
143
5S4
1 in 170
1 in 28 ^
in 47
1 in 1
in 3
in 8
in 143
1 in 138
128
72
12
0.25
0.75
2
36
275
3 ;l,549
1 in 172
14
390.8
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM.
Quarters
Strength .
3,927 4,096 4,037 3,794
3,963
Capes. Deaths. Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths. Cases. I Deaths.
Bronchitis acuta et chronica. . 12
Catarrhus 351
Phthisis pulmonalis. 7
Pleuritis 33
Pneumonia i 18
All other diseases of the Re-
spiratory System 9
Total 430
Rheumatismus 62
I 16
1 254
6
1 30
14
5
264
2 1
21
4
16
228
5
23
1 i 12 ;
11
49
1,097
19
107
44
40
332
306
288
1 1,356 8
in 49
1 in 1097
1 in 4
1 in 107
in 44
1 in 40
12
277
4.8
27
11
10
1 in 169 342
90
83
103
338
in 338
85
For the meteorology of this region, as well as for that of all the military posts, the reader
is referred to the series of consolidated temperature and rain tables, and to the annual sum-
maries of observations on the weather, to be found in another portion of this report. Those
tables exhibit the more important results of a system of observations commenced by the Medi-
cal Bureau in 1819, and which has been continued with varied modifications and improvements
up to the present time.*
* For more copious and extended meteorological tables, reference is made to the series of Anny Meteorological Begis-
tors, published under the direction of tire Surgaon General in 1S26, 1840, 1851, and 1855.
14 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
NORTH ATLANTIC REGION— NEW YORK HARBOR.
In the "Statistical Report on tlic Sickness and Mortality in the Army of the United States,"
heretofore cited, the stations in the harbor of New York were included in the class of New
England posts. A departure from that classification has been judged advisable, for the reason
that all recruits enlisted in the city of New York, and those also from the whole Atlantic sea-
board, are sent to those posts for re-inspection and instruction, preparatory to their distribution
to the several regiments and corps of the army. The climatic influences here differ sensibly
from those which obtain on the coast of New England, and this affords an additional reason for
the course now pursued.
Three posts in this harbor have been occupied by troops : Fort Columbus, Fort Wood, and
Fort Hamilton.
MEDICAL TOPOGKAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT COLUMBUS.
By Surgeon S. G. I. De Camp : 1S53.
Fort Columbus is situated on Governor's Island, harbor of New York, in latitude 40° 42' ;
longitude 74° 1'. Altitude above sea, 23 feet.
The island contains about seventy-five acres, having the Hudson river on the west_, and the
East river on the east side of it. It is about twenty miles distant from the ocean at Sandy
Hook, which is in a southwesterly direction ; from New York about one mile, and from the
city of Brooklyn six hundred yaixls. The drainage is good, from the natural slope of the
ground. The soil is a sandy loam. The rock on the border of the island is gneiss. The well-
water is not good, as it is brackish ; there are several large cisterns upon the island, but not of
sufficient capacity to furnish a supply of good water when the fort is fully garrisoned.* Such
has been the case during the last summer; and the consequence was, that diarrhoea and other
afl'ectious of the bowels have been common, having for their cause, to a considerable extent, the
general use of well-water. Assistant Surgeon J. Simpson, who is on duty at Fort Wood,
Bedloe's Island, where the same quality of water is founds informs me that, while the well-
water was used, the same character of disease prevailed there ; but that when Croton water
from New York was furnished the troops in consequence of the failure of the wells, the disease
entirely disappeared. It is a well-established fact, that the ratio of disease and death has been
greatly diminished in the city of New York since the introduction of Croton water into that
city.
Intermittent and remittent fevers have been common on the island during the past summer,
especially among women and children ; and more especially so, among those who have occupied
buildings known as "Rotten Row." These buildings have not been considered suitable quar-
ters for soldiers for many years, and have been mostly occupied by the hangers-on of the army
as temporary residences, without any proper regard for policy, till it has become a nuisance. I
think the recent improvement in the lower part of Brooklyn has contributed considerably in
causing fever on this island. Streets are being formed over an extensive marsh, which prevent
the ingress and egress of the tide, and favor the accumulation of fresh water into stagnant
ponds and pools ; and as the same character of disease prevailed in that immediate neighbor-
hood, I infer the identity of cause here.
In the treatment of Diarrhcea among soldiers, I have been successful by free purgation with
saline cathartics, which, with abstinence and a recumbent posture, seldom fail to cure the
patient in a short time ; but when other remedies have been found necessary, opium with cam-
o In 18-10, Assistant Surgeon Joseph P. KusscU reported that, " exclusive of leu hirge cisterns c-apable of containing
many thousand gallons, this post is abundantly supplied from five wells, with excellent water, holding in solution but
small portions of saline or earthy matter." Surgeon De Camp's report was written in 1853. It appears, therefore, that the
water in the wells became graduallj' brackish. — C.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 15
phor, or the compound syrup of rhubarb with tannin, generally succeeds. Recruits are more
subject to that complaint than old soldiers. Taken as they often are from the more humble
walks of life, where they have not been regularly supplied with food and other comforts, reple-
tion soon follows enlistment, and an engorgement of the mucous membrane of the intestines
takes place, producing diarrhoea or other more fatal maladies; hence the good results from un-
loading the vessels by cathaiiic medicines.
I cannot let the present occasion pass without bearing testimony to the value of sulphate of
quinine, and arsenic, and other remedies of that class, in the treatment of disease extending to
a range far beyond what was once supposed. The intermittent character of disease would seem
to be more extensive than some imagine. I am indebted to Doctor Dickson's Chrono-Thermal
System of Medicine for the views which I now entertain upon this subject, and can speak with
confidence of the value of these remedies in rheumatism, asthma, continued fever, and some spas-
modic aifections in children, and in many cases of an anomalous character, the pathology of
which is little understood.
There are fashions in physic as well as fallacies ; there was a time when no one would be
thought so rash as to treat pneumonia or pleuritis without copious and repeated bleeding, and
that such a course will relieve the patient is not doubted ; but experience has shown that the
same result may be obtained by remedies less injurious to the sick. The tartrate of antimony
and potash is well known to possess the power of controlling, to a considerable degree, those
complaints ; and when employed to an extent which may be done with safety, will do away
with the use of the lancet in many cases. This has been the course which I have pursued, and
with satisfactory results. I have made some use of prussic acid in the cases alluded to, with
hajipy effect.
MEDICAL TOPOGKAPHY AND DISEASES OF FOKT WOOD.
Ey Assistant Surgeon Josiah Simpson: 1852.
Fort Wood is situated on Bedloe's Island, in the harbor of New York, in latitude 40° 41' 18",
longitude 74° 11'. It is about two and a half miles southwest of the city of New York, the
same distance from the nearest point of Long Island, about two miles from the New Jersey
shore, and eighteen miles distant from the ocean. The whole island comprises an area of ei^ht
or nine acres ; the most elevated portion, that on which the fort stands, is about 30 feet above
high-water mark.
The soil is a sandy loam based upon a stratum of clay. The slope from the entrance of the
fort to the north point of the island is covered with shade-trees of willow, sycamore, ash, acacia,
and others, which have been brought and planted here. There are no trees of a native growth
on the island.
Outside of the fort are two wells which formerly afforded an ample supj^ly of water for the
garrison ; but during the past summer these failed, and since that time the troops have been
dependent on Croton water, brought from the city of New York. This spring, two cisterns
have been built inside of the work, large cnougla, when filled, to supply the wants of the com-
mand.
The quarters for officers and soldiers are of brick, and occupy three sides of a square witliin
the work; the enclosed area is about 107 feet square. The officers' quarters, of which tliere are
three sets, are two stories, with a basement, and on the north side of the work. Tl e barrack-
rooms for the men, on the east and west sides, are two stories high; the eastern one having a
basement kitchen, and mess-room running its whole length. The quarters are well ventilated,
and comfortable in other resiiects.
The hospital, a new brick building on tlie northeast side of the island, was put up during
the last summer, and first occupied in September last. It is nearly square — 49 by 40 feet — two
stories and a basement iu height. The basement, which is of granite, is eutiiely above ground,
16 REPORT OX THE SICKNESS AXP MORTALITY
and has a hall running its whole length, with a surgeon's room^ dispensary, and steward's
room on one side, a mess-room and kitclien on the other. Tlie first story has two wards on each
side of the hall, with a water-closet and bath-room at the end of the same. In the second story
there are three small wards one side of the hall ; on the other, two, with a water-closet, bath-
room, and store-room between ; and at the end, a small room large enough for one bed. The
building will accommodate from 35 to 40 patients. The wards are well ventilated, having ven-
tilators over the doors, and ventilating flues running up the chimneys, distinct from the smoke
flues. The kitchen is furnished with a range and boiler, and hot and cold water is carried
into the dispensary and bath-rooms. Under the flooring of each story, and between the roof
and ceiling, there is a deafening of three inches of mortar ; this, independently of destroying
the sound of footsteps, renders the building cool in summer and warm in winter.
Tliere are other buildings on the northwest side of the island, occupied by laundresses and
others; these, however, are of a temporary character.
The country to the north and west, on the New Jersey side, is flat and level, and at the dis-
tance of some four or five miles are extensive salt marshes, which have not, as far as I am able
to judge, any injurious effect on the health of the post. The country to the south and east, on
Staten Island and Long Island shore, is rolling, and free from marshes. The prevailing winds
are from the south and southwest in summer, and from the northeast and west in winter.
The principal diseases during the winter and spring are those of the respiratory organs, and
fibrous and muscular tissues. During the summer and fall months, diseases of the digestive
organs prevail to a greater extent at this post, owing to the fact, that the men are all recruits,
and more liable to such diseases in the transit from civil to military life. A large number of
them also are foreigners, recently arrived from an entirely diflerent climate, often after long
passages in crowded and badly ventilated vessels ; these are very liable, on their arrival at the
island, to severe attacks of remittent and typhoid fevers, as well as diarrhoeas and dysenteries.
This post has a great advantage over most others as a depot for recruits, from its perfect iso-
lation, its freedom from malarious influences, and also from that bane of all military as well as
civil establishments, spirituous lirjuors. The advantage afforded during the summer months,
for salt-water bathing, contributes greatly to the health and cleanliness of the command.
aiEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT H^VMILTON.
By Assistant Surgeon Joseph Eaton: 1852.
Fort Hamilton is situated at the southwest corner of Long Island, in the town of New
Utrecht, King's county. New York ; having the North river on the west, and the Atlantic ocean
on the south, in latitude 40° 43' N. , and longitude 74° V W. Its elevation above the level of the
ocean is forty-five feet.
Fort Hamilton is about six miles nearly due south from the city of New York, and nothing
separates it from the broad Atlantic on the southeast but a long sand-bar of a few rods in
width, running from S.E. to N.W. about three miles, called "Coney Island." It may,
therefore, be considered as being subject to, and affected by, all the influences of the ocean.
There is a spacious bay (Maritime bay) which extends along the southern shore of Staten
Island, westwardly to the Jersey shore, about twenty miles. The same bay extends southerly
about fifteen miles, to Sandy Hook.
It can readily be imagined, therefore, how great must be the influence of the ocean and bays
on this location ; and it must, of course, be apparent how often vicissitudes take place in the
temperature of the air, and in the course of the winds. The wind sometimes changes here
twenty times in a day ; and it is not imcommon to see u])on the water two vessels, not far dis-
tant from each other, sailing in opposite directions, and both directly before the wind.
In warm weather, in summer, when the sun has rarefied the air over the land, at about 10 or
11 o'clock, A. M., the dense air from the ocean rushes in, and introduces a cool and refreshing
breeze.
A MONO THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 17
The frequent and sudden changes in temperature do not appear to affect, injuriously, the
young and vigorous who enjoy sound health ; hut are decidedly prejudicial to invalids^ and
particularly those affected with pulmonary and rheumatic complaints. The humidity of the
atmosphere and its variahleness of temperature render it less conducive to health and longevity
than if it were more uniform, and less liahle to great and sudden changes.
The temperature of the ocean is said to he eight or ten degrees colder than the land in sum-
mer, and about the same degrees warmer in the winter. The air from the sea, therefore, has
a powerful effect on the climate.
The geological construction of the land in the vicinity of Fort Hamilton renders the topogra-
2)hy remarkably singular.
From this post toward Brooklyn, along the North river, the land is generally uneven and
undulatory, and there are numerous depressions which have the appearance of artificial excava-
tions; they are generally four or five rods in diameter, and some of them are very deep, and
never dry. More than fifty, I presume, of these depressions might be counted between this
post and Greenwood Cemetery, about four miles north of this. It can be readily conceived
that these numerous stagnant pools, at particular seasons of the year, may affect injuriously the
health of the inhabitants in the immediate vicinity.
This formation is peculiar to the western end of Long Island ; the undulations of the land
extend eastwardly about four miles, to Flatbush, Gravesend, and Flatlands, which towns pre-
sent almost a dead level.
The soil about here is generally a clayey loam ; some places are sandy. On the western end
of Long Island, which I have described, there are no brooks or small streams, and no springs
of water in the land; and, on sinking wells, no water is obtained until arriving at the level of
tide-water ; in consequence, some wells on elevated ground are one hundred feet deep, or more.
The well-water is impregnated with salts of lime, which renders it unfit for washing, but it is
a good and wholesome beverage.
Eastward of Fort Hamilton, at the distance of half a mile, and extending from the sea-shore
to the distance of one mile northerly, and a quarter of a mile in width, is a low bog or quagmire,
called by the Dutch inhabitants "dyker;" it receives the surface water from the high lands in
the vicinity; and being separated from the sea by a sandy beach only, in violent storms the
sea makes a fair breach over the sand, mingling the salt water with the fresh, and, there
being no permanent outlet, the retained water becomes stagnant and putrid. It must be readily
conceived that this is a fruitful source of disease, and in some locations in the immediate vicin-
ity, to the leeward of the prevailing winds (S.E. almost every day in the summer), no persons
can reside without exposing themselves to certain and inevitable sickness. There are other low
and swampy lands in the immediate vicinity of Fort Hamilton, the more perfect drainage of
which would contribute much to the health of this location.
On the sand-beach which I have mentioned above, the British army, under the command of
Sir William Howe, landed on the 22d of August, 17T6, and soon advanced toward Brooklyn.
The disastrous battle of Long Island was fought on the 27th of the same month.
There are indications of great geological changes having taken place on Long Island. The
stones on the surface in this vicinity bear the same rounded form as those on the sea-shore.
Logs of wood and shells are frequently found in digging wells, and in other excavations, from
twenty to forty, and, in some places, more than one hundred feet below the surface.
In sinking wells here, a clayey mixture extends to about twenty feet, when a coarse sand is
found, like that on the sea-shore, containing rounded stones and pebbles. In some places the
bottom of wells, at about 40 or 50 feet, is characterized like the flats or marshes ; and in one
instance within my knowledge, near Fort Hamilton, a well, after being stoned, was entirely
destroyed, the whole wall sunk and disappeared. Appearances, on investigation, go to show
that the greater part, if not the whole of Long Island, is alluvial.
Near Fort Hamilton the ledges and boulders are formed of green-stone (serpentine), granite,
S. 96 3
18
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
and gneiss. The land is mostly cleared and cultivated. The natural growth appears to have
been oak, hickory, chestnut, hirch, cedar, cypress, maple, elm, and sycamore. The soil is
extremely variable; four-fifths of tlie surface are said to be characterized by the term of sandy
loam ; some places contain a stiff clay, and others a pure sand.
The diseases that mostly prevail at this post, are intermittent and bilious fevers. Fevers of
the typlioid type, as tar as 1 have any knowledge, are uncommon. Diarrlitea and dysentery
sometimes prevail. The ordinary remedies are generally found efficient in tlie treatment of the
diseases mentioned.
The quarters at this post for officers and soldiers, and for hospital purposes, are, most unfor-
tunately, casemates ; and I have had full and ample experience to know, having felt the effects
myself, that the dampness, which, from i)liilosophical and chemical j)rinciples, can never be
entirely prevented by any expenditure of money without artificial heat, must be prejudicial to
health. The deleterious effects from administering mercurial remedies to patients in casemates,
at this post, have been frequently and fully reported.
Tliere is no hospital building at this post; and since I have been stationed here, great suffer-
ing and many deaths of sokliers have taken jilace for the want of hospital accommodations.
The 2d regiment of infantry, while here in the fall of 1848, preparing to embark for Cali-
fornia, having just returned from a campaign in Mexico, and having of course suffered from
great fatigue and exjjosure, were deprived of the necessary hospital accommodations here, which
their peculiar situation and condition imperiously required. For want of hospital and other
room, many of the sick were exposed in the large horse-stable, without fire, in the month of
November ; and I have the impression that as many as twenty or thirty died while in this
harbor before the regiment embarked. The regiment was attended by the medical officers who
were witli it in Mexico.
In my opinion, it is a subject of the highest importance, in a military point of view, to
make amjile provision for the accommodation and comfort of the sick at this important military
post, where, in case of any warlike emergency, a large body of troops must of necessity be
assembled.
DISEASES.
The following table, compiled from abstract No. 2, of this division, gives the amount and
ratio of sickness and mortality among the forces stationed in the harbor of New York.
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITT.
(iu.-irters.
Mean strength.
Numbcr treated.
Deaths.
RATIO PER 1,000 or HKiN STRENOTH.
Treated.
Died.
First quarter -
8,806
8,986
10,402
9,353
6,076
7,274
11,805
6,317
50
35
80
47
690
809
1,134
675
6.G
Second quarter
4
Tliird quarter
7.6
5
Annual ratio _.
Exclusive of cholera
9,387
31,472
212
3,353 1 22.5
31,397
183
3,345 19.5
1
The average annual proportion of cases of disease to the number of officers and men was
3.35 to 1 ; the ratio of deaths to the strength of the command was 1 in 44, or 2.25 per cent. ;
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIYISION.
19
and the proportion of deaths to the number of cases treated was 1 in 148.45, or 0.67 per cent.
Exclusive of deaths from cholera, the mortality was 1 in 51, or 1.9 per cent.
FEVERS.
Quarters
THIRD. I FOURTH.
Strengtli
8,806
Febris contiuua communis.
Fcbris intermittens quotidiana
Febris intermittens tertiana .
Febris intermittens quartana.
Febris remittens
Febris typhus
Febris tjplius ittero<los
Total -. 349
i
69
226
4
37
9
8,986 10,402
9,353
Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths.
I
10
12
5 1
122
181
114 '
342
390
310 '
19
73
42
2
75
5
65
3
11
2
8
1
6 1
7
546
9,387
Cases. Deatlis. ■
31
486
1,268
90
219
34
Oin 31
in 486
Oin 1,268
in 96
10
1 in 22
15
lin 2+
739
500
10
2,134 1 25 1 in 85
I
51
135
10
23
4
Respecting intermittent fever at Fort Hamilton, Assistant Surgeon Eaton reports on the 31st
of March, 1844, that no case had occurred "since the great rain of the 21st and 22d of August
last, which iiooded the whole country, and apparently carried away all decayed and jiutrid
matter which caused malaria." The force of this statement is, however, very materially modi-
fied by a preceding report from the same officer, which states that on the 30th of August, 1843,
immediately after the heavy rains referred to, the garrison was entirely changed, the fort being
occuj)ied by troops from Fort Adams, where, as has already been shown, intermittents are not
endemic. The prevalence of this class of diseases at Fort Hamilton in the fourth quarter of
1850, and first quarter of 1851, is attributed to the arrival of troops from a sickly post in
Florida in November, In March following, the health of those troops is reported good.
Tl>e tliirty-one cases of remittent fever reported in the third quarter of 1851, (see abstract,)
occurred at Fort Wood. Assistant Surgeon J. Simpson reports that " fevers of a remittent
type, ami bowel affections, have been prevalent. The fevers in nearly every instance assumed a
typhous character from the commencement. The tongue has been dry, dark, and contracted,
with sordes about the teeth and gums ; the secretions from the .skin and other organs generally
deficient; alvine evacuations dark. Many of the cases have presented severe cerebral sym])-
toms. The treatment pursued in most cases, and which appeared to have the greatest control
over the disease, was, commencing with an emetic of ipecacuanha, and following with small
doses of the same combined with calomel, until the system became slightly under its influence.
As soon as this was the case, there appeared to be an improvement of the symptoms ; tlie secre-
tions were unlocked ; the tongue showed a disposition to clean ; there was a general lessening
of the frequency of the pulse, heat of skin, and cerebral excitement. Gentle stimulation with
carbonate of ammonia, infusion of serpentaria, or some other mild stimulant, was then resorted
to." Of these 31 cases, 5 died.
Eruptive Fevers arc of more frequent occurrence at the stations now under consideration
than at other military posts, owing to their being garrisoned })rincipally by recruits, among
whom measles are not uncommon, and who are sometimes attacked with smallpox before time
is afforded for vaccination. The regulations fu- the medical department of the army do not
enjoin a uuif'orm system of re-vaccination; they iircscribe that, "as soon as a recruit joins any
20
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
regiment or station, he sliall be examined by the medical officer, and vaccinated when it is
required." On referring to the abstract, it will be seen that 25 cases of rubeola are reported,
and 1 death ; 25 cases of variola, and 5 deaths ; and 14 cases of varioloid, all terminating
favorably.
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTH'E SYSTEM.
FIRST,
SECOND.
TUIRD.
KOCRTII.
YEAR.
O
3
z -
o I
§ -
c
o
c
£
u
Strength
8,
806
8,
986
10,
402
fl,
353
9,
387
^ s
i s
o S
■§■3
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Dcatlis.
Cholera Asiatica .. ....
376
48
3
1
3
189
347
7
I
1
1
3
692
45
8
4
3
1
367
356
1
1
1
1
1
71
3293
471
18
2
3
1
566
429
28
5
7
5
1
806
207
11
3
241
228
6
4
2
3
75
5167
771
40
7
9
5
1363
1360
29
18
13
9
1
1
1
3
1 in 2.6
1 in 287
1 in 59
1 in 4.4
in 7
lin 9
lin 5
1 in 1363
1 in 453
550
82
4
0.7
Settatitis acuta -..
0,9
0.5
145
All other diseases of thia sys-
tem - -- -- .--
145
Total
967
10
1479
5
4854
45
1497
15
8797
75
1 in 117
937
1
8722
46
lin 190
929
i
In the third quarter of 1849, the Asiatic cholera appeared at Fort Columbus, Y cases being
reported in July, and 12 in August. Of these 19 cases, 15 proved fatal. The jjost was then
temporarily attended by a citizen physician, who did not make a special report. Tliis disease
again appeared on tlie 11th of August, 1852, six cases occurring that month, 4 of which died.
In the treatment. Surgeon De Camp relied upon calomel, camphor, opium, sinapisms, external
warmth, and stimulants. In one of the cases which recovered, twelve grains of calomel were
given every two hours during the night, commencing at 8, p. m., and on the return of the
vomiting next day, thirty grains of calomel with ten grains of camphor were given at one dose.
In July, 1853, the same surgeon reports two cases of cholera, both terminating in recovery.
The remedies were "large doses of calomel and camphor, and external heat by means of bags
of hot water."
Assistant Surgeon Edward W. Johns reports that "the cholera made its appearance at Fort
Columbus on the 1st July, 1854. Of the 38 cases reported in that month, 30 were restricted
to choleraic diarrhcca, and 8 went into extreme collapse. The treatment, at first, was by calo-
mel and camphor, and occasionally opium, in doses often grains of the former, and five of cam-
phor, every two hours. In the later cases the dose was increased to thirty grains. During this
period, diseases of the bowels were prevalent and urgent in their nature. In the month of
August the epidemic disappeared, and the health of the command was very good until about
the middle of September, when diarrhoea was observed to increase and become more trouble-
some in its nature. On the 23d of September, cholera again re-ajjpeared, and two cases were
received into hospital. On the 24th, three more cases were received, and one on the 25th — in
all, six cases. In none could any cause other than atiiios])licric change be traced, and in each
the disease was suddenly develoj)ed, the patients being received into liospital with commencing
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTUEEN DIVISION.
21
collapse, wlaich in five cases became fully established ; but, with the exception of the sudden
accession of collapse, and the comparatively less apparent frequency of the rice-water dis-
charges, the re-appearance of the disease presented no new point for observation. In each case,
one hundred and thirty grains of calomel and forty grains of camphor were administered in the
course of eight hours ; and as soon as reaction appeared, the calomel was kept up until
it was established, in doses of one grain every hour. In addition to the internal reme-
dies, external heat and friction were sedulously resorted to. Of the two fatal cases, one
died in six hours, and the other, after recovering from the collapse, and for two days
apjiarently improving, finally sank from debility, which resisted all measures for support.
In the treatment of cholera, opium was but little used, as, in addition to its appearing to
possess but little efficacy in restraining the discharges, or in quieting spasmodic muscular
action, the quantity necessary to be given to produce any decided effect, seems to inter-
fere seriously with the proper action of the brain and nervous system, whose every energy
is required for recovery from the collaj^se."
DISEASES OF THE EESPIEATORY SYSTEM.
Quarters - -
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
POCETH.
YEAR.
Proportion of dontha to
fi
Strength .,
8,
806
8,
98G
10,
402
9,
353
9,
387
— i
1 -
S 3
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Ratio
of ni
Bronchitis acuta et chronica .
23
1
62
10
1
22
.
117
3
lin 39
12.4
Catarrhus
1700
1100
802
1185
1
4787
1
1 in 4787
509.9
Phthisis pulmonalis
9
8
15
8
24
8
8
11
56
35
lin 1.6
5.9
Pleuritis
41
2
18
1
12
13
84
3
lin 28
9
Pneumonia
50
7
20
4
6
1
13
1
89
13
1 in 7
9.3
Ail other diseases of this sys-
1
•
tem
' 12
14
2
10
2
16
52
4
lin 13
5.5
Total
1835
18
1229
15
864
12
1257
14
5185
59
lin 88
552
Rheuinatismus
194
1
275
283
260
1012
1
linl012
107 8
Assistant Surgeon J. P. Eussell, in his report for the second quarter of 1843, notes the
appearance of epidemic catarrh at Fort Columbu.s about the 11th of June. "The epidemic
attained its height about the 16th or ITth, when nearly one-third of all the people in the gar-
rison (men, women, and children) became more or less severely afliicted ; many of the cases
were extremely severe, and required free venesection and active antiphlogistic treatment to
prevent inflammation and congestion of the lungs." This epidemic also appeared at Fort
Hamilton in June, 1843, where some cases were so severe as to require bleeding.
NORTH INTEEIOR REGION— EAST OF THE GREAT LAKES.
This class embraces those stations of the northern division which are situated between the
Great Lakes and the Atlantic ocean, and so far removed from either, as not to be influenced by
those large bodies of water. The stations occupied are six in number : Fort Kent, Fort Fair-
field, Hancock Barracks, Plattsburg Barracks, Watervliet Arsenal, and West Point.
22 REPORT ON TUE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT KENT,
By Assistant Surgeon Alexander S, Wotherspoon : 1845.
Fort Kent is .situated in tlie most northern part of the 8tate of Maine, at the junction of the
Fish river with the St. Jolui's, in hititude 4T° 15' N., h)ngitudc G8° 38' W. In a direct line,
it is about 60 miles distant from the St. Lawrence, and 180 from the sea, above which it is ele-
vated 556 feet. The St. John's, oi)j)osite the fort, is about ^ of a mile in width ; and during
summer, when not swollen by heavy rains, is full of bars and rapids, so as to be only naviga-
ble by light wooden and birch canoes, or by small flat-boats, towed by horses along the shore.
The Fish river, a rapid stream of some size, is the outlet of the large Eagle Lakes, and is said to
carry oif the suri)lus water of some 200 square miles of surface. The whole country is intersected
by chains of hills, running from W. to E., of a height varying from 200 to 600 feet above the
level of the river; the valleys between them being occupied by rapid streams, or lakes of varia-
ble size.
The barracks and officers' quarters are situated upon a level plain, 40 feet above the river,
extending back in a southerly direction to the foot of the hills, a distance of a quarter of a mile.
The soil is a light loam, which rests upon a stratum of gravel and ])ebbles. On passing through
this, is found a bed of tough blue clay, reposing upon an argillaceous slate rock. This slate is
found cropping out in large masses on the side-hills, and extends on the south to the valley of
the Aroostook, where a transition limestone, with trilobites and other fossils, takes its place.
In consequence of its geological formation, the drainage of the land is excellent, and numerous
springs of fine water are found in every direction. With the exception of the immediate bank
of the St. John's, and a few scattered farms on the road which connects the settlement with the
military road at Wattawamkeag, the whole country is still covered by a dense, unbroken forest.
The harder woods, different varieties of the maple, beech, birch, and ash, are found on the more
elevated and the more rocky soil, while the lower grounds are occupied by the spruce, fir, larch,
and cypress. The white and yellow pines, which produce the fine lumber, the staple of the
coimtry, are found scattered through the forest, generally more or less isolated and distant
from eacli other. Large elms are generally seen on the interval lands; the generality of the
forest-trees, however, with the exception of the pines, are of a rather diminutive size.
There is very little game in the immediate vicinity of the fort ; occasionally moose, carriboo,
and deer are seen; but these animals are said to be fast deserting the country. Two species of
wolf, the loup cervis, bear, and glutton, are sometimes shot or taken in traps; and a few bea-
ver, otter, sable, and mink skins, are brought for sale by the hunters. Wild jjigeons, par-
tridges, and ducks arc found in inconsiderable numbers. The river and lakes are, however,
well stocked with trout, togue, and other fine fish. During the summer months the insects are
very numerous, and very annoying. Mosquitoes appear in immense numbers, often before the
snow has left the woods; a species of sand-fly, called by the Indians "no see 'ems," are also
very troublesome; but the most venomous of all, is the "lilack fly," an insect of a dark-colored
body and grey limbs, about one-fourth the size of the ordinary house-fly. This little insect
perforates the skin without causing pain, leaving a small^ red, circular jnark, generally found
covered with a clot of hardened blood. In a short time the integument around the puncture
swells, hardens, and itches intolerably. These small tumors remain for two or three days,
gradually disappearing, and occasionally leaving a small scar. When the bites are numerous,
and the person attacked of an irritable temperament, the face and bands become severely in-
flamed and swollen, with oedema of the eyelids, and febrile symptoms of some intensity. The
application of the aq: ammon: to the bite allays the itching, and prevents much of the subse-
quent inflammation. The only possible method of remaining in the woods during a warm, clear
day, is to smear the exposed surfaces with some oily and odoriferous substance, such as oil of
cami)hor.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. ^3
The climate, at this post, is almost Siberian in its rigor ; the mean temperature for the year
ending June, 1845, being 35.90. The long, dreary winter commences during the last weeks
in October, when repeated falls of snow cover the ground, to remain unmelted until the succeed-
ing spring. The St. John's is generally frozen across by the last of NoTember; some of the
largest rapids remain open until tlie middle of December. From Xovember to the last of March,
the thermometer, every clear night, falls below zero ; and in January and February the mer-
cury is sometimes frozen in the bulb. This phenomenon was twice witnessed during the month
of February, 1845. Fortunately, during the intensely cold weather of mid-winter, the atmo-
sphere is perfectly calm, and the woodsmen are able to work in the open air without injury. In-
deed, the number of those who suffer from exposure is wonderfully few — no doubt, in some
measure, owing to the precautions they take to defend themselves from the cold. A limiberman
always wears from two to three thick red flannel shirts, a species of woolen blouse or loose
jacket, a couple of pairs of drawers with overalls, generally three or four pairs of woolen socks
and a huge pair of cowhide boots. The snow, which by the middle of March is often five or
six feet deep, begins to melt by the last of that month ; disappearing from the open fields by
the middle of April, but often remaining in the woods until after the 1st of June. The rivers
generally open from the 15th to the 30th of April, the lakes remaining frozen some two or
three weeks longer. Immediately on the breaking up of the river ice, the spring freshets com-
mence ; the rivers remaining swollen until the snow in the forest is completelv melted. A
second, called the June freshet, sometimes succeeds the heavy rains which are usually looked
for in that month. Killing frosts are generally experienced through the month of May. On
the 4th of June, 1844, ice one-third of an inch in thickness was seen. The last killing frost in
1845 occurred on the 31st of May. White frosts occur repeatedly during the summer months
and the thermometer, on a clear night with a northerly wind, sinks to 34° or 33°. These frosts
very seldom injure even the most tender garden vegetables. The transition from winter to
summer is very sudden ; the trees put forth their foliage, and the various plants spring up with
singular rapidity. I have repeatedly, in the woods, found flowers in full bloom, by the side of
masses of the yet unmelted snow. The snow covers the groiAd so early in the fall, that the
earth is rarely frozen to any depth, so that immediately upon its disappearance, agricultural
operations can be commenced, thoygh, owing to the coldness of the season, very little plantino-
is done before the 1st of June. The first swallows make their appearance during the last week
of May. I found the acer ruhrum (red maple) in bloom on the 16th of May, the aronia hotrya-
pium (shad bush) on the 23d, the betula jiojmli/olia (birch) on the 7th, and the sorhus Ameri-
cana (mountain ash) on the 26th of June. The fragaria Canadensis (the wild strawberry)
is generally in blossom by the 1st of June, and the first ripe berries are found during the first
week in July. Occasionally, during the summer months, when southerly or southwesterly
winds prevail for two or three successive days, the weather becomes very warm and oppres-
sive, the thermometer rising to 94 or 95 in the shade ; but generally it is sufficiently cool
to wear the ordinary winter clothing of warm climates. A striking ])cculiarity of the months
of June and July is the sudden and frequent squalls of rain and hail, which occur when the
wind blows fresh from the W. or N.W. In the months of August and September, mornino-
togs occur, rising from the rivers and lakes, spreading over the adjacent lands, and disappearing as
the sun gets high. They form an admirable protection to the low lands from the early autum-
nal frosts, which make their ajjpearance during the last of August. Harvest commences the
last week in July, when the crops of grass are generally in a fit state to cut. Oats and other
grains ripen about the 1st of September, and have often to be reaped while still green. Nothing
is more common than for whole fields of green grain to be cut down by the frosts. The potatoes,
the main food of the poorer inhabitants, are dug during the early part of October, and very
often after the ground is covered with snow.
The prevailing winds are from the W. and N.W. The mean quantity of rain falling du-
ring the ten montns ending June 30th, 1845, was 2 61 inches. It is the southerly and easterly
24 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
■winds that bring the heavy rains. The proportion of cloudy days considerahly exceeds that of
clear ones. The hygronietrical oLservations wonld seem to indicate that, in general, tlio atmo-
sphere around Fort Kent is unusually i'rce from af^ueous vajjors.
The settlers on the St. John's are mostly of French origin, many of them descendants of the
old Acadians, who, driven by tlie En«^lish from Kova Scotia, settled at St. Anne's, now Freder-
ickton, N. B., whence a number of families i'ound their way to Madawaska. The first settle-
ment was made in 17S3. They have, from time to time, received a considerable addition to
their numbers from the Canadas, particularly during tlie hist few years. Tlie population of the
whole settlement in 1840 was 3,4G0 — on the American side of the river, 1,584; on tlie Britisli,
1,876. The first American settlers came into the country about thirty years since. They
remained very few in numbers, until the impulse given by the lumber trade induced many,
within the last five years, to clear lands on.the upper St. John's. The French are a gay, care-
less, rather improvident people; like their ancestors, passionately fond of dancing and the
music of the violin ; devout Catholics, extremely bigoted and ignorant, and completely under the
control of their priest.s. Their morals are generally good, and they are not often intemperate.
They are generally of a small stature, and in this respect present a striking contrast to the
tall, athletic lumbermen from Maine and New Brunswick. Most of them are of a nervous,
excitalde temperament, easily lose their presence of mind in moments of difficulty, and have
obtained but little reputation for moral or jihysical courage. The poorer classes depend for
their subsistence upon their fields of potatoes, which, with milk, bread of unbolted flour mixed
with rye, barley, or buckwheat, often very l)lack, very sour, and very badly baked, and a little
pork, forms their princijjal living. Those that are richer fare better, though the living of the
best of these would be considered poor enough by an American farmer. They raise barley,
rye, oats, and potatoes; wheat is too uncertain a crop to be depended upon. The only garden
vegetable universally cultivated is the onion, which forms a very marked ingredient in all their
cooking. Tliey live, for the most part, in huts built of logs; the chinks filled with moss and
clay, heated within by a huge iron stove. A rickety table, two or three stools, a straw bed
and coverlets, and a few cooking titensils, form the sum total of the furniture. The houses of the
more respectable and wealthier inliabitants are formed of timbers neatly squared and closely
fitted, divided internally into several apartments, often very comfortably furnished, and neatly
arranged. The chimneys of all are formed of clay, moulded over a framework of wooden slats.
The people are warmly clad during the winter in woolen fabrics of their own weaving; their
feet protected from the cold by woolen socks and moccasins of moose-hide or untanned
leather.
They marry at an early age, particularly the females. One couijle, who dwell a short dis-
tance from the fort, was married when the husband was 13 and the wife 14 years of age; an
instance occurred, since my residence in the country, of the marriage of a girl of 13 years,
who had never menstruated; and this, I am told, is by no means uncommon.
Some of the families are rather remarkable in point of numbers. Twelve living within a
mile of the garrison, and taken without exception, have had in all 93 children, and been mar-
ried in the aggregate 1C2 years; a child every 20i months. The wife of Jacques Camel (the
father of one of these families) has been married 11 3'ears, and had 7 children, all now living,
except the eldest, who died at the age of 4 years. During the whole of these 11 years, she has
never seen her monthly periods but once. Her second child was born exactly nine months after
her first accouchement; her third the same period after the second. She has always been in
the habit of nursing her children from one Inrtli to another.
Burgoyne, xt. 59, residing at Green river, has had 20 cliildren — 18 by his first wife, 2 by
his second. She is now enciente. His eldest daughter has been married ten j-ears, and has
had eight children. His mother had three pairs of twins.
Larent Terriand, at the same place, has had twenty-six children by one wife; the motlier had
her last infant at the ajje of 53.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 25
Buonavenhire Le Grog, in eighteen years, liad nineteen children ; of these, five pairs were
twins.
Thibadeanx, now 66 years of age, has had 22 cliildren by two wives — 10 by the first, 12 by
the second. Buonaventure Lisotte, at the age of 27, married Julia Martin at 19. He is now
51, she 4o. Tliey have had 17 chihlren; and 4 pairs were twins.
Jeriuan Cire has had 22 cliildren, all single births; his wife was married at the age of 14,
and is now 43.
Jerman Michaux has had 20 children by two wives ; the youngest of these is 4 years of age.
He Ls now 59, she 45 years old.
The wife of Isaac Bialette, aged 42, has had 19 children.
The wife of Pierre Eichor, at Chatia Corner, has had in three years three successive twin
births; all 6 children are now living. ,
Mr. Webber, the Massachusetts land agent, who took the census in 1830, saw in one log
hut a woman with 5 children under 3^ years ; one twin and one triplet birth. She was then
pregnant a third time.
There are six families at Green river, living within the space of a mile, who have had, in all,
lOG children; an average of 17.66 each.
They are attended during their confinements by the older women, some of whom hare
acquired considerable rejjutation in the management of obstetrical cases. They do not hesi-
tate, when the labor does not progress with sufficient rajjidity, to seize upon the presenting
part, and efiect the delivery by main force. In an arm presentation, tlie midwife fairly tore the
child to i^ieces, effecting a delivery by means of a common kitchen pot-hook ; and what is rather
singular, the mother recovered without any serious trouble resulting. They leave their beds
often within twenty-four hours after the birth of the child, to attend to their customary house-
hold employments. In consequence of this, their rapid child-bearing, and the hard labor to
which they are occasionally subjected, the great majority of the females, particularly when
advanced in life, suffer from prolapsus uteri and leucorrhcea. Uterine hemorrhages are also
of very frequent occurrence.
In 38 cases, the average date of the first appearance of the menses was 13.5 years; in one
case commencing at 11, in the most protracted at 19 years. To compare with these, I have pro-
cured the ages at which the only eight American girls who have been raised on the river, first
menstruated. The average date was 15.12 years — the youngest at 14, the eldest at 16. As the
Americans have a decided superiority in manner of living, use better and more stimulating
food, wear warmer and more comfortable clothing — all of which causes would tend to accele-
rate the period of pubert}' — it would seem that race, as well as climate, has ^reat influence in
the matter. I have been able to obtain but few observations'concerning the period of the men-
strual flux. In three cases, it ceased at the ages of 43, 46, and 51 years.
During the fall, winter, and spring months, the forest becomes peopled by a floating popula-
tion of lumbermen, whose number varies from 2,000 to 3,000. In the months of August and Sep-
tember they arrive at the fort, on their way to the lumber camps of the upper St. John's, and
its various tributaries. They have generally spent the larger portion of their last year's wages
in wild frolic and dissipation, and many of them are suflering from gonorrhoea, venereal, and
the effects of a too great indulgence in spirituous liquors. On arriving at the seat of their
operations, they build their camps — small huts of logs, with low sloping sides, and a large
hole in the centre of the roof to allow the smoke to ascend into the open air. They, for the
most part, live extremely well, particularly the American parties. They are amply supplied
with wheat flour of an excellent quality, codfish, molasses, dried apples, good pork, and
occasionally fresh beef. The men seem cheerful and happy, and certainly enjoy extraordinary
health. All the day they are actively engaged in the open air, cutting and hewing the timber,
or conveying it to the banks of the various streams, from whence it is to be floated to the
market at St. John's. One firm, who employed in the woods, during the past winter, over 300
s. 96 1
26 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
men, informed me that only tliree out of the number left their camps, and tliat none of these
were seriously ill. The same state of good health prevailed in most of the other parties who
were encamped above tlie fort, on the St. John's and its branches. Two cases of simple frac-
ture — one of the fibula, the other of the clavicle — and a few incised wounds from careless blows
with the axe, were the only accidents that came under my care during the past winter. In
consequence of tlieir uncleanly habits, and a gross stimulating diet, they freiiucntly suffer from
cutaneous diseases, particularly the different varieties of eczema and lichen. Severe attacks
of lichen agrius were found ])erfectly manageable rmder a system of alteratives, gentle
laxatives, a complete change of diet, and a due regard to cleanliness. The same causes, with
the irritation of the smoke (often very troublesome in the camps), renders the tinea ciliaris,
with slight inflammation of the meibomian follicles, a very common affection. Another dis-
ease of the eyes, to which not only lumbej-men and teamsters, but all others who are much in
the open air, are subject, is hemeralopia. It is most common in the months of March and
April, when the length of the days has become considerable, and the men are exposed during
this time to the bright light reflected from the snow, which covers the whole surface of the
ground. It would doubtless be a complaint of much greater severity, and much more frequent
occurrence, were it not that the proportion of cloudy days considerably exceeds that of clear
ones. The cases, not very numerous, were easily cured by confinement to dark apartments,
and avoidance of exposure to the exciting cause.
I have met with a considerable number of cases of dyspepsia among these lumbermen, tlie
disease originating from the gross nature of their diet, aided no doubt by the large quantities
of salreratus which the camp cooks mix with their flour, to lighten their bread. On breaking
a loaf, it is frequently found full of portions of a yellowish or yellowish-green tinge, rather
disagreeable to an uninitiated taste, but preferred by the men, who insist upon its use. A com-
plete change of diet, with alterative and anodyne medicines, generally effected a cure in a very
short time.
When the rivers open in the spring, about the middle or last of April, the lumbermen take
advantage of the freshet to "drive" their timber to market. For two or three weeks, the
men employed on this duty are engaged from sunrise to dark in setting free the logs of timber,
often many tons in weight, which have caught and grounded on the bars or shores during the
rise or fall of the water. During the whole of this time, they are using the moSt violent exer-
tions, with their lower extremities constantly immersed in water of an extremely low temper-
ature. They lie down at night, weary and exhausted, without changing their clothes, in front
of a camp-fire, or on the floor of some convenient hut. From this exposure, rheumatic affec-
tions originate, not often of the acute form, but mostly subacute and chronic; and to these they
often remain martyrs through a loiig life. It is a little singular, tliat during the two "driving"
seasons I have been at the post, only two cases of bronchitis and one of tonsillitis have presented
themselves for treatment, and attributed their maladies to this exposure. Not a single case of
pneumonia or pleurisy. Some of these parties are allowed the free use of spirituous liquors,
while others are conducted on the temperance plan.
Several cases of scurvy have placed themselves under my care ; the disease makes its appear-
ance in the spring months, in those who have been unusually restricted to a salt diet. This
malady prevailed in former years to a very considerable extent, and used to be of frequent oc-
currence among the provincial camps on the Restigouche. Only one of the cases under my
charge was of any severity. The man had been left at a camp on the Black river, in charge of
some cattle, with no other provisions than salt pork and flour. Had he not been providentially
discovered by some timber explorers, he would have perished in the wilderness. When brought
by canoe to the fort, he presented some of the worst features of the disease — extreme debility ;
soft, spongy, ulcerated, and bleeding gums; subcutaneous effusions of blood, &c. He speedily
recovered under the ordinary antiscorbutic treatment.
The region adjacent to Fort Kent is probably one of the healthiest within the limits of the
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 27
United States, and, though rigorous, the climate seems to be productive of the most robust
health. Fevers and other diseases of a malarious origin are unknown, and other acute diseases
are by no means of common occurrence.
In the fall and early winter months, and again in the spring, pulmonary affections princi-
pally pneumonia and pleurisy, present themselves for treatment. They are by the patients
generally ascribed to colds, caught while exposed during a state of profuse perspiration. The
cases under my care have been of a mild character, yielding readily to general antiphlogistic
treatment. During seventeen months, out of 94 cases admitted into the hospital, there were
two of bronchitis, and five of catarrh ; all of these last were trivial cases, which remained
under treatment an average of two days each. This freedom from catarrhal diseases is no doubt
in a great measure owing to the peculiar dry bracing atmosphere of this region. While on the
sea-coast, I found that catarrhal diseases originated not so much from sudden vicissitudes of
temperature, as from a simultaneous change in the hygrometric condition of the atmosphere.
A sudden change from a comparatively dry and warm westerly or northwesterly wind, to a
cold damp air from the northeast or east, was certain to send its quota of sick to the hospital,
with the various forms of catarrhal disease ; while an equally sudden change from a warm
southerly, to a cold northwesterly, was unattended by the same results. The variations of
temperature, in the two instances, were equally great ; but in the first, the surface of the body,
at the same time that it was chilled by air of a low temperature, came in contact with an at-
mosphere already nearly saturated with moisture, and whose capacity for containing an in-
creased quantity was consequently much diminished. Here two causes combine to produce a
sudden check of the cutaneous secretions; some other portion of the system takes on itself an
increase of duty, and catarrhal inflammation is the result. At Fort Kent, these two causes are
seldom or never combined ; for the only winds tliat are moist and bring rain in any quantity,
come from the south and southeast, and both of them are attended by an increased warmth,
tending to relax the surface ; while, on the other hand, the cold winds from the north and
northwest always bring an increased dryness of the atmosphere.
The climate of Fort Kent, like that of the colder regions of northern Europe, does not seem
favorable for the production of pulmonary phthisis. During my sojourn at the post, I have
neither seen nor heard of a case of this disease among the French or American settlers. As-
sistant Surgeon Isaacs, who, during the two years he was resident at the fort, had a much
better opportunity than myself of becoming acquainted with the diseases of the country, in-
forms me, not onh'^ that he never saw a case of consumption in the country, but that some of
the inmates of the garrison, who were afi'ected with suspicious symptoms, recovered from them
entirely. The present revenue officer at the post, a man of decidedly scrofulous temperament,
had sufiered a slight attack of hasmoptysis, and other symptoms of incipient pulmonary disease,
when he was ordered to this post. Tliough liable to catch cold when exposed, his cough no
longer troubles him : he has gained flesh and strength, and considers himself free from the
disease. A careful examination of the chest, in this case, gave no marked results ; yet I have
no doubt, from his symptoms, that when ordered to Fort Kent he was suflering under tiiber-
cular deposition in the lungs. One case of phthisis occurred in an artificer of company G, Ist
artillery, a man hereditarily disposed to the disease, and having it fully developed before his
arrival at the post. He remained for a year in tolerable health, until much exposed to hard
labor in the midst of the melting snows of March and April, when tlie disease became more
marked, and he was forced to enter the hospital. As his term of service had nearly expired,
and he was desirous of visiting his friends, lie was allowed a furlough, without remaining any
length of time under treatment.
The children in and near the garrison have generally enjoyed the best of health, and have
been afllicted with none of those complaints so common in warmer climates. It has frequently
been made the subject of remark by the mothers, how vast the difference in this respect between
Fort Kent and their former posts. For the last seven months, with the exception of a couple
/
2S REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
of cases of cczeinu, iiiid one or two slight pectoral affections, I do not romeinlxT to liave been
called to prescribe for a single sick child.
The goitre is not an uncommon complaint in the settlement, attacking here, as elsewhere,
mostly females, and those after the age of puberty. The disease appears to be gradually disap-
pearing. Some twenty-five years since, it was so common that very few of the females were
unafl'ected, and even sheep and other cattle were to be seen with large swellings of the throat.
It is supposed by the inhabitants to originate from the use of the river water ; but this can
hardly be the case, as the same water has been freely used by those living on the lower St.
John's, and vet a case of bronchocelc has never been seen below the Grand Falls. It has
attacked tlie Aijierican settlers as well as those of French origin. In one young American girl,
a?t. 15, it appeared after she had been in tlic country about a year ; in two otliers, after they
had lived on the river a longer time. In two of these cases, the disease was cured by a removal
from the country.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT FAIRFIELD.
By Assistant Surgeon llicliard II. Coolidge : 1843.
Fort Fairfield is situated on the south bank of the Aroostook river, in latitude 40° 40', lon-
gitude 67° 49', about six miles from its confluence with the St. John's, and about two miles
east of the boundary-line as recently surveyed by the United States. It is 200 miles distant
from the ocean, above which it is elevated 415 feet, and about 100 miles from the St. Lawrence.
The eminence on which the fort is placed rises 100 feet above the river, which is here about
180 yards in width. The land in the vicinity is rolling, swelling into elevated ridges, and,
with exception of the immediate banks of the river, covered witli a dense forest abounding in
trees valuable for ships and other purposes. The most common are the white and yellow pine,
wliifh form staple articles of export ; the sugar and otlier varieties of maple ; the beech, birch,
ash, fir, spruce, and cypress. The coptis trifolia and asaruni Canadensis arc found in abtmd-
ance. The soil abounds in limestone, and is uncommonly productive. Notwithstanding the
hyperborean rigor of the climate, wheat sowed in the fall yields an abundant harvest, owing
to the fact that the ground is covered with snow from November till May. The transition frt>m
winter to summer is very rapid; the trees put fbrtli their leaves, and wild flowers bloom, wliile
masses of snow remain in the forests. Field strawberries ripen about the 1st of July. The
ice in the river generally breaks up about the middle of April. The thermometer here has a
range of 122°, rising to 98° in summer, and falling to — 24° in winter. This is at the hours
appointed for making meteorological observations ; but the actual range is even greater, the
maximum being 100°, and the minimi;m so low as to freeze the mercury in the bulb. The
prevailing winds are from the N. and N.W.
Game is not very abundant. The principal varieties are the moose, carriboo, deer, and bear.
Wolves are very numerous, and in winter are sometimes troublesome, occasionally appearing
in the roads in the daytime, and following and sometimes attacking travellers. The lakes
abound in trout, and the river in the finest salmon during the season, when they ascend the
St. John's, and pass the falls of the Aroostook, to deposit their spawn upon the clear pebbly
bottom of that stream. The Aroostook falls 102 feet within a distance of a mile and a half,
by a succession of rapids and cascades, the largest of which has a perpendicular fall of about
12 feet. It is only the largest and most powerful of the salmon that succeed in ])assing this
fall, and these frequently make several unsuccessful eflbrts before accomplishing that object.
Mosquitoes appear early in summer, in immense numbers, and also a species of fly, called by
the Indians " no see 'ems" . These are so numerous and troublesome in the woods, as to render
some protection for the hands and face absolutely necessary. The officers engaged in the
boundary survey were .compelled to resort to the use of camphor or creosote ointments, as a
measure of protection.
Numerous opportunities have occurred for examining the auroi-a iiorealis, and my attention
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 29
has been directed to the occasional formation of clouds, emitting silent lightning, in the vicinity
of the streamers ; the remaining portion of the sky continuing as before, unclouded. This
phenomenon was beautifully disjilayed on the evening of the 1st of July, 1843. At 9.45,
p. M., the sky being perfectly clear, numerous brilliant streamers, having the form of inverted
cones, appeared midway between the zenith and the northern horizon. A brisk wind then
sprung up from the S.S.E, and a few black clouds passed to the N.N.W. At 10, p. si., a
beautiful luminous arch was seen rapidly extending itself from the eastern horizon to the
west, having an apparent breadth of four or five degrees ; its central and highest portion, when
fully formed, being in the zenith. A distinct luminous wave was seen moving from the eastern
extremity of this arch to its western ; the arch itself moving slowly south. In fifteen minutes
after the complete formation of the arch, its eastern extremity was invisible, and it progres-
sively disappeared, the western extremity being longest visible. During this time, a large
black cloud formed in the west, emitting sheets of vivid lightning, which continued fifteen or
twenty minutes after the disappearance of the arch. No clouds had passed over to the west ;
the wind blowing steadily from the S.S.E. , and all the clouds passing to the X.N.W. It was
observed that the cloud in the west spread toward the south as the arch moved in that direction.
I have thought this observation worthy of note, as tending to identify the aurora borealis with
electricity.
This post is uncommonly salubrious ; the climate, though rigorous, is uniform for long periods,
and does not appear favorable to the development of phthisis, or of other affections of the
respiratory system. The country is very little settled, but, so far as my observation extends, no
case of consumption has occurred, either in the permanent inhabitants or among the numerous
parties of lumbermen, who pass the entire winter in the open air, and are the most hardy and
athletic of men. The diet of these men consists principally of pork, bread, sugar, and tea, of
which large quantities are drank daily. Alcoholic stimulants are rarely, if ever, found in tlieir
camps, tea being the substitute. In the command, two cases of phthisis have occurred : one,
complicated with extensive pleurisy, with effusion on the right side, proved rapidly fatal ; the
other, though well marked — a large cavity having formed in the superior lobe of the right lung,
attended with such extreme emaciation that at one time death was daily expected — recovereil ; a
result which I attribute to the invigoi-ating effects of this climate^ and to the use of iodine
internally. More than a year has elapsed since the subject of this disease returued to duty,
during which time he has been fully exposed to tlie vicissitudes of the weather. He is now
healthy and robust.
The diseases are generally of a sthenic character, requiring free antiphlogistic treatment.
HANCOCK BARRACKS.
Hancock Barracks is located in the town of Houlton, Maine, latitude 46° 7', longitude 67°
49'. It is distant from the Baj^ of Fundy 180 miles, and from the ocean 156 miles, above which
it is elevated 620 feet. The surrounding coimtry presents an undulating aspect. The position
is circumscribed by a range of hills, intersected at two points by the Meduxnekeag, a small, rapid
stream, which runs through the town about half a mile from the fort. The barracks, situated
upon a liill, are of wood, and are arranged in the form of a parallelogram, ojien to the south.
The hospital, two stories high, also of wood, is dry and well ventilated. The drainage is
jierfect.
The season of summer is short, and, as frosts frequently occur before its close, the destruction
of vegetation is not unusual. In the winter, snow falls to a great depth, and remains upon the
ground during the whole season. The thermometer has a range of 125°; the maximum 99°,
the minimum — 26°. The average mean temperatures, deduced from seventeen years of observa-
tion, are: spring, 39.15; summer, 63.33; autumn, 43.15 ; winter, 16.41 ; year, 40.15. The
mean animal precipitation in rain and snow is 36.97 inches.
Assistant Surgeon L. Sprague reports, in 1839, that "this station .surpasses most others in
30 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS ANP MORTALITT
its freedom from sickness. Cold as the winter is, and damp as the autumn and spring are ren-
dered by frequent rains, persons who have suffered from weak chest find their complaints much
mitigated by a residence here. Consumjition is rarely seen among the inhabitants of the town,
and many persons, who were predisposed to tliat disease, have continued in good health, free
from cough, and have had their constitutions invigorated and improved."
PLATTSBURG BARRACKS.
This station is on the west shore of Lake Champlain, about a mile from the town of Platts-
burg, State of Xew York, in latitude 44° 41', longitude 73° 25', and about 310 miles north
from the Atlantic ocean, above which it is 186 feet. The Saranac, a small river which rises in
a range of lakes of the same name, forty miles southwest, discharges itself into Lake Champlain
at this jioint. There are no extensive marshes in this vicinity. A range of mountains borders
the lake on the west, and on the east the Green Mountains of Vermont are to be seen through-
out its wliole extent. The w;?ather is very variable: sudden and great changes frequently
occur. The thermometer has an extreme range of 124°, being 100° in summer, and — 24° in
winter ; the mean annual temperature, deduced from eleven years of observation, being 44°.
The mean annual precipitation in rain and snow is 33.39 inches. The prevailing winds are
from the S and S.W. ; those from the south are often very cold, and accompanied with snow
or rain.
W A T E R V L I E T ARSENAL.
This post is situated on the A\est bank of the Hudson river, a few miles above Albany, and
nearly opposite to Troy. The locality is surrounded by hills and an elevated back country.
No medico-topographical report of this station can be found on the files of the Medical Bureau.
WEST POINT.
West Point is situated on the west bank of Hudson river, in latitude 41° 23', longitude 74°,
about midway in that part of the river called the Highlands; 50 miles from the ocean, and
170 from Lake Champlain. The public buildings are on a plain about a mile square, having
in its rear a range of hills of from 600 to 1,400 feet in height. On each side of this plain there
are ravines that serve to carry off the great floods of water, which descend from the adjacent
hills after heavy rains or spring freshets. The soil is gravelly, with frequent ledges of rock,
either just below the surface, or rising above it in the form of boulders. The nearest marshy
ground is on the opposite side of the river, and about a mile distant.
The mean annual temperature of this post, as determined by observations continued for
thirty-one years, is 50.78, with an extreme range of 111°; rising in summer to 100°^ and fall-
in winter to — 11°. The prevailing winds are from the N.W. and S. The annual quantity
of rain is about 53 inches. There are no diseases which can be considered peculiar to this
station; acute inflammatory diseases are rare. Indeed, the sick report is mostly made up of
slight complaints and injuries. The spring and autumn are most productive of severe catarrhal
affections and rheumatism ; the summer, of disorders of the digestive organs ; and the winter is
decidedly tlie most healthy period of the year. From December to March, particularly in the
coldest, and, of course, driest winters, it often occurs that, out of eight hundred persons, there
is not, for weeks together, one seriously sick.
DISEASES.
The diseases occurring among the troops stationed in the region now under consideration,
will be statistically given in two abstracts — one for West Point, and one consolidated for the
other stations. This course is necessary, because the unusually high ratio of disease at West
AMONG THE TOOOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
31
Point depends not upon the peculiarities of its position, but upon the fact that the command
consists almost entirely of cadets, students in the Military Academy, who^ when suffering from
headache or other slight indisposition, can only obtain respite from academical studies or
military exercises by having their names registered on the sick-report. A mere glance at the
abstract will suffice to show this ; the majority of the cases reported being under the head of
"catarrhus," "cephalagia^" and " all other diseases ;" which last were mainly slight indis-
positions, sore feet, toothache, and other minor disabilities.
The following table, compiled from abstract No. 3 for this division, exhibits the amount of
sickness and mortality at West Point during the period under review:
TABLE EXHIBITINCi THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITT.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
RATIO PER 1,000
OF HEAS STREKOTB.
Treated.
Died.
6,855
6,565
^ 7,035
7,U9
7,325
7,627
8,918
7,770
6
8
15
2
1,068
1,161
1,267
1.086
0.9
Second quarter
1.2
2. 1
Fourth quarter
0.2
Annual ratio
6,901
31.640
31
4,584
4.4
Exclusive of cholera
31,635
28
4.584
4.
This table shows that the annual proportion of cases treated to the mean strength has averaged
4.58 to 1 ; that the ratio of deaths to the number of men was 1 in 222, or 0.4 of one per cent;
and that the proportion of deaths to the number of cases treated was 1 in 1021, or less than
0,1 of one per cent.
During the ten years from 1829 to 1838, inclusive, the sickness at this post averaged 4.5 per
cent., and the mortality 0.3 of one per cent.
FEVERS.
J
s
? ; £ M
strength
6,855
6,565 7,035 7,149
6,901
T3 .
1°
o
c
s
0.
I it
1"
■1%
Diseases.
Cases
Deatbs.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths. Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
= S
^ o
Febria continua commnnia
Febris intermittens quotidiana. .
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana...
F^'bris rpni'tt^ns
71
10
25
1
1
1
90
8
157
8
3
1
Ill
U
252
1
15
95
i 9
70
7
t 4
1
1
367
71
504
8
28
6
1
1
1
1
1 in 367
Oin 71
Oin 504
Oin 8
1 in 28
lin 6
Oin 1
53
10
73
1+
4
1
1_
Febris typhus icterodes
1
Total
108 1
266 1 42.i n ISfi 1
985
3
lin 328
142
32
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
The sick reports are without comment respecting febrile diseases proper; and the only remark
in regard to cru])tive i'evcrs is by Surgeon Clias. McDougall, in his re])ort for the third quarter,
1847, wliicli is as follows: "The case of erysipelas was one of uncommon violence, iu wliich
the vital powers seemed to be so much oppressed by congestion, as to threaten a fatal terniina-
tion. Tlie specific jiowers of the sulphate of quinine, in large doses, were eminently dis]dayed
iu the case, in not only clianging the congestive condition, but in arresting the disease itself."
DISEASES OF Till': ORGANS CONNECTED WI'l'lT 'rill-; DIGES'n\n5 SYSTEM.
Quarters .. ---
FlKSr.
SECOND.
thiud.
FOUKTII
teah.
2
m
•s
a
<u
•o .
O m
■p
o
a.
o
§
1%
Strcivth -
c,
855
c,
5C5
7,
035
7,149
6,
901
^i
Si
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
•S'5
402
14
2
1
1
194
624
4G5
18
195
558
5
1524
144
1
230
G20
3
1
4
527
11
1
180
495
5
2918
187
2
1
1
2
799
2297
3
1
4
3 in 5
1 in 2918
1 iu 47
iu 2
in 1
Oiu 1
Gin 2
Oin 799
iu 2297
An
Dysoutcria acuta- _ .-_.
?,7
Dysenteria clironioa
Obstipatio --
115
All other diseases of this system. .
332
Total
1238
1236
2524
8
1214
6212
8
lin 776
son
6207
5
1 in 1241
899
In reference to the cases of cholera Asiatica, Surgeon John M. Cuyler, in his report of sick for
the third quarter, 1849, remarks, that "during the last six months diarrhoea and dysentery
have prevailed to- a very great extent amongst the pupils of the Academy and the enlisted men
of the post; and, also, as far as I can learn, they have been of more frequent occurrence in the
neighboring villages than is usual in this section of the country. Some peculiar atmospheric
influence (whether or not it be that which causes epidemic cholera) was felt here previous to
the accession of that disease, manifesting its presence by the modifications exhibited in almost
every case of sickness that has happened within the past season. The case of dysentery which
proved fatal on the 17th of July showed, in a very marked degree towards its close, some of
the symptoms of cholera; but the first well-marked instance that appeared in this neighborhood
was in tlie small town of Canterbury, twelve miles distant, where, in a few days, fifteen or
twenty persons died. It was common along the line of the Hudson River Eailroad, on the
opposite side of tlie river, for some weeks previous."
The first death from cholera at West Point occurred on the 11 th of August, and the last on
the 7th of September, 1849,
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NOETHEEN DIVISION.
33
DISEASES OF THE EESPIRATORT SYSTEM.
Quartei-s
nusT.
8ECX)S1>.
THIBD.
FOrBTII.
TEAK._
2
1
t:
o
c
£
?i
Strength
6,855
6,
565
7,
035
7,
149
6,901 ■
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
o £
Bronchitis acuta et chronica
Catarrhus
1967
2
17
4
23
2
1
1543
1
5
4
62
3
880
2
1
60
3
1960
1
21
I
45
6350
6,
43
10
190
8
1
in 6350
920
0.8
Phthisis pulmonalis
in 43
1 in 10
in 190
6
1.4
27
Pneumonia
All other diseases of this
Total -
2013
3
1615
3
943
3
2023
»
6599
9
1 in 733
956
Rheumatism us --
201
201
1
156
161
719
1
1 in 719
104
The anomaly presented in the foregoing table, of more deaths from phthisis than there were
cases reported, is to be ex})lained by stating that patients are sometimes admitted to hospital
with acute diseases, which terminate in, or lead to, the develo2:)ment of consumption- in such
cases, the original disease only is reported in the list of admissions.
The epidemic influenza prevailed here in June, 1843, making its appearance about the first
of that month, and terminating about the first of July. Surgeon Cuyler remarks that "the
disease was of a less catarrhal character than usual, affecting the nervous system more <^enerally."
The following table, from abstract No. 4 of this division, exhibits the amount of sickness and
mortality in the region lying east of the Great Lakes:
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
Ratio per 1,000 ofKEiM btrenotb.
Treated. 1 Died.
3,731
3,706
3,473
3,304
1,541
1,624
1,852
1,409
13
17
3
6
413 3.4
438 4. 5
533 0. 8
426 1.8+
Third quarter
Fourth quarter ..
Annual ratio
3,553
6,426
39
1,803 10.9
The foregoing table shows tliat the average annual proportion of cases of disease to the
strength of the command was 1.8 to 1; the ratio of deaths to the number of men, 1 in 91 or
1.09 per cent. ; aud the proportion of deaths to cases treated, 1 in 1G1.77, or 0.6 per cent.
S. 96 5
34
REPORT ON TUK SICKNICSS AND MORTALITY
FEVERS.
I
Quarters nnsT.
1 ' ' Is
SKCOND. THIRD. FOIRTII. YKAR. *
Strength ' 3,731
3.706 3,473 3,304
3, 553 c 1
o to
if
"5 a
5
Diseases. i Cases.
Oeatlis.
Cases.
Deaths. > Cases.
1
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths. g
t a:
Fcbris contiuua ccmiiiuinis
Febris intermittens quotidiana.
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana...
Febris remittens
Febris typhus. _ .......
27
7
13
C
43
30
27
6
10
2
41 -
28
58
3
4
•to
16
15
7
3
1
151
81
113
16
20
3
] in I.')l
1 ill M
1 in 113
■ in IG
in 20
3 3 ill 3
in
42
22
32
4
6
1
Febris typhus icterodes
Total ..
53
IIB
2
134
1
81
1
384
3 1 in 128
108
Although it i.s evident, from the statistical table, that fevers of the intermittent type are com-
paratively rare in this command, it is, nevertheless, proper to remark, that a majority of the
cases reported occurred in troops who had recently served in Florida. To such an extent is this
the fact, tliat the few exceptional cases were considered by the medical officers worthy special
remark.
The original reports afford no cine to the anomaly of two deatlis from typhus fever in the second
quarter; no cases of that disease having been reported. It is probable the cases were, in reality,
typhoid terminations of other diseases.
Eriptive Fevek.s. — In this class we notice an ejtidemic of rubeola, which occurred at Hancock
Barracks in April and May, 1841. No particulars have been reported. Seventeen cases oc-
curred among the troops ; but it is highly probable that the disease prevailed much more exten-
sively in the families of officers and soldiers; the official statistical reports being confined to tlie
military force ])roper.
In June, 1841, acting Assistant Surgeon Augustus Viele reports from Watervliet Arsenal,
that "many cases of erysipelas, of a malignant and fatal character, have occurred in the vicin-
ity of this ]iost during tlie past quarter ; also many cases of puerperal fever, nearly all of whicli
proved iatal." In March, 1842, Assistant Surgeon L. C. McPliail, at Plattsburg Barracks,
reports the prevalence of an epidemic erysipelas of a very fatal character, in the northwest jiart
of Vermont, along the New York border, and in the counties of the latter State bordering on
Lake Chamiilain. The disease had then (March 31st) reached Plattsburg, without any miti-
gation of its severity. The same officer, in his report for the first quarter, 1843, remarks, that
"the epidemic erysipelas noticed in my report for Marcli, 1842, has continued in these parts to
the present, and deaths from it are of almost daily occurrence. During its prevalence, otherwise
trifling wounds and injuries have become serious, and in several instances fatal, from their be-
coming erysipelatous, followed by gangrene; and parturient women have fallen, in unusual
numbers, victims to jmerperal lever." Again, in June, 1843, this officer rei^orts as follows:
"The erysipelas reigns no longer here epidemically ; but occasionally a case is seen, and wounds
still manifest a disposition to lake on erysipelatous inflammation."
Scarlatina prevailed in the vicinity of Plattsburg Barracks during the tliird quarter of 1842,
and again in the second quarter of 1845.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHKRN DIVISION.
35
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYS'l-EM.
QiKirter-s
FIRST.
SECOND.
Strfni,'tli
3.731
:; 70(j
Diseases.
Cliolera Asiatica.
DiarrlKua
Dysenteria acuta _
Dysenteria chronica
Enteritis
Hepatitis acuta
Hepatitis chronica
Obstipatio
All other diseases of thissystem
Total
Cases. : Deaths. Cases. I Deaths.
G2
1:'.
1
48
112
23S
119
2.5
2
1+
1
2
53
114
173
3.304
Cases. I Deaths. I Cases. Deaths.
295
69
8
<l
4
2
n
(1
G4
Q
180
121
e
2
2
4
43
102
3.553
Cases. Deaths.
597
115
5
22
208
508
2 330 622 280
i I
1470 3 1 in 490
<- '
in
2
1
in
298
168
in
115
32
in
5
1
in
22
6
in
7
2
1
1
in
8
2
in
208
58
in
508
143
413
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM.
Quarters -
FIRST.
SECOND.
1
1 TUIED.
rOUKTH.
TEAE
Proporlion of deaths to
eases.
§
i:3.
Strength _
3,
731
3,
706
3,
473
3,
304
3, 553
=■3
Diseases.
Ca.^es.
Deaths.
1
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
C =
Bronchitis acuta et chronica..
Catarrh us .
20
404
7
42
35
1
3
1
14
321
2
25
27
6
1
4
2
15
256
i
22
18
5
1
1
15
294
4
32
16
1
1
2
64
1275
17
121
96
13
I
2
10
1
2
1 in 64
1 in 637
1 in 1.7
1 in 121
1 in 48
Oiu 13
12
358
4.7
34
27
4
Plithisis pulnionalis
All otlier diseases of this system
Totitl. __
509
4
395
7
320
2
362
3
1586
16
1 in 99
446
51
[
92
1
69
58
270
1
1 in 270
76
Epidemic catarrh (influenza) prevailed in the vicinity of Watervliet Arsenal in June, 1843.
At PlattsLurg it appeared aboufthe middle of March, partially ceased in May, and returned
toward the close of June. At Hancock Barracks, catarrh was prevalent during the second
quarter, 1843, and Surgeon A. N. McLaren reports that "some cases assumed all the charac-
teristic symptoms of influenza." This epidemic commenced at that station in July, 1843, four
or five days after its announcement in Boston. At Fort Fairfield, it commenced on the 15th of
August; and at Fort Kent, in July.
The medical officers appear to have pursued one kind of treatment : emetics, followed by
some mercurial cathartic, with Dover's powder, pediluvia, and counter-irritants to the chest.
36 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
REGION OF THE GREAT LAKES.
Eleven stations have been occTipicd in this region duiing tlie jierio<l under review, viz: Madi-
son Barracks, Fort Ontario, Fort Niagara, JBufialo Barracks, Detroit Barracks, Detroit Arsenal,
Forts Gratiot, Mackinac, Brady, Wilkins, and Howard.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF JLVUISON RAItKACKS.
By Assistant Surgeon Thomas IloiuUrson : 1839.
This Station is at Sacket's Harbor, N. Y., in latitude 43° 50' N. ; longitude 1° E. from "Wash-
ington. It is distant from the ocean three hundred and twenty miles ; from Lake Ontario,
eight miles. It is situated on the southern side of the bay formed by the entrance of Black
river into the lake. The river is the third in size that is wholly in the State of New York.
The color of the water is quite dark, a feature not uncommon in this region, and not readily
accounted for. The water is not drank by those who live near it, being thought unwholesome.
A small creek em])ties into Black river about three-fourths of a mile northeast of the post.
There are no marshes near to the post, that could affect the health of the garrison.
The plain of the parade-ground is between twenty-five and thirty feet higher than the level
of the lake. The surface of the lake is about two hundred and thirty feet higher than the
ocean ; consequently, the plain of the parade-ground is two hundred and sixty feet higher than
the ocean.
The grounds around the garrison are so level that they cannot be perfectly drained. The
soil is dark, with much clay, and rests on a stratum of limestone, which is from one to three
feet below the surface. The nature of the soil, and this superficial calcareous stratum, keep the
immediate vicinity of the post^ even after ordinary rains, boggy, and favoring terraqueous ex-
halation.
The physical aspect of the surrounding country is waving and undulating. The soil is gene-
rally rich.
The forest-trees are maple, beech, birch, walnut, bass, ash, elm, and hemlock. Esculent
vegetables are produced in great abundance and variety. The staple agricultural product is
wheat.
No minerals are found in the immediate vicinity of Madison Barracks. About fifty miles
northeast, lead mines of great value are wrought, and iron ore is obtained in the southeast
part of the county (Jefferson) in which the station is located.
As there are no marshes in the neighborhood of the barracks that can sophisticate atmo-
spheric currents, no results from 2^'>'cvalent winds can be stated. Ocean winds are not known
here. The lake has its balmy breezes in summer, and its bleak blasts in winter ; the latter pre-
vailing with great veliemence, but not productive of disease.
In looking at ^'thc season of the year most productive of disease," the annals of Sacket's Har-
bor, like those of the lake-shores on the frontier generally, show that formidable diseases have
prevailed at all seasons of the year. During the war of 1812, the epidemic called pneumonia
typhoides originated on the lines, and appeared at this place. ^Those who recollect that extra-
ordinary disease, know that it existed in the winter and spring, ceasing in summer. In July,
1813, from a tenth to a fifth of the crews of Commodore Chauncey's squadron were on sick
report at the Harbor. In August more than one-sixth of the seamen were left on shore ; and
Cooper's Naval History tells that at one time in this season (1813) the Madison had nearly one-
half of her com])leraent on the sick-list. The same author states that, in the winter of 1814,
the sickness at the Harbor was of the gravest character ; one-half of the crew of the Madison
was sick, and (inc-fii'th died. In the summer of that year the operations of the squadron were
delayed by the illness of the mechanics at the navy-yard.
AMONG THE TROOrS IN THR NORTHERN DIVISION. 37
Since the peace of 1815, I learn from intelligent army officers and from respectable citizens
that the Harbor has been a liealthy place. No winter diseases, except ordinary epidemics, and
tlie pulmonary disorders, and those of fibrous tissues incident to such climates, have existed.
The summer diseases have been mild and tractable ; autumnal remittents neither common nor
fatal. The second regiment of infantry was at this post for two or three years, about 1826,
and was free from disease. Troops have been subsequently stationed here, and enjoyed health.
The country round about has had similarly uniform exemption from sickness.
In the fall of 1838, the eighth regiment of infantry was concentrated at Madison Barracks ;
some detachments had been at the post during the year, and, as I am informed, general health
prevailed. In the month of October, 1838, not a case of remittent fever appears on the quar-
terly report of sick. During the winter of 1838-'9 some cases of fever occurred, and proved
fatal — death from cephalic irritation. I was on duty at several stations on the frontier during
that winter, viz: Rochester^ Oswego, Ogdensburg, Morristown, and Buffalo, and saw no such
cases as proved fatal at the Harbor.
Extensive and fatal sickness prevailed in Michigan, and west thereof, during the summer and
autumn of 1838.
In May and June, 1839, diarrhoea became very rife at Madison Barracks, with here and there
a case of fatal remittent fever. In July, and the subsequent months, up to this date, (October
25,) the diarrhoea has been almost universal. Cases of fever became more numerous in July
and August ; several were fatal. The morning report rose to eighty sick, exclusive of those in
garrison, who are not reported sick. On the 23d of August I reported for duty, and found
disease prevailing to great extent in forms of diarrhoea, remittent fever, and cases of both
combined.
Let it be here observed that the summer of 1838 was intemperately hot and dry ; the sum-
mer of 1839 was cool, and seasonable as to rain. General health prevailed east and south,
except at Cliarleston, S. C, in 1838. In 1839, with a season throughout ostensibly favorable
to health, so far as moderate heat and moisture are concerned, epidemic dysentery prevailed in
New England ; the most malignant endemics existed in New Orleans, Mobile, Pensacola, St.
Augustine, Charleston, in Augusta, (Georgia,) in Illinois, and in the towns and cities on the
lower Mississippi. Is it, then, remarkable that Madison Barracks should have been more
sickly than usual? especially when it appears that, in several localities, not far from the post,
similar and severe visitations of fever ajjpeared. Sacket's Harbor village has had more fever
than has been known for twenty years. In the neighboring farming country, places usually
healthy have suffered from fatal malarial sickness. In a little village on the St. Lawrence,
(Cape Vincent,) not far from the post, there were at one time twenty-three cases of fever. At
Hammond and at Lisbon, places about a day's journey from Madison Barracks, and i)lace3
heretofore healthy, sickness was very severe.
And yet, as if the caprice of malarial influence were ever to baffle search into causes success-
fully, at Rochester and Bufhxlo, I am told, the troops were healthy ; at Plattsburg most remark-
ably so. Nearer to Madison Barracks, at Ogdensburg on one side, and at Oswego on the other,
the towns wei'C i)erfectly free from disease. I was informed by a very resi)ecfable jihysician at
Oswego, that between May and the; 22d of August, he had not seen one case of deliberate fever.
At the same time the eiglith regiment, in all its departments, officers, soldiers, and families,
was affected with diarrhtea, ana, as the autumn approached, remittent fever appeared very
generally. In September there were fortij-foxir cases of fever, exclusive of what appeared
among the families. In October, up to the 22d, there were thirhj-eight cases on the hospital
register ; making an aggregate of what I have seen since the 23d of August of about ninety
cases, exclusive of jaundice and intermittent cases, that are forms of malarial disease ; and
especially exclusive of diarrhoea, the cases of which were extremely numerous and obstinate.
This last disease would readily yield to hospital treatment and diet, but recurred too readily ou
going to quarters and to ration diet, i>r it would lajise into remittent fever.
38 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Information respecting the " supposed causes" is called for. I submit .a few observations on
this bead.
At a military station, where, in the autumn of 1838, men were collected under disadvanta-
geous circumstances, general health prevailed, during and after a season of unexampled heat
and drought; while at the same military station, in the summer and autumn of 1839, the suc-
ceeding year, and duriftg an equable and pleasant season, hundreds of cases of diarrhoea, and
one hundred cases of remittent fever, beside jaundice and intermittents, aro.ie ; when, too, the
disadvantages of 1838 were removed — it is natural, I say, to look for an obvious cause for such
a dili'erence. So far as the immediate locale is concerned, everything is favorable to disease in
1838, except the drought, and on the contrary hand in 1839. In 1838 the barracks were re-
pairing and being cleaned, the sleeping rooms wretchedly ventilated, the post comparatively
unpoliced, and the men unused to the water ; while in 1839 the works were done, the company
rooms much improved, tliough still imperfect in ventilation, the police of the post admirable,
and the men accustomed to the water. Within tlie pickets no obvious cause existed.
The neighboiing lev(d ground was more moist in 1839 than in the preceding year ; but
no more so tlian during most of the seasons for twenty-five preceding years, when no sickness
prevailed in the garrison when occupied, or in the village of Sacket's Harbor. A cause cannot
obviously be found in this.
It is known that, within a few years, the lakes have risen l)etween three and five feet, and
are now falling. Popular opinion, which should always be attended to on such questions,
though very often incorrect, has ascribed the sickness to this fall of water. I see nothing in
the laying bare annually of a few inches of lake shore, nor in the draining of tributary streams,
that could cause the sickness at Madison Barracks ; for in the vicinity no grounds have been
covered or laid bare by the rise or fall of water so as to afford malaria. This rise and fall of
the vast interior seas is a phenomenon, but cannot be philosophically considered as a cause
of endemics.
Again, the opinion is that the water is bad, and has caused disease. It is true the water is
bad to the taste, and it is wisdom and duty to provide a garrison with the purest water ; and
this can be done at Madison Barracks by having appropriate cisterns. Yet it should be borne in
mind, that in 1838 a fordori water should have made the troops sick; and also, that as many
who were accustomed to the water of this calcareous region died, as of those who were not used
to it ; and that no disproportion of sick, so far as foreigners to the water are concerned, fevors
the idea of this aqueous cause of disease. Nor has sickness heretofore existed among troops
here, to justify the idea that the water was the cause. The water is, as iiir as we know, always
the same, while fever has rarely appeared since 1816; since which, all parts of this lake region
have been, from cultivation of the soil, becoming more salubrious. Limestone water has been
the drink, where the health of the troops and inhabitants has been perfect this season.
Under the head of "probable causes of sickness," it is proper to say that the barracks are not
well ventilated; but they were worse in this respect in 1838 than in 1839.
Lastly, there is no reason to believe that there has been any defect in the quality of the
articles issued as rations.
The question recurs with some interest, though not specially put in the circular. Is Madison
Barracks a sickly station ?
In order to throw all light on this subject, I have lookelf at it in the fairest light: the
siclvness during the war of 1813 ; the condition of the post and village since the war, as ascer-
tained from the most respectable observers ; and our conclusion is, that it is a healthy station.
Here are the reasons:
Although in 1813 and 1814 there was much sickness at Sacket's Harbor, yet it was incident
to the state of war ; to the crowd of soldiers and sailors assembled hastily at the post ; to the
inadequacy of good food and shelter ; and to the exposures and privations endured by the sea-
men and soldiers.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHEllN DIVISION. 39
Since the war, tlie station has generally been healthy, and the vilhigo adjoining uniformly so.
If Madison Barracks has heen more sicldy during the present season, so has the surrounding
country in various places heretofore perfectly healthy.
The inference that a station is unhealthy, cannot legitimately be drawn from the experience
of a season. The cause of the sickness at Madison Barracks in 1839 is, like the cause of sum-
mer and autumnal diseases, inscrutable. Disease seems to move in a cycle of years, and at
some period of that cycle almost all sites are sickly.
TiiK Barracks. — The barracks were erected in 1822, and are constructed of the limestone
that abounds as a building material in the vicinity. The exposure to the west and northwest
winds is exceedingly unpleasant. No situation could be more disadvantageously exposed in
the winter of this climate than is the parade-ground of Madison Barracks. The site is dry and
airy. The barracks are at present badly ventilated.
The Hospital. — Tlie hospital has been in one end of the barracks, and will continue there
until the new hospital is completed.
It is, I believe, constructed after a plan furnished from the office of the Surgeon General.
That plan has been modified by order of the Secretary of War, on the suggestion of the medi-
cal officer on duty at Madison Barracks, so as to have wings, in one of which is a bathing-room,
in the otlier a dead-Yoom ; and under both wings are copious cislcrns for rain-water. The lime-
water used is unfit for various pharmaceutical purposes.
The hospital is being constructed of limestone, and in its plan due reference has been had to
ventilation, and to all that may be essential to its adaptation for a hosj)ital.
The site is bleak, and exposed to the violence of all winds that blow ; it is decidedly objection-
able on that score. It is too near the edge of Black-river bay ; for hospitals should not be placed
near fresh-water streams. It is comparatively inaccessible during the long and severe winter
weather ; for a ravine intervenes between it and the barracks, that will much incommode the
sick in their access to the hospital.
Should these objections be valid, it is due to the medical officers at the post to state that
another site was recommended by the surgeon on duty, when the hosjjital was about to be
located. I have been so informed by the surgeon alluded to.
The following remarks of Surgeon H. L. Heiskell, respecting the unusual amount of sickness
referred to by Dr. Henderson, in the foregoing report, are transcribed from his report of sick at
Madison Barracks, for the quarter ending December 31st, 1839:
"The unusual amount of sickness which has prevailed during the greater part of the past
year at this post, situated as it is in a healthy region of country, lias been to many a source of
no small surprise. Although the fever has never, to my knowledge, been of so general a
character as to merit the dignity of an epidemic, it has been sufficiently serious to arrest atten-
tion, and to claim a careful investigation on the part of the medical officers. Tlie result of my
own reflections is, that the decomposition of the exhalations from the skin and lungs, iisually
termed idio-miasmata, resulting from the crowded state of tlie men's sleeping apartments, and
their imperfect ventilation, was the most prominent cause of this fever. Wlien I speak of
' imperfect ventilation,' I wish it to be distinctly understood that I do not impute blame upon
any of the officers of the regiment. What I mean is, that, owing to tlie defective construction
(including want of space) of these apartments, a proper ventilation cannot be obtained. What
are the facts? Each company has an attic room for a sleeping apartment. Whether a full
company or not, the size of the room is the same. There is a single entrance from below, by a
flight of steps, for the men to pass in and out. The windows are all on one side, about four
feet above the level of the floor. Ventilators, or openings, have been made in the roof, on the
opposite side, at my suggestion. It will hardly be supposed, however, that in a cold climate
they will be left open at night to allow the fresh air to enter. Such is the economy of the con-
slruciion. That in regard to space is even more striking, and would seem to have been designed
40 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
as an experiment toktrv Imw many luunan beings could be crowded into the smallest possible
compass withdut inducing suffocation. By a careful measurement of one of tbese company's
sleeping rooms, it is ascertained tliat it contains about 8,500 cubic feet, independent of all
necessary fixtures. Allowing for the space occupied by the bunks, lockers, gun-racks, &c.,
&c., there would be scarcely 8,000 cubic feet clear. Divide tiiis amount by the average number
of men in each company, say 60, and there would be loo^ cubic feet for each man. Those who
were so unfortunate! as to belong to a company of 90 strong, (and one of the companies did
amount to that number,) would get one-third less. From these data it will readily be imagined
what would be the condition of the air, which, instead of affording the vivifying principle to
the blood, and i)reparing it for the vital and important functions of the animal economy, would
act only as an irritant and poison. Some there are, whose opinions are entitled to much
respect, who attribute the prevalence of the fever to the subsidence of the lake; and to some
extent this may be true ; yet, as the lake-shore in this vicinity is generally bold and rocky, I
am not disposed to attach equal importance to tliat circumstance." Surgeon Heiskell gives the
I'ollowing as the general character of the prevailing disease: "The fever was marked by an
exacerbation in the afternoon, with a remission more or less distinct toward morning ; pulse
small and frequent ; skin exceedingly dry and rough ; tongue coated with a brown or black
fur, exhibiting a cracked appearance. When the fever was of a gastric form, the tongue was
red, dry, and glossy; stools reddish and watery; tenderness of the bowels on pressure; in the
advanced stage, the teeth and lips covered with dark sordes. A striking peculiarity of the dis-
ease consisted in a proneness to degenerate in, or become complicated with, diarrhoea; with
catarrhal symptoms not unfrequently superadded. This condition of the bowels demanded
great caution in the administration even of the mildest cathartics, and was as troublesome a
symptom as I have had occasion to combat."
FORT ONTARIO.
Tliis post is situated within the limits of the city of Oswego, on the southern shore of Lake
Ontario, and on the east bank of the Oswego river, in latitude 43° 20', longitude 76° 40'. It
is on ground elevated fifty or sixty feet above the level of the lake, and about 290 feet above
the level of the sea; is well drained, and has no swamps or stagnant water near it. Fevers of
an intermittent tyjjc prevailed here in the summer of 1842, but since that time the garrison has
been almost entirely exempt from that class of diseases.
FORT NIAGARA.
Situated on a point of land jjrojecting westerly at the entrance of Niagara river into Lake
Ontario, Fort Niagara is bounded on the north and northwest by the lake, and on the west and
southwest by Niagara river. It is 14 miles from the Falls of Niagara, and 32 miles from Lake
Erie. The surface of the country in the immediate vicinity is remarkably level, but there are
no marshes within six or eight miles. The vegetable productions of the climate flourish here
luxuriantly. The river at this point is about half a mile wide. The general character of the
climate pertains to the same class as the preceding stations, marked by those meteorological
features peculiar to positions on large bodies of water.
BUFFALO BARRACKS,
Li the niiitlnTii and most elcvateJ portion of tlie city of Buffalo. Tlie low grounds are dis-
tant, and are covered with a dense growth of timber. Between the barracks and the canal
basin, and also between them and Buffalo creek, eacli about one mile and a quarter distant,
intervenes the densest part of the city.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 41
DETROIT BARIIACKS,
At the city of Detroit, Micliigan. The surrounding country is flat. The soil is a stiff clay,
combined with carbonate of lime ; hence, in the rainy season, the land is in a great degree
saturated with water, and to a certain extent submerged. The smaller streams emptying into
the Detroit are sluggish, bordered with extensive marshes, and in the autumn abounding with
decayed vegetable matter. As may be suj^posed from tliis brief outline of its topography, inter-
mittent and remittent fevers, diarrhoea, and dysentery prevail among the troops, and also in
the vicinity of the barracks. A still more fruitful cause of disease at this station is to be found
in the tcmjttations to vicious and intemperate habits afforded by a city. On this point. Surgeon
Charles 8. Tripler, in January, 1842, makes the following remarks :
'' To realize tlie frightful intemperance of some of the men stationed here, one must see it.
If permitted to go on unrestrained, this command must soon be decimated. Situated as the
troops are, no degree of vigilance or severity on the part of the officers can even check, much
less put a stop to it. We have no regular barracks ; the buildings occupied as such, are acces-
sible to whiskey smugglers at all points. No troops have constitutions capable of standing such
persevering intemperance ; they must be quartered differently, or they must die."
Detroit Aksenal is at Doarbornville, on tlie river Rouge, about ten miles west of the city of
Detroit. The country is low and flat.
FORT GRATIOT.
Fort Gratiot, situated on the river St. Clair, half a mile from the outlet of Lake Huron, is
elevated 598 feet above the level of tlie ocean, being twenty feet above the surface of the lake.
Black river, distant about one mile in a southwest direction, is the only stream, with the
exception of the St. Clair, in the vicinity. "It is bordered," says Assistant Surgeon Motte,
" particularly on the west, b)'' frequent broad marshes, wliich have been subjected to an accu-
mulation of alluvion for a sufficient period to allow a deposition of peat from vegetable decom-
position. These marshes exhale, during the summer and autumnal months, a pestilential
atmosphere, generative of fever and ague, which is but too jirevalent among the inhabitants in
the vicinity."
The surrounding country is greatly undulating. The soil is mostly a sandy loam, and the
proportion of marsh is small. Clay is reached at the depth of twelve or fifteen feet. Most of
the surrounding country is covered with forest ; among the vegetable productions are oak, elm,
maple, ash, hickory, black walnut, pine, &c.
" The lake and river sliore in the immediate vicinity of the fort," says Assistant Surgeon
Motte, " is a low gravelly ridge, extending nearly a quarter of a mile from the margin of the
lake, when the ground suddenly rises to the height of twenty-five feet above the surface of the
lake, and retains this elevation, with little 'variation, to near the shores of Black river. This
elevated ground gradually approximates tlie St. Clair towards the fort ; and a few rods below, it
becomes a perpendicular bluft' in immediate contact with the water."
Between the fort and the ridge just described, there is a stagnant pond, which it has been
found impracticable to drain, and which, it is supposed, is the copious source of miasmata.
The hospital and barracks are represented as defective, being very damp and ill adapted for
ventilation.
FORT MACKINAC,
Located on the island of Mackinac, in the straits connecting Lakes Huron and Michigan. The
fort is on an abrupt elevation, 150 feet above the lake, and 728 feet above the level of the ocean.
The island is about nine miles in circumference, and rises on its eastern and southern shore in
abrupt rocky clift's, the highest point being about two hundred and fifty feet above the lake.
This post is one of the most healthy in the United States.
s. 9(> G
42 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
FORT I'.RADY.
Fort Brady, sitimted at tlic Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, is on the southern bank of that river.
It is distant from Lake Suiierior 15 miles, from Lake Huron 50, and from the Athmtic ocean
about 800 miles. The river at this point is six feet below tlie surface of Lake Superior, and
nearly fiOO feet above the level of the ocean. The physical aspect of tlie surrounding country
exhibits considerable variety. The bank of the Hto. Marie, which is here three-fourtli.s of a mile
in width, presents a gradual slope for the distance of <250 feet, gaining in that space an elevation
of 14 feet, in the rear of which the surface of the country approximates"a level. For 300 yards
from the bank of the river, the soil is cleared of timber, and is, althougli not very productive,
in a state of cultivation. Immediately adjoining this cultivated ground is a marsh half a milo
wide, beyond which high lands appear. This marsh extends five or six miles down the river
in a southeast direction, and west and southwest for 15 or 20 miles. It is covered with some
large forest-trees and a thick growth of underwood. On the opposite side of the river, the
country is imdulating and mountainous, and covered with a dense forest. The falls in the river
at this point form an obstruction to the ship navigation of the upper lakes.
The prevailing winds are the west, northwest, and southeast. The northwest winds descend
from mountain chains, traversing Lake Superior ; and the west and southeast winds pass over
the marshes already described.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT WILKINS.
By Assistant Surgeon Charles E. Isaacs : 18J15.
The wild region bordering upon Lake Superior has been as yet but imperfectly explored by
a tcAv individuals, while to most persons it still remains entirely unknown. In former times,
the numerous and warlike bands of savages threw greater dangers in the way of its explora-
tion; and even at the present day, though this difficulty has long since ceased to exist, the
natural obstacles and the hardships to be endured are such as to discourage all but the most
hardy and enterprising. The sudden and violent squalls and storms that sweep the surface of
the lake are hazardous even to the experienced voycujcur; while its bold, rocky, and often inac-
cessible shores seldom atTord a place of refuge from their fury. The examination of the inte-
rior is attended with excessive fatigue and exposure to the inclemency of the weather ; and in
the summer months the insects (the black flies and mosquitoes) are extremely troublesome.
The rivers are small, short, and obstructed frequently by difficult and dangerous rapids ; the
dense evergreen growth sometimes forms almost impenetrable thickets ; fallen timber is found
crossed and interlaced in every direction ; very much of the country is broken, rocky, and
mountainous, with cliffs, precipices, and ravines of great height and depth, almost or quite im-
passable ; and provisions must be packed and carried to great distances, as game is very scarce
and not to be depended on.
Lake Superior may with propriety be compared to a vast, deep, and rocky basin, the edge in
many places bordered by enormous precipitous trap, conglomerate, and other volcanic rocks,
abounding in agates, carnelians, &c., and intersected by veins of metallic copper and its ores
nmning north and south, inclining west about lifteen degrees. There is jirobably no region
in the world in which coj)per has been found so generally diffused. It is seen on nearly the
whole extent of the shores of the lake, on the north and south, on almost all the islands, while
it extends to an unknown distance to the south, west, and north. At Copi>er Harbor two veins
of black oxide of copper have been discovered in conglomerate rocks, to the extent of three
hundred yards, varying in width from ten inches to two feet, and yielding, from the best sjjeci-
mens, upwards of TO per cent, of pure cojiper. One of these veins is in active operation. A
very rich vein of silver mixed with cojiper is worked at Eagle river, where shafts have been
sunk to the depth of 70 feet, and the ore is equally good with that at the surface. The carbon-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHEKN DIVISION. 48
ate, yielding from 20 to 30 per cent., has been found at Copper Harbor ; and discoveries to
great extent may now be anticipated, as adventurers are flockino; in vast numbers to the coun-
try. On landing the troops appointed to occupy the military station, in May, 1844, there were
not more than a dozen persons living within as many miles, and those were explorers. A re-
cent account gives one thousand visitors during the present season. The immense wealth of
the mines will undoubtedly induce multitudes to locate in this region.
As above stated, the region of Lake Superior is almost entirely uninhabited. The American
Fur Company has four trading-posts, at the Sault Ste. Marie, at the Anse Bay, at Fond du Lac,
and at La Poiute ; with these exceptions, there are only a few scattered, individuals, and some
few families, along the whole extent of the southern coast.
Fort Wilkins is situated in latitude about 47° 30' north, and in longitude 11° 30' west from
Washington. It is ten miles from Keweena Point, which is the extremity of a neck of land
projecting sixty miles into near the centre of Lake Superior, and varying in width from two to
forty miles. This peninsula is very broken, irregular, rocky, and mountainous. The rocks
are trap and conglomerate. The country is covered with a dense evergreen growth of fir, pine,
and spruce, with white birch and a few oaks and maple. The soil is poor, barren, stony ; in
the vicinity of the fort remarkably so.
Copper Harbor is two and a half miles long, affording a good anchorage. Opposite the en-
trance of the harbor, and near the landing, is a small lake ; between this lake and the harbor,
on a narrow neck of land, is the fort, twenty feet above the level of Copper Harbor. It is
built upon conglomerate rock, which has been blasted away, in order to locate the buildings.
The quarters and hospital are ample for two companies, and enclosed with picket-work. The
water of Lake Superior is excellent, and is generally used ; that of the small lake on which
the fort fronts is dark colored, unpleasant to the taste, and appears to hold much vegetable
matter in solution ; it has been soiftided to the depth of GO or 70 feet, and has an outlet that
runs by the side of the fort into the harbor. Last summer (1844) the weather was uncommonly
fine, clear, moderately warm^ and so continued till the end of September. The winter wag
mild ; the thermometer, never below zero, was only three times at that point; the mean tem-
perature for the winter was 20° above zero. The snow was from three to four feet on a level.
I am informed by those who have resided in the country that the winters are generally mild;
that the last was not unusually so. This is well contrasted with the cold at Sault Ste. Marie,
200 miles below, in lower latitude, where the winters are always severe, and where the mercury
frequently falls 20 or 30 degrees below zero, and has been known to freeze. The insular posi-
tion of Fort Wilkins probaldy explains the difference of the temperature. Since my last (juar-
terly report (December, 1844) several cases of peritonitis, of very severe and obstinate char-
acter, have occurred here. The weather, at the time the disease commenced, was milder than
it had pi-eviously been, and continued so for a short time. During the winter there was ft
sufficient supply of all the necessaries of life. Potatoes, pickles, and sauer-kraut were issued to
the men. There was not the slightest appearance of scorbutus.
The first cases of this disease occurred on the 28th and 29th of December, 1844. They were
soon followed by others. Although only thirteen cases were oflicially reported among the sol-
diers, many of the command were affected with premonitory symptoms — such as nausea, weight
and oppression at the epigastrium ; sometimes griping, burning pain, diarrhcea, and occasion-
ally bloody discharges. Again, there were pricking, tearing, lancinating pains in the abdo-
men, with tenderness on pressure. Yet many of these cases were so checked, by promptly
resorting to remedies, that, not running out their course, they were not reported ; nor were
some severe cases in the families of officers reported on sick-list. One case, that of a soldier,
terminated fatally. The disease was marked by great severity of symptoms, by their proneness
to recur, and by unusual obstinacy and resistance tp the action of remedies. The plan most
effectual to arrest premonitory symptoms was, abstinence from all food, counter-irritation, sin-
44 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
apisms, and liot apiilications to the abilomcn — small doses of mass, ex hvdrarg. c. opio, followed
by cups, pediluvia, and enemata. If the disease did not rapidbj yield, copions bleeding, followed
by cupping, calomel and opium in doses to act gently on the liver and intestinal canal, and to
relieve pain, were the appropriate means. I found it necessary in most cases to repeat bleed-
ing and cupping three or four times. In the latter stages, blisters were used. In the first two
cases only did I think it necessary to touch the mouth with mercury, and it is questionable
whether it was of any service. The disease in its last stages had a strong tendency to pass into
dysentery.
From the symptoms and aspects of all the cases carefully considered, and from the post-
mortem developments in the one fatal case, the disease seems to have been an obstinate and
ZHfen.se Peritonitis ; the inflammation in the latter stages involving the mucous coat of the
stomach to some extent, of the small intestines, but particularly that of the colon.
The cause of this disease is entirely unknown. It was at first attributed to the provisions.
As, however, they were of good quality, no clianges in them being discoverable, and as the
troops have continued to subsist on the same supply ever since, without consequent disease, the
cause cannot, with any probability, be referred to the diet of the troops. By some, the water of
the small lake was supposed to be the cause; but several persons drank from it during the whole
of the past summer, fall^ and winter, without any bad efiect. By many, it is used at the present
time without detriment to health. During the prevalence of the disease, the weather was
somewhat milder than it had previously been, and hence atmospheric vicissitude may have had
influence in causation. Endemic atmospheric agency is probable, as a similar form of disease,
attended with the same symptoms, prevailed at La Pointe, 180 miles west of Coj^per Harbor,
four years ago, destroying about thirty of the inhabitants. This was also in the winter. I
regret that it has not been in my jjower to obtain more precise information as to that en-
demic* *
FORT HOWARD.
This post is situated on the northwest bank of Fox river, one mile from the point at which
it empties into GJ-reen Bay. This bay^ which is an arm of Lake Michigan, indents the land for
90 miles. It commences 40 miles wide, and gradually lessens to four miles at its head, where
it receives the waters of Fox river. "It is skirted about its head," says acting Assistant Sur-
geon Ward, "with marshes a mile in width^ covered with a luxuriant growth of grass and wild
rice, which embrace tlie mouth of the river, and continue within half a mile of the fort. The
water is from six inches to six feet deep on these marshes, wliich, b^ the operation of a diurnal
flux and reflux of the waters of the bay, are alternately flooded and drained twice every 24
hours. Twenty rods back of the fort another marsh begins, and, spreading to the right and
left, extends a mile or more in each direction. It differs from the marshes just described in
this, that it is partly covered with timber, tliickets of alder, evergreens, and grass." Pro-
ceeding nortli and west two miles, the country presents a densely wooded region, as i'ar as
explorations liavo been made. On the opposite side of the river, as far as Lakes Michigan and
Winnebago, the country is also in its primitive state, covered with dense vegetation of forest
and underwood. The soil mostly consists of a vegetable mould, intermixed with clay and sand,
and is generally of a character to reward the labors of tlie husbandman.
The mean annual quantity of rain, on an average of eight years, is 31.40 inches.
This post is less under flio niddifying agency of the great inland seas (ban any otlier of this
class.
•• Afisistaut Surgeou Isaacs reports two ciiscs in detail, wliieh are tn be fmind in tlie New York Jouinal of Medicine ami
the Collateral Sciences, vol. vi, p. 195: March, 184fi.
AMONG TUE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
45
DISEASES.
The following table, compiled from abstract No. 5 ibr tliis clivision, gives a condensed view
of the aggregate amount of sickness and mortality among the troops during the period embraced
in this report, and also the corresponding annual ratios :
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Uuartcrs.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
Ratio per 1,000 of mean sTRCNG-m.
i
Treated. Died.
10,999
10,949
9,681
9,755
•
5,107
6,426
6,125
5,139
44
34
31
37
464
586
632
526
i
Second quarter
3.1
Tliird quarter
3.2
3.7
Atinnnl rnfin
10,346
22,797
146
2,203
14
22,784
140
2,202
13.5
It will be perceived that the proportion of cases of sickness to the number of men is 2.2 to
1; that the ratio of deaths to the strength of the command is 1 in 71, or 1.4 per cent.; and
that the proportion of deaths to cases treated is 1 in 156, or 0.64 of one per cent. Exclusive of
cholera, the ratio of deaths to the number of officers and men was 1 in 73.9, or 1.3 per cent, per
annum; and the proportion of deaths to cases treated was 1 in 162. T4, or 0.61 per cent.
FEVERS.
Quai'ters ---
FlK^.
SECOND.
TUIRD.
FOIKTU.
TEAR.
Proportion of dcnlh.s to
cases.
1
tl
Strentrth -
10,999
10,949
9,GS1
9,
'55
10,
346
Js
si
DLscases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deatlis.
a
=3
Febris continua communis-.-
Febris intermittens quotidiana
Febris intermittens tertiana..
Fcbris intermittens quartana.
45
70
188
15
36
S
1
2
86
390
541
26
75
5
1
3
1
48
4G9
404
28
292
13
1
8
57
169
347
16
123
7
4
1
236
1098
1480
85
526
33
3
3
14
2
lin 78
1 iu 366
iu 1480
in 85
1 iu 37
1 iu 16
in
22
106
143
8
50.8
3.1
Febris typlnis icteroiKs
Total
362
3
1123
5
1254
9
719
5
3458
•22
lin 157
334
Eruptive Fe\t;rj3. — It appears from the quarterly reports that rubeola prevailed at Buffixlo
Barracks in June, 1840, and 1845 ; and at Detroit Barracks in the first (quarter, 1843, and
second quarter, 1850. Scarlatina at Madison Barracks, and in tlie vicinity of Detroit, in Feb-
46
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
riiary and March, 1844 ; and again in the first quarters of 1845 and 1846. Five cases of vario-
loid occurred at Detroit Barracks in January, 1849. In the winter of 1851-'52 variola pre-
vailed extensively among the Indians in the vicinity of Fort Brady.
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters ---
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOUKTH.
TEAB.
o
1
= i
gS
i^
Strength -
10
999
10
,949
9,
esi
9,
755
10
346
'I
■S'3
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
304
30
7
15
1
5
90
257
4
1
1
1
594
45
4
■ 7
3
5
137
314
1
3
1
1
1
12
1017
116
5
5
7
1
150
309
5
2
1
571
84
8
3
t
3
106
294
6
1
6
4
13
2486
275
24
30
11
14
483
1174
6
13
3
1
2
7
1 in 2
1 in 191
1 in 92
I in 24
1 in 15
in 11
in 14
in 483
1 in 167
240
26
Dysenteria chronica
Enteritis
2.3
2.9
1
Hepatitis chronica
1.3
46.6
All other diseases of this
113
Total - - -
709
6
1110
7
1G22
8
1069
11
4510
32
1 in 141
436
4497
26
1 in 173
434
The reports of sick contain no noteworthy remarks respecting diseases of this system, until
we come to those for the quarter ending September, 1849. Surgeon Tripler, in his report from
Detroit Barracks for that quarter, makes the following statement concerning Asiatic cholera:
" About the first of July a few cases of cholera asphyxia made their appearance in Detroit.
The municipal authorities had in season made extraordinary ciforts to maintain a strict system
of police, and to distribute daily a free supply of lime throughout the city. The sale of vege-
tables was prohibited, and with most praiseworthy firmness these ordinances were enforced. I
caused to be procured a sufficient quantity of sulphuric acid, oxide of manganese, and salt, to
fumigate from day to day, as long as necessary, every inhabited apartment in the barracks ; and
recommended the usual precaution with regard to the diet, clothing, and hygienic regimen of
the men. The result of all these measures was, under Providence, that but one soldier died
from the disease, and he an inveterate drunkard; and but about one hundred in the city of De-
troit, including those landed from the steamboats. The disease has entirely disappeared."
Assistant Surgeon R. F. Simpson reports the prevalence of cholera among the Indians who
were encamped in the vicinity of Fort Howard, in the latter part of October, and beginning of
November, 1849. About the same time many of the soldiers were sick with diarrhoea, but the
cholera was not communicated to the troops or to the citizens residing near the fort. The
Indians had just received their annuities, and it is probable the mortality among them was
mainly due to their dissipation.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
47
DISEASES OF THE RESPIBATOET SYSTEM.
FJBST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
rOUBTH.
YEAR.
I'rnportion of deatlis lo
cables.
Z-i
Strength - -
10.
19U
10,
349
9.681
9.
~bo
10,346
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
.|-3
Bronchitis acuta et chronica..
Catarrhus '
Phthisis pulmonalis
Pleurltis
39
1013
14
83
89
16
1
12
1
4
1
48
1061
9
83
35
21
1
8
4
1
24
679
13
42
21
10
6
1
35
824
11
55
40
l(i
7
1
1
146
3577
47
263
185
63
1
1
33
2
9
4
1 in 146
1 in 3577
2 in 3
1 in 131
1 in 20
1 in 16
14
345
4.5
25
18
All other diseases of this
6
Total
1254
19
1257
14
789
7
981
10
4281
50
1 in 85
413
Eheumatismus
293
329
1
255
266
1143
1
1 in 1143
114
Influenza prevailed, as an epidemic, at most of the station.s in this region in the summer of
1843. The symptoms and treatment were generally so similar to those already detailed in this
report, that a repetition is not considered necessary. At Madison Barracks it prevailed in June
and July ; at Fort Ontario, in June only ; at Forts Niagara, Mackinac, and Brady, in July ; and at
Detroit and Buffalo Barracks, in June. Surgeon R. C. Wood reports that "epidemic catarrh
made its appearance at Bufi'alo Barracks on the 20th June, characterized by great restlessness,
languor, slight chills,, fever, and cough. In some cases, pulmonary congestion ensued; in other
cases, diarrhoea ushered in the disease. The command has been completely prostrated by it ;
several of the men were relieved from post, being attacked with sudden faintness. In ordinary
cases, emetics, saline cathartics, antimonial preparations, and the free use of warm chamomile
tea, have subdued the disease in a few days. In others, venesection and cujjping have been in-
dicated."
NOETH INTERIOR REGION— WEST OF THE GREAT LAKES.
This region includes all that portion of the United States which lies between the Great Lakes
and the Rocky Mountains, and north of the fortieth degree of latitude. During the period
imder review, ten stations have been occupied in this region, viz : Forts Winnebago, Crawford,
Snelling, Atkinson, Dodge, Des Moines, Ripley, Ridgely, Kearney, and Laramie.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT WINNEBAGO.
By Surgeon Lyman Foot : 1839. •
Fort Winnebago is situated on the right bank of Fox river, directly opposite the portage
between that river and tlie Wisconsin, and is elevated about 70 feet above tlio level of the latter;
it is in latitude 43° 31', longitude 89° 28'; 81 miles west of Lake Michigan, and 112 miles
southwest of Green Bay.
48 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
The marshes hordering tlie Wisconsin and Fox rivers are very extensive^ and come up qnite
to the left bank of the Fox river opposite the fort. They are hut little ahove the level of the
two rivers, and are sometimes overflowed. Boats have frequently passed from one river to the
other. They'are covered with a luxuriant growth of grass, and could he much improved by
ditching. The grass makes excellent forage. The formation of these marshes is a subject of
much speculation. In cutting through the tliick vegetable matter on the surface, of from two
to four i'eet, you come to a stratum of soft mini, generally a foot or two in thickness, but in some
places from eight to ten feet deep. These last are generally known by the name of "shaking
marslies," and are dangerous to cross with horses. Tliey appear, however, to be gradually
filling up, from tlie same cause that has made tlie rest more solid. Beneath tlie mud comes a
stratum of fine silicious sand. How were these marshes formed? I suppose, from their situa-
tion, they were originally shallow lakes, or lagoons, full of aipiatic plants. These jdants were,
as they are now, covered with millions of aninialcuhe, whose covering, or shell, is jjure silex.
They die annually, and deposit their silex to fill up the lake. Thus, in process of time, they
have become filled with sand, and the decaying vegetable matter has formed the thick sward
on the surfixce. This is not all speculation ; the jn'ocess is actually going on in some small
lakes or ponds still existing in and near these marshes. The old Indians inform us that
marshes that were impassable for man fifty years since, can now he crossed with horses. Nu-
merous s])rings of clear cold water are found in the midst of the marshes, where one may see
constantly thrown up by the gushing water the jiurest white silicious sand.
The soil of the upland about this post is a light loam, mixed with silex, lime, and clay. It
is what is called a '^ tvarin soil," and vegetation comes forward earlier than at any place in the
same latitude I have ever been stationed at. The mineral productions are very few ; secondary
limestone, and sandstone of recent formation, are the only rock in situ I have seen. Indications
of iron exist in various places, and clay-heds of the finest quality are found on the banks of
the Wisconsin, one mile and a half from the fort. The bricks made of this clay are of superior
quality, and resemble the Edinburgh brick.
Several varieties of the oak, the hickory, and the maple are to be found here ; also the willow,
basswood, and elm. Corn, oats, and all the culinary vegetables common in western and middle
New York, grow well here. The most peculiar native plant is the wild rice, or wild oats,
{zizanla davulosa.) It grows in Fox river, from its mouth to its source, and in all the ponds,
lakes, marshes, and lagoons about the country. It is a great article of food among the Indians.
The wild rice liarvest is to them, what the wheat and corn harvest is to the Virginia planter.
They encamp round the lakes and expansions of the river early in September, and lay up a
store for the winter. It is excellent food, better than the southern rice, and is a mild diuretic.
Thousands of ducks, even the canvass-back, are attracted by the rice. Would this wild rice
not flourish if sown in the waters of the eastern and middle States? I think it would; and, if
so, a valuable crop might be obtained from a great number of acres which arc now almost
u.seless.
The seasons most productive of disease are spring and autumn. I have never thought the
marshes about this post produced disease till last fall. The Wisconsin overflowed its banks'
during the latter jiait of July of last year, submerging all the extensive marslies for two or
three weeks ; all except aquatic plants were killed. This was succeeded by excessively hot and
dry weather during the month of August and part of September, wlien we had a number of
cases of intermittent and remittent fever, which I think were caused by the decomposition of
vegetable matter on the marshes. One thing I think remarkable here: complaints of the
lungs, phthisis in all its forms, are less common here than at any post at which I was ever sta-
tioned. How shall we account for it? Is it the dry atmosphere?
The mean annual range ot temperature at this post is 120°, with an extreme range of 133°;
the thermometer registering in summer 104°, and in winter — 20°. The mean annual tempera-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 49
ture is 44°. 80. Mean annual precipitation, 27.49 inches. The prevailing winds are from the
north and nortlnvest.*
ft
FOKT CRAWFORD.
Fort Crawford, situated on the Mississippi, two miles above the mouth of the Wisconsin, is
on Prairie du Chien. This prairie, lying in the angle formed by these two rivers, is about 10
miles long and 2 wide, terminating on the east by a range of abrupt hills about 300 feet in
height. These bluffs present almost a naked surface, studded' with boldly projecting rocks.
The fort, which is about 300 yards from the Mississippi, is elevated 70 feet above its level.
Direct!}' in front of the fort is a marsh, which extends 5 miles up the river, and about as far
down as the mouth of the Wisconsin. This marsh, or slough, which exists only during the
low water of the summer and autumnal months, not unfrequently so abounds with putrid vege-
table matter as to be extremely offensive. The soil, which is generally fertile, producing
wheat, corn, rye, oats, and potatoes, abundantly, consists of a dark loam combined with lime
and silex. Lead, iron, and copper are ibund at many points ; and among the productions of
the forest, different varieties of quercus (oak), acer (maple), betula (birch), salix (willow),
juglans (walnut), and carya (hickory), stand most prominent.
The mean annual temperature, deduced from 19 years' observation, is 47°. 63, with a maxi-
mum of 100°, and a minimum of — 32°; extreme range, 132°. Mean annual precipitation, 31.40
inches.
FORT SNELLING.
Fort Snelling, situated in the angle formed by the confluence of the St. Peter's and Missis-
sippi, is elevated 94 feet above those waters, and about 820 feet above the level of the ocean.
The St. Peter's, at its mouth, is 150 yards wide and 16 feet deep ; and the Mississippi, at this
point, is about 400 yards wide, but is much less deep than the former. The banks of the latter,
up to the Falls of St. Anthony, a distance of eight miles, are about 200 feet high, the upper
strata of which consist of limestone, and the lower of sandstone. Beyond the falls, the banks
are less high, and the immediate valley of the river becomes more extended. The St. Peter's,
which has its source about 500 miles from this point, courses through a valley, varying in
breadth from one to three miles, which is marshy, owing to the inundations of the river. The
surface of the surrounding country presents an undulating prairie, studded here and there with
"islands" of timber. Large lakes, plentifully supplied with fish, are occasionally found. The
soil, although sandy, is productive. These facts have been furnished by Assistant Surgeon
John Emerson.
The mean annual temperature, deduced from a continuous series of observations for thirty
years, is 44°. 54, with a maximum of 100°, a minimum of — 40°, and an extreme range of 140°,
the mean annual range being 121°. The mean annual fall of rain and snow, for twenty years,
is 25.43 inches.
FORT ATKINSON.
In the absence of any special report respecting the topography of tliis station, the following
brief remarks are quoted from Assistant Surgeon Wm. S. King's report of sick for the third
quarter, 1840, shortly after the establishment of the post:
'•Fort Atkinson is situated fifty miles west of Fort Crawford, on an elevated plat of ground
between Turkey river on the north, and Spring creek on the south and east, the latter empty-
ing into the former about three-fourths of a mile from the post. The elevation on the side
next Spring creek is of crescentic form, and nearly perpendicular, commencing about fifty yards
«=• The remainder of this report, consisting principally of a description of the barrack and hospital accominodatious, is
omitted, not being applicable to their present condition. The results of more extended meteorological obBervations have
been substituted for those given in the original report. — C.
S. 96 7
50 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS ANP MORTALITY
from the margin of the stream, and descending on the opposite side by a gradual slope to Tur-
key river, from -which it is distant half a mile. Its height ahove those streams is 80 I'eet. The
country between the station and Turkey riyer is woodland. On the west, south, and east, it
is an open prairie, aftbrding afine view of from ten to fifteen miles in extent. Spring creek, as its
name implies, has its origin in numerous springs not far distant ; the water is used for drink-
ing, and for culinary purposes. The soil is mostly calcareous. The cases of fever at this post,
with few exceptions, can be traced to Fort Crawford."
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FOET DODGE, o
By Assistant Surgeon Charles C. Keeney : 1852.
"While describing the geographical position of this post, it will be necessary to say, that in
consequence of not being able to procure the necessary astronomical instruments for determining
the true latitude and longitude, I had to calculate them from maps; conse(iuently, my calcu-
lations may not be without a slight error — deviating a few minutes, either way, from the true
meridian.
According to my calculations, we are in latitude 42° 28' north, and longitude 17° 1' west
from Washington, which places us rather in the northwest corner of Iowa, on the Des Moines
river, and near the junction of the Lizard forks.
The Des Moines is a large and rapid stream, taking its rise from numerous small lakes in the
northwestern part of this State and Minnesota. Its average width is from one hundred to one
hundred and fifty yards, with a rapid current, a limestone bottom, and tolerably clear water.
The river is very tortuous in its course; but its general bearings are from northwest to south-
east, running through the whole course of the State, and emptying into the Mississippi a few
miles below Keokuk. It is considered navigable for light-draught steamers up to Fort Des
Moines, and probably is up to this fort in high water. The river at this point forms a cres-
cent, which bounds two sides of the fort, while a rolling prairie and a deep ravine, supporting
a grove of timber, cover the remaining sides.
The physical aspect of the country about the post is beautiful and picturesc[ue in the extreme.
At two points of the compass, east and west, to the utmost extent of vision, a vast undulating
prairie, supporting a luxuriant growth of flowers and grass, is in view ; while nearly from the
north to the south the majestic Des Moines is seen meandering through the boundless prairie,
flanked on either side with high bluft's and ledges of rocks, supporting in many places a dense
growth of timber of the choicest kind.
The general physical appearance of this vicinity and the country adjacent is of such a nature
as to lead one to suppose that this prairie country has once been the bottom of a vast sheet of water,
and at a period long subsequent to the Mosaic deluge. The deep ravines, embosoming small
rivulets ; the gentle undulations of the prairie uplands ; the peculiar geological formations of
the bluffs ; the fossiliferous depositions on the broad prairie, and particularly of the plutonic
and volcanic boulders (granite and trap) that are frequently to be seen on the open prairie,
probably hundreds of miles from their parent formations, are almost conclusive evidences that
the country, at no very great distant period back, was su))merged. Some of these boulders are
so large that they may be seen for miles, standing out in bold relief on the prairie. Their
general surface is rough and uneven, with few signs of having been worn by rolling, which
goes to show that they were transported (probably on icebergs) to their distant and isolated
abodes. The uplands, with their laciistrine-Yikc appearance, and the blufiTs of the rivers, with
their apparently modern sedimentary formations, also, are so many living witnesses to testify to
the fact that at least this immediate vicinity was once a vast lake. Numerous physical and
geolo^cal facts might be brought forward in corroboration of this assertion ; but, as the limits
o Fort Des Moines was occupied about three years, and then abandoned. It was at the head of navigation, on the Des
Moines river. No medico-topncraphical report of the locality can be found in thp Medical Bureau. — C.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 51
of this paper will not permit of more than a general sketch of the physical aspect of the post,
and as it is foreign to my subject, I will proceed to give a brief description of the geological form-
ations.
From the above remarks on tlie physical characters of this vicinity, it will he inferred that no
subterranean convulsions, no upheavals, or any other volcanic actions, have visited and raised
up tlie present formations in this part of Iowa; but, on the other liand, it can more easily be
imagined that, when the waters covered the surface, the strata of the various rocks were gradually
deposited, one upon the other, by the same process as is now daily going on before our eyes in
the same formations.
The chief formation in this immediate vicinity is the aqueous, or sedimentary rock, including
nearly all its varieties — the calcareous, the gypsum (sulphate of lime), silicious, and argilla-
ceous rocks. The calcareous rock is the chief, and it may truly be said forms the backbone of all
the other sedimentary and fossiliferous bodies of this class of rocks. It lies in detached pieces
and in solid masses all along the shores of the Des Moines and its tributaries, forming the bulk
of the bluffs and cliffs, and also the beds of the rivers.
Carbonate of lime seems to jiredomiuate over all the varieties of this rock. At many points,
particularly on the small tributaries of the Des Moines, the form of stratification varies materi-
ally. At one point, a series of strata of carbonate of lime forms high bluffs ; while, at another
point, a stratum of carbonate of lime alternates with one of argillaceous rock; then, again, ar-
gillaceous and arenaceous strata are suj^erimposed on layers of carbonate of lime. In many
places on the Des Moines are seen beds of shale alternating with beds of lime strata. Not far
from tliis post, and on the river, is an extensive bed of shale combined with argillaceous and
calcareous matter. This rock has forced itself out of the banks of the river, at an angle of 50°.
The great dip this stratification presents, I am led to believe, from the 'physical as well as the
geological features, was brought about by the sliding of the earth, caused by the action of water.
I am further led to this belief from the fact, that the stratification all around this district is
nearly horizontal; and, also, from there being no marks or signs of internal commotions having
occurred, no dislocation and distortion of strata. This bed of shale bears strongly the physical
features of coal. Its stratification is well defined, and between many of its laminaj are enclosed
organic remains, many of which have strong impressions of various plants. These beds of
shale (bituminous, I think) are quite numerous on the banks of the Des Moines, and are not im-
frequently taken for rich beds of coal. I view them only as so many indications of an inferior
quality of coal hidden in the banks.
On one of the small rivulets that empties into the Des Moines is a bed of gypsum (sulphate
of lime), a soft, white and yellowish rock, witli the stratification (as usual) nearly horizontal,
and, like the other rocks, bearing N.W. and S.E. It appears to be free from the other varieties
of rock.
In some of the bluffs are deep fissures and rents, and appearances of dykes, that would lead
the superficial observer to suppose they were produced by subterranean convulsions and up-
heavals. A bird's-eye view of their geograpliical features will show that laud-slides and the
action of water were their origin.
The only palieontological evidences observed in these rocks were the fossiliferous plants, and
impressions in the shale deposits already spoken of. These fossiliferous remains were so indi.s-
tinct as to render it impossible either to determine tlieir class, order, or species.
As may be supposed, from the above formations, the metalliferous and other mineral indi-
cations are exceedingly few. The great requisites for the metalliferous productions, as trap,
conglomerate, basalt, porphyry, and other crystalline rocks, are wanting. The only mineral
this formation can produce (as far as my superficial explorations have gone) is coal ; and this
in such poor qualities, that an attempt to work a mine for profit would be of doubtful ex-
pediency.
From the above remarks on the geological structure, it is to be supposed that the general
52 REPORT ON TllE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
surftice of the country supports a good soil. In the bottom lands, bordering the rivers, and
where the land has been frequently inundated from the frequent swellings of the streams, the
soil is exceedingly rich and productive. It is, for the most part, composed of alluvial deposit
lying on a bed of limestone ; and superimposed upon this deposit is a thick covering of vege-
table mould. The soil of the uplands differs somewhat from this. It consists of a black earth,
composed of sand and clay intermixed with calcareous matter. It holds in composition less
organic matter than that of the bottom land. But this soil, composed as it is of loam, marl,
and here and there of infusorial earth, and having for a base a thick bed of calcareous matter,
is cixpable of producing rich crops of corn, wheat, oats, &e., year after year, without any
material drain on its fertilizing powers.
Next to the physical features of a country, and not second to it in point of health and pros-
perity, is climatology. I believe it is conceded by all, that a rich and productive soil, with an
unequable and treacherous climate, is more pernicious to health, and less to be coveted by the
agriculturist, than a less fertilizing soil with a good climate. Such, truly, ought to be so; for
while tlie soil is amendable through the medium of the arts, climate, on the other hand, is beyond
the reach of art and science.
Before speaking of the climatic characteristics of this jiost, it will be as well to premise my
remarks by saying that this post is not quite two years old, and only part of this time have
meteorological observations been taken ; consequently, I can only speak of the climatic peculiar-
ities of one year, which peculiarities may not be in accordance with a series of years of the past
or to come. But still, from a careful study of climatology, and with the physical features of a
country before the eye, one is enabled, in a great measure, to form a tolerably correct opinion
of the general character of the climate of a country.
By reference to the Meteorological Kegister, it is found that the past winter was rigor-
ous and changeable in the extreme ; not rigorous from the low degree to which the mer-
cury would at times fall, but from the constant Iiurricane-like winds that rushed I'rom the
north, and swept over the prairie, chilling the innermost blood, both of man and beast.
The same register shows that this last month (June) was subject to great thermometric changes.
During the month of January, 1852, the mercury fell to the lowest graduated degree of our
thermometers — namely, 28° below zero ; and had the graduation been still lower, (or the
thermometer longer, as some are wont to have it,) the mercury would, in all probability,
have fallen to 30° or 35° below zero. Last month, as the table shows, the mercury rose to 97°
in the shade. During the summer months, the wind almost incessantly blows a gale from the
south, which has its salutary efl'ects, as will be seen when we come to speak of disease, &c.
It is needless to remark, that these great atmospheric changes are attributable, in the main,
to the following physical causes: At the north, south, east, and west, all is one vast stretch of
prairie, and nowhere is there a great body of water to modify and mollify the temperature by
evaporation and condensation. Even during the greater part of the summer montlis, there are
no clouds in the sky to parry off the piercing rays of the sun.
The s])rings are also exceedingly changeable and uncertain. The agriculturist will experi-
ence many reverses in his fields, arising from the great atmosj)hcric vicissitudes. He may retire
to his bed with his heart light from the growing and thrifty appearance of his croj^s, and in the
morning he will go out and return with his heart saddened and chilled by the frosts of May and
June. But there is one redeeming feature in this treacherous climate, which, in despite of the
great and sudden changes, renders it quite salubrious. It is this: the atmosphere is exceed-
ingly dry at all times. Tlie salutary influence this hygrometric feature has, will be referred to
when we come to speak of disease, &c.
As soil and climate are the fountains from which disease, in its general sense, takes its rise,
it will not be out of place here to speak briefly of the nature and causes of the various maladies
that occur at this post.
The register of sick shows remittent and intermittent to be the i^revailing fevers at this
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 63
post, and diseases of the resiMratory organs t'o predominate over all others. As regards remit-
tents and intermittents being the prevailing fevers at this jdace, the fact not only holds good
here, but has generally been so at all the various stations at which I have been, particu-
laidy at those posts where the cultivation of the soil has been one of the duties of the command.
The secret may be this; trees are felled, the soil is turned up, and a greater surface exposed for
the direct rays of the sun to promote decorajiosition of the tree-tops, the turf, and other vegeta-
ble matter brought to light. As a general rule, at all new military posts (and I think the same
will liold good in all new agricultural districts) the people are more exempt from miasmatic
fevers the first year than the second and third. This exemption may be owing to the cause of
the malarious influence brought to light by art (if I may so speak) not having had sufficient time
to become thoroughl}^ developed by the action of the sun, and other causes, to make its impres-
sions ou the nervous and sanguiferous systems. But not so at posts and in old agricultural
districts where there are already natural and living sources for the generation of miasmatic
poison. Here the subject immediately imbibes and experiences the effect of the poison in a few
weeks, or even in a few days. Adopting the old notions of vegetable decomposition in its vari-
ous forms as the "fons et origo" of bilious remittents and intermittents; and while discarding
the cryptogamous and other fanciful theories of the present day, I am prepared to state that all
the remittents and intermittents that have occurred at this post were caused by the imbibition
and absorption of miasmatic poison generated by the vegetable decomposition in the bottom lands,
where gardening and farming have been carried on. Nearly all the men who have been the sub-
jects of these fevers were the ablest bodied men of the command, and, when on other duty in the
uplands, enjoyed perfect immunity from those fevers ; but no sooner would they be detailed for hor-
ticultural duty, than they would report sick with one of these fevers. I am aware that some late
writers are endeavoring to prove that miasmatic poison is not the source from whence these
fevers arise; and, as irrefutable arguments, they cite instances of armies that have been deci-
mated by these forms of fevers, in those places where there was not the slightest evidence of
vegetable decomposition, and other sources for the generation of miasmata. Biit they seem to
forget, or at least leave out the important fact, that these same armies, during their long and
rapid marches, have encamped one or more nights in miasmatic districts, where the body has taken
in the malarious seeds ; and after two months, or two weeks' fatigue and exposure to a scorch-
ing sun, these seeds have grown up, the fruits of which were a congestive remittent and
intermittent fever.
The sick report shows but few cases of rheumatism. Considering the great range which
the thermometer has here in all the four seasons, it might be supposed that rheumatism would
form a conspicuous part in the catalogue of diseases. But, on the contrary, it is quite rare
here, owing, in all probability, to the hygrometric feature of the atmosphere. At all sea-
sons of the year, and during tlie greatest thermometric changes, the atmosphere is exceedingly
free from moisture.
Most of the diseases of the respiratory system were of the mildest nature, and in the majority
of the cases were unaccompanied with febrile action. The only diseases of the chest, involving
the substance of the lungs and pleura, were imi^rted cases. The mildness of the diseases of
tlie thoracic organs may also be attributed to the general dryness of the atmosphere during
the great thermometric changes.
Dysentery and diarrhoea, in chronic forms, are not known here; and dysentery, in its acute
form, is rare.
To sum up, the health of the command is exceedingly good at all times. The following may
be the causes why it is so: First, the peculiar hygrometric feature of the atmosphere, being
free from moisture at all times; secondly, the pure and limpid waters, both of the running
streams, and particularly of the numerous springs that gush out of the bluffs, and from the
bottom lands, some of which are slightly impregnated with the salts of iron and sulphur;
thirdly, to the constant winds that carry off all elfluvia, as fast as generated^ to distant parts ;
54 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
and also to the constant cmitloyment of the men in their various duties; to their wholesome
diet (salt and fresh meat, combined with a due proportion of vegetable matter); and jjartieu-
larly to thorotighli/ baked bread, and no whisky.
As far as my experience has gone at military posts, I have found bread badly baked, and an
undue quantity of alcoholic drinks, to be the chief originators of the diseases of the digestive
organs. Too much stress cannot be laid on the importance of having bread thoroughly baked.
I have not unfrequently seen two-thirds of a command at a time afflicted with diseases of tlie
digestive organs, arising from one single batch of badly baked bread. The company baker
and bake-house should be daily inspected; and as the art of making bread is a chemical pro-
cess, none are so competent to make this inspection as the medical officer of the post. Strin-
gent orders should be issued, enjoining on the commanding officer of the post to see this
imjiortant inspection daily made.
As II full development of the Flora does not take place before the latter part of July and
August, only a general outline of the botanical characters can be expected here. The botani-
cal characters that merit sjiecial notice, are the following: The wild rose and strawberry, in
this vicinity, seem to be twin brothers, as they are found together, growing in great profusion
around the borders of the prairie and timber. The fleur-de-lis (iris) is found growing in
marsliy ground, and dowers in June. The blue violet {viola ccaridea), the blazing star, and
several other species of the liatris, with their long spikes of purple flowers, the calla palustris,
the wild turnip (arum), the petalostemons, with their luxuriant heads of violets, the cone-
Howers (rudbeckia), the wild sun-flower (kelianthus), the golden rod (solidago), the eye-bright
(euphorbia corollata), &c., are found growing in the uplands and bottom lands, and add lustre to
the spring and summer dress of the prairie. The wild ginger (asarum Canadense) grows in the
ravines, and flowers in May and June. There is one plant, everywhere to be found on the
prairie, that at all times attracts the attention of the traveller, not only from its height and
brightness of flowers, but because its leaves are endowed with peculiar qualities. It is the
compass, or polar plant (silphiura laciniatum). It is a plant that grows from one to five feet
high, rather coarse in its genei'al aspect, and with a ferny leaf. The flower is like that of the
sun-flower. This plant is celebrated for the peculiar property of its leaves, pointing due north
and south. Some have said the leaves do not always point north and south, but go with the
wind. From many and careful observations on this plant, I can say that its polarity can be
as much relied on as the magnetic needle ; and were 1 to travel a long distance over the prairie,
I would sooner trust to the polarity of this plant than to the magnetic needle, as the former is
not influenced by local attraction, while the latter is. As ibr the leaves being influenced by the
winds, I have often seen the stock bent near to the ground by the force of the winds, while the
leaves were still pointing north and south. The cause of this peculiar property of the leaves
is inexplicable. Tlie magnet reveals none of its secrets, nor does dissection. But still, I am
inclined to think tliat its polarity is dependent on magnetism, influenced by the action of light
on its leaves.
Among the slirubs may be mentioned the wafer-ash (ptelea trifoUaUi), being an ingredient in
the celebrated Indian tobacco. The red bud (cercis Canadensis) puts Ibrtli its flowers before its
leaves. The burning bush (eitonyrmis atro-purpureus) , and the cotfee-tree (gymnodudus Cana-
densis), also, are found in the timber. In addition to the above, there are in this vicinity the
gooseberry (ribes 3Iissouriensis), the crab-apple (pyrus coronaria), the wild plum (primus Ameri-
cana), the black walnut (juglans nigra), the butternut (Juglans cinerea); the two last adorn the
forest with their rich and luxuriant foliage.
The beautiful groves of timber that skirt the juairic and rivers are composed chiefly of tlie
following trees: With the addition of the black and white walnut, are the black oak (quercus
nigra), white oak (qnercHs alba), the sugar maple (acer saccharinum), the bass-wood (tilia), the
white poi>lar (tlie American aspen), the white elm (idmus Americana).
This country has so long been the abode of the red man, and his incursions have been so
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 55
frequent over the prairie, and in the forests^ in pursuit of the buffalo, the elk, the deer, &c.,
that nearly all of these animals have forsaken this ground, and gone farther west and
north ; and the few that are occasionally seen here, are so wild that it is with the greatest diffi-
culty they can he brought within reach of th? rifle-ball. The buffalo is sometimes met with on
the open prairie, a few miles west of this post. They appear to be the stragglers of the buffalo
army, and wander off, into, or near by, the settlements. The elk is seen in herds of two and
three hundred, about the head waters of the Lizard river, some thirty miles from here. Hunting
parties frequently pass by our post in pursuit of their young. The parties drive with them
cows, and, when the young elk are taken_, the cows suckle and protect them as if their own
offspring. They are then driven into the settlements, and, when grown up, are trained to the
harness. The deer is frequently seen bounding over the prairie from one grove of timber to
another. The prairie is their summer's retreat, while in winter they seek the more comfortable
and secluded habitations of the forest. The black bear is now and then met with, prowling
about the outskirts of the post. The prairie wolf is a frequent visitor during the fall and
winter. He is the most stupid of all animals, and is harmless to everything except to the hen-
roost and sheep-fold. During the spring and fall, the rivers and sloughs swarm with the wild
goose, the brant, and numerous species of ducks. They make their appearance in the spring,
as soon as the ice is out of the river, sport about for two or three weeks, and then proceed
north — following the course of the rivers, where they lay and hatch. On the first intimations
of cold weather, they return back to these waters, where they again remain for one or two
weeks, and then proceed to a warmer and more genial climate.
The wild turkey — the king of the feathered tribe — makes his apjiearance in these forests in
the fall, and is so wild that none but the best of shots take him.
The streams seem to be only moderately supplied with the finny tribe. The pickerel, the
pike, the cat, and the bass, are the principal, if not the only fish that swim in these waters.
On the tributaries of the Des Moines are numerous beaver-dams, where large numbers of
these most sagacious of all animals make their winter-quarters. In the immediate neighbor-
hood of these dams, acres are cleared, and trees, from one to eight inches in diameter, are felled
by the teeth of these animals. No animal is more sagacious and ingenious than the beaver.
The architectural and engineering tact displayed in the construction of these dams would
reflect credit on a genus of animals much higher on the scale of existence than they.
But few varieties of reptiles are seen here. The prairie rattle-snake presents the same
physical characters as the common rattle-snake everywhere in the United States. The moc-
casin, a venomous snake, is also found on the prairie, in common witli the striped snake. The
above two are the only venomous reptiles found in this district. Tlie bull -snake (boa Americana)
is common on the prairie and in the timber. He grows to an enormous size, and is frequently
found to be ten feet in length. This reptile is harmless to man, but is a deadly enemy to the
rattle-snake whenever they come in contact. This snake is held in great esteem by the Indian,
and killing it would, by him, be considered more than sacrilege. Well might it be so
esteemed by the white man, as they are so great a scourge to tliat most venomous of all rep-
tiles — the dread of the prairie.
The country, as yet, is new and very sparsely settled. There are scarcely twenty jiersons
in as many miles of the post. The few who have settled in this district are chiefly from Mis-
souri and Indiana. Before the establishment of this post (in the summer of 1850), there
were not half a dozen settlers this side of Fort Des Moines. The few wlio have located here are
engaged in the cultivation of the soil. They are of the poorest class of settlers from the above
States ; and, judging from the general aspect of tlieir farms, from their lean, lank, and half-fed
cattle, their squalid and hungry-looking children — huddled in the same room in common
with pigs, chickens, &c. — one would be apt to infer they were more indolent than enterprising,
and more filthy than cleanly.
Tlie red man has long since deserted these his old hunting-grounds, and gone to seek abodes
5G REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
farther west, where the buffiilo, the elk, and the deer roam in greater numbers and with less
fear of the rifle. A lew scattering bands, however, principally of the Sioux and Cliiiipewa
tribes, are still lianging on the outskirts of this State. During the winter season, small ]iarties
of these scattered tribes come into the neighborhood of this post for the purpose of hunting,
trapping, and trading. Tlie same bands not unfrcqucntly make incursions into the settle-
ments, carry olY cattle, horses, &c., and commit other like depredations on the defenceless
inhabitants. In their nature, they are treacherous and predatory; and even the small i)arties
who visit us, and who receive many hospitalities, are not wanting in the above characteristic
traits ; and were it not for fear of the bayonet, they would, undoubtedly, practise some of
their barbarous cruelties on those from whom they receive hospitalities. When driven to
extreme hunger, there are no bounds to their inhumanity ; they become cannibals in the
strictest sense of the word. The following facts, which I have from undoubted authority, and
almost from an eyewitness, go to show that even those on the borders of the States are capable
of practising the most sickening and inhuman customs. During the winter of ISoO-'ol,
a band of this tribe (Sioux) were wintering in the forests in the northwestern part of this State.
There being no snow to track the footsteps of the deer, they were in consequence driven to the
very verge of starvation. In one family of this band were a father, mother, and three children.
The mother doted on her youngest child, a boy of three years. On him rested her fondest
hopes, and on him were lavished her dearest affections. Being driven to despair by the tor-
turing pangs of hunger, she caressed him, folded him in her arms, and put him into a sleep.
No sooner was the mother's darling boy in a sweet sleep, when the concealed knife was taken
from her bosom and drawn across his throat — severing all to the very bone. She quenched her
thirst by sipping his warm blood, and satisfied her hunger by feeding on his quivering flesh.
In the course of ten or twelve days, the pangs of hunger returned. Her second boy, a youth of
ten years, like the first, was made the food of her morbid appetite. After the lapse of two
weeks, the pangs of hunger returned again, but with redoubled vigor. She resolved on
destroying her third son, a boy of sixteen years of age, the firstborn and the father's favorite.
By her caresses, he also was put to sleep, and, while asleep, she poured molten lead into his ear.
This more novel way of extinguishing life proved fatal to her. The pangs soon awakened the
boy, and caused him to scream aloud. The father, although frantic with hunger, was never-
theless attracted by the cries of his beloved boy. The deed was still fresh before him. His
eves were then opened to the fate of his lost children. He clenched his tomahawk and felled
the mother to the ground. His knife soon finished the stroke, by taking her scalp from licr
head. He, in turn, feasted on her carcass.
There being so few Indians about here, it will be impossible to collect any vital statistical
knowledge worthy of note. As far as I am informed, the numerous Indian tribes west and
north of us are fast becoming extinct by cholera and smallpox — by the latter disease in par-
ticular. As far as my observations have gone with the Indian tribes heretofore, I have gene-
rally observed that when disease, particularly a fever, takes hold of the Indian, (if he is at all
sick,) he succumbs to the fever in spite of the "medicine man." Their mode of living,
habits, and customs, are all conducive to staving off disease — particularly in its chronic form.
Their articles of diet alone, could they only be introduced into civilized circles, would banish
dyspepsia in'all its protean forms ; the name itself would soon be forgotten.
There is a common article of diet, principally used by the half-breeds employed in the Hud-
son Bay and American Fur Companies on their long marches, and who also subsist on it at their
permanent winter-quarters. It supplies both the place of bread and meat, and, for its remark-
ably nutritious qualities, ease of digestion, and for the great iivcilities of transportation which the
compactness and small bulk of this article afford, make it well worthy the notice of the Depart-
ment. It is called pemican. Lieutenant Corley, U. S. A., who has subsisted on it for some
time, and to whom I am chiefly indebted for the information of this invaluable article of diet,
says it is composed of buftalo meat and buffalo tallow. The process for preparing it is this :
AMONG tht: troops in the northeen division. 57
the Tjiiffalo meat is first tlioroiighly dried in the sun, and then pounded until it is about the
consistence of meal : tlio tallow is melted, and freed from all impurities, and is then poured on
the meat and well stirred. The jiroportions should be about equal, or, if any difference, there is
a little more tallow than meat. The mixture, being well stirred, is then poured into sacks
made of xmtanned liuffalo hide, and allowed to cool ; no salt is used — probably to prevent thirst.
The sacks contain from twenty to forty jjounds, for convenience of transportation. Tlie mix-
ture being poured in iJie sacks while in a liquid state, it, of course, packs itself into a small
sjiace. It keeps well without salt, and, when properly made, will be perfectly good at the
expiration of a year. This article is used almost entirely by the fur-traders of the Hudson Bay
and American Fur Companies as their only food when travelling. Lieutenant Corley also says
he was informed by tlie traders of the fiir companies, that thev know of no article of food that
could supply its place iu convenience of transportation, in cheapness, and in nutritious quali-
ties. It is also highly palatable.
Some estimate can be made of the quantity of this article it would take to sustain a healthy
working man, from the quantity it takes to sustain the train-dogs the fur-traders use. The dogs
they use for drawing their sledges and carrying their packs, are of a large breed, and travel
fifty miles a day ; they give to the dogs one pound of pemican a day ; this is as much as they
can eat, and it not only keeps up their strength, but keeps them fat.
Knowing that one pound is sufficient to sustain a dog of the above description, and while
travelling with a heavy burden fifty miles a day, it might be supposed that fifteen pounds
would be an ample allowance for a soldier on twenty days' march, carrying with him, at the
same time, his musket, his knapsack, and his pemican.
I can conceive no other article of diet to be so invaluable to the soldier as the above, where
transportation is limited, and difficult marches are to be made, as inevitably will be the
case hereafter, with our whole army, on the great prairies east and west of the Rocky
Mountains.
MEDICAL TOrOGEAPHY AXD DISEASES OF FORT RITLET.
Bj Assistant Surgeon J. Frazier Head : 1852.
Fort Ripley is situated in latitude 46° 10' 30" N. ; longitude 94° 18' 30" W., upon the' west
bank of the Mississiiipi, elevated 20 feet above that river, and probably* about 1,100 feet above
the Gulf of Mexico. The little river Nokay empties into the Mississipiii from the east, at about
300 yards north of this point. The post is built upon a sandy plateau, partially drained by
shallow ravines at its northern and southern extremities, terminating abruptly at the steep
river bank, and to the west gradually sloping toward a narrow swamp, about half a mile in
rear of the fort. Beyond this is a range of thickly wooded hills, rising to a height of 100 or
150 feet, which slightly shelter the post from the northwest winds of winter. To the westward
of the hills, again, is a belt of broken surface, so thickly covered with woods and swamps, that
since the establishment of the post no white man has ever traversed it to any considerable dis-
tance. Above and below the fort, the river is skirted by a narrow belt of swampy land, usually
partially inundated in spring, supporting a growth of linden or bass-wood ((ilia), elms (ulmits),
maple (acer ruhrum), and birch (betula), which, with pine and poplar on the higher grounds,
and a luxuriant undergrowth of hazel and other shrubs, constitute the sylva of this immediate
neighborhood. Over and around the site of the post, a fire has swept in former years, leaving
hundreds of scotched and decaying pines still standing, or encumbering the ground.
On the east side of the Mississippi (here about ISO yards wide), a gently undulating, sandy,
and barren prairie, from a lew hundred yards to three miles wide, extends from the mouth of
° Tha mouth of the Crow ^Ving river, about six miles above Fort Ripley (the nearest point the elevation of which is
known), iu 1,130 feet above the level of the Gulf of Mexico.
S. 96 8
58 RTirORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALTTY
the Nokay to the southward, hordered hy a growth of oats and pines along the Mississippi, and
by a range of low hills, partially covered with oaks, on the west. Opposite to the post is a strip
of land less sterile than the rest, which has been for several years under cnltivation, and part
of which is also liable to overflow in the spring. East of the hills above mentioned, lies a more
undulating tract, interspersed with swamps abounding in "tamarac" (larix Americana).
The trees above enumerated constitute the jirevailiug growth of this region ; the oaks are
chiefly the "burr" oak and "black jack" (quercus nigra), with a few white and red oaks of
stunted growth ; and of the species of trees used in the arts, the wood is generally of very
inferior quality. The sugar-maple {acer saccharinum) abounds within a few miles of this place,
and in most of this portion of Minnesota. The chestnut, walnut, and beech are unknown, as is
every species of fruit-tree, wild or cultivated.
The soil generally is a sandy alluvium. No rock has been found within many miles, except
scattered boulders of granite, from which was obtained the little stone necessary in building the
fort. The land, at least when first cultivated, is more productive than might be supposed,
being what farmers term "warm," and adapted to the short summers. The ivater is mode-
rately soft, pure, and wholesome.
The climate is subject to great variation, as will be seen by a reference to the meteorological
register. The extremes of temperature observed are 96° (in August, 1849,) and — 39° (January
18th, 1852). The latest killing frost in spring was on June ITth, 1849, and the earliest on
August 14th, 1851*. A variation of temijerature of 30 or 40 degrees in a few hours is not un-
common. On the 11th and 12th of February, 1851, the mercury rose in about 32 hours, from
— 34° to 35° — a range of 69 degrees. Fires are necessary to comfort during a part of every
month in the year, except, occasionally, July and August; and cattle must be foraged from
seven to nine months. •
The phenomena of spring, when once begun, often progress with great rapidity; and from
the climate of winter, the region sometimes seems to jjass at once into that of mid-summer.
Lettuce (germinated in hot-beds) and radishes are fit for the table, in favorable seasons, about
the middle of June ; wild strawberries, which are found here in great abundance, ripen from
the 15th to the last of the same month. Green peas are ready for use about the second or third
week in July. Oats and potatoes appear to flourish, though a large proi^ortion of the latter were
destroyed last year by the "rot." Maize is considered a very uncertain crop, owing to the short-
ness of the summer. The experiment of planting winter wheat was tried in two cases last
autumn, but it would seem with very indifferent success.
From about the last third of August till the ground is covered with snow, which usually
occurs in November, the weather is generally clear and delightful, with a dry, bracing atmo-
sphere, and equable temperature. After the first considerable fall of snow, the earth's surface
remains constantly covered for about five months. The average depth of snow, as roughly es-
timated from the three winters since the occupation of tlie post, is from 2 to 3i feet. An idea
of the severity of the winter may be formed from the fact that mo7'e than double the government
monthly allowance of fuel is required to warm the quarters, though used in large stoves.
To the Flora of this region but little attention has been paid; and I leave this part of the
subject to subsequent and more competent observers. It may be remarked, however, that the
wild raspberry (rubus odoratus) is occasionally met ; gooseberries (i-ibes grossularia) are com-
mon ; the blue-berry (t'acciniwm ), a small fruit resembling the whortleberry, is quite
abundant on the hills east of the Mississippi, ripening in July. Wild rice (zizania aquatica)
is found in many of the lakes, which in autumn are the haunt of thousands of wild-fowl. This
plant, which forms an important part of the food of the Indians, has been cut ofi"in many places
around this post, for two years past, by the unusual height of the waters. The dandelion (ta-
" This was Rufticient to check the growth of pumpUins, squashes, and similar vines, but more hardy plants survived.
Tlie heavy autumnal frosts usually hecfin from the 20th to the last of September, after which time vegetable life is at an
end for about six months.
AMONG THE TEOOPS IN TUE NORTHERN DIVISION. 69
raxacum dens leonis) is entirely wanting above tlic Falls of St. Anthony, though abundant at
Fort Snelling.
Tlie Mammalia most frequently found are the prairie and large grey wolf {canis latrans and
C. occideiitcdis) , — the former by far tlie more alnindiint ; the red deer (cervus Virginianus) , not
very numerous; the ground squirrel (sciurus striatus), field-mouse (mus leucopusf), weasel (mus-
iela erminea) , nxwiik-vAi (Jihcr zibcfhicm), badger (niele-s Lahradoria), and porcupine (hi/sfrtx
dorsata) ; and occasionally tlie otter {lutria BrazlUensis) , marten (rnustela martes), mink (J/.
lutreola), skunk (me])liitis Amer.), lynx (lynx Canadensis), and red fox (cams fulvus) . Other va-
rieties of fox are taken somewhat farther north, (O. decusatus, C. argentatus, and C. cinereo-
argenlatus), and may inhabit this neighborhood. The black bear (ursus Amer.), though found
in the surrounding region, has never been seen in the immediate vicinity of the post. The
moose (cervus alces) and carriboo (C. tarandus) are said to be occasionally seen at about 1.50
miles north, and the elk (C. Canadensis) on the prairies 30 or 40 miles west of this place. The
grej"^ squirrel (sciurus Carolinensis) is not found in any part of the Territor}'. The buffalo (bison
Americanus) does not approach within one or two hundred miles. In the autumn of 1848, the
varying hare (lejyus Virginianus), vulgo "white rabbit," was very abundant ; but during the
following year (the winter of which was not unusually severe) they almost com^^letely disap-
peared from a region for many miles around this point. Many of the Indians, who depend
much on these animals for subsistence during the winter, were, consequently, reduced to actual
starvation.
Of birds, the following species have been identified : The golden eagle (/aZco /mZujm), bald
.eagle (F. letLcoceiilialus) , owl (strix FiVf/iwt'a/ia), meadow-lark (slurmis ludovicianus) , red-winged
and cow l^ckbirds (icterus phoeniceus and I.pecoris), crow blackbird (quiscalus versicolor), raven
(parvus corax), crow (C. Amer.), blue jay (C. cristalus), chickadee" (parus atricapillus) , cedar-
bird (ioHii^/ci'to Carolin.), king-bird (muscica pa tyr annus), pewee (31. fusca),i\\r\\B\\, (turdu,s
ru/us), robin (T. migratorius) , yellow-bird (.sytoi'a a?s<iua;-), blue-bird (sialia Wllsonii), rare;
snow-bunting (emberiza nivalis), wood-peckers (picus auratus, P. erythroce2)halus, P. pubescens),
king-fisher (alcedo alcyon), swallow (hirundo rufa), whip-poor-will and night-hawk (caprimul-
gus vociferus, C. Amer.), i:)igeon, (columha migratoria), "pheasant," or "partridge" (tctrao
umhellus), grouse (T. cupido?),* golden plover (charadrius marmoratus) , killdeer, (Ch. vociferus),
crane (grus Canad., Bonap.), green heron (ardea virescens), curlew (numenius longirostris) ,
sandpipers (tringce), yello\f-legs (totanus vociferus), smaller do. (T. flavipes), peet-weet (2'. ma-
c«?arms), upland jjlover (T'. Bartramiif), snipe (scolopax Wllsonii) , a. few woodcock, (Seminar),
rail (ralhis ), coot (fulica Amer.), horned grebe (podiceps cor'nutv,s), terns (sterna, seve-
ral S2:)ecies), goose (anser Canad.), brent (A. hernicla), loon (colymhus glacialis, mcrgus merg-
anser, M. cucidlatus). Ducks of the following species, and, doubtless, others not identified: The
golden-eye (fuUgida ciangida) , ^caiv^ Awck ox hlvLC-hiW (F. marila), buffel-head (F. albeola),
dusky duck (anas obscura), mallard (A. boscJms), summer duck (anas sponsa), and teal (A. dis-
cors and A. crecca). The ducksf pass this point nearly in the order of the above enumeration,
on their way northward, the first appearing about the middle of Ai)ril; and return, nearly in
an inverse order, late in August and early in September. A few individuals of nearly all the
above-mentioned species appear to breed in this latitude, as does also, occasionally, the Canada
goose. Lingering for a few weeks about the rice-lakes in this vicinity, where they acquire a
fine condition and flavor, they continue their course to the south in October and November, by
the middle of which month the last of the migratory tribes have disappeared; and tlie grouse
*' This bird, at lirst nitliur nirc, but now rapiJly multiplying in this vicinity, difl'ers somewhat in plumage, and peiiuips
in its habits, IVom the descriptions of T. ciipido. It is possibly T. jiliasiandhis. Never having examined either species before
comin to this station, and possessing neither plate nor a good description of the latter bird when specimens were procura-
ble, I am at present unable to determine the question.
j The canvass-back and red-head (/'. vulisneriana and /'. /oiiui) ha\ e never been observed here, though both are frequently
met at Fort Snelling.
60 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
having retired into the recesses of the forest, tlie raven, bhie-jay, and snow hunting are left ap-
parently the sole feathered inhabitants of this desolate region.
Tho reptiles have scarcely been noted. Of serpents, the only sjiecies seen are the common
"garter-snake" (co^(7)er sis^raZis), and a species of adder. The rattle-snake, if ever met above
the Falls of St. Anthony, must be very rare. Two are reported to have been killed at the
Sac rapids, about 50 miles south of this place.
Tlie fish most abimdant in the Mississippi at this point, and in the neighboring streams and
small lakes, (which appear to be but scantily supplied with them,) are the " glass-eye" Ohio
"salmon" or pike-jierch (lucioperca Amer.), lake bass {grystes nigricans?), and rock bass (cen-
trarclius a-neus), or species much resemliling them ; yellow perch (pcrcajlavcscens), of small size
and somewhat rare; a large species of sun-fish {^pomotis appendix), pike, weighing from one to
eight pounds (esox vittatusf), small cat-fish {pimelodus), and a variety of suckers, &c. (cypri-
nidxe). The gar-jiike (lepidosteus) has never been seen, nor are any of the salmonidce found in tlie
streams falling into the Mississippi north of the Falls of St. Anthony. A species of white-fish,
called by the Indians tidahie (a coregonus?) is taken, however, in some of the lakes nearer to the
sources of this river. A large pike, specifically distinct from that above mentioned, and weigh-
ing from eight to forty pounds, is occasionally taken here, and more frequently in the river
Minnesota. Two specimens captured here weighed, respectively, eighteen and twenty-eight
pounds. The only one examined seems to differ both from E. horcus and E. esfor.
The entomologist would find a wide field for research in this region. Insect life here appears
to compensate for its brevity by its astonishing activity. During the short summer, the woods
and prairies swarm with insects, among the most noticeable of which are the mosquito, the
large "horse-fly," and the "black fly" — a small, dijjterous insect, with black body and white
legs. The last two species inflict almost inconceivable torture on the domestic animals, efiectu-
ally keeping in poor condition those turned out to graze, and obliging the farmer regularly to
make a large smoke at night to windward of his cattle-yard. The mosquitoes are said to be
more abundant here during June and July, than in the swamps of Louisiana, and are a most
serious annoyance, both by day and night, to those whose pursuits call them much abroad.
The honey-bee is unknown here, but is reported to have appeared in the southern portion of the
Territory within a few years.
Of sickness in the garrison, happily, but little is to be said, beyond a few remarks explana-
tory of the accompanying tabular statement.* Under the head of^ intermittent fever, are em-
braced 10 cases of quotidian, 18 of tertian, and 3 quartans. That of diseases of the digestive
system comprises 2 cases of common cholera, 24 of diarrhoea, 12 of acute dysentery, 25 of dys-
pepsia, 20 of constipation, and 4 of tonsillitis. Those of the respiratory organs are, bronchitis
acuta 7, catarrhus 31, phthisis 1, pleuritis 1, pneumonia 0; of the brain and nervous system,
cephalalgia 1, delirium tremens 1, e])ilepsia 1 ; of the genital organs, 2 of gonorrha'a; of the
fibrous and muscular structures, 18 pernio, 18 acute and 23 chronic rheumatism — with 28 ab-
scesses and 3 ulcers; and under the head of "all other diseases" are included dcbilitas 5, ebrie-
tas 6, hemorrhois 2, hemeralopia (night-blindness) 1, morbi cutis 4, o])hthalmiu (generally
mild catarrhal conjunctivitis) 21, otitis 3, one tumor of uncertain character, one case of frozen
lower extremities, and 7 "morbi varii."
It sliould be observed that all the cases of intermittent fever (none of whicli were severe)
occurred in recruits arriving from Jefferson Barracks, and every case was satisfactorily traced
to a residence in other localities ; no instance is known of the disorder having originated in
the Territory ; and that, although the jiost is surrounded by influences (in addition to the very
imperfect police incidental to an unfinished fort) which appear in more southern latitudes to
favor the development of "malarial" disorders, no disease can be traced to a local cause. In
° The "tabular statement" is omitted. Its form cannot ccmvenienth/ ]m adapted to the passes of this volume, and it is
lielieved tliat the analysis of its contents, given in the report, answers every practical purpose. The statistics arc included
in the consolidated abstract for this region. — C.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 61
fact, throughout this region, a residence in the midst of swamps seems quite as salubrious as
one upon higher ground.
The three summers during which the post has been occupied have been marked by the preva-
lence of dysentery and diarrhcca — to a greater extent among civilians employed at the post,
and residents in the neighborhood, than among the troops. Although the sudden variations
of temperature, particularly the alternation of hot days with cold nights, might be considered
amply sufficient to account for this tendency, these diseases are said not to have prevailed ex-
tensively in the Territory previous to the year 1840 ; and their frequency of late years should
probably be referred to the epidemic influence which seems to have extended more or less over
the whole continent, rather than to any local causes.
^f the 41 cases of rheumatism reported, none were severely acute, nor obstinately chronic.
Nine-tenths of tlie whole might more properly have been reported as "sub-acute." No case
seemed to demand venesection ; most soon yielded to the internal use of opiates, and friction
with anodyne liniments.
The case of hemeralopia was successfully treated by 24 hours' seclusion in perfect darkness.
The annual ratio of cases treated, for three years, is 1,734 per thousand of mean strength ;
but deducting 31 intermittents and 44 mechanical injuries (both of which should obviously be
omitted in estimating the salubrity of the situation), this ratio is reduced to 1,354 per tliou-
sand.
But one death from disease — that of a feeble old soldier from pneumonia — has occurred in
the troops of the garrison since the occupation of the post (April 19, 1849), being an annual
ratio of about ^ per cent. The period of observations is 2)robably too short to authorize gene-
ral conclusions.
The inhabitants of this portion of Minnesota, as a class, are temperate, industrious, and
healthy. The population, though rapidly increasing by immigration, is sparse. The nearest
settlement to this place is at the small trading- post of Crow Wing, six or seven miles distant.
In a region chiefly settled within two years past, and among a population so scattered, the col-
lection of satisfactory vital statistics is almost impossible. No record has been kept of diseases
and deaths, which have been but few among adults, and the latter chiefly from dysentery. This
disease, during August and September, 1851, was almost universal among children for many
miles around this point, and fatal in a large proportion of cases. Notwithstanding the absence
of numerical bases, and of a sufficient number of facts upon which to found general deductions,
the opinion may be ventured, that the ratio of infantile viability will be found extremely low
throughout Minnesota. Four deaths of children have occurred at this post alone within three
years, or four times as many as among the troops, in a far less number ; and the mortality in
this class of the civil population generally, has probably been quite as large as here.
The Indian tribes in the vicinity of Fort Kiple}' are the Ojibways (Chippeways) and Winne-
bagoes. Though the post is situated within the territory assigned to the latter, an Indian of
this tribe is but rarely seen at the garrison. A physician in the employ of the government re-
sides among them, and a note has been addressed to him requesting any information which it
may be in his power to communicate concerning them. The statement, which he has kindly
promised, will be forwarded as soon as received.
The Ojibways live in scattered bands — none in this immediate vicinity, their agency being
about 150 miles north of the fort ; but having no physician residing near them, individuals
often apply here for medical aid. Their prevailing diseases appear to be bronchitis, dysentery,
and diarrhcca. • One case of tubercular phthisis has been seen. Gronorrhoea prevails to some
extent, but, so far as observed at this place, of a mild character. I have never seen nor heard
of a case of syphilis among them.
In November, 1850, a large number of these people (probably tliree or four thousand) were
assembled at their agency at Sandy Lake for payment. Many of them had come from a con-
siderable cKstance, and, not expecting a long detention, were but scantily provided against the
62 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
inclemency ol" the we;itlier, but do not appear to have suficred generally from disease before
their arrival at Sandy Lake, where they were obliged to wait for several weeks before receiving
their anunities. Tlie provisions there issued to them are credibly reported to have been of the
vilest descrii>tion, and iiisuilicient in quantity. The effect of such diet, combined with expo-
sure, soon showed itself in the prevalence of dysentery to a fearful extent ; and no less than
150 deaths are said to have occurred among them before they dispersed, which number is esti-
mated to have been increased to 300 on their way to their homes. Upon wliom the responsi-
l)ility of this infamous transaction rests, this is not tlie place to inquire, nor does the writer
know ; but there can be no donlit that the majority of tliese deaths were immediately caused by
the damaged provisions which hunger forced them to consume.
Cases of diarrhoea and dysentery are said to have been rare among the Ojibways previous to
the autumn of 1849, since which time they have been quite common.
If, notwithstanding its length, this report seem meagre and unsatisfactory, it will readily
be understood that a district so thinly settled is somewhat barren in a medical as well as a
literal sense. .
The following letter from Dr. David Day, respecting the vital statistics of the Winnebago
Indians, accompanied the foregoing report of Assistant yurgeon Head:
Winnebago Agency, July 5, 1852.
Sir: In answer to your request, I proceed to give you such information in regard to the vital
statistics, diseases, &c., of the Winnebagoes, as I have been enabled to collect during a resi-
dence of two years among them.
The present number of these Indians is 1,631, embracing about two-thirds of the tribe, the
remainder never having removed to this Territory. It is impossible to ascertain theii' rate of
diminution (if their numbers really do diminish), on account of tlieir migratory character, as
they are constantly receiving accessions from their old liomes in Wisconsin and Iowa, and as
constantly deserting their present location. It was the opinion of General Fletcher (late agent
for this tribe), whose observation is entitled to much respect, that within the last five years they
have not diminished, but increased in numbers ; and such is the opinion to which I am led by
the result of my own observation. Although this opinion — contrary to the one usually received
18 not at present capable of actual demonstration, it is rendered probable, by the fact of their
invariably marrying off their daughters immediately upon the accession of puberty, so that
none of the child-bearing period of the lives of their women is spent in maidenhooa. This,
allowing their fecundity to be the, same as that of other women, would make a considerable
difference in the amount of births, which is undoubtedly one of the chief reasons why their
numbers do not decrease.
Part of the Winnebagoes in this Territory reside at the agency, while the other portion
wander along the Mississippi, generally between the Watab and <Jrow rivers. Those making
the agency their home for the last three years and nine montlis have averaged about TOO in
number. The deatlis occurring among them since their removal hitlier — a space of 45 months
.-i-I have ascertained to be about 100; of which 70 were children, and 30 adults. The numljcr
of deaths was ascertained by counting the graves at the different places of interment near the
a'^ency ; which probably gives a nearly correct result, as they carefully preserve the marks of
their graves. The size of the graves enabled me to determine whether they were children or
adults. The 30 adults include all graves of medium size — probably all those of persons over
15 years of age.
It is thus seen that, out of a population of 700 Winnebagoes, there have died 2G.60 per annum,
or 3.808 per cent, per annum of the whole number. This gives one death in every 20.23 inhab-
itants. Of the entire mortality, 70 per cent, has been among children, and 30 i)er cent, among
adults.
By comparing these results with the vital statistics of other races, we find that the ratio of
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. G3
mortality is mucli higher among these Indians than in the white race, and considerahly above
that of the negro population of the United States; the rate of mortality in Great Britain being
1 death in 44 inhabitants; in Massachusetts, 1 in 35.30, (Eighth Report to the Legislature of
Massachusetts, relating to the Registry of Births, &c. ;) in Philadelphia, 1 in 43.12 of the
white population, and in the colored, 1 in 31.05, (Emerson on Vital Statistics of Philadelphia.)
In Baltimore, the average ratio of mortality is, in the white population, 1 in 46.40 ; in the free
colored, 1 in 34.17; while in the slave population, it amounts to 1 in 26.59, (Joynes: Stat, of
Mort. of Bait., Am. Jour. Med. Sci. : October, 1850.)
It will be observed that the rate of mortality among the Winnebagoes, and that of the slave
population of Baltimore, as given by Dr. Joynes, (which, I believe, does not materially difler
from that of the same population in other American cities,) are very nearly the same.
The average age at death cannot be ascertained with any certainty, as an Indian rarely
knows his age; in fact, a mother cannot often tell the ages of her children during their child-
hood. It will be seen, however^ that the proportion of mortality is much greater among
children than appears to exist elsewhere in childhood. In Great Britain, 35 in every 100 deaths
are under 10 years of age; in Philadelphia, 56 per cent, are under 21 years; and in Baltimore,
58 per cent. ; while among these Indians, those dying under 15 years amount to TO per cent, of
the total mortality.
I infer, from my observation among these people, that the average duration of life among
them is less than among the whites, or even the negro population of the United States. Cases
of extreme longevity, however, are not rare among them; one I remember, of a female, who,
from her appearance, and from what could be gathered of her history, must have much exceeded
the centenary period. I believe that at her death she was not less than 120 years old. Others
now living must be verging near to 100 years. This is in accordance with the fact, that that
class of a jiopulation having the shortest life in the aggregate, furnishes the most cases of
extreme longevity in proportion to its numbers.
From the above meagre facts, but more from my general observation, I draw the following
conclusions:
1. Tliat the ratio of mortality is greater among these Indians than among the white race,
and somewhat higher than in the worst class of the negro population of the United States.
2. That the average age at death is much less than in any other class of the American popu-
lation.
3. That in the early periods of life tlie mortality is far greater than in the corresponding
periods of any other race.
4. That the proportion of births among these Indians is greater than among a corresponding
number of any other people.
5. That this tribe has not diminished in numbers within the last three years; the excess of
births being equal to, or greater than, the excess of mortality.
Since my acquaintance (now some seven years) with the population in tlie northwest, of mixed
white and Indian blood, I have made the following observations, which I believe may be set
down as facts :
1. That a mixture of the white and Indian races produces an olTspring of less pliysical and
moral force, and of less viability than either of the original races.
2. That the offspring of this mixture of the two races is a hybrid, and incapable of propa-
gating itself beyond the third or fourth generation.
So long, however, as one of the parents is of pure white or Indian blood, the offspring may
be, to a certain degree, healthy, but is not generally vigorous ; but when both parents are of
mixed blood, the offspring is nearly always scrofulous, feebly developed, and generally dies be-
fore the accession of puberty. I have never known an individual, whose parents were hotli of
mixed blood, live to old age.
These Indians are subject to the same diseases as are the human race in general, while the
64 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS ANT) MORTALITY
causes of death among them are more frequent than among civilized people. These I propose
briefly to notice.
Tlie large percentage of deaths occurring in tlie early periods of life among these Indians, is
abundantly accounted for by the Spartan treatment to which they are subjected in infancy.
As soonas an infant is born, it is laid on a board, ])reviously covered with a few folds of blanket;
then, with a strip of cloth two or three inches wide, is as amply and securely bandaged from
head to foot as an Egyptian mummy, and then strapped to the board, care being always taken
to include tlie arms, which are extended ui)0ii the sides of the infant, and leaving nothing out
of the bandage but its head. In this straitened position they spend the greater part of the first
year of infantile life, remaining at times for weeks without being taken from the board. The
effect of this cradle (?) with the heavy woolen bandages, is to interfere with, if not entirely pre-
clude, the healthy functions of the skin. The excrements of the child's body collect, excoria-
ting the skin, and keeping up a constant irritation. The motions of the limbs — the only vol-
untary exercise an infant can have, and one so necessary to the development of its physical
powers — being entirely precluded, it soon becomes weak and enfeebled. But the most j)erni-
cious eifect of strapping their infants upon these boards is exerted upon the brain. Being
always laid upon their backs, with little or nothing between the hard board and the imperfectly
ossified head, the continued jjressure exerted by the weight of the head almost universally pro-
duces a displacement of the occipital bone inwards, causing trismus nascentium, paralysis, &c.,
and deranging the functions over which the cerebellum presides. They think it a mark of great
comeliness to have the head perfectly flattened behind; and tlie Indian mothers show much
anxiety in this respect.
It is wrong to suppose Indian children better capable of surviving less careful treatment in
infancy than are those of the whites. The former arc generally born with less vigorous consti-
tutions than the latter ; and in taking into consideration the numerous causes of disease and
death to which these forest children are subjected, the wonder is, how any survive — not why so
many die.
Among the diseases to which this tribe are especially subject, and one tending more than all
others to produce suffering and death, is scrofula, or, more properly, the strumous diathesis,
which maybe said to pervade the whole tribe. This disease shows itself among them in all its
usual form.s — enlargement and suppuration of the cervical and other glands, scrofulous diseases
of the joints, tubercular meningitis, &c., are its most usual forms among children; while
phthisis pulmonalis is frequent in the middle periods of life. I believe that, within the last few
years, the deaths resulting from this cause are equal to those from all others.
Pleurisy, pneumonia, and bronchitis, are common, and sometimes fatal. These diseases often
occur locally, induced, no doubt, by tubercular deposits. I have thought that these and other
inflammatory disorders yield more readily to the use of the lancet and other antiphlogistic
remedies, in the Indian constitution than in the white. The reparative powers appear to be
more powerful in the former; they certainly are so in the reparation of wounds. An Indian
will generally survive a greater bodily mutilation than a white man. This has been attributed
to the simplicity of their diet. It is, however, more probably the consequence of a lower degree
of organization, and less delicate sensibility of the nervous system.
Intemperance is a fruitful source of disease and suffering among these people. Unable to
control themselves in this respect, they indulge in frequent and excessive debauches, often
going a week without food, or other sustenance than the stimulus of ardent spirits. At such
times they are exposed to the inclemency of the weather, which, of course, is not \yithout its
effects; and many of them destroy the vigor of their constitutions in a single debauch, or excite
an acute attack of some latent disease, which might otherwise have remained dormant, or en-
tirely passed away.
Epidemic and contagious diseases, especially smallpox and measles, have heretofore been
more fatal among these Indians than among whites. The fatality of these diseases I think
s
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 65
altogether awing to the mismanagement of their patients, and not to any constitutional inabil-
ity to withstand them. During an attack, and especially during a paroxysm of the fever at-
tending these disor<lers, they expose themselves naked to tlie open air, and lie during the night
in a draught, or, more frequently, plunge into cold water. The reaction after these cold baths
usually proves too powerful, and they generally sink. The last occurrence of smallpox among
them was in the summer of 1849, when the deaths from it were not more than four or five, and
the disease spread but little. They are now all protected by vaccination, and nearly all have
had the measles.
The diseases incident to tlie female organs of generation are extremely common, especially
prolapsus uteri and leucorrhcea. The former of these complaints, amounting in many instances,
to complete procidentia, is so frequent, that a majority of all the women who have borne chil-
dren are aflected with it. Nor is this surprising, when the ill after-treatment to which their
parturient females are subjected is taken into consideration. They never maintain the recum-
bent position an hour after delivery, and generally return within a day or two to the labors of
the corn-field, or to the carrying of heavy burdens, and performing all the laborious duties
usually assigned to the "squaw." An Indian woman can no more violate, with impunity, the
obvious hygienic treatment necessary in the parturient state, than can a white woman.
The process of jiarturition, among Indian women, does not differ in any material respect from
the same process in otlicrs; except, perhaps, in being somewhat sliorter, and attended with less
suffering, which I believe to be owing rather to a low degree of nervous sensibility, than to
any material physical difference.
It is generally supposed that a large proportion of this tribe are affected with a syphilitic
taint. Such, however, is not the result of my observation among them. I saw two cases in the
autumn of 1850 — a man and his wife, who were suffering under, and who finally died from,
genuine .syphilis, combined with scrofula. Many of the superficial glands had enlarged and
suppurated, and then, becoming inoculated with the syphilitic virus, were converted into chan-
cres, with indurated sides and bases, discharging from their surfaces a large quantity of watery
fluid. I do not know of a single case of secondary or tertiary syphilis in the whole tribe.
The variety of chancre generally existing among them is of a very mild character, always
yielding to mild escharotics.
Gonorrhcea is common among these Indians, and generally of a virulent character, resisting
all ordinary means of treatment. I have never had among them any success with the abortive
treatment, recommended by Ricord and Acton. The effect of the injections I have found to be
to aggravate the disorder. Buboes are a frequent accompaniment of the disease, and often pro-
ceed to suppuration.
The first winter after the removal of the Winnebagoes to this country (that of 1 848-' 49) was
one of unusual severity. The Indians were poorly clad, and miserably fed ; their diet being salt
pork and flour, and not nearly enough of that. They soon became feeble from want of food ; in
consequence of which, and the severity of the weather, they lay in their wigwams, taking no
exercise. This produced scurvy pretty generally among them; but few, if any, died of the
disease. The only thing remarkable about it, I believe, was the rapidity with which it dis-
appeared when its causes were removed ; since which, it has not returned. I do not think the
scorbutic tendency among them nearly so great as among whites ; their powers of digestion
and assimilation (when they have anything to digest or assimilate) certainly being better than
those of almost any other people. The white population of the place, who were much better
fed, clothed^ and lodged than the Indians^ suffered almost equally with them.
From the gluttonous habits of these Indians, one would suppose a j)riori that diseases of the
prim;e vite would be common among them; such, however, is not the case. They enjoy a re-
markable exemption from tlie usual affections of the alimentary canal.
DAVID DAY.
J. FiiAziER Head, Assistant Surgeon U. S. A., Fort Bipley.
s. 96 9
6G REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
MEDICAL TOPOGRArnY AND DISEASES OF FORT RIDGELY.
By Assistant Siirgeon Alex. H. Hassoii : 1S5G.
Tliis post was established in the spring of 1853. It is in or near latitude 44° 30' north, and
lonjiitudo 17° 45' west of Washington ; hut no ohsorvations liavo heen made on the spot to de-
termine its i)Osition exactly, nor have the distances to neiglihoring ])oints heen accurately ascer-
tained. It is situated in an angle formed hy the junction of a small stream, called Rock river,
witli the Minnesota, and about half a mile i'rom the left bank of the latter, upon the bluffs,
by which its bottom is bounded. On the ordinary maps, its site would best be indicated by a
point on the Minnesota, midway, or nearly so, between the Redwood and Waraju or Cotton-
wood rivers. By the usual land route, it is said to be ninety miles from Fort Snelling; though
by the river, which is exceedingly crooked, this distance is probably doubled.
The valleys of Rock river and the Minnesota are sunk abruptly beneath the level of the sur-
rounding country. The summits of the steep bluffs that bound them are continuous with the
adjoining prairies, and at this place are elevated one hundred feet or more above the level of
the rivers.
Rock river, which is a mere creek, has its source five miles back on the prairie, and at the
post its valley attains the width of about a quarter of a mile. It is a clear-water stream, run-
ning over beds of sand and gravel, and seldom acquires a greater width than four or five yards,
or a depth exceeding two feet.
The Minnesota rises in Big Stone lake, about 150 miles above this place. Its valley in the
vicinity of the post is from one to three miles in width, and equally divided between woodland
and prairie. Through this bottom the river, which is upwards of sixty yards wide, winds a
very tortuous course, and its current, moving sluggishly over a muddy bottom, is somewhat
yellow and turbid. It is generally confined within its present banks, but in the spring of 1853
it overflowed widely the adjacent bottom. At low water it may be forded in several places
near the post.. The principal obstructions to navigation below this point are two rapids — one
near the Mankato, or Blue Earth river, in the big bend of the Minnesota; and the other, called
the Little rapids, farther down the river, and about thirty miles from its mouth. During high
water in the spring, medium-sized steamers can make a few trips as far up as the Mankato
rapids, and occasionally above them ; but they are soon confined to the river below the Little
rapids, whence small stern-wheel boats may run for a few months longer, even to points above
the post. Competent persons consider that, by a comparatively small expenditure of money at
the rapids, and one or two other points along the river, it might be made navigable for boats,
of tlie average LTpper Mississippi size, as far up as Patterson's rapids, about forty miles above
the post. In ordinary seasons, there is a portage of probably two miles between Big Stone Lake
and Lake Travers, which divides the waters of the Minnesota from those that flow into the Red
river of the North ; and, indeed, in some seasons of very high water, boats have passed from
one lake into the other without making any portage at all.
The country surrounding the post is for many miles a gently rolling prairie, occasionally
interrupted by a small patch or thin line of timber indicative of a lake or water-course. There
is no elevation in the vicinity that can properly be called a hill, and few, if any, in the whole
Territory. Running streams are comparatively few, and the extensive plains, being inade-
quately drained, abound in lakes, ponds, and marshes ; but there is no body of water suffi-
ciently large to exercise any modifying influence on the climate. Some of these lakes are very
beautiful, having an area of one or more square miles, firm banks fringed with timber, pebbly
bottoms, and clear waters abounding with fish. The smaller bodies of water are usually
marshy, and devoid of timber. In rainy weather, the water collects in low spots on the prairies,
forming extensive sloughs, which render the roads almost impassable. Clear cool springs are
frequently met with in the ravines that break through the line of bluffs along the river; and,
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION, 67
iu many places on the prairie, good water has been obtained by digging ten or twelve feet
through the subsoil of sand and gravel, into a bed of sandy blue clay beneath.
Tlie nearest large body of timber is the " Big Woods," about forty miles distant to the south
and east. The post is supplied with wood from the river-bottom in its vicinity, portions of
which are very well covered. It consists principall}^ of different species of oak, soft and sugar
maple, ash, elm, hickory, butternut, hackberry, bass, cottonwood, and white poplar. No pine
is found on the Minnesota, though common on the Mississippi above the falls.
A species of wild plum, the small wild grape, thornapple, and hop, abound in the bottom;
and the wild rice in tlie marshes, wild strawberries, gooseberries, raspberries, currants, and
hazel-nuts, may be gathered in season, though generally in but small quantities. Early summer
brings a profusion and variety of wild flowers, some of rare and delicate beauty. The wild rose
is particularly common, and its fragrance floats in every dell.
Bones of the buffalo are sometimes found bleaching upon the surrounding prairies ; but it is
now nine years since these animals visited this section of country, and they are rarely seen
nearer than a hundred miles to the northwest. The deer are few in this immediate neighbor-
hood, on account of the comj^aratively small quantity of timber ; but in the "Big Woods" and
in the " Blue Earth" river country, south and east of us, they are still abundant. The common
fox, prairie-wolf, and gopher are found on the prairie, and the coon and red squirrel in the
timber. Large black wolves have been seen in the " Big Woods," and are said occasionally to
have carried off young i^igs. Skunks, minks, and muskrats are numerous, and otter are
not uncommon. The beaver, though now rare, is still taken occasionally at points on the river
above.
The principal birds seen in this vicinity are the wild goose, teal and mallard duck, common
grouse, rough grouse or pheasant, curlew, plover, snijie, woodcock, wild pigeon, and blackbird;
this last is an exceedingly numerous sj^ecies, and very destructive to corn crops.
Bass, pike, pickerel, catfish, pouts, and hard-shell turtles abound in the lakes and rivers.
Two harmless species of snake have been seen at the post. One averages about two feet and
a half in length, and has longitudinal green stripes upon its back; it is exceedingly numer-
ous, and has been frequently found in the quarters. The other is about five feet long, and its
back is crossed transversely with bands of black spots. No venomous reptiles have been seen
here, but rattle-snakes are said to be abundant in the country bordering on the Missouri.
From June until the last of September the mosquitoes are exceedingly numerous and annoy-
ing, and last season the same was true of the Jleas also.
The subsoil is a yellow sand, of various degrees of fineness. Near its upper surface lies a
seam of gravel and small boulders, and beneath it a bed of blue clay, of which bricks of ordi-
nary quality have been made. The face of the bluffs bounding the river-bottom is thickly
strewn with granite boulders, some of them of a large size ; but a few rods back upon the
prairie, stones are rarely found on the surface. The nearest outcrop of solid rock is in Rock-
river bottom, near the base of a steep bluff that walls in the stream, and at a depth of about
seventy-five feet below the level of the adjacent prairie. It is a soft red sandstone, and prob-
ably rests directly on the granite, which shows itself in many places along the river.
Our commissary storehouse and company quarters are built of granite, obtained about two
miles up the river, where the bluffs on the opposite side come down to the water's edge. In
various places along the bottom, on this side of the river, knobs of granite rise up like barren
islands amid the surrounding green and level prairie. Pieces of coal have been picked up at
various jilaces below, but nothing like a bed of that mineral has been discovered. Limestone
has not yet been found nearer the post than the mouth of the Waraju or Cottonwood river,
though it is abundant below that point. The means at hand were too rude for making an exact
or extended analysis of the superficial soil, and none was attempted. It is rich in organic
matter, black, loose, and sandy; and being, therefore, warm and ''lively," is well adapted to
the short growing season of the country. Its depth on the prairie is about one toot, but in
68 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
portions of the bottom it is upwards of two. Its specific gravity was found to be 2.061. Three
hundred grains, thoroughly dried over a spirit-Uvmp, and then exposed to the air for twenty-lour
hours, gained four grains and a half. By agitating a portion ^yith warm water, and decanting,
it separated into three parts of fine sand to one of finely-divided aluminous vegetable and other
matters. Its loss of weight in burning was more than one-tenth of the whole. One liundred
grains contain about four grains of carbonate of lime.
An abundant crop of the ordinary roots, and of cabbages, cauliflowers, peas, beans, squashes,
pumpkins, and cucumbers, may generally be relied on. The Lima beans, musk-melons, canta-
loupes, water-melons, and tomatoes, planted in the post gardens last year, were overtaken by
the frost, and but few attained perfection. This was owing to the late cold weather and drought
in the spring, by which their progress was retarded. The preceding year was not so unfavor-
able, and the cultivation of these vegetables was more successful. Good crops of corn and oats
have been made in the surrounding country, and experimental sowings of sjjring and winter
wheat, rye, and buckwheat, have turned out favorably. No advantage is derived from plant-
ing in the open ground earlier than the middle of May. This section of country is yet too new
to afford any satisfactory data upon the cultivation of fruit-trees.
The Minnesota-river country was purchased by the general government from bands of tlie
Sioux or Dacota Indians in the year 1851. These bands are still permitted to occupy a tract
of the country above the fort, and only the lands below have as yet been thrown open to white
settlement. Already most of the desirable claims along the river — that is, those combining
the advantages of timber, prairie, and water — are occupied by squatters ; and, although none
of this land has yet been sold by government, some tracts for farming purposes have already
changed hands at ten dollars and upwards per acre, on the security of quit-claim deeds. Seve-
ral town sites have been laid out along the river, and some of these are rapidly becoming places
of considerable business. There are many Germans, Danes, and Norwegians among the set-
tlers ; but the population consists principally of Americans from the northern and northwestern
States, in accordance with the usual law of emigration, by which our new States are settled by
immigrants from the older ones lying in the same parallels of latitude. Thus we trace the
pedigree of Texas back through the States bordering on the Gulf, to Georgia; that of Arkansas,
to Tennessee and North Carolina; of Missouri, to Kentucky and Virginia ; and of the west and
northwest, to the middle and New England States. The Indians living in this vicinity are
bands of Dacotas, or Sioux, a numerous nation that roams the country to the west and north-
west as far as the Rocky Mountains. Prior to 1837 these bands occupied the country extend-
ing from a point on the Mississippi below Lake Peinn, up the Minnesota to Big Stone lake ;
but, having sold it by treaties to the general government, they are now restricted to a reserved
portion, whose lower boundary is the post. Upon this tract the Indian. Department has estab-
lished an agency, and, in compliance with the treaty, have broken up land at several points,
and maintain farmers, blacksmiths, and two physicians, for the benefit of the Indians.
The number of individuals of all the bands who are paid annuities by the government is be-
tween six and seven thousand.
Those belonging to the "lower bands," besides receiving annuities in common with the rest,
by virtue of the treaty of 1851, are also paid an additional amount in accordance with the
treaty of 1837, by which they disposed of lands lying on the Mississippi river. The annual
amount jiaid to these, exclusive of the specific sums exjjended by the agent for agricultural and
other purposes, is about twenty dollars per head in cash, and five dollars per head in provi-
sions ; besides some guns, ammunition, and blankets, which are distributed among, the princi-
pal men and heads of families. The members of the other bands are paid about one-half these
amounts. As the sum annually distributed is fixed by treaty, of course the amount paid each
individual varies yearly with the census.
Besides these annuities, they depend for subsistence on hunting, fishing, the cultivation of a
little corn, and on the natural products of the country — the wild rice, plums, maple sugar.
AMONO THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 69
&c., in their season. The bands which have long resided about the head-waters of the Minne-
sota hunt the buifalo ; but those which have been moved up from below, seldom venture so
far out upon the plains, and have been in the habit of frequenting the " Big Woods" and the
timber country south and east of us, where the deer are still abundant. This, however, is in
violation of their treaties, and the rapid settlement of the country must soon deprive them of
those hunting-grounds. Almost every animal the Indian meets contributes to his subsistence,
and the dogs that throng his wigwam constitute a favorite material of his choicest feasts. The
musk-rat, which is very abundant in this country, supplies a large proportion of his winter
food. These are taken by cautiously approaching their houses on the margins of the ponds,
and thrusting an iron-pointed stick through the earthen walls ; thus impaling the animals
within, before they can escape through their subterranean passages. Persons who have par-
taken of this dish, speak of it as being by no means ill-flavored or unpalatable.
These Indians obtain, also, many sujiplies from the white traders, wlio furnish them with
goods in exchange for their peltries and annuities. They raise some corn every season on the
land prepared for them by the Indian Department, the only part of the work performed by
themselves being that of planting and gathering tlie crops ; and this, like all else tliat can be
properly called work, is done entirely by the squaws, their lords and masters by no means sub-
scribing to the doctrine of the "dignity of labor."
Convenient to their cornfields are bark houses, in which they live during farming operations ;
but after the crop is gathered and buried in the earth, they roam the country in search of game,
living in their moveable lodges or teepees. These are made of cotton cloth or buffalo skins
stretched upon poles.
Tlieir costume consists of a cotton or woolen shirt ; leggings for the men, and petticoats for
the women, of the same materials : moccasins ; and a blanket, which envelops the form, and
hangs from the head or shoulders.
As in all primitive communities, where tlie means of subsistence are precarious, and the
danger from enemies constant, the men's share of duty consists only in hunting and war, and
much of their time is spent in idleness. Labor devolves entirely upon their squaws, and for
this reason the married women are generally superior to the men in strength, and inferior in
grace -of motion and symmetry of form. Among the young unmarried females, however, indi-
viduals may be met, who, with the advantages of cleanliness and becoming dress, would possess
very fair pretensions to beauty. Both sexes are remarkable for the small size of their hands
and feet, but the latter are flat, and the instep low. The men are rather above the average
height of white men, and are generally possessed of great endurance and bodily activity. A
young warrior was confined in an upper room of the barracks, under constant charge of a senti-
nel. For some days he feigned to be extremely ill ; but suddenly at midnight he sprang through
the upper sash of a window, alighted on hard ground about twenty-five feet below, and imme-
diately escajjcd into the surrounding darkness. About three months afterwards, I saw him at
the house of a half-breed near the post, where be had just returned from a foray against the
Pawnees ; and, from curiosity, I made an examination of his person, which confirmed his own
statement that he had received no injury.
It is rare for a man to have more than three wives, and a widow with cliildren is a prize
much sought after ; for as every individual is entitled to an annuity, these Indians measure their
wealth by the size of their families. When a man desires any particular woman for wife, he
usually proceeds for Several nights to the vicinity of her wigwam, and entertains her with a
monotonous serenade on a rude pipe. After this preliminary courtship, he seeks the consent of
her parents by the offering of presents, and, if these be accepted, receives his wife in return.
The vari<ius bands of this luimerous nation are bound together by no political organization,
or other tie, save that of community of language and race. Each band seems to be an inde-
pendent body, having its own chief and oi-ators : but the organization is exceedingly loose, and
it is not uncommon for individuals to leave one band lor another. Their chiefship is nominally
70 REPORT ON TUE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
hereditary ; but this rule must frequently be broken, where power and influence depend so mucli
upon purely personal qualifications. In fact, the acknowledged chief often plays but a secondary
part in his baud to some daring warrior, eloquent orator, or sagacious "medicine-mau." The
Dacota's law is that of retaliation, and depends for its execution solely upon the personal abili-
ties of the party injured and the devotion of his friends. Quarrels, which may tlius spread, and
continue indefinitely, are generally, however, brought to a conclusion by pcace-olferings from
the weaker to the stronger party, and often by the mutual interchange of presents. Among
those bands which receive annuities, the Indian agent is enabled to adjust many disputes,
especially concerning property, as the funds accruing to eacli individual uuist i)ass through his
hands.
The Sioux have been engaged in an hereditary warfare with the Chippeways from time imme-
morial, and are taught from their earliest infancy to regard them as mortal loes. Tliey are
under the constant necessity of guarding against surprise by the war parties of their enemies
that prowl through their country, and may at any moment be lurking in ambush, watcliing an
opportunity to rusli upon some party weaker than themselves, or an unprotected camp of women
and children, and rca}) a rich reward of scalps — the dearly-prized tokens of the warrior's prow-
ess. In the summer of 1854, within a few hundred yards of this post, a war party of eight
Chippeways rushed from ambush upon three Sioux, one of whom was killed, and the others
escaped to the post. The Sioux warriors are not slow in retaliation ; and a short time after the
above occurrence, a party of them fell in with a camp of Chippeways, mostly women and ciiil-
dren, and murdered about thirty of their number.
That "the essence of war is violence" is truly the Indian's maxim, and the chivalrous senti-
ments of civilized warfare are to him but foolishness. His principle is to exterminate the whole
race of his enemies, or, as his sign forcibly expresses it, to wipe them out ; and neither old nor
young, women nor children, are exempt from his fury. Sometimes a woman or cliild is taken
prisoner, and then their lives are at the entire disposal of their captors. About a year ago, a
Chippeway girl was taken prisoner by a Sioux warrior ; but not proving as completely submis-
sive as her master thouglit desirable, he subjected her to much harsh treatment. Her suff'er-
ings excited the sympathy of a half-breed trader, who carried her off clandestinely, and brought
her to this post, whence she was sent to her own country. Her Sioux master has been annoyed
ever since by the upbraidings of his band, and his own regrets, at his folly in sparing a Chip-
peway to become the mother of warriors that will battle against his race.
In the Indian's creed, cunning is the better part of valor; and he seeks his foe upon the
same principle that he liunts his game. To creep stealthily upon his enemies when sleeping, to
attack them always at their disadvantage, to evade their superior war parties, and suddenly
burst upon an unprotected camp of their women and children, constitute with him the highest
claims to a warrior's honors. Hostile meetings of war parties, open and premeditated on both
sides, are therefore exceedingly rare ; and their warfare is but a series of surprises and butclieries.
Upon the same principle, successful horse-stealing ranks high in the scale of military honor ;
and it is not uncommon for parties of three or four, and sometimes for a single individual, to
penetrate on foot into the enemy's country, lurk about liis camp until an opportunity offers,
which is usually at night, and, having stealthily crawled to the nearest horses, suddenly to
mount and gallop away in the direction of their distant home. Almost every one who has
campaigned upon the western plains can bear testimony to their expertness in this honorable
accomplishment. Judged by the standard of civilized life, which exalts the open combat above
the secret blow, the Indian might be pronounced deficient in true personal courage ; but this
difterence is probably one of education alone, and liis stoical fortitude under jjhysical suffering
is proverbial.
Their religious creed seems to consist principally in the notion that there are spirits per-
vading every object in tlie universe, determining the fortunes of men, and the operations of
nature ; and that these spiritual essences bear to each other, and to the Great Spirit wlio presides
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 71
over them all, some close and mysterious relationship. They recognize but faintly the idea of
future punishment ; and their notions of tlie next world are, for the most part, hut exaggerated
conceptions of the Indian's pleasure in this. Their word, inadequately rendered "medicine,"
is vaguely applied to every incomprehensible, mysterious, and therefore, in their belief, spiritual
influence. Dr. Daniels, the physician who resides among them, tells me they have an almost
idolatrous reverence for opium and chloroform, the "great medicines" that bring repose and
insensibility to pain. The Doctor and myself having had occasion to perform several opera-
tions, in which we used chloroform, the fame of this medicine soon spread among the neigh-
boring Indians ; and one of their young men, who had been disappointed in a love-suit, came
to Dr. D. and earnestly hesouglit him for a few drops of the mysterious liquid, for which he
would willingly have exchanged his horse. He had no desire to administer it, but simply to
have it in his possession, that^ by conjurations, he might secure the favor of the powerful spirit
to which he attributed its mysterious influence.
As in all primitive communities, the functions of priest and physician are based alike upon
the supernatural, and constitute a single profession, of which the sages, or " medicine-men,"
are the exponents. The candidates for the honors of this fraternity are initiated within the
medicine lodge, from which laymen are excluded. Women are sometimes admitted to mem-
bership. The functions of these "medicine" men or women are to appease angry spirits, to
invoke their favor upon enterprises of war or hunting, to tell the time when these may be
favorably undertaken, to exorcise diseases or evil spirits, and to perform various other myste-
rious offices. Their various ceremonies consist principally in feasting, singing, dancing,
haranguing, and grotesque gesticulation, accompanied with the beating of skins stretched
upon frames, and the rattling of gourds filled with pebbles. When a man of note dies, it is
customary for his friends, as soon as they have the means, to give a grand "medicine" feast
to his shade ; and liis horses, guns, blankets, and otlier effects, are held sacred until that occa-
sion, when they are distributed among his friends and relatives. The custom is seldom observed
among these bands, of burying the dead person's effects with the body, or of leaving them upon
the grave; long proximity to the whites having probably changed their practice in this respect.
Besides their medicine feasts and dances, there are many others common to the whole band, as
the "thunder dance," "buffalo dance," "scalp dance," and "dance and feast of the virgins."
The scalp dance is performed around an enemy's scalp stretched upon a frame. It may be
danced an indefinite number of times within three months after the capture of the scalp, which
must be buried at the expiration of that period. At the feast and dance of the virgins, only
the chaste of both sexes are allowed to participate; and should any intrude, who can be proved
unworthy, they may be dragged in disgrace from the assembly. The rude drum, rattle, and
primitive i)ipe, used by the lovers in their serenades, are their only instruments of music.
Their dancing is little more than a succession of uniform shuffles, and tlieir singing of monotonous
jerking sounds.
In cases of sickness, these Indians sometimes resort to the external and internal use of various
herbs, scarifications of the surface, and the vapor-bath. The latter is administered by setting
up a small frame of twigs, covered in closely with blankets, within which the patient seats
himself, and pours water upon heated stones. Theit principal reliance, however, in severe
cases, is placed upon the conjurations of the " medicine-men." These proceed to the patient's
lodge, usually at night, where they chant, beat their rude drums, rattle their gourds, and per-
form other magical rites. At a given signal, they discharge their guns through the entrance
of the lodge at the disease, or evil sjiirit, as it passes out from the body of the patient. But,
usually, it returns again and again; and night after night it must be "drummed out," until it
is entirely banished, or, proving too strong for its opponents, it kills its victim.
Very old persons are seldom seen among them ; and there is no doubt that a very large
number of children fall victims to the "hardening iirocesses" to which they are imavoidably
subjected, who, in civilized life, woxild have been reared to useful maturity.
72 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
The diseases atteiulaiit upon privation and exposure are the most common amonu; tiiem, as
phthisis, scrofulous affections, rheumatism, dysentery, diseases of tlie ear and of tlie eye.
These last are remarkahly frequent among Indians generally, owing to their exposure to the
glare of sun and snow, the cold winds of the prairies, and the smoky atmosphere of their
wigwams. Tlieir systems seem to possess comparatively hut little irritahility, or tendency to
hif'h •'•rades of inflammation, and wounds usuallv heal witli remarkable tacilitv. The process
of parturition rarely jjroves dillicult, or interrupts the usual avocations of the woman more than
a few hours.
From their long intercourse with the whites, the bands inhabiting this vicinity have become
entirely dependent on them for almost every article of daily and indispensable use, as clothing,
cotton for their teepees, hunting and fishing apparatus, knives and hatchets, cooking utensils,
even the paint that adorns their faces, and the instruments that fashion their pipes. Yet they
can scarcely be said to have made any progress in civilization, or to evince any desire of.
relinquishing their vagrant habits and precarious means of subsistence for fixed habitations and
systematic labor. When a party of them, on a late occasion, was laying before the agent their
numerous wants, he told them that if they would work upon the farm like the white men whom
he had hired, they would never want for food, and would severally receive as much mo'ney every
month as their annuities amounted to. "The Great Spirit," said an Indian warrior, in reply,
"made the squaw, tlie negro, and the white man for work; but us, he made for warriors."
It is rare to find a full-blooded Sioux wlio understands more than a few words of English, or
will make use even of those; and their interpreters are always half-breeds or white men.
If civilization has made so little progress, Cliristianity may be said to have made none.
There have been one or more missionary establishments among these Indians for the last twenty
years. At the mission on the Yellow Medicine river, there is preaching every Sunday in the
English and Dacota languages, and a day-school, in which Indians may be taught to read the
Bible in tlieir native tongue. But besides the white and half-breed employees of the Indian
Department, and their families, there are few or no attendants, either at school or meeting.
The Indians themselves seem perfectly indifierent, and practically ignore the establishment.
Meteorology. — The earliest frosts recorded were on September 20th, 1853, October 4th,
1854, and September 27th, 1855; the latest on May 11th, 1854, and May 8th, 1855. The
Minnesota river, at the post, was closed with ice November 20th, 1854, and opened on the 6th
of the ensuing April. The young grass was seen in the bottom on the 11th, and a prairie
flower on the 15th of April, 1855. Heavy thunder-storms are not uncommon in the summer,
and several severe hail-storms are recorded. Heavy dews and fogs at night, especially over the
river-valley, are frequent in the months of August and September. The autumn weather is the
most pleasant of the year, and much of it has that soft mellow haziness characteristic of Indian
summer. The winter weather is often very rigorous ; this severity depending on the combined
influence of low temperature and the strong northwest winds which prevail at this season, and
sweep for hundreds of miles over an almost imbroken prairie. These winds render travelling
over the prairies in the winter season not only difficult, but at times dangerous, by forming
extensive snow-drifts, rapidly obliterating the roads, and fearfully augmenting the dejiressing
influence of cold upon the system. On one occasion, during the present winter, when the mer-
cury was six degrees below zero, the atmosphere was so thick with drifting clouds of snow,
borne onward by a furious northwest wind, that at three o'clock in the afternoon a house could
not be seen at the distance of forty yards ; and it was almost impossible to keep one's eyes ojien,
even for a single moment, in the face of the storm. On such occasions, the traveller whose
course is against the wind renounces all thoughts of advancing, and, if caught by the storm
upon the prairie, quickly retraces his steps to the nearest shelter. It is from exj^osure to these
winds, wliicli so rapidly conduct the heat from the system, that severe frost-bites usually occur;
while at other times, though the mercury indicates a much greater degree of cold, if the atmo-
sphere be calm, these accidents are comparatively rare. The great variation between the sum-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
73
mcr and winter temperature of this po.st gives to its climate that excessive character peculiar to
interior localities remote from the modifying influence of large bodies of water. Fort Howard,
on Green bay, is but a few minutes, and Astoria, on the Pacific, is about a degree and a half
north of Fort Ridgely ; and subjoined is a comparative view of some of the climate statistics of
these three posts. The statistics also of some Atlantic post, situated in nearly the same lati-
tude, would be an interesting addition, but the requisite data are not at hand. Tlie amount of
rain given for Astoria, is for eleven months only ; the data from which it was obtained being
incomplete. The means for Fort Ridgely are calculated from the observations for two years,
ending December 31, 1855.
Stations.
Annual
mean.
Spring
mean.
Summer
mean.
Autumn
mean.
Winter
mean.
Maximum
temperature.
Minimum
temperature.
Rain and
melted snow
in inches.
45.54
44.33
5.3.26
48.75
43.66
5180
70.89
67.71
61 63
48.46
45 45
55.48
14 03
20.53
44.15
98
99
94
—24
—30
22
31 55
Fort Howard
Astoria
35.74
60.58
In the accompanying tabular statement,* eighty-two cases oi: intermittent and remittent are re-
ported; yet even this number, though comparatively small, gives an exaggerated idea of the
prevalence of miasmatic disease at the post. In many instances, the same individual has been
reported sick of intermittent on two, and even three and four separate occasions ; so that the whole
number of persons who have been ill of this disease will not amount to one-half the number of re-
ported cases. And of these individuals, more than one-half suffered from the disease previously
to coming here, and after any unusual exposure were liable to have a slight attack, which was
always registered as a distinct case of intermittent. But, after making this allowance, even
tlic small number remaining will hardly be a fair criterion of the amount of miasmatic disease
which originated at the post, and for the following reasons : During a great portion of the time,
the hospital accommodations were so inadequate, that many men on the sick-report were allowed
to rcuiiiin in quarters with their companies; and, in these cases, the diagnosis had frequently
to depend, in a great measure, on the patient's own statements, which, among soldiers, is, for
obvious reasons, not always reliable ; and, as a great majority of the cases, both of remittent
and intermittent, were returned to duty within four days after reporting sick, it is probable
that some of them were attributable ratlier to some transient source of irritation than to mias-
malic influence.
Upon the whole, then, I may say that I have never seen a single case of grave or protracted
miasmatic fever at the post, almost every one being of that grade of mildness that "scarcely
confines the jjatient, or requires the intervention of medicine." (Wood's Practice, art. Remit-
tent.)
Upon the foregoing report, no case of idiopathic continued fever is recorded ; but, from the
commencement of the present year up to this date, (February, 1850,) as many as twelve have oc-
enrroil. Tliougii some of these cases continued for three weeks before convalesence fairly com-
menced, yet none of them were at any time regarded as particularly grave; the patients were
never ch_^lirious, and were always altie to get out of lied, unassisted, to attend to the calls of na-
ture. Tlic present winter has been colder than any I have known at the post, and to economize
fuel lias been with us an imperative necessity; hence, the men have been unusually crowded,
and ventilation and personal chanliness have doubtless received less attentiiui tlian in more
favorable weather. To these causes, and the depressing influence of the severe cold, these
fever cases seem to be attributable.
? The talik- liore referred to by "r- H:is.son is omitted, for tlie reason that its form eannot oouvcniently be adapted to
tlie pa^'osof tliis volunio ; and, also, becar.fe it is believed that the aualysis in the text is sullicii-ntly minute for practical
piiipuses. — C.
S. 96-
-10
74 KEPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
One case of sporadic cholera was reported on the 30th of last August. Tlie jiatieiit liad eaten
a large quantity of wild plums just before going to lied, and was taken ill the same night.
When I saw him, his ])ul.sc was extremely feehle, his features pinched, skin cold, nails blue, and
voice faint; he had violent cramps, vomiting, copious rice-n-afer discharges, and, in fact, the
usual symptoms of collapse in epidemic cholera. Tlie remedies iised were opium, canqthor,
brandy, and mustard, as usual ; but the principal reliance was jilaced on calomel, of which I
administered about sixty grains within the first half-hour after seeing liim. No salivation or
other unpleasant symptoms resulted, and in five days the soldier was returned to duty. This
is the only case of cholera which I have seen at the post. Cases of diarrluca a])pear to have been
most frequent during the quarters ending December, 1854, and Septeml)er, 1855. Many of
these are attributable to the wild plums, which are eaten freely in the months of September and
October. Yet twenty-one cases are also reported for the quarter ending March, 1855 ; but, as
tlie duty during this quarter was sometimes very severe, and, as before stated, the men who re-
ported sick could not always be subjected to observation in hosjiital, I have no doubt that
during that period an unusual number of feigned cases were reported And if the soldier can-
not be placed under the strict surveillance of the medical officer, there is no disease he will more
readily feign than diarrhoea.
Tlie case oi' thronic hepatitis reported, was that of a soldier who had been previously sick of
miasmatic fever in Florida and Mexico. The generally light character of the diseases of the
"respiratorij system" can be seen by a glance at the table, and the cases of pnenmonia and pleu-
ritis, with one or two exceptions, were comparatively mild. The two desiths from phthisis were
of soldiers who came here in October, and died in the ensuing March; and I have little doubt
that tubercles existed before their arrival at the post. In the other reported case, no great
amount of disease was developed; urgent symptoms were palliated, and the patient returned to
duty.
The death from epilepsy was in consequence of apoplectic congestion occurring during a par-
oxysm. The patient was very intemperate, and had been subject to the disease for many years.
In one case of frost-bite, it was necessary to amputate the foot ; the rest terminated without
any mutilation.
But few cases of severe rAe?<ma^ic disease were seen, and some reported acute might more
properly have been classified as sub-acute rheumatism. Rheumatic affections are favorites with
malingerers, and it is not imjjrobable that, in the course of two years and a half, some feigned
cases have been reported.
" Abscess a.r\i\ idcers" constitute a large item in the report, for furunculus is a very common
disease among soldiers, particularly recruits. Onychia find pai-onj/chia were almost exclusively
confined to the cooks.
One hundred and sixty-two cases of "woimds and injuries" are reported, most of which oc-
curred to men engaged in building operations, which have been going on since the establish-
ment of the post.
The cases of '■^ophthalmia" were generally mild, and readily subdued by the ordinary treat-
ment.
The cases registered as " morbi varii," presented no characteristic sufficient to warrant a
definite diagnosis. They were borne on the sick-report but a day or two, and in many of them,
doubtless, there was nothing at all the matter.
The operations performed during the period specified were : one amputation of the thigh, in
a case of gun-shot wound of the knee-joint; urethrotomy once, in a case of lacerated urethra
from external injury; and Chopart's operation once, in a case of frost-bite. These were per-
formed on soldiers, but I had occasion also to amputate both the legs of a female patient up-
wards of sixty years of age, whose feet had been frozen during an exposure of three days and
ni"-hts upon the prairie in a snow-storm. All the operations resulted favorably.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 75
Chloroform was administered in every case, excepting that of urethrotomy. On this occa-
Ri(m there was none on liand, and the local application of ice and salt, which was employed as a
substitute, proved hut a poor one. Cliloroform was also used with admirahle effect in a case of
luxation of the humerus downwards into the axilla. Tlie patient was brought into the hospi-
till somewhat drunk and in great agony, and, being a powerlul man, was almost unmanageable.
Without the induction of anaesthesia, aH attempjts at immediate reduction — so very import-
ant in these cases — would have been attended with great risk of really aggravating the original
injury, and proving worse than useless, through the patient's own violence. A towel strongly
charged with chloroform, partly through persuasion and partly by force, was applied to his
mouth and nostrils, and almost in a moment he lay senseless and relaxed ; the luxation was
at once and easily reduced, and he woke to ease and comfort.
It appears from the table that every man was reported sick about once in every 5^ months ;
and this fact, as well as the general light character of the cases, argues for the post a high de-
gree of salubrit}'.
It will also be seen how essential it is, in instituting comparisons of the relative healthiness
of military and civil communities, based upon medical statistics, that the character of the dis-
eases, as well as their numerical amount, be considered. A large proportion of cases borne upon
the army "returns of sick and wounded," had they occurred in civil life, would never have
been presented to the notice of a physician. The soldier receives medical attention without cost,
and is, in general, not backward in availing himself of the privilege ; and if his duties are in-
terrupted by the slightest ailment for a single day, the case is recorded. And from the peculiar
nature of his duties, they are liable to be interrupted by a thousand accidents, which scarcely
interfere with the ordinary occupations of civil liie. Thus, he may be disqualified for military
duty by an otherwise trifling affection of a finger or toe ; the one unfitting him for drill at the
" manual of arms," or the other for marching with the requisite precision.
FORT KEARNY.
In the absence of any special topographical report* resjiecting this station, the following brief
statement has been collated from Captain Howard Stansbury's report of his "Exploration of
the Valley of the Great Salt Lake," and from other sources:
Fort Kearny is o])posito Grand Island, on the level plain which extends south from the Platte or
Nebraska river to the distance of three miles, where it terminates in bluffs of moderate elevation.
The immediate site of the fort is about three-fourths of a mile from the right bank of the river.
In 1849, it consisted of several adobe buildings for offices and stables, and two wooden struc-
tures for quarters. The character of the Platte valley here is that of a flat prairie, composed
of sand and clay, in which, when the latter predominates, water is found standing in small
pools ; but wlien the sand is most abundant, the water passes through it like a sieve, and is
quite drained away. The water is generally clear and cool, but much of the sickness among
emigrants has been attributed to its use. This water is evidently derived from infiltration from
the higher levels and bluffs, which in this hidden manner discharge their surplus moisture into
the river. Wood for fuel is difficult to be had, and is mostly procured from the island.
Geographical position: latitude 40° 38', longitude 98° 58' ; distant from Fort Leavenworth
311 miles, by the usually travelled route, and about midway between the Mississippi river and
the Rocky Mountains.
'=■ In repeated instances, the absence of the medico-topographical reports rcqnired by tlie regulations for the Medical De-
partment has been a source of no little embarrassment in tlie compilation of this work. It is clue to the medicnl ofticers,
.however, to state, that these omissions arc not owing to forgetfulness, or intentional avoidance of this 'duty, but arise
from an impression that the required observations on topo,i;Tai)hy, &c., &c., have been made by some of tlieir predecessors
at the several stations. In mu.'it casts, this error might be avoided by special examination of ,the retained records of the
several hospitals. — C.
76
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
FORT LARAMIE.
Respecting this inilitury station, Captain Stansbiiry, in tLe report above cited, gives tlie fol-
lowing particulars:
"Fort Laramie, formerly known as Fort John, was one of the posts established by the Amer-
ican Fur Company for the protection of their trad(i. Its walls are built iu the usual style of
such structures, of adobe or unburnt brick. The soil in the vicinity appears to be sterile, owing,
no doubt, to the extreme dryness of the air and almost total absence of dews. The great quan-
tity of coarse conglomerate, too, which, by its disintegration, leaves the surface covered with
gravel, must operate as a great impediment to cultivation. The rocks, however, contain the
elements of fertility, being composed of limestone, clay, and sand ; and, with the aid of irrigation,
the bottom lands of Laramie creek might be made to produce most abundant crops. Hay is cut,
about eight miles up the stream, in quantity sufhcient for the wants of the garrison."
According to Assistant Surgeon G. K. "Wood, the fort is elevated about twenty feet above the
plain immediately surrounding it, wliich is enclosed by hills at a distance of about a mile, ex-
cept on the north and southwest. The latter direction is occupied by tlie valley of the Laramie
river, through which the wind sweeps almost constantly with great violence ; in summer, raising
clouds of dust so dense as to obscure vision for hours; and in winter, the snow, perfectly dry,
is similarly raised ; and lives are frequently lost on the plains about the post, from the inability
of the traveller to discover the direction to pursue.
As regards the geographical position of Fort Laramie, it is in latitude 42° 12' 38", longitude
104° 31' 26", as determined by Captain Stansbury. Its altitude, 4, .519 feet above the level of
the sea.
The mean annual temperature is 50°. 6, having an extreme range of 123°; rising in summer
to 102°, and falling in winter to — 21°. The mean annual precipitation is 19.98 inches.
DISEASES.
The following table, compiled from abstract No. 6 of this division, represents the aggregate
amount of sickness and mortality among the troops serving in the region west of the Great
Lakes :
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALI'J'Y.
Mean strength.
Number treatci].
Deaths.
RATIO PER 1,000 or MEAN STRENGTH.
Treated.
Died.
7,308
C,'J70
7,306
7, 335
3,158
3,839
5,430
4,320
22
21
25
13
4.32
550
743
602
3
3
TJiird quarter.
3.4
1.7
Anuuul ratio. .... ■__.
7,230
16,747
81
2,316
11.2
16,707
77
2,310 10 6
i
An examination of this table shows that the proportion of cases treated annually, to the
mean strength of the forces, is 2.31 to 1 ; that the corresponding ratio of deatlis is 1 in 89, or
1.1 per cent. ; and that the proportion of deaths to the number of cases treated is 1 in 207, or
0.4 of one per cent. Exclusive of cholera, the deaths were 1 in 94, or about one per cent.
AMONQ THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
77
FEVERS.
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOOETn.
VEAR.
sto
•o
S .
1 Itt
Strfn-'th
7,308 6,970
7,306
7, 335
7,230
.1 s
11
Diiieases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
1 1^
Febris continua communis
Febris intermittens quotiiliana.
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana ..
34
lU
124
7
14
290
22
201
347
7
39
6
1
61
556
411
6
178
3
. 2
2
34
309
4U
8
36
1
1
1
151
1177
1293
28
267
10
3
1
2
1
in 151
lin 392
1 in 1293
Oin 28
lin 133
lin 10
Oin
20
162
178
3
37
1
Febris typhus icterodes
Total
622
1
1215
4
799 2 2926
7
lin 418
407
1
An examination of the original reports shows that the military stations in this region are,
with two exceptions, quite exempt from fevers of an intermittent type. The exceptions are
Forts Crawford and Des Moines. Bearing in mind that these posts ceased to be occupied by
regular troops in 184G, the fact now stated is quite apparent in the consolidated abstracts.
Thus, of 556 cases of quotidian fever, in the abstract for the third quarter, 455 occurred in the
eight years from 1839 to' 1846, inclusive, and only 101 during the subsequent eight years. Of
tertian fevers, 335 occurred during the first eight years, and 76 in a corresponding period after
the abandonment of those two posts. A similar ratio will be found to obtain in the other
quarters. Most of the intermittent fevers at other posts in this region are stated by the medi-
cal officers to occur in recruits from various points on the lower Mississippi.
Surgeon Alfred W. Elwees, in his report of sick at Fort Crawford for the third quarter of
1840, during whicli intermittent fever and dysentery had been very rife, holds the following
language :
"The present report exhibits an unusual degree of sickness. I had anticipated this early in
the season. The Mississippi has bec-n unusually low during tlie whole summer, and tlie
season dry. The prevailing winds during the month of July, south ; in August, east and
southwest; and in September, south and southwest. East and southeast winds bring the fogs
from the Wisconsin, and the south and southwest winds those from the extended marsh lying in
front of the village of Prairie du Chien and the fort. The course of the winds, the dryness of
the summer, and the unusually low stage of water in the Mississippi, abundantly explain the
existence of so much intermittent fever ; and when a remarkably damp atmosphere, almost
daily fogs, and frequently cool mornings, are added to the other prolific causes of bilious fever,
the epidemic dysentery whicli has prevailed here may be readily accounted for."
Surgeon George F. Turner makes the following remarks in transmitting the report of sick at
Fort Snelling, for the quarter ending September 30, 1840 :
"A large proportion of the cases of intermittent and remittent fever reported had their
origin at Fort Crawford, and occurred here in men belonging to a comjniny of infantry wliich
returned to this post. There was nothing peculiar in the treatment of these cases, except, per-
haps, the use of the tartrate of antimony in combination with the suljihate of quinine, wliich was
always prescribed when there was a reasonable doubt as to the condition of the system to bear
the stimulating effect of quinine; and especially in the remittent cases, in which the diaphoretic
efiect of the tartrate of antimony was almost always produced when combined with the quinine,
78
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
while the latter had its specific eflect in preventing the recurrence of the periodic paroxysm.
The following is the usual prescription: Sulph : quiniio, grs. x; tart: ant: et potass, gr. 1.;
ft^ pil: no. viij; one every hour during apyrexia. I consider the combination invaluable in
the treatment of intermittents and remittents, but i)articularly tlie latter ; and my conclusion
is founded on my experience in the management of tliese diseases in Florida."
DlSZiVSES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
YKAR.
l
»
§ s
1
g
s 1
Strength
7,308
6,970
7,306
7,335
7,230
0) m
DisGnscs.
Cuscs.
Deaths.
I
Cases. 1 Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Oases.
Deaths.
1^
116
18
4
1
6
3
4
7
369
60
1
1
1
1
33
974
247
10
5
7
3
162
224
3
3
1
429
51
12
1
4
5
93
165
1
1
1
1
40
1888
376
27
7
20
19
424
713
4
7
1
6
1
1
1
lin 10
1 in 269
1 in 376
2 in 9
1 in 7
Oin 20
1 in 19
Oin 424
1 in 713
Diarrhoea. .
261
52
Dysenteria chronica
4
Enteritis -- _ ---
I
Hepatitis acuta
8
5
102
178
1
2 7
"> 6
Obstipatio
All other diseases of this 65-8-
tem
Total
67
146
58
98
358
7
731 3
1665
7
760
4
3514
21
1 in 167
486
1
3474
17
1 in 204
480
j
The only military stations in tliis region visited by cholera were Forts Kearny and Laramie.
It is well known that in the summer of 1849 the emigrants crossing the western jjlains suffered
with this disease. The garrisons at the abovementioned posts, on the line of emigration^ es-
caped ; but two cases being reported — one at each post. Assistant Surgeon William Hammond,
jr., at Fort Kearny, states that the case of cholera, included in his report for the quarter end-
ing June 30th, 1849, was brought to that post. No case originated there. The case included
in the report for Fort Laramie, really occurred on the march to that post from Fort Leaven-
worth .
Taking the quarterly rejjorts from Fort Kearny in due order, it is foimd that in June, 1850,
Assistant Surgeon Wm. Hammond, jr., reports the health of the troops good, but adds tliat
" the California emigrants, between Forts Leavenworth and Laramie, have suffered a good deal
from a disease called by them cholera, and which, in its sometimes rapid and fatal course, very
much resembles that malady ; but which was nothing more than an acute form of diarrhoea,
brought on by excessive imprudence in diet, and exposure to many hardships on the plains, to
which they were entirely unaccustomed at home. The universal use of quack nostrums, called
cholera mixtures, compo/!cd principally of brandy and Cayenne pepper, has tended to aggravate
the disease when formed. I have seen a great many cases among the emigrants, all of which,
when fairly treated with calomel, opium, and astringents, have readily yielded. I do not think
there has been any true Asiatic cholera upon the plains this summer."
The quarterly report of this officer for June, 1851, contains the following remarks: "The
case of cholera reported above occurred in a recruit, just arrived from Fort Leavenworth, who
had been suffering with diarrhoea several days before reaching this post. When brought to the
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 79
hospital, at 11 o'clock a. ii., June 28, he had all the symptoms of Asiatic cholera — constant and
profuse rice-water discharges from the stomach and bowels; violent cramps in all the limbs;
pulse almost imperceptible ; skin cool and shrunken. Gave calomel, 15 grains; opium, 1 grain;
and applied -blister to abdomen. At 1 o'clock p. m. gave calomel, 30 grains ; soon after which,
vomiting and purging became less frequent, and ceased about midnight, at which time the
pulse had increased in volume, and tlie siciu was slightly warm." This patient recovered.
In transmitting his report for the quarter ending June 30th, 1852, Assistant Surgeon Ham-
mond makes the following statement : "The two cases of cholera reported in Jane are the first
that have occurred among the troops slationed at this post. The men had been, on detached ser-
vice at the village of the Pawnee Indians, on the Platte river, abrmt thirty miles from the State
line. One of them was drunk several times on the road. They both had diarrhoea while absent,
which continued after their return to Fort Kearny, but did not report sick until the rice-water
discharges and cramps of cholera announced the gravi(y of their complaints. When I first saw
them, all the violent symptoms of cholera were jjreseut, large and repeated doses of calomel were
immediately resorted to, and promptly arrested the disease. I have seen some five or six cases
of Asiatic cholera among the emigrants; all of which proved fatal. In these cases, there had
been premonitorj- diarrhcea of several days, and even weeks' standing. I have had frequent oc-
casion to treat this diarrhcea, and found it to yield readily under the use of calomel with a very
small portion of opium. The treatment which I have found most beneficial, in fully developed
cholera, was large and repeated doses of calomel. This remedy has seldom failed to produce a
prompt and decided alleviation of the symptoms, when given in doses of from 20 to 60 grains,
before the total prostration of the stage of collapse."
The reports from Fort Kearny for June and September, 1854, show, that while the troops
continued healthy, cholera prevailed among the emigrants. The reports for the summer of
1853 make no mention of this disease.
The case of cholera reported in the abstract for the second quarter of 1850, and the tnirty
cases in the third quarter of that jear, occurred at Fort Laramie. Respecting this disease.
Surgeon S. P. Moore makes the following remarks, in transmitting his report of sick at that
post, for the third quarter of 1850:
"The Asiatic cholera, one of the most formidable and destructive pestilences the world
has ever known, made its appearance at this post during the past season. I do not intend to
give more than a brief sketch of the epidemic, and to trace its progress to this station. In the
spring of 1849, the cholera appeared among the emigrants, in their encampments at or near
the towns on the frontier, irom whence they took their departure for California and Oregon;
the prevalence of the disease hastened the departure of many companies, they believing the
extensive and healthy prairies would dissipate all traces of the destroyer ; but for a time they
were mistaken, for cases of cholera continued to occur to within fifty miles of this post. Three
soldiers, forming an escort from Fort Kearny, arrived here in July, 1849; one was attacked
with cholera about the end of the same month, and another the 1st of August, as will be seen
by my quarterly report for that period. These were the only cases at the post Tliis year, the
l)rogress of the disease has been somewhat difierent; it attacked the emigrants after they had
left the frontier towns. The disease was prevailing, however, on the Missouri river, and may
have prevailed among the emigrants before they took up the line of march for the land of
promittd riches. The emigrants were healthy when they left; it was after the emigration had
been on the route many days that the disease appeared, about the Big Blue, thirty miles from
Fort Kearny ; from this point to the upper crossing of the Platte river, a distance of about
four hundred and seventy miles, the emigrants suffered severely. Beyond the crossing, the
disease disappeared. Recruits for this post left Fort Leavenworth last sjiring, perfectly liealthv,
and continued so until their road met the one from Independence on one side, and the St.
Joseph's on the other, and then they were in the midst of tlie emigration; on the Big Blue the
cholera broke out among the men. This fort is one mile south of the road to California and
80 REPORT ON THK SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Oregon, and ovcrnin liy the emigration. Tlio first caso of cliolera was on the 21st of June.
From tlie healtliy state of tiie troops, I hail hoped we slidiild escape. It was not so; (liarrJKEa
became quite prevalent, showing some atmosi)heric influence at work; and on tlie 4tli of July
another case occurred; the last case was on the 20th of tlie same month. Much has been
written as to whether this disease is communicated from tiic sick to the healthy, in the manner
of a contagion, or not. From the foregoing short description, it appears to depend upon a pecu-
liar condition of the atmosphere ; that all are liable to it, when under its influence, and in this
way predisposed to the disease. The cholera was confined to the road, and among the emi-
grants. Many Indians remained on the road through curiosity, and for the purpose of beg-
ging; they paid a terrible penalty. Other bands of Indians, wiser than the above, left the
road so soon as they learned there was disease among the whites, and escaped. Of the thirty
cases in July, nine only were of the soldiers, who had arrived here the previous year ; the other
cases were from the recruits just joined, and who had journeyed witli the emigration, and conse-
quently were subjected to the cholera atmospheric influence. The hospital at this post is very
small; all tlie patients were sent to it; yet in no instance did it attack those attached to the
hospital, or the otlier iiatients. The two cases that occurred in July and August, 1849, were
alone ; the command continued healthy. Not a single case of cholera occurred at the post ; but
many persons were necessarily exposed, and, if the disease is contagious, it is incredible that
so great a number of i)ersons exjiosed should escape. It appears difficult to account for all the
phenomena connected with the spread of this disease, without the existence of another agency
than contagion. Many hypotheses have been raised to explain this influence, but they do not
rest on facts, and we must admit our ignorance of the nature of this agency. If epidemic
influenza is contagious, so is Asiatic cholera.
"With regard to the meteorological phenomena of the past quarter, there was nothing to be
observed. The post was kept m good and strict police; thedietconsistingprincipally of fresh meat
and rice. I presume I saw and prescribed for every sick emigrant passing the fort, and many were
necessarily left under my charge. Stimulating emetics, in the forming stage, were prescribed
with the happiest effect. It is known that active vomiting excites the action of the heart and
arteries, and impels the blood from the central vessels to the surface, and should give a healthy
impulse to the circulation in this disease. In the stage of collapse, I am disposed to think that
the ordinary remedies of the materia medica arc not sufficiently powerful ; the patient may be
considered as lost; the remedy is yet to be discovered; and I have nothing to ofl'er which can
elucidate the treatmeni of this disease. More extensive trials should be given to the inhalation
of chloroform and oxygen gas."
Respecting this disease, as it prevailed in the vicinity of Fort Laramie in 1852, Assistant
Surgeon G. K. Wood makes the following statement: "In the summer of 1852, the number
of emigrants crossing the plains from the Missouri to California was very large, and cholera
appeared among them from the commencement of their march. About one thousand deaths
occurred on the Platte river. The disease, although affecting all classes of the emigrants —
those furnished with every possible comfort, as well as the mendicant begging his way to
El Dorado — was not in a single instance communicated to those living in the country, or
returning on the road from California. At Fort Laramie, the military hospital was constantly
crowded with the sick ; they were lying about the garrison and in tents in the surrounding
country; were waited upon by the hospital attendants, visited by the soldiers, and treated by
the medical officer on duty. Almost all had the disease severely; nearly all died ; yet, not in
a single instance was the disease communicated even to those of the garrison in most imme-
diate contact with the sick."
The solitary case of cholera reported in 1854 occurred at Fort Snelling, in a recruit, who
landed at the fort in a state of collapse, and died in a few hours.
Assistant Surgeon Head, writing from Fort Eipley on the 1st of July, 1850, states that
" since the latter part of May a strong tendency to diseases of the intestines, chiefly diarrhcea
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
81
and acute dysentery, has been observed, principally among citizens employed in the quarter-
master's department, settlers in the country, and some of the Indian tribes in our neighborhood.
The same disposition was remarked last summer and autumn, to a degree very unusual in so
high a latitude." In the report of this officer for September, 1851, the prevalence of diarrhoea
and dysentery in the vicinity of Fort Kijiley is again remarked.
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM.
Quarters - - --
FIRST.
SECO.N-D.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
YEAR.
O
(0
s
"s i
= ?,
S f
Strength
1,
308
6,
970
7,306
7,
335
7,
230
V DO
•i o
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
i.
o
Bronchitis acuta et chronica..
20
3
20
1
38
1
30
108
5
1 in 21
14.9
Catarrhus
656
475
419
628
2178
in 2178
301
Phthisis pulmonulis
7
5
9
5
7 1 5
7
30
15
1 in 2
i
Pleuritis
49
47
2
21
36
153
2
1 in 76
21
Pneumonia
21
2
33
8
25
2
87
4
1 in 22
10.6
All other diseases of this sys-
tem
9
11
23
12
55
in 55
7.6
Total
762
10
595
S
516
6
738
2
2611
26
1 in 100
361
Rheumatismns
238
2
291
270
1
259
1058
3
1 in 352
146
Tlie influenza prevailed epidemically at Forts Crawford, Winnebago, and Snelling, in July
and August, 1843. No mention is made of tlie disease at or in the vicinity of Fort Atkinson,
the only remaining post in tliis region then occupied.
With reference to tlie diseases of the respiratory system at Fort Laramie, Assistant Surgeon
G. K. Wood submits tlie following remarks :
" The climate of those broad and elevated table-lands wliich slcirt tlie base of tlie Rocky
Mountains on the east, is especially beneficial to persons suflering from pulmonary disease, or
witli a scrofulous diathesis. This has been known to the French inhabitants of the upper Mis-
sissippi and Missouri for many years ; and it has been their custom, since the settlement of that
portion of the country, to send the younger members of their families, who showed any ten-
dency to diseases of the lungs, to pass their youth among the trappers of the plains and mount-
ains. The beneficial result of this course, no doubt, depends, in a great measure, upon the
mode of life led by tliese persons — their regular habits, constant exercise in the open air, and
tlie absence of the enervating influences incident to life in cities ; but that more is due to the
climate itself, is shown by the fact, that among the troops stationed in this region (whose habits
are much the same everywhere), this class of disease is of very rare occurrence. The reports
from the line of posts stretching from the upper Platte, through New Mexico, to the IJio Grande,
give a smaller proportion of cases of pulmonary disease than those from any other portion of the
United States. Tlie air in this region is almo.st devoid of moisture ; there are no sudden
changes of temperature ; the dejjressing heats of the eastern summers are never felt ; and,
although in the north the winters are extremely cold, a stimulant and tonic #ilect is the only
result of exposure in the open air.
" It is of great importance that the climate of this region should be generally known, that
the present injudicious course of sending con;umptives to the hot, low, and moist coast and
S. SG 11
82 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MOUTAMTY, ETC. — NOUTHEKN DIVISION,
islands of the Gulf of Mexico should he ahandoiied. In tliseases of dehility, the remedies
are tonics and stimulants. What is more debilitating than affections of the lungs, and what
less tonic than heat and moisture combined, as is found in the climate of the Gulf coast? It is
simply not cold, and lias no other advantage over the northern States. The tovens of New-
Mexico should be selected as a refuge for those showing a tendency to disease of the lungs, or
scrofula, anywhere east of the Rocky Mountains^ and west of the region where 'northers' pre-
vail."
The reports of sick contain no other special remark concerning' diseases of the respiratory
system, if we except the following, respecting consumption, by Surgeon George F. Turner, in
Decfember, 1842 : "Considering the medical topography of Fort Snelling, the striking vicissi-
tudes of temperature at all seasons, the high annual range of the thermometer, and the pecu-
liarly exposed position of the station in reference to winds, it might be suspected of favoring
the development of phthisis pulmonalis. The fact, however, is otherwise ; for of 2,267 cases
of disease treated at this post during the last ten years, seven cases only are registered as phthisis ;
a ratio which will probably compare favorably with that of any military post in the Union."
Scurvy. — This disease manifested itself among the troops at Forts Kearny and Laramie in
the first and second quarters of 1840 and 1850. Surgeon S. P. Moore's report for the first
quarter of 1850 has the following remarks:
''The scurvy has increased to a much greater degree than was anticipated. Thirteen of the
cases were very severe, attended by great lassitude ; stifi'ness of the knees and feet ; respiration
difficult upon the slightest exertion ; the countenance exhibiting a pale, sallow, and bloated
appearance ; maculas first on the legs, then thighs and arms ; (Edematous swelling of the legs,
and extensive anasarcous effusions ; the gums spongy and tender, and apt to bleed on the
slightest touch ; the urine turbid and dark colored; the muscular power much prostrated; the
blood dissolved. Indurations of the muscles, and severe pain in the thighs, back, and knees,
were frequent. In some of the cases, pain in the intestines, and constipation ; extensive sub-
cuticular extravasations of blood on the extremities and other parts of the body; passive
haemorrhages from the gums and nose, the gums separating from the teeth, and the teeth be-
coming loose in their sockets. In the fatal case, extreme prostration occurred, with anxious
and oppressed respiration^ dysenteric discharges, and convulsions. The habitual use of salt
and unwholesome food, conjoined with fatiguing labor, were the exciting causes of the disease.
In treating the disease, the causes have been removed as much as possible; fresh animal food
was given in conjunction with vegetable acid drinks. During convalescence much benefit was
derived from tonics, particularly the mineral acids. The solution of nitrate of potash in vine-
gar, so highly spoken of, failed to produce any beneficial results ; on the contrary, it caused
pain in the intestines and diarrhoea." In a subsequent report, Surgeon Moore observes that
the almost entire exemption of the troops from scurvy is due to the liberal supply of anti-scor-
butics furnished by the Subsistence Department.
ABSTRACTS
PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
OCCUKRING AMONG THE TROOPS
NOHTHEEN DIVISION.
84
REPORT ON TUK SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— iVBSTllACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURIUNG AMONG THE
1
FIRST aUARTEE.
1839.
1840. 1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
129.
329.
529.
423.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died. Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
1
1
Febris intermittens quotididna
1
Fevers
Fehris intermittens quartana
Febris rcmittcns
1
Febris tvph us
1
1
1
1
1 . ...
[
Varioloid
I
Cholera Asialica
;
Diarrhoea
1
1
4
3
1
5
1
Dysenteria acuta
Diseases of the oryans
Dysenteria chronica
1
Enteritis
1
Hepatitis acuta
1
1
1
2
6
Obsiipatio
1
9
o
8
1
17
I
All otlier diseases of this svslem
4
Calarrhus
18
32
3
1
8
25
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
Phthisis pulmonalis
1
3
1
1
1
Pneumonia
2
1
All other diseases of this system
1 1
1
1
,
1
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
2
3
1
Neuralgia
i
1
2
1
8
1
Diseases of the urinar>'
and genital organs.
Sirictura urcthrte
1
Svpliilis consccutiva
....
1
1
All other diseases of this class
.:":::;::::
1
1
5
Diseases of the fibrous &
Podagra
1
7
muscular structures.
3
7
Fistula
Abscesses aqd ulcers ....
1
1
8
1
1
17
2
3
1
1
11
1
1
2
4
1
Ulcus
::::::::::::
1
7
2
Contusio
3
Luxaiio
:::::: ::::;:i
Wounds' and injuries....'
3
1
3
6
1
2
3
•
5
4
Vulnus laceratuin
Vulnus sclopeiicum
,
:::::: ::::':i
2
2
1
1
9
2
3
1
1
2
1
4
2
8
7
2
4
5
3
All other diseases
Total
53
122
1
118
96
I
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE NORTH ATLANTIC REGION.— COAST OF NEW ENGLAND.
85
FIRST QUARTER.
AGGREGATE
8TRENGTU.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848. 1849.
1
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
387.
n.'i.
342.
307.
479.
414.
401.
72.
3,927.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.! Died.
1
Cases.
''"'■'•: c^ar
Total
died.
1
5
6
5
1
1
7
30
6
14
18
45
1
2
3
7
3
3
3
1
32
1
39
3
a
1
1
1
1
3
I
1
13
3
5
4
9
1
2
7
8
3
2
10
18
5
6.
3
1
...:::r-8i--
94
3
1
a
15
1
1
1
19
84
13
351
7
33
18
.■.'.■::: ::.:::
4
8
a
a
a
23
1
10
2
34-
1
8
2
2
13
5
4
8
10
7
67
35
1
1
22
19
54
5
1
1
9
3
1
2
1
1
2
6
2
2
1
2
1
1
3
1
2
4
1
1
a
3
9
1
3
4
1
3
1
9
17 i;
_
1
1
15
2
13
31
15
17
"■; ;•■
2
3
1
3
a
1
1
6
2
2
1
2
8
1
4
5
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
5
63
4
61
9
13
119
10
8
34
48
16
6
3
5
47
10
3
14
9S
127
2
2
6
1
3
2
11
3
2
5
6
6
1
6
9
1
11
1
a
18
5
4
8
2
1
6
B
1
1
17
1
2
17
1
2
3
2
2
1
4
3 ::::::
13
3
2
3
4
4
1
2
o
4
2
3
1
4
I
1
8
a
1
6
7
1
1
\
I
2
1
1
3
1
1
1
a
1
•
14
2
3
............
3
8
2
1
2
1
40
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
8
1
2
13
2
1
.>...-
1
1
1
1
10
14
20
1
1
57
149
2
112
a
iai
a
192
242
3
33
1,537
10
86
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG THE
VBAR8
SECOND aUARTER.
1839.
18i0.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OI' DIS-
1
EASEri.
132.
513.
511.
403.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
leases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
1
3
1
2
1
1
2
I
3
1
.
2
Eruptive fevers
Scarlatina
14
4
2
5
1
3
Diseases of the orgnns
connected witii the di-
gestive system.
:
2
2
4
13
1
18
2
11
1
24
9
1
64
2
3
1
6
Diseases of tlie respira-
tory system.
2
4
3
2
3
4
1
2
2
1
2
DiBeases of the brain and
1
nervous system.
9
7
2
6
-
6
1
2
and genital organs.
1
2
1
3
1
1
Diseases of the fibrous & J
1
5
2
2
muscular structures. 1
I
8
Abscesses and ulcers
I
19
2
12
8
1
Ulcus
1
10
2
Contusio
U
1
4
»
Wounds and ijijuries
Bub-luxatio
4
5
4
3
1
2
2
2
1
1
4
6
2
Vulnus punctum
2
Ebrietas
1
2
7
Ha-'morrhois
3
1
Miscellaneous ■
Morbi oc'uii
8
9
3
1
»
29
2 10
5
Total t
1
49
1
186
2
163
1
99
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
TllOOPS AT POSTS IN THE NOETH ATLANTIC KEGION.— COAST OF NEW ENGLAND.
87
'
SECOND QUARTER.
AOOREOATE
1845.
1846.
1847.
1^48.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENGTH.
390.
112.
430.
299.
433.
429.
383.
61.
4,096.
c
ases. 1
Died. C
ases. :
3icd. C
ases.
Died. C
;ases.
Died. C
^ases.
Died. (
;ases. Died. C
'ases. Died. C
'ases.
Died. Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Total
cases.
Total
died.
"
1 .
1 .
1 .
4 .
8 .
2
3
5
4
3
1
i
10
Si
70
5
31
8
6 .
11 .
37 .
1 .
2 .
5 .
13 .
1 .
7 .
21 .
2 .
1
1 .
3
1
. i
1
1
!
1
:::::! :::;.i
4
1
3
4
2
6
3
6
1
4
1
10
4
2
1
23
.■i
17
10 '
1
1
94
SI
13
1
4
30
119
16
254
30
14
12
6
17
13
4
30
47
1
U
10
12
1
6
13
1
29
1
2
2
1
6
13
2
25
1
10
1
22
1
2
2
18
5
27
u
10
4
26 1
1
1
5
1
8
5
1
13
2
2
1
1
2
2
5
1
1
3
2
3
3
4
1
1
1
1
3
1
4
2
...
3
1
2
7
1
3
3
3
2
1
1
2
6
6
7
3
3
1
2
3
1
1
4
2
2
I
a
1
3
1
1
I
4
1
5
90
1
131
18
8
139
10
6
SI
41
19
8
1
2
U
6
16
1
15
1
3
11
13
13
' 1
7
23
1
1
10
'^
20
6
4
29
1
•2
5
5
1
9
6
1
1
12
1
1
13
12
3
11
2
2
6
7
2
15
3
1
12
1
5
3
1
1
5
2
1
1
4
6
2
4
3
1 »
1
9
. 2
5
1
1
1
1
2
1
5
43
11
4
4
43
1
215
10
1
1
2
3
1
24
169
■1
1
2
7
2
I
.1
1
1
1
9
. 2
■ '
5
1
....... ......|.....
1
4
12
. 24
. 23
1
41
. 31
. 3
1 4
1
1
67
L...
. 197
. 121
. 234
2
356 1
198
1
35
1,774 ' 9
i
1
88
REPORT ON TUE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Ko. 1.— AJ3STIUCT OF TUJi PlUNCIl'AL DISEASES AND DKiVTHS OCCURRING AMONG THE
.
THIRD QUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSKS OF DIS-
367.
590.
463.
379.
j SPECIFIC DISEASES.
1
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
2
1
4
3
1
2
2
1
Febris typhus
4
Febris tvplms icterodcs
1
1
1
Eruptiv'C fevers
Variola
[
1
1
17
15
1
32
52
12
11
10
10
2
Diseases or the organs
Enteritis
connected with the di--
geaiive system.
1
8
27
1
5
24
1
12
8
1
11
46
1
85
1
18
n
59
Diseases of the rcspira- ,
3
1
2
5
3
1
1
2
lory system.
3
5
1
1
1
Diseases of the bruin and
nervous system.
1
7
5
6
2
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
7
3
a
3
1
2
1
3
2
exhalcnt vessels.
Diseases of tlie fibrous &. J
1
5
muscular gtruclures.
4
13
10
1
11
2
1
1
14
4
21
a
1
8
1
1
9
1
21
4
11
Wounds and injuries
1
2
4
1
1
a
2
14
18
3
1
2
1
1
3
1
4
9
12
2
4
1
1
1
1
1
25
12
9
42
2
1
9
J
All other diseases
i
24
Total
1.
160
1
375
3
246
1 153
1 1 f
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
TROOPS AT POST.S IN THE NORTH ATLANTIC REGION.— COAST OF NEW ENGLAND.
89
THIRD aUAllTER.
1
1845.
1840.
i 1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENGTH.
316.
65.
95.
404.
282.
382.
423.
168.
103.
4,037.
Cases
.'oied
Cases
. Died
Cases
. Died
Cases
. Died
Cases.' Died
i
Clsee
. Died
Cases
. Died
Cases
. Died
Cases
. Died
Cases. Died
i
Total
cases.
[Total
died.
1
3
3
4
9
2
1
10
23
36
3
15
4
3
4
3
7
3
B
1
4
1 1
1
1
11
2
1
1
1
4
1 ..
as
19
1
37
13
13
9
1
33
19
58
15
3
9
3
6
16
1
265
175
12
1
8
1
1
1
1
1
3
25
1
9
3
67
233
5
264
1
21
4
11
21
■ 39
11
3
10
36
6
15
31
1
10
1
4
7
28
....
6
13
10
1
8
1
I
1
1
17
1
4
1
1
22
13
2
:::::;
2
3
6
2
1
1
1
1
2
3
1
3
1
1
3
1
7
3
1
7
7
5
10
1
2
3
3 1
:::::: 2
.::::;
i
2
1
2
1
1
I
2
1
1
2
1
2
3
6
1
1
1
1
1
3
2
I 2
1
2
1
21
11
23
1
1
5
1
1
j
1
.::::; .:;:::i::;;:::::::::i
I
I
; 1
1
83
3
134
19
8
3
149
17
8
45
14
1
1
9
a
i;
8
4
2
4
1
3
11
2
1
1
1
27
1
2
2
20
2
11
2
1
1 IS
' 1
j
18
6
2
2
1
•
! i
8
2
4
2
4
3
4
2
1
1
12
Ifi
lU
10
2
2
3
3
4
1
. ....... „ 1
""!
1
2
5
12 j
4 ' -
1
2
3
4
1
3
1
2
2
1
:!
13
2
1
3
13
45
16
2
2
49
212
4
1
2
1
1
1
2
1
11
1
1
3
2
6
3
j
1
1
1 1
1
1
, 1
:::::: ::::":i
2
23
2
19
4
18
I
8
3
6
4
1
43
3
175
9
266
3
103
1
9,903
10
I
S. 96-
-12
90
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG THE
YEiRS
FOURTH QUARTER.
1839.
1840. 1841. 1
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
140.
323.
551.
432.
sas.
SPECIFIC DISEASES. Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
Fevers
:::.:: :..::.
\""
1
2
2
1
'
1
4
5
10
11
2
7
1
9
11
Diseases of Uic organs
1
gestive system.
5
15
2
17
1
1
9
4
14
1
7
1
3
19
I
2
::::::
31
1
3
3
21
1
2
1
3
Diseases of ihe respira-j
Pleuriiis
1
1
tory system.
5
1
1
2
nervous system.
All other diseases of this system
1
1
1
1
2
3
Striciura urethra'
Diseases of llie urinary
7
1
2
and genital organs.
1
1
2
Diseases of the serous r
' Ascites ,
Diseases of the tibrous &
muscular structures.
' podagra
2
5
1
6
1
1
10
2
Rhruniatismus, aeutus et chronicus
3
12
15
5. !
Fi>:iula
r"
Abscesses and ulcers. . . ,^
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
3
1
4
2
1
6
o
10
Ambuslio
! 23
1 .
16
I
5
Pracnu^a .. ,-
Luxatio
Puniiio
Wounds ami injuries.... ■
4
5
2
5
1
4
7
5
5
1
5
Vulrius laecratum
1
Vulnus puncium
1
Vulnus sclopeticum
1
3
1
10
2
Debilitas
2
1
1
3
1
1
] Ebrietas
3
3
4
1 3
Heniia
3
6
5
2
1
All other diseases
7
7
.s....
18
9
4
Total
GO
139
1
165
1
105
120
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
mOOPS AT POST'S IN THE NOKTH ATLANTIC REGION.— COAST OF NEW ENGLAND.
91
FOURTH QUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
stre;«ctr.
107.
256.
297.
3S.
405.
406.
70.
100.
3,794.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.j Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
1
1
1
4
2
3
8
5
6
13
1
1
2
1
I
7
19
i
26 i
44
2 :
2 ;
5 1
6
1
1
1
1
::::::::::::
:::::: ::::::i
1
1
i
1
1
7
1
[
5
1
1
1
4
3
10
2
17
8
3
1
1 '•
69
53
a
3
7 \
1 . , ,
1
1
1
5
1
17
7
17
13
45
1
3
■ 6
3
27
118 3
16
^8
5 1 1
23 1
4
1
13
3
5
1
1
2
10
9
13
35
:::::: ..'
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
4
1
1 1
8 '
1
1
2
1
1
6 f
3
12 . *
2
3
1
1
2
...!..::::::
1
8
9
1
4
6
2
6
1
3
"
3
26 ;
1
2
3
1
2
1
1
1
1
15
1
1
1
6
13
1
3
2
1
1
1
2
103
:::::::::::■
1
7
9
7
8
1
5
2
2
7
12
17 '
1
3
2
2
1
10
9
1
11
3
4
13
6
4
I
1
1
10
1
*
13
9 '
5
5
1
7
2
2
1
1 ,_ .. .
1Q8
1
1
1
\ 1
1
1
1
34
49
16
3
3
7
39
14
5
2
99
1
141
1
2
;
1
3
1
2
8
3
3
2
5
1
1
I
5
4
1
1
1
9
1
1
1
1
1
•
1
3
,
2
2
4
1
1
1
1
1
1
1 ■
1
3
1
1
!
1
2
3
j....
1
2
:
1
1
1
13
2
1
10
1
9
11
46
3
S
1
.,9
1
1
83
1
81
2
lid
173
9147 '
48
.IR
1,421
7
1
1
1"" 1 ■■•■
1
92
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG THE
Years
FIRST aUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842. 1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
217.
370.
471.
698. 513.
501.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died. Cases
Died.
Cases
. Died.
1
6
3
7
5
10
7
..... |......|
Fevers {
Febris reniittens
3
2
6
1
3
1
3
Erysipelas
9
2
Eruptive fevers
Scarlatina
Variola
Varioloid
'
Cholera Asiatica
-
Diarrlia'a
2
3
6
4
2
27
4
6
5
7
1
Diseases of the organs
1
connecled \viih the di-
Enteritis
gestive system.
1
Hepatitis chronica
1
8
3
6
4
7
25
1
216
1
1
3
3
5
7
8
14
45
Bronchitis acuta et chronica
Catarrhus
28
1
1
36
1
44
2
1
3
2
43
1
Diseases of the respira-
Phthisis pulmonalis
Pleuritis
tory sysTem.
Pneumonia
1
1
1
2
5
4
1
2
•
All other diseases of this system
Cephalalgia
2
2
3
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
1
1
8
Neuralgia
All other diseases of this system
7
12
2
5
1
3
1
2
2
1
12
1
15
Gonorrhrea
6
8
14
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
Slrietura urethrre
Syphilis pritnitiva
Syphilis consccutiva
3
2
1
3
10
3
1
3
3
2
Diseases of the serous f
Ascites
and t'.\halent vessels, i
All other diseases of this class
Diseases of the Hbrous &
Pernio i
1
Abscesses and ulcers .... -j
nheumatisnius, acutus et chronieus
Fistula :
1
11
4
34
6
21
2
13
Phlegmon et abscessus
2
2
12
8
3
i
Ulcus .;
4
G
1
11
Contu^io
1
5
1
25
1
7
Fractura
1
3
Luxatio
1
6
8
Wounds ami injuries ■{
Suh-luxatio
2
5
4
3
3
6
3
Vuliius laceralutn
5
1
Vulnus sclopcticum
Dcbjlitas
1
2
5
1
Ebrietas
1
Ua-niorrhois
3
6
Hemin
1
1
iMorbi cutis
3
4
Morbi oculi
1
20
14
17
2
Scorbutus
54
1
58
173
2
154
37
28
Total
l^'l
2
173
2
314
10
617
9
155
224
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE NORTH ATI^VNTIC REGION.— HARBOR OF NEW YORK.
93
FIEST QUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRESG-TH.
607.
397.
508.
555.
602.
5^.
654.
549.
790.
193.
8,806.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.' Died.
Cases
Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
2
9
1
22
1
118
15
1
7
21
2
27
3
69
3
8
7
16
226
1
4
3
2
4
2
2
1
^ i
1
3
37
i:
3
1
IS
7
5
1
1
1
2 1
1
1
2
i
1
1
1
1
7
4
1
4 1
1
3
3
2
1
U
7
36
4
44 79 J 4
1 1 ,
26
8
1
21
5
15
7
- I
3 1
65
6
376
48
3
1
3
7
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
i
1
18
44
9
13
30
26
1
330
27
78
11
-38
1
13
17
36
1
65
S
8
1
47
13
24
27
Zi
5
170
2
5
2
2
1
189
347
23
1,700
9
41
50
12
10
10
22
4
25
193
5
152
28
47
1
194
1^
214
1
3
95
32
1
8
3
29
8
1
1
2
13
17
9
4
2
10 2
2
2
2
2
7
1
2
1
1
1
1
i
4
1
1
1
1
1
1
6
3
2
4
, i "
11
1
21
3
3
1
2
4
1
1
8
6
1
2
17
3
46
26
1
7
1«
, 1
7
10
4
6
4
, 11
10
1
1
11
4
1
5
1
10 1
6 1
1 1
27
13
3
4
2
1
6
4
2
1
1
18
1
33
6
3
5
1
i
14
17
15
2
B
29
3
15
2
8
3
15
28
4
4
■ 1
11
4
9
5
20
1
14
1
194
8
140
115
16
173
13
6
71
57
6
13
2
1
6
9
4
10
1
10
3
1
7
16
10
6
5
17 j
1
16
1
11
1
1
3
-5
8
2
24
4
2
5
2
5
18
9
1
18
16
1
■■■| ■ "■
,.
\
11
1
S
2
12
7
7
8
1
2
1
3
2
5
3
1
2
6
4 [
1
1
2
3
1
1
3
, 1
1
2
2
2
3
7
1
32
'
10
3
4
1
17
9
3
5
1
1
1
4
5
4
5
2
3
4
8
10
3
1
1
2
3
-
7
o
54
35
16
17
115
3
1,282
2
2
1
3
2
5
1
20
7
9
5
5
1
32
70
54
1
196
184
96
1
45
1
49
6
456
292
1
821
1
738
5 \ 446
6
213
5
443
1
232
3
283
3
545
2
6,076
50
94
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AJIONG THE
Years '
SECOND aUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean STRENQTB
671.
550.
431.
601.
419.
464.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
1
1
8
1
1
77
11
39
1
6
11
8
Fevers <
I
2
1
3
'
\
3
6
1
7
Eruptive fevers ^
1
1
'
59
13
51
6
35
2
6
35
1
10
3
1
30
Diseases of ihc organs
coonected with tlie di-
gestive system.
36
20
20
40
1 24
1 "
13
7
34
14
1
32
I
All other diseases of this system
2
84
5
28
102
4
3
95
1
1
2
174
1
1
Diseases of the respira-
tory syslcin.
1
2
3
1
1
All other diseases of this system
3
•
1
1
Delirium tremens
Epilepsia
3
2
Diseases of the brain and
2
nervous system.
.\11 other diseases of this system
9
6
3
23
4
16
3
12
1
6
1
15
::::::
1
12
Diseases ol the urinary
8
7
9
2
4
1
6
and genital organs.
2
6
1
7
1
Diseases of the serous e
Diseases of the fibrous &.
muscular structures.
RheumalisDtus, aculus et chronicus
21
13
15
25
13
1
8
32
1
5
1
14
10
1
13
10
12
8
o
18
2
Ulcus .
r
I
3
15
1
6
14
1
1
10
6
6
19
1
12
3
1
Wounds and injuries....
Sub luxatio
6
5
9
6
4
8
8
2
1
34
5
1
7
2
5
a
1
3
2
2
1
2
2
2
Hernia
Miscellaneous
7
35
98
52
22
3
197
19
10
300
1
171
71
72
Total
433
1 1 fi04
623
5
496
5
402
3
324
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHEEN DIVISION.
TROOPS AT POSTS IN^E NORTH ATLANTIC REGION.— HARBOR OF NEW YORK.
95
^ SECOND QUARTER.
AGGREGATE
eTRESGTH.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853. ! 1854.
539.
430.
7a6.
640.
583.
6^.
560.
559.
510. I 351.
8,986.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
ToUU Total
cases, died.
1
2
10
12
1
33
3
33
3
1
2
5
15
3
1
10 ...
13
14
48
14
9
133
19
7
50
52
12
342
19
1
3
::::::
42 2
.
2
4
9
1
1
1
1
11 1 2
1
3
2
4
S
1
19
1
3
3
692
45
8
4
3
1
367
357
62
1,100
15
18
20
14
22
7
26
2
24
303
7
156
23
61
............
1
1
1
1
106
1
1
2
26
3
1
30
45
1
98
4
96
3
1
14
14
4
20
23
4
1
I
2
2
2
1
1
1
33
74
31
aa
36
16
54
43
17
31
29
6
34
3
41
1
1
17
13
1
40
15
14
28
7
31
3
64
3
73
1
131
1
1
153
71
6
16
1
g
1
1
1
6
4
1
2
10
1
9
2
3
2
1
3
2
1
4
1
3
1
8
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
1
1
4
2
1
1
6
1
2
1
2
1
7
1
3
48
1
6
3
2
3
1
1
2
1
9
7
14
11
1
9
12
6
1
4
10
15
1
6
10
16
1
6
22
1
6
....
1
8
7
4
1
21
8
2
I
1
7
3
4
i..
1 ■'
............
10
18
17
3
14
1
23
17
1
20
15
30
32
15
1
U
1
1
10
11
3
8
2
19
275
6 '
8
30
5
23
21
1
34
8
1
8
2
1
27
3
4
219
127
16
1
1
31
I
10
33
2
10
1
1
10
5
16 I
1
i
10
1
15
....
11
6
2
1
3
5
1
::::::
10
1
5
3
4
1
204
10
10
137
73
1
9
2
12
10
4
3
9
8
17
3
1
1
11
2
3
4
1
1
1
1
8
^
10
33
3
7
2
4
3
14
3
a
1
3
1
1
1
2
67
13
3
1
1
13
10
4
1
2
7
5
1
4
9^ CZ
1
1
2
5
6
30
;;;;;;
3
7
1
30
•27
1
2
1 1
33
....
3
4
3
26
9
! 2fr2
1 ^o ■
144
108
211
267
1
104
33
18
40
1,689
2
33
483
393
1
808
3
843
4
511
2
279
2
286
2
266
4
216
2
308
2
7,274
96
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS (MjCURRING AMONG THE
THIRD aUARTER.
1839.
1840.
I8il.
1812.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF nis-
•
633.
954.
1,238.
697.
461.
626.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases
Died
Cases
. Died
Cases
•
Died.
Cases
Died
Cases
. Died
Cases
. Died.
1
8
69
2
4
2
1
2
SH
2
19
7
41
6
23
22
Fevere
2
1
4
1
1
1
.....
5
I
1
1
Eruptive fovers ■
1
1
I
101
9
2
398
52
1
257
192
5
3
4
162
39
57
6
188
1
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
1
: i::"'"
gestive system.
1
65
15
18
61
13
79
5
18
67
24
All other diseases of this system
12
Catarrlius
53
7
133
61
4
1
73
2
28
1
1
76
1
Diseases of the respira- ,
Pleuritis
tory system.
1 Pneumonia
1
a
I
6
2
I
3
3
3
I
1
1
7
Dehrium tremens
6
1
1
2
Diseases of the brain and
1
nervous system.
All other diseases of this system
16
38
1
7
-
24
21
1
B
I
7
6
10
1
29
Diseases of the urinary
40
8
3
5
1
9
9
and genital organs.
6
2
G
5
Diseases of the serous and J
I
exhalent vessels.
Diseases of the fibrous &, 1
muscular structures.
, Rheumatismus, acutus el chronicus
21
31
1
17
1
22
12
16
16
1
18
3
36
Abscesses and ulcers
PliU-gmon et abscessus
Ulcuii
6
35
16
1
8
6
3
31
7
1
14
Contusio
9
15
16
1
28
17
1
Wounds and injuries.,.. .
Luxatio
Suhhixntio
a
1
8
15
1
1
8
16
3
13
6
5
U
5
1
1
1
1
2
3
14
2
1
9
4
2
1
2
2
1
8
5
3
3
82
1
6
.Morbi ocuh
9
1
116
23
14
622 '
449
1
204
1
114
2
152
Total
1
485
3
,577
1 1
,305
10
726
4
390
3
721
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE NORTH ATLANTIC REGION.— HARBOR OF NEW YORK.
97
THIRD aUAUTER.
1815.
1846. 1847.
1848.
1849.
1850. i 1851. 1852.
1 1
1853.
1854.
STRENGTB.
508.
7S0.
sees.
478.
579.
525.
628. 691. 448.
574.
•
10.402.
Cases. Died, jcases.j Died. |cases.l Died.
1
Cases
Died.
Cases. l>ied.
Cages.
Died. Cases.
Died. Cases
Died.
Cases.' Died. 'casies.
1
ni,j Total Total
"'*"• cases, died.
1
11
20
31
10
35
31
3 '. 3
63
21
6
13
26
28
47
22
3
10
3
32
18
390
73
I"""
10
i
31
5
19
■•■"■|
4
1
1
8 1 1
1» i
■ 1
1
1
1
1
!
1
2 I
2
71 ■''«
1
1
•
.............
19 1 15
.::
Q
4
2
2
69
S
44
148
5
1
9
146 327
1 25
300
24
1
434
11
9
1
431
4
1
1
1
34
4
63
83
2
186
10
1
3.293
471
5
7
2
1
1
3 1
I
20
30
138
46
S
59
2
77
37
1
78
39
22
1
83
4
2
39
4
2
19
1
13
12-
15
33
1
10
1
7
35
27
11
11
1 31
: 10
566
430 ;
10 1
802 1
24 8
12
6 1
10 *>
61
1 . 1
1
23
1
28
4
3
9
...
1
1
1 1
1 1 2 1
1 1
1
1
2
1
3
1
«
3 1
1
3
...........
1 2
1 7
1
1
3
16 3
3
1
1
1
1
4
1
10
I
3
33
287
5
6 2 1 1 3 1
2
35
1
1
1
7
2
21
38
36
1
' 16
3
7
14
17
1
7
1 '
1
S
1
j 13
1 '"
6
1
6
2
10
4
2
11
1
1
211
11 1
67
3
4
4
1
7
3
....
2
1
1
■
1
" \
:::::::;::::! :::::i
i
1
6
21
36
20
26
13
4
6
1
16
j 6
6
3
18
1
283 !
6 1
319 1
32
9
49
14
1
16
18
1
30
14
14
3
3
9
21
o
11
1
1
3
123
18
2 !
366
9 1
20 j
96
110
4
9
' 2
3
1
31
15
19 11
1 1 1
13
15
22
17
1
3
S
6
1
6
3
2
1
4
18
1
11
2
5
2
. 1
9
7
7
6
19
10
7
9
2
1
1
2
1
3
......
1
6
^ 1 j ^ t
1
3
SO
103
48
19
21
321
3
18
2
1
3
9
4
14
3
9 '
10
1
1
4
4
1
1
1
8
S
3
2
1
1
11
5
1
I
18
7
1
1
20
S
6
6
4
7
2
2
1
6
11
::::::.:::::;::::::
23
7
4
1
1
19
' S7
333
....'..
^3
314 4
116 1
11
19
14
20
2,913 9
544
1
1,902
3
1,17
2
1,201
8
747
21
230
407
8
4.W
6
asa
1
407
3
11,803
80
S. 06-
-13
98
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG TlfE
Years
FOURTH QUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES ov nus-
£4pK£^.
559.
629.
671.
514.
529.
554.
Sl'ECir-IC DISEASES.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Oases
Died.
Cases
Died.
i
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
1
6
27
2
9
10
5
26
i-Vvi-rs ■
Fehri!^ intermillons terliana
20
1
7
10
1
2
1
3
1
2
1
2
2
1
1
Krujilivc ffvcrs ■
*
1
1
1
76
31
DiarrliQ^a
1
1
81
7
50
40
4
23
2
1
IS
3
24
2
Discuses of tlio organs
connected with llir di'
gcstivc system.
12
7
29
18
1
127
2
1
11
19
3
10
8
6
1
52
U
12
97
I
All other diseases of this system
Catarrhus
57
3
1
2
107
1
2
32
Diseases of ilie rcspira- ,
1
tory system.
2
1
1
2
•
All other diseases of this system
CL'i)halal''ia .
1
1
1
5
1
1
2
2
1
2
1
1
Dipcaseti of tUv Uruiu and
nervous system.
Kpilepsia
4
All other diseases of iliis system
1
20
3
17
1
10
11
1
2
6
14
5
14
1
21
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
Syphilis prinutiva
15
14
1
3
11
7
All other diseases of this class
1
1
2
2
2
2
Diseases of the eerous t
and cxhalent vessels. <
1
1
2
Diseases of ilie fibrous &
muscular structures.
Itheumaltsmus, acutus cl chronicus
Fistula
21
M
23
10
1
9
4
15
2S
Abscesses and ulcers.... .
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
2
8
1
1
2
1
5
5
1
2
8
13
1
I
12
6
5
4
1
13
5
I
13
AVciiiuls and injuries.... ■
2
7
2
8
7
4
10
5
2
10
3
6
1
I
1
1
7
1
8
2
1
1
2
1
2
39
3
Miscellaneous ^
10
6
7
2
103
222
173
1
81
165
37
Tolal
432
5
648
S
532
5
270
1
238
303
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
TROOPS AT POSITS IN THE NORTH ATLANTIC REGION.— HARBOR OF NEW YORK.
99
FOURTH QUARTER.
1845. 1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850. ! 1851.
1
1852.
1853.
1854.
6THE.NGTU.
350.
859.
521.
682.
550.
484.
704.
«@.
507.
578.
^ 9.333.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died. Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
1
22
7
1
1
19
39
5
114
1
27
t
9
59
19
8
13
4
11
17
2
31
25
310
4
3
1
1
17
1
8
2
1
1
11
65 3
1
6 7
1
1
1
....
1
1
1
1
2
3
2
3
•
1
e 1
1
2
4
1
18
123
43
64
12
152
2
1
5
■■♦..
26
4
37
1
3
1
40
40
3
1
25
3
23
26
9
2
806 6
207 4
11 2
2
13
26
5
176
1
7
11
'
3
18
8
31
48
10
309
1
4
1
31
12
4
14
5
2
12
8
28
1
10
8
3
21
1
1
1
8
6
27
4
241
228
22
1,185
8
13
3
1
55
1
1
95
28
80
18
1
19
I
11
S
4
1
1
2
3
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
13 1 1
IK
4
11
2
1 "
2
2
2
1
1
3
|..;...
2 1 '^'^
1
1 ;
8
29
6
18
203
6
205
19
1
4
3
3
3
1
3
5
1
2
23
1
19
8
4
1
3
3
28
26
4
8
9
1
6
2
2
8
17
7
12
1
2
1
1
37
1
3
16
1
^
3
13
6
2
6
1
4
4
1
1
2
34
5
2
7
1
1
1
1
2
■■■|
13
36
17
■'■• ,
8
2
6
1
7 4
1 -2
14 .1
8
260
4
146
107
19
1
214
13
5
76
53
5
4
5
25
61
26
10
19
113
1
1,315
8
9
1
17
7
2
17
22
1
10
"io" ::::::
9
1
2
14
13
2
10
4
5
2
2
2
2
4 1
14
1
39
13
20
8
17
13
1
I
1
1
1
23
12
3
2
13
'
...................
:::;;■ ::::■■:::::■
4
2
3
8
6
G
5
3
3
2
2
15
1
4
2
.::::: :::::'i
1
1
4
5
2
7
10
5
3
12
1
1
............
3
7
2
5
12
3
2
1
5
7
1
6
3
1
3
1
3
1
6
2
2
3
11
1
:::::: .....
1
3
7
1
2
1
a
•
1
10
41
160
1
131 :
170
40
39
1 12
13
19
2
211
1
887
3
543 '
807 10
196
1
246
3
382
8 211 3
205
1
204
6.317 1 47
1
100
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 3.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
FIRST QUARTER.
1839.
1840. , 1811.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EAj^S.
Mean strength
384.
388.
377.
393.
389.
373.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Febris continua communis
3
4
2
2
4
1 1
Febris intermittens quotididna
Febris intennitten? tertiana
4
1
5
Febris intermittens quartana
Febris remittens
Febris tvplius icterodes
1
.... 1..,.
Varioloid
2
Cholera Asiatiea
niarrlitra
6
21
.... 44
27
32
34
1
Dvsenteria acuta
•
Diseases nf the organs
Dvsenteria chronica
1
connected with tliedi-.
gestive sysieui.
Hepatitis acuta
1
Hepatitis chronica
Ohstipatio
52
16
31
61
15
26
8
27
All otlicr diseases of this system
Bronchitis acuta et chronica
36
45
Cat.arrhus
42
71
177
56
61
140
1
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
Pleuritis
5
1
1
1
1
1
All other diseases of tills system
Cephalalgia
61
62
39
84
41
136
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
2
|.
2
Diseases of the urinar}'
and genital organs.
1
Syphilis priuiitiva
Syphilis conseculiva
3
Diseases of the serous^
Ascites
and cxhalent vessels. (
All other diseases of this class.
Diseases of the fibrous &
mu>>cular striictiirrs. 1
I
f
Rlicu inatismus, aculus el chronicus
Fistula
14
18
14
11
8
10
Abscesses and iilrcrs .... \
riilegmon et absccssus
10
8
8
12
4
6
5
[
Ulcus
Ambustio
.2
25
1
29
8
21
18
31
Fraetura
1 1
Lux.itio
17
Wounds and injuries
16
3
8
15
13
Vulnus incisum
10
9
Vulnus laceraluni
3
Vulnus sclopeticuin
f
Dcbilitas
EbrieLxs
Miscellaneous
•
25
10
8
1
5 .
65
4
8
51
4
70
7
56
— J,
50
Total
240
351
380
485
1
^ , ^. ^ _ _
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE CADETS AND TKOOPS AT WEST POINT.— NEW YOUK.
101
FIRST QUARTER.
AGGREGATE
STRENGTH.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850. 1851.
1
1852.
1853.
1854.
378.
370.
378.
437.
477.
493.
533.
486.
517.
48a.
6,855.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
1
Cases. Died. Cases.' Died.
1 1
Cases. Died.
i
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died. Total Total
casein, died.
11
10
8
5
9
8
5
7
71
10
3
3
6
6
...
'
■ i
1
1
1
1 1
1
1
1
1
3
4
4
3
4
•
2
2
a
4
1
1
1
6
...
25
2
13
29
19
19
53
23
28
2
21
9
18
402
14
1
1
2
1
1
I
L
1
4
77
21
87
15
28
12
67 '
12 '
40
1
33
1
24
5
20
4
18
13
29
194
624
217
135
123
1
6
133
172
103 95
137
139
1
1
1
166
1,967
2
3
1
1
1
1
3
50
17
4
23
1,186
1
2
115
1
1
1
1
44
1
4
90
11
50
1
2
23
144
108
110
29
2
2
2
1
3
3
1
g
2
1
2
2
2
3
1
2
1
1
1
12
15
3
2
6
1
3
1
... 1
i
1
1
2
'i
1
1
2 10
1
1
3
1
4
10
7
16
13
19 ,
14
13
6
9
19
aoi
10
20
10
19
1
3
16
21
16
1
1
21
63
67
308
10
11
1
489
7
as
178
95
5
7
2
1
1
1
1
, I
27
2
37
41
43
24
28
29
1
26
3
1
4
3
1
44
9
3
10
a
58
3
19
7
24
11
28
6
5
3
1
15
6
19
5
■ 1
9 1
2 :
14
4
1
a
. %..
...:::..;;;.
2
1
2
3
5
75
1
1
4
I
43
5
2
4
8
86
4
4
2 ! 1
3
1
9
73
■■
1
6
56
3
a
179
4
106
......
3
75
12 '
6
75
5
119
:::::: ^
1,201
I
613
476
482
542
1
445
354
I
378
477 1 656 7.3-36 6
102
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 3.— ABSTRACT OF THE TRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCUMIINQ
SECOND QUARTER.
1839.
1840. 1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
Mean strenotd
373.
3@.
374.
381.
373.
373.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases
Died
Cases
. Died. Coses
Died
Cases
Died
Cases
Died.
CnsCH
Died.
5
S
11
5
2
18
SO
20
4
2
1
r
2
Ernpiivfi fevers ■
,
6
21
16
14
U
1
40
1
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
1 [
-
35
37
16
! 38
17
8
11
28
All other diseases of this system
65
17
Catarrhus
50
53
92
1 77
303
134
Diseases of ilic respira-
tory system.
1
!
1
1
14
70
12
82
16
108
76
76
59
Diseases of the brain and
1
nervous j-y^^tcni.
:
•4
Diseases of the urinarj-
1
3
1
All other diseases of this class
2
1
1
1
Diseases of the serous^
Diseases of the fibrous &
Portapra
muscular suuctures.
Rheuinatismus, at-utus ct chronicus
Fistula
29
12
25
14
1
9
7
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus .
15
37
16
15
I
8
11
3
126
1
29
1
as
33
16
32
1
Wounds and injuries
Sub luxatio.
2.1
6
U
e
8
9
20
4
6
W
4
3
2
3
3
7
10
4
a
1
8
70
2
1
5
5
92
3
7
a
4
34
1
113
1-S
337
321
479
416
2
632
.MS
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE CADETS AND TROOPS AT WEST POINT.— NEW YORK.
lOS
SECOND aU.\RTER.
AGGREGATE
STRE.VCTU.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851,
1852.
1853.
1854.
364.
368.
391.
456.
434.
494.
480.
436.
443.
423.
6,563.
Cases.
Died. Cases
Died.
Cases.' Died.
1
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Toial Total
cases, diid.
7
10
15
2
4
15
7
4
90
8
6
6
2
I"'
9
16
27
10
11
14
157
4
2
1
!
1
8 1
1
■ t ■■
3
1
«
1
J
3
1
1
1
,
1
1
37
37
35
35
7
■•••••
44
62
24
1
22
13
49*
463
18
1
.■:::;:::::::
9
59
6
61
8
30
27
52
19
43
9
36
3
20
13
23
3
12
19
29
193
558
88
83
113
89'
30
80
87
1
1
83
1
1
3
53
'
2
5
100
1
61
1
1
6
27
1
1,343
1
5
4
G2
1,304
1
9
12
28
19
3
4
1
10
3
3
3
107
1
96
1 1
87 1
2
36
I
1
2
41 1
120
135
i29
1
4
1
'
1
1
1 1
1
1
1
1
1
5
....
12
8
2
1
5
1
1
1
2
J
2
2 ....:
1
1
2
1
1
...... ......
1
1
3
1
1
1
1
2
■■■«
11
11
10
U
4
12
7
4
20
15
201
1
9.
37
9
11
1
29
1
32
-23
26
2
2
34
104
48
395
42
12
510
4
27
S!l
131
8
6
1
34
1
52
4
1
34
1
40
4
24
23
22
2
1
33
6
3
32
51
__
35
47
1
4
17
8
1.
7
8
5
1
■7::;:::
7
9
8
21
13
19
10
10
14
18
10
1
20
4
3
1
6
1
3
1
1
3
8
1
2
1
1
1
4
3
::.::: ..::::
a
"
6
3
1
3
1
2
1
2
6
76
1
2
10 ■
117
1
13
90
2
6
91
3
15
88
2
6
96
3
6
83
24
6
91
5
74
5
79
103
1,316
8
545
538
521
543
1
474
528
410
1
400
1
480
2
451 1 1
7,627
104
REPORT ON THE SrCKNESS AND MORTALITY
Ko. 3.— ABSTRACT OF THK PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
VEA.RB
THIRD QUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
408.
404.
433.
414.
371.
393.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
! Died.
Coses
Died.
9
2
7
40
6
15
3
17
Fcbris intermittens qnoiidiana
34
15
5
Fevers ^
6
1
1
[
1
Rubeola
1 Variola
•
44
77
144
*• -
78
14
96
4
84
3
24 I
Diseases of the organs
connecicd with the di-
Hepatitis acuta
1
gestive system.
Hepatitis chronica
21
27
33
47
39
10
19
5
33
All other diseases of this system
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
48
50
22
61
64
73
67
Diseases of the respira- ,
Pleuritis
Pneumonia
1
1
80
11
37
33
61
6
83
45
51
Delirium tremens
Diseases of the brain and
Epilepsia
I
nervous system.
..
All other diseases of this system
1
6
3
3
5
4
2
Diseases of the urinary
j Syphilis primitiva
and genital organs,
1
3
1
1
1
1
Diseases of the serous and J
exhalent vessels.
Ascites
Diseases of tlie fibrous &. ,
Podagra
*
museular structures.
• Rhouinatismus, acutus et chronicus
, Fistula
13
10
■ •••
9
13
8
11
Abscesses and ulcers
i Phlegmon et absccssus
Ulcus -
26
14
17
1
11
13
Ambustio
1
3
Amputatio
Contusio
36
23
31
33
31
58
Wounds and injuries....
Lu\aiio
; Siib-luxatin
Vulnus inrisum
13
15
14
7
12
12
12
14
8
14
Vuliiu:> lacfrraluiii
Vulnus punctum
1
Debihus
7
1
3
3
Hieniorrhois
6
6
::::" ■ vi
3
6
Miscellaneous
3
6
7
334
Morbi cutis
6
142
3
1
173
3
5
160
Morbi oculi
5
oaft
46
1
355
614 1
1
3
721
2
546
1 r.c-7 1
580
1
]
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE CADETS AND TROOPS AT 'WEST POINT.— NEW YORK.
lOS
THIRD QUARTER.
1845. 1 1846. ' 1847. 1848. 1849.
1 {
1850.
1851. 1 1852. : 1853. ! 1854.
1 1
STRESCTH.
372.
416.
4SS. 1 313. 306. i 539.
492. 500. 1 430. «M.
7,035.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died, 'cases.
Died. Cases
Died. Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
r ; 1
Died. Cases. Died. Ca.«es. Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
8
5 j
2
4
6
12 1 14
15
11
8
1 1 .. 1
Ill
44
2
8
1
7
9
22
1
28
46
19
6
23
252
1 1
3
5
1
15
■■
1
1
_ ..
. ... i
.:::::::::::
'
1
1
1
............
1
1
1
1
4 1
1
. ^
:::::: ......1
3
238
.1
3
1
2
83
6
5 3
119
97
1
39
8
107
23
1
Ml 90
3 3
50
1
78
3
1 1.524 1
H4 4
1
1
1
20
50
1
3S
100
at
es
11
29
1-3
44
14
32
6
24
6
30
3
19
■■;;;;
4
230
ISO
74
43
36
1
33
40
41
1
1
65
S3
77
1
I
57
880
2
3
1
4
1
60
847
3
66
2
45
3
23
4
29
1
43
2
23
1
33
91
53
80
1
2
:::::::::::■
3
1
2
6
1
2
9
:E:
2
3
6
I
7
1
4
I
1
3
I
a :
4
8
3
2
1
25 2
3 (
2
34
3
1
I
9
1
1
3
3
2
1
1
12
1
1
«
.
6
7
12
14
13
17
4
6
7
8
156
S8
25
6
17
1
12
18
2
41
32
41
1
1
S3
52
2
1
41
362
39
11
1
530
3
17
242
139
94
31
1
60
1
a
....
1
2
I
17
23
SO
21
24
27
1
39
40
32
2
4
16
13
6
5
18
12
26
7
17
2
38
3
83
4
16
10
7
3
1
3
18
18
3
1
3
9
10
13
1
4
7
2
4
9
1
8
3
4
1
1
9
I
3
7
7
1
o
5
3
1
5
1
3
3
168
......
1
3
12
114
2
3
1
2
6
150
42
i ■
3 '
6
9
133
3
14
162
7
5
1 131
2
4
141
37 1
46
4
47
1
10
103
93 1
a,iao 1 1
699 1
351
476 1 1
494 ' ' 6.-.9 ' 4 ' .ToO 1 2
509
.wi ' 1 aas ' a
528 '
8,918 15
S. 9G-
-14
106
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 3.— ABSTRACT OF THE PKINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
FOXJRTII aiJARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
400.
395.
411.
399.
372.
38S.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Ciuea.
Died
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
4
2
6
1
'
2
11
Frhris intermittens tertiana
y
6
2
4
4
Eniptive fevers ■
..A..
Diarrha?a
30
21
1
34
26
2
20
2
33
Diseases of the organs
coiineclod with the tli-
get^iivc yystciii.
11
25
14
37
15
10
14
14
16
18
All other diseases of this system ! ^^
' Catarrhus
141
144
196
63
75
1
131
Diseases of ihe rcspira-.
tory system.
1
10
58
1
7
8
7
111
1
101
Cephahilcia
60
40
Diseases of the brain and •
nervous system.
■
1
2
3
Diseases of the urinary
1
1
an<l genital organs.
1 All other diseases of this ela.ss
2
j
1
2
1
Diseases of the serous e
1
Diseases of the fibrous & I
muscular structures. i
L
1 Uheumaiisniusj aeulus ot ehronicus
5
9
20
10
8
16
Abscesses and ulcers,,.. ■
I'liU'cnmii el aliscessus
UIru-<
10
5
4
13
S
1
3
22
7
8
8
2
15
1
11
1
1
50
5
30
19
Wounds and injuries.,,. ■
28
11
18
14
U
14
11
21
9
1
.
::::::::::::
1
5
6
1
2
Miscellaneous ^
1
7
35,
6
135
•;::::
4
5
108
2
61
2
8
98
6
79
Total
1
413
1
397
562 1
332
383
505
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE CADETS AND TKOOl'S AT WEST POINT.— NEW YOKK.
107
FOURTH CiUARTER.
!
1815. 1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRE.NOTa.
375.
388.
421.
504.
512.
512.
526.
543.
497.
509.
7,149.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
' Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
' Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases. Died.
1
Cases
. Died
Total
cases.
Total
died.
9
28
7
7
7
4
6
95
9
70
7
4
1
1
1
4
5
5
13
7
8
7
7
2
2
1
1
1
6
•
1
1
2
3
2
1
1
1
k
37
42
31
1
96
4
63
43
44
27
23
27
1
527
11
1
30
33
1
160
495
18
52
2
53
11
48
13
25
5
31
6
25
3
37
16
39
6
29
78
269
114
164
78
73
101
158
100
75
1,960
1
21
1
4S
1,168
9
10
1
1
1
2
36
9
88
4
65
4
32
1
39
160
151
144
33
42
1
2
1
5
3
1
2
3
2
1
1
3
1
7
11
24
18
2
6
i:
1
3
1
3
1
3
1
I
2
7
2
1
1
1
1
1
I
3
3
1
1
1
1
2
4
1
:::::: i
1
1
1
,,\ 1
1
9
14
9
14
17
4
6
11
2
7
161
16
16
1
11
14
28
1
1
34
22
27
49
1
1
35
88
60
378
4
21
456
4
8
287
no
44
10
3
17
1
36
1
19
102
1,4-22
2
10
1
15
4
46
1
27
29
84
3U
40
1
8
7
3
5
1
1
13
5
3
5
7
2
23
5
28
S
27
4
30
14
8
2
1
U
3
21
5
4
9
1
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
1
3
1
2
6
1
1
5
95
2
1
2
4
3
I 1
5
7
169
S
4
185
6
79
12
52
9
10
82
8
63
84
48
49
558
770
532
523
464 1
339
417
496
575
504
^-70 i
3
108
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 4.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIl'AI, DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG
FIRST aUAKTER. |
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842. j 1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF Dis-
357.
497.
466.
463. 528.
346.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
•
Cases. 1 Died.
1
Cases.l Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
i
Died.
Cases.
Died.
-1.
7
1
2
3
G
8
3
2
1
1 1
2
1
5
2
1
4
3
12
2
■
7
4
11
1 1
3
1
connected H'iih ihe di--^
1
gestive svsiein.
Hepatitis acuta
1
Obstipatio
2
8
4
7
4
14
8
17
1
48
1
9
3
5
8
1
29
All other diseases of this system
17
4
76
; 2
9
1
1
CataiThus
-
51
2
2
4
1
65
1
16
8
2
1
tory system.
2
4
Pneumonia
3
Cophai.'ilgia
7
8
1
diseases of the brain and
neivous system.
1
1
1
4
2
I
1
1
4
4
3
1
All oilier diseases of this system
Gonorrhfca
1
1
1
1
4
2
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
Strictura urethra'
1
Syphilis priiniiiva
Svphilis consecutiva
1
7
2
1
2
1
2
2
2
4
Diseases of the serous t
1
2
1
3
1
4
Diseases of ihe fibrous & j
Podagra
muscular structures. 1
Rheumaii.^nuis, aculus et chrnnicus
Fi:^lula
4
3
2
8
8
10
Abscesses and ulcers
Phlegmon et abscessu.s
1
4
1
2
1
19
16
10
1
11
8
7
1
13
1
5
2
UK us
Ambustio
Concussio cerebri
7
1
25
5
o
3
3
1
7
11
1
1
Fractura
Luxutio
Wounds and injuries
6
10
1
11
6
10
5
71
Vulnus incisum
Vulmis laceratum
3
1
Vulnus punciuin
1
2
Vnlnus selopeticum
6
f
Debilitas
'
5
2
„
1
12
Ila'inorrhois
5
1
. 4
1
Miscellaneous
! Hernia
Morbi cutis
1
6
14
3
7
22
1
6
10
Morbi oculi
2
2
10
14
15
All other diseases
Total
1»
97 1 ^
166
255
3
200
oco
2
132
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE NORTH INTERIOR.— EAST OF THE GREAT LAKES.
109
FIRST QUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850. ! 1851.
1
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENGTH.
S96.
87.
49.
74.
140.
136.
123.
88.
38.
41. ! 3,731.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
ni-rt Total Total
"'*■'• 1 cases, died.
3
7
2
1
4
27
7
13
1
1
1
1
3
..::;.!.;;;::i:
j
!
«
;
I i
,
1
1
1
6
7
1
j
1
i
7
1
3
1
6 2
3
3
62
15
1
3
3
a
8
4
37
3
1
2
1
2
3
9
3
7
3
15
7
2
48
112
20
404
7
42
35
1
9
20
9
11
9
8
1
9
6
13
3
12
1
1
2
3
3
1
9
2
3
21
8
3
1
1
2
2
J
1
1
3
6
...;:
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
2
2
1
1
1
•
3
i...
1
2
' 1
i
1
1
1
13
1
1
9
1
2
1
4
1
3
2
1
2
1 ■=.
1
69
48
13
1
69
7
3
4
i
2
1
2
I
1
2
1
1
1
i
9
1
3
1 •
3
2
2
1
2
2
1
S
4
::::::.:.::::::::.
3
1
1
€^
1
1
1
1
84
1
1
2
10
8
10
4
48
11
1
1
1
1
2
2
1
11
4
R
1
2
1
S
■■■
....
7
38
inn
1
j
2
9
« i ' 1
1
3
1
'
116
21
10 1
ao
65 2
40 1 67
38
23
29
1,541 ' 13
110
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 4.— ABSTRACT OF THE rKlNCIl'AL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG
V'BA.ita
18
SECOND QUARTER.
i9,
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean strength
457.
510.
430.
460.
591.
342.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
1
Died. Cases
1
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
[■
2
3
12
4
o
5
8
8
1
5
1
:::;::i 2
Fevers ■
Febris ititerniittens tertiana
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
17
2
1
EriiptiVR fovurs
6
1
DiarrluL-a
2
9
2.5
1
21
3
13
4
2
18
4
5
3
Diseases of the orgiins
. , . .. -i
la
conncntcd witli tlie di-
gestive system.
8
14
8
6
1
10
3
15
4
48
3
17
3
84
1
3
4
1
2
1
1
1
1
5
10
I
All other diseases of this system
27
23
1
5
1
1
2
61
1
2
21
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
3
7
5
2
1
3
5
2
2
1
1
4
1
3
1
1
2
1
3
1
2
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
Nenral'-ia
3
1
4
■
3
8
1
f
S
1
Diseases of tlio urinarj'
8
2
4
2
and genital organs.
1
2
I
1
1
Diseases of the serous j
1
1
1
Diseases of tlie fibrous & J
muscular structures. [
Kheuniatisnins, .irutus ot cliroiiicus
U
13
10
1
12
10
8
1
7
1
1
7
1
5
3
Abscesses and ulcers ....
Phlegmon et ahseessus
truus
4
8
2
9
1
4
27
2
1
1
10
13
8
3
12
3
1
8
8
16
5
1
5
6
1
8
9
9
10
2
1
10
16
4
.......
'
Wounds and injuries.... ■
8
13
1
3
3
17
4
1
1
3
Debilitas
8
5
6
1
Hiemorrliois
3
1
1
16
Hernia
1
1
3
1
Mifictnancous ■
1
lo
8
6
7
15
1 2
::::::''29'
1
9
1
6
Total
154 1
205
2
231
4
248
4
263
4
115
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE NOKTH INTERIOR.— EAST OF THE GREAT LAKES.
Ill
SECOND QUARTER.
1
ACOReOATB
STRENGTH.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852. 1853.
1854.
287.
87.
54.
81.
i;e.
134.
94.
39. 34.
44.
3,706.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.' Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
1
1
1
2
2
7
6
2
43 - - -
6
2
4
::::::::::::
30
27
6
10
1
5
6
5
1
1
1
3
1
i
1
2
1
1
8
17
%
6
1
6
4
1
2
4
4
7
2
2*
4
119
2.1
2
14
I
o
53
114
14
321
2
25
27
6
11
.'>
16
5
22
: 1
1
1
1
1
2
:::::: ::::::
I
2
11
2
20
5
1
3
1
1
3 >
" 1
2
6
5
2
7
2
2
1
6
1
3
7
12 1
3
1
4
1
4
2
1
.... 1
1
3
1
1
1
3
2
1
1
1
2
....:.-:::
1
2
1
1
1
5
1
3
1
1
:::: i
1
1
15
1
2
1
4
1
1
9
1
1
1
]
a 1
; 1
7
1
7
1
3
1
2
1
5
4
7
1
I
93 1
2
68
35
14
72
16
6
46
71
2
3
1
2
I
1
1
1
\
:::::':
1
1
1
2 ■
3 '
3
'
1
\
2
1
2
1
2
2
1
1
3
1
1
1
4
1
2
2
1
8
3
7
3
2
2
j ■
2
3
7
1
52 1
i
::::::i.:::::
1
4
1
4
3
1
53
1
85
1
1
1
2
1 7
1
2
1
3
3
1
95
38
15 1
1
40
1
48
73
33
17
17
33
1,624 1 17
112
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 4.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG
YsAitg
THIRD aUARTEU.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842. 1 184.^.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
1
i
363.
555.
497-
is!!.
503.
324.
1
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
1
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
1
Cases. Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
13
4
1
' 3
5
10
13
1
1 4
2
2
3
Fcvcre
2
1
1
2
1
1
•
16
5
56
6
52
2
28
9
23
7
12
4
' Enteritis
8
1
geativc system.
4
9
1
14
4
30
9
29
2
28
1
6
16
5
38
6
12
4
139
2
14
2
17
1
L
1 All other diseases of this system . .
Catarrhus
19
Diseases of ihe rcspira- ,
3
3
5
1
1
3
1
3
5
2
4
3
Pneumonia
1
I
8
1
3
3
5
2
1
3
5
3
2
1
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
2
2
1 i::::::i
1 Neuralgia
1 All other diseases of this system
1
.
1
1
1
1
7
2
Diseases of the urinary
2
3
3
3
1
2
1
1
1
and genital organs.
1
2
2
Diseases of the serous and J
Ascites
4
Diseases of the fibrous St .
muscular structures.
Rheumatismus, acutus et chronicus
Fistula
11
8
11
9
5
12
Abscesses and ulcers
Phlegmon ct abscessus
! Ulcus
4
3
4
13
18
4
2
12
3
1
7
4
4
12
2
1
17
1
1
Contusio
2
22
8
1
10
6
Wounds and injuries. . . . .
Luxatio
1
1
8
2
1
Sub luxatio
4
8
2
15
7
10
■■;;■■;:.:::
13
1
1
Vulnus laccratuin
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
3
Debilitas
1
11
3
1
2
3
1
16
1
Miscellaneous
. Hernia
1
2
39
37
4
3
4
9
3
13
8
1
7
Morbi oculi..
2
19
1
^R
Total
128
290 ' "'fi
1
233
1
286
135
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
THE TKOOPS AT POSTS IN THE NORTH INTERIOR.— EAST OF THE GREAT LAKES.
113
THIRD QUAKTER.
1845.
1846.
1847. 1 1848.
1849. ISoO.
1851.
1852.
1853. 1 1854.
STRB.NGTU.
135. 63.
70. j 96.
83. 1 133. 86.
1
36. i 34.
44.
3,473.
Cases
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died. Cases. Died.
Cases. Died. ICases. Died.
1 1
Cases
Died. Cases
Died.
Cases. Died.
Total
cases.
Total
died.
2
A
3
4
1
1 1
4
1
1
41
28
58
3
4
5
7
5
2
9
7
1
1
7
S
!.__...
1
"•■■
1
1
1
i
1 1 i " '" '
1 1
j
[
1
3
2
"""""1 T'— !
1
1
,
3
3
10
7
: 17
i '
i 10
1 4
1
21
1
8
7
i
8
3
11
2
17
11
295
69
1
1
i
8
4
2
64
18U
15
256
4
S2
18
5
14
11
15
18
6
18
1
2
1
7
15
! 1
1
1
2
4
3
10
5
2
9
1
1
5
10
1 1
6
i. ,,
2
3
2
4
4
9
2
1 '
2
■ ■
1
1 9
1
3
1
1
I
1
1
4
1
2
[ 1""""
3
1
1
1
3
2
2
2
T :.....
1
1
i
2
' 1
2
1
1
::::::i::::::
11
7
9
1
1
:.::::::::::::::::::::::
1
1
1
j
i
1
4
1
4
2
9
o
2
1
69
:::::. -"J
7
4
1
2
3
1
5
3
3
86
31
7
1
75
4
3
31
69
18
5
a
7
SI
11
4
20
61
109
1
1
I
5
1 1
1
1
3
'
I
2
1
2
9
3
1
2
3
5
1
\
1
1
. .
2
I
3
1
2
2
4
3
-1
1
2
2
2
1
i
2
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
7 4
1
a
1
74
GO
32
48
73
,M .... ■)» 93 ' 35
1 62
I.s,v3 3
S. 96 15
114
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 4.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG
Years
FOURTH QUARTER.
1839.
1840. 1 1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
440.
441.
469.
517.
334.
307.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
1
Cases.! Died.
Coses. Died.
7
7
1
1
5
1
1
1
1
1
5
4
9
Fevers
Fcbris intermittens quurlana
"•r-
"■; 1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
8
22
2
25
1
31
2
7
2
1
■
1
' Hepatitis acuta
1
1
4
5
1
2
1
10
28
1
2
3
5
16
2
40
1
3
13
2
63
2
1
7
20
4
68
1
14
2
\ All other diseases of this system
9
a
]8
1
Diseases of iJie rcspira-
2
11
5
2
g
All other diseases of this system
1
2
1
4
1
2
2
Discases of the brain and-
nervous system.
1
Neuralgia
o
■■■;■■ :::::;i
All other diseases of tliis system
4
2
2
1
3
1
a
2
3
1
2
1
Disca^ies of the urinary
and gt-nital or<;:iiis.
3
1 2
3
1
2
1
1
4
1
Piseases of the serous*
1
1
1
3
Diseases of the fibrous &
■
muscular structures.
1 Klieumatismus, acutus et chronicus
Fistula
6
4
12
12
11
3
4
5
1
13
14
1
5
7
4
1
20
4
1
3
17
8
4
3
1
21
2
5
8
2
Ulcus
6
13
1
26
1
8
4
3
Luxatio
Wounds and injuries.,.. ■
8
9
4
11
■■■;■■ :::;;:i
7
5
Vuliius laceralum
1
1
1
3
1
1 Debilitas ...
3
1
2
1
' Ehrictas
4
1
2
J2
6
1
2
Miscellaneous -i
1
1
5
12
I
8
17
2
10
22
2
5
5
2 !
5
8 :
^
Total
104
2
210
1
239
2
282
1
140 i
96 1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
THE TROOPS AT POST'S IN THE NOKTH INTERIOR.— EAST OF THE GREAT LAKES.
115
FOURTH QUARTER.
AGGREGATE
STRENGTH.
(
1845. ; 1846. j 1847.
1848. 1849. 1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
86. 1 71.
72.
94.
141.
129.
87.
35.
33.
46.
3,304.
Cases
1
! Died. Cases. Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases
.iDied
Cases.' Died.
Cases
. Died.
1
Cases. 1 Died
Cases. Died
Cases. Died.
Cases. Died
Toal Total
cases, died.
1
1
3
1
5
2
2
S
1
40
16
IS
7
...
2
2
I
2
1
1
1
(
4
1
3
3
2
1
1
2
1
1
2
I
3
6
1
1
6
2
4
1
121
6
2
j
1
'
2
4
43
102
15
294
4
32
16
1
7
8
5
12
7
15
1
12
8
14
1
J
!
1
1
1
2
1
6
5
6
4
4
1 ,
7 ;
5
1
1
6
4
11
3
1
e
1
1
IS
8
1
1
4
4
2
1
4
"
,
5
::::::::::::
1
1
1
5
1
2
1
5
1
I
2
1
2
1
1
1
i
1
1
1
1
:
...
2
7
1
1
2
3
4
58
3
4
1
3
3
1
1
1
1
1
sa
47
12
2
101
16
1
28
54
21
2
6
5
47
8
3
6
37
79
2
i
a
1
a
1
a
2
2
1
1
:::::: :::;:i
1
5
3
•i
2
4
1
f
6
3
2
a
4
«► 1
1
1
4
1
8
7
1
1
1
1
1
1
I
a
3
1
6
.......
1
2
1
28
1
oo .'^n
61
26 ^
13-1
96 : 1
92 ;.
1 409 ' R
1
116
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 5.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
FIRST QUAHTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OP DIS-
TUS.
1,620.
1, l!i8.
1,318.
1,245.
1,118.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
CnsCB.
Died.
Cnsos
Died.
Cases
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
4 i
i
1
18
26
3
1
17
11
44
2
1 1
12
1 28
7
■E
3
6
27
5
2
2
34
4
Ft'bris iiiteniiittf ns quartana
4
4
'
2
Febris tj'phus
12
1
1
1 1
1
1
12
Varioloid
26
3
83
9
2
42
1
36
! 3
15
2
8
1
1
Biseasea of the organs
3
1
Hepatitis chronica
2
10
14
8
120
1
8
3
1
5
28
4
144
1
16
14
3
1
1
6
S9
1
1
14
44
1
155
3
8
17
1
3
1
7
40
3
111
2
12
5
3
5
5
2
2
8
i 16
3
108
4 1
14
6
1 3
1
1
1
All other diseases of this system
92
3
4
3
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
Phthisis pulnionalis
.
3
6
6
1
2
56
1
9
5
5
12
6
6
1
29
I
9
1
9
nervous system.
3
1 4
2 1
3
19
15
2
15
1
18
40
; 23
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
27
6
1
9
4
1
i 8
] 2
1 7
6
Diseases of the soroiisj
and cxhalent vessels. \
Ascites
1
All other diseases of this class
13
22
9
9
4
Diseases of the fibrous &.
Podagra
2
26
muscular structures.
Kheumaiismus, acutus et chronicus
Fistula
33
50
38
20
25
Abscesses and ulcers. . . . •
I
Phlegmon ct abscessus
Ulcus
17
10
4
16
10
:::
11
11
2
13
7
2
15
25
5
7
15
3
Ambustio
Amputalio
3
55
5
3
1
5
32
j
1
29
1
3
1
13
12
2
2
2
9
3
2
4
13
32
...
ContU'^io
23
S
2
1
1
43
3
.... i -l-l
28
4
2
2
3
2
6
19
Woundsand injuries....
Luxalio
Punitio
1
8
19
2
.
17
17
15
11
9
5
Vulnus incisnm
Vulnus punctimi
3
3
4
1
Ebrietas
13
5
3
12
5
33
20
1
2
3
4
2
1
9
15
63
21
2
Hrrmnrrhois
Miscellaneous
5
6
38
2
14
34
1
19
105
All other diseases
Total
462
2
873
16
584
5
529
3
499
3
495
2
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE REGION OF THE GREAT LAKES.
117
FIRST QUARTER.
AGGREGATE
STRENGTn.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848. 1849.
1
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
1,042
509.
87.
16.
4«.
495.
418.
353.
160.
1
153. 10,999.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases. Died.
[
Cases. Died.
Cases.| Died.
Cases.' Died.
1
Cases. Died.
Cases.
„j.j Total Total
"""• cases, died.
5
1
3
1
1
3
4
2
4
3
3
2
1
2
2
45
70
188
X
3
5
1
2
2
1
2
2
4
1
6
5
,5 1
.TB •>
3
3
9
3
1
3
2
1
1
1
1
8
2
1 1
1
21
•>
1
36
9 9
24
1
i 'i:.
1
5 2
4
4
3
1
1
4
304
30
11
3
1
13
A
3
25 1
25 1
12
1 i
7
1
4
1
4
1
2
1
1
7 I....
15 1
1
1
...
1
'.____
::::::.;;;::
1
1
4
16
3
104
1
7
9
1
10
1
1
ai
5
90
257
39
5
5
16
1 1
35
6
2
3
2
22
2
8
4
2
7
6
2
1
1
9
9
6
28 j
1
25
4
28
1
1
37
9
1,013
14 1-3
2
4
4
3
8
3
1
2
1
4
83
89
IK
1
" 1
1
1
1
1
10 i
1 1
2
4
1
5
1
1
1
.
2
1
7
4
i 48
52
9.1
2
1
5
3
1
1
3
3 ...::.
3
6
2
14
1
2 1
1
25
10
1
2
1
1
1
3
2
1
3
3
2
211
.
1
1
2
1
3
4
"T":
1
2
103
25
33
1
1
2
1
3
1
2
1
1 .
1
1
3
1
2
__
....
2
21
11
1
22
9
7 :
1
10
1
9
J2
1
13
8
293
2
I8J
1
31
12
5
.1
4
1 ,
1
1
18 :
13
17
13
7
2
6
3
13 .;::::
l.M
1
1
o
1
43
3
1
12
2
1
1
I
13
20
18
1
2
21
" 1
9
3
318 1 1
1
1
1
I
1
3
1
6
1
3
3
13
3
1
14
3
22
3
2
7
3
8
3
3
1
1
85 '
1
; i::::::
2
1
5
2
1
178 '
5
36 i
3
17 i ...
2
11
2
1
4
1
2
3
3
1
4
1
1
2
4
IS
1 .
1
1
2
1
12
i^ 1
3
1
19
1 1
3
6
1
3
5
3
43
7
41
1
1
9
1
98 ■
27
9
444 9
14
405
2
154
o
34
2S6 6
249 ' 1
176
128
1
119 1 1
100 S-tOT 44
118
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 5.— ABSTRACT OF THE rUINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Vears
SECOND QUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean sTRBNOTn
1,377.
1,460.
1,139.
1,064.
1,178.
1,100.
SrECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases. Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Coses
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
6
103
20
3
11
79
76
13
19
55
158
9
76
122
5
12
U
38
3
14
34
Fubris reinitlt-ns
10
8
2
6
4
7
18
1
En'sipelas
3
4
1
2
3
Eruptive fevers ■
Scarlatina
1
5
Cliolcrn Asiatica
Diarrhtca
183
5
94
6
1
53
2
1
68
6
1
30
10
27
2
Diseases of the organs
connected wiUi the di-'
Enteritis
1
3
2
10
42
1
73
4
10
7
1
10
33
4
287
1
1
9
12
5
94
1
10
17
2
85
1
6
1
1
14
73
3
166
1
1 19
! 26
1 2
2
1
1
All otlicr diseases of this system
3
a
113
2
14
6
9
9
10
3
tor>* system.
Pleuritis
11
2
2
15
4
5
10
4
41
1
19
7
10
1
1
6*
2
1
7
4
6
1
o
15
1
8
I
6
6
Pueuiiionia
1
10
5
Cephalalgia
5
8
Diseases of the braiu and
Epilepsia
3
! 6
2
4
2
42
r
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
Gonorrlicea
12
17
2
6
1 4
11
8
1
13
2
5
Syphilis priiiiitiva
IG
1
1
10
2
R
Syphilis consccutiva
Diseases of the serous r
and exhalent vessels. I
Ascites
1
All other diseases of this class
2
1
1
r
Pernio
1
2
47
1
Diseases ol the fibrous &
Podagra
1
59
3
18
11
3
2
39
S
1
15
11
1
nmscular structures.
Khcuinatismus, acutus el chronicus
Fistula
34
3
23
3
34
31
24
24
21
'::::•
15
15
6
17
22
5
1
18
14
8
4
A mhustio
Coiicussio cerebri
1
Contusio
10
3
1
21
34
43
34
4
28
1
1
10
14
4
4
Fractura
Wounds and injuries..., ■
1
7
23
Sul>-luxatio
13
16
10
15
5
3
Vulnuii laccraluiii
Vulnus pu)ictu[ii
:::::::::"
3
4
5
2
4
3
4
29
in?5
Vulnus sclopeticum
3
2
11
6
1
Dcbilitas
2
5
4
1
1
15
2
1
1
5
34
Ebriclas
16
2
! 1
7
1
HiTmorrhois
Miscellaneous ■
1
Morbi cutis
21
IS
44
12
42 ■
82
7
60
20
60
Total
1 "" 1
724
4
1,019
7 RftJ
7
876
5
707
1
426
1
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE REGION OF THE GREAT LAKES.
119
SECOND QUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848. 1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENGTH.
1,052.
529.
93.
15. SOB.
455.
404.
244.
175.
156.
10,949.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
1 1
Cases.l Died., Cases.
';
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total To;al
cases, died.
11
19
31
7
1
11
1
2
1
2
2
1
10
14
1
8
1
3
8
3
17
1
1
86
390
541
28
1
3
16
7
8
3
10
2
3
9 i
1
...ft.
6
1
11 '
1
2
75 !
5 1
1
1
.1 !_.._
1
23 1
10
1
1
34
4
4
. 1
1
5
1
2
1
1 1
30
1
17
1
4
30
1
1
1
1
1
19
23
3
9
3
1
5
594
45
4
7
3
3
5 .::::::!
1
2
1
2
......
1
2
1
9
17
2
20
1
1
• •
5
9
25
3
142
11
25
1
20
1
4
2
1
4
9
1
3
3
5
13
8
6
S
3
1
3
14
10
1
6
5
3
137
314
48
1,061
9
63
4
11
2
1
1
15
6
21
1
19
10
1
8
12
4
3
13
1
8
1
1
9
2
2
6
2
5
1
3
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
3
1
1
4
2
5
2
35 4
21 ! 1
3
3
1
3
1
1
3
86 !
3
1
53 2
34
29
16
168
. 8
83
34
53
2
3
1
4
3
2
...
1
2
8
1
6
1
2
2
2
3
2
3
1
2
1
3
1
.:.■;
2
3
1
3
3
1
1
....
3
3 1
39
7
4
13
9
10 '
3
10
2
4
2
5
329
8
197
148
30
S
277
18
10
107
163
19
18
9
14
90
42
16
91
I
;:;:::
11
16
4
6
1
2
20
18
20
8
16
11
3
6
6
6
1
14
1
3
5
15
1
8
25
12
1
1
8
4
1
1
6
12
1
14
2
1 1
5
3
9
1
4
7
1
7
11
3
3
1
3
13
5
3
3
13
45
2
1
S
3
4
1
1
3
3
1
2
1
I
1
1 1
1
1
1
1
12
2
1
3
3
3
3
8
8
3
S
3
1
1
3
1
2
1
I
2
7
9
1
4
10
1 !
1
52
1
8
3
18
160 1
3
12
15
543
559
217
57
i ■•
8
304
4
233
2
200
2
68
130
95
1
6,426
34
120
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Ko. 6.— AbSTIlACT OF THE PllINCirAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
THIRD aUAIlTER.
1839.
1840.
1811.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
1,427. 1,307.
865.
1,358.
1,112.
980.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died, leases. Died. Coses. Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
5! 2
10
125
116
15
13
1
5
29
31
7
23
20
128
52 1
47
90
93
Fcvcra ■
1 Febrls remitiens
104
7
48
11
2
5
41
1
14
8
Erysipelas
1
2
ErupliVf fevers
i
3
*
240
2
4
129
29
1
109
17
110
17
76
12
86
6
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
gestive system.
;
1
3
2
1
11
38
3
69
1
18
21
2
'I
3
1
1
24
74
1
70
4
17
3
3
•SO
19
s
16
4
2
1
21
25
7
141
1
7
5
1
6
5
3
9
32
2
936
2
3
1
All other diseases of this system
Diseases of the respiru-
1
tory system.
2
1
1 1
5
9
2
3
7
1
4
27
......
4
2
4
2
3
11
5
2
Diseases of the hrain and
nervous system.
1
2
3
19
2 ::::::
9
34
2
16
1
3
22
Diseases of the urinary
6
1
11
3
6
7
....
8
3
7
1
14
2
2
and genital organs.
Diseases of the serous and i
exbalcnt vessels. (
Diseases of the librous & e
muscular structures, i
All other diseases of lliis class
1
3
1
1
1
30
: Rheumatismus, acutus et chronicus
28
33
1
14
17
5
1
38
22
38
Abscesses and ulcers .....
; I'htcgnion et ahsccssus
Ulcus
2
23
9
4
1
21
30
3
::::::
18
19
1
9
9
2
1
25
1
33
1
1
6
3
1
31
1
1
10
23
22
38
1
54
2
Wounds and injuries,.., ■
2
3
23
> Sub luxatio
17
45
11
14
6
17
3
2
26
15
4
1
6
1
17
9
3
7
4
3
3
3
4
4
7
20
59
6
5
3
■4
1
1
16
49
2
3
3
3
17
81
' Ebrietas. ,
8
8
1
1
1
32
3
2
46
13
39
1
Miscellaneous
Morbi oeuli
9
39
Total:
833
9
907
S
663
2
958
2 1 672
i
2
538
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TEOOrS AT POSTS IN THE REGION OP THE GREAT LAKES.
121
THIRD aUARTEB.
AGGREGATE
STRENGTH.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848. 1849.
1850.
1851. 1852. 1853. 1854.
717.
83.
16. ; 14. 484. 1 422.
362. 187. 191. 156.
1
9,681.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases Died.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
3
2
2
.... 1
10
9
01)
2
1
48 1
7
14 1 6
469
6
6
lo 1 4
1
404
3
3
=)
,
28
5
3
•; ... 13
5
12
1
292 8
1
1
13
2
1
8
1
5
1
1
::::::.::::::::::;::;::■
s
10
8
1
4
2
Si
1
12 5
36
9
1
10
1
73
50
1
31
7
14 18
I.0I7
7 1.::::.
3
116 2
'
]
4
1
1
5
7
1
7
36
2
34
1
2
2
2
8
1
2
8
7
6
15
2
7
U
2 8
4
3
150
22
16
3 7
309 1
,
34
10
7
5
e
9
i
679
1
13 6
1
1
3
1
1
3
2
3
42
3
5
1
21
1
3
2 1
4
10 1
13
58
1
7
3
45
1
16
1 1
8
1
8
1
12
1
4
1
1
16
...
3
1
151
a
8
9
1
4
1
1
1 4
89
1
12 1
30 1
1 1
1
1
255
4
I8;i I
3
2
1
1
2
....
1
20
1
10
8
8
12 5 2
._.
2
1
1 1
7 ;
a ■
2
1
22
8
16 1
5
13
7
7
2
,; :::■■• -;
194
1
■2
1
6
2 1
285
10
3
1
21
1
1
i
s
•211
15
U
1
7
11
8
1
1
1
.....|...... ............ ......
3
9
■ ■
12
8
6
4
2
2
13
4
6
■3 !::::;:r 1
a 1
4 2
3
1
1
115
13
2
178
20
1
I
18
j
9
2
8
1
15
2
3
28
,
2
,
3
5 7
80
1
2
4
27
1 9
1 1
1
1
2
1
1 1
38
1
1 1
16
s
7
2
7 3 1
66
2
34
304
1
1
1
3
5
1
10
104
12 1
25 IS ; 10
437 2
! ' ' !
57
8 1 i 10
' 318
'
245 ' 2
1S5 ■ 135 ' 154 108 2 ' 6.125 31
S. 96-
-16
122
REPORT ON TUE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. o.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
FOURTH QUARTER.
1839.
1840. 1841. 1842.
I 1
1843.
1844.
CLASSKS OF DIS-
EASES.
1,492.
1,138. 1,073. 1,092
1,109.
1,080.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.;
1
Died. Cases.l Died.
!
Cases. Died. Cases.
Died. Cnses.
Died. Cases.
Died.
7
17
71
76
1
1
5
4
1
5
28
127
1
17
10
20
33
12
4
1
1
4
50
59
6
10
1
2
1
1 3
8
1 7
Fevers
Tcbris inlcrniitlens tertiana
1 Febris iiiterniitlons (piartana
1 Febris remittcns
3
Erysipelas
Scarlatina
1
1
1
1
1
Eruptive fevers ■
Ciiolera Asiatica
923
17
44
8
G6
21
3
18
4
9.
16
2
1
28
3
1
9
1 Dyscntcria acuta
1
. 1
gcslive system.
19
96
10
214
3
11
6
3
9
11
3
4
4
48
1
3
13
52
2
106
4
5
3
3
6
6
3
1
37
2
7
2
1
1
24
25
5
111
11
3
4
5
13
4
2
8
22
19
1
1
1
3
26
3
80
3
3
1
1
1
1
3
17
2
72
1
■
All other diseases of this system
1
1
1
1
14
2
106
3
7
2
5
14
5
Catarrhus
tory system.
2
1
4
1
2
J
o
I
All other diseases of this system
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
Neuralgia
AH other diseases of this system
1
19
19
. 1"
3
and genital organs.
1
1 Syphilis primitiva
40
5
1
8
6
S
24
2
23
14
6
8
2
5
10
6
4
2
All other diseases of this class
9
7
t Ascites
and exlialent vessels. '
1 All other diseases ot iliis class
1
1
3
Pernio
4
2
Diseases of the fibrous &
muscular siruelures.
Abscesses and ulcers . . . . ■
Rhcumatismus, acutus et chronicus. ...
48
1
18
20
1
1
1
50
4
2
5
1
47
35
1
11
35
2
30
22
26
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
13
29
5
6
12
3
17
11
2
Concussio eercin'i
1
25
2
38
3
1
27
17
1
20
Wounds and iiijuri(?s....
Luxalio
1
4
7
27
1 Sub-luxatio
11
10
11
21
7
9
2
2
11
10
2
2
1
1
11
1
, Vulnus sclopcticum
2
Debilitas
1
15
7
3
5
21
68
1
8
2
4
4
C
2
11
59
......
1
2
7
2
2
2
14
37
Ebrit'tas
^
9
3
1
1
3
34
Miscellaneous •
Morbi cutis
7 1 -
14 •
41
1
21
42
Total
1,229
11
720
5
648
6
559
3
338
1
359
'
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE REGION OF THE GREAT LAKES.
123
FOURTH QUARTER
AGr<RFn.iTB
1845.
1846. 1847. 1848.
1849. . 1850. 1851.
j
1852.
1853.
1854.
STKESOTU.
482. 85.
16. 1 403.
505.
416.
354.
186.
161.
153.
9,755.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cdses.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total Total
4
3
2
1
1
1
2
14
7
1
3
3
6
12
12
3
6
2
1
7
1
3
1
....
3
1
2
5
57
169
347
16
123
7
8
7
1
6
5
10
i 3
1
1
1
1
4
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
1 1 ' i
I
1
3
1
.. ..
t
15
1
3
70
18
5
37
6
13
2
1
17
3
4
1
7
1
1
10
1 571
6
84
8
3
3
1
1
1
5
9
1
[
2
2
7
1
............
1
11
6
13
5
11
5
6
1
5
6
2
5
2
34
6
7
1
9
106
294
35
824
11
55
40
16
40
65
24
15
• 26
173
5
92
24
411
1
4
22
1
266
4
169
164
24
2
2
252
14
6
12
65
163
10
10
3
6
74
27
IB
23
113
389
2
1
4
12
1
2
IS
21
27
4
7
2
2
3
3
9
1
1
1
2
11
1
i "
1
1
2
2
6
1
1
6
1
1
8
3
1
2
2
3
4
1
8
2
1
1
1
10
1
1
1
1
o
2
2
3
"
1
2
9
4
2
2
5
2
1
2
3
1
1
■■■;:: i
1
1
I
1
«
1
2
2
9
2
1
13
20
9
7
14
4
^ i
11
2
1
9
19
13
1
11
6
6
1 in
9
10
2
6
>•....
1
1
7
1
2
1
1
I
1
9
3
2
1
1 3
1
10
10
16
11
7
6
1
2
1
i
1
1
'
1
10
5
2
1
1
3
5
1
1
1
2
5
1
1
1
6
2
13
1
9 1
1
1
4
•
1
2
3
6
1
6
3
1
I
1
2
1
1
1
1
9
16
1
3
1
2
1
5
1
3
13
a
8
24
5
1
j 7
1
2 15
::::::r 1 1
7 1
6
1 '^
3
132
1 33
1 6
218
(
5
253
3 1 163
2 ! 165
1
119
100
98
5,139
37
I'i4
BEPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 6.— ARSTRACT OF THE PUINCH'AL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG THE
FIRST aUARTER.
1839. 1840. 1 1841.
1842. 1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
1
EASES.
363.
1
633. eaa.
473.
S32.
574.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.! Died. Cases. Dicu. ,Ca8C8.
1 ! [ 1
Died. Cases., Died. Cnses. Died.
1
Cascs.i Died.
i
\
1
34
31
9
15
33
3
1
1
5
30
5
3
1
3 ::::::
Ffvers ^
Febris interaiitteiis r|tiiirtana
1
3
3
I
1 Fi;bris typhus
1
3
i '. ;
1
1
3
i
4
3
3
•21
6
2
2
Diseases of the organs
3
1
connected with llic d\-\
Enteritis
gestivc system.
1
1
3
36
3
3
7
1
64
1
4
1
1
4
3
3
Obstipatio
1
1
18
8
1
37
3
1
3
11
I
All other diseases of this system
1
I
7
43
3
1
1
88
1
39
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
3
7
4 1
3
1 1
3
1
1
3
3
7
1
All other diseases of tliis system
'
1
1
3
1
4
7
1
3
1
9
1
3
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
Epilepsia
1
3
1
1
6
[
All otht-r diseases of this system
2
3
1 ::::::
1
1
8
5
Diseases of the urinar>'
1
1
1
1
2
All other diseases of Uiis class
1
Diseases of the serous t
and exbalent vessels. I
All other diseases of this class
1
33
Diseases of the fibrous &.
9
6
31
13
9
Podagra
niiiscuhir .stnii'tnres.
r
Abscesses and ulcers.,,. ■{
I
Rlieumnlismus, acutus et chronicus
Fistula
6
1
5
......
19
44
13
25
10
I'hlegirion et absccssus
17
4
9
5
5
1
16
3
1
13
1
1
15
3
Ulcus
2
1 1
, -
1
1
1
Contusio
6
2
34
5
13
14
1
• • .. • ^
13
3
1
,
Wounds and injuries.... ■
Punitio
3
17
37
5
4
2
5
Sub-luxatio
3
8
3
3
3
30
3
i 6
11
11
Vulnus punctiun
,
i
...
1
1
Dcbilitas
■■■;■■';:::::!
Ebrietas
5
1
5
1
3
3
3
S
3
3
I
3
3
6
5
3
3
4
11
15
8
19
15
Tola!
ti
333
247
I <>84
3
aoi
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE NORTH INTERIOR REGION.— WEST OF THE GREAT LAKES.
125
FinST QUARTER.
1845.
184G.
1847.
1848. j
1849. 1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENGTQ.
653.
197.
71.
86.
595. 552. 510. .ITa.
455.
460. 7,308.
Cases. Died.
Cases.' Died.
1
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died. '
Cases.j Died.
Cases.i Died.
Cases.!
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.i Died.
1
Total
cases.
Total
died.
3
5
11
1
2
3
7
2
4
1
1
1
1
34
111
124
7
14
14
8
2
2
5
5
8
3
3
18 '
2
3
2
1
1
2
1
2
1
''
1
1
6
1
i
j
1 1 1
4
1
1
1 1 1
13
2
14
7
26
2
2
7
7
6
116
18
4
3
1 !
....
1
1
1
4
!
i
1
.
6
1
4
1
1
13
11
7
14
70
1
12
3
1
1
2
1
12
8
1
72
13 ' 3 ' 9
1 1
67 1
6
49
1
5
1
9
8
1
' ! 1 " ! '
146
20 ' 3
26
7
53
35
21
35
ax
7 5
2
2
1
1
4
2
1
4 '■
6
49
4
1
21
9
29
25
11
10
8
• 54
1
14
5
15
3
...
3
1
2
1
1
S
3
2
1
3
1
3.
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
...
1
1
1
1
3
5
2
1
9
1
4
1
2
1
5
■
3
2
6
1
1
i 1
1
1
14
2
1
5
1
31
7
'
i '
13
165 1
7
1
5
2
31
2
27
14
M
10
1
24
" 1
238 2
2
8
2
3
6
1
20
8
17
2
18 11
6 G
1
17 '
a 1
1
197
3
1 9
j
54
1
1
IS
2
2
193
18
9
14
63
136
26
23
4
1
i
1
1
1
21
2
. i
15
1
9
2
20
3
18
1
11
-10 i a
1
2
1
1
6
2
7
1
6
1
5
3
6
6
1
1
4
S
s 1
5
4
7
3
......
3
2
1
1
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
8
6
1
1 1
1
3
2
3
"v j::::::
3
I;
3
1
3
2
1
21 i
5 1
4
' _. , ; . .
1
2
:
, 1 : 7 1
2
24
65
41
168
6
3
4
13 - -
10
27
9
1
1 s
. ...'
::..;: 1 1
10
10
1
13
4
3
1
i '
13 j 26
9
180 ' 3 71
81 1
•15
317 6 281 3 238
1 166 j
227 140
3,158
22
126
REPOUT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 6.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG THE
Ybars
SECOND QUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES,
42.1.
637.
474.
683.
555.
680.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Coses.
Died, 'cases.
1
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Febris continua communis
3
35
1
2
17
1
9
4
1
41
68
4
63
1
a
53
33
1
13
Fevers
3
I
3
1
10
2
2
Febris typhus
Erysipelas
Eruptive fevers -
1
1
1
12
3
42
20
1
n
74
5
IS
3
13
2
Diseases of the orsJinj!
connected with the di-.
gesiivc system.
2
1
1
1
2
4
12
1
16
26
3
37
2
6
3
3
3
5
1
8
17
9
19
1
53
■ All other diseases of this system
7
6
1
21
1
1
1
8
1
11
100
1
1
2
lory system.
' Pleuriti-^
2
3
1
6
■'
3
4
1
2
1
1
4
3
1
1
2
9
1
11
4
8
1
1
2
1
15
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
1
7
2
All other diseases of this system
2
1
3
4
1 i
12
3
Diseases of iho urinary
1
1
3
1
1
aud genital organs.
Syphihs consecutiva
2
1
4
1
6
Diseases of the serous and ,
eihalent vessels. J
Diseases of the fibrous St
jiiuscuhir slruolures.
Abscesses and ulcers.... ,
2
2
PodaTa
1 UhLMiiuatismusj acutus ct clironicus
12
1
3
2
2
29
27
28
14
12
I*lile<:mon ct absccssus
19
U
1
I
33
8
3
1
16
3
1
16
2
2
9
4
2
i Ambubtio
15
1
4
10
1
1
1
9
6
19
2
16
12
2
Fraetura
6
7
3
21
Wounds and injuries.... .
1
7
13
3
12
6
8
4
8
2
11
2
2
2
4
2
1
1
1
2
2
1
2
11
1
1
Debilitas
'
3
1
3
7
2
10
2
1
3
2
1
1
Miscellaneous
1
5
1
12
2
21
1
22
1
' Mnrbi oculi
14
1
18
21
26
30
20
174
2 410 1 3
272
466 4
255
282
3
AMONG THK TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE NORTH INTERIOR REGION.— WEST OF THE GREAT LAKES.
127
SECOND aUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
6TREHUTH.
520.
191.
153.
85.
422.
466.
595.
370.
3il.
403.
6,970.
Cases.
Died.
Coses.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Total Toinl
cases, died.
3
5
18
4
24
22
5
4
19
2
19
5
9
16
2
10
8
4
8
25
11
3
5
5
4
201 '
317 ,
7 '
1
1
1
2
2
2
1
2
1
6 1
8 1
1
1
2
2 \
1
1
63
9
1
I
7
369
60
2
23
1
1
1
42
9
3
21
3
1
13
3
10
2
5
15
10
1
1
I
3
1
8
5
102
178
20
475
9
47
33
11
51
27
1
3
10
1
14
26
5
49
1
2
6
1
3
6
9
1
9
1
2
5
5
3
24
1
4
1
12
16
7
8
4
13
1
5
15
4
1
5
3
32
1
3
1
1
5
4
6
74
19
3
3
1
1
23
2
4
4
9
5
1
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
4
3
1
4
1
4
1
1
1
3
1
1
1
2
10 '::::::
11 1
2
1
7
1
9
5
1
1
2
1
1
i
1
1
1
2
1
9
3
30
9
2
1
■
1
1
2
1
1
5 , 1
5
1
1
42
1
S91
o
10
8
1
3
3
7
5
27
38
19
4
« !
6
3
1
1
2
1
22
1
1
1
28
14
2
24
12
23
8
12
6
17
182 I
1
1
1
u i::::::
3 1
253 •
9 '
14
15
1
9
5
16
21
13
2
21
20
...
..
3
9
69
112
14
21
So
8
69
21
8
9A
5
3
2
2
1
2
2
1
::::::i I
4
9
1
3
4
11
6
2
6
6
2
4
2
1
1
1
9
6
2
a
2
,
3
1
1
2
1
3
1
1
1
1
4
1
1
\
6
1
2
2
7
3
9
9
1
11
2
6
4
^ !
1
1
1
1
5
3
1
1
1
17
16
28
1
2
13
\
1
2
4
3
5
1
18
1
1^ ::::::
20 1
283 , 2
17
7
17
1 7
17
22
12
190
103
141
3 ; 47
239
4
314
1
379
212
1
155
1S8
3,839 i 21
128
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 6.— AliSTIiACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES ANU DEATHS OCCUEliING AMONG THE
Years i
THIRD aUAKTEll.
1839. 1840.
1841.
1842. 1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
KASLId.
S66. 684.
687.
736. 604.
523.
SPECIFIC DISE.ASE3.
Cases. Died. Coses.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
1
Died. Coses. Died. Coses
1
Died.
13
2
11
2
59
67
1
1 34
83
I 97
71
19
2
24
H7
16
45
Fevers
Febrisinlerniitlcns quartana
17
1
^ i
1
9
31
9
1
1
1
1
1
1
... j .. .
33
12
96
112
1
79
24
32
1
78
21
12
5
24
11
Diseases of tin; orgnns
cormccieti with ilic di-'
::::::i:::::'
5
1
geslivc system.
1
38
4
28
1
16
14 '
10
27
1
1 11
1
7
15
:;;:::! :
1 All other diseases of this system
18
1
12
19
1
2
1
3
7
149 23
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
1
1
3
a
2
6
3
1
1
1
2
1
1
3
3
S
7
1
1
1
r
i Ce|>lialal"ia '
7 B
1
1
Diseases or the hraiii and
3
nervous system.
All niher diseases of this system
5
1
4
13
4
5
1
1 -
24
9 i
3
1
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
1
1
1 '
1
1
1
1
7
Diseases of tlie serous t
and exhalent vessels. (
Diseases of the fibrous &. j
muscular structures.
5
3 1 3
Ascites
Alt other disc:L«es ot this class
Pernio
1
1
1
....
3
1
1
Rheuntatismus, acutus et chronicus
19
34
13
3
9
2
4
1
22
1
1
1
7
24
36
21
7
Abscesses and ulcers.... J
Phlegmon ct absccssus
i Ulcus .
18
25
4
2
28
1
14
6
2
17
1
1
1
9
2
2
1 10
1 4
2
!S!
16
4
11
1
3
Wounds and injuries....
5
32
10
21
5
15
9 ' 3
18 9
2
1
1
1
3
1
3
3
4
7
1
13
3
2
I
9
1
2
1
2
1
25
3
1
1
4
1
:::::: i
! 3
' 3
6
1
2
2
9
Hernia
1
2
16 •
Miscellaneous •{
4
1.5
I-'
29
22
15
7
950
1
Tunl
:t7-»
I 'ot\
1
491
4 1 410
2 ' 4Rn
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE NORTH INTERIOR REGION.— WEST OF THE GREAT L.^KES.
129
THIRD QUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRE.VGTH.
317.
200.
93.
290.
511.
552.
484.
217.
423.
419.
7,306.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases,
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total
cases.
Toml
died.
15
37
20
1
8
1
30
11
8
2
5
35
5
1
25
4
3
9
6
61
556
411
6
178
3
4
1
63
21
13
13
7
14
1
5
3
2
1
9
3
2
18
2
3
5
1
4
7
3
1
1
2
110
33
1
30
127
7
5
2
2
1
59
1
33
974
247
10
5
7
3
162
38
419
7
21
6
23
59
23
31
3
31
73
3
19
3
50
16
103
115
11
1
36
4
18
5
3
3
3
1
1
2
1
3
7
2
11
17
3
2
44
16
12
13
13
1
3
21
6
6
9
2
2
21
27
24
13
11
3
6
1
1
6
13
7
I
7
2
3
1
40
13
1
3
5
1
3
1
2
10
2
1
3
3
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
3
5
1
1
2
3
2
7
7
3
2
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
2
1
1
2
1
1
3
4
1
4
2
4
5
1
1
1
2
2
3
3
9
9
39
1
8
2
1
370
3
373
49
15
3
336
18
13
4
76
186
14
38
19
23
91
36
19
23
108
6
359
3
5
1
3
2
,,
2
2
1
3
1
2
1
21
9
4
'
14
1
21
29
So
5
6
1
13
2
1
2
6
2
4
24
6
19
4
21
10
2
20
3
1
27
5
30
3
1
13
1
13
1
I
10
11
3
5
31
2
1
30
2
7
1
13
1
4
3
7
4
2
1
2
2
1
14
1
4
13
3
6
5
9
3
2
7
14
1
3
1
1
1
6
7
3
4
4
1
3
2
5
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
13
3
2
4
17
3
4
2
2
2
1
1
6
1
1
1
2
4
3
9
2
2
1
2
2
13
4
15
3
1
1
11
1
30
1
10"
1
2
1
1
1
4
1
3
5
1
2
1
9
1
13
ID
12
10
9
28
9
33
214
1
202
89
1
277
3m
3
416
3
429
2
358
2 1 183
330
3
S.430 1 25
S. 96-
-17
130
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MOETALITT
No. 6.— ABSTIUCT OP THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCUERING AMONG THE
Years
FOURTH aUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
639.
708.
405.
652.
579.
652.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
3
9
69
1
15
65
106
1
2
4
4
1
50
56
2
15
22
25
4
Fevers
3
1
3
5
1
1
Febris tvpbus
Er>-sipelas
Rubeola
4
1
Scarlatina
r
Cholera Asiatica
Diarrlioca ,
10
4
9
4
19
1
12
2
4
4
16
7
1
1
Disease»« of the or^ns
1 Enteritis
connected with Uie di-
1
2
1
25
4
43
1
7
3
1
1
gestive system.
Hepatitis chronica
13
15
4
40
4
8
3
40
5
4
All other diseases of this system
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
20
2
87
1
3
5
Catarrhus
39
1
48
1
2
Diseases of ihe respira-
....
1
1
2
4
4
2
1
3
9
2
1
3
5
1 Pneumonia
1
4
1
1
5
4
2
1
1
11
2
4
3
2
1
1
Delirium tremens
Dlseases of the brain and
Epilepsia
4
nervous system.
Neuralgia
1
1
6
1
1
7
All other diseases of this system
, Gonorrhosa
2
9
, Striclura urethra?
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
1
1
5
1
3
17
4
Diseases of the serous r
Ascites
1
3
Pernio
3
3
7
15
1
Diseases of the fibrous 8c
muscular structures.
I
f
Rhcumatismus, acutus et chronicus
12
1
8
8
4
20
1
5
43
10
35
10
10
18
9
5
21
2
17
9
2
22
1
16
4
2
22
1
10
2
9
5
[
Ulcus
Contusio
12
10
2
1
5
Puniiio
2
10
38
VVuuiids and injuries,,,. '
9
8
5
17
7
7
5
11
1
Vulnus incisum
28
Vulnus laceratum
3
3
1
1
2
4
3
Dcbilitas
1
7
1
3
2
12
2
2
1
3
2
1
1
2
1
12
1
5
1
4
4
6
1
7
L
16
20
24
15
13
Total
260
390
S
401
4
337
273
222
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE NORTHERN DIVISION.
TKOOPS AT POSTS IN THE NOKTH INTERIOR REGION.— WEST OF THE GREAT LAKES.
131
FOURTH aUARTEE.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENOTB.
270.
200.
87.
232.
573.
636.
384.
318.
452.
548.
7,335.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
[7ases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total 1 Total
cases, died.
1
49
69
2
12
1
29
38
2
1
2
3
10
3
1
2
7
12
2
4
1
1
1
4
1
3
2
34
309
411
8
36
1
7
3
10
23
7
16
12
1
2
1
::::::;:::::!
1
2
1
:::::: ;.;:.i
1
1
12
12
4
25
1
5
84
17
36
13
33
1
43
3
1
88
1
429
1
12 ^
1
I
I
4
5
93
165
30
628
7
36
25
12
38
21
14
9
14
61
3
7
8
45
1
1
1
3
3
1
1
7
1
6
1
2
3
10
17
2
69
1
8
1
S
2
1
1
1
19
4
3
50
6
9
11
22
............
10
14
10
39
1
4
7
1
14
20
4
42
56
34
1
2
1
2
1
I
1
1
2
8
1
5
4
1
4
■■>••■
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
1
5
1
1
3
•
1
I
2
2
1
6
1
2
2
2
3
3
> ••■•
5
2
1
1
3
1
6
1
1
1
3
1
1
4
1
i
2
3
1
75
1
259
4
244
88
24
275
1
::::::;:::::
1
5
8
2
1
22
1
18
13
3
46
1
9
9
8
4
3
1
17
37
12
21
1
24
2
13
29
1
10
1
27
10
1
18
21
5
1
4
1
8
1
1
10
3
21
7
4
27
1
16
8
1
13
1
5
5
1
23
1
3
20 1
1
1
1
2
88
178
21
22
9
23
88
32
8
17
63
13
225
1
4
3
1
1
2
1
1
11
13
2
9
2
2
15
9
1
4
7
5
10
9
23
3
7
7
1
2
7
11
4
3
7
5
2
5
3
7
1
1
*
1
10
10
4
2
2
2
1
2
5
2
1
11
1
2
3
1
1
1
11
3
1
1
2
'
2
1
2
2
2
7
4
2
1
10
1
28
1
3
1
2
1
12
3
8
11
1
3
30
IS
13
3
247
160
2
32
124
433
3
379
1
213
330 !
1
178
341
1
4,320
13
MIDDLE DIVISION.
MIDDLE ATLANTIC EEGION.
This region includes that portion of the Atlantic coast which lies between the 35th and 40th
degrees of north latitude, comprising not only those stations which are immediately contiguous
to the ocean, but those also which are situated upon the bays and rivers not sufficiently removed
from the sea to have decidedly an inland climate.
This class embraces five military stations proper, and two arsenals — one at Frankford, the
other at Washington.
The military stations are Forts Mifflin, McHenry, Severn, Washington^ and Monroe.
FRANKFORD ARSENAL
Is on Frankford creek, five miles in a northeastly direction from the State-House at Phila-
delphia, and one-fourth of a mile from the west bank of the river Delaware.
WASHINGTON ARSENAL
Is on Greenleaf's Point, at the junction of the Anacostia with the Potomac river, one mile
and a half south of the Capitol, in Washington. Its position is not a healthy one, having low
and marshy grounds in its immediate vicinity, which, with the subsidence of the rivers in sum-
mer, exposing more or less of their beds and banks to the sun, prove fruitful sources of inter-
mittent and remittent fevers. The number of enlisted men stationed here rarely exceeds four-
teen, the larger portion of the work being performed by artisans employed by the month.
FORT MIFFLIN
Is located on a low island in the Delaware river, five miles below Philadelphia. No special
report of its topography can be found on the files of the Medical Bureau.
FORT M'HENRT,
Situated on a peninsula, bounded on the one side by the Patapsco river, and on the other by
the harbor of Baltimore, is about three miles distant from tlie centre of the city, in a southerly
direction. It occupies the whole of the extremity of the peninsula, covering an area of 55 or
60 acres ; the fort is elevated about 36 feet above the level of the river, when at high-water
mark ; and as this elevation has a gradual slope in every direction, the drainage is naturally
good.
The surrounding country is rather low and level, with occasional undulations ; but there are
no mountains or very high lands in the vicinity. The soil is mostly argillaceous and silicious.
During the summer, the prevailing winds vary from south to east, while those of the winter
134 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
are mostly northwest. When Mowing from the south, the current of air traverses some low
land called Romney marsh, on the opposite side of the Patapsco ; hut the distance of this marsh
from the fort is upwards of a luile.
The annual quantity of rain, on an average of 20 years, is 42 inches.
FORT SEVERN.
This post is situated on Severn river, on a point of hind which makes out IVom the city of
Annapolis. It is very little elevated ahove the level of Chesapeake hay. The river is here
ahout 800 yards wide. There are no marshes in the immediate vicinity. The post was aban-
doned on the 3d of September, 1845, being on that day turned over to the navy for a naval
academy.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT WASHINGTON. "
By Assistant Surgeon Lewis A. Edwards: 1852.
Fort Washington, Maryland, in latitude 38° 41', and longitude 76° 58', is situated on a high
ridge of land, running nearly parallel with the Potomac river, and terminating soutliwardly in
a bluff point, in the angle formed between the river and Piscataway creek. Immediately in rear
of the fort (S.E.) is a deep ravine, about 300 feet wide at the top, its sides sloping rather preci-
pitously, about 80 feet in depth. At the bottom there is a level plain of about 70 feet in width,
extending the whole length; about 50 yards of this bottom, adjoining the creek, is marshy, and
covered with a growth of the swamp-willow. A portion of the valley is under cultivation ;
the remainder is used as a pasturage. The western slope is thickly covered with a growth of
the papaw tree, and an underbrush of dwarf-sunflower and pokeherry. The eastern side, as also
the crown of the hill (opposite the fort), is covered with a flourishing young forest. At the
foot of this slope runs a small stream, on a sandy bed. West and northwest of the fort runs
the Potomac; southwardly is Piscataway creek, which extends up, as an arm of the river, about
two miles, at an average width of 800 yards. The water of tlie creek is very shoal, deposits
probably being made year by year. In times past, schooners of 20 to 30 tons could ascend,
where, now, the common "long boat" cannot reach. The river is about 1,300 yards in width.
The tide has a variation of 3i or 4 feet. Tlie shores of the river and creek are gently sloping ;
the river having a beach of well washed gravel and sand, while that of the creek has a deposit
of clay and marl from its banks, and the mud or sediment of the river.
The common river-grass grows abundantly on both shores, the low tides leaving it above the
surface of the water.
The men's barracks and a set of officers' quarters are at either end of the parade-ground,
which is of fine gravel, and 115 feet above high-water mark. The commanding officer's
quarters are situated on the same ridge as the fort, about 600 feet north, a considerable depres-
sion intervening, in which the hospital is located, about equidistant from the two points above
mentioned, and 80 yards from the river. This ridge is composed of layers of clay, gravel, and
marl. Many fossils are found in the vicinity of the marl-beds, opening on the river banks, and
in the small rivulet running through the ravine in the rear. A variety of forest-trees are found
here, as follows, viz :
White oak, red oak, black oak, Spanish oak, wild cherry, white and red hickory, white and
sugar maple, white and black gum, white and red ash, hackberry, red cedar, red and black
haw, chinquepin, white and black walnut, white and yellow poplar, beech, chestnut, chestnut
oak, locu-st, white and red elm, dogwood, tulip popliir, pajiaw, pines (two or three varieties), red
and paper mulberry, catalpa, slippery elm, sugar nut, red bud, sassafras, weeping willow, syca-
more, persimmon, holly, yellow willow, Lombardy poplar, bayberry, common willow.
Among the shrubs, wild and cultivated, may be enumerated the following, viz :
Alder, sarsaparilla, pokeherry, Jamestown weed, i^lantain, catmint, horse and garden mint.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
135
Indian turnip, dog fennel, wild pepper-grass, peppermint, winter green or partridge berry,
liverwort, wild spice, nettle, Virginia snake-root, dewberry, blackberry, life everlasting, hore-
hound, pennyroyal, horse-radish, garlic, calamus, wormwood, boneset, hops, wild cress, blood-
root, swamp lily, prickly ash, ivy and box-wood, mullen, burdock, nightshade, yarrow, sagei
balm, sumach.
As I am not acquainted with the botanical names of all the trees and plants, I prefer to give
such as are commonly known and recognised through the neighborhood.
I am not familiar enough with the fauna of this district to give any details.
The meteorological tables, embracing a period of about 14 months, are too meagre to furnish
any deductions in reference to climate. I may state, however, that the prevailing winds appear
to be from the southward, and that the average quantity of rain, during this period, has been
about two inches per month.
In past years it was the custom to form summer encampments for the troops, in the highlands
either of Virginia or Maryland, from about the middle of July till the beginning of October.
During the last four years, the troops remained at the fort throughout the summer. On com-
paring the statistics of diseases for that period, with those for corresponding quarters as found
in the tables published by the Department in 18-40, we find a decrease in the ratio of all
diseases.
Intermittent fever still prevails over all other disorders ; but, taking into consideration the
fact that, 20 years ago, the troops were absent from the post nearly the whole of the 3d quarter,
it would appear that it had very much decreased vo. frequency . As regards severity, I can form
no comparison, as in the printed reports no particular mention is made of the grade this form of
fever assumed. The bare circumstance, however, of the troops leaving the fort every summer,
shows that it was not judicious that they should be exposed to the attacks of,this fever. Kelying
on the printed reports as an index of the prevalence of this affection in former times, my experi-
ence of the last year justifies me in asserting that it is very much modified. I believe that in-
termittent fever is not only less frequent in the neighborhood than formerly, but that it bears a
milder form. In these opinions I am sustained by the experience of persons residing on either
shore of the Potomac. The proprietor of Mount Vernon has frequently assured me that within
a few years past — eight or ten — the affection has appeared with less frequency and severity
among his own family, and the negroes belonging to the estate. I have found the disorder
readily disappear on the exhibition of quinine, in moderately large doses — from 12 to 20 grains
given at a single dose, from eight to fourteen hours before the expected paroxysm. In one case,
the morbific agent seemed to lurk in the system, suddenly showing itself at very irregular
periods, after there was every reason to suppose it had fled before the potent spell of cinchona
and calomel. Liquor: potass: arsenit: had the effect of quenching this intermittent flame for a
period of two or three successive months, when again it would burst forth. This patient was a
laundress, who occupied one of the casemates (ever unfit places for persons to inhabit), and was
of a peculiarly bilious temperament. Remittent fever has certainly diminished. I subjoin a table
showing the relative frequency of intermittent and remittent fevers, at periods of about 20 years
interval. The records for the fourth quarters, being imperfect, are omitted :
Quarters --- -
FIRST.
SECOJTD.
THIRD.
Total.
Years -
1829.
1830.
1831.
1831.
1832.
1833.
1834.
1830.
1832.
1833.
50
1
58
1
63
11
171
13
59
8
5
48 61
57
10
1
225
31
10
48
10
5
47
15
56
18
1
151
43
6
547
Intermittent fever
5
2
8
2
87
16
\""
186
BEPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
FIRST.
SECOND.
TUIUD
Total.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1S52.
1849.
1850.
1851.
Mean strength
Intermittent fever..
50
4
62
4
56
4
168
12
G6
3
46
15
61
2
52
3
225
23
50
8
7
44
9
1
56
5
4
150
22
12
543
57
12
I am unable to arrive at any satisfactory conclusion as to the cause of the diminution of
malarial fever in this vicinity. The lands have always been as much cultivated ; the duck-weed,
or river-grass, has not been less abundant, or less exposed to the action of the atmosphere and
sun by the low tides, than formerly. More care has not, probably, been bestowed by the com-
mand or the neighbors upon themselves, or those connected with them, than iornierly. It cannot
be said that those exposed to the malaria have become acclimated, for two sets of troops have
formed the garrison within the period embraced in the tables, and new families have settled in
the vicinity. There may be epochs of visitation of these fevers in greater or less intensity ; or,
the increase of other disorders — antagonistic they may be considered — may have tended to break
up this almost monopolizing influence. But there are no grounds for adopting either sugges-
tion as an explanation; the facts will not sustain any such conclusion.
The remaining diseases require no special notice as to etiology or frequency, they are such
as ordinarily occur to individuals in like numbers and circumstances. In the diet and water
we can find no cause of disease. The former has been that of the regular ration and common
garden vegetables, and the water used collected from slate roofs into cisterns of mason-work.
There were 4 deaths during the last four years : one of hamietemcsis, one of varioloid (in a
scrofulous subject), one of dropsy, and one of drunkenness and subsequent exposure to cold. The
aggregate mean strength is 181, and the annual ratio of mortality is about 2/„-per cent.
In the etiology of disease in general, the following table will show the relative influence of
seasons :
Seasons.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Ratio per 1,000 of
mean atrcngth
treated quarterly.
Three first quarters
Four sccend quarters
Three third quarters
168
225
150
41
71
69
244
315
460
Annual ratio. - - - - -
181
181
1,000
Once only in twelve months, therefore, Avas each man reported sick.
I have not been able to procure any statistics in relation to the health of the neighboring
country. I may state, however, that, beyond the first range of hills bordering on the river,
intermittent and remittent fevers are not common; but bilious fever is more jirevalent. Dysen-
tery and diarrhoea are general during the summer months, and pneumonia and catarrh during
the winter and spring.
In concluding this report, I may be permitted to state that I found very little material to
work upon. I have employed it in the best manner that suggested itself to me.
AMONa THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION. 137
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FOET MONROE.
By Surgeon Henry A. Stinnecke : 1852.
The geogiai)liical position of this post properly pertains to the middle region of the United
States, being in lat. 37° 2' north, long. 76° 12' west. It occupies the extremity of a level sandy
beach, known as Old Point Comfort, Virginia — a point of land forming the terminus of the
western shore of the Chesapeake bay.
The most prominent physical features it presents are its watery environs, being encompassed
on every side (with the single exception of a narrow strip of sand-beacli on the north) by water,
viz: on the northeast, east, and southeast, by the waters of the Chesapeake bay; on the south
and southwest, by those of Hampton Roads ; and on the north and northwest, by Mill creek,
an inlet of Hami)ton Roads.
Bordering upon Mill creek, on the north and northwest, and in pretty close proximity to the
fort, tolerably extensive margins of salt-water marsh prevail. These, however, from their
two-fold character of tidal and salt-water marsh, are innocuous as respects any deleterious
malarial influence.
A barren sandy plain, extremely limited on tlie west and southwest, narrow, but stretching
out to a considerable distance on the north to form the peninsula, on the extremity of whicli
the defences are built, constitutes mainly the terrestrial surface presented to view.
The geological formation of this peninsula is that of ocean sand resting ujjon clay.
The general aspect of the country, both proximate and distant, is uniformly low and flat.
The very limited extent of barren sandy ground, and the consequent almost entire absence of
soil immediately around the fort, are necessarily productive of a circumscribed vegetation in
the shape of trees, shrubs, plants, or grapes.
In scattered and limited spots of soil (and this mostly of artificial formation), among the
few observable products of the vegetable world, may be seen the dandelion {leontadon taraxi-
cum), the santonicum (artemisia santonicum). and the wild garlic {allium sativum.')
Within the enclosure of the work, and growing sparsely on the grounds immediately con-
tiguous to it, the live-oak, in its evergreen foliage, is quite conspicuous ; having been here re-
tained and preserved, for purposes of ornament, in the original clearing of the grounds.
What renders the presence of this tree (the live-oak) here more particularly worthy of notice,
is the fact, that this point is the extreme'northern limit of the southern Atlantic coast at which
it is found to thrive, or found at all.
In the neighboring forests and woodlands (distant from two to four miles), the usual varie-
ties of native trees, shrubs, and plants, pertaining to the middle regions of the United States,
are met with, viz: the pine {j^inus pahmtris) , v^Anch is the predominant tree of the country ;
the oak, in its different common species, (quercus alba, Q. rubra, Q. nigra); the gum, cedar,
walnut, locust, chestnut, and hickory (in small quantities) are associated.
In some localities the association of tliose various trees is in tolerably fair proportions ; while
in others, the oak, the gum, and cedar are in nearly equal prevalence with that of the pine.
In these woodlands and forests, and on their borders, interspersed in moderate profusion,
grow also the dogwood (cornus Jiorida), the crab-apple, and the common yellow jasmine,
whicli, with their gay blossoms and delightful fragrance, lend additional charms to the attrac-
tive beauties of vernal scenery.
Clim.\te. — The geographical locality of Old Point Comfort, Virginia, intermediate between
those relative divisions of the United States recognized as having climates positively northern
and southern in their characters, would naturally denote the climate of this position to be that
of an intermediate, mild, or temperate one; and such the leading meteorological phenomena
of the different seasons impress upon it.
The winters are open and mild, but seldom accompanied with such depressions of tempera-
ture as give "rise to snow. The same general condition of atmosphere (excepting depressed
s. 96 18
138 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
temperature), terminating in a fall of snow a degree and a hall', two, or three degrees north
of this, proves here only prodnctivc of rain.
The fruits in cultivation also evidence its mild and intermediate qualities of climate ; for
while the fig and grape find the heat adapted to their wants, the apple, pear, and cherry thrive
well in a congenial atmosi)here; though of these different and opposite classes of fruits, none,
we think, ever here attain that perfection they are susceptible of in closer affinity with their
natural requirements of climate.
In connexion with this subject, climate, we would observe that the proximity of this particu-
lar position to the ocean, its direct communication therewith by an unobstructed, expansive
watery surface, its little altitude above the level of the sea, its encompassment by water, the
refrigerating effects of (quite constant) winds, are causes operating to impress uiJon its atmo-
sphere such a])preciable modifications as to render it rather distinctive in character from that
of more internal and less exposed localities near at hand.
The most obvious of these aerial modifications are deemed to be a greater amount of humid-
ity, a perceptible decrease of temperature, and a low state of electric tension.
The existence of this altered or modified condition of local atmosphere is distinctly visible in
its checking the advances of spring, by retarding the action of all physical agencies ; in the
development and growth of vegetation, when compared with that of surroimding districts; in
the rapid and large accumulation of mould on all articles susceptible of imbibing moisture ; in
weakening and relaxing the animal tissues; and in exalting the impressibility of the entire
system. In a practical point of view, professionally considered, the most important conse-
quences of these peculiarities of air, are the tendencies (noticed) to afi'ect the animal tissues —
tendencies manifested in the frequent induction (and obstinacy when induced) of certain of the
profluvia, such as Icucorrhoea and menorrhagia.
Similar pathological conditions, and referrible to like causes (hinuid air), are, we believe,
noticed as pertaining to the coast of Holland. Leucorrhcea and menorrhagia, therefore,
together with a portion of the rheumatic cases, being here so apparently dependent ujjou local
influences, may be correctly placed under the head of incidental or local diseases.
But the most active properties, and consequent physiological impressions connected with, and
dependent upon, the atmosphere of this locality, must be referred to its constituents, as a
marine air. The potent influences of the air of the ocean are more fully recognized than defi-
nitely understood. Its efl'ects and operation upon the system are distinctlj^ evinced by imparting
an increase of activity to all functional action ; indeed, exalting the organic life and secerning
processes of the entire glandular apparatus of the animal economy. We have long entertained
the opinion, and accordingly have long been in the habit of ascribing these active properties of
sea air to the chemical princijiles of iodine and bromine contained therein.
These principles are recognized as constituents of ocean water, in the form of iodide and
bromide, of soda and magnesia. The presence of iodine or bromine to the air of the ocean
may not be susceptible of proof by any endometrical process, precisely as the miasmata of
marshes and the effluvia of infected places are insusceptible of demonstration. Yet, notwith-
standing this inability of chemical analysis to detect their presence, we conceive that through
the process of evaporation, constantly in progress at the ocean's surface, these chemical princi-
ples, iodine and bromine, are taken up, and thus become constituents of the ocean air.
The efiicacy of a marine atmosphere as an alterative, is, we think, but imperfectly appre-
ciated.
In cases of glandular obstruction, interrupted and deranged functional action, in old and
long-standing cases of dyspepsia (invariably acccompanied with, and dependent upon, such
impeded and altered vital action) ; in many cases of uterine functional disorder, too, frequently
rendering this organ prolific, when otherwise torpid and barren as regards its special function
[[conception), we believe a marine air to be, in point of potent alterative properties, quite equa
to any one of thin class of therajieutic agents.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION. 139
"With this opinion we wouhl couple the intimation that important errors prevail respecting
the length of time requisite, by its employment, to secure the remedial advantages desired.
No one, it is presumed, would direct the use of iodide of ijotash or cod-liver oil (to which, in
alterative properties, the sea air is somewhat analogous) as an alterative, and expect to ob-
tain permanent salutary impressions in the course of a week, ten days, or a fortnight. Yet,
such are the transitory periods for which most invalids place themselves under the influence of
a sea air.
These limited periods of time are entirely too short for effecting anything like a permanent
beneficial impression. It is true, they are long enough for favorable effects, but only such as
are so wholly evanescent and transitory in character as to pass away with the passing away of
the individual from the scene and circumstances imparting them.
For a permanent result, marked and definite in its character, periods of from six weeks to six
months should be employed in most cases of chronic ailment for which a marine air may be
deemed Suitable.
As allied to this subject of sea air, we would here allude to that unpleasant affection known
as sea-sickness ; our purpose being to offer the opinion, that in most of the aggravated and pro-
tracted cases of this peculiar abnormal state of system, they are far less (in accordance with
popular belief) dependent upon the unsteady motion of the vessel, than upon impressions made
on the peripheral nerves of the ganglionic system distributed to the stomach and alimentary
tract.
And we would assign as a source or cause of these impressions, such peculiar properties of the
sea air as those given to it, and already noticed, viz: the iodide and bromide of soda and mag-
nesia. The rationale of their mode of operation is, we conceive, readily obtained by the bare
statement that these constituents of the ocean air are, by the process of respiration, taken in
and imparted to the blood, and, through this channel, to the ultimate filaments of the ganglionic
nerves ; or, in other words, the delicate special sentient organism of the stomach and bowels
receives the impressions productive of the peculiar morbid effect.
In elucidation of our proposition, we would refer to the operation of certain poisons, which,
when introduced into the alimentary canal, affect life, in consequence of the direct nervous con-
nexion subsisting between the gastric and enteric mucous surfaces and the common sensorium.
Yet the same poisons, taken in by inhalation, produce their effects exclusively through the
medium of the circulation.
Prevailing Diseases of the Post. — The abnormal states of system most frequently falling
under professional attention at this post, deviate but little from the various ordinary diseases
incident to the middle States.
In type, character, and prevalency, in common with the same class of complaints elsewhere,
they are found so associated with, and dependent upon season, as properly to require a general
classification or division into that of summer and winter diseases.
The nervous, cutaneous, and intestinal-mucous tissues, more than any other portions of tlie
animal economy, during the hot months of summer, become the seat of such morbid action as
is productive of disease.
In accordance with the severity of impression (eitlier sedative or hyperajmic) made, the por-
tion of alimentary tract concerned, the implication of particular tissues- — such as the mucous, sub- ■
mucous, cellular, and muscular tissues — together with the accompaniment of more or less inter-
rupted and embarrassed hepatic function, the hot months of summer induce the common
pathological states known and embraced under the terms "gastric irritability," "biliary
derangement/' "dysentery," "diarrhoea," "cholera," and "cholera infantum."
Dysentery. — The remote or exciting causes of this disease are now pretty well understood to
be heat and vicissitudes of temperature.
The pathology of dysentery may be summed up in the brief statement, that it consists in a
140 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
loss of the equilibrium of the healthy innervation and vital function existing between tlie skin,
large intestines, and liver. The more immediate morbid effects are seen in a suppressed per-
spiration, engorgement of the portal and hepatic circulation, with the consequent derangement
and interruption of the biliary secretion; engorgement and excessive irritaliility (amounting in
some cases to subacute inflammatory action) of the entire tissues (especially the mucous) of the
large intestines, particularly the descending colon and rectum.
The })rincii)les lor the guidance of our treatment, based upon this pathology, must necessarily
be the restoration of the lost equilibrium of innervation and circulation of the skin and internal
membranous and solid viscera, together with the re-establishment of the perspiratory function
and biliary secretion.
These desirable purposes are in almost every case readily accomplished by the appropriate
combination of such medicines as meet and gradually fulfil the different wants: that is, mercury,
to act upon the secretions of the liver ; ipecacuanha, to restore the functions of the skin ; and
opium, to allay the inordinate action, pam, and irritability of the implicated bowels. •
Our usual prescription, therefore, consists of a ])ill of the above medicines, varying in its
proportions of each, and varying, also, in intervals of administration, according to the severity
of the disease, the age, temperament, and constitutional vigor of the patient, viz : Calomel,
grains |, f, 1, or 1^ ; opium, grains ^, f, |, or 1 ; ipecac:, grains ^, J, or 1; to be given
suitably with the requirements of each particular case, at intervals of four, five, and six hours.
The employment of these remedies for eighteen, twenty-four, or thirty-six hours, is ordinarily
attended with an abatement of the abdominal irritation, pain, and tenesmus ; their further
use is then temporarily suspended, and a half-ounce or ounce of oleum ricini is given as an
aperient, for the purpose of unloading the bowels and facilitating the expulsion of morbid
secretions.
This object eflected, the previous prescription (the mercurial, anodyne, and diaphoretic pill)
is resumed.
Should the disease not be relieved, the continuance of this treatment is not checked until
some slight mercurial impression shows itself. Upon the occurrence of this, the sub: mur:
hydrargyri is dispensed with, as a constituent of the pill ; and a like, or a little increased quan-
tity of pulvis camphorre is substituted ; and, with this change, the remedies are continued.
The adjuvants brought to the aid of this medicinal treatment embrace but little more than
keeping the patient ibr the first day or two on warm barley-water, tea, toast, boiled rice, and
a small allowance of light animal broth. After which, if nothing unfavorable forbids it, an
increased quantity of animal broth is permitted.
Diarrhcea. — This complaint, in respect to its remote causes, physiological interruptions
concerned, and ultimate sickness incurred, bears so strong a resemblance to dysentery as to
require but a concise notice of the partial pathological differences distinguishing it from the
latter disease.
In diarrhoaa, as in dysentery, the depressed action and checked function of skin occurs ; the
obstructed portal and hepatic circulation and suppressed biliary secretion are also the same.
But here the resemblance ceases ; and the chief distinction presents itself in the intestinum
tenue ; the jejunum and ileon being the seat of the most prominent disturbance rather than
(as in dysentery) the colon and rectum.
The diverse organic structure and function, and greater extent of surface of the small intes-
tines—the portion of alimentary tract concerned in diarrhoea — could not, in resulting effects from
the same remote causes, fail to originate such different disorder as to furnish the usual line of
demarcation laid down by authors between diarrhcca and dysentery, that is, the thin watery
ftecal dejections of the former, while they consist chiefly of mucus or blood in the latter.
From the close pathological resemblance and remedial indications in the two diseases, our
therapeutic means in diarrhoea vary but little from those already given for the treatment of
dysentery. In all the severer cases of diarrhoea, we have recourse to the mercurial, anodyne, and
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION. 141
diaphoretic pill, enjoining the directions given for its use in dysentery. The only deviations in
the treatment of this complaint, from that pursued in dysentery, are comprised in the less fre-
quent use of the aperient {ol: ricini), and in comhining with the calomel, opium and ipecacuanha,
when much atony of viscera is present, three-fourths of a grain, a grain, or a grain and a half
of gum camplior.
The milder forms of diarrhoea are readily relieved, and a cure effected, hy correcting and
restoring the unhealthy secretions, through the corrective and alterative use of small doses of
hydra: sub: muriatis, or mass: hydrargyri, according to the following formulae, viz :
Hydrar: sub: mur: grs. f to 2 ; pulv: gum: camph: gr. | to 1^ ; pulv: ipecac: gr. ^ to | ;
make a pill, and give one every third or fourtli hour during the day : Or, mass: hydra: grs. 4
or 5; pulv: gum: camph: gr. f to 1| ; pulv: ij^ecac: gr. 5 to | ; make a pill — one to be taken
evei-y fourth hour.
With these prescriptions, we frequently prescribe, at the same time, tinct: opii camph: and
spirits camphor, each ^ drachm, to be given twice, thrice, or four times daily, in a saucer of
warm infusion of common green tea.
It is owing to the enervating effects of heat, and especially its long continued and uninter-
rupted sedative influence upon the skin, that bowel complaints present so obstinate and unman-
ageable a character, and so often assume a chronic form in hot climates.
Furthermore, when the tone or innervation of the surface falls below that measure of vital
force capable of reactive efforts, these forms of disease are no longer recoverable under the given
physical circumstances of life ; the only hope for recovery consisting in the removal of the
patient to a colder atmosphere, and one, too, of sufficient tone to impart new life and vigor to
the skin, muscular fibres, and tissues of the body generally — indeed, invigorate anew the entire
frame.
For the relief and successful treatment of chronic dysentery and diarrhoea, we have derived
decided advantage from the use of oxide of silver, combining it with a minute quantity of opium
(not enough to check any of the secretions), say the tenth of a grain, and a trifle of some aro-
matic, such as one grain of pulvis nux moschata — the whole to form one pill, to be administered
twice or thrice a day ; together with the use of this article, enjoining a proper diet and suitable
attention to all the habits of life.
By virtue of its tonic and astringent properties, the scsqui-pernitratis ferri has also been found
valuable as a remedy in tliese troublesome chronic aflections of bowels. But due attention
must be observed in using none but that of recent preparation ; otherwise, through precipitation,
■which is apt to take place, its active medicinal properties are lost, and its use then only serves
to disappoint expectation.
Cholera (epidemic) and common cholera morbus. — Attentive observation cannot fail to induce
the conclusion that the peculiar phenomena of cholera are to be traced, chiefly, to the action of
the remote cause (whether of specific cholera or common cholera morbus) upon the organic
system of nerves.
To elucidate this principle of the pathology of the disease — namely, that the action of ihe
remote cause is concentrated upon, and is the onus of the morbid impression I'elt by the chylopcetic
viscera, and essentially through their nervous or organic projjerties — we would refer to the opera-
tion of si^ecific exciting causes of other diseases, such as the effects of marsh efliuvia, as seen in
the production of its special types of fever ; the contagion of the exanthemata, showing their
special tendencies in the resulting eruptive fevers, and in the specific influence of the exciting
cause (epidemic constitution of atmosphere) of influenza, or specific catarrh.
Explanatory of the connexion between cause and effect in cholera and cholera morbus, and
their exciting agents, there can be little doubt that in the epidemic variety a special influence
exists, acting, however, indirectly; while in the sporadic or common form, intemperance,
improper, injurious, or too much food, unripe and unsuitable fruits or vegetables — in fact, what-
ever is calculated to make a pernicious impression, makes that impression directly ; together with
142 REPOKT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
whicli, the impression is generally made upon a predisposed system, rendered tlms predisposed
}>y tlio disturhiiit;; inflnonces of summer heats.
The mode oi' indirect action of the remote cause of specific cholera, already mentioned, would
be explained by stating, in the first place, that it is conceded on every hand the cause exists
in the atmosijhere; hut wliether in the form of a suhtilc poisonous effluvia or not, is not so
well understood ; though, for our part, we think the electrical condition of atmosphere has much
to do with it. With this, its confessed existence, in an extremely subtile form, in the almo-
sphere, there can be no doubt that the most apparent, if not the only mode, through which its
deleterious impressions upon the system can be efi'ected, is by imbibition through the respira-
tory functions.
From this source, and by this mode, then, it is imparted to the blood; its presence in the cir-
culating fluids serves very soon to deteriorate, deprave, and render these fluids unfit for main-
taining in organic function and healthy secretion tlie viscera of the larger .splanchnic cavity.
This becomes conspicuously manifest in the production of diarrhoea, the first, or initiatory
stage of this fatal disorder, cholera.
This stage of diarrhoea continues for a longer or shorter period; all the while, however,
(hour by hour, with an increasing ratio,) tending to weaken and depress the general health,
and in an uncommon degree reduce and weaken the organic nervous power of the different
chylopcetic viscera, until at length a point of dei:)ression and prostration is attained, below
that which serves to sustain an equalized relation of action between them, or that integrity of
organic life needful to each separately.
The pathological changes consequent ujjon tliis subversion and exhaustion of the organic
nervous power are, great irregularity of the general circulation, and excessive irritability of the
entire assimilating tract, marked in the incident prostration, and in a retroverted action of the
stomach and upper intestines ; while the lower portions of intestinal tube are so eni'eebled in
life and strength of capacity, as to be incapable of sustaining, with quietude, the slightest
impression made upon their extremely irritable lining surfaces. The abnormal condition just
described constitutes the second stage, or disease proper (cholera).
This second stage, or state of open and urgent disease, is not of long continuance ere it
brings about the third and last, or stage of collapse ; when the sunken countenance, the cold
and livid surface, the cramps of the extremities, the feeble and irregular mental action, all dis-
play the extreme im])lication of the circulation and entire nervous system.
It is conceived, then, that in open, specific cholera, the leading pathological principle is to be
found in an impaired and subverted innervation of the ganglionic system of nerves pertain-
ing to tlie abdomen.
Keeping in view this jirinciple as the fundamental, our endeavors to relieve and cure must
accordingly be directed to the adoption of such measures as are known and found to be suitable
for sustaining, in the first place, and then recovering, and restoring to a natural state (or one at
lea.st capable of acting and reacting, on the remedies to be employed), the splanchnic system of
nerves.
With this leading morbid feature in view, the remedies first in importance must necessarily
be active stimulants, and diffusable stimulants, to counteract tlie prostration, and bring about
reaction.
For the jjarticular resulting consequences, such as the engorgement of organs, disabled func-
tions, disordered secretions, and extreme irritability, the more special remedies required are small
and divided doses of hydra: sub: mur:, to restore the secretions; small and divided doses of
opium, to allay the excessive irritability ; with small and divided doses of camphor, to sustain
the enfeebled nerves. We often, also, add a minute quantity of ipecacuanha, to promote the
action of the calomel.
Most generally, nothing unfavorable occurs to prevent the ready and successful management
of the initiatory stage — that of diarrhrea. The treatment we find best adapted to it is, with
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION. 14
some modifications, the one heretofore stated for ordinary summer diarrhcea, namely : Hydra:
sub: mur: g^r. f to grs. 2; pulvis camph: gr. | to gr. 1| ; pulvis ipecac: gr. 1^ — fiat pil: j ;
modifying the prescription in this (the epidemic) form by tlie addition of a half to one grain
of pulvis opii. The \n\l made from any one of the above quantities is directed to be taken at
intervals of three, four, and five hours, according to the requirements of the case. While, in
the larger proportion of cases, this prescription, with the aid of ordinary drinks, may be prin-
cipally relied upon; yet, again, many will occur where the exhaustion of the nervous system,
the exhaustion of the fluids of the body (from the frequent watery evacuations), and the irri-
tability of bowels, is so great as to demand stimulating drinks and additional anodynes.
These urgent indications are to be properly met with decoct: hordei (fervent) made suita-
bly stimulant by the addition of brandy, or the common pleasant beverage of mint julep, in
portions of from one to three ounces. Together with these drinks, we occasionally give (in a
portion of the one used) a draught of a drachm or a drachm and a half of spirits of camphor,
essence of peppermint, and laudanum, of each equal parts.
Frequently the milder forms of this epidemic diarrhcea admit of being readily and perfectly
relieved by so simple a treatment as one or two grains of hydra: sub: mur:, the like quan-
tity of pulvis camph:, and half a grain of ipecacuanha, given in the form of a pill, four
or five times daily ; or from three to five grains of mass: hydra: with one or one and a half
grain of pulvis camph: and half a grain of ipecacuanha, in a pill three or four times a day;
in union with which, exhibiting occasionally a full dose of tinct: opii camphorata.
As is now clearly understood, the judicious treatment of this, the primary stage (diarrhoea)
of cholera, obviates in a large majority of cases the development of the subsequent ones. But
notwithstanding, from a variety of causes, we are not always allowed the advantage of thus easi-
ly relieving the complaint; but, on the contrary, its management is required in the far more
troublesome shape of the second or fully developed stage of violent vomiting and purging.
On being required to prescribe at this period (the second stage) of the disease, our reliance
is still mainly upon small portions of calomel, opium, and camphor, with a minute quantity of
ipecac sometimes added, exhibited as directed in the treatment of diarrhcea.
Commencing, therefore, at once with the administration of these medicines (in the form of a
pill), to be repeated every third or fourth hour, the more urgent indications (vomiting and
purging) are conjointly met with the same stimulants and cordials recommended in the first
stages, but here used with much greater freedom in quantities and in frequency of use.
These remedies alone will often be found inadequate and unavailing, and conscquentlv aux-
iliary means demanded ; in resorting to which, our expectation has not often been disappointed
in the use of the following adjuvants, to wit:
Warm stimulating cataplasms of mustard and Cayenne pepper, or even an epispastic to the
abdomen ; frictions with stimulating liniments to the spine, or the application of a mustard
sinapism between the scapulaj^ and increasing the internal stimuli and opiates by givin"' an
occasional cordial draught composed of aromatic confection, tinct: opii, ajther, or Hoffman's
anodyne, liquor, and mint or cinnamon water, viz: Aromat: confect: ^ drm. to 2 scruples;
ajther sulph: h drm. to 1 drm. ; tinct: opii, drops 30; aqua menthre piperita^, 1 ounce to 1^
ounces. Fiat haustus.
A more ordinary admixture of stimulants, and the one we more commonly resort to, is a
pretty free draught of warm barley-water and brandy, equal parts, exhibiting in it full doses
of spirits of camphor, fether, or Hofiman's anodyne and essence of peppermint.
Where, in opposition to these remedies, diligently employed, the disease continues and tends
to exhaustion and collapse, we have derived decided benefit from the use of nutrient enemata,
such as thin mutton or cliicken broth, rendered cflectively pungent with pulv: sem: sinap: alb:
or pulv: capsicum annuum.
In no condition of disease is the practical application of tlie proverb, "give strong drink unto
him that is ready to }ierish," more appropriate tlian in tlie collapse attendant upon cholera.
144 EEPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Here, truly, is the individual about to perish ; and we as truly are required to endeavor to
prevent it by giving strong drinks. And, indeed, besides such agents as may be embraced in this
general term, we know of but few means wherewith to sustain our endeavors. Attention can
onlv be directed, with any confidence, to the hot and warm bath, or wrapi)ing the patient u\)
in iieated blankets, and directing at the same time the liberal employment of almost any and
every article comiirised in the terms strong drinJcs and stimulants.
In our previous remarks upon the prevailing diseases of this post, they were classified or
divided into those of summer and winter. "We have, therefore, briefly to notice those of the
latter season.
■ As a well-known general principle, the effects of cold in its abnormal impressions mostly
involves another set of structures from those heretofore under consideration — to wit: the thoracic
organs. Consequently, the cold, variable weather of the winter and early spring months is
here, in about the same ratio of fertility as most other places, productive of such disorders as
common catarrh, bronchitis, pneumonia, pleura-pneumonia, and pleuritis.
From the imposed regularfty of the stddier's habits of life, and his facility of access to medical
advice, almost all cases of sickness in garrison are seen under the favorable condition of their
early stages, and mostly unattended by any of the serious complications so apt to be present
when neglected or badly treated in their primary forms.
For reasons of this kind, it is but seldom that cases of any of those acute pulmonary com-
plaints are jireseuted of so grave or aggravated a character as to render their treatment at all
difficult, or otherwise than plain and simple.
To sustain this proposition of therapeutics respecting these diseases, we would simply adduce
the fact, that, in the larger proportion of the worst forms of pneumonic disease occurring here,
general or local blood-letting is not called for, or can, with perfect security, be dispensed
with.
As a method of efficacious and speedy relief in common catarrh and the lighter bronchial
affections, we find nothing better than the tartras antimonii et potassae given in nauseating and
diaphoretic doses. Our principal reliance, therefore, in the treatment of those aftections, is
upon that article, in combination with the citrate of p^otassa, their employment being conducted
according to the following formula, viz: Tart: antimonii et potassaj, 1 grain; citras potassas,
1 drachm; aqua pura, 4 ounces. Fiat mist: — of which half an ounce is given for a dose, and
repeated every second or third hour, until an amelioration is had.
With the above prescription, and with the view of promoting a salutary action in aid of it,
such adjuvants as warm decoctum hordei, or infus: sem: lini:, either plain or acidulated, as
may be deemed most advisable, are employed, being directed to be drank freely.
In thus giving the tartrate of antimony and citrate of potassa according to the preceding
formula — one-eighth of a grain of the former, with some seven and a half or eight of the latter —
these proportions are sometimes found to be not exactly suitable ; the tartrate of antimony not
being in sufficient quantity to excite nausea, and the citrate of potassa in excess tending to
purgation. A little variation in the proportions of either, as the case may be, is all that is
requisite to attain the purposes in view — slight nausea, diaphoresis, and moderate action upon
the bowels.
When aperients are called for, the sulphate of magnesia, in three drachm doses, conjoining
with it an eighth or sixth of a grain of the tartrate of antimony, exhibited at intervals of two
hours imtil an aperient effect results, is the one we usually select in catarrhal affections.
With respect to the more intense or higher grades of pulmonic disease, we still have recourse
to the tartrate of antimony ; using it here, also, in divided doses of the sixth or eighth of a grain,
in combination with seven or eight grains of the nitrate of potassa; uniting with them, when a
deobstruent is required, or any biliary derangement present, one grain of hydra: sub: mur:,
prescribing these quantities in the form of a single powder, at intervals of two hours, for six or
eight repetitions, or until some favorable impression is induced.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
145
With this medicinal treatment, the diluents before mentioned, warm decoctum hordei et
infus: sem: lini, acidulated and plain, are freely administered as a drink.
Therapeutic management of this kind, actively instituted in the first stages of most thoracic
affections, obviates subsequent troublesome complications, and likewise the necessity for general
or local blood-letting, or counter-irritation; occasionally, however, these active remedies are
re(|uired, and recourse is had to thera.
Although the entire district of country contiguous to this post is annually subjected to the
calamity of having rife every form of malarial fever, the immediate locality of Fort Monroe may
justly claim exemption from that evil. The few cases of remittent and intermittent fever occa-
sionally noted in the quarterly reports of sick from hence, within the last two or three years,
are readily traceable, in their origin, to exposure to places well known to be prolific in noxious
marsh exhalations and their corresponding ills.
It is thought worthy of observation, that, in the course of four years' service at this post, no
one case of any one form of the exanthemata has ever fallen under our observation. During
the time this immunity has shown itself here, they have frequently prevailed, both in sporadic
and epidemic character, in various sections of the United States, and, in several instances, so
close at hand as Norfolk, Virginia, only some fifteen miles distant.
The opinion is entertained, that, owing to peculiarities of climate and other physical influ-
ences, alL the exanthematous fevers would present here a milder grade of sthenic action, and
certainly far less organic implication, than when occurring in a more northern atmosphere, or
one of greater tone, as to dryness, cold, and electric tension.
DISEASES.
The following table, compiled from abstract No. 1 for this division, gives a condensed view of
the amount of sickness and mortality:
TABLE EXHIBITING THE KATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quartefs.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
Ratio per 1,000 of meax stre.xgth.
Treated. [ Died.
First quarter - .
5,693
5,841
6,940
6,723
2,804
3,266
5,078
3,114
19
17
67
14
492
560
3 3
Second Quarter - .
9 7
731 9.5
Fourth Q uarter ....__
463 2
Annual ratio -----
6,299
14, 262
117
2 264 IS i^
From the foregoing data, it appears that the proportion of cases of sickness to the mean
strength of the command is 2.20 to 1 ; and that the ratio of deaths to the number of troops
is 1 in 53. T, or 1.8 per cent. The proportion of deaths to cases treated is 1 to 121, or 0.82 per
cent.
The cause of this high ratio of sickness and death is explained by reference to the original
report for Fort Monroe, for the third quarter 1848, which shows a total of 132 cases of remit-
S. 96 19
146
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
tent fever, 42 of yellow fever, 328 of diarrhoea, and 42 of acute dysentery, occurring in troops
which arrived during that quarter, either direct from Vera Cruz, or by the way of New Orleans.
An examination of the abstract shows that in the third quarter of 1848 the "mean strength"
was 736; the number of cases treated, 848; and tlie dcatlis, 5G. If we leave out altogether the
statistics for that quarter, we have the following as the mean results for this region for a period
of fourteen and tliree-fourths years:
Annual ratio. — Mean strength, 6,115; cases treated, 13,414; deaths, 61. Tliis makes the
proportion of cases to the number of troops 2.19 per cent., and that of deaths 1 in 100, or one
per cent. The ratio of cases treated would be 1 in 219, or 0.45 per cent.
FEVERS.
Quarters -
FIHST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
YE.VR.
Proportion of deaths to
cases.
1
IP
Strengtli
5,
693
5,841
6,
HO
6,723
6,299
11
a.
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Febris continua communis...
Febris inteimittens qnotidiana
Febris intermittens tertiana..
Febris intermittens quartana.
Febris remittens
5
32
181
9
19
2
3
1
17
71
289
20
38
1
2
32
180
417
28
263
5
44
3
36
12
85
333
21
51
3
1
66
368
1220
78
371
11
49
5
36
in 66
in 368
in 1220
in 78
lin 74
in 11
5 in 7
10.4
58
193
12.3
59
Febris typbus . .........
1.7
Febris typlius icterodes
7.7
Total -
251
1
438
969
39
505
1
2163
41
1 in 53
343
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters --.-
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
YEAR.
o
o
1
o
i .
Strength
5,693
5,841
6,
)40
6,
r23
6,299
s z
^ 03
OS
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
121
58
6
1
1
91
157
1
346
192
22
10
8
195
203
1
1
983
343
10
1
2
184
351
15
2
2
1
218
125
4
9
3
5
80
166
1
2
1668
718
42
9
15
16
550
877
16
4
3
»
3
in
1 in 104
1 in 179
1 in 14
in 9
Oin 15
in 16
in 550
1 in 292
266
114
Dysenteria chronica
Knteritis __-,_
6.6
1.4
TTepatitis acuta _,.
2.4
Henatitis chronica ......
2.5
Obstipatio
All other diseasesofthissystem
87
139
Total
435
1
976
2
1874
20
610
3
3895
26
1 in 150
618
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MTODLE DIVISION.
147
DISEASES OF THE RESPIEATOKT SYSTEM.
Quarters
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
rOUBTH.
TEAE.
c
X
»
<— S
o «
o
o*
fc.'S
Strength
5,693
5,841
6,
940
6,
■23
G,
299
U el
Diseases.
Cases.
Deatbs.
Cases.
Deatbs.
Cases.
Deatbs.
Cases.
Deatbs.
Cases.
Deatbs.
o S
Bronchitis acuta et chronica..
Catarrhus.
Phthisis pulmonalis
Pieuritis . .
15
669
1
22
29
21
2
2
18
364
3
22
15
9
1
5
16
486
5
23
6
10
2
17
484
7
18
11
10
5
2
66
2003
16
85
61
50
1
14
2
2
lin 66
in 2003
7 in 8
Oin 85
lin 30
1 in 25
10.4
318
2.5
13 4
Pneumonia
All other diseases of tliis
system
9.6
g
Total
757
4
431
6
546
2
547
7
2281
19
lin 120
362
Rheumatismus
166
170
163
1
160
659
1
1 in 659
104
The only remarks found on the sick -reports relative to the diseases occurring in this region
are those already cited, touching the prevalence of remittent and yellow fevers^ diarrhoea, and
dysentery, at Fort Monroe, in the third quarter 1848. These diseases do not appear to have
heen marked by any peculiarities.
The catarrhus epidemicus, which we have found to prevail very extensively throughout the
northern division in 1843, affected the troops at Forts McHenry and Monroe quite severely in
July of that year.
MIDDLE INTERIOR REGION— EAST.
This region iuclndes all that portion of the United States lying between the immediate Atlan-
tic slope and the Mississippi river, and within nearly the same parallels of latitude which
defined the northern and southern boundaries of the middle Atlantic region.
Although only three stations are located in this district, it has been found advisable to present
the diseases in two abstracts, on account of the dissimilarity between those prevailing in the
region of the Alleghanies and in the valley of the Ohio.
The first abstract will, therefore, present the diseases occurring at Carlisle Barracks and at
Alleghany Arsenal; the second, those at Newjjort Barracks.
CARLISLE BARRACKS.
This post is situated in a beautiful valley, about midway between the north and south
mountain-spurs of the Alleghany range, which are separated here the distance of ten miles.
The site of the barracks is as elevated as the general surface of the valley. It is exposed to the
N.W. wind coming from the mountains, about five miles distant ; but its other aspects are, in
a considerable degree, protected by woods, and by the town of Carlisle, situated on a slight emi-
nence, half a mile off. Leitart creek, averaging ten feet in width, has its origin in a spring,
two and a half miles south of the town ; flows past the garrison, on the N.W., distant about
two hundred yards. . A small marshy tract of land (the only one in the vicinity) lies north
of the barracks some three or four hundred yard.s. This creek is not confined by well-de-
148
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
fined banks ; hut, at intervals in its course, spreads over considerable tracts of land. Inter-
mittent fever lias jirevailed, at different times, to a considerable extent, having its origin in the
boggy tract along the creek; tliougb, of late years, a niajurity ol' the cases rejjorted were in
recruits who contracted the disease before joining the post.
No local causes of disease exist in or about the post, unless such as are possibly found in con-
nexion with a tract of low ground, sometimes partially submerged, extending along the whole
length of the government line of fence, on the southwest. Sundry cases of intermittent fever
have occurred during the quarter, which cannot, with plausibility, be attributed to any other
source or origin.
The barracks are old, but unexceptionably good ; being built of brick, and finished in a com-
fortable and commodious way. The same remarks apply to the hospital. The diet of the men
consists of the ration, with such moderate supply of vegetables as can Tie purchased by the com-
I)any fund, and raised in the post garden.
The water is of good quality, being brought in pipes from the Canadequinete creek. It is
slightly impregnated with,lime, but not to an exceptionable extent.
The foregoing facts have been obtained from the quarterly reports of Surgeons Finley and
Wright.
ALLEGHANY AESENAL
Is at Pittsburg, three miles northeast of the city, and on the immediate banks of the Alle-
ghany river, in a valley of limited extent, surrounded by high hills, which abound in bitumi-
nous coal.
This post is remarkably healthy, and the diseases are such as are mainly caused by sudden
variations of temperature.
NEWPORT BARRACKS
Is on the south bank of the Ohio river, opposite Cincinnati, and at the mouth of Licking river.
The immediate site of the barracks is about forty feet -above the river at its ordinary stage of
water. This has been for many years principally used as a depot for recruits enlisted in the
valleys of the Ohio and Mississippi. No special report of its topography has been received.
DISEASES.
Following the order heretofore pursued in this report, the aggregate amount and ratio of
sickness and mortality at Carlisle Barracks and Alleghany Arsenal are presented in the follow-
ing table, compiled from abstract No. 2 for this division.
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean strenglli.
Number treated.
Deaths.
RATIO PER 1,000 OF MEAN STRENGTH.
Treated.
Died.
First quarter. -
2,408
2,309
2,773
2,334
1,359
1,488
2,118
1,420
11
6
14
8
564
644
763
608
4. 5
2. 6
5.
Fourth quarter ......
3. 4
Annufil ratio -- -
2,456
6,385
39
2,599
15. 8
6,373
36 9. Ml
14.6
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
149
The proportion of cases treated to the mean strength, is 259 per cent. ; and of deaths, 1 in 63,
or 1.5 per cent. .The ratio of deaths to the number of cases treated is 1 in 163.70, or 0.61 of
one per cent. Exclusive of cholera, the ratio of deaths to the number of men is 1 to 68, or 1.4
per cent.
FE\TEKS.
FIEST.
SECOND.
THIBD.
FOURTH.
TEAR.
S
s
o
1
1
-, M)
strength
2, 408
2,309
2,773
2,334
2,456
^ 5
Diseases.
Cases
Deaths.
Cases.
Deatbs.
Cases.
Deatbs.
Cases.
Deatbs.
Cases.
Deatbs.
Febris continua communis
Febris inteimittens quotidiana..
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana. . .
10
6
35
6
13
9
1
11
20
62
3
43
16
2
7
29
52
99
3
24
29
62
1
37
17
1
3
52
84
211
10
197
45
1
3
3
in 52
Oin 84
1 in 211
Oin 10
1 in 66
1 in 15
in
21
34
85
4
80
Febris tvohus. .
18
Febris typhus icterodes
Total
84
1
155
2
190
170
4
599
7
lin 85
?43
The quarterly reports are almost silent respecting the class of fevers. The prevalence of
scarlatina and pertussis is noted in March, 1845, at Carlisle Barracks; and a severe and fatal
epidemic of scarlatina in the vicinity of the town of Carlisle, during the summer and fall of
1850, is also reported, but without particulars.
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED "WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters. --
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
YEAR.
so
a
•u .
^. *
og
- ts
1
§
-5
Strength
2,408
2,309
2,773
2,334
2,456
* a
o g
Diseases.
Cases.
.Deaths.
Cases.
Deatbs.
Cases.
Deatbs.
Cases.-
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
1
90
9
57
166
213
32
2
87
93
11
476
135
2
4
88
182
3
1
2
179
34
1
C8
83
1
12
958
210
4
5
1
300
524
3
1
3
1 in 4
in 958
1 in 210
in 4
in 5
in
in 1
in 300
1 in 175
Diarrhoea. ..
390
Dysenteria acuta. _
85
Dysenteria chronica
1.6
Hepatitis acuta
Hepatitis chronica
122
All Other diseases of this
system .--. ..-
213
Total
323
428
898
6
365
1
2014
7
1 in 2S8
820
Exclusive of cholera
2002
4 1 in 500
815
150
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
The Asiatic cholera made its appearance at Carlisle Barracks in July, 1849. Surgeon De
Camp remarks :
" The circumstances under wliicli cholera made its appearance at this post have tended very
much to convince me that it is a disease of a contagious character.* The disease was evidently
brought here in the person of a recruit, f and the other ca.ses (11 total, 3 fatal) occurred in
quick succession. There was a peculiarity in the discharges from the bowels in some of the
cases, toward the close of the disease, which I never saw before, viz: instead of rice-water,
white mucus, occasionally streaked with blood. The treatment was similar to that which I pur-
sued in 1832, except that I did not use the lancet so freely. Calomel in large doses was my
main dependence; dry cupping over the abdomen, sinapisms, dry rubbing witli mustard, and
external warmth were freely resorted to. There were many cases of suspicious diarrhoea, which
might have become cases of cholera, but for early treatment ; they were generally relieved by a
mixture of tinct: opii, tether, and spts: camphora3."
DISEASES OF THE EESPIKATORY SYSTEM.
Qufirters .... _ . ...---
FIKST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
rODRTH.
YEAR.
2
•S
■s .
° i
i 3
1
1
?^
Strengtii
2,408
2,309
2,773
2,334
2,456
s i
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
o B
Bronchitis acuta et chronica .
Catarrh us .....
30
182
2
24
13
1
3
3
133
3
9
24
5
1
1
98
1
9
14
1
1
14
167
17
7
1
48
580
6
59
58
5
3
5
in 48
Oin 580
1 in 2
in 59
1 in 11
in 5
19
235
Phthisis pulmonalis
Pleuritis -- - -
2.4
24
Pneumonia .
23
All other diseases of this sys-
tem
2
Total
251
4
177
1
123
2
205
1
756
8
1 in 95
307
Rheumatismus- . .
66
58
1
45
52
221
1
lin 221
90
In regard to the diseases of this system, the original reports of sick are without remark, ex-
cept a note of the prevalence of epidemic catarrh at Carlisle Barracks in July and August, 1843.
The tables which immediately follow are compiled from abstract No. 3 for this division:
one station only — Newjiort Barracks, Kentucky.
" For similar views by Surgeon De Camp, see " Statistical Report on the Sickness, &c., in the V. S. Army, 1840," p.
86.— C.
I It is the belief of the compiler that this recruit was transferred from Fort Columbus, New York harbor, where cholera
prevailed. — C.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
161
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Numher treated.
Deaths.
Ratio pee J.OOO of mean STREsoTn.
1
Treated. | Died.
First quarter. . ___-
1,422
1,395
1,455
1,546
846
957
1,208
890
19
25
20
11
595 t^
686
830
575
18
13
Fourth quarter
7
Annual ratio
1,454
3,901
75
2,682
51 5
Exclusive of cholera
3,670
• 59
2,524
40.5
The foregoing table shows that the annual ratio of sickness to the strength of the command
at Newport Barracks, is 2.68 to 1; and that of deaths, 1 in 19, or 5.1 per cent. It is also dedu-
cible from the table that the proportion of deaths to cases treated is 1 in 52, or 1.9 per cent.
If we deduct from the aggregate sickness the 231 cases of Asiatic cholera, and from the mor-
tality the 16 deaths from that disease, the following will be the result: Mean strength, 1,454;
number treated, 3,6T0 ; deaths, 59. The proportion of sick to number of men, with this modi-
fication, is 2.52 to 1; that of deaths, 1 in 24.6, or 4.05 per cent. ; and the ratio of deaths to
cases treated, 1 in 64, or 1.5 per cent.
FEVERS.
Quarters.
Strength .
1,422
Diseases.
Cases. Deaths.
1,395
1.455
1,546
1,454
Cases.
Deaths. I Cases.
Deaths, t Cases.
Deaths, i
^ i
o S
So
13
es
Febris continua communis
Febris intermittens quotidiana.
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana
Febris remittens
Febris typhus.
1
114
51
13
30
Febris typhus icterodes <
Total .
209
151
35
34
18
238
180
30
U
23
17
4
265
187
6
3
12
23
1
1
632
122
14
82
88
5
232
94i
in 1
in 632
Oin 122
Oin 14
liu 82
1 in 11
in 5
1 in 105 649
434
83
9
56
60
3
152
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
S
w
rt
-a .
= u
o
■a
I
s
1
Strength
1,422
1,395
1,455
1,516
1,454
V to
Sg
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Coses.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
S
&
C7
9
1
2
3
30
47
2
1
95
141
IG
1
3
2
•1
31
50
4
2
(1
2
119
2C7
49
1
48
80
10
5
17
147
21
2
1
2G
31
2
1
1
1
231
622
95
3
13
3
4
135
208
16
7
4
1
3
1 in 14
1 in 89
lin 24
1 in 3
in 13
in 3
in 4
in 135
1 in 69
427
65
Dysenteria chronica
Enteritis
2
8
2
Hepatitis chronica.
2
Obstipatio
92
All other diseases of this system. .
153
Total
159
3
340
8
570
15
245
5
1314
31
lin 42
903
Exclusive of cholera
1083
15
lin 72
744
Cholera. — In the report from Newport Barrack.?, for the quarter ending June 30, 1849, Sur-
geon Finley makes the foUowing remarks : "It will be seen by this report, that there have been
sixty-six eases of Asiatic cholera uiic^er treatment ; these were, even the mildest, characterized
by the di.schargcs peculiar to that disease ; the doubtful cases ' of diarrhcea' have been placed
under the head of diarrhcea. The treatment in every case which has occurred since my special
rejjort, has been that laid down in that report — the free exhibition of calomel and camphor, and
the quinine after reaction was fairly established."
The report of Surgeon Finley thus referred to, is dated " Newport Barracks, Ky., June 14,
1849," and is as follows:
" I consider it my duty, under existing circumstances, to anticipate my quarterly report, so
far as to give an outline of the treatment and its results of the only two cases of Asiatic cholera
which have been under my charge.
" Kecruit , a musician of intemperate habits, was confined in the guard-house on
Wednesday for drunkenness ; he was released on Saturday morning, and in the evening of that
day was attacked with diarrhoea; but no report was made of his situation, although an
order requiring such report by the patient, or the non-commissioned officer in charge,
immediately upon the appearance of such symptoms, had been issued. This diarrhcea con-
tinued until the next day, between 4 and 5, p. M., when he was accidentally discovered
in his bunk by my steward and conveyed to the liospital. I saw him immediately, and
found him in the stage of collapse; no pulse perceptible in the radial artery; skin cold,
corrugated, and covered with profuse ijerspiration ; spasms of the muscles of the lower extremi-
ties; cold, white tongue; serous discharges per aiium ct orem. The treatment: Large sina-
pisms over stomach and bowels ; spinal irritations, by applying a strip of flannel saturated with
spts: terebinthiniu over the entire vertebral column, and jiassing a hot smoothing-iron on it_
(This appeared to relieve the muscular spasms immediately). Calomel, grs. xx; camphor, grs.
x; opium, gr. j; was given every hour till the arterial action was excited, then every two hours
till five doses were taken. For some time I had hopes of his recovery; but tliough the heart's
action was for a time increased and sustained by stimulants (carbonate of ammonia and brandy),
he died the next day by astlienia.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION. 153
"Second. Eecruit , a man of temperate habits, brought to hospital. His bowels had been
more or less disordered for three days; had taken some medicine ; what it was, I did not learn.
Symptoms : Great prostration ; pulse in the radial artery scarcely discernible ; husky voice ;
cold, clammy skin ; tongue white and cold ; serous discharges per anum et orem. The treat-
ment in this case was the same as in the preceding, with the following exceptions: Oi)ium was
not exhibited. After arterial action was in some degree restored, I gave twice, with the calomel
and camphor, ten grains of the sulphate of quinine ; and with the next.dose of calomel and
camphor, five grains of quinine ; making twenty-five grains of quinine in four hours. My chief
attention was directed to sustain the heart's action, and prevent death by asthenia, till the
nervous system should be restored to its tonic state, and, with that, the normal condition of the
secreting organs. The serous discharges continued at intervals of from three to five hours, for
twenty-four hours ; the calomel and camphor in varied quantities being given after each dis-
charge, when the patient for the first time tfuring his treatment passed about half an ounce of
high-colored urine (this secretion having been totally suppressed), followed in a short time by
a dejection, evidently the eff'ect of the calomel. From that time his recovery commenced. I
was induced to omit the opium in this case, by the consideration that it contrilmted to the
atony of the nervous system, and counteracted the effect of the nervous tonics, quinine and
camphor. I have treated the disease in its incipient stage of diarrhcea with calomel and cam-
phor alone, with uniibrm success. I will mention that, in the second case, spinal irritation was
made as in the first, and there were no spasms or cramps. In both cases creosote was given
to check emesis, and apparently with good effect. The quantity of calomel varied from half a
drachm to ten grains ; the camphor from two to ten grains ; the evidence of improvement being
the lengthened intervals between the discharges and the diminution of quantity. The thirst
in both cases was excessive, for which ice and ice- water to a limited extent was allowed."
In addition to the 66 cases of cholera treated by Surgeon Finley in the second quarter, 1849,
19 occurred in the succeeding quarter; making a total of 85, of which 5 proved fatal; being 1
death in 17 cases.
Cholera again made its appearance at Newport Barracks in September, 1851. In the reports
for that and the following quarters, 85 cases are reported, 9 proving fatal. These cases were
treated by Assistant Surgeon B. M. Byrne, who makes the following remarks respecting them,
in his report dated September 30, 1851 :
"The cholera made its appearance in this garrison on the 22d September, and nearly all the
cases here reported (Y3) occurred within four days subsequent to its incursion. It had been
prevailing on Licking river, in the vicinity of this garrison, for some weeks previously ; and,
althougli I have not been able to trace it, but little doubt can exist that it was from there it
was introduced. The disease has, within the last few days, begun to spread through the city
of Newport, the first cases having occurred in the vicinity of the barracks. In every instance
which proved fatal, the patient had, through neglect to report in time, reached the stage of
collapse before entering the hospital. Owing to the great difliculty in getting the men
(recruits) to report, during the premonitory stage of the disease, the cases were generally of
a severe character. But few entered the hospital before they had reached the spasmodic stage;
and several of those now convalescent were badly collapsed. Calomel was the main remedy
resorted to in the treatment of the disease. It was administered in scruple and half drachm
doses, coml)ined with ten grains of camphor, and repeated after each evacuation, till bile appeared
in the stools. In some instances, more than 300 grains had been exhibited before this result
was obtained ; but in every instance, except one, in which bile was restored to the jiassages, the
patient convalesced. As auxiliaries to this treatment, dry heat, occasional opiates, carbonate
of ammonia, brandy, mercurial frictions, mustard-plasters, blisters, &c., were employed."
In May, 1852, cholera again appeared at Newport Barracks. The first case, says Dr. Byrne,
occurred in a recruit, wliu bad recently come uji the Ohio river in a boat on which cholera hud
S. i)U 20
154
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
prevailed. In May and June, 19 cases were successfully treated by Dr. Byrne, wliicli, -with 85
the previous year, makes a total of 104 ; of wliicli 9 died, being about 1 death to 12 cases.
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM.
Quiirtt^rs. .... -
FIKST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
roiiKTn.
YEAR.
O
S
S
g.
S
o
S
si
Strength
1,422
1,
J 1)5
1,455
1,546
1,454
Diseases.
Cases.
Dcalbs.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths
Cases.
Deatlis.
1°
Broncliitis acuta etchronicii
Catairhus. ...--._-
19
96
1
17
68
2
1
4
11
21
3
12
23
. 3
2
2
6
14
1
13
1
4
1
10
74
14
29
3
1
46
205
5
56
121
12
4
1
6
in 46
in 205
4 in 5
1 in 56
1 in 20
in 12
31
141
Phtliisis piilmonaHs. . . . - - .
3.4
38
Pneiuiionia
83
All other diseases of
system -
this
g
Total .
203
5
73
4
39
1
130
1
445
11
1 in 40
306
22
25
16
17
80 1
in 80
55
MIDDLE INTERIOR REGION— WEST.
The region thus designated for the purposes of this report, embraces that portion of country
lying between the Mississippi and the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains, and the thirty-
sixth and fortieth parallels of north latitude.
The military stations which have been or are now occupied in this region are six in number,
viz: Jefierson Barracks, St. Louis Arsenal, Forts Leavenworth, Scott, Atkinson, and Riley.
Jefferson Barracks having been occupied as a depot for recruits^ and being also peculiarly
located in reference to its medical topography, it has been determined to present the diseases
occurring tiiere, and at St. Louis Arsenal, which is in its vicinity, in a separate abstract, and to
classify the diseases of the remaining four posts together.
MEDICAL TOrOGIlAPHY AND DISEASES OF JEFFERSON BAKltACKS AND ST. LOUIS ARSENAL.
Compiled from reports by Surgeon S. G. I. De Camp : 1839-'40 and '56.
JEFFERSON BARRACKS.
Jefferson Barracks is situated on the right bank of the Mississippi river, ten miles below the
city of St. Louis, uj)on a sloping ridge, elevated about 100 feet above the river, and distant from
it about 150 yards. The ground continues to rise gently for one mile west of the barracks,
attaining an elevation of about 200 feet above high-water mark. Tlie surface of the earth for
many miles south and west, and for four or five miles north, is undulating; and as it frequently
ri.ses into abrupt hills with deep ravines, the drainage is perfect. The soil is a rich loam,
based upon clay, with a substratum of limestone. The country around, with the exception of
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION. 155
the public grounds, remains (1839) covered with a heavy growth of timber. Indications of lead
are common, and stone-coal is found in abundance within a few miles of the post.
The river is about one mile wide, and upon the opposite side, in Illinois, is the great "Ameri-
can bottom," which is said to be sixty miles long, and, on an average, seven miles wide. On the
river it is skirted with forests, varying in breadth from a half to one mile, whilst the remaining
space to the liigh ground consists principally of prairie, covered with a luxuriant growth of
grass. This prairie is cliequered witli numerous lakes ; and as the evaporation of the water during
theJatter part of the summer exposes the surface of the subjacent soil, a fruitful source of dis-
ease is engendered, the influence of which is sensibly felt at the barracks. The water used at
the post is usually that of the river ; but in summer it has been common to resort to wells and
sjjrings, the waters of which are prejudicial to health, causing, in many persons, bowel com-
plaints.
The buildings used as barracks are built of stone, and occupy three sides of a sr|uare. They
were erected in 1827, and were calculated to accommodate twenty-two companies, under the or-
ganization of that period, including store-rooms, offices, and mess-rooms. The position, with
regard to health, is as good as any which could have been selected upon the river bank ; but, from
an acquaintance with the diseases of this country for more than twenty-two years, I am able to
state that fewer cases occur, and, when they do, they are much milder in their character, when
removed from the river. At least three-fourths of the persons at this post liave had fever this
season (1839); while at the distance of one mile from the river, a dense forest intervening,
there has scarcely been a single case.
ST. LOUIS ARSENAL.
St. Louis Arsenal^is situated within the incorporated limits of the city, in latitude 38° 37' 28";
longitude 90° 15' 16". It is elevated above the Mississippi, at an ordinary stage of water,
^bout 12 feet. The main channel of the river runs east of the arsenal grounds about half a
mile, an island intervening, and a small channel, which, at times, has but little water in it,
leaving exposed a broad surface of a muddy deposit, covered to a considerable extent with de-
cayed wood, brought by each rise of the upper rivers from the wood-drifts. Being situated at
the lower end of a large city, where great numbers of dead animals are thrown into the river,
not a few of them are deposited in the vicinity of the arsenal when the river is low. In addi-
tion to the above causes of disease, a little below the arsenal, on the opposite side of the river,
there is a chain of lakes, which in midsummer become very low, leaving large tracts of muddy
ground exposed to the action of the sun. All these causes are fruitful sources of malaria, pro-
ducing fever of an intermittent t}'pe. From long residence in this vicinity, I am convinced
that when the east and southeast winds prevail, these causes are made operative to a considera-
ble extent. Elevation above the river, especially if a little removed from it, tends to a great
extent to render the above causes inoperative. Persons residing in tlie rear of the arsenal, on
high ground, are seldom attacked with chills and fever.
Persons who have recently come to reside at the arsenal, from distant parts of the country,
are subject to this disease; and the family of the present commanding officer is proof of this, as
several of its members have been afflicted with it.
The enlisted men, whose duties are very much under cover, and who have been living at
the arsenal for a length of time, are not particularly subject to it.
I am fully persuaded that the arsenal is in an unhealthy position, and, sliould the government
ever feel disposed to occupy any other, whether for health or for other reasons, any place south
of St. Louis, in St. Louis county, seventy feet or more above the river, will give a guaranty
for much better health than can be found at the arsenal; and if thrown back one-half mile at
that elevation, the immunity from disease will be greatly increased.
156
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
DISEASES.
The following table, compiled from abstract No. 4 of this division, exhibits a summary of the
amount of sickness and mortality at these two stations :
TABLE EXHIBITING THE EATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
RATIO PER 1,000 OF MEAN BTRENOTH.
Treated.
Died.
5,525
4,232
6,245
6,320
3,908
4,545
5,761
5,741
90
94
129
80
707
1,073
922
908
IC
22
Third quarter,
20
Fourth Q Utirter --__-_-
12
5,580
19,955
393
3,576
70
Exclusive of cholcrfi-- -- ..
19,587
263
3,510
47
1
It is here shown that the annual proportion of sickness to the mean strength of the command
is 3.5*7 to 1 ; the ratio of deaths to the number of troops 1 in 14.4, or 7 per cent. ; and the pro-
portion of deaths to the number of casos treated 1 in 51, or 2 per cent. Exclusive of cholera,
the proportion of deaths to persons is 1 in 21, or 4.6 per cent. ; and to the number of cases
treated 1 in 74, or 1.34 per cent.
FEVERS.
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
TEAR.
2
' x:
■S
° s
C eS
o o
•fi
o
o.
s
S
5,525
4,232
6,245
6,320
5,580
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
a
o <..
1 =
a
7
2
318
435
6
33
10
811
7
1
1
1
7
527
423
9
39
13
3
1
2
2
1
6
12
662
10
2
174
13
1
6
2
10
4
8
6
625
868
1
96
19
2
6
7
1
22
27
2132
2536
18
342
55
6
20
2
2
20
6
1
10 in 11
Oin 27
lin 1066
1 in 12G8
Oin 18
1 in 17
lin 9
lin C
4
Febris continua communis
FebriB iutermitteus quotidiana.
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana ..
6
382
454
3
61
Febris typbus- - -.- . -__.
10
Febris typli us icterodcs
1
Total
9
1022
6
1680
22
1625
14
5138
51
1 in 100
920
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
157
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters ,
Strength .
Cholera Asiatica
Diarrhcea
Dysenteria acuta
Dyseuteria chronica
Enteritis
Hepatitis acuta
Hepatitis chronica
Obstipatio
All other diseases of this sys-
tem
Total .
Exclusive of cholera.
5,525
C-dsea, Deaths.
81
471
136
58
1
1
80
164
992
39
7
1
49
4,232
Cases. Deaths.
80
49
999
7
241
2
89
1
4
2
164
111
1690
60
6,245
Cases. Deaths.
196
1262
384
32
4
2
196
148
2224
34
37
9
1
81
6,320
Cases. Deaths.
11
8
1042
11
182
8
15
7
1
1
8
2
178
182
1619
39
5,580
Cases. Deaths.
368
3774
943
194
2
9
12
618
605
6525
6157
130
62
19
10
1
1 in 2.
1 in 61
1 in 50
1 in 19
1 in 2
in 9
lin 6
in 618
1 in 121
229 1 in 28
99
1 in 62
^ S
676
169
34
0.4
1.5
2
110
108
1169
1103
In regard to the foregoing table, the prevalence of an epidemic dysentery in September, 1840,
at Jefferson Barracks, and the occurrence of epidemic cholera in 1849-'50-'51-'52, and '54, are
to be noted.
In 1849, the first case of cholera occurred on the 22d of January. The patient sickened in
St. Louis, but died at the barracks. After this, says Surgeon Wheaton, "one or two cases
occurred daily for a time, but soon became more frequent. After ten or twelve days the disease
began to decline, and ceased on the 27th March" (83 days). No one treatment apjjeared more
successful than another after the stage of collapse. Eighty-one cases are reported (exclusive
of women and children), 11 terminating in death. This disease reappeared in May following.
Cholera again visited Jefferson Barracks in June, 1850, continuing till some time in August,
the precise date of cessation not reported. In June, 1850, this disease occurred at St. Louis
Arsenal. The medical officer there. Assistant Surgeon Abadie, remarks: "Since the com-
.mencement of May, very unmanageable cases of cholera have been observed in St. Louis. At
the arsenal a good deal of diarrhcea prevailed among the men. One well-marked case of cholera
is reported. The usual treatment pursued by me in such cases, viz : large doses of calomel,
camphor, with a little opium given until biliary evacuations were produced, together with fric-
tions with dry mustard, proved successful."
In June of the next year (1851) we once more find cholera at Jefierson Barracks, ceasing
this time in July; and again in April, 1852, ceasing in May. In March, 1854, a few cases are
reported, and the disease appears to have continued to affect the garrison until November fol-
lowing. The average proportion of deaths to cases was about 1 in 3.
158
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM.
Quarters .
FIB.ST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
ForKxn.
TEAK.
S
x:
1 ■
as
C »
§
s|
Strength
5,
525
i,
232
6,
245
c,
320
5,580
i!
oS
■So
a
^ Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Bronchitis .acuta ct chronica..
19
690
7
53
42
6
1
5
4
8
1
11
410
4
41
17
5
2
2
3
7
4
485
9
17
3
6
1
10
1
35
765
3
51
57
6
1
4
3
11
1
69
2350
23
162
119
23
4
1
21
11
26
2
lin 17
1 in 2350
21 in 23
lin 15
1 in 4
lin 11
12
421
4
Plcuritis
29
Pneumonia
21
All other diseases of this system
4
Total
817
19
488
14
524
12
917
20
2746
65
1 in 42
492
139
158
104
132
533
in 553
99
The epidemic catarrh, so frequently noted in this report, prevailed at Jefferson Barracks
in July, 1843.
We now proceed to the consideration of the topography and diseases of the remaining posts
in this region ; and, first, of
FORT LEAVENWORTH.
This post is situated on the right hank of the 'Missouri river, ahout 500 miles ahove its con-
fluence with the Mississippi. As the Missouri here is not more than 300 yards wide, heing one
of its narrowest points, the water is deep and the current rapid. This mighty river is at times
navigahle for steamhoats 1,750 miles ahove the fort, and always, unless ohstructed hy ice, to
its mouth.
This fort stands on a plain elevated ahout 150 feet ahove the surface of the river. This plain
is the highest point of an undulating prairie, which extends as far south as the eye can reaclr.
The opposite shore is an extensive alluvial bottom, covered with a dense forest of cottonwood
(populus Canadensis). The margin of the river, north of the fort, presents a similar character;
but, as the prevailing winds are from the south, the full effects of the exhalations from this
miasmatic surface are not experienced.
The soil, which is quite productive, consists of a sandy loam, covered with a rich vegetable
deposit, the whole based on a stratum of clay and limestone.
"The forest," says Surgeon Macomli, "abounds in trees valuable for fuel or timber. With
the excei:ition of the pine, almost all kinds are to be found. The most common are the juglans
nigra, carya olivceformis, carya alba, acer saccliarinum, acer negundo, platanus occidentalis,
cerasus Virginiana, morus rubra, quercus alba, &c."
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT SCOTT.
By Assistant Surgeon Joseph K. Barnes : 1852.
Fort Scott was established in the spring of 1842, by the removal of the garrison from Fort
Wayne, Cherokee Nation. The position selected for the encampment, and subsequent site of
the post, is in latitude 38^ N., longitude Vr 30' W. of Washington; four miles west of the
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION. 159
Missouri line, and upon the military road from Leavenworth to Gibson. The nearest point on
the Missouri river is ninety-five miles N.N.E.' The general features of the country are those of
a high table prairie, intersected by well-wooded water-courses, at intervals rarely exceeding ten
miles, and cut by limestone ravines, wliich, ordinarily dry, are sometimes the beds of immense
torrents. The streams of the section between the Kansas river, ninety-three miles north, and
Spring river, fifty-five miles south, are trilnitaries of the Osage, and preserve generally an
easterly course, until forming that river, which flows southeast to join the Missouri.
The immediate site of the post is a flat spur of high prairie, running from S. to N., \)ound-
ed on tlie N.W. by the Marmiton river, and on the N.E. by a small, clear-water creek, joining
the Marmiton within a short distance of the spur. This plateau opens out rapidly to the south
in a beautifully undulating prairie ; while to the west, north, and east, it terminates abruptly in an
almost precipitous descent of fifty feet to the river and creek bottoms. These bottoms, fifteen to
twenty feet above the usual water-level, are heavily timbered, and vary in width from one
quarter to one mile, opening again on high prairie, which, to the west and east, runs up into
limestone ridges, averaging forty feet more elevation than the land to the south or north. The
soil is a dark chocolate-colored loam, with much granular limestone detritus, but little clay, no
silicious sand, retaining moisture but a short time, and, when dry, very' hard and compact. The
prevailing geological formation is limestone, which is found bare on the ridges, in the ravines
and beds of streams, and at depths from six inches to six feet in the prairie-valleys and river-
bottoms. Bituminous coal, shale, and grey sandstone are also found. Occasionally small
spots of timber are met with on the prairie ; but, as a general rule, this growth is confined to the
borders of the streams, and consists of the juglans nigra, jilatnnus occidentalis, morv.s rubra,
ulnius Americana, acer saccharinum, and quercus alba, rubra, nigra, aquatica, and macrocarpa,
the filia Americana, and the Juglans alba, some of which attain great size. The bottoms are also
covered with a luxuriant undergrowth, composed principally of the cercis Canadensis, amelan-
chier Canadensis, hamamelis Virginica, laurus benzoin, sambucus nigra, ribes grossularia, rosa
Carolina, rubus odoratus, rubus villosus, and vitis aestivalis. The juniper us Virginiana is found
twenty, and the pimis sylvestris sixty miles south of us. The fauna of this region was origin-
ally extensive, but the commercial demand for furs and peltries has caused their almost entire
extinction by Indians and trappers. The birds are those of the middle States, with the addition
of the pinnated grouse (tetrao cupido), which exist in great quantities. Reptiles and insects,
both noxious and innocuous, abound both upon the prairie-ridges and river-bottoms.
Owing to tlie physical conformation of the country, the climate is one of extremes of heat
and cold, of dryness and moisture. After a long and debilitating summer, the winter, most fre-
quently commencing abruptly with cold storms from the northeast, is a succession of alterna-
tions, the mercury falling or rising 30° to 40° in a few hours. Springs and wells supply an
abundance of good water, which rarely fails, even in the dryest seasons. Extensive gardens,
although sometimes failing in articles intended for winter use, have always aflbrded a suffi-
ciency of esculents during the spring and summer. The quarters are exceedingly roomy, well
ventilated and comfortable, and, with the necessary out-houses, are furnished with good drain-
age, preventing all accumulations of water and filth ; the general ari'angement of the post being
such, that any inattention to police would at once become apparent.
An accurate examination of tlie country, for several miles in each direction, has failed to dis-
cover any local feature which may be considered objectionable, or as remotely tlie cause of
disease. There are no grass-ponds, swamps, or lakes near us; the streams are numerous, but
without stagnant pools; the bottom-lands extensive, and sometimes overflowed, but they drain
as rapidly and thoroughly as the jirairies.
The medical records of Fort Scott, from May, 1842, to January, 1849, exhibit an aggregate
of 3,415 cases, in a command of 3,034 men — a proportion of 1.12 to 1. Of these, 1,717 were
malarious fevers ; which, deducting 467 surgical cases, gives a proportion of 1.38 to 1, or more
than one and one-third per cent, over all other diseases. But 8 cases of remittent arc recorded.
160 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
the remaining 1,709 being intermittent, either quotidian, tertian, or qnartan. This proportion
varies with the different quarters of tlie 3-ear, and with different years; being mucli greater
during the tliird and fourth than the first and second quarters, and in the years IS-lo and 1845
than any others. The next in point of numbers, and by far the most serious in result, are
diseases of the respiratory organs, which constitute 331 in 1,241, or more than one-fcmrth of
the cases, after deducting the niahxrious and surgical. This proportion varies with different
years, and is influenced by unimportant epidemics of catarrli and influenza, but maintains a
marl;^d increase during the first and fourth quarters of each year, pneumonia being the most
frequent and dangerous form. Of tlie 910 cases not already specified, 287 were diseases of the
digestive organs, principally diarrhoea, colica, and obstipatio^ with an occasional case of hepa-
titis and dysenteria. The second quarter of each year furnishes the greater portion of these
cases; owing, doubtless, to the abundance of vegetables obtainable at that season. Kecruits
newly arrived occasionally complain of the laxative effects of the well and spring water, but
this soon passes off; and were it not for errors of diet and intemperance, these affections would
be still more unfrequent. In this connexion, it is worthy of remark, that, although spasmodic
cholera has prevailed within fifty miles both north and south of this point, not a single well-
marked case has existed here. Diseases of fibrous and muscular tissues have also prevailed to
a greater extent during the second quarters ; of the whole number (133), 51 occurring during
the months of April, May, and June. These months include the usual rainy season ; and
diseases excited by the blustering winds of March, are fully developed during the cold easterly
storms of April. Of 77 cases of diseases of the brain and nervous system, a majority are referri-
ble to habits of intemperance. One of the fatal cases of meningitis is directly ascribed to this
cause. Exposure to the sun ui)on the open prairie should also have its due importance, although
many of the cases of cephalalgia were doubtless owing to simple gastric derangements. With
but few exceptions, the 45 cases of disease of the urinary and genital organs were venereal,
primary syj^hilis, and gonorrhoea. Of the remaining 368, were fourteen cases of eruptive
fevers (non-contagious), and two of serous and exhalent vessels ; leaving 352 not admissible under
either of the foregoing classes, and comprising under tlie caption of "all other diseases" many
of a specific character; as ebrietas, toxicum, scirrhus, scorbutus, debilitas, amaurosis, &c., &c.
The surgical cases are divided into 145 of abscess and ulcers, and 322 of wounds and injuries.
During the six years and nine months included in these statistical details, seventeen deaths
have occurred — six of which were accidental, and not affording opportunity for medical treat-
ment ; one drowned ; one frozen to death ; one found dead from intoxication ; two of gun-shot
wounds, immediately fatal; and one stabbed and beaten to death. Of the entire number of
cases treated, eleven terminated fatally, viz: four of phthisis pulmonalis, one of pleuripneu-
monia, three of pneumonia, two of meningitis, and one of apojjlexia ; making the proportion
of deaths under treatment one in three hundred and ten and forty-five hundredths (1 in 310.45).
But few facts concerning the vital statistics of the Osages, the tribe of Indians occupying the
country to the west of this post, can be collected. The traders remain but a few years among
them, the agents are frequently changed, and the intelligence of a half-breed will not carry
him back beyond a single hunting season. They are essentially a nomadic race, moving from
point to point as their wants compel, and preferring a precarious deiiendence ujion the chase to
agricultural pursuits. Their usual hunting seasons are the early summer and winter, when
they go upon the plains in pursuit of buffalo. Improvident and wasteful, a successful bunt is
but an inducement to feasting and gluttony, and, upon their return to the villages and trading
stations, but few have made sufficient provision for the winter. The skins procured on the
summer hunt are disposed of for flour, corn, coffee, sugar, &c., &c., when they again start out
for the second or winter hunt, which is i)rincipally for furs, although they also frequently
obtain buffalo. By spring, the proceeds of this hunt are disposed of, and they sometimes suffer
for want of food before the grass is high enough for another foray. The history of one year is
that of many — wasteful plenty and intemperance to-day; want, sickness, and misery to-morrow.
AMONG TUE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION. 161
Of all the frontier tribes, the Osages, originally neither hrave nor warlike, would seem to have
suffered most from association with the whites ; for^ with hardly an exception, they are notori-
ously intemperate, and will deprive themselves of the actual necessaries of life to procure whisky.
Filthy in their persons, irregular in their habits, continually subjected to the extremes of
excess and want, it is not surprising that most diseases assume an unwonted malignancy and
fatality among them. Sooner or later in the autumn — and the less successful their spring hunt,
the sooner and more severely — diarrhoea, intermittent, remittent, and bilious fevers appear.
Diarrhoea and dysentery are the almost invariable consequence of an unfortunate hunt ; for, in
this event, they betake themselves to the fields of the half-breeds and their frontier neighbors,
devouring unripe corn, melons, and pumpkins, stripping the bushes of green haws and berries,
and searching the bottoms for roots, which necessity has taught them are edible. Deficient nu-
trition produces its effects as surely in the Indian wigwam as in the hold of an emigrant ship or
the over-crowded lanes and alleys of a city. Intermittent fever becomes pernicious or congestive ;
remittent and bilious fevers, typhoid ; and diarrhoea, merely a symptom of a graver disease.
The advance of the season finds them poorly prepared; the cold storms of winter are but feebly
resisted ; imjjerfect calorification predisposing to pulmonary engorgements, pleuritis and t3'phoid
pneumonia are added to their list of evils. In 1845, the Osages numbered about 6,000 ; in
1851, 5,000 ; at the enrolment of 1852, it is expected, by those best informed on the subject,
that this will be reduced to 3,500. Epidemics of eruptive fever have prevailed, but at intervals
so remote that it is impossible to gather any correct data of their history, character, and result.
During the past winter and spring, an epidemic of typhoid measles has more than decimated
the tribe.
The adjacent country to the east, and within the State of Missouri, presents similar physical
aspects to that of this immediate vicinity. It is but sparsely settled by agriculturists, who
merely cultivate enough land to supply themselves and families with the bare necessaries of life.
For the convenience of wood and water, their log cabins are placed upon the banks of streams,
or the nearest ground not subject to overflow. Clearings are rarely made ; their farms, in most
instances, running along the edge of timber into the prairie. Ignorant, without energy, indus-
try, or foresight, the population is principally composed of those whom cheap and rich lands
have drawn from the older States, and whose only aim is an easy life — another term for a mid-
way course between idleness and starvation, or labor and abundance. Being but indifferently
sheltered, insufiiciently clothed, and by no means generously fed, they resist disease badly, and
climatic vicissitudes, endemial epidemics, or contagious fevers, which would be comparatively
unimportant among the troops, assume an alarming consequence with them. The winter
months are considered the most unhealthy ; typhoid i:ineumonia (known as the winter fever)
being the prevalent and important disease, and, as they are dependent upon steam doctors and
patent medicines, it generally terminates fatally.
The records of the post showing so great a proportion of malarious fevers, an exi^lanation is
required of the statement tliat no appreciable local cause for them can be said to exist in this
vicinity. This explanation may be found in the history of the occupations, habits, and exi)osures
of the troops; the meteorological conditions of the seasons when most prevalent; and in what
I conceive to be the general characteristics of rich prairie country.
From the occupation of the post until late in November, the command was in tents, and every
available man was engaged upon fatigue duty, being employed in the erection of temporary log
buiklings. Assistant Surgeon Simpson, in reporting the medical topography of the i)ost (June,
1842), says: "The only cause of sickness I can see will be the employment of the men on fatigue
duty in the rich bottom-lands immediately on the river. But diseases arising from this cause
must be diminished in proportion as the land is cleared and cultivated." In the last quarter
of 1842, 116 cases of intermittent are reported, with the remark by Assistant Surgeoi^ Walker,
that " the exposure of the men on fatigue duty in the bottoms must account for the greater
prevalence of intermittent fever than miglit be expected." During the first quarter of 1843,
s. 9« 21
162 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
70 cases of intermittent, and 47 of catarrh, are reported ; Dr. Walker accounting tlierefor
' ' by the unusually severe weatlier , and the exposure of the command in various ways to it. " In
tlie second quarter, 83 cases of intermittent are reported, although the command was reduced
hy the dejjarture of one company of dragoons for tlie plains. Dr. W. remarks: " Tlie fatigue
duties of the command must be considered the indirect cause of a large proportion of the fevers
and diseases of tlic rcsfjiratory system ; at the same time, it is difficult to say wlicther this pro-
duces a greater amount of disease than the abuse of ardent sj)irits, and the exposure undergone
in procuring it." On the 25th July the dragoons returned from the plains, and by the 30th
September tlie number of cases of intermittent had increased to 159 ; an epidemic of influenza
also prevailed, assuming an intermittent type. During this quarter 12.79 inches of rain had
fallen. Although 127 cases of intermittent are reported during the fourth quarter, a majority
of them were relapses on the seventh, fourteenth, and twenty-first days; the air was becoming
purified by the prairie-fires, and but 5.46 inches of rain had fallen during the three months. On
the 31st March, 1844, only 42 cases of intermittent are reported; the men were still constantly
engaged on fatigue duties in the bottom-lands ; but a temperance reform had been started, and
much of the night exposure was thus done away with. During the second quarter, "the men
have been very much exposed to rain, which has i'allen in unusual quantities," and the number
of intermittents was 73 — the weather being remarkably dry and mild during the remainder of
the year; and, until June, 1845, the proportion of malarious fevers was greatly reduced. The
annual rains did not set in until late in June, and in September Doctor Walker reports :
" Intermittent fevers constitute three-fourths of the cases occurring during the quarter; 114
have occurred in September; they have also been unusually prevalent throughout the country
arountl us; but the circumstances of the companies have increased it still more with us, as they
have been, previous to their arrival here, living upon commissary rations ; here, they indulged
in a variety of vegetables, melons, green apples, &c., to an unlimited extent." By this time,
most of the permanent works were completed ; the fatigue duties were less arduous, and the
men were very comfortably quartered. The spring of 1846 was very dry, the rains not com-
mencing until July, and a healthy season was predicted ; but the reports of the third and fourth
quarters show a jiroportion of seven-eighths of intermittent to all other diseases. From this
time a gradual decrease appears, until, in the last quarter, 1848, the proportion was only one-
twentieth of all other diseases.
Did the medical history of Fort Scott terminate hero, the above remarks might be considered
amply explanatory of the prevalence of malarious fevers. The large amount of timber cut for
building purposes, leaving the bottom-lands covered with immense quantities of decaying
vegetable matter — the duties of the troops requiring unusual exposure to the sun and rain in the
midst of its exhalations — would appear to predispose to such afiections ; and the prediction that
these diseases would diminish in frequency with the completion of the post, would seem to be
verified. But this is not the case. After an interval of some years, malarious fevers again
appeared, and, during the third quarter of 1851, reached the proportion of two hundred and
fifty per cent, to all other diseases. They also prevailed to an extent hitherto unknown
throughout the surrounding country. So intense was the malarial influence, that no one
escaped, no precautions were of avail ; the youngest infant, as well as the most robust adult,
was affected; and all other forms of disease were influenced and modified by it. Ejiizootics
appeared ; in some districts hundreds of young cattle, in others all the horses sickened
and died, with every aiipearance of sudden and violent congestion. The circumstances
which had been considered prolific causes of disease in previous years, had ceased to exist ; the
troops were but little exposed ; their fatigue duties were light, and did not require them to be
in the woods or bottom-lands more than an hour or two, occasionally ; the emigration into the
country was small, and but few new farms were oj^ened. We must, therefore, look to other
than these causes for an explanation, which I believe can be found to exist in " the general
characteristics of rich prairie lands, and the influence of diflcrent seasons upon them." It will
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION. 163
be found, although the different varieties of gramineous plants are considered the usual growth
of prairies, that, in some sections, these are almost entirely crowded out hy a stronger and
larger growth of other species. The richer the soil, the greater the predominance of the latter
growth — amounting, in some instances, to an almost entire exclusion of the grasses; so that, in
the language of the country, a distinction is made between grass prairies and weed prairies ;
the latter being the character of much of this section of country. This distinction is not
confined to any one locality ; it is noticeable in Texas, where the difference between the mes-
quite-grass prairies of the west, and the weed prairies nearer the coast, is quite as decided in
salubrity as in vegetable productions. It will be found, also, throughout the vast extent of
uncultivated lands, lying upon our western and northwestern frontiers, that the rains are peri-
odical, occurring, for the most part, in spring and winter; the intermediate times being com-
paratively dry.
The time of the spring rains affects the growth of these prairies much more than the quan-
tity, and upon a supply of moisture at a certain period the vegetation of tlie year will princi-
pally depend. In an ordinarily productive and healthy .season, the spring rains commence in
April, and do not continue beyond the middle of May; the weeds and grasses shoot up rapidly,
are fully matured in July, desiccation commences in August, and in September the horizon be-
comes smoky from numerous fires, which, extending, sweep off the greater portion of the year's
growth. Should, however, the spring rains not set in until June or July, the weeds will have
withstood the drought better than the grasses, and will then start into rank luxuriance, the
prairies remain green until late in the fall, and the winter rains commence before desiccation is
completed, or the surface burned over. That the growth, as well as the decay of this vast
amount of vegetable matter, spread over the entire region so controlled, generates a malarial
influence, either by I he evolution of miasma, or, as is most probable, by the development of
organic germs (cryptogamous growths in such seasons being inconceivably abundant), can
hardly be questioned. The epidemics of 1843, 1845, and 1851 commenced while the prairies
were still clothed with verdure, and reached their acme before decomposition was established ;
the striking feature of resemblance in these seasons being the lateness of the spring rains.
Summer showers, and the longer rains of September and October, can have but little influence
upon this production, although undoubtedly increasing the liability to a recurrence of attack.
Their effect upon the soil and water-courses is very temporary ; and by removing quantities of
leaves and other debris, should be rather beneficial than otherwise. The deductions from these
observations are in accordance with the experience of the oldest residents of the country, who
(without recognizing their mode of action) look to the early commencement of the spring rains
as the harbinger of a healthy summer and fall, and«^7'ce versa.
A marked relation may be observed between the jirevalence of diseases of the respiratory
organs, and the pre-existence of malarious fevers. Among the country people, a severe winter
following upon an epidemic of intermittent, produces much mortality ; for either through the
debilitating effect of long exposure to malarial influences, or a predisposition induced directly
by them, pneumonia, pleuritis, and pleura-pneumonia usually assume a typhoid form.
Were it possible to institute a statistical comparison between the sickness and mortality of
the troops, and an equal number of persons in any portion of this country, I am convinced
that, making the fullest allowance for the superior comforts of the former, the advantages of
discipline, strict police, and prompt medical attendance, the difference in their favor would be
so striking as to clearly indicate the greater healthiness of location, and tlie entire absence of
any purely local cause of disease.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT ATKINSON.
By Assistant Surgeon AquUa T. RiJgely : 1852.
Fort Atkinson is situated upon the Arkansas river, in latitude 37° 46', longitude 99° 40',
twenty-six miles below the "crossing of the Arkansas," and 74.07 miles above the crossing of
the Pawnee fork.
The river at this point is about 450 or 500 feet in breadth, from bank to bank. During the
1G4 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
last twelve montlis, the eliannel has usually covered tliewliole bed of the river ; l)ut i'or a por-
tion of the siuninor and autumn of 1851 there was no water flowing, save what permeated tlie
sand. In conseqnenee of its frcr[uent rise and fall, the depth of the river cannot be definitely
determined ; but at all times since the establishment of this post it has been fordable for liorMcs,
and most commonly for wagons ; and since January 1st, 1852, its average depth, in the vicinity
of the post, has probably been two feet.
The river-bottom, at and near the post, is about three-fourths of a mile in breadth from blutF
to bluff, tliough it is constantly changing in this respect as we ascend or descend its course.
Stretching out on either side from the valley, are the bluifs, which, upon the north, rise with
some regularity and uniformity to the high and rolling prairie beyond; while, proceeding
toward the soutK, they are far more broken before we attain the summit of the river range.
The whole country, for miles in all directions, is one vast prairie, unbroken, save here and
there by some small creek, whose banks are sparsely garnished by a few trees of stunted growth.
The soil, botli north and south of the river-bottom, is sandy in its nature, and exceedingly
sterile. The sandy character of the soil is more marked ujion the south than upon the north
of the river, while upon the latter side a substratum of dense white clay has been found, so
hard as to be blasted with considerable success in excavating. The buffalo and the gramma
grasses grow upon the hills and high country, whilst the longer and coarser varieties of the
meadow flourish in the Arkansas bottom alone. The prairie is well drained by ravines, and is
consequently dry, except immediately after a rain or the melting of snow. Small pools may,
however, be seen occasionally upon the hills, and very often in the river-bottom.
Various varieties of sandstone may be found within twenty miles of the post. Limestone,
jiroducing lime of an inferior quality, is abundant. Specimens of slate have been seen in the
vicinity, and iron-ore has been deposited in large quantities about 100 miles towards the east,
and, as is said by the Indians, towards the north, upon the Smoky Hill fork of the Kansas.
Tlie banks of tlie Arkansas, for many days' march from the post, are almost entirely desti-
tute of timber. It is upon the creeks, north and south of the river, that we depend for fuel,
which is composed of the following kinds : the Cottonwood, the ash, the elm, the hackberry,
and tlie coflee-bean.* The comparative frequency with which they occur is denoted by the
order in which they are mentioned, the cottonwood being by far the most abundant. Tlie wild
grape, small bushes of the plum, and the willow, are also met with on the banks of the streams.
Among the plants, those which are most numerous are various varieties of the cactus, the this-
tle, the wild gourd, and the American sunflower.
The animals frequenting the adjacent country are the wild horse, the buffalo, the elk, the
deer, the antelope, the prairie hare, the white wolf, the prairie wolf, the prairie fox, the prairie
dog, the gopher, the ground-squirrel, the badger, the raccoon, the otter, the beaver, the rattle-
snake, and several other prairie snakes ; the horned frog, the toad, the lizard, the mouse, the
spider, the grasshopper, and insects of almost every kind.
The birds wliich I have observed are the eagle, the hawk, the owl, the raven, the buzzard,
the meadow-lark, tlie sky-lark, the dove, the flicker, the swan, the goose, the duck, the plover,
the snipe, and the sparrow. In addition to the above, I have seen one robin.
Tlie exact lieight of tliis post above the level of the sea is unknown ; but, by comparing it
with that of the crossing of the Pawnee fork, as given by Brevet Major William H. Emory,
topographical engineers, it is probably about 2,487 feet. In consequence of this considerable
elevation, the atmosphere is exceedingly rarified, as is painfully evident in the labored respira-
tion of unacelimated man or beast when in the performance of unaccustomed exercise. It is,
moreover, unusually dry, and is almost entirely exempt from those fogs and mists which are so
common in more eastern localities. The presence and continuance of high and blustering
winds is a characteristic of the place. I believe that sudden and extreme vicissitudes of tem-
" The name of this last tree I have given as it is known in this country. It is most probably a species of locust; is
tall and slender, and bears a pod some six or seven inches in length, containing seeds about the size of a large chestnut.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION, 165
perature, as Indicated by the thermometer, do not so often occur witli ns as at more eastern
points upon the same parallel of latitude. The heat of summer is tempered by the prairie
breeze, and there are few daj^s in winter when intense cold prevails. Since the establishment of
the post, the mercury has but rarely risen above 90° Fah., and but once as high as 96°. 50; it
has been below zero but on a few occasions, and never lower than — 12°.
In order that a clear and comprehensive view may be had of the diseases usually prevailing
at Fort Atkinson, the accompanying table* has been jirepared, which is a synopsis of all the
quarterly reports of sick and wounded from this post since its establishment. The diseases
which first attract attention, from their position upon the list, as well as from their numerical
importance, are intermittent and remittent fevers. With an average mean strength for the
eight quarters of 80.62 men, there has been an average of nine cases per quarter of malarious
i'cver. This, though not a very large percentage, is sufficiently so to tend to establish the con-
clusion that this is a malarious district. As, however, the existence or non-existence of malaria
in any given locality is a question not only interesting to the medical world, but deserving the
utmost consideration in the establishment of posts, it is desirable that a false impression should
not be created. Reasoning from what is known of the habitats of miasmata, their generation
could never have been anticipated in a country so circumstanced as this. The conditions sup-
posed to favor their production do not exist. The scant growth of the prairies affords but little
vegetable decay. The almost total absence of timber also conduces to this end. Instead of
marshes, we have high, and, for the most part, dry prairie, and a river-bottom which is nowhere
boggy, and has no extensive pools. Even supposing that pestiferous miasmata were generated,
it seems most likely that their accumulation in sufficient intensity to produce disease would be
frustrated by the winds which so commonly jirevail. As, however, malarious diseases have
been known to infect countries destitute of marshes, and whose sandy and barren soil afforded
but little vegetation, we might still remain in doubt, had we not a history of the cases -which
have occurred at the post, to which we may refer.
From the peculiar situation of this post, communication between it and the valley of the
Missouri is very frequent. Not only do recruits for the command come to us by way of Leav-
enworth, but it often becomes necessary to send detachments to that post. Periodical lever is
very usual on the Missouri, as it is also at Council Grove, and perhaps other points on the
route ; and it is almost exclusively in the persons of those who have recently returned from the
States that the disease manifests itself. Of a detachment of eight, who had just arrived, I
have known seven to be taken with the fever upon the road, or immediately after going into
quarters. The exceptions to this rule have been exceedingly rare ; and they are divested of
much of their importance when we consider the fact that persons who have once been subjects
of the disease are liable to its recurrence, even after they have been removed from the foci of in-
fection. The readiness with which the disease yields to a^Dpropriate remedies would also go to
show that it was not "a native here, and to the manor born."
From a review of these considerations, I think that we may safely draw the following deduc-
tions: 1st. That periodical fevers occur at this post ; 2d. That they have not their origin in
tlie vicinity ; 3d. That they originate in the Missouri valley, or upon the route between the
Missouri and Fort Atkinson ; 4th. That, from its necessary connexion with the Missouri, any
post which may be established upon this route will be liable to malarious diseases.
The next feature in the table which, upon examination, appears worthy of note, is the great
frequency of diseases of the digestive organs. With a mean strength of 80.62 men, there are
reported 130 cases of these diseases, for the eight quarters, or an average of 1G.25 cases per
quarter. This is in striking contrast with diseases of the respiratory organs ; for, with the same
mean strength, there were, for the eight quarters, but eight instances of this latter class, or an
average of one case per quarter. I can only attribute this almost entire immunity from intra-
thoracic disease to the great dryness of the atmosphere which usually characterizes this portion
•s Table omitted, as in otlier similar cases; see Introduction, page 5. — C.
160 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
of "the Plains." I can see nothing in the peculiarities of the location, in itself, calculated to
induce diseases of the digestive organs, hut rather attrihiite their occurrence to the habits and
mode of life of the men composing the command. Since the establishment of the ])ost, the gar-
rison has been at almost constant lalior, whenever the season would permit. The gathering of
supplies for the winter, tlie construction of fortifications, the renewal of tailing houses, the
exploration of tlie surrounding country, — these are the duties which, in addition to their regular
guard duty, company "D," (Jth infantry, has been re(iuired to perform. Sueli employments
have exjjosed them to the unmitigated heat of summer, and thus rendered them liable to abdom-
inal disease upon the first irregularity or imprudence in diet Accordingly, we find that, of
the loO cases reported, 70 occurred in the months of July, August, and September. There are,
besides, reasons why the men of this command should be predisposed to disease of almost every
kind, but more especially to those of which we are speaking. The (piarters, in consequence of
a scarcity of timber, are built of sod, and were thrown up hastily (though not until one snow
had whitened the uncovered walls), in order, as was supposed, to obtain shelter from the storms
of one winter. They are badly ventilated, nor can they be improved without endangering the
stability of the structure. With a few exceptions, all the members of the company, wlio are
not in the hospital, sleep in one apartment, and that is a small ohe for the purpose. The bunks
are constructed in three rows, the one above another, with about two feet intervening between
the rows. They are built against the wall, and consequently there is merely the opening in
front through which the air may obtain ingress and egress. Can it surprise one, that men so
situated should be liable to disease?
There remains but one other disease which requires mention ; and I refer to it, not for the
purpose of aflbrding materials from which a new theory may be formed, but in order to call
attention to a fact, which has been long known, and which should never be lost sight of.
The post was thrown up in the autumn of 1850. During the first and second quarters of 1851,
there were 18 cases of scorbutus entered uiion the hospital register. This, however, did not
comprise the whole number of cases which occurred at the post. In his quarterly report for the
first quarter of 1851, Assistant Surgeon Langworthy wrote as follows : "I have reported hut
12 eases of this disease in my quarterly report, on this account — to wit: that only that number
were actually incapacitated and unfit for duty iji foto, and received on the sick report. A much
larger number received medicine." A supply of potatoes was procured, and soon after their
reception the disease began to give way. In order to guard against its recurrence, attempts
were made to cultivate a garden. This proved unsuccessful^ on account of a deficiency of moist-
ure. As it was apprehended that the disease would prevail with as great or greater severity
in the following winter and spring than it had done in the past, potatoes were procured from
the States during the autumn of 1851, by private contributions of members of the command,
and served out to them twice per week. In consequence of this step, as I believe, the disease
has not since made its appearance. Another supply of the same vegetable has been obtained,
and I indulge the hope that we shall see as little of scorbutus, during the winter of 1852-'53,
as we did in the one that preceded it.
The remainder of the diseases reported cannot be said to prevail at tlie post, but are such as
are incidental to every climate, and to men imder all circumstances of life. If there be any
peculiarity which marks them, it is the mildness of their form. The only maladies wliich have
proved at all obstinate since my sojourn at the post (i. e. since Sej^tember, 1851), have been
those of the alimentary canal. As a proof of the want of severity in the cases imder treatment,
it is only necessary to state that, for the last fifteen months, not a death has occurred in the
command.
In consequence of their roving life, I have had hut slight opportunities of making myself
acquainted with the diseases of the Indian tribes. I have seen many Indians, but none of them
during many consecutive days. My attention has been called to many maladies, but I have
had opportunities of observing the progress and termination of but few. Those which I have
noticed most frequently are venereal diseases in their various forms, ophthalmia, bronchitis.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION. 167
rheumatism, and ulcers of the leg. I have also seen cases of ascites, diseases of the urinary
organs^ and diarrhoea. Wounds and injuries, resulting from their hunting the buffalo, and
from their wafjing war upon one another, are very common. Cephalalgia, dependent upon a
deranged condition of the digestive organs, is very frequent among them, and is, in mo.st in-
stances, speedily removed by a dose of calomel and rhubarb, or calomel and jalap. I have been
often ajjplied to for remedies for impotency, probably induced by a plurality of wives, and by
j)remature and excessive venery.
I have found their diseases similar in character to those of the same name in the white man,
and amenable to the same rules of treatment.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT RILET.
By Assistant Surgeon Joseph K. Barnes : 185.3.
Fort Eiley is situated upon the west bank of the Pawnee river, in longitude 96° 30' W.,
latitude 39^, immediately opposite its junction with the " Smoky Hill" fork to form the Kan-
sas river. Upon recent maps the name has been changed to " Republican," although it is
only known as the "Pawnee" by the Indians, who also call the principal branch "Kansas" as
high up as the mouth of "Great Saline" fork. These two streams — one flowing S.E., the other
N.E. — form two valleys, varying in width from one to three miles, and bounded on either side
by lofty ranges of limestone bluffs. The valley of the "Kansas" is the continuation of these
to the southeast, and varies from a few hundred yards to several miles in width.
The site selected for the post is a bench or plateau of prairie, midway from the river and
bluff, with an elevation of fifty or sixty feet above the heavily timbered bottom to the east, and
protected on the northwest by a limestone ridge 150 to 200 feet in height. Tlie distance from
the base of the bluffs to the river is 2, .500 yards, and the entire width of the gorge from ea.st to
west nearly three miles. The direction of the valleys gives a corresponding direction to tlie
lower currents of air ; those passing from the southward must come through the openings to
the S.E. or S.W., while those from the northward pass up the gorge to the N.E.; and, in con-
sec^uence, a perfectly calm day is very rare, a breeze from one of these points being of almost
constant occurrence. The soil, on the hill-sides, intermediate plain, and river-bottom, is a
pale yellow loam, with a large proportion of silicious sand. The river banks (with the excep-
tion of a few inches in depth of alluvion), its bed and bars, are mostly quicksand. Although
subject to great and sudden increase of volume during the rainy season, the Pawnee rarely or
never overflows its banks, and, upon its subsidence, leaves no marshes, alluvial bottoms, or stag-
nant pools. The numerous creeks emptying into it at short intervals, are rapid currents rising
from copious springs in the bluffs, whose outlets are worn by the heavy rains of spring and
summer into deep canons.
The bottom-lauds near the river bank are generally covered with a heavy growth of oak,
sycamore, Cottonwood, coffee-bean, hackberry, and walnut, which in some places extend as far
back as the second plateau, and follow the creeks and caiions to their heads; although, in others,
the prairie continues, by a gradual descent from the base of the bluffs to the river, free from
trees or undergrowth. During the summer the troops have been supplied with water from a
large and unfailing spring, the low temperature of which renders it preferable to that of the
river, which is in every respect equal to that of the Missouri.
The buildings in course of erection are judiciously situated with regard to natural drainage;
are commodious and well ventilated, with walls of porous limestone, which will be equal in ■
dryness to those of the best quality of brick.
Since the 20th of May, large quantities of timber have been cut in the bottoms, leaving the
ground cumbered with decaying tree-tops, branches, and foliage, without any perceptible efiect
upon the health of the troops ; the parties at work near the river being quite as free from dis-
ease as those at the quarries ; not a single ornjinal case of malarial fever having appeared
168
REPORT ON TUE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
among them. The dryness and equable (although high) degree of heat during August and
September, doubtless, tended materially to this exemption ; but, after a careful examination of
the surrounding country, and in the absence of all the usually considered "local causes," or
the proximity of rich prairie land, I should anticipate that this post will remain comparatively
free from malarial disease.
In the winter months, from its elevation — being at least 1,000 feet above the Missouri level
at Kansas — its position in the centre of a funnel-shajied gorge open to the northeast, and the
almost constant ])revaleuce of high winds, it will proljably prove exceedingly cold and wet, and
productive of many cases of disease of the "respiratory organs" and "fibrous structures."
DISEASES.
TABLE EXHIUITING THE EATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quaners.
Meaii strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
RATIO PER 1,000 OF MEAN STRENGTH.
Treated.
Died.
5,647
5,690
4,572
5,367
4,573
5,253
5,676
5,427
39
75
37
16
809
921
1,241
1,011
7
13
Tliird iiuartcr. ...
8
Fourth (iiuirtcr-
3
Annual ratio
5,319
20,929
167
3,934
31
Exclusive of cholera. ......
20,804
107
3,911
20
The annual proportion of sickness, in this class of posts, to the number of men, is 3.93 to 1 ;
the corresponding ratio of deaths 1 in 32, or 3.1 per cent.; and the jiroportion of deaths to
cases treated 1 in 129, or 0.8 per cent. Excluding the sickness and mortality from cholera,
the ratio of deaths to the mean strength is 1 in 49, or 2 per cent.
FEVERS.
2
o
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
roDRTn.
YEAR.
■S
u
o i
1°
1
g
fe 1
5,647
5,690
4,572
5,367
5,
319
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deatlis.
Cases.
Dcatlis.
Cases.
Deatlis.
o a
Fcbrls congestiva ,
1
1
7
3
9
3
liu 3
1.6
Febris continiia comnmnis —
4
12
1
7
13
1
36
2
1 in 18
C.7
Febris intermittens quotidiana
241
481
1123
1001
2846
in 2846
535
Febris intermittens tertiana .
401
817
666
1
675
2559
1
1 in 2559
481
Febris intermittens quartana.
4
8
18
10
40
Oin 40
7.5
Febris rcmittens ....
23
2
42
2
1
1
152
3
67
5
1
284
9
5
1
lin 57
lin 9
53
Kcbris tvnliiis -- -
1.6
Total
676
1363
3
1973
7
1771
2
5783
12
lia 482
1087
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
169
Eruptive Fevers. — In this class, we have merely to note the prevalence of rubeola at Fort
Leavenworth, in the second quarters of 1846 and 1848. At each of those periods the command
was partly volunteers, and no separate reports for the regular troops were rendered. This is
the only instance in which the statistics of otlier than regular troops are given in this report ;
separate and distinct reports being required for volunteers. In this instance, these reports
would have been excluded, but for the fact that a comparatively large number of regular troops
were then at that post.
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarte
Streiis'th .
Diseases.
Cliolora iVsiatica
Dianlioja
Dysenteria acuta
Dysenteria chronica
Enteritis
Hepatitis acuta
Hepatitis chronica
Obstipatio
All other diseases of this
system
Total .
Exclusive of cholera.
o,6i1
5,G90
Cases. Deaths.; Cases. Deaths
6
306
87
5
i
8
3
lie
174
709
619
134
2
6
14
2
164
226
1255
44
1
3
2
50
4,572
5, 367
Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths
31
676
272
6
2
7
3
179
261
1437
14
4
18
559
130
8
3
6
4
114
152
976
5,319
Cases. Deaths.
125
2160
623
21
15
35
12
573
813
4377
4252
60
3
10
4
1 in 2. 1
1 in 720
1 in
in
1 in
in
in
62
21
4
35
12
m 573
1 in 813
78
1 in 56
18
1 in 237
406
117
4
2.8
6.5
2
107
152
823
799
The only station in the class now under consideration, which has been visited to any extent
by cholera during the period embraced in this report, is Fort Leavenworth, where the first case
is reported in January, 1849. Surgeon McDougall, in transmitting his report of sick for the
third quarter 1848, remarks that " the whole command has been more or less aifected with
diarrhoea, which has prevailed extensively throughout the country ; perhaps more owing to an
epidemic constitution of the atmosphere than to the usual causes." In the next quarterly
report, December, 1848, the same surgeon comments upon tlie marked exemption of the troops
from miasmatic diseases, which lie attributes to the limited inundations of the Missouri river,
and upon the prevalence of diarrhoea. He also notes the fact that all diseases are of a marked
asthenic character; which is again stated to be the case in the next report, (that for the first
three months of 1849,) when cholera made its appearance, and continued, some cases being
reported each month, till some time in August. In the spring of the next year (1850) Surgeon
McDougall again comments upon the evident disposition to diarrhcea, or typhoid prostration,
although no epidemic prevailed. In July of that year cholera cases are again reported ; and
once more this disease reappears in May, June, and July, 1851. Two cases are reported in
May, 1852, and seven in June, 1854. The original reports contain no notes respecting the
character or treatment of this disease. In explanation of the frequent recurrence of cholera
at this post, it may be remarked that it is used as a general depot of supplies, and as a starting-
point or rendezvous for troops on the march to New Mexico and to the stations on the Great
S. 96 22
170
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY — MIDDLE DIVISION.
Plains. The reports show that the disease was brought with troops from St. Louis; most of
the commands having sufiered from this disease in ascending the Missouri.
DISEASES OF THE KESPIEATORY SYSTEM.
Quarters
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
TEAR.
S
•S
a
11
1
£
"t
Strength
5,647
5,
590
i,
572
5,
367
5,
319
!i
■o S
r
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Bronchitis acuta et chronica..
Catarrhus
86
656
5
63
29
11
1
10
3
70
208
9
76
27
19
1
1
1
1
2
14
268
8
35
22
6
2
98
451
6
59
25
4
2
268
1583
28
233
103
40
2
1
13
1
7
1 in 134
1 in 1583
1 in 2
1 in 233
1 in 14.7
in 40
50
297
Phthisis pulmonalis ......
5.2
Pleuritis .. .. . ...
43
19
All other diseases of this sys-
tem
7
Total
850
14
409
6
353
2
643
2
2255
24
lin 94
423
Rheumatismus
272
209
148
213
842
in 842
158
Catarrhus Epidemicus — Is noted as commencing suddenly early in July, 1843, at Leaven-
worth, and terminating abruptly on the last day of August.- This disease also prevailed at
Fort Scott during the months of August and September. Forts Atkinson and Riley were not
then established.
ABSTEACTS
PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
OCCURKING AMONG THE TROOPS
MIDDLE DIVISION.
172
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
FIRST aUARTER.
1839.
1810.
1841. 1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
14.
121.
158. 416.
776. 664.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.' Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
1
1
7
1
1
1
3
2
9
i ...
1
3
1
1
1
Fevers ■
1
4
3
1
^
1
i
.
•
1
6
13
14
16
4
11
16
1
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
gestive system.
1
9
12
3
3
6
16
3
14
2
68
All other diseases of this system
1
1
2
6
40
72
107
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
1
2
1
■2
1
2
2
1
3
4
2
5
2
4
1
1
1
3
6
Diseases of tlie brain and
1
nervous system.
3
15
1
.
6
1
4
3
S
Diseases of the urinary-
4
1
1
1
5
I
11
and genital organs.
4
5
1
1
and exhalent vessels. (
1
1
2
1
Diseases of the fibrous &
muscular structures.
Rheumatismus, acutus et chronicus
3
14
3
12
19
23
2
3
4
3
13
5
1
19
3
1
I
1 ..
2
10
16
7
1
1
7
8
25
j
2
5
6
1
1
15
8
Wounds and injuries..., ■
1
•
5
5
5
3
1
1
2
3
!
r
i
3
2
3
4
4
1
1
4
1
1
1
5
2
3
3
Miscellaneous ■
1
1
1
4
3
5
6
8
Total
16
78
2
86
187
S71
1
304
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TKOOPS AT POSTS IN THE MIDDLE ATLANTIC REGION.
173
*
FIRST QUARTER.
AGGREGATB
STRENOTU.
1
i
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
618.
466.
172.
53. 361.
310. 371.
404.
396.
391. 5,693.
Casea.l Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases. Died. Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total Tola!
cases, died.
1
1
1
8
!
1
1
1
3
19
1
2
1
5
32
181
9
19
3
8
3
8
9
4
■
13
3
12
9
5
29
20
55
1
j
1
1
i
1
1
4
1
1
3
1
1
8
2
3
1
!
:::.:::.:::
i
•
4 1
1
4
2
4
1
14
2
8
2
12
18
2
10
1
7
5
131
58
6
1
1
91
157
15
669
1
^
29
21
13
16
22
9
13
113
1
45
13
44
1
5
6
3
166
3
100
47
10
13
3£
7
11
67
54
13
7
;
1
3
1
I
2
22
3
62
2
5
1
27
1
3
5
2-2
1
1
12
10
1
37
7
2
2
19
1
16
9
"
29
9
18
1
4G
16
12
1
42
8
1
1
36
1
77
2
1
2
2
1
2
4
1
5
6
2
5
7
1
1
I
3
1
2
*
I
2
1 9
1
2
1
1
1
2
4
4
1
1
1
5
1
1
4
2
3
5
1
1 1
3 1
2
12
1
»
1
9
3
4
2
4
19
14
3
7
1
3
3
I
7 '
2
St
3
2
5
2
3
3
1
2
1
3
1
I
1
3
6
4
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
14
............ ^......
1
10
10
3
1
8
1
3
1
....
22
5
14
2
10
7
10
11
3
1
S
1
1
10
3
1
8
4
a
3
6
3
....
1
3
8
30
2
3
8
6
3
8
4
13
1
1
25
30
1
1
11
7
1
16
2
2
1
13
36
1
I
1
2
1
5
1
5
6
]
4
3
2 ;
2
4
4
5
2
2
2
1
.
.^. ":::"■
5
4
3
3
11 1
1
a
11
.... - -
7
3 .::
1
.1 7
10
1
1
3
1
1
14
13
1
1
1
3
3
3
4
I
1
1
14
40
4
3
5
3
3
27
1
5
3
7
4
2
13
8
an
1
34
11
150
1
259
2
116 ]
145
2
12 i**'^-! ^
133
2
263
3
243
1
245
1
341
3
2,804
19
174
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE I'RINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
*
Vears
SECOND QUARTER. |
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
1839.
1840.
18-tl.
1842.
1843. 1 1844.
1
Mean STRENGTH
41.
139.
138.
357.
759. 1 684.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Oaseii
Died.
Cases.
1
Died. iCase*
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases
1
1 Died.
Fcbris continua communis
1
6
3
9
12
4
1
6
3
! 10
9
22
2
1
13
Febris intermittens quartniia
2
4
....
1
Febris typhus
!
t
f
•
Eruptive (bvurs
Rubeola..
1
Varioloid
5
4
8
10
1
3
16
15
13
4
1
29
34
Discuses of the organs
connecicd with the di-
! a
,
1
1
11
16
Hepatitis chronica
1
1
■■
1
gCBtivc system.
3
2
1
1
i '
IB
9 1
22 1--- -
■
2
40
1
Catarrhus
2
6
1 16
1
1
39
47
1 1
1 : 1
4
2
1
3 1
Diseases of the rcRpira-
1
tor>' system.
'
D
2
1
1
1
Diseases oithc hraiii and
1
1
9
nervous leystom.
All other diseases of Uiis system
Gonorrhoea
2
4
; ft
1
2
1
10
Strictura urethrre ..
DiseaKCs of the urinary
1
6
2
10
1
4
1 1
and genital organs.
1
4
2
6
S
1
Diseases of the serous r
1
Diseases of the fibrous &
Pernio
Portapra
muscular structures.
3
2
'2
19
15
Fistula
Phlegmon et absccssus
1
s
20
14
1
9
10
3
Ulcus
1
1
Amputatio
:::::::;;::.
1
6
1
13
2
1
17
21
Fraclura ....
Wounds and injurlop
,
1
9
8
Sub-luxatio
1
7
8
4
1
3
::;::;;::;.
Vulnu.s puiictuni ,
2
1
o
Debilitas
:::"';::::::i
2
3
6
2
Ebrietas
a
R
3
3
1
1
1
Hernia
MisccHoncoua
Morbi cutis «.
1
9 i
Morbi oeuli
1
3
1
3
1 ::::::i
1
Suicidium ,
I
3
3
1
12
4
Total
13
77
55
2 1<«!
3
301
3
376
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE MIDDLE ATLANTIC REGION.
115
SECOND QUARTER.
1845. 1846.
1847.
1848,
1849.
1850.
185L
1852. i 1853.
1
1854.
STRENOTB.
674.
329.
44.
280.
281.
435.
440.
398. 373.
479.
5,841.
Cases.
Died. Cases. Died. (
;ase».
Died. Cases. Died. Cases.
1 ' 1
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.! Died.
1
Cases.j Died.
1
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Total Total
cases. ' died. .
1
'
1
1
2 1 4
1
1 3 17
12
IS
1
1
1
1 1
19
14
1 1 3 1
U
33
i 1
6
15 ,
t
24 j
1
a
IS
1
3
27 ;
16
1
3
1
! 60
i
289
20 ;
! -
s
7
38 1
1 1
....
1
2
2
2 1
1
;
1 1
•
4 !
1
3
4
! I
1 i
3.1
2
346
192
36
3
- !
60
31
3
34 1
32
45
27
3
4
11
4
6 4
1 1
....
":;■:: ...:.i
15
<^ 1
2
1
6
5
17
: 1 1
10
•*
-
:;::::
1
25
35
3
28
1
8 1
18 1
21
4
27
1
4
1
2
7
11
1
14
12
1
39
7
24 I
21 I 1
1
15
15
9
16
1 14
1
3
21
1 2
' 36
.....
195
203 1
18 i 1
11
27
»2
17
2
364
3
5
■■■a'--::!
6 1
1
2
1
4
1
23
15
1
5
, i _ _ _
::::::!:::::::::;::
1 1
1 j
1
1
7
1
1
2 '
9
32
1-!
4 ;
8
23
iia
1
.58
9
47
2
3
2
1
10
1
3
3 '■
2
2
3
1
1
12
15
1
3
1
1
1
1
3
1
13
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
a
13
1
6
2
7
7
6
4
6
....
10
2
3
1
3
1
1
6
3
1
1 5
2
8
. ... 1
6
3
1
1
1
3
2
1
I
1 1
1
1
1
1
1
1
' 8
10
4
"
1
170
1
109
74
5
1
! 266
' 9
U
70
38
11
8
4
12
34
6
6
15
18
14
14
1
17
6
15
7
6
1
1
4
4
6
8
3
"" 1
1 15
j 4
16
4
4
3
12
1
; '
1
39
1
37
1
1
11
1
2
a
8
2
4
t
14
2
1
22 1
16
23
; 3
ft
24
1
1 '
C
1
10
3
[
'1
1
4
3
3 1
1
4
J
3
1
?
] 1
t
G .■>
2
1
'
2
'
. 1
1
1
]
1
1 , ! ,
^
2
G
i
i
1 2 ■ .
3
9
I
1 2
1
1
1
1
■A
i
1
1
i
13
9
13
1
5
1 ■■"
4
1
1
1
1
1
! ( 1
I .
1
C
1
3
■> , i "
1 ,
. I.
4
2
5
47
3
a
I I
i
! 1
17
1
; 1
. 3
. 3
. 14
. 10 1 18
. 16 -20
. 34
39
1
1
1
323
3
133
1
94
3
251 •
. 258 1
203
.240 I 1 978
.275
310
I
3,366 1'
1
i
■
!
176
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND' DEATHS OCCURRING
YBARa
THIRD QUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
E^\SES.
49.
168.
ssst.
806.
736.
723.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
3
2
17
1
12
25
42
2
30
27
2
28
4
10
i 7
20
21
Fcbris inlerniitlens tertiana
27
2
4
10
10
4
1
!
1
1
l^rupuve ievcR
Erysipelas
1
Diarrturu
10
3
6
17
40
44
3
1
1
104
88
41
37
2
34
14
Diseases of the organs
connected with the tU-,
gesiivc system.
1 1 1 14
4
22
22
83
5
36
10
48
2
282
4
I
v\Il other diseases of this system
3
3
30
1
16
1
■T!...;;.
9
1
11
1
Disease:} of the respira-
1
5
6
3
1
1
2
2
tory system.
1
1
2
1
10
1
2
6
J)iscrisea of the bniin and
nervous system.
1
1
3
1
1
1
13
■"■■■|..::
■
Gonorrhcra 1
7
10 1
9
15
Disease:; of the nriiiar>-
and genital organs.
6
3
13
5
1
8
8
3
6
Diseases of the serous and ,
exhatent vessels. \
Diseases of the fibrous &. f
1
1
1
9
1
'
1
1
i i _
j.^j^^^^
muscular structures. j
Rheumatismus, acutus et chronicus
2
11
8
29
20
13
Abscesses and ulcers
3
1
4
26
6
4
24
9
1
24
3
2
1
1
21
10
»
19
3
2
13
Luxatio
2
Wounds and injuries
1
1
7
3
Siib-Iutatio.,
2
5
4
4
12
1
4
6
3
4
1
'
2
i
3
1
5
4
1
1
6
1
3
1
a
1
3
1
1
5
4
1
5
Miscellaneous
2
4
7
1
6
1
6
11
12 ! 4 1
Tola]
43 ' I
135
240
2 1 fiia
618
2 311
1
i
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
A^IONG THE TUOOrS AT POSTS IN THE MIDDLE ATLANTIC ItEGION.
177
THIRD aUARTER.
1845.
1S4I!.
1S47
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
AOOREOATE
STRE.NOTH.
560.
736.
4]S.
433.
376.
4(e.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases.; Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Ca.«os Died. Cases Died. 'Cases. Died.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
1
1
1
1 1 1
1 1
5 1
1
3 ' ! 2 ;.
32
u a
2 : 9 18 L
23 ."a 49 '.
9
180 ;
417
14
18 1 18 ! 27 '
10 1 9 1 ' 1
i
30
3 1 i
3 1 1 2 '
5
2
28
963
17
1
132
1
43
5
8 ':
] 90 .
3
36
■ I
1
3 .
1
1
44 36
4
a ....
•2
i""'l
1
1
1
s!
1
1
.1
SJ6
19
24
35
373
50
3
1 1
38
3
1
1
1
SO
14
33
6
i
34 74 .
8 3 .
63 983 15
1 7
1 -"*
6 1 ^u.")
2
1
.. .. ■:::::!
2
2
I
1
2
le I
2
7
::::::
23
12 :
4
7
9
U
1 1
S
5
S3 1
!» 1
1
24
11
10
18
12 j.
29 1.
1 '.
11 .
1
23 351 1
1 16
1
5
8
1
1
1
1
14
13
29
18
19 ' ABR
1
1
5
2
3
2
1
1
1
1 ■
4 .
23
6
1
3
3
10
£><!
2 ,
5
1
1
3
9
......
a
3
1
1
^
4
3
3
1
1
1
5
8
l'
o : ■■;■
1
2 91 2
1
3
• 1
2
14
1
5
1
23
26
2
9
2
6
3
10
2
1
7
S
1
7
1
6
7
17
5
4
4
1
4
2
3
2
3
. ... 5
,
94
11
49
2
1
2
a
3
^
1
5
1
1
9
3
3
13
1
10
6
1
19
1
12
1
5
3
14
163
3
223
103
11
1
8
228
11
9
4
51
54
SO
6
3
41
1
11.
4
1
U
3
10
18
2
18
1
1
15
2
14
17
12
22
: 1.
'
1
1
1
1
2
16
2
1
1 '
11
3
9
I
18
5
12
5
27
18
19
2
1
2
1
6
1
1
I
1
i".V!
4
1
3
S
3
7
5
3
4
2
i 1
1
2
1
'......
2
I
12
1
2
I
1
1
..J
1
1
2
2
1
3
1 4
8 '
1
7
1
4
2
3
6
6
1
1
3
1
I
2
1
1
17
2
4
1
1
3
1
i 1
1
i'T :::::: 1
1
10
54
' 3
1
4
5
1 4
! 1
1
5
1
1
6
1
12
8
4
30
18
26 i t 19
187 1
260
j 1 255 j 1 119
1 . 848 56 : 263 1 | 257 227
1 1 ' 1 1 1 1
1 276 341 1 273
1 1 i . .
5,078 67
S. 9ti-
178
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— AESTKACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND ^EATHS OCCUllRING
Years
FOURTH QUARTER.
CLASSES OF DIS-
1839. i 1840. 1811.
IS
12.
a.
1843. 1844.
£AS££J.
116. 162.
400.
82
(an. 1 7nn
_- , ._,. 1 .... 1
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases.
Died.
1
1
9
2 2
11 12
1
7
1
43
1 19
Fehris inlerniillens tertinna
Fehris intermittens quartans
' 11
16
1
90
9
13
1 4
■■■;■ L. "
1) 2
;:::::■■■;■• :;;;;i
I....: ;':;::...;. :::;:.!
1
i ' i 1
Eru|itivc fevers ■
Erysipelas ,,
1
1 1
!
Scarlatina
1
:::::■':;::::'::::::;;:::: ;:::::'::::::i
Cliolera Asiatica 1 1 1
Diarrhoea
5 i
1
12
13 SR
1 8
27
i IS
Dicicascs of tlie orsariM
connecied will) the di-
Dysenleria acuta
Oysentcria chronica
Enteritis
1
1
11
2
40
3
7
2
1
1
5
14
36
1
2
2
1
2
3
1
1
13
24
1 Obstipatio
2
3
2
21
1 1
' 21
' All other diseases of this system
1 Bronchitis acuta ct chronica
3
16
1
68
1
4
1
8
17
78
1
I
52
1
Di.sc<iFCs of the respira-
tory system.
Pleuritis
1
2
■■■;■■..:
2
1
All otlier diseases of tins system.
«
4
4
Diseases of the hraijiand
2
1
3 1
5
S
in
1
3
8
1
1
1
10
3
5
Gonoi rhcea
'
S
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
Diseases of the serous*
Syphilis priniitiva
s
3
14
8
-
5
9
1
1
1
3
1
1
3
Ascites
and exhalent vessels. )
Diseases of ilie fibrous &
muscular siruetures.
Abscesses and ulcers..., ■;
Pernio
2
1
10
1 Rhcuniatisniusj acutus et chronicus.,..
i Fistula
1
4
19
18
16
3
2
3
'
1
1
......
5
10
2
13
8
24
5
11
4
1
Ulcus
j Concussio cerebri
....
1
21
3
G
36
30
18
1
1
6
5
4
1
Fractura
1
'
Wounds and injuries.... ■
Sub luxatio
2
4
8
2
8
8
13
6
4
1
1
1
6
Vulnus incisum
4
1 Vulnus hK-eratnni
5
I
2
Debilitas
1
1
1
3
5
1
1
9
5
2
1
1
Miscellaneous
3
3
2
14
2
3
Morbi ocnii
:::::. :::::'":':
6
Scorbutus
1
10
10
7
1
j Total
61 ftH
. .. ' .'MK
1 1 387
1
334 ' 3
232
3
1
1
AMONG THE TROOrS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TKOOP? AT POSTS IN THE MIDDLE ATLANTIC REGION.
179
FOURTH aUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
448.
175.
ao3.
659.
468.
4.M.
412.
394.
289.
371.
AGGREGATE
STRENGTH.
6,723.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Coses.
1 ;•
5 .
8 .
1 .
6 .
iJ m,
1
II
Died. Cascs.| Died. ,Cciscs. Died. Cases. Died. Cases.i Died. Cases. Died. ICases. Died,
Cases.] Died. Toul .Total
cases. I died.
1
]8
7
30
26
3
1
5
41
1
3
1
23
I
12
85
333
21
51
3
4
10
10
1
1
« I.
143
19
31
3
2
5
10
1
26
6
11
5
19
1
18
1
17
1
I
8 i
14
6
40
1 I 1
16
.. 12
1
7 1 6
6 , I 5
... 1
10
3
20
25
I
1
I
5
61 1 I 75
10
202
.... 11
2 1 200
IS
27
3
4 I.
218
123
9
3 i
5
80
166
17
484
7
s
18
11
10
a
IS
aa ' 1
11 !
11 ,
13
1
111
3
92
10
33
1
2
o
1
160
2
129
72
11
15
257
7
4
60
62
1
24
11
3
7
44
16
5
la
39
a
179
231 !.
1 136
170 1 3,114
180
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
FIRST aUARTER.
1839. 1840.
1841. 1842. 1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF nis-
E.ASES.
Mean streh otr
40 17-1
0.>T
173. ll.->. 106.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases.! Died. Cases.
! 1 1
Died. Cases.! Died.
Fcbris continua communis
1 1 s 1
1
4
3
1
o
...1
Febris intermittens tertiana . -
!»
." 1
Fcbris intcrniitlens quartana
■1 1
1
1
....
3
5
2
Febris typhus
4
I
I
Erysipelas
Rubeola
1
2
I
Varioloid •.
5
13
3
5
4
1
Discnses of the organs
connecled with the di-
1 Enteritis
1
gestive system.
Hepatitis acuta
■
Obstipatio
1
11
1
10
12
8
7
1
1
9
6
7
7
;
All other diseases of this sj'stem
4
2
7
S
1
2
2
Catarrlius
6
Diseases of the respira-
Phthisis pulmonalis
1
,3
tory system.
4
2
3
1
4
AH other diseases of tliis system
r
2
1
1
2
1 ! 1
Diseases of the hrniti and
1
1
nervous system.
1
1
1
3
. ...
1
I
1
3
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
1
1
1
1
1
I.
Diseases of tlie serous {
and cxhalent vessels. (
1
Diseases of the fihrous &.
2
muscular strueUires.
f
Abscesses and nicers.... -J
Rhcumutismus, acutus ot chronieus
Fistula
1
B
1
5
7
2
4
2
4
Chlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
1
2
7
2
3
1
2
I
34
2
1
2
U
1
9
4
2
1
::::: i
Wounds and injuries..,, ■
3
9
3
1
......
3
4
2
11
4
1
1
■•••■• ■■■"t::::: ;::::: :;:;::
1
5
3 ' 1 1 o
3
11 1 4
i 9 , 1 1
Total
I
21
134 1 129 5 80
1
1 1 48 21
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE MIDDLE INTERIOR.— EAST.
181
FIRST QUARTKR.
AOOREOATE
STKEnOTH.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848. 1849.
1850. 1851.
1
1852.
1853. : 1854.
148.
100.
53.
161. 208. 238. 282.
154.
207.
27.
2,408.
Cases.
Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. ICases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died. Cases.
Died. Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases. Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
3
i.._ 1 i
1
10
1
1
8
6
35
6
18
9
■
7
9
9
5
I
....
2
1
Q
3
1
2
:::::. "T'":::
1
o
7
1
4
3
5
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
4
■
1 '
8 j
U
4
8
2
16
19
7
90
1 '
9
j
1
29
6
10
2
1
2
2
6
10
" 1
7
17
2
7
57
12
1
i 13
6
...
1
166
30
182
2
5
3
13
[ 29
26
15
12
21
3
1
5
1
1
3
4
2J '
1
1
1
I
2
13 3
1
1
2
3
1
1
3
4
1
3
•
15
8
1
9
2
1
1
3
11
i
1
5
_ _ _ _
•3
20
5
9
3
1
'
3 .1
1
5
:i
.... \ . ,
3
1
1
1
....
1 1
2
2
, '
......
1
1
1
1
1
J
2 1
1
3 !
2
1
4 :
1 1
1
3
8
7
4
8
3
7
2
66
1
71
33
1
1
4
1
1
15
4
6
3
19
1
9
a
6
1 '
1
1
1
12
: 4
1
7
27
35
1 .
20
2
10
5
1
3
171
1
'
7
1
6
1 ■•>
18
3
1 1
i 1
SI
60
3
12
1
11
1
3
S3
1
1
2
7
8
1
15
; 5 j
9
1
1 I
1 ,
1
1
1
o
1
1
1 1
1
1
1
3
2
4
S
1
2
2
.1 ' _i P 1.1
U
.......... .
3
87 J
99
11
83 1 33 27
no a 150 1 155
75 bS
!l
1,359
182
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Yr A RS
SECOND aUAUTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASE.s.
40.
187. , 197.
^1.
113.
10.5.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Coses.
Died.
Onses.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.' Died.
1
^ascs.
Died.
r
a
5
5
9
7
2
1
Fevers
4
13
... .
8
2
2
8
4
1
4
3
Eniplive fevers
1
I
f
1
6
10
24
2
13
21
1
4
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
gestive system.
3
10
6
4
1
10
5
4
1
2
2
4
,
All other diseases of this system 3 !
5
1
9
1
4
1
4
Diseases of the rospira-
torj' system.
1
1
1
4
a
6
1
5
' All other diseases of this systiini
2
3
Diseases of the brain and
■
nervous system.
1
'
1
1^
;
f
1
4
3
1
1
1
2
Diseases of the urinary
1
and genital organs.
1
2
1
Diseases of the serous and /
exhalent vessels. (
All other diseases of this class
1
Diseases of the fibrous St.
niu^^cular slructures.
llheumatisniiis, aculus ct chronicus
Fistula
2
10
1
1
8
8
3
4
Abscesses and ulcers.... .
3
1
>
6
2
i
Ulcus
1
1
23
1
4
20
6
4
Fractura
1
Luxaiio
1
Wounds and injuries
1
R
3
4
2
4
5
3
Vulnus laccralutn
1
i
!
Vulnus sclopeticum
»
f
3
1
Cbrictas
Hicniorrhois , .'
2
1
1
1
•!
1
Morbi cutis
1
1
2
18
1 1
11 5
6
7
Total
23
169
!,.,
2
89 1
32
46
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE MIDDLE INTEEIOK.— EAST.
183
SECOND QUARTER.
1815.
1846.
18-17.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STUENGTU.
144.
39.
62.
199.
132.
199.
1
249. i 191. 182.
29.
3,309.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
1
Died. iCases.
Died. Cases. Died.
; 1
Cases ; Died.
Toial
cases.
Total
died.
1
7
2
1
II
2
8
1
20
Ci-i
3
43
16
3
7
6
3
12
1 11
'
3
1
3
2
9
1
1
1
2
1
[ 1
1
3
'
1
1
1
i 1
... .|^ .
.
1
!
1
1
1
7
4
6
45
5
22
13
2
25
1
25
10
1 1
213
32
2
1
1
10
1
87
93
3
133
3
9
34
5
40
3
4
7
1
30
4
3
3
8
3
6
2
1
13
14
■
13
9
7
4
14 : 8
1
4
11 1
6
4
1
4
6
2
1
9
16
25
13
12
17
2
3
9
1
1
2
2
1
1
t
1
1
2
•
1
1
15
3
3
4
1
3
1
1
3
1
1
1
1
5
1
1 !
1
1
1
3
2
6
R
1
1
1
1 1
1
1
1
; 1:::::
2
1
<
1
1
1
58
3
65
24
1
1
•
1
3
5
1
5
1
7
1
1
4
3
3
1
18
1
1
3
1
7
5 1
13 -
11
1
4
2
1
1
3
181
2
1
19
35
75
8
12
1
2
16
19
1
4
33
22
11
4
1
1
1
3
1
3
I
8
3
4
42
3
i
4
1
2
10 1 s
8
1 1
1
1
4
6
10
' ' i '
2 1
2
1
2
4
3
16
5 i
' 1
'^ 1
83
1
.•••..
1
1
1
1
6
1
1
3
1 1 1
4
8
5
6 1
3
3
85
22
30
221
1
125
1
98
160 '
134
1 ' 100
1
13 ;
1,468 ] 6
184
RKPORT OX THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG THE
THIRD aUAllTER.
CLASSES OF DIS-
1
1839. 1840. 1841. 1842. 184.S. 1844.
EASES.
175. 258. 186. 239. 109. 104.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
1 1
Cases. Died. Coses. Died. Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died, leases. Died. Cases Died.
r
1
4
; 3
S
1
1
1
1
1
20 1 6
17
:::::t«"'
3 8
1
1
.
1
1 , 1
1
1
Erirptive fevers ■
1
f
; '
; i ; 1
DiarrhiTa
2.5 25 9 ,
20 .')& 14 1
4G
s
3 1
i i
Diseases of the organs
counseled witli the di-'
1
1
gesiivc sysleiii.
1 12
2
7
1
6
4
1
.... O 1 1 Q \ 1
All other diseases of this system
9
3
4
4
Catarrhus
7
7
8
27
5
1
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
1 1
.1
3
1
1
1
1
■ ;
1
1 1
1
r
5
............ ..................|
2
a
1 i 1
Diseases ol tin- brain and |
ner\'oiis system.
1
2
1
1
4
1 .
4
a
Diseases of tlie urinary
4
1
'
1
1
2
and genital orgaiii*.
3
1
Diseases of the serous r
Ascites
1
i_.
1
1
Diseases of the fibrous St
muscular structures.
Rheunmtismus, aculus et chronicus
4
1
8
1
2
1
1
5
6
1 ' 7
Ulcus . .
1
3
3 1
3
1
6
3
13
1
7
3
2
1
1
Wounds and injuries.... ■(
4
2
S
5
' 1
9
1
1
1
1
3
1 11
Dehilitas '
1
3
1
2
1
1
j 3
' 1
3
S
1
2
1
2
1
1
3
1 , 1
10
1
' IB
1
5 i 1
5
i . _.
i Total
124
203 1 1 101 2
123
55
.52
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE MIDDLE INTERIOR— EAST.
185
THIRU aUARTER.
1845. 1 1846. 1847. ] 1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRESGTH.
147. , 35. 70. 268.
211.
232.
342.
95.
151.
150.
2,773.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died, leases. Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total Total
cases. 1 died.
1 1
1
3
10
7
3
1
.1
5
13
3
29
52
13
8
3
1
. i
.. „. ..,...j
2
3
4
6
I
1
2
99
3
I
I
1
1 '
:::::: ::"":i
1
2
J
!
3
1
1 1
■_____.
1
1
;:.
1 i
11
34
3
11
476
135
2
4
3
6
1
1
4
1
_ i
6
1
1
19
23
1
161
4
15
2
1
33
1
72
1
1
3
: 1
1
,
2
5
6
38
9
33
9
30
20
19
7
8
4
5
9
20
2
88
183
1
98
1
9
14
2
2
2
2
1
1
1
11
7
3
7
1
1
5
1
1
.:"::::::::
4
' 1
1
6
1
I
1
1
1
4
1
6
11
2
4
1 1
... 1
4
36
13
6
9
3
51
3
32
1
10
2
1
1
1
1
I
2
1
1
S
1
1
8
3
5
5
8
10
S
1
2
1
4
3
8
3
1
. 1
2
1
2
1
1
.
1
1
2
2
i
1
1
8
4
1
5
3
2
6
45
1
107
46
1
201
7
3
42
33
47
3
14
7
7
16
3
26
1
128
15
5
2
8
7
38
SO
9
11
2
6
1
2
7
2
42
2
2
19
7
53
2
13
1
18
6
1
1
8
9
3
3
16
3
6
2
9
4
2
4
1
3
12
3
S
3
1
1
1
3
2
9
1
3
1
3
1
1
5
3
1
2
5
1
11
1
: 1 1
1
8
20
14
10
23
2
51
13
1 30
1
1
240
1
190
3
149
430
2
86
86
185
3
2,118
14
S. 96-
-24
186
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
YCARS
FOURTH QUARTER.
CLASSES OF DIS-
1839.
1840. ' 1841.
1842.
1S4.-S. , 1844.
EASES.
109.
1S9.
138.
172.
105.
136.
SPECIFIC DISEASES. Cases. Died.
Cases.
1
"Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
14
!
1
2
1
•A
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana
5
1
1
2
5
::::::.:..
5
9
4
6
2
1
•
8
1
Eruptive fevers
::::::
:::::: ::;:::i
r
2
8
:::::: "v
19
4
8
2
1
4
Diseases of tlic organs
connected with thedi-'
gestive system.
3
5
8
7
5
a
3
1
4
4
3
6
::::::
1
2
All other diseases of this system
6
2
3
4
5
1
Diseases of the respira-.
1
1
1
i
2
1
2
toiy system.
3
2
1
3
I
1
1
1
1
nervous system.
2
1
2
1
3
3
2
1
3
3
Strictura uretlira? ,
Diseases of the urinary
1
4
6
1
2
and genital organs.
Diseases of the serous r
Diseases of the fibrous &
muscular structures. '
L
Rheumaiismus, acutus et clironicus
6
3
4
4
1
1
2
""
6
2
a
2
2
"V i 1
Ulcu^ ....
}
2
1
2
3
6
1
3
1
6
1
i
i
Wounds and injuries,,.. ■
1
1
4
4
I
5
3
5
1
2
1
2
1
1
10
'
1
.... 1
3
2
Miscellaneous -
1
1
3
10
3
8
2
4
... .
3
I
1
1
1
Total
94
97
67
69
24
55
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSl'S IN THE MIDDLE INTERIOR.— EAST.
187
FOURTH QUARTER.
1845. i .1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENOTH.
99. 43.
163.
221.
166.
245.
324.
138.
31.
195.
3,334.
Cases.l Died. Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
r
Cases. Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
3
1
2
1
10
7
1
....
34
29
62
1
37
....
18
13
15
1
1
7
5
1
1
i 2
13
2
1
3
;
1
17
;
1
1
1
1
1
1
.. ..
2
27
1
20
1
19
9
20
1
33
2
4
1
13
3
179
34
1
1
16
6
2
29
....
3
11
1
8
7
8
13
13
3
9
3
1
12
68
83
14
167
4
I
3
1
1
3
3
1
47
18
8
15
12
1
1
2
1
1
1
4
2
17
7
;
2
3
7
1
1
3
1
1
1
1
3
1
3
4
1
!
23
10
14
11
'
1
' "'{
1
1
7
1
1
1
2
3
7
13
2
9
6
5
1
1
47
3
37
2
9
3
1
5
3
3
3
2
i
1
3
1
3
1
1
1
!
3
2
... I.... ■
3
3
6
3
7
1
9
4
3
4
52 1
3
2
1
34
1
9
1
11
2
6
1
9
1
1
86
18
3
1
115
6
2
38
39
4
13
4
4
10
3
3
18
91
'
1
1
8
3
2
7
1
1
4
4
4
25
1
13
1
14
S
1
3
16
_
5
I
1
2
4
3
1
1
4
3
1
1
8
3
6
11
3
'
1
1
1
2
2
1
1
3
1
1
1
1
.__.._!______
1
1
1
e
2
■■-■rv\
1
9
1
2
13
8
10
4
1
1
i '
25
15
146
•1
207
1
lao
136
1
165
56
1
8
136
1,430
8
188
REPORT ON TUE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 3.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Fears ^.....
FIRST QUARTER.
CLASSES OF DISi
1848.
1849.
1850. 1851.
1852.
1853.
Mean strenotq
290.
199. 230. j 157.
252.
162.
- SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Caseti
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died. Cases
1
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
r
1
18
Jl
5
B
1 33
10
39
Kehris intermittens tertiana
2
7
10
10
5
2
1
1
3
6
3
2
9
Febris typhus icterodes
1
12
Eriipiivc lovers
2
1
3
4
1
2
2
2
1
1
f
3
3
1
2
7
2
17
13
13
11
1
1 ' 3
1
Diseases ol' the organs
;
connected with thedi--^
Enteritis
1
gcstive systuin.
3
3
1
7
7
, 12
1 6
3
1
2
14
34
1
3
5
12
1
All other diseases of this system
9
L'atarrhus
20
13
9
6
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
9
23
1
2
3
1
1
4
19
o
19
1
1
2
1
5
1
AI! other diseases of this system
Cephalalgia
1
1
1
2
1
1
Diseases ol t)if Ur.iui and
1
1
3
nervous .sy^-teiu.
1
1
All other diseases of this system
2
7
1
o
1
2
4
Diseases of iht- urinary
and genital organs.
Slrictura urethne
1
3
3
4
9
o
•
Diseases of the serous ,
aiid exhalent vessels. (
Diseases of the fibrous &.
muscular structures.
3
1
2
4
1
4
1
1
5
5
-
Fi-^tula .
Abscesses and ulcers
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
o
1
3
3
9
2
1
7
4
Luxatio
1
1
3
Wounds and injuries..,.
1
7
3
1
2
1
1
3
1
2
1
1
2
1
2
1
1
2
Miscellaneous
3
2
5
5
1
5
2
6
4
11
3
3
1
.1
Total
194
6
114
6
153 1 1
68
2
J 68
1 108
1
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT NEWPORT BM5RACKS, KENTUCKY.
189
FIRST aU.\R 1 ER.
SECOND aUARTER.
1854.
AGGREGATE
STRENGTH.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852. 1853.
1854.
AGGREGATE
STRENGTH.
132.
1,422.
187.
354.
131.
184.
104.
128.
144.
163.
1,395.
Cases
Died.
Tulal
cases.
Total
died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
.Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.j Died.
Cases. Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Total Tol.ll
caiies. died.
1
1J4
51
1
4
7
9
2
61
9
14
21
18
6
29
13
4
151
35
13
30
1
12
9
1
5
3
1
10
3
2
4
2
34
18
1
2
3 1 1
4
16
13
5
8
1
2
1
1
8
22
2
21
4
4
■
10
5
4
1
-
1
3
::::::i;:::::
3
66
11
1
4
2
15
7
1
2
1
8
14
19
7
95 1 4
3
67
9
1
2
2
1
7
23
7
1
16
49
1
141
16
1
3
2
2
1
1
1
1
10
23
1
3
30
47
19
96
1
17
68
00
1
......
1
12
4
2
1
1
4
2
4 j
4
1
1
5
8
1
^
5
.11
1
7
1
1 .'iO ( a
1
1
2
I
11 1
2
1
^
8
21
1
4
1
2
6
19
1
2
3
12
23
3
2
5
1
1
1
3
1
2
1
2
3
5
4
3
4
16
2
8
15
1
6
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
9 1
2
4
1
o
... ...
1
1
!
1
2
2
2
1 .___.
1
1 ___.
10
1
2
1
4
1
1
1 4
1
1
3
3
1 ;
■■■;■■:.:;::
8
i
I
1 ■ 1
4
1
4
22
3
24
7
1
14
1
9
2
5
2
1
2
1
3
25
1
2
3
6
1
7
3
3
a
5
12
1
1
4
15
8
1
46
23
1
1
1
,
:::::....:.!;:::::
1
2 1
(
'
1
2
7
1
15
1
■ •
1
1
6
13
5
1
3
2
7
2
::::::::"■■
1
7
1
1
^
2
13
7
S
1
1
2
2
1
2
1
1
1
3 '
1
3
2
16
2
3
23
28
19
1
6
3
1
1
2
1
3
::::::::::::
::::■•::::::;:;;:; ::;.;i
18
20
24
1
17
4
4
2
1
1
1
5
1 . . 1 1 , 1
1
7
3
4 ; 4
3 1 _ 2
5
9
41 3
84R
19
73
4
261 10
129
6
93 1 3
86 1
91 2 i 100
134
957
2S
190
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 3.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
TIIIKD QUARTER.
CLASSES OF DIS-
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
EASES.
Mean strength
338.
105.
lao.
150.
349.
185.
120.
SPEL'IFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
1
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
L'ases.!
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
1
Febris int. quotidi<ina
Febris interiniitens tertiana.
Febris intermittens quartana
83
13
1 25
10
16
19
2
13
Fevers
4
7
13
10
4
12
1
1
4
34
1
1
Eruptive fevers ■
19
10
4
1
12
21
13
2
73
62
13
7
25
3
^ 1
27
8
2
24
6
1
38
Diseases of the organs
::::::...:..
connected with the di-
1
3
1
1
6
9
gestive system.
1
17
4
3
:::;:: 2
9
3
1
3
4
6
3
8
31
AH other diseases
Bronchitis acuta et chronica
2
6
2
1
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
1
1
8
2
1
1
1
1
All other diseases
1
2
2
3
1
1
a
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
Diseases of the hrain and
1
neivous system.
1
1
1
1
1
10
2
2
1
2
1
2
Diseases uf the urinary
1
1
and genital organs.
Syphilis consccutiva
1
9
5
Diseases of tlie serous t
and exbalcnt vessels. (
1
Diseases of the fibrous &
muscular structures.
4
2
2
2
1
4
Abscesses ami ulcers.... -
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
3
6
1 3
3
4
4
1
4
B
12
1
1
6
4
1
1
1
1
Wounds and injuries.... •
4
2
2
1
1
2
8
3
1
4
2
1
1
2
1
3
2
1
2
1
3
2
2
3
1
Miscellaneous s
3
1
2
3
1
6
2
9
7
8
All other diseases
7
2
,
241
1 1 lOS
5
94
3
91
2
247
7
134
100
I
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT NEWPORT BARRACKS, KENTUCKY.
191
THIRD QUARTER.
FOURTH QUARTER.
1854.
AGGREaATE
STRENGTn.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
AGGREGATE
8TKB.SOT11.
169.
1,455.
304.
153.
200.
151.
205.
314.
96.
223.
1,546.
Cases.
Died.
Total 'Tolal
cast's, died.
Cases.
Died.
Casea.
i '
Died. Cases.' Died.
1
1
Cascs.l Died.
1
Cases.l Died.
Cases.
Died.
! 1
Cases. Died. Cases. Died.
Total I Total
cases.' died.
..
23
4
180
30
11
23
17
4
67
10
15
"ai" ::::::
34
33
6
187
6
3
12
23
1
7
37
1
17
147
21
. .1
3
1
8
Z
8
I
1
2
7
3
3
1
4
5
1
1
35
1
34
1
1
3
1
4
1
12
42
1
1
.
15
60
4
2
119
267
49
1
6
10
5
5
16
2
2
1
1
2
as
1
10
3
1
15
6
19
4
2 ,
21
4
I
1
1
1
3
1
26
31
10
74
1
18
1
13
11
1
2
48
80
6
14
1
13
1
4
2
8
7
5
5
14
2
5
8
4
1
5
1
3
4
3
4
4
1
2
9
1
3
1
1
1
6
3
1
7
10
1
12
8
2
5
27
4
12
1
4
6
1
5
1
5
14
29
3
5
6
5
3
3
22
1
S
2.
2
1
3
3
2
5
2
;
1
1
1
1
3
3
1
1
2
1
3
2
1
1
1
1
13
1
1
3
2
3
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
2
1 ■
1
S
6
17
1
25
' ]
1
1
5
16
1
1
45
25
2
6
7
2 1 1 1 i ' 4
....
8
3
5
1
5
1 ""
1
1
1
1
12
2
2
13
3
2
12
8
1
2
1
2
,,
1
1
3
1
2
3
1
2
5 '
10 '
15
5
1
1
1
Ill
1
2
2
6
19
2
5
11
11
5
3
1
i
2 ;
2
1
1
5
14
1
7
9
17
2
42
4
6
1
3
1
1
2
1
3
1
6
1 1
2 !
■
1
1
1
3
2
1
19
1 !
1
I
5
a
1
4
; 2
1
2
3 1
1
2
1
1
I
a 1
■■■;t:::::
13
20
195
3
1,208
20
232
3
77
1
89
1
76 \
I
132
6
117
26 1
1
141
890
11
192
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 4.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRlNCffAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCHEIlINa
Ykarb
FIRST QUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF niS-
73.
80.
68.
340.
603.
835.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases Died.
i
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
2
2
15
2
10
21
63
72
104
Febris intermittens^ tertiana
3
6
11
1
2
1
1
5
1
Febris typhus ....
Eruptive fevers
2
14
3
3
12
2
2
14
54
48
32
4
4
1
13
11
3
Diseases of the orpuns
gcsiive system.
1
2
1
1
11
6
8
16
3
72
1
10
25
1
1
1
1
1
15
1
42
8
3
3
1
All other diseases of this system
10
4
5
94
1
4
I
3
Diseases of the respira-.
neuritis
2
3
1
tory system.
t
1
1
1
4
6
1
1
1
8
2
Epilepsia
1
1
1
nervous system.
1
1
13
4
1
. ..
1
Diseases of the urinary
8
3
3
.... .
1
Diseases of the serous and J
exhaleiit vessels. '
1
1
1
Pernio
3
Diseases of tlic fibrous Sc
1
36
1
4
6
2
muscular structures.
Rheumatismus, acutus et chronicus
4
3
5
12
39
1
2
25
1
Abscesses and ulcers.... *
3
1
2
Ulcus
5
1
Ampulatio
1
4
3
1
17
2
20
3
6
7
Fractura
Wounds and injuriiN.... ]
6
6
1
5
2
1
Vulnus punrium
i
1
3
5
Ebrietas
5
i
10
Hiemorrhois
1
2
2
1
Morbi cutis.
Morbi ocuH
Scorbutus
2
2
12
5
15
«
8
10
5
38
11
1
8
Total
46
63
44
429
1
490
7
364
5
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT JEFFERSON BARUACKS AND ST. LOUIS ARSENAL.
193
FIRST QUARTER.
1S4.5. 1846. ■ 1847. ' 1848.
1849. 1850.
1851.
1852.
1853. 1854.
HTRE.SGTH.
171. 386.
1
143.
238.
1,015. ; 176.
481. 341. 260. 315.
5,525.
Cases.' Died. 'Cases. Died. 'Cases.
Died.
Caaes.i Died.
Cases. Died Cases. Died.
Cases. Died. Cases.: Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. J^ J^^
5 5
2 2
7 7
2
318
435
6
33 1
10 1
9
25
18
16
1
6
::::::■•;;•■:::.:: 4
35 19
"
16
61
54
12
3
3
24
8
11
•20
31
20
; 42
! 12
8
30
1
1
1
1
I
1
1
7
2
3
1 1
1
10
'
11 1
81 39
254 4
10
2 1
1 12
1
81
471
136
58
1
1
• 39
8
G
.!.... u 10
13 3
1
30
3
2
1
16
2
1
1
■a
15
10
3
31 1
7
7
1
1
1
19
14
5
1
5
4
5
8
69
5
3
9
2
7
3
S
6
2
80
164
19
690
7
S3
42
6
33
29
7
3
8
SS
1
43
10
18
1
a
23
4
2
1
: 56
21
68
176
3 1
12 1
2 i 2
15
42
36
16
39
1
5
1
3
1
3
3
1
3
3
1
4
2
8
^
1 ! 1
1
3
7
13
2
1
4
19
1
4
a
1 !
1
1
!
a
2
5
■
1
1
5
2
2
1
4
3
1
6
'
1
■2;" :::::
1
5
2
2
1
1
4 1
5
2
2
3
1
1
1
a
a
... .
4
9
1
139
3
103
60
17
1
207
9
7
31
1
2
1
1
1
^
1 I
5
3
1 "
g
26
a
4
3
5
!
a
1
9 ;
1
5
5
43
1
6
a
1
8
13
^ i
6
3 1
2
1
1
1
''
6
1 14
61
a
4
7 23 10
14
1
1
4
1
4 6 ' 1
S
18
4
a
a
19
8
2
3
2
1
2
1 o I
i
7 1
3 48
3 1
1
10
3
S
i
1
,
!..._
1 1 1 1
2
2 4
3 1
4
1
1 3 ■ ! 2 '•
3 46
3
7
4
'
48
14
1
1
1 3
X
1 i
1 a
1
2
1
9
16
58
2
192
1
1 1
1 :
1
1
3
4
5 1 3
' 1 '
2
7
1
58
1 1
3
5
i
4
'■ a
5
7
8
1 5 IS
2
UJ
203 2 i 99 1
330
I
10
!l022
1
54
77
179
4
214
1 ; 150
a { 186 1 3 ! 3,908
90
S. 96-
-25
194
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 4.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
SECOND QUAUTER.
1830. ISJO. 1811. 1842. 1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
61.
46. 69.
83. 1,045.
183.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases. Died. Cases.
1
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
1
Died. Csises..Died.
! 1
Cases.
Died.
j I
1
1 1
'
1
5
29
4
1
1 Fcbris intermittens qnotidiana
8
i
30
on
Tld
4 '
15
1 JR
Fevers
Z
1 1
2
! OQ
1
i
1
. ■
1
1
j
«
Eruptive tevers ■
1
1 ' * 'l
I
1 1 i -
'
a
17
19 2 114 ' 1
26
K)
1
49 99 :
1 .... Rl 1
3
1
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di--
1
gestive system.
1 1
1 1
3
9
25
23
19
L
Ail otlinr diseases of this system
6
1
1
4
1
2
' Catarrhus
: 10 1 t 42
; i:io
1
23
1
4
1
2
3
1
1
1
10
1
1
1
1
1
17
Diseases of the respira-
tory systeni.
2
4
i
1
1
11 !
1
4
4
4
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
2
3
1
1
25
3
5
1
r
Diseases of the urinary
I
!
1
and genital organs.
1
1
1
3
Diseases of the serous and i
exhalent vessels. <
1
Diseases of the fibrous St
' Podanra ■
!
muscular structures.
nheuniatismtis, acutus et chronicus
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
1
3
2
1
4
9
:::.:: ■■;;'i:;:;::
6
1
1
1
4
1
^9 .:::::
Abscesses and ulcers, . . . S
1
1
29
5
6
1
1
6 1 28
i
1
3
14
15
Wounds aud injuries ....
2
1
5
2
9
2
3
1
1
j
1 '
I
1
6
38
27
3
1
2
4
1
1
,
1
1
1
1
Miscellaneous '
2
4
39
1
21
14
1 2
ToUl
65
231
3
1163
11
146
3
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TKOOPS AT JEFFERSON BARRACKS AND ST. LOUIS ARSENAL.
195
SECOND QUARTER.
1
1845.
1846. 1847. ' 1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENOTn.
170.
213. ! 137, 362.
415.
283.
219. 408.
281,
238. 4,ae.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died. Cases
1
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases. Died.
1
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases Died.
Total 'Total
cases, died.
( 1
1
1
1
1
7
527
423
9
39
13
3
5
22
1
6
14
7
4
2
21
36
9
37
1
2
148
34
4
1
11
46
20
2
39
35
27
24
7
18
2
■■■■|
1
3
2
..
1
1
3
12
2
1
2 ' ' 8
1
... , , ....
1
1
1
1
1 1 ' '
j
2
2
20
109
5
2
[
2
2
80
"999
241
89
4
2
164
111
11
410
4
41
17
5
41
23
3
6
9
56
4
32
2
14
4
1
2
9
8
30
1
3
2
23 : 16
26
30
12
77
9
7
17 ] 15
161 ,
3 ;
49
7
15
4
5
5
41
4
343
6
4
2
21
2
7
2
1
1
2
1
1
3
3
1
6
8
1
9
....
1
14
7
40
15
5
88
17
14
4
25
1
5
3
10
1
6
2
1
4
11
9
1
2
10
11
18
1
6
1
8
8
26
2
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
2
1
1 1 1
2
2
3
5
1
1
2
2
2
1
7
[
1
1
2
1
4
13
3
5
3
1
1
1
3
4
5
i
,
i.
2
1
2
i
1
1
3
1
11
1
1
1
1
1
4
1
.... ---
2
5
7
2
1
3
2
3
1
3
2
1
1
1
1
4
'
4
1
I
1
1
4
2
4
1
4
1
1
2
1
3
4
32
5
14
29
16
3
2
1
3
2
13
5
3
4
7 '
12
3
7
2
12
158
87
67
7
192
6
4 ■
42
57
7
5
8
140
70
33
7
IS
81
1
132
"
7
6
18
33
4
3
......
33
8
20
1
1
i
1
1
2
1
2
' 3
1
3
2
1
! 1
7
.,
5
2
4
4
3
3
1
4
2
9
12
2
1
3
1
1
3
I
5
3
2
109
3
1
3
■■■;■.:::::
3
1
4
1
1
1
1
1
3
9
....
1
:::::: ;;:::a.;;;:i
3
1
:::::: "o:"
2
2
1
a 1
1
2
2
! 1'
11
2
1
a
2
2 ...
2
9
14
31
3
9
22
5
5
112 1
110
2 : 177
3 916
9 430
15
173
3
168
18
295
7
125
3
3^
17
4,545
94
196
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 4.— ABSTKACT UF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRINU
THIRD aUAKTEH.
1839.
; 1
1840. 1841. 1842. i 1843.
1
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
5».
677.
127.
164.
987. S6.
SPECIFIC DISEASES. Cases. Died. Cases.
,1.1,.,
Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died.
. 1
10
2
17
52
i
1
Fcbris intermittens quolidiaua 1-1
11
1
39
14
117
95
.'>
47
Fevers
4
43
1 16
2
4
7
2 22 1
I
2
:;:;::':.::::i
1
1
17
181
201
2
45
14
4
3
27
2
1
258
39
12
1
3
3
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
2
gestive Mysiem.
2
14
11
:::::]
ij
11
9
4
21
25
1
4
Al! other diseases of this system
5
1
56
17
2
1
284
1
5
1
1
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
1
1
4
1
3
2
1
1
All other diseases of this system
1
1
1
'
38
1
2
.. .1
Diseases of the brain and
3
nervous system.
1
3
20
3
3
3
::::::
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
1
3
1
5
1
All other diseases of this class
2
Diseases of the serous (
'
1
1
I
Diseases of the fibrous & J
\
muscular structures. 1
' RhiMiMiatismus, acntus ct chronicus
Fi";tul:i . ...
1
9
2
6
I
5
3
1
6
32
1
IMilepmon et alt?c('?sus
Ulcus
2
21
4
2
11
1
18
2
2
32
1
1
1
11
9
10
10
2
1
1
10
1
1 1
i 1
Wounds and injuries....
t
5
6
12
4
1
6
5
6
1
I
3
Dfbililas
1 i
ID
3
4
50
11
I
Ebricias
1 I
1
2
2 '
2
, 1
1 4
1
6
MisctUancous
I
23
, 17 1
1 1
23
1
32
1
34
4
17
1
Total
69 1 • "J^ii
3 1 QPR 1 R
j 154
1
1 ii.iflQ . 4 inft
1
1
1
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONU TOE TROOPS AT JEFFERSON BARRACKS AND ST. LOUIS ARSENAL.
197
TlirRD QUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847. 1848.
1849.
1850. 1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRRNOTH.
191.
354.
214.
1,837.
353.
310.
288.
194.
182.
253.
6,245.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.! Died.
Cases.
Died.
1 1
Cases., Died. Cases.
1 1
Died. 'Cases. Died.
' 1
Cases. Died. Cases. Died.
Total Toul
cases, died.
6
6
6 G
1
12
30
62
90
74
47
111
14
33
2
14
8
46
10
46
119
100
54
63
35
1
21
1
18
662 3
810 !
2 '
10
1
2
1
3
15
9
1
1
14
2
2
5
3 9 1
174 10
I
13 4
1
1
3
12
5 >
13 5
1
6
139
7
4
1
5
1
1
1
180
24
13
12
21
3
1
2
33
U
1
3
40
4
4
1
19
2
1
4
57
2
3
196 34
8
6
71
41
112
16
222
20
28
5
1,262 37
384 9
32 1
1
1
4
........................
o
10
5
23
7
1
20
,2
26
22
10
2
43
14
15
19
11
17
3
9
7
11
1
6
i 3 1
.... i (
196
148 !
4
15
11
1
8
1
9
1
1
19
1
4
2
1
4
3
485
9
1
5
2
10
17 1
1
3
1
1
1
6
71
6
1
2
1
7
2 -- -
7
3
1
1
1
4
5
4
1
1
I
1...
15 1
5
1
...
3 I
1
4
.1
8 I 4
3
4
1
3
2
'
2
1
49
1
1
*
1
1
1
Q
3
2
1
29
1
1
6
1
1
6
2
!
1
1
1 !
M
( 1
2 1
1
o
1
2
3
1
15
7
16
3
2
3
2
10-t
o
S
15
2
1
23
14
5
9
5
20
5
1
6
'
22
4
1
15
5
3
14 !..::::
4
156
2
1
1 '
19
12
6
7
8
6
3
26
1
183 j
I
o
,
1
6
10
4
2
9
1
2
2
2
4
10
2
8
10
5
2
' '
53
2
1
3
,
49
2 . ^
16
1
o
3
3
'
4
j
5 i
5
7
9
12
1
6
21
8
1
2
"
75
4
1
1
93 1
1
2
1
3
1
1
S3
1
3
1
1
1
\ 1 3
1
3
20
i
1
4
9_
I
9
1 11
1 1 9
L___..l .q
I
3
1
9>i 1
2
3
i
3 1 1
2
8
1
12 1 ' 10
1
5
4 ' 7 ' 5
136 ' 1
179
2 416
j 428
5 476 .53 378 i 10 I 599
28 i 270
1 1 203 1 5 126 I 4 171
'
5,761 129
198
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 4.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
FOURTH aUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASED.
67.
68.
149. 648.
9(
7.
45.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
1
1
3
IRQ
1
34
49
1
11
12
4
10
51
Febris intermittens terliana
8
17
196
5
4
6
1 .'>7
5
1
2
2
1
c
3
Eruptive fevers J
!
f
9
3
2
36
17
2
.1 114
8
4
3
21
1
1
3
5
Diseases of ilie ortj^ns
connected with the di-'
gestive svs-teni.
1
3
2
7
1
3
38
.All other diseases of this system
1 3
13
1
1
1
12
50
64
78
3
Diseases of the respira-
Phthisis puhnonalis
tory system.
I
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
a
1
3
94
4
g
10
2
g
1
1
7
2
6
2
4
2
1
1
33
2
10
1 Cephalalgia
1
2
1
1
2
3
1
!E,M:,.„sia
1
3
1
7
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
2
1
1
Diseases of the serous i
and exhalcnt vessels. )
Diseases of the fibrous &
muscular structures.
Abscesses and ulcers. . . . -{
[
.... 1
1
Uhcumatismus, acutus et chronicus....
2
1
5
25
29
1
14
2
3
9
1
! Phlegmon et absccssus
j Uicu-^
1
1
2
30
6
1
2
31
1
10
8
1
5
1
Wounds and injuries ■
i ,
2
a
7
7
3
3
7
2
*l
1
I ■
1.....
I
1
8
f
...s..
i:
4
6
1
8
5
1
6
3
1
::::::::::::!
Miscellaneous ^
{{(■niia
1
1
11
2
8
8
1
7
a : 9.T
Total
57
53
2 ; 242
1
2 884
17
417
7
32
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT JEFFERSON BARRACKS AND ST. LOUIS AKSENAI-.
199
1 FOURTH aUARTER.
1845. 1846. 1847.
1848. i 1849. 1850.
1851. 1852. 1 1853. 1854.
STRENGTH.
378.
1 1 i
477. 1 307. 1 900. 133. 364.
1 ;
761.
189.
241. 1 646.
6,320.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases. Died. Cases.
Died. Cases. Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases. Died. Cases.; Died. Cases.
Died. Cases
Died.
Toi.ll Toml
cases, died.
7
5
1
1
51
6
1
8 i 6
t
6 1
72
m
52
130
I
28 j
133
23
15
10
22
71
44
48
19
12
16
33
76
625
868 (
1
1
1
1
2
2
4
2
96 7
1
1
15
19
2
5
4
1
11
1,042
183
IS
1
1
i
i
'
1
4
1
1
1
3
27
16
2
2
1
90
14
1
7
186
S
8
47
39
152
39
1
138
24 , 5
160
2
8
4
1
13
1
1
24
2
19
11
1
1
1
1
• 2
11
9
1
'2
i ' '*
8
o
44 j
22 1
1
20
42 i
4
13
33
91
2
5
1
9
2 1
2
8
I
82
2
2
1 5
3
3
i 65
1 17
I
1
1 i
4
183 2
35 1
r-
136
1 , 1
79
1
3 ] 1
1
21
12
90
765
3 i 4
3
2
1
3
1
51 1 3
4
1
7
1
1
2
1
1
7
2
57 11
1
t
1
6 1
1
4
q
«
1 -, 1
1
1
10
2
1
3
14
3
12
1
2
1
2
3
1
1
23 6
2
9
1
1
1.
9
1
1
2
1
1
12
3
11
14 2
13
1
1
2
1
7
82 ,
S 1
;
5
1
1
3
2
3
' 1
28
■ "'t
1 ' ...
2
7
12
2
1
1
1
3
....
1
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
6
1
4
1
17
1
3
17
4
2
24
2
7
10
1 2
2
1 12
13a
2
27
6
3
7
26
23
6
22
3
1
3
7
6
4
10
22
11
10
:::;:t3;"
180
83
23
2
1
3
103
1
34 i.
23
1
10
1
1
7
5
979
9 1
1
2
8
2
8
3
7
16
1
2
2 i
1
4
21
1
s
10 1
60
8
13
2
1
3
1
80 I
1
16
...
1
i "•••■I
1
16
» 1
1
4
10
3
1
1
1
.
3
1
42
/.....
4
..
4
11
o
12S
1
11
" 1 1
1 a 1
44
4
2
1
1 1
2!
1
1
1
5
3
R
IB
1
11
4
3
S
8
1
1
7
.... 10
S
5
13
44
2
5
1 1
j =>
1
1
1
3
69 .
i ^
16
148 3
398
2 ' 730
8 ' 529 8 1 646
13
85
! 1® 7
448
3 j 176
S
113
750
9 5,741 80
200
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 5.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
YeARS
FIRST aUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843 1 ism
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
399. 173.
319.
439. 453.
486.
1
SPECIFIC DISEASES. \
Cases.
Died, 'cases. Died. Cases. Died. 'Cases.l Died. Cases.' Died.
1 ' ' ' 1 '
Cases.
Died.
-
Febris congestiva
1
2
30
41
2
1
19
10 4
13 16
31
28
nfl 1
.... '■■■■■■!
1
10
1
1
I
r
3
1
i
1
Eruptive fevers ■
1
1
' Cholera Asiatica
55
9
43
16
27
13
8
4
12
1
Diseases of tlir organs
1
1... .
connected wiili ihe di-
gestive system.
1
1
Hfjialitis acuta
! ^ ■ 1 ^
1
16
44
. . . 12
2 13
1
S
9
,
All other diseases of this system .......
3
4
73
17
1
09
29 86
80
1
44
7
1
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
1
2
1 7
1 1
1 5
8
9
1
2
1
10
2
1
f
13
I
10
9
2
5
4
1
Diseases uf the brain and
nervous system.
3
1
{
1 : 1
1
3
in
1
a
5
8
3
5
1
Diseases of the urinarj-
and genital organs.
Diseases of the serous ^
and cxhalent vessels, i
S
1
6
All other diseases of this class
11
1 4
1
1
9
1
1
2
Diseases of the fibrous & ]
9
9
12
44
8
10
1
23
1
25
5
3
muscular structures.
f
Abscesses and ulcers.... ^
[
Rheumatismus, acutus et chronicus
19
1
16
7
29
25
rhleginon Pl abscessus
Ulcus
2
3
2
37
1
9
1
27
9
2
15
11
10
1
44
8
44 '
2
1
1
10
8
3
2
;;;;;.'
6
Wounds and injuries
_
14
10
1
7
12
7
5
10
7
5
5
3
4
1
1
' Dehiliias
3
12
• 1
1
4
12
1
13
1
1
Elmetas
17 1 3
5 1 ' 1
1
3
2
1
10
6
Miscellaneous .|
3
7
■ . *•
:Morlii oculi
1
13
1
14
2
1
" 1 : '-
22
23
14
1 Toul
,474 ' M-l I
386 ' 1 -TfiB 9 ■■'47 1
330 1 2
1
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE MIDDLE INTERIOR— WE.ST.
201
FIRST aUAKTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
BTKESGTH.
472. 341. i 116.
198.
430.
2S9.
450.
277.
447.
358.
5,647.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
I 1 ■
Died. Cases.' Died. Cases,, Died.
' ! i 1
Case3. Died.
Cases.
1
Died. Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total
cases.
Total
died.
1
4
241
401
4
23
2
8
3
1
3
6
306
87
5
4
8
1
60
64
1
44
2
14
15
4
13
U
2
2
7
4
19
1
1 -
25
14
47
4
31
o
3
1
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
":
i
1
I
6
43
2
;
2
' i
1
2
7
24
34
1
2
12
6
2
15
5
11
9
2
1
n
18
2
2
:
1
1
1
■
2
2 1
1
1
]
1
:::::■ ■:::"j:'-""
1
19
6
1
15
7
68
8
3 i
U
23
1
20
1
1 10
1 11
!
1
8
2
12
1
1
2
1
1
1
11
1
4
2
9
10
23
5
1
3
4
116 I
i '
3
1
83
174 1
86 : 1
••••••! ! "i •
5
1
75
1
2
22
1
1
1
21
1
656
5
63
29
10
" i
' i
6
3
1 I--
2
2
1
1
1 .-!
3
1
1
3
5
; 5
2
1
U 1
6
1
6
2
7
5
1
1
1
1
6
5
2
2
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
4
10
80
37
5
15
14
1
2
I
1
1
3
1
3
1
3
1
3
2
1
6
2
51
1
5
1
1 1 1
1
1 1
6
1
3
1
1
1
_
1
6 i
2
3
2
3 i
1
1
1
8
46
3
7
84
3
273
3
250
87
18
418
14
17
128
105
31
22
15
14
114
23
8
87
59
14
327
"■■■■i::::::
::::;■;::::: ::::::r:::
2
o
40
1
S
1
16
9
24
1
14
23
2
5
23
11
11
14
15
4
3
56
■••*■•
6
3
2
4
3
17
11
1
40
3
33
1
1
23
1
3
13
7
39
8
10
2
4
14
29
5
1
36
1
S
IS
1
24
1
..■>■•
23
1
6
2
1
1 17
4
2
2
13
1
4
3
3
3
11
1
1
e
9
4
1
2
6
6
3
1
1 14
1 2
1
1
11
10
3
21
7
7
3
1
1 ■
9
1
2
1
5
1
5
1
2
18
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
7
1
8
1
10
3
1
4
1
1
14
3
1
3
1
1
1
1
2
1
2 •
1
13
1
5
1
3
1
12
42
1
1
4
1
24
4
8
20
24
8
3
13
1
7
4
324
1
295 [ 2
66
96
5
3M
6
206
1
284
8
204
7
341
1
316
1
4,573
39
96 26
202
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 5.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
SECOND QUAKTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
338.
141.
300.
297.
420.
466.
SPECIFIC DISEASES. Cases.
1
Died. Cases.l
1 1 ! 1 i
Died. Cases. Died. Casts 1 Died. Cases.
1 1 1
Died. Cases.
Died.
1
3
63
12 1
S
17
7
70
1
2
48
50
58
86
11
1
5
Fcbris interniitlcns quartana
;.... 1
11
2
1
3
7
2
1
::::::...... 1
1
40
8
21
29
19
1
29
14
17
6
1
1
1
16
Dyscntoria acuta
4
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
2
2
1
1
11
29
2
6
1
gestive system.
3
17
9
12
12
11
3
11
4
39
1
10
3
3
9
1
2
1
1
13
30
24
1
I
All other diseases of this system
9
2
22
Diseases of the respira-
Pk'uritis
3
3
4
3
4
11
8
3
10
8 !
tory system.
1
All other diseases of this system
6
10
1
6
1
15
1
14
2
3
3
7
1
1
nervous system.
1
1
12
1
All other diseases of this system
3
1
1
1
2
11
1
1
4
....
3
1
Diseases of the nrinary^
' Syphilis consecutiva
6
2
1
and genital organs.
2
1 i
7
Diseases of the serous and S
exhalent vessels.
1
Diseases of the fibrous & J
muscular structures. 1
Rhciimatismus, acutus ct chronicus
20
4
6
14
16
26
34
7
15
11
1
34
3
1
1
5
18
9
15
3
2
■ . . . .
Abscesses and ulcers....
Ulcus
2
28
2
1
IS
31
34
24
2
41
1
Luxatio
Wounds and injuries
1 Sub-luxatio
5
6
4
5
19
8
3
7
5
1
3
3
13
2
1
2
4
7
1
1
1
2
4
S
2
3
5
11
1
5
2
1
2
1
1
4
t
Hisccllnneous
6
14
2
23
Morbi nculi
6
6
15
1
10 ;
1
10
2
18
28
8
5
ToLiI
319
178
311
1
287
368
3
428
2
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TEOOPS AT POSTS IN I'HE MIDDLE INTERIOR.— WEST.
203
1
SECOND QUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENGTH.
353.
466.
179. 444.
272. 283. i 357.
1
296.
579. 499.
5,690.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
1
1
Died. 1
1
3ase«.. Died. Cases.
Died. Cases. Died.jCases. Died. Cases. Died. ,Caacs.| Died. Cases.! Died. Cases. Died. ^|fj Total
1 1 ! 1 III
1
8
82
106
2
1
1
12
481
817
8
42
2
15
66
7
88
619
134
3
6
14
3
164
^6
70
1
:""::::::i;:::::'::::"i
1
1
29
82
1
36
49
2
2
28
16 ,
10
61
.... -----I
1
i
15 ,
8
'
19
26 '
3
1
33
30
1
9
lis
28
83
2
1
12
2 i 3 1
2
1
1
1
2
SO
16
3
3
7
43
73
5
1
21
:::::;:::::i
36
77
4
19
1
2
20
12
2
1
7
125
6
a
44
12
8
38
25
6
2
SI
1
1
1
27
3
1
51
4
I
3
3
1
^ I
1
1
2 1
4
::"a:::::i
3
1 1
1 '
1
1
57
1
1
19
10
9
16
4
18
3
40
U
1
1
8
2
5
17
6
3
32
3
16
15
8
2
92
6
11
1
"io"!::::::'
9
7
4
1
23
1
4 1
i 208
1
1 1
1 I
4
1
1
3
9
2
9 !
76
27
19
112
" 41
IS
11
8
ra
13
12
49
2
1
5
, K
2
B
11
1
13
2
1
7 :
2
"v:::':\
2
1
1
6
3
3
1
1
4
1
4
2
1
1
1
3
■'T'::::::
7
4
2
3
1
1
2
3
1
4
1
1
3
6
1
2
7
3
2
1
11
1
1
1
2
5
1
1
5
1
2
5
2
1
2
2
2
2
1
2
2
3
1
4
4
1
1
1
1
1
4
1
6
1
1
6
3
I
2
1
3
3
3
3
309
1
230
98
14
3
401
20
13
3
103
74
60
19
1
17
1
1
7
IS
6
8
6
8
18
22
16
1
17
13
5
15
3
1
31
2
2
3
5
3
1
2
6
1
1
20
1
8
5
2
7
4
3
11
8
17
5
22
6
2
10
4
8
3
1
8
9
2
1
1
1 ■■■
22
6
27
24
2
15
34
1
38
1
1
1
1
7
8
3
......
9
1
1
1
1
9
2
11
2
1
3
3
1
1
2
11
6
33
2
8
7
17
2
25
2
15
3
1
4
4
1
1
1
1 1
: i
1
i
i
3
1
1
' 2
9
1
2
1
9
2
15
3
1
1
2
11
1
33 ,
9
1
2
i
1 ■■>
6
S
....
2
1
81
19
4
16
112
27
1 1 '
1
5
4
1
1
S
3
2
1 1
7
5
i
1
1
7
1
7
285
4
7
24
5
2
11
8
17
25
18
. 5
4
17
353 1
320
4
458
2
131
1 ' 348 6
22
252
'
445 ' 21 1 355 6
1
367 2
503 4
' 5.053 ! 75
204
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 5.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
THinD aUARTEIt.
1839. 1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean strength
318.
260.
282.
430.
445.
363.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
2
a
4
1
139
84
6
1
1
1
97
45
Fcbris intermittens quotidiana
Fcbris intermittens tertiana
115
22
22
3
9
10
21
2
24
50
13
15
3
2
I.
Ervsipcliis
6
1
1
1
f
Diarrhcca
83
50
76
1
73
50
37
19
29
7
21
21
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-.
Enteritis
gestive system.
Hepatitis acuta
2
1
2
2
60
1 1
6
24
16
45
1
8
j 18
i )5
9
17
21
21
All other disrascs of this system
6
1
1
1
15
6
' 187
13
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
1
2
1
Plcuritis
4
4
2
14
6
4
5
10
Pneumonia
All other diseases of this system
Cephalalgia
21
2
10
3
12
4
2
13
2
Diseases of the brain and.
Epilepsia
1
1
2
1
1
nervous system.
1
1
11
All other diseases of tliis system
2
1
1
5
3
2
2
4
7
3
Diseases of the urinary
Syphilis primitiva
3
and genital organs.
1
1
1
All other diseases of this class. . .
S
5
Diseases of the serous (
and e.xhalent \'cssels. ^
Diseases of the fibrous & J
2
1
1
1
Podagra
muscular structures.
Rheumatismus, acutus et ehronicus
Fistula
12
16
1
74
19
1
12
15
9
24
Abscesses and ulcers . . . . ■
26
2
43
11
43
17
13
9
1
1
Ulcus
4
1
Ambustio
1
16
1
32
2
2
8
4
1
2
7
12
4
1
Contusio
17
24
.w
22
3
Fractura
3
Sub-luxatio
11
6
17
13
1
10
10
1
4
2
5
Vulnus incisum
14
Vulims laceratuni
9
Vulnus punctum
1
1
1
1
1
Debilitas
7
2
9
12
2
1
1
4
4
6
T :::::.
Hernia
Morbi cutis
2
2
2
13
1
Miscellaneous ^
1
3
4 (.
10
6
Morbi oeuli
22 19
.....i::::"i
(
All other diseases
47
8
1
17 1 Qn
1
23
14
Total
I
426
2
486
1
466
3 1 dttR
3
636 ^
421
1
1
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TEOOPS AT POST'S IN THE MIDDLE INTERIOR— WEST.
205
THIBO QUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853. 1854.
STRENGTH.
S78.
128.
171.
174.
275.
156.
298.
347.
309. 338.
4,572.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.! Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases. Died. Cases.! Died.
i
Total Total
cases, died.
1
1
252
99
1
18
7
7
1,123
666
18
152
3
1
81
51
3
74
113
62
42
1
35
8
13
1
7
16
33
10
4
18
87
47
75
58
11
33
i
4
2 I--
9
8
8
3
....
...
1
i
8
46
31
676
272
6
3
7
3
179
261
14
268
8
35
22
6
109
31
8
6
19
42
14
5
30
S
7
1
43
1
15
84
2
1
5
1
11
39
1
6
1
5
48
6
4
3
2
14
20
11
21
12
26
14
26
2
38
8
37
35
44
8
4
2
1
1
1
11
20
8
1
5
4
10
7
21
1
18
6
1 '
26
3
5
3
1
5
8
2
3
5
2
5
1
1
8
2 '
1 '
............
2
1
1
11
5
1
1
3
3
2
1
2
13
1
2
1
3
1 '
1
1
5
1
5
1
3
8
7 1
4 i
5
4
1
.
5
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
3
2
1
3 1
5
1
1
1
1
3
4
3
_
1
1
...|
1
5
1
2
2
I
2
1
3 ;
2
1
1
3
4
1
1
1
1
10
4
1
7
5
6
4
9
7
1
16
4
'■
7
1
19
4
1
148
3
296
90
12
1
2
265
12
3
78
78
60
18
7
28
97
34
7
38
97
2
■ 1
205
5
11
4
1
2 '
9
n
4
•
10
2
10
10
6
1
2
1
1
::::::!:::::;::;:::::::
6
6
U
8
10
10
2
7
12
2
18
3
14
:::::j
1
1
2
2
9
4
4
1
2
3
2
5
1
1
6
2
3
1
1
2
1
6
3
2
13
3
4
3
10
1
7
5
1
2
j
4
1
2
1
(
...
2
6
2
2
4
1
2
1
5
4
1
2
1
1
2
2
6
1
4
5
2
1
3
4
1
3
1
1
1
1
2
1
,
2
3
3
6
1 !
3
4
7
1
7
1
1
9
1
1
11
8 !
14
8
7
3
5
7
' 4
1
3
528
215 1
296
130
1
236
8
203
8
354 1 6
318 1
3^13 ' 2>0
2
5,676 1 37
206
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 5.— ABSTRACT 01' THK PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
FOURTH QUARTER.
1839. 1840.
1841.
1842.
1843. 1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
279.
321.
389.
433. 510.
485.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
1
Died. Coses.
1
Died.
Coses.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
2
15
8
11
79
1
103
30
1
146
55
1
1
106
Fevers '
Febris intermittens tcrliana ,
Febris intermittens quartana
58
14
1
10
51
33 1 1
2
Ervsipc'l'i'j
2
1
1
Eruptive fevers ■
^
68
1
53
33
27
18
37
4
1
24
6
18
6
Diseases of the organs
1
1
1
connected with tlic di- '
; Hepatitis acuta
1
gcsiive system.
2
17
32
1
1
1
4
2 !
n
9
20
16
18
AM other diseases of this system
21
20
"ey" .;:.::
63
53
48
1
1
2
1
11
3
37
2
10
9
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
Pkiiritis
4
1
a
5
1
1
5
2
1
6
I All other diseases of this system
9
4
3
1
1
2
1
Diseases of the brain and.
nervous system.
1
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
1
7
1
All other diseases of this system
2
4
I
1
4
1
6
1
Diseases of the urinary
1
and genital organs.
2
4
1
5
Diseases of the serous r
and exhalent vessela. t
Diseases of the fibrous &
muscular structures.
I
6
2
2
3
2
1
1
1
17
6
Uheimialismus, ncutus et chronicus
14
12
15
16
14
Abscesses and ulcers
rhIcKinoii ct abscespus
Ulcus
10
6
44
11
4
32
2
..*..
27
13
2
19
18
13
1
32
13
27
14
5
1
50
1
1
11
30
2
2
5
14
18
Wouads and injuries....
7
4
13
5
5
4
10
9
13
6
3
2
23
1
3
10
2
2
1
1
15
3
1
9
1
2
Debilitas
!::::::
2
1
2
1
10
1
1
2
16
4
i
4
1
6
2
1
Miscellaneous
11
12
R
11
1
; 1
33
19
1
7
17
i -
Total
I320J X
465
2
385
.....
395
3
528
1
427
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE MIDDLE INTERIOR— WEST.
207
FOURTH QUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849. 1850.
, 1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENGTH.
353.
121.
225.
sou.
218.
456.
273.
406.
390.
308.
5,367.
Cases.
Died. (
images.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Dasea.
Died.
Cases.
1
Died. Cases.
I
Died.
Cases.
Died. <
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total Total
cases. I died.
1
•
1
21
79
2
1
1
48
19
1
13 1
276
87
3
2
62
40
22
30
3
1
5
20
12
37
1 15
103
61
26
45
1,001
675 '
1
10
3
1
1
2
1
! 4
1
7
5
67 1
5
1
t
1
8
j
1 1
■
1
1
1
U
1
3
1
22
3
18
4
17
1
:::::
63
12
5
1
37
51
24
3
37
16
1
73
559 1
130 1
8
3
2
1
1
6
1
1
3
4
2
7
2
2
7
6
11
15
8
5
9
2
2
17
2
60
1
13
4
1
6
4
2
13
1
48
1
1
8
2
1
13
3
28
5
1
1
114
1
1
152
98
451
6
59
25
4
57
18
8
9
16
45
4
5
9
33
4
4
35
1
213
28
1
9
30
12
3
2
1
2
3
2
1
2
4
2
1
1
3
4
4
2
1
2
1
3
1
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
3
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
3
......
2
3
3
4
1
1
1
1
4
2
1
2
1
1
3
2
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
13
1
1
1
3
8
9
1
5
4
24
2
16
27
22
15
13
4
1
21
1
4
5
6
7
4
1
21
22
5
2
22
1
23
7
1
13
2
12
6
18
2
1
23
12
18
3
15
14
6
255
133
18
348
9
6
5
137
93
82
16
10
20
71
27
9
32
81
a
K4
1
5
16
3
35
'
1
1
1
12
4
4
1
4
4
1
10
1
6
5
4
2
1
2
a
3
6
11
2
......
28
3
21
S
19
5
14
1
3
2
1
2
4
3
21
2
1
1
1
8
2
1
1
1
1
3
1
3
2
I
3
i
3
5
2
2
S
4
1
1
4
1
1
7
2
2
1
5
4
4
1
5
33
10
1
10
7
16
5
1
9
19
3
548
129
160
2
144
174
299
a
329
388
390
2
346
a
5,427 16
j
SOUTHERN DIVISION.
SOUTH ATLANTIC KEGION.
This region represents that portion of the Atlantic coast lying between the 30th and 35th
degrees of latitude. It includes four military stations — Forts Macon, Johnston, and Moultrie,
and Oglethorpe Barracks.
FORT MACON.
Fort Macon, the most northern of this class, is situated on the point of Bogue island, near
Beaufort, North Carolina, in latitude 34° 41', longitude 76° 40'; having an altitude of 40 feet
above the level of the ocean, to which it is directly exposed. Since 1839 it has been only occa-
sionally occupied by troops, and since 1849 has been abandoned.
FORT JOHNSTON.
Fort Johnston is situated in the town of Smithville, North Carolina, immediately on the
Atlantic coast, three miles from the mouth of Cape Fear river, latitude 34°, longitude 78° 5'.
There are some marshy lands within the distance of half a mile. Since 1839 this post has been
garrisoned at irregular intervals.
OGLETHORPE BARRACKS.
This military post is in the suburbs of Savannah, which is distant about 12 miles, in a direct
line, from the ocean. Situated upon a sandy plain, elevated about 40 feet above low-water
mark, this city stands upon the southern side of the river of the same name. This ridge extends
upwards of a mile along the river, terminating abruptly. At the depth of twenty or thirty
feet, fine water is obtained. The city is bounded on the east and west by alluvial soil, called^
in the language of the country, tide swamp; being subject to inundations by the ordinary spring
tides. It is consequently well adapted to the cultivation of rice. The city, divided by numerous
and wide streets intersecting each other at right angles, is open and spacious ; and, being planted
with the pride of India (vielia azedarach), the long-continued heats of summer, moderated by
the sea-breeze, prove less oppressive than in some more northern towns.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT MOULTRIE. <»
By Surgeon John B. Porter : 1854.
In the report of sick for Fort Moultrie for the quarter ending December 31st, 1852, no re-
marks were made in relation to the severe epidemic, (yellow fever,) for the reason that it was
intended to give a full account of the disease, both at Fort Moultrie and on Sullivan's island;
and I now proceed to the undertaking.
•* Upon an examination of the material relating to the diseases of the army, which had accumulated in the Surgeon Gen.
eral's office during the period included in this report, it was found necessary to exclude certain portions, in order to confine
this work within reasonable limits. It was therefore determined to discard the numerous special reports of medical and
surgical cases of "unusual interest," and to omit the details of cases, tabular reports of sick, and registers of meteorologi-
cal observations, when forming part of the reports on the topography and diseases of the several stations.
This report, however, constitutes an exception to that rule ; and necessarily so, for the reason, that the cases form
6. 96 27
210 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
In large cities, it is often difBcult to trace the origin of disease; Lut in small places, where
the movements of every person can be easily known, the facts are often so evident that little
doubt exists in relaf ion to its causes. This is especially the fact in relation to the yellow fever
of 1852, on Sullivan's Island and at Fort Moultrie ; the movements of every person attached to
the garrison, in any sort of capacity, being easily traced at the commencement of the epidemic.
Sullivan's Island is on the north side of the small bay which forms Charleston harbor,
making a part of it, the west end or cove being between four and five miles from the city of
Charleston, extending to the east about three miles, and being from one quarter of a mile to
one and a half or two miles in breadth. It is a sandy island, and is but slightly elevated above
the level of the sea ; severe storms having been known to carry the waves over it so as almost
to submerge it. Boats have been rowed from Fort Moultrie down Middle street, and the resi-
dents of the island were obliged to shelter themselves in the fort. The superficial geology
and medical topography, sufficient for all practical purposes to the physician, is soon given:
sand on the surlace, and black sand or mud below this. In dry seasons, water is found from a
few inches to two or three feet beneath the surface ; and in wet seasons, the whole island, ex-
cept the hills of sand-drift, seems to be nearly imder water. From the main land on the north,
the island is separated by a channel about one-half or three-fourths of a mile wide, which is
nearly fordable at low water.
Fort Moultrie is on the south side of the island, on the main channel or entrance into Charles-
ton harbor, being nearly one mile from the cove, and between five and six miles from the city
of Charleston. Charleston (St. Michael's church) is in latitude 32° 46' 33" N.; longitude 79°
57' 27" W. The fort, according to the army report of 1840, is in latitude 32° 42' N.; longi-
tude 7'J° 56' W. By the observations of the Coast Survey, if I am not mistaken, Fort Moultrie
is situated in latitude 32° 46' N. ; longitude 79° 46' W. The fort is surrounded on three sides
by the village of Moultrieville — a resort in the summer.
" To prove that yellow fever can be imported into a place, I should take an island in the
middle of the ocean; I would surround it with other islands possessing the same characters of
climate and soil, and peopled by the same race. I would have this island healthy for at least
fifty years. Then I would have arrive at it a ship scourged with yellow fever; this ship should
implore succor, and it should be granted ; yet, as a wise precaution, some kind of quarantine
should be established. Of all the inhabitants of the island, some few only should be brought
into the immediate presence of the sick. Within the period fixed by experience as the stage of
incubation of this disease, one or two of these few, and these only, should begin to suffer from
the same disease ; then from these suiferers the disease should gradually spread as from a cen-
tre, until the whole island was infected. While, however, this one island was thus ravaged,
the adjoining islands, which the infected vessel had not visited, should remain perfectly free, in
order to prove that there was no (so styled) epidemic constitution. Then, if all these condi-
tions were fulfilled, I would confess that yellow fever may be contagious, and can be imported."
(Brit, d- For. Med. Chir. Rev., Oct. 1852, p. 215.)
The same review vouches the truth of the foregoing supposed circumstances at Boa Vista,
even to the health "^tor at least fifty years;" for "no epidemic has ever been recorded until
this." If Boa Vista, situated within the tropics, in latitude 16° 5' north, has been without an
epidemic fever fifty years previous to the arrival of the "Eclair," Sullivan's Island, more than
32° north of the equator, and more than 9° north of the tropic of Cancer, must be still more
salubrious; for "no epidemic has ever been recorded;" and there has been so much said about
an essential part of the history of the epidemic which Surgeon Porter descrihes. Tlie original report cites, in more or less
of detail, 111 cases, and gives abstracts of the meteorological observations at Fort Moultrie for the years 1849, 1850, 1851,
1852, and 1853. To publish the whole entire, would occupy more space than can be commanded for that purpose. To de-
cide what cases should be withheld from publication, was embarrassing. The endeavor has been to retain those most inti-
mately connected with the origin and early progress of the epidemic, or which peculiarly serve to illustrate the treatment.
The cases are numbered as in the original report. — C.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 211
its salubrity; its health is annually announced with such a flourish of trumpets by the Charles-
ton newspapers and their correspondents ; and the Army Medical Statistics have been so often
invoked in its favor, that, for all epidemics, in all time, some arrival from Castle Pinckney, or
Charleston; some "Bann," or "Eclair," will surely be found to convey tlie "germ of conta-
gion" to this favored spot, which, left to itself, would have never known disease or death. A
brief medical history, therefore, of Sullivan's Island, previous to the epidemic yellow fever of
1852, may be acceptable.
There appears to be three classes of advocates for the salubrity of Sullivan's Island:
1. Those wlio assert that no disease can originate on the island.
2. Those who assert that no fever can originate on the island.
3. Those who assert that yellow fever cannot originate on the island.
It is proposed to show that several diseases may originate, and have originated, on Sullivan's
Island — as cholera infantum, dysentery, intermittent fever, remittent i'ever, and yellow fever.
Dr. Strobel, of Cliarleston, a strong advocate of the transmissibility of yellow fever — in other
words, a strong contagionist — gives the following account in his Essay:
"Sullivan's Island is a mere sand-bank, free from ponds, marshes, and vegetation, constantly
expjsed to the refreshing breezes of the sea, and resorted to by strangers and persons of leisure
as a delightful retreat from the noise and bustle of the city. Now, according to the reasoning
of our adversaries, it is impossible that yellow fever can be generated tlicre from local causes.
Yet instances are on record of its having prevailed there epidemically in 1817; and, if we mis-
take not, a number of cases occurred in 1838-'39. [Dr. Strobel's note: 'We are permitted to
cite one case, that of a young lady, who came from the country, and proceeded to Sullivan's
Island before the fever prevailed in Charleston. She took the fever and was very ill.'] Be this
as it may, we cannot be mistaken as to the occurrences of 1817, for we distinctly recollect that
an attempt was then made to attribute the fever to some local cause, such as a gutter, or a
small pond. The yellow fever had not prevailed in Charleston from the year 1807 up to this
time, a period often years. Upon the revival of commerce, however, at the close of the war of
1812^ a sudden irruption of yellow fever took place, at a time when the city was filled with
strangers. Sullivan's Island was then considered as a safe retreat from the fever, and a very
large number of persons went there in hopes to avoid it ; many of them were in indigent circum-
stances, and, of course, crowded together in narrow, confined apartments. Under these circum-
stances, the fever was transmitted from Charleston to that place, and many persons died of it.
* * * Many persons, arriving in our harbor, and learning the condition of the city, proceeded
from the vessels immediately to the island, where they sickened and died.'" — Pages 200, 201.
In 1824 yellow fever again prevailed on Sullivan's Island. "On referring back to 182'1, it
is found that, whilst this disease prevailed with great malignity in the city, not more than
twelve cases, none of which proved fatal, appeared on the island, in a strength of seventy." —
{Army Med. Statistics, p. 201.)
From the foregoing extract, it appears that the yellow fever of 1824 was much milder among
the troops at Fort Moultrie than among the residents of the island without the fort. In cer-
tain localities the fever was very malignant, and many deaths occurred, particularly in a house
now owned by Mr. 0. B. Hilliard. Since that fatal epidemic, this lot has been raised, by
several hundred cart-loads of sand, and the residence has been much more healthy than pre-
viously, but has not entirely outlived the reputation acquired in that sickly summer. Indeed,
the whole square, or block, including Mr. Hilliard's lot, from Accommodation street on the
east, to Fort street on the west, and from Middle street on the south, to the back beach on
the north, was greatly afflicted with malignant fever during the epidemic summer of 1824, and
the whole island was more or less sickly.
"In the 3d quarter of 1834, there are five cases of febris icterodes reported, two of which
proved fatal. Of these cases, two originated in Charleston, and the other three at Castle Pinck-
ney."— (^rm?/ Med. Stat., p. 201.)
212 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
We will transcribe the interesting communication of Dr. Eobert Lebbj', now of Charleston,
to Dr. Strobel — interesting in relation to the fevers of Sullivan's Island, and other points, and
in connexion with tlie subject of contagion:
"Fort Moultrie, January IG, 1840.
"In reply to your letter of the 6th instant, requesting any information in my possession
relative to the fever which has prevailed in the city of Charleston and its vicinity for several
seasons past, I have to inform you that the first cases of yellow fever came under my notice in
August, 1827, at Fort Johnson. Three men belonging to a company of United States artillery,
stationed at that post, remained a night in the city during the existence of yellow or stranger's
fever. On the ninth day after, they were attacked with the disease, within a few hours of each
other. There was no doubt of the nature of the disease, it being a fever of but one paroxysm,
and yielded on the sixth day, favorably. These individuals were strangers to the climate, and
had never been here before. They were natives of Germany, Ireland, and Massachusetts.
They were not removed froTU their quarters (the hospital at the time being out of repair); and,
during the period of their sickness, ten or twelve men slept in the.same room with them, who
were alike strangers to the climate, yet there were no other cases of disease in the garrison.
The next occurrence of the disease was in IBol, at Castle Pinckney. One of the Irish laborers
died in the city of supposed yellow fever. This was an intemperate man. Several other cases
of fever occurred afterwards among the laborers, who were brought to Fort Johnson ; but, ac-
cording to my humble opinion, they proved to be bilious remittent fever — were treated as such,
and recovered.
"In 1832, the disease appeared in the city of Charleston, and, from two or three of the first
cases being traced to the Irish laborers at the Castle, it was supposed to have originated there ;
and, if I recollect aright, I think a deputation of the medical members of the board of health
were sent over to ascertain, if possible, the cause or causes of its origin. It was ascribed by
those gentlemen to a quantity of shells taken from the adjacent oyster-banks for the purpose of
filling up the parade-ground. From this opinion, however, coming, as it did, from so highly
respectable a source, and from gentlemen of known scientific attainments, I diff"ered at the time,
with due deference to their experience. And in obedience to an order, I examined the premises,
and was of opinion that the causes of the fever were the opening of two privies in the north
wall, which had been bricked up for a number of years ; their contents, in a decomposed state,
taken out in the month of August, and exposed to the action of the sun on the bank near by ;
together with the exposure of the lower story of the quarters to the action of the atmosphere,
it being necessary to rip up the floors, which had sunk down to the surface of the ground, and
had remained in that state for some years. It will also be recollected that this fort had been
used for some time previous as a lazaretto. The exposure of a surface which had been so long
protected from the action of the sun's rays, — is it not more than probable that, when thus ex-
posed, the exhalations therefrom would engender disease of some kind? In this instance, like-
wise, every one of the cases brought to Fort Johnson was bilious remittent fever. Among those
attacked were Lieutenant (now Captain) Brewerton, the master carpenter, two masons, and
several black laborers. Yellow fever prevailed in Charleston that season, I think, to some ex-
tent. The venerable Dr. Philip G. Prisleau attended Captain Brewerton with me as consulting
physician, who may, perhaps, recollect the case.
"The next occurrence of fever under my notice, and which was confirmed yellow fever, was
in September, 1838 — the mate of one of the lighters, an Englishman by birth, about eighteen
years of age, who had been in the harbor about seven or eight months. He slept one night in
the city, in September; on the fourth day he sickened, and, although he was among children
at Sullivan's Island, and others who were liable to contract the disease, no other instance of it
occurred in the family. He recovered.
"The next occurrence of the fever was on the 16tli June, 1839. Capt. K., of United States
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 213
lighter Valiant, lying in the cove of Sullivan's Island, was taken on this date. He reported
at the hospital of Fort Johnson. This man had not been in the city, from all the information
I could obtain, for twelve days, at least, previous to his attack. From the history he gave of
himself, and the symptoms exhibited, I was of opinion that he was laboring under intermittent
fever, resembling that form known as country fever. In the evening there was a distinct inter-
mission, the fever going ofFwith copious i^erspiration. Between this period and the evening of
the 21st there were two distinct paroxysms. On the morning of the 22d it assumed the con-
tinued form ; on the 23d he commenced ejecting black vomit, bleeding from his blisters, mouth,
and rectum ; and on the 24th he died.
"The next case admitted was on the 20th June, from the lighter Sea Flower, lying at the
wharf at Fort Johnson. This vessel had been engaged for some time in transporting materials
from this post to Fort Moultrie. The captain had not been to the city for many weeks. His
symptoms were exactly like the first at its commencement; the paroxysms distinct, assuming
the double tertian form, and going off in profuse perspiration, occasioning great prostration; it
yielded to a very energetic treatment, although there was great gastric inflammation, and some
hemorrhage from the bowels. He was a very temperate, regular man in his habits, while the
former was the reverse.
"The third case was admitted on the 22d June. This individual was sent on board the
Valiant as soon as her captain was taken sick, to relieve him. He was a northerner by birth,
in high health, and a perfectly temperate man. This case was well marked yellow fever from
its commencement; it yielded on the night of the fifth day, and he recovered. This man had
been frequently to and from the city, transporting stone to the breakwater. On the next day
a third case from the Valiant was brought to the hospital; this was a black man, with bilious
congestive fever ; and on that evening another black, with the same fever, from the lighter
Fame, from Charleston. Immediately after the admission of the third case from the Valiant,
I addressed a note to the commanding officer, expressing my suspicion that there were local
causes about the Valiant calculated to generate disease, and suggesting to him the propriety of
removing her crew (who were northern men) immediately, and to have the vessel ventilated
and well cleansed. Captain Harvey, of Charleston, was placed in command of her, who stated
to me that he found a large quantity of decomposed cabbages and potatoes, and other vegetable
matter, in a putrid state, in her lockers, and a quantity of dirt and filth between her ceiling.
Several of the negroes engaged in cleaning her were taken sick with intermittent and conges-
tive fever. She was scuttled, and allowed to remain full of water for some days. After this
she was pumped out, and continued perfectly healthy the rest of the season.
"The next case occurred at Fort Moultrie — an Irishman, who had not been in the city from
May ; this occurred the latter part of August. On the 18th September, the assistant of Captain
Bowman was taken with yellow fever. He had been in the city on the 10th and Ifth; he
recovered. On the 20th, Capt. Bowman was taken with bilious inflammatory fever. He had
not been from Sullivan's Island during the season. Several other cases occurred amons the
families residing back of the fort. While they assumed a continued form of f?ver, and in many
of their symptoms were nearly allied to yellow fever, it was very doubtful whether they could
be properly placed under the head of genuine typhus icterodes. Many cases of inflammatory or
broken-bone fever (so called) occurred in October among the workmen.
"In reply to the latter part of your letter, 'whether they (the lighters) did not communicate
with vessels from Havana or Matanzas lying at the quarantine ground?' I have taken consider-
able trouble to ascertain this fact, from every source that a correct knowledge of facts could be
derived ; and I have no hesitation in asserting, that, with one'exception, there never was any
communication with the quarantine vessels and the government lighters, or with any one in
the service of the United States. The exception alluded to was the captain of the steamer
Sumpter; on one occasion he sent his boat on board the John C. Calhoun, some days after she
had been boarded bv Dr. Simons. No ill effects resulted from it, for neither of the negroes tliat
214
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
were in the boat was sick afterwards. The steamboat continued to perform her repfular duties
between the city and fort throughout the season, and, thoTigh her engineer and mate were entire
strangers, there were no cases of fever on board.
"I liave thus endeavored to place at your disposal a plain statement of facts, as they occurred,
under my own observation, almost from the commencement of my professional career. I have
most carefully excluded any opinion of my own upon the contagiousness of yellow fever, or that
fever which has prevailed in Charleston for the last two seasons; but, in conclusion, pardon me
for entertaining the idea, at the same time expressing it, that there wore siifficient causes, both
local and general, to have produced an epidemic of some kind. It was to be expected from the
peculiarity of the season of 1838, as well as the extreme hot sun by day, in the latter part of
May and beginning of June, and the cold northerly winds that blew by night, at the commence-
ment of the summer of 1839." — {Strobel on the Traiismissibility of Yelloio Fever, pp. 190-196.)
These are the only records I have been able to find in relation to the epidemics of Sullivan's
Island during the pi-esent century, or, indeed, since the first settlement; and, from them, two
prominent points are established: that yellow and other fevers did originate, from 1817 to 1839,
at Charleston, Castle Pincknej', Sullivan's Island, and on board lighters in the service of the
United States in the harbor of Charleston ; and that none of these fevers were contagious.
That malignant fever originated on Sullivan's Island, in some of these years, there is no sort of
doubt.
From 1839 to 1849 yellow fever did not appear in Charleston ; but in the autumn of the last-
named year the disease prevailed, and there were a number of fatal cases.
Abstract of the quarterly reports of sick at Fort Moultrie, S. C.,for the year 1849.
Jan
Feb.
Mar.
Apr.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Total.
Deaths.
Aggregate
Mean strengtu
111
103
100
99
101
98
81
58
52
59
59
58
979
DISEASES.
Febris intermittens quotidiana
3
1
1
4
8
28
10
142
1
2
4
1
5
1
6
3
19
1
1
12
....
1
4
7
4
2
19
1
4
2
3
5
2
12
28
11
16
8
3
Total
35
15
13
29
15
24
27
5
10
10
10
4
197
Average mean strength for the year : Officers, 6.83 ; enlisted men, 74.75 ; total, 81. 58.
This table shows the health of the troops at Fort Moultrie for the year, diseases strictly cli-
matic being given, and "all others." But there was much more disease among women and
children than appears on the reports. On the report for the quarter ending September 30th,
are the following remarks: "During September there was considerable sickness ; much more
than appears on the face of the report, as a large number of women and children, belonging to
the post, and left behind by troops in the field, were present. Their diseases were principally
intermittents and dysentery ; the last severe in many instances, but none of the cases were
fatal." In the report for the quarter ending December 31st, are the following remarks: "In
October, while yellow fever prevailed in Charleston, there was considerable sickness which does
not appear on the face of the report, being among females and cliildren — jirincipally bowel affec-
tions. November was more healthy thau October, and December still more healthy ; though
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
215
in all the quarter there has heen more sickness than appears on the report." It is to be re-
gretted tliat the diseases of women and children were not registered. The next year was sickly,
as will fully aj)pear hereafter.
. Abstract of quarterly reports of sick at Fort 3Ioultrie, S. C, for 1850.
Jan.
Feb.
Mar.
April.
May. June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Total.
Deaths.
Aggregate
1
i
strength.
Mean stkexgth
59
59
55
52
48
46
44 \ 44
44
44
96 192
1
783
i
DISEASES.
Febris continua
1
1
1
Febris quotidiana intermittens
!
1
1
1
2
Febris tertiana intermittens i
1
1 1
3
39
11
4
7n
Febris remittens
11
25
2
Diarrhoea
1
—
1
1
1
9
2 1 6
1 L...
7 [ 10
Dys enteria acuta
1
5
1
8
8
1
1
8
i
4
9 5
Total
9 i
SI.'!
10 17
31
3
12 1'
T?0 1
Average mean strength for the year : Officers, 6.41 ; enlisted men, 58.83 : total, 65.24.
Deaths, 2 — one in July, from convulsions caused by obscure disease of the brain ; one in
September, from apoplexy.
Four companies of the 2d artillery arrived from Florida in the quarter ending 31st Decem-
ber, (on November 27,) one of which went to Castle Pinckney; and from this date the garrison
of Fort Moultrie consisted of four companies. The foregoing tables include the sick properly
belonging to the garrison of Fort Moultrie, the rest being carefully excluded ; but, as these
general reports and tables give but a faint idea of the fevers in August and September, it will
be necessary to notice the epidemic more particularly.
From the meteorological tables it will be perceived that the summer of 1849 was compara-
tively cool and wet, and that the summer of 1850 was hot and dry ; but no one can form an
idea of the continued and intense heat during the summer of the latter, unless he had been a
resident, or has an opportunity to study the daily meteorological observations of that period.
From the 26th day of June to the 8th of September there were only six days in which the daily
mean of the thermometer did not range from 80° to 90° ; there was only one day in July when
the daily mean of the thermometer was not 80°, and above; there were only five days in Au-
gu.st in which the daily mean was not 80°, and above; and there were twelve days in Septem-
ber in which the daily mean was 80° and above.
In July the thermometer ranged as follows: Sunrise, from 74° to 86°; 9, a.m., from 80 to
89; 3, p. m., from 81 to 95; 9, p. m., from 77 to 86.
In August: Sunrise, from 73 to 84; 9, a.m., 79 to 90; 3, p.m.^ 78 to 94; 9, p.m., 77 to 86.
September: Sunrise, from 60 to 80; 9, a.m., 65 to 88; 3, p.m., 76 to 91 ; 9, p.m., 67 to 85.
Health of Charleston previous to the epidemic. — Yellow fever in the autumn of 1849 ; scarla-
tina and other eruptive diseases during the following winter and in the si)ring of 1850.
Health of Sullivan s Island. — In the summer of 1849, bowel aflections and intermittents.
No yellow fever in the fall of 1849, as in Charleston. In the following winter there were catar-
rhal aflections and diarrhoea, especially among children. Pertussis, common. In April, 1850,
scarlatina was introduced from Charleston, and a nuuiber of severe cases, of the anginose and
216 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
maliguaiit varieties, occurred in tlie montlis of April, May, and June, several of which proved
fatal. The clilorate of potassa and the chlorine mixture, as recommended by Watson, were tried,
hut witliout the least benefit. In some of the last cases inunction was tried, as 1 thought, with
good effect. Olive-oil was used. Oily or greasy applications to the surface appear to act by
softening and preserving the cuticle; the action of the skin is not checked as when the cuticle
dries, cracks, and peels off; and, in consequence, dro])sical effusions, the most dangerous of the
sequels, are not so common, extensive, or fatal. In June and July, bowel affections, including
cholera infantum, were common among children. Prickly heat (lichen tropicus) was universal,
from infancy to threescore and ten ; boils were almost universal ; and phlegmonous and car-
buncular abscesses were extremely common.
The epidemic fever began in Charleston in July, but its appearance was later on Sullivan's
Island, and it spread rapidly and universally — scarcely a single person in a family esca])ing.
The fever did not, for some reason or other, attack the garrison of Fort Moultrie, this year,
until it had spread to almost every part of the island, and for a time there seemed to be a pro-
tecting line drawn around the public grounds ; but when the fever did come, it came like an
avalanche, and swept all before it. The first case of fever in garrison occurred on the 20th of
August, and the epidemic was nearly over by the end of September — there being only two
cases in the month of October.
Symptoms. — A few of the prominent ones will be given : Cephalalgia was general in the early
stage, often severe in the orbital and frontal regions ; occasionally the eyes were suffused and
a little injected, all going off as the disease progressed or was under treatment; pains in
the back and limbs were universal; gastric irritability, frequent; pain or tenderness of the
epigastrium, almost universal. The skin was sometimes hot and dry; oftener there was not
much heat, but a tendency to clammy sweat, or cold and profuse perspiration. The patients
with hot and dry skin were regarded in much the most favorable light, agreeably to my expe-
rience in the Florida fevers of 1839, 1840, and 1841, having much less of the congestive charac-
ter. Tongue of all appearances — clean, yellow, white, moist, or dry. In some of the most
serious cases the tongue had red edges, becoming dark-brown and dry in the progress of the
disease. Hemorrhage was common; generally uterine in the female, often causing abortion in
pregnancy ; in the male, epistaxis. As the tendency of the epidemic was to recovery^ these
varieties of hemorrhage mostly came on early in the disease, were often critical, or were the
precursors of convalescence.
Treatment. — Regarding the disease as a fever with tendency to congestion, the method of
treatment was similar to that adopted in the Florida fevers in 1839, '40, and '41. The follow-
ing is from my report for September, 1850, to the Surgeon General:
" The cases of fever which came under my own observation, both in garrison and beyond it,
very much resembled those at Fort King, Florida, in 1841. This fever exhibited considerable
tendency to congestion, like the Florida fevers. One of the worst cases of congestive fever I
have ever seen, originated on this island, in the person of a married female, of good habits and
character, who had not been from the island for more than six weeks previous to the attack.
"Sulphate of quinine was the main remedy. It was given with calomel as a cathartic early
in the disease, generally followed by ol: ricini. In a few cases, when there was vigor of the
circulation, without gastric irritation, quinine was given with tart: antim: et potassaj, until
the pulse was reduced. A combination of sulph: quin: and infus: capsicum was an invaluable
remedy. These two articles were often given at the very commencement, and almost always in
the progress of all cases. There was a tendency to congestion, often from the first, almost
always in the progress; hence, the value of this combination. In a case (a company laundress)
of relapse, attended with rapid and feeble pulse, great thirst, pungent heat of skin, &c.,
quinine and capsicum were freely used, and, in the course of eighteen hours, the patient was
considered out of danger. Unfortunately, in about twenty-four hours from the second attack of
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
217
fever, abortion of a three months' foetus (with considerable hemorrhage) occurred, reducing the
patient to an extreme condition. Tlie combination of quinine and capsicum was steadily con-
tinued, in addition to cether. sulph:, brandy, &c., until the urgent symptoms passed off; and
tlie patient recovered."
The case of congestive fever alluded to terminated fatally, with all the symptoms of apoplexy,
stertorous breathing, &c. A few additional remarks, principally in relation to the severe cases,
will close the treatment. Venesection was scarcely thought of. Free cupping, often dry, to
the cervical spine, lumbar region, and epigastrium, was general. Sinapisms were in universal
use; and blisters were often employed in the severe cases, oftenest to the epigastrium, and fre-
(^ueutly over the cervical spine. In all cases, from the beginning, quinine was the sheet-anchor,
nearly always combined with the infusion of capsicum. In a few grave cases, with brown and
dry tongue, &c., calomel in broken doses was combined with quinine, with excellent effect.
Ptyalism was avoided, occurring only once, slightly, in a severe case with dry tongue, sordes,
&c. So soon as slight tenderness of the teeth and gums came on, improvement was rapid. The
various preparations of opium were in general use at night — morph: sulph: most frequently.
Wine, brandy, and malt liquors, according to the taste of the patient, were pretty freely used.
Epidemic of 1850 — Medical Statistics of Fort Moultrie.
Number present
Number of fever
cases.
Deaths.
Number exempt
from fever.
38
43
10
Women, children, and servants 49
6
Total - i 97
81
IG
We have 38 fever patients among 48 ofiicers and men, or 79.16 per cent. =791 per 1,000.
Women, children, and servants, 49 present, and 43 cases of fever, or 87.75 i)er cent. = 877 sick
per 1,000. In a total of 97 persons, there were 81 sick with fever, or 83.50 per cent. = 835 per
1,000; and the number of jjersons who escaped fever Avas only 16, or 16.50 per cent, of the
■whole = 165 per 1,000. All this in less than two months; the first being taken sick August
20th, the second August 23d, and the last October 14th. Indeed, deducting two cases on the
5th and 14th of October, we find that the whole of this sweeping epidemic took place from the
20th of August to the 30th September, or in the course of forty-two days.
Case 1. Mrs. S , residing in Middle street, near the steamboat-landing or ferry-wharf,
was taken with congestive fever, but I did not see her until a day or two had elapsed, or on the
12th of August. Died on the 14th. This is the case alluded to in my report to the Surgeon
General. She had not been in town for six weeks, as she told me on my first visit, and never
staid in Charleston over night.
Case 2. The infant of Mrs. S , above mentioned, seven months old, was taken with ma-
lignant cholera infantum on the 18th of August, and died on the 27th. Had not been in the
city of Charleston, or from the island, during the summer. The late Doctor Eamsay saw both
of these cases with me, and we had several conversations in relation to their origin ; both of us
being satisfied that they originated on Sullivan's Island.
Cose 3. A child of Corporal Dounan, company I, 2d artillery, eight months old, was taken with
cholera infantum in the month of June, and on the 10th of July was considered moribund.
Tlie condition of the child at this date was as follows: Emaciation extreme; pulse small and
very frequent ; stomach had become quiet, and the bowels much more so than previously ; skin
clammy ; apparently no use of the limbs ; thumbs drawn down into the palms of the hands ;
slejit with one eye partly open, like a very sick child, but the other eye was wide open during
S. 96 28
218 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
sleep; ulceration of both cornea — in iact, tlie patient was given up. Eegardingthe state of the
patient as hydrencephaloitl, and that the smallest depletion must i)rove fatal, the general
treatment was continued: small and frequently repeated doses of aqua ammonia, sulph: quin:,
brandy, wine-whey, &c., and minute doses of tinct: opii, tinct: ferri, were used after small doses
of acet: plunibi were withdrawn. Tiie child lingered until cold weather came, and finally re-
covered. Had not left the island during the summer.
Case 4. Elizabeth Dounan, mother of the above, was taken with the prevailing epidemic in
September. This case, of relapse and abortion, has been already sufficiently alluded to in my
report to the Surgeon General. There was no arthritic disease in this case, neither was there
any eruption, except prickly heat. Had not been in Charleston for weeks.
Case 5. A child of Private Bronsman, company I, 2d artillery, thirteen months old, was taken
with cholera infantum in the month of July, and in August was given up as lost. As cold
weather came on, the child gradually recovered, but was troubled with diarrhoea during the
whole of the subsequent winter. Did not leave the island during the summer. This child
and Corporal Dounan's would have been sent to Aiken, or to Buncombe, or to the White
Mountains, had not the means been wanting.
Cases 6, Y, 8. In a small house near the ferry-wliarf, three persons resided — a man, his wife,
and another woman. The wife was taken with the epidemic fever on the 23d of August, the
other female on the 24th, and the man on the 2oth. All had the fever severely ; all complained
of intense pains in the frontal and orbitar regions, and all had hemorrhage. The two females
had profuse uterine hemorrhage, and the man had epistaxis. No boils, or eruptions, except
prickly heat. No arthritic disease. All had severe pains in the lumbar region and limbs.
Case 9. Judy, a female black servant of my own, about 55 years of age, had the fever severely
in the very last part of August. Had intense pains in the frontal region and orbits, severe
pains in the lumbar region, and epistaxis. Had this woman been only 25 or 30 years of age,
there would probably have been menorrhagia ; but the critical time of life having passed, epistaxis
occurred. She did not leave the island during the summer, and never left the house (between
the fort and hotel) and yard except on Sunday afternoon. Kecovered.
Case 10. My other servant, a dark-colored boy, IT or 18 years of age, had the lever still
more severely in the early part of September. He had intense pain in the frontal and orbitar
regions, suffusion of the eyes, and i)rofuse hemorrhage from the nostrils. He was severely sick
for several days. Had not been in town for weeks. Recovered.
Case 11. Mr. G , residing in Middle street, about half-way between the fort and ferry-
wharf, was taken with this fever on the 4th of September. Had visited Charleston daily, but
never staid over night. Had intense pain in the frontal region and orbits, and back and limbs ;
and the disease speedily assumed the congestive character. At one time he was considered in a
very dangerous condition. Recovered.
Case 12. David Dounan, corporal of company I, 2d artillery, was admitted into hospital
with the prevailing fever on the 6th of September : when first taken, had severe pain in the
frontal region, back and limbs, and tenderness of the epigastrium; in the progress of the case,
the tongue had red edges, and the surface became black and dry ; sordes, heat of skin, pungent
to the touch. As the disease advanced, restlessness at night, and muttering delirium; no
delirium during the day. Calomel and quinine were regularly given to this patient ; sinapisms,
cups, and afterwards blisters, to the mastoids, cervix, and epigastrium; camph: and s: raorph:
at night. So soon as the teeth became slightly tender, improvement was rapiil. Recovered.
This was a very sick man, and for a few days the result was doubtful. Three or four similar
cases occurred among the men in hospital.
Case 13. Ann C , of Charleston, residing temporarily on Sullivan's Island, Irish, about
25 years of age, married, dissipated, was taken with the fever in August: had severe pain of
the forehead and eyes, back and limbs; uterine hemorrhage came on, and she finally had a
miscarriage. Recovered.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DITISION. 219
Case 14. — Ann Boyle, Irish, wife of a soldier, about 35 or 40 years of age, had the fever in
August: had intense pain in the frontal region, back and lini])s, and menorrhagia. Recovered.
Case 15. — Mary Boyle, daughter of the above, 10 or 11 years of age, had the fever in August:
severe pain in the frontal region, and epistaxis. Recovered.
Cases 16, 17, 18. — Isabella, colored, was taken with the epidemic fever on the 20th of August:
severe pain of the frontal region and orbits, eyes tender to a slight touch, and suffused. She
was very ill for three or four days. Her son, about three years of age, had the fever in the first
part of September, (taken September 4): eyes suffused; epistaxis. She lost a child with cholera
infantum in the last part of July, which cliild had not been from the island for weeks.
Cases 19, 20, 21, 22. — Margaret Masterson, Irish, widow, about 40 years of age, had the fever
severely in the last part of August: intense pain in the supra-orbitar region, suffusion of the
eyes, menorrhagia. Had, during convalescence, an enormous abscess on one arm. Her three
children had the fever at the same time ; and altogether it was a helpless family. One of these
children had epistaxis, and another was troubled with boils, both before and after the fever.
These brief notices of cases, made for the purpose of showing the nature and origin of the
fever, are sufficient. Whole families were sick with the epidemic disease at the same time, and
it was not uncommon to have difficulty in finding well persons enough to assist the sick ! In-
deed, so universal was this fever among the women and children attached to the garrison, that
they received their nourishment — tea, arrow-root, chicken-broth, beef-tea, &c. — for a time, en-
tirely from the hospital. Happily, the fever was not of long duration, nor was it fatal, but
the suffering was great.
What was this fever? Dr. Dickson, and many of the Charleston physicians, think it was the
true dengue, as also several of the Augusta, Savannah, and other southern physicians. Then,
what is dengue? My limits forbid more than a reference to the descriptions and opinions of
Surgeon General Lawson, at Pensacola, in 1828 ; of Dr. Dickson, about the same period of
time ; the compilation of Dr. Forry, &c., in my report to Dr. Fenner, (Southern Medical Re-
ports for 1850, pp. 375 — 379.) From all tlio authorities, we are warranted in saying that
dengue, throwing adventitious symptoms aside, is a febrile arthritic disease, combined with
exanthema.
1. The arthritic affection. — This was not noticed. During the whole simimer, not a single
case occurred to me with this arthritic affection. Dr. Lawson says that "the fever usually ran
very high, and continued, without a remission, from twenty to thirty-six hours ; after which it
subsided, leaving the patient in a state of extreme debility, and laboring under an acute rheu-
matic affection of the muscular system generally." Dr. Dickson says: "Of all the symptoms
of dengue, the affection of the joints was the most tenacious and troublesome, adhering for
weeks to some patients, and constituting a sort of permanent lameness, or loss of mobility."
Dr. Dumaresq, of New Orleans, observes: "This was a singular termination of the disease,
leaving suflTerers from the fever hardly able to move about ; and, indeed, the appearance of per-
sons in the street must have been truly pitiable to a healthy stranger ; here, one seen dragging
his legs after him, supported on crutches — and there, another, witli limping gait and various
contortions of countenance, bespeaking that his tardy progress was made at the expense of his
bodily feeling." Dr. Dunglison says that "it seems, in all, to have been a singular variety of
rlieumatic fever." Not a single instance of the disease termed dengue, as above described,
came under my notice during the season.
2. The entption. — It has been already mentioned that cutaneous complaints were universal
in the months of June and July, long before the epidemic fever commenced — as lichen, in its
different varieties, boils, and phlegmonous and carbuncular abscesses. One person, covered
with prickly heat, had more than twenty small boils from one elbow to the wrist, answering the
description of the phlegmonoid eruption of the denguists ; but the person in question did not
have a single symptom of the epidemic fever, although he had a large and troublesome abscess
on one of the nates, in the month of September; but from fever he was entirely free. Cases
220
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
occurred in children, long before the epidemic broke oiit^ in whom boils were almost universal,
on the chest, neck, and scalp ; there being at the same time nearly a perfect sheet of ])rickly
heat over the body. These eruptions, boils, abscesses, &c., were extremely common before the
epidemic, and were regarded as the effect of intense summer heat — as estival. The entire ab-
sence of arthritic disease, and of an eruption coinciding with the fever, led me to conclude, both
during the epidemic and afterwards, that the disease was not dengue.
The epidemic disease was mostly southern bilious remittent fever ; sometimes continued fever,
with tendency to congestion. But after reflecting upon the prominent symptoms, when first
called to patients at the commencement of the fever, and especially after comparing them with
the epidemic of 1852, I do not hesitate to say that the disease made a near approach to yellow
fever. The symptoms, omitting those common to all southern fevers, were those of yellow
fever, as given by me in Fenner's Southern Medical Reports, pp. r>80 and 381^ viz: " Cciiha-
lalgia was general in the early stage, often severe in the frontal and orbital regions; occasion-
ally the eyes were suffused and a little injected — all going off as the disease advanced, or was
under treatment. Hemorrhage was common — uterine in the female, often causing abortion in
jjregnancy; in the male, epistaxis. As the tendency of the epidemic was to recovery, both of
these varieties of hemorrhage were often critical or the precursors of convalescence." Dr.
Fenner speaks of the hemorrhagic tendcnci/ in the fevers of New Orleans this year. Everything
considered, it is my opinion that only "one turn more of the screw" was wanting to develop
well-marked yellow fever.
1851. — This year was comparatively healthy. The number of companies in Charleston harbor
was seven — four at Fort Moultrie, two at Fort Sumpter, and one at Castle Pinckney — all under
my medical charge. The hospital of Fort Moultrie was the general hospital for the sick in the
whole harbor ; but I have carefully separated the cases strictly belonging to the garrison of
Fort Moultrie from all others, an abstract of which is given below.
Abstract of the quarterly reports of side at Fort Moultrie, S. C, for the year 1851.
Jao.
Feb.
Mar.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Total.
Deatlis.
Aggregate
1
198
196
187
183
177
201 210
198
186 210 22.^5
210
2,379
DISEASES.
1
1
3
18
15
3
33
25
1
250
Febris interiuittens quotidiana
1
1
1
A
1
2
5
4
1
6
1
2
4
1
2
3
3
1
2
U
6
1
2
2
1
1
7
1
2
2
6
7
2
1
-.-.-.i
1
1
1
18
All others __------ .....
19
14
7
8
18
46
46
24
16 1 17
17
4
Total -.
22
21
27
15
18
28
65
56
31
29
20
17
349
4
Average mean strength for the year : Officers, 12.58, enlisted men, 185.66: total, 198.25.
Deaths 4; one in March, from fracture of the cranium and meningitis; one in May, of
enteritis, chronic dysentery supervening; one in November, of phthisis pulmonalis; and one in
December, a deserter, who had country fever in his absence, was admitted for general debility,
and at last died of chronic dysentery. Number of cases during the year, 349. Mortality per
cent., 1.14.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
221
We come now to the eiiidemic fever of 1852.
Abstract of the quarterly reports of sick at Fort Moultrie. — Talcen sick during the year 1852.
Months
Jan.
Feb.
Mar.
April.
May. June.
July.
Aug.
Sent.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Total.
Deaths.
Aggregate
1
1
strength.
203
167
100
92
85
78
74
71
71
113
107
98
1 259
DISEASES.
Febris continxia
2
2
33
2
28
5
5
101
1
29
3
4
Febris intermittens tertiana
1
1
Febris remittens
24
3
1
1
2
12
in
Diarrha-a
1
1
6
....
I
2
Dysonteria acuta
1
5
1
5
All others
23
11
7
4
6
7
5
Total - . .
23
11
6
8
7
5
9
10
30
38
19
10
176
4
Average mean strength for the year : Officers, 8.58 ; enlisted men, 96.33 ; total 104 92.
CASES OF FEVER DURING THE EPIDEMIC.
Case 1. Private Joseph Dunn, company K, 2d artillery, was admitted on the 22d of August,
with hilious continued fever. This was not a severe case, and the patient soon recovered. He
liad not heen in town, or from Sullivan's Island, for several months; and there is no hesitation
in saying that his disease originated on the island. Hard drinker.
Case 2. Colonel M was taken with severe congestive tertian intermittent on the 29th
of August, having heen unwell three or four days previous. This case originated in fishing
excursions to the west end of Long Island, which is near the east end of Sullivan's Island; the
Colonel being exjjosed to the damp evening air and malaria on his return, during the passage
of his hoat from the former island, through the creek or passage between the main land and the
back beach of Sullivan's Island, to the fort-wharf. Colonel M stated to me that he had
not been subject to any form of intermittent fever for many years. This was a severe and obsti-
nate case; during every paroxysm there was congestion of the brain, which was so great in the
last one that his situation was considered dangerous. Recovered.
Case 3. Private George Hepp, company E, 2d artillery, was taken with bilious continued
fever on the 31st of August. This was a mild case. Hepj) was an old soldier, and had just
re-enlisted (on the 20th of August), previous to which he states that he resided on a farm four
or five miles from Charleston, where the fever was doubtless contracted. Attacked with remit-
tent fever on the 17th of September. Sober.
Case 4. Private John Eoberts, company K, 2d artillery, drunkard, was taken sick with mild
remittent on the 6th of September. Origin unknown.
Hitherto the fever was mild, scarcely worthy of attention ; nor would it have been noticed but
for what followed. The epidemic really broke out in a decided form on the 7th and 8th days
of September. From 7, A. M., of the 7th, to 2, p. m., of the 8th, four inches of rain fell. From
7, P. M., of the 4th, to 2, p, m., of the 8th, no less than 9.40 inches of rain fell, or 1.88 inch
per day; and this quantity added to 8.86 inches in June, 5.43 inches in July, and 4.15 inches
in August, makes the enormous quantity of 27.84 inches in three months and eight days.
More than an average quantity (4.17 inches) fell in the May previous.
We will first notice the cases in the soldiers' families residing on the parade, which extends
from Middle street (this street runs between the fort and parade) to the back beach ; next, the
cases which occurred in the fort; and lastly, cases entirely detached from the fort and parade.
222 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Case 5. Dominick Duffy, 1st sergeant of company K, 2(1 artillery, quarters on tlie east side
of the parade, was taken sick with fever ; registered remittent on the evening of the 7tli of
September. Sober; conduct unexceptionable. 01: ricini:, oz. j. Sth. Removed to liospital
early this morning; severe headache; skin hot and dry; pulse full ; tongue coated with yellow
fur; oil had operated; cup the cervical spine. Sul: quin: grs. x, cal: grs. v; m: at 9, A. m.
s: quin: grs. v, at 1 and 6, p. m. It is not necessary to pursue the treatment further. Returned
to duty on the 20th September. Sergeant Duffy, his wife, and Margaret Cooney, who lived
with them, went to Charleston last on the 24th day of August, in the 2 o'clock, v. m., boat,
and returned in the 5 o'clock boat ; thus being in town but little more than two hours. Having
heard that yellow fever was in town, they passed directly through Market street to King streei;
and when their purchases were made all three returned through Market street to the steamboat.
King and Market streets were the only streets entered. Never remained in Charleston over
night. None of them went to town after the 24th of August; Ann Duffy, the wife, was taken
with yellow fever on the 16th of October; Margaret Cooney remained in perfect health.
Case 6. Mary Stolpcr, wife of Sergeant Stolper, company E, 2d artillery, quarters on the east
side of the parade, was ill on the evening of the Tth of September, and early on the morning of
the Sth I saw her. The disease was registered remittent fever, but there was intense pain in
the frontal and orbitar regions, and of the back and limbs; tenderness of the eyes on sliglit
pressure of the globes, and suffusion. This fever was easily broken up by cal: and ol: ricini,
and the free use of quinine ; but the intense supra-orbital pain and suffusion of the eyes induced
me to think, and to express the oi^inion, that yellow fever might occur. The case served a
good purpose — it put us on our guard. This patient had not been in Charleston since the 17th
of August, 21 days at least before the attack, when she visited her brother, who was sick with
"some kind of fever," as she expressed it. Never slept in town.
We now come to tlie Brassard family, quarters on the west side of the parade. Charles
Brassard, one year old, was attacked late on tlie Sth of September, with ence})lialitis, and died
on the 6th, eighteen liours after the first visit. Had not been in Charleston.
Case Y. Eleanor Brassard, 7 years of age, was taken with severe fever, registered remittent,
in the livery of yellow fever, on the 7th of Seiitember. Had not been from Sullivan's Island in
twelve months. Had severe pain in the frontal region and orbits, eyes suffused, tenderness of
the globes, and also intense pain in tlie lumbar region and limbs. Had epistaxis on the Sth.
Took calomel and quinine on the first day, with ol: ricini, and the quinine was continued, more
or less, until convalescence was established. This case also served to point out that yellow fever
was approaching. The patient was scarcely able to sit up, when her mother, Mary Ann Bras-
sard, was taken sick, on the 15tli of September, with yellow fever.
Case S. Mary Ann Brassard, mother of the above, was attacked with severe yellow fever on
the 15th of September. She had intense pain in the frontal region and orbits, tenderness of
the eyeballs on slight pressure, suffusion of the eyes, and the vessels of the conjunctiva3 were
injected. She had also severe pain in the back and limbs, and pain in the epigastric region.
The youngest child (Charles Brassard) was weaned in June, on account of the milk disagreeing,
and the catamenia had ajipeared three times since, with great regularity "to the very day."
Had profuse epistaxis on the night of the 16th. On the morning of the 17th, two weeks after
the regular catamenial ])eriod, profuse uterine hemorrhage came on, continuing to the 23d,
which was much worse at tlie commencement, on the 17th, 18th, and 19th, than at any other
time. Yellow skin on the ISth. This case was treated by calomel, quinine, and ol: ricini, with
sinapisms and cups to the mastoids, cervical spine, and epigastrium, on the first day, and after-
wards blisters to the cervix and epigastrium. Afterwards, the calomel in smaller doses was con-
tinued with tlie quinine, and morphia at night. Gums touched on the IStli. Was finally put
on ammonia and camphor mixture, wine, chicken-tea, beef-tea, &c. Recovered. This patient
had not been from Sullivan's Island since the loth of August, exactly one month before the
attack of fever. Never had staid in town over niglit; and she stated to me, in her sickness, that
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHEEN DIVISION. 223
she had not seen a person sick with fever during the whole summer, except in her own family —
the daughter above mentioned, Eleanor Brassard.
Case 'J. Private Francis Brassard, company E, 2d artillery, hard drinker, husband and father
of the above, was taken with severe fever, registered remittent, of a yellow fever character, on
the afternoon of the 24th of (September. He had intense supra-orbital pain, suffusion of the
eyes, and slightly injected conjunctivte. Pain of back and limbs severe. Calomel grs. x, and in
tiiree hours ol: ricini, oz. j ; quinine grs. x at tattoo, and same in the night. This case was
trusted almost entirely to quinine. Duty on the 17th October. He was in Charleston last, for
only a .short time (an hour or two only) on the 6th of September, the day of the infant's deatli,
or 18 days before tlie attack of fever. Never slept in town. No member of this family saw a
case of fever except their own sick.
Case 10. Private John Hazeltiiie, company K, 2d artillery, was hospital attendant during
the whole summer, the hospital being on the west side of the parade. Moderate drinker. Was
attacked with remittent fever on the 9th of September; duty on the 18tli. He had not been in
Cluirleston since the montli of June.
Case 11. Sergeant AVilliam McNair, company K, 2d artillery, quarters on the west side of
the parade, was taken on the sick report and admitted into hospital on the morning of the 11th
of September, stating to me that he had been unwell since the 9th. There was no doubt of the
nature of this case from the commencement. Was a hard drinker, and he stated that he had
drank more than usual for a few days on account of the bad weather. On the 12th he was very
ill ; and in the afternoon of tliat day, his condition was considered hazardous. Very yellow ;
stomach very irritable, which was relieved by sinapisms and blisters to the epigastrium, and a
mixture of creosote. Quinine continued during the day and night, as well as yesterday. Cal:
10 grs., morph: \ gr., at night. As he became convalescent, symptoms of nervous irritation
began to show themselves in a decided manner (on the ICth), which ended in mania-a-potu.
He finally recovered; duty on the 20th of October. That tliis was a case of yellow fever, is
certain ; for the intense pain of the frontal region and orbits, tenderness of the eyeballs, suffu-
sion, and injected conjunctivae on the first day (llth), added to the yellowness and increased
injection of the vessels of the conjunctivie on the 12th, leave no room for doubt. Indeed, he
had every sign of yellow fever except black vomit, and there was so much retching and vomit-
ing on the 12th, that tliis was momentarily expected. This was the first case of undoubted
yellow fever on Sullivan's island, the case of Mary Ann Brassard being the second. The patient
was last in Charleston on the first of July, more than two months previous to the attack, and
he had not left Sullivan's Island since that date ; there is, therefore, no doubt of his fever origin-
ating on the island.
Case 12. Margaret McNair, wife of the sergeant above named, was taken witli yellow fever
on the 30th of September, Severe pains of the frontal and orbitar regions, eyeballs very sore
and tender to the touch, suffusion, vessels of tlie conjunctiva? injected, severe jiain of the back
and limbs, stomacli quiet, tliough there is some uneasiness in the ejjigastric region. Has had
tiiree children, and is now six months enciente. Sinapisms to the cervix and epigastrium ; cujis
to the mastoids and cervical spine; cal: quin: aa. 10 grs.; ol: ricini, oz. j, in two hours; and 10
grs. quin: in 4 hours from the first dose. IMorpli. ^ gr. at night, and the quinine was continued
ill smaller doses. No more calomel was given than the first dose, as fears were entertained that
a tendency to miscarriage might be jiroduced by it ; but the quinine was given pretty liberally
until the morning of tlie 3d of October, or nearly three full days from the attack. Oct. 3. Last
night, at 9 and 3 o'clock, took 10 grs. quinine and \- gr. morphine. 7 A. m. Patient free of fever;
pulse soft and nearly natural ; tongue moist; no pain of the head ; eyes of nearly natural ai)pcar-
ance; very yellow. Directed mild treatment, an enema, small doses of quinine, iced mucilage,
a little beef-tea, &c. But about 9 o'clock a. m., unmistakeable labor pains began, slight but
frequent convulsions came on, the patient became insensible, the head and forehead became hot,
and the skin dry; the ensemble rendering an unfavorable termination of the case highly probable.
224 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
In this state but little was attempted; iced mucilage, which slie was able to swallow, was given;
sinapisms were applied behind the ears and over the spine, and afterwards blisters ; and cloths
wetted in iced water were constantly applied to the forehead and whole head. At 2 i". m.,
the OS uteri was fully dilated and the membranes ruptured, when the presentation was found
to be of the arm and shoulder; but it was determined to attempt nothing at this stage, on
account of the exhausted condition of the patient, and also because she had had children ; the
l)ains were frecpient and strong, the jielvis ample, tlie soit parts dilated and easily dilatable,
and the child was not of full size. For these reasons the case was^ for the present, committed
to nature. The lelt shoulder presented, the right cephalo-iliac position of M. Chailly, head to
the right, back in front. In a short time the body of the child was forced down by the strong
pains, so that the hand nearly protruded from the vulva, wlien it was determined to render
manual assistance; and, in the event of this iiroving unsuccessful, to resort to instruments
without delay, by reason of the exhaustion of the patient. In the absence of a pain, the head
was carried up to the right of the pelvis, as far as possible, bringing down the lower extremi-
ties; then, assisting a strong pain with the fore and middle fingers, the body, as far as the
shoulders, and the lower extremities, were delivered; and by the next pain, a very strong one,
the head and placenta were both delivered together. Fortunately, there was no hemorrhage.
As the OS uteri became fully dilated, the convulsions ceased, the patient gradually recovered
from the insensibility, and, by the time that delivery was effected (about 4 p. m.), she was quite
sensible, but greatly exhausted, the pulse being very feeble. Two or three pretty large doses
of brandy and water were given ; but this beginning to disagree with the stomach, port wine
with water was substituted, and a few drops of ether sulph: were frequently given. 10 i\ m.
More comfortable than could have been anticipated ; pulse has risen; stomach quiet. Continue
the wine and water through the night, in such quantity and strength as to suit the patient ;
iced mucilage; a little chicken-tea; ^ gr. morph. October 4. Passed a comfortable night; jmlse
firm; all the blisters drawn and dressed; omit wine; take small doses of quinine; beef-tea.
October 5. Eeaction; pulse firm and frequent; hot skin; pain in frontal region and eyes re-
turned; irritability of the stomach, which was not excessive. Oath: eneina ; blister to epigas-
trium; 10 grs. quinine, at 8 and 12; and 5 grs. quin: at 4 i>. m.; iced mucilage; chicken-tea, in
small quantities, every two hours. Night. Better; pain of the frontal region and eyes abated,
nearly gone, and in its place buzzing in the ears (quininiznfion) substituted ; pulse soft ; stomach
quiet; skin soft and cool; and, in every respect, the patient was better. From this time the
patient was put on small doses of quinine, mist: ammon: and camph:; beef and chicken tea;
diet gradually improved. Recovered. This patient had not been from Sullivan's Island for
more than two months.
We have now concluded the month of September, and have noticed almost every case of fever
to the end of that month. We have come to a natural resting-place, and, at this point, let us
look back on the road which has been travelled, as our future course will lead us into a different
region. Let it be recollected that the night of September iJOth is completed ; that our garrison
consisted of companies E and K, 2d artillery; that few changes had taken place during the
quarter which is now ended; that no communication, or almost none, had taken place between
the two posts of Fort Moultrie and Castle Pinckney — certainly no communication whatever be-
tween the sick and well of the two posts could take place ; that none of our really sick patients
had been exposed at Castle Pinckney, or in Charleston ; and that the movements of all persons
who were severely sick could be traced for days and weeks previous to the attack of fever. We
will throw out every doubtful case, and we have remaining twenty-seven cases of fever — twenty-
four of continued and remittent, and three of yellow fever — which originated on Sullivan's
Island. A strict contagionist may contend that Margaret McNair contracted yellow fever of
her husband, though it seems singular that her little daughter, five years of age, did not take
the disease, for she was exposed during her mother's illness ; but neither did this nor any other
case of yellow fever, during the whole epidemic, exhibit the slightest property of contagion.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN *DWISION. 225
We will throw this case out, however, and we then have two undoubted cases of yellow fever,
and twenty-four cases of other fever — twenty-six cases in all — without the suspicion of importa-
tion or contagion. To render the matter still more certain, we will reduce the list to those
cases wiiich are absolutely certain ; and we have two cases of yellow fever — Sergeant McNair and
Mary Ann Brassard ; and nineteen cases of other fever — Captain Elzey, Orderly Sergeant
Williams, Sergeant Duffy, Hazeltine, Eendiger, Emerson, Pilgrim Doherty, Brassard, Murri-
can, Connor, Eleanor Brassard, Many Stolper, Deborah Doherty, Sarah McClure, and four in
Captain Elzey's family — twenty-one cases in all, during the month of September, -which origin-
ated on Sullivan's Island, under such circumstances as to leave no manner of doubt in relation
to the origin. Not one of them had been exposed to any cause of fever, except on Sullivan's
Island.
It has been said that the garrison of Castle Pinckney introduced the contagion of yellow fever
into Fort Moultrie. We will examine the facts. The garrison of Castle Pinckney was not
withdrawn to Fort Moultrie until the first day of October, and, up to this date, there was little
communication between the two posts ; for a man on pass had no inducement whatever to visit
the dull and dreary post of Castle Pinckney. In truth, there had been little sickness at Castle
Pinckney wh3n that post was abandoned ; for Major R.'s death did not take place until the 28th
of September, after an illness of three or four days only, of yellow fever contracted in Charles-
ton ; and Captain A. was taken sick after the funeral of Major R. (which was on the 29th), and
left behind when the garrison withdrew to Fort Moultrie. The cases of these two officers were
the only two cases of yellow fever up to the 1st of October ; whereas at Fort Moultrie there were
two cases of yellow fever, and abundance of southern bilious fever, before Major Pi. was attacked,
and before there was a single case at Castle Pinckney ; and before the garrison of that post
came over, there had been at Fort Moultrie three undoubted cases of yellow fever, and thirty-nine
cases of southern bilious fever — forty-two cases, in all, in the month of September — tenfold more
sickness than at Castle Pinckney. Not a single sick person, man, woman, or child, came from
Castle Pinckney on the 1st of October, and only one sick person (Captain Allen) was left be-
hind. Indeed, we have no evidence that a single case of yellow fever had originated at Castle
Pinckney ; for, to that date, it was decidedly more healthy than Fort Moultrie ; and the yellow
fever at the latter post was no more conveyed from Castle Pinckney than from the black hole
of Calcutta.
It has been said that the yellow fever was brought from Charleston. Nothing can be further
from the truth. Only a certain class of men apply freiiuently for a pass to town ; the married,
sober, and steady men rarely ask for passes ; nor do the drunkards get them, or apply for them,
as often as would be expected. Further, all classes were aware of the great sickness in town,
and night passes were refused. So early as July 24th, the following communication was made
to the officer in command.
"The heat of the weather, the filthy condition of the streets of Charleston, and the reports in
relation to present disease there, render it advisable, in my opinion, for us all to be on the safe
side of the question ; and I would, therefore, request the colonel commanding to consider the
expediency of refusing permission to all persons composing the garrison of this post to pass a
single night in Charleston."
Not one of the Fort Moultrie cases in September had been to Charleston (see cases 8, 11, 12,)
for weeks, and not one of them saw a case of yellow fever, except in their own flimilies. In all
September there had been four cases of yellow fever on Sullivan's Island, wholly unconnected
with the fort: Mr. Kennedy, who died at the Moultrie House on the 23d of September, after an
illness of five days ; the book-keeper of the Moultrie House, who was at the crisis of the disease
on the day of Kennedy's death; Mr. Ferguson, who died at the steamboat landing, near the
date of Kennedy's death ; and Mrs. C. (case 47.) For the particulars of the patients at the
Moultrie House, I am indebted to Captain Payne, the proprietor. These four patients could not
S. 96 29
226 REP9RT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
possibly have introduced the yellow iever into the garrison of Fort Moultrie, for tlie best of all
reasons — we had it he/ore; for two of the cases (8, 11) were the first cases on the island, and the
third case (No 12) could not possibly have seen any person sick with this disease, except at Fort
Moultrie. The conclusion is irresistible, that yellow fever was not introduced from Castle
Pinckney, neither from Charleston, but that it originated on Sullivan's Island.
October 1st. The garrison of Castle Pinckney, company M, 2d artillery, was removed to
Fort Moultrie on account of the alleged insalubrity of the former post; and from this date our
garrison consisted of companies E, K, M, all of the 2d artillery. It is a curious fact in the
history of the soldier, that no movement of troops can be made without a "big drtmk," in spite
of the officers; and never was there a custom more honored in "the observance" than by com-
pany M ; for during the first four or five days after the removal, there was scarcely a sober man
in the company; and the disease was exceedingly contagious — as much so as Sir William Pym
represents yellow fever to be; for almost every man in companies E and K had an attack, con-
tracted of company M. This was the only contagious disease introduced from Castle Pinckney
during the year.
October 2. One case of remittent fever from company E. October 4. Two cases of yellow
fever from company M. October 5. One case of remittent fever from company E; one case of
yellow fever from company M. October 7. One case of yellow fever from company K. Octo-
ber 8. One case of yellow fever from company K. October 9. One case of yellow fever from
company K, and one from company M. October 10. One case of yellow fever from company
M. October 11. One case of yellow fever from company E, two from company K, and one from
company M. October 12. One case of yellow fever and one of remittent from company M.
October 13. One case of yellow fever from company M. October 14. One case of yellow fever
from company K, two from company M. October 16. One case of yellow fever from company
M. October 17. One case from company E, one from company M— both yellow fever. October
19. One case of yellow fever from company K, two from company M. October 20. One case
yellow fever from company M. October 23. One case yellow fever from company M. October
25. One case yellow fever from company K. October 26. One case yellow fever from company
K. October 28. One case yellow fever from company K. October 31. One case from ordnance
corps — a prisoner under sentence of general court-martial — yellow fever. November 4. Two
cases of yellow fever from company M. November 10. One case of yellow fever from company
K. November 16. One case in the field and staff, remittent — the end of the epidemic ; there
having been severe frost on the morning of the 15th.
Some of the most interesting cases after the loth of October will now be given.
Case 58. Charles Piatt, 1st sergeant of company M — sober as regards spirituous liquor, but
an opium taker — was admitted into the hospital on the morning of the 5th of October, at 8
o'clock, A. M.; had not reported before, though he had been ill. He was in the second stage
of yellow fever — very yellow; eyes yellow and injected; skin clammy; pulse slow and feeble,
&c. Black vomit came on at 12, m., on the 6th, and he died early on the morning of the 8th.
After announcing his death, of yellow fever, to the commanding officer, the communication
goes on as follows :
"Sergeant Piatt, it is said, had been ill two or three days before reporting to the surgeon of
the post, but there is certainly no doubt of his having been hard sick more than 24 hours before
reporting. In yellow fever^ more than in any other disease, three, four, five, or six hours, at
the outset, are of immense consequence; and no man with yellow fever can expect to recover
after 24 hours' delay. The undersigned, therefore, respectfully requests all company officers
to endeavor, by every means in their power, to impress this important fact on the mind of every
person connected with the command. Let every person pertaining to garrison — man, woman,
and child — be reported without delay to the surgeon as soon as taken ill."
This communication was published to the command at evening paraile with excellent effect.
Case 59. Private Frederick Schmidt, company M, was taken sick with yellow fever on the
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 227
1 0th of October. He was a drunkard, and admitted a prisoner from the gnard-hoiise at 6, p. M,
This case was managed in the usual manner, hy sinapisms, cups, calomel, quinine, &c.,
and the mouth became sore on the 14th; and from tliis date convalescence seemed to be estab-
lished, until the 20th; tlie i)atieut taking little medicine except a bitter infusion, the diet being
nourishing, as the appetite was rather strong. Indeed, the man was considered out of all
danger. On the morning of the 2Gth there were strong yellow fever signs; black vomit finally
commenced on the 25th; and he lingered, in an oiiensive condition, and more dead than alive,
until the 2d of November, when he died. There was mystery in this relapse, which at first
could not be understood : but the facts came out at last. It is the custom among soldiers to
"cheat the doctor," if possible; and the patient had managed, by means of his confreres, to
smuggle in some liquor and a free diet; thus "cheating the doctor," and launching himself into
eternity.
Case 60. Private Thomas Patterson, company K, drunkard, was taken with yellow fever on
the 11th of October. 8, a. m., calomel, 10 grs., opium \ gr.; 15 grs. quinine at 8, 12, and 4;
ol: ricini A oz. at 12. Quinine in smaller doses at night, and on the l'2th, 13th, and 14th.
Appeared to be better on the 12th ; decidedly better on the 13th : and was considered con-
valescent on the 14th, and decidedly so on the 15th. Took no medicine on the 15th and 16th,
except some bitter infusion, and his diet consisted of beef-tea in the day and arrow-root at
niglit. Took no medicine on the 17th and 18th, and the diet was improved.
IStli — night. On making an evening visit to the liospital, found the patient had relapsed, or
secondary fever had come on ; there was intense pain in the frontal and orbitar regions ; eyes
suffused, painful, tender, and the vessels injected, &c. Sinapisms and mustard pediluvium ;
quinine 10 grs., cal: 3 grs., at 9, 1, and 5 to-morrow morning. 19th. Quinine 5 grs., cal:
1 gr., at 9, 12, 3, 6 ; ol: ricini oz. j. Night. Quinine 5 grs., cal: 1 gr., at 9, 1, 5, and \ gr.
morphia at 9. 20tli Symptoms continue much as at first ; very yellow. Qiiin: 10 grs., cal:
1 gr., at 9, 1, 6. Night. Quin: 5 grs., at 9, 1, 5 ; cal: 3 grs., morphia \ gr., at 9. 21st. ol:
ricini | oz., quin: 5 grs., at 9, 12, 3, 6. Night. Quinine 10 grs., cal: 2 grs., at 9, 1, 5. 22d.
Quinine 10 grs., cal: 1 gr., at 9, 1, 5. Night. Quin: et cal: da 5 grs., at 9 ; 10 grs. quin: at
1, 5. 23d. Quinine 5 grs., at 9, 12, 3, 6, and 5 grs. cal: at 6. Night. Quinine 5 grs., cal: 2
grs., at 9, 12, 3, 6 ; wine and water, or ale. 24th. Quinine 5 grs., cal: 2 grs., at 9, 12, 3, 6 ;
brandy or wine, beef-tea. Night. Quinine 3 grs., at 9, 1, 5, and wine or brandy, as he prefers.
25th. Hitherto no eflect of the mercurial on the gums could be perceived, but this morning
they were tender, and there was fetor of the breath. The quinine as yesterday, wine, chicken-
tea. Night. Quinine 5 grs., at 9, 1, 5 ; 2 grs. cal: at 9, to insure the efiect : brandy or wine.
2Gth. Tlie patient was so ill that it was determined to continue the mercurial to the full extent
of ptyalism. Quinine 5 grs., cal: 1 gr., at 9, 12, 3, 6 ; j gr. opium at 9 ; brandy or wine, and
a little beef-tea. Night. Wine; quin: 5 grs., cal: 1 gr., at 9, 1, 5, and ^ gr. opium at 9.
27th. Mouth quite sore, and mercurials were suspended from this date. Gargle, wine and
brandy, beef-tea, and 3 grs. quinine every third hour. Wi^^h an occasional variation, this
jdan was continued until the jiatient became thoroughly convalescent. Duty on the 27th of
November.
Cases 64, 65. Private Charles Thappler, company K, sober ami well-behaved in every
respect, was taken with yellow fever on the 14th of October, and was treated principally with
quinine, with a small quantity of calomel at the commencement. He had the usiial symptoms
at the beginning of the disease, and, in the progress of the case, his face became quite yellow.
He went to quarters on the 1st day of November ; on the 7th, 8th, and 9th, he told me that he
was able to do duty; and lie had every appearance of being so, for he looked healthy, com-
plexion ruddy, and natural in apjiearance, ttc; and on the last day he was marked — (luty to-
morrcnr. On the morning of the 10th, he was brought to the hospital, and a])peared to be very
sick, having undoubted yellow fever symptoms — intense pain in the frontal and orbitar regions ;
eyes tender, suff"uscd, and the conjunctival vessels injected; face of a dusky red, itc. Cal:
228 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
5 grs.; qiiin: 10 p;rs. at ; i oz. ol: ricini at 11 ; 10 grs. ((uin: at 1, 5. Niglit. Cal: 1 gr.;
quin: 10 grs.; opium, ^ gr. at 9, 1, 5. 11th. Quite yellow; cal: 1 gr.; quiu: 10 gr.s.; o])ium
^ gr. at 9, 1, 5. Titli. Mouth sore. The patient was put on small doses of quin:, bramly ;
sometimes mist: ammo: et camph:, beef-tea, &c. Duty, December 17th.
It may be thought singular by those who contend that yellow fever attacks a person but once
in a life-time, and by those who consider an attack of the disease as a preservative against
future attacks, provided the person does not spend a winter at the north, to find that this
patient is registered as having had two attacks in about one month. Others may consider the
second attack a relapse; but this is not my oj)inion, for the patient was well. A more singular
instance tluin tliis occurred at Pascagoula in 1848. One of the hospital matrons, dissijiated, but
not generally so, (by dissipated, I mean that she would sometimes get drunk,) had severe yellow
fever, and, in its progress, every symptom occurred which may be looked for in the disease,
(including yellow skin, hemorrhage from the mouth and fauces, and uterine liemorriiage,)
except black vomit. She recovered, went on duty, and did her usual work for more than two
weeks; went out of camj) in all directions, got drunk, and, at the expiration of all this, she
was again attacked with yellow fever, had black vomit, and died. I did not think the last case
a whit more severe than the first, until black vomit made its appearance.
Case 71. Private Tliouias Boyd, company K, a great drunkard, was brought from the guard-
house (where he had been confined for his bad conduct, by sentence of a general court-martial,
since the 19th day of August) to the hospital, in charge of a sentinel, on the 26th of October,
about 10 o'clock, A. M., with severe yellow fever. He had intense pains in the frontal and
orbitar regions; the eyes were tender, suffused, and the vessels were highly injected; the face
was of a dusky brown (he was of dark complexion) ; and altogether the case was a most
unpromising one, insomuch that I remarked to the hospital steward, "Here is another of those
beautifid cases, which will have to be carried out;" as Fitzpatrick was already dead, Schmidt
moribund, and Johnson in a desperate condition — all drunkards. Mustard bath and sinapisms ;
cal: et quin: (7(7 10 grs., and rei)eat at 2, i>. M.; quin: 10 grs., cal: 1 gr,, at 6. Night. Medicine
had operated; quin: 10 grs., cal: 2 grs., opium ^ gr., at 9, 1, 5. 2Yth. Cal: 5 grs., quin:
10 grs., at 9, 12, 3. Sinapisms, cups, and a large blister to the epigastrium. Night, (^uin:
5 grs., cal: 2 grs., opium ^ gr., at 6, 9, 12, and 3, G, to-morrow morning. 28th. Very sick; skin
of an intensely dark yellow. 8 o'clock, a. m. Cal: 10 grs., oi)ium \ gr.; and quin: 10 grs., cal:
2 grs., opium ^ gr., at 10, 2, 4. The medicine at 8 and 10 o'clock was doubtless retained; but
the other two doses were probably thrown off, for the patient had vomited several times in the
afternoon. Before 4 o'clock, p. m., while I was standing by him, he threw up a quantity of
fluid, which appeared to be, in every respect, commencing black vomit; and the result of the
case was considered as settled. He threw up two or three times after this; the contents of the
stomach each time being of a darker hue, and more resembling real black vomit. I had no
reason in the world to doubt that the real vomito prieto had begun. He was directed to have
light drinks, and nothing more, and towards sunset the stomach became quiet. 9, P. m. Has
not vomited since sundown. Although the case was regarded as necessarily fatal, it was deter-
mined to try one more dose of medicine, and 10 grs. of cal: and \ gr. opium were administered.
Directions were given for him to take nothing whatever for three hours after, and then to take
a little wine and water, brandy and water, or such other drink as he might prefer; and 1
remarked to the steward at the time: "If he does keep the medicine down, it will be of no
more use than so much saw-dust." 29th. On going to the hospital this morning, my first
inquiry was about Boyd. The steward said he was better, and I replied that I did not believe
it. The steward said that he must certainly be better, for his stomach had been quiet all night,
and he had a sore moutli. I said "I don't believe it, but let's go and see;" and we found him
with a sore mouth — no uncertain one, but a severe ptyalism had begun; face swollen ; tongue
enlarged; teeth and gums very sore, and a decidedly mercurial fetor of the breath. From this
date small doses of quinine, brandy, eiK'mata, gargles^ chicken-broth, beef-tea, &c., were used;
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 229
but it was several days before we could be persuaded that the patient would be saved, as I had
never seen one recover with even commencing black vomit. Duty Kovember 27th.
Case 75. Miss A. F , in the sixteenth year of her age, was taken with yellow fever in
Charleston on the 18th day of October, and came to Sullivan's Island on the 19th; but I was
not called to see her until past 3 o'clock p. m., after she had been sick about thirty hours. She
had been in Charleston about five weeks, from Canada East; her friends thinking it best for
her to come south on account of a troublesome cough. Catamenia had never appeared. Having
been ill so long, the case presented a most unpromising appearance ; and so the friends were
informed. The patient took calomel, quinia, and ol: ricini on the first day, and afterwards
some calomel with the quinia, and the latter was given as fast as was considered judicious ; but
the case progressed in the most malignant manner to the 21st, when there was great irrita-
bility of the stomach ; and it is uncertain how much medicine was retained afterwards. Sina-
pisms, cups, and a large blister to the e})igastrium had been used. 22d. Every appearance of
the first stage of black vomit, which continued to increase, until I had no hesitation in pro-
nouncing that the fatal precursor had taken place. To take such drinks during the night as
are most agreeable, iced or without, and a little brandy in some shape, if possible. 23d —
early. It was reported to me that the patient had thrown up several times during the night,
and that about three o'clock the vomit appeared in the most decided manner. Since that time
the stomach had remained quiet. I could easily credit these reports, both from what I had seen
the day and night before, and from the present appearance of the patient, for she appeared to
be in extremis; pulse frequent and leeble ; skin with the peculiar yellow fever sensation to the
touch, and clammy; extremities cold; and the eyes, face, and neck intensely yellow. External
applications; ices, and iced mucilages; brandy in small quantities in some shape; and mist:
ammon: carb: 1 drm. every two hours. In truth, she was considered moribund. Hemorrhage
from the nose and mouth came on in the early part of the day, continuing at intervals during
the 24th and 2oth ; after the 25th there^vas but little hemorrhage. On the 24th, the stomach
remaining quiet, and the mist: ammon: appearing to agree better with that organ than any-
thing else, the patient was directed to take a drachm of it every hour, day and night, unless
asleep ; and as tliere was troublesome cough and restlessness, \ gr. morphia was given every
night from this date. Brandy, in some form, was recommended, if she could be prevailed on to
take it; and a little chicken-tea was ventured upon. Mist: camph: was afterwards combined
■with the ammonia mixture. The young lady finally recovered, most unexpectedly to myself;
and the severity of the fever may be inferred from the fact that she lost her hair subsequently.
This case and Boyd (case 71) are the only ones I have ever known to recover after black
vomit had come on, ever so slightly, in all my experience. The Charleston physicians report
a number of recoveries after the occurrence of this usually fatal symptom; more, I believe, than
in former epidemics. We have all read of these recoveries, and no one had reason to doubt the
fact of their sometimes occurring, but I never expected to see an instance. These two patients
were very ditferent; Boyd was a very great drunkard, and the original organization was worn
out, and could not be trusted ; this young girl had led an innocent life, and, though there was
tendency to pulmonary disease, much might be trusted to nature. In both of these cases, how-
ever, there was only incipient black vomit, the inner coat of the stomach remaining intact ; for
we can scarcely conceive of recovery taking place after confirmed black vomit, when the mucous
coat is in a state of disorganization.
Treatment of Yellotv Fever. — The general plan may be seen from the cases ; adjuvants being
almost wholly omitted from the reported treatment. Calomel and quinia were given in all
cases from the beginning, and the former was never omitted from each dose of the latter in the
last part of October, when the disease assumed a more malignant character than belbre ; and it
may be remarked in this place, that if a great mistake was made in treatment during the whole
epidemic, it was in the cases of Fitzpatrick and Johnson (cases 62 and 67), in which calomel
ought to have been pushed with every dose of quinine to downright ptyalism. It is my opinion
230 EEPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
that each of these men iniirlit jiossibly have hecn saved — tliniigh notoriously great drunkards,
and had subjects — by this course of treatment, for no otlier method could have done it; hut,
perhaps, I have more reason to rejoice that tlie mortality was no greater. Fitzjiatrick was
strongly suspected, also, of having "played old soldier." Compare these two cases with some
others, particularly cases G8 and 71. Bilious i'ever was treated on the same ])rinciples; the
lighter the case, the more care was taken to avoid ptyalism.
It affords me great pleasure to hear testimony in favor of this plan of treatment during this
epidemic, which is the same as that pursued by myself at Vera Cruz in the summer of 1847;
and it is the more cheerfully done, because it is not at present the i'ashionable treatment, like
oil and lemon-juice, snake-root and salts, verbena, &c., &c. From the tliousand inliilllhle spe-
cifics advertised iu the medical journals and newspapers for the cure of yellow fever, it m.ay be
inferred that every plan of treatment is somewhat uncertain, and that we have to contend with
/ a malignaat disease. Tiie more certain cures we see advertised for any disease, the more un-
J^ certain the treatment; and we see, notwithstanding infallible treatmentT— that yellow fever
patients do die, as at New Orleans, Havana, Bermuda, &c. It may be said that my patients
escaped in spite of the doctor ; and this could be said if I had lost 1.5 or 20 of them in 48 cases
of severe and malignant yellow fever, instead of 4 in 48 ; and, in reality, the physician ought
not to be held responsible for more than 2 cases out of the 4 fatal ones. (See cases 58 and 5'J.)
There was, however, a mortality of 4 in more than 100 cases of fever at Fort Moultrie. If mer-
curials are so injurious in yellow fever, as is contended by many, whether by dissolving the blood,
by creating great nervous irritation, by exciting inflammation of the mucous coat of the stomach
and duodenum, or for any other reason, most of my patients ought to have died. But did they
die? We will see when we come to the statistics of the epidemic.
Venesection was not practised in a single instance ; cups were freely employed, but leeches
were not used in any case, cups answering every purpose. Anodynes were in universal use,
particularly at night. Ice was freely used in a few special cases, but it was not generally re-
(juired. Sinapisms and epispastics were freely applied. Brandy, in some shape agreeable to
the patient, was universally used — more so, perhaps, than in any epidemic I have ever wit-
nessed, and pretty early in the disease, with the best effect, in the cases of temperate females as
well as with old topers. Mist: ammon: carb: was employed in the advanced stages of some of
the most malignant cases, with excellent effect. Ale and wine were sometimes given, when the
brandy did not agree with the stomach. So soon as the first stage of the disease had somewhat
jmssed, chicken and beef tea were given in small quantities. It is not necessary to go more into
detail.
Symptoms have not been detailed. It is easy to jjerceive, I'rom almost every case, what are
considered diagnostic symptoms, and the rest have been almost wholly omitted. Pain of the
back and limbs has not been much noticed, for it is by no means pathognomonic, occurring in
every southern fever. It is mentioned in this place for the purpose of alluding to the dis{)osi-
tion, generally prevalent at the commencement of the yellow fever, to call all fevers dengue,
after its predecessor of 1850, when these pains were so common ; but they were just as common
and severe in this fever. They are common in all southern fevers. The jjulse was slow, fre-
quent, full, weak, &c., in all stages of the different cases. The tongue is no criterion. It was
nearly natural in appearance, flabby, white, yellow and loaded, brown and moist, brown and
dry, black, had red edges, &c., in different cases. The organ presented almost every variety of
appearance.
Little will be said concerning the nature of yellow fever. When the disease first occurred to
me, it was regarded as sui generis — as different from all otlier southern fevers ; but it must be
confessed that this opinion has been considerably modified ; and, at the present time, it is be-
lieved that intermittent, remittent, continued, congestive, and yellow fevers are nearly related,
if not modifications of the same fever — all being southern bilious fevers; the nervous system in
some, and the blood in others, being pre-eminently aflected. Whether the difference in these
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
231
varieties of southern fever, in different seasons and in the same season, depends on a simple dif-
ference of intensity in the predispo.sing and exciting causes with the same materies mo'rbi;
whether different causes exist at the .same time, developing the different forms of fever; or,
whether there is a blending and conversion of types, as is maintained by Dr. Dickson — all re-
mains to be determined. It is easy to diagnosticate a mild and open remittent from a malig-
nant yellow fever ; but the different rounds between the extremities of the ladder are so numer-
ous as to render the central one, the dividing line, difficult to distinguish. This was particu-
larly so in the fevers of 1852 ; and some cases were registered as remittent fever in the month
of September, which might have been, with equal propriety, named and reported as yellow
fever. As the fevers became more malignant, in the month of October, there was no sort of
difficulty in determining their true cliaracter.
STATISTICS OF THE EPIDEMIC.
I. Table shoioing the classes of persons attached to the gan-ison of Fort Moultrie, with their febrile
diseases and mortality.
t
I
09
t
o i
11
o
is
No. cases of other
fevers.
Total number of all
fevers.
KG. SICKj
PER 1,000, WITB 1
DBATHS PROM
MORTALITY PER
CENT. FROM—
—'
DESIGNATION.
1
s
o
■©
s
S
6
o
i
1
<
>
o
"3
><
s i
s %
<
>•
2
1
1
1
a
Officers
9
112
9
29
25
2
7
7
33
8
4
27
3
1 15
11
4
60
3
23
11
295
276
444
241
333
517
440
444
535
333
793
440
1
Enlifited men - __ -_ ---
4
12. 12
6.66
85
White male adults, not military- -
1
White children _.
[
, 2
1 2
2 1
2 1
285
285
285
285
Total --
200
41
64
1 105
1
205
320
525
4
9.75
1
3.80
20
II. Table showing the exposure, fevers, &c. , of different classes of persons during the epidemic.
Designation.
1
Strength. Cases of yel- Other fe- Total number
1 low fever. ! vers. cases of fever.
]
1 1
Drill Guard ' Faligne duty or previous Provision for respira-
duty. duly. | exposure. tion.
1
1
Officers . 9 i 4
4
1 Lierht-- Litrht Verv crood.
Enlisted men 1 112 33 ! 27
OffiffTR' ladip<? 7 i 1 ' 4
60
Severe. .
Severe Good.
None Very good.
Severe . _ ' Good.
^^fllfllPTft' WIVPR ' 1ft 1 7 Q ! ^C\
White female servants . .
4 1 ... 2
2
3
11
light 1 Good.
Moderate or light. . Good.
None - Good.
Light : Moderately good.
Moderate Moderately good.
None - Moderately good.
9 ' 3
Wliitp rhildrPTi
25 11
2
Colored females
Colored children
Total -
7 2
2
9
7 2
' 200 ! 41 ! 64
105
i
232
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
III. Table showing the habit of intemperance in different classes of persons belonging to the garri-
son, with their febrile diseases, (be., dtc. ,
f
m
i
•c
Q
i
u
s
•c
-a
1
1
c
n
SODliR I'ERSONS, IIRINKCRS. HARD DRINKERS.
PRnNKARIlS
DEATHS.
Designation.
II
1
o
1
£ ■
><
>
u
O
>
o
>
1
•a
e3
X
C
s
1
Enlisted men of company E
" " " K
21
45
43
3
18
4
9
25
2
7
7
12
20
18
1
18
4
5
25
2
6
3
3
2
8
1
4
17
14
1
1
5
7
1
7
4
6
—
2
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
5
9
4
6
1
" " " ' M.
4
4
93
" "of other corps
Soldiers' wives ------
9
2
2
11
White female servants -_._._
1
2
1
1
2
7
7
2
2
1
Total
184
117
12
16
39
21
38
4
4
3
15
11
4
4
22
IV. 2'a6Ze of comparison between companies K and 31, from October 1st to the end of the epidemic.
B
g
1
Drinkers and drunk-
ards.
1
SOBER MEN.
DRINKERS AND
DRDNKARDS.
& d
C o
- s
o S'
O a)
c
o
g
c
a
Q
Enlisted men.
>
I
o
>
1
2
>
o
Remarks.
Company K
Company M
20
18
25
25
45
43
5
7
—
6
11
1
1
244
419
22
23
In every table, and in all cases, it
is to be recollected that company M
was not present in September.
4
93
V. Table of different classes of persons, not military, pertaining to the garrison, toith their febrile
diseases.
Designation.
No. of per-
sons.
No. cases of No. sick per 1000
yellow fever, witli yel. fever.
No. cases of
remit, fever.
No. sick per 1000
witli remit, fever.
No. cases in all
Total fevers.
No. sick per 1000
witli all fevers.
Deaths.
Officers' ladies ---
7
18
4
9
25
2
7
7
1 > 143
7 389
4
9
2
3
11
571
500
500
333
440
5
16
2
3
11
714
889
500
333
440
Soldiers' "wives
Wliite female servants
AVliite males-- -------
White children- --- -
Colored adult females
2
2
286
286
2
2
286
286
Total..- -
79
8 101 1 S."?
418
41
519
AMONG THE TROOrS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
VI. Table of mortality in yelloio fever, in all the cases treated.
233
Designation.
No. of cases. Deaths. Mortality per ct.
Enlisted men 33
Women of garrison 8
Not of garrison — citizens 7
Total ' 48
12. 12
8.33
Tlie first table requires no explanation. The second, third, and fifth tables give the differ-
ent clas.se8 of person.s attaclied to garrison more distinctly than the first, the previous exposure,
provision for respiration, and their character for sobriety, with their febrile diseases and mor-
tality. Under the head of "officers' ladies," are included visitors who remained through the epi-
demic in precisely the same condition as the class in which they are included. Among soldiers'
wives are included several women who assisted as laundresses, who married soldiers then or
shortly after, and whose situation, in every respect, duty, fatigue, sobriety, &c., was the same
as the class into which they are incorporated. This class of persons was temperate. They
were exposed to great fatigue during the heavy rains, and the cases of fever were no less than
889 per 1,000; but there was not a single death. The mortality among enlisted men was 35
per 1,000 ; and in company M, the only company which lost men, the mortality was 93 per
1,000. The provision for respiration was good for both classes; the fatigue and exposure were
great in both classes; the drunkenness was great among the men, and there was none of it
among the women ; and, although the sickness per 1,000 among the enlisted men was 535,
and among the camp women 889, the mortality was nothing in one class, and in the other
35 per 1,000, or 6.66 per cent, of all fevers. The fevers of this year, both remittent and yellow,
were universally more easy to manage among females than in men. The third table shows the
fevers among drunkards, with whom is classed one habitual opium-taker. From this table it
appears that company E had rather more cases of all sorts of fever than company K, or 619 per
1,000, while K had 578 per 1,000 ; but the number of yellow fever cases was much less in E,
amounting to only 95 per 1,000, while the number sick with yellow fever in K was 267 per
1,000, and in company M the yellow fever cases were 419 per 1,000. The number of soldiers'
wives sick per 1,000 with yellow fever was 389; other fevers, 500; all fevers, 889; as seen in
the fifth table, but there was not a single death. To what can this difference be ascribed? To
what is the exemption of company E from yellow fever, as compared with company K, to be
attributed, unless to the comparative freedom from' hard drinkers and old drunkards? The two
companies had been side by side during the whole year, and their barrack-rooms, duties, and
exposures had been alike in every respect. The following table exhibits the prevalence of fever
among sober men and drunkards in the respective companies.
t
£
SOBER MEN.
HARD DRINKERS AND DRUNKARDS.
Company.
B
1
i
o
>•
.e
E
g
<
SICK PER 1,000 WITH —
i
1
s
.a
s
3
1
■3
>
E
1
1
i
>
<
SICK PER 1,000 WITS—
yellow Other
fever, fevers.
All
fevers.
Yellow
fever.
Other
fevers.
All
fevers.
E
21
45
43
20
18
1
5
7
4
6
5
11
7
1
83 ^ 333
250 1 300
388
416
550
388
—
7
19
22
1
7
11
5 6
143
368
500
714
316
45
857
684
545
K
6
1
13
12
M
4
'
S. 9&
'
to
234 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Company M was not present in September, and there was little fever, other than yellow, in
the month of October. Tlie September cases are included in companies E and K, and are
almost entirely remittent.
There were three men of other corps present during the whole epidemic, in whom yellow
fever is apparently in an inverse ratio to the above statement; but this is not in reality the fact,
for the sober man who had yellow fever was undergoing punishment (hard labor, confinement,
&c.), by sentence of general court-martial, for mutinous conduct; the hard drinker, who had
mild remittent fever, was on light duty, and was but little exposed ; and the one who escaped
all fever — a thief, a liar, and a drunkard, also undergoing punishment for desertion by sentence
of general court-martial — was an exception to all rules, being completely hardened, both
morally and physically.
We have high authority for asserting that intemperance is a strong predisposing cause of
fever in hot climates. Dr. Carpenter says : "Its efficacy has been generally attributed to the gene-
ral disorder of the nutrient process, and to the weakening of the vital powers, which it tends to
induce; but, to us, it appears that it possesses a more direct and special action. One of the
best established among the consequences of the introduction of alcohol into the blood, is its
rapid oxidation, whereby it is itself eliminated from the circulating current; but, in thus
greedily appropriating to itself the oxygen which the respiratory process supplies, it prevents
the oxidation of other substances, of which it is one of the special objects of that process to get
rid; thus tending to induce the same condition of the blood as that which is consequent upon
obstructed respiration. And the peculiar potency of this cause in hot climates, where the oxi-
dating process, as measured by the production of carbonic acid, does not take place at above half
the rate at which it is carried on in a colder atmosphere, is a strong confirmation gf this view."
The sixth table gives the number and mortality of the yellow fever cases ; and, at the risk of
repetition, is intended to show the result of the practice pi;rsued. A comjiarison of the cases
with this table shows that the main remedy, one in universal use — the combination of calomel
and quinine — was not so inefficacious, nor so prejudicial, as has been represented by many phy-
sicians. If the combination had been inefficacious, there must have been a large mortality ; but
it is scarcely probable that two such powerful articles of the materia medica, which show their
effects on the system so obviously, should prove inert; and their influence in this epidemic,
either for good or evil, is undoubted. If i^rejudicial in their action, the mortality must have
been frightful; for both articles were administered so freely, that scarcely a chance was left for
recovery. But there was no such mortality, and the treatment was as successful as any mode
of practice could be expected to prove in any circumstances. Much has been said against this
mode of treating the disease ; but what plan of treatment has ever jiroved infallible? A clerical
gentleman very kindly remarked to me one day, that he did not know of a more disgusting
sight than to go into the wards of a hospital filled with sick, undergoing ptyalism. I replied
that it was disagreeable; but, to me, it was not half so disagreeable a sight as to enter the
wards of a hospital filled with patients having black vomit. The occurrence of ptyalism in this
yellow fever was never an unpleasant sight to me ; on the contrary, it was always hailed as the
harbinger of recovery. If a simple mode of treating yellow fever can be devised, by wliich it
may always be cured, cito, iuto, jucunde, no one will more cheerfully follow it than myself, to
the exclusion of calomel, quinine, cupping, blistering, and all other unpleasant remedies.
Our limits will permit of but a single remark on the modus operandi of quinine. It is
regarded by a very great majority of the profession as a sedative; but, since the free use of it
in the severe and malignant fevers of Florida, in 1839, '40, and '41, 1 have regarded it as having
a peculiar stimulant action on the nervous system ; nor have I since seen reason to change the
opinion. The salts of quinine seem to have a peculiar affinity, if we may so speak, for nervous
matter ; and hence their beneficial action in many diseases. Dr. Stevens believed that the
sulphate has an effect on the blood in malignant fevers, though not to the extent of some of the
other alkaline salts.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION
235
It may be said that this epidemic was of a mild cliaiacter. It wa.s not so mali;j;nant as that at
(St. Augustine, Florida, in 1841 ; nor was it so severe as the yellow fever at Pascagoula, Mis-
sissippi, in 1848, though more prevalent ; but it appeared to be as grave a fever as that of Vera
Cruz in 1847, though the mortality, from circumstances, was immensely greater in that town
than on Sullivan's Island and at Fort Moultrie. A glance at tlie cases will show that the
epidemic was not of a mild character. On a certain night visit in October, ten patients were
considered in a very hazardous situation ; but fortunately only two of them were lost, the others
recovering under the i'ree use of calomel and quinine ; which ought not to have been the case, if
the remedies were pernicious. The following table shows the number of all cases during the
epidemic months, with the exception of three fever cases in August:
Months.
Be^ignation.
i
s
■a
1
>
Cholera infantum.
Cholera morbus.
a
s
=
£
1.
a
All other diseases.
Total number of
cases.
•g
5
e
en
Septera'r
October _
(1
Officers and enlisted men
Women, children, servants, &c.-
Officers and enlisted»men. -
W^omen, children, servants, &c. .
Officers and enlisted men
Women, children, servants, &c. -
71 ' 24
61 ; 15
121 3
79 12
107 , 1
U 6
1 '
1
2 L
29
5 2
1
2
1
■ 2
1
3
2
2
3
4
4
2
29
25
38
24
1
3
Eiicephalitis.
Yellow fever.
3
1
13 19
2 : 12
!
1
Yellow fever.
ii
1
61
41 3 i 4
10
28
147
5
Every case of cholera infantum, cholera morbus, and dysentery, in the preceding table,
occurred in persons who had not been from the island for weeks, and some of them had never
been from the island in their lives. Every case originated on Sullivan's Island. Of the remit-
tent fever, almost every case originated here ; for, after the public notice of July 24, and the
subsequent post regulation, not a man was permitted to stay in Charleston over night, and few
wished to go there; nor did the women and children, who had these diseases, go to town at all.
It has been already shown that the yellow fever originated on Sullivan's Island. About the
origin of the disease, there can be no question.
The foregoing tables do not perfectly agree with the quarterly reports of sick in a few par-
ticulars, the mean strength not being the same as the full number of persons.
Etiology. — The generation of yellow fever appears not to depend on the presence of one par-
ticular thing or cause, but on the presence or combination of several ; and the following seem
to have been the principal ones in 1852, as in previous years, viz:
1. Intemperance, or the excessive use of alcoholic liquors. — We have sufficiently alluded to
the pernicious effects of the free use of spirituous liquors on the system in hot climates. On
Sullivan's Island, the chief source of revenue is from the sale of liquor licenses; and there were
not less than thirteen licensed grog-shops in 1852, in a population of perhaps 2,000 in summer,
and as many hundreds in winter; besides illicit venders, all of whom dispensed the vilest com-
pounds to their unfortunate customers. The effect of such villanous liquor on the system is
obvious.
2. Fatigue and exposure. — Dr. Carpenter says: "The fotigue resulting from excessive mus-
cular exertion, is commonly accounted one of the predisposing causes of zymotic disease; and
this, too, is usually supposed to operate merely in occasioning a general depression of the vital
powers. All muscular exertion, it is now universally admitted, involves, as its condition, a
236 REPORT ON TUE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
disintegration of muscular tissue, the components of wliicli normally undergo oxidation, so as to
be partly eliminated by the resjiiratory ])roccss under the form of carbonic acid and water, and
partly liy tiie kidneys under tliat of urea, &c. Now, if the disintegration of mnsele by exercise
take place faster than the matter thus set free to decompose can be oxidated and eliminated, it
must remain in the blood for a time in that very state of readiness to change, which renders it
peculiarly iermentable; and thus its i)resence in the circulating current will give to the blood
the same susceptibility to the action of zymotic poisons, which it will derive from any of the
causes."
On iSullivan's Island the condition, habits, latigue, exposure, &c., of the same class of people,
are similar. During the summer of 1852, the garrison of Fort Moultrie was small, and for a
time the men had to go on guard every alternate day, the other day being devoted to severe
fiitigue duty, as getting wood and water, draining the fort and parade, which had been deluged
by the heavy rains, &c. ; so that their fatigue and exposure were very great. The company
women (laundresses) also suffered from fatigue and exi^osure. These two classes of persons^
the enlisted men and companj' women, chiefly suffered from yellow fever.
3. Impvrftct ventilation. — On this cause of disease, Dr. Carpenter is so interesting as to merit
a long notice : ' ' An accumulation of disintegrating matter in the system may be due, not merely
to its excessive production, but to any obstacle which interferes with its due elimination; and
this will especially be the case, when the respiratory i)rocess is imperfectly performed. All
physiological and pathological evidence tends to indicate the paramount importance of this pro-
cess ; not merely as regards the direct elimination, through the lungs, of a large amount of
matter which is undergoing change, but also as furnishing the conditions by which the matters,
properly to be excreted by the kidneys, are brought into the normal condition for being thus
eliminated. For any prolonged deficiency of respiration necessarily lowers the general oxidating
])rocess throughout the body ; and thus it happens that an undue amount of carbonaceous matter
is thrown upon the kidneys for excretion, and that the highly-azotized compounds are not so
completely brought^ as they should be, into the condition of urea. Now, that over-crowding,
and, consequently, deficient aeration of the blood, is one of the most frequent causes of the
severity of epidemics, is a fact so universally recognized by all who have attended to the subject,
that we need scarcely do more than advert to it. ' '
On Sullivan's Island this cause of disease is not so powerful as in Charleston. The dwellings
are farther apart on the island than in the city, and there is a better circulation of air ; but
still there is imperfect ventilation in the crowded old houses and kitchens, whose floors are on
the ground, and whose timbers are decayed. These decaying houses are the most liable to be
crowded ; and one can be pointed out, which, in 1852, contained three Irish families, a free negro
or two, and in the house and yard there were cats, dogs, jsigs, cows, chickens, &c. The whole
house was not comfortable or decent for one small family. In the fort, the ventilation is, in
general, good — best in the officers' quarters, next in the men's barrack-rogms, and worst in
the servants' rooms, which are on the ground-floor. The barrack-rooms are on the same floor
with the officers' quarters, in the second story, and are much more airy, though more crowded,
than the servants' rooms. Every man had a bunk for himself. The companies being small,
the rooms were not so much crowded as might be supposed ; but, when compared with the offi-
cers', there was imperfect ventilation. The men, for tliis reason, have a practice of sleeping on
the piazza in warm climates — a practice which is unhealthy, and, in the fever season, dan-
gerous.
4. High solar heat. — This acts in two ways: on the human system, and by rapidly promoting
animal and vegetable decomixisition. It is always necessary for the production of yellow fever,
and always prevails in the harbor of Charleston. But it is well known that high heat alone,
though indispensable, does not produce yellow fever. It is a powerful predisijonent, and devel-
ops other active agents.
The summer temi)erature of Sullivan's Island is high, and when the sea-breeze dies away, as
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
237
is often the case at ebb-tide, or the wind is west, the heat is oppressive. There is not a hotter
street in the United States tlian Middle street. Tlie sui'face of the island is composed of sand;
but little grass grows to absorb or soften the sun's rays; there are few trees, and none for
shade; the houses are retired from the street, so as to afford no protection from the sun; and the
direct and reflected heat is often intolerable. Persons whose pursuits allow them to remain in
doors during the day, are tolerably well off; but the active man of business will find that
Charleston is more comfortable than Sullivan's Island from sunrise till 11 o'clock, a. m., and
from 3, p. M., till sunset ; the shade of the houses affording great protection from the sun. The
only advantage of an island residence is in the nights, wliich are not so uncomfortable as in the
city.
5. With high altitude of the thermometer in the low country of the south, humidity and a
high dew-point are always associated. This is tlie case in Charleston harbor. The Meteoro-
logical Kegister of Fort Moultrie, for three years, shows this.
Mean of the deiu-point.
May
June
July ■
August ...
September
1849.
70.19
75.36
76.27
77.69
71.70
1852.
70.51
72.94
78. 70
75.77
71.74
1853.
66.50
71.40
77.33
75.32
71.85
Humidity and a high dew-point play an important part in the causation of febrile diseases.
It is not the sole cause, but there is no question that a high dew-point is a powerful agent; and
we may conclude, in the language of another, "that a high dew-point has a tendency to "pro-
duce injurious effects on the system ; that it is often found to exist in unhealthy localities, or
during pestilential times ; and that it must assist much in the development of autumnal and
jjeriodic fevers, are facts which no one will question." We may go further, and affirm thai
yellow fever never prevails in a jilace, endemically or epidemically, unless there is a high dew-
point. Indeed, heat, humidity, and a high dew-point are always present in summer, as is evi-
dent to the most common observer, in the rapidity with which butcher's meat takes on the
putrefactive process ; and the humidity of the climate is shown by the rapid oxidation of all
articles of clothing, the rusting of keys in one's pocket, the mildew on linen clothing, the
injury done to cloth garments, the mould on leather, &c.
It is the great humidity which renders the lower story, or ground-floor, of Fort Moultrie
unwholesome and unhealthy for quarters, though not in casemates. Salubrious residences can-
not be constructed directly on or near the ground in the southern country, but tliey must be ele-
vated a few feet ; and in no part of the United States are casemates proper for quarters, being
always damp and unwliolesome ; nor can they, with the utmost care, be constructed so as to
avoid tlie difficulty ; and tliey ought to be occupied by human beings only in a state of siege.
The mass of masonry in a casemate so rapidly and powerfully condenses the vapor of tlie atmo-
sphere, as to render a casemate, in a short time, uninhabitable. The officers' quarters and men's
barrack-rooms are as comfortable and as free from dampness as any rooms on Sullivan's Island,
not being in casemates, and in the second story ; the lower story, or ground-floor, however, is
very damp, and unfit for residences ; and the brick pavement* in front is always damp, and cov-
ered with fungi. This story was but little occupied in 1S52, principally by a few servants and
the guard — the guard-room being on a level willi the ground-floor of the barracks.
I'.iifk is uulit for lloors, unkss previously dipped iu boiliiiy piteL or itsphaltum.
.238 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
C. Drainage. — There is no drainage on Sullivans Island, except the most trifling surface
drainage. The wliole island is composed of sand, which is very porous, and water is found just
below the surface in tiio drycst season; this surface water being always a mixture of fresh and
salt waters, which is insalubrious. The tides wash up sand, mud, and slime, particularly on
the back beach, which is exposed to the intense heat of the sun at the ebb, and permanently
as the spring tides gradually subside to neap tide.
The water in the wells, even in the dryest summer, is always near the surface. There is a
"potter's field"' on the cast end of the island, in a ])art termed the "Myrtles," and here the
graves have to be bailed out, in the dryest season, just before interment; and in a wet season
the water runs in faster than it can be bailed out, so tliat a weight has to be attached to the
cofBu.
Can Sullivan s island be drained? The solution of this t[uestion is important. If tlie island
cannot be drained, severe epidemics must occasionally occur, as they have always occurred, at
intervals. Certain lots may be filled with sand, or superficially drained; but more than this
is required, especially on the back beach. A thorough system of deep or sub-soil drainage
over every part of the island is necessary, at least from the hotel (Moultrie House) on the east
to the steam-ferry on the west; and as the settlement extends, the drains should also be ex-
tended. The faster the island fills up with inhabitants, the more essential are drainage and
every part of sanitary police; for the more the island village assimilates to a city, the more
necessary will sanitary measure become^ and still more will the diseases resemble those of
Charleston than hitherto. That the island can be drained, there is no doubt. General Totten
assured me, in a conversatiou last spring, (1853,) that the measure is practicable. The General
was on the island when the conversation took place. The sooner the island is drained, the bet-
ter. In my bumble opinion, nothing will more conduce to salubrity, or more surely prevent
periodical visitations of epidemic disease, than a well-regulated system of drainage.
7. Bad sanitary police. — On Sullivan's Island there is really no sanitary police. From the
first^of May to the first of November, a small allowance is made by the village authorities for
the purpose of removing the putrefying carcasses of animals, which float down the river past
Charleston, and are carried by the current and tide on to the south side of the island, and these
are usually got oft' in a putrid state ; but from the first of November to the first of May, people
are supposed to have no nostrils, lungs, nor stomach, and the bodies of dead animals are not
removed. There are numerous small and crowded houses, in addition to the negro kitchens,
which are occupied by Irish and other families, who are more filthy in their habits than the
negroes ; and for years the filth of all sorts — kitchen slops, and everything which can be men-
tioned — has been cast abroad, or allowed to accumulate. The privies are another nuisance.
They are literally above ground ; and in certain localities, in the heat of summer, the effluvia are
very ofiensive. During the heavy rains in 1852, the water in the vaults — where there were
vaults — was on a level with the surface of the earth ; and north of Middle street, towards the
back beach, the higb tides floated out the contents of several, spreading them over the adjacent
soil. The contents of the privies, with other filth, in such a porous soil as this, must undoubt-
edly affect the water to some extent, and in every respect contribute to insalubrity. No privy
ought to be constructed in such a porous soil as this, without a vault of brick or stone work,
rendered water-tight by cement.
8. Bad icater. — Tlie well-water of Sullivan's Island is brackish and unwholesome, and
cisterns to the dwellings are as scaixe and as valuable as diamonds from Golconda. Few of the
bouses have them, insomuch that a cistern is an exception to the general rule. The wells,
water, &c., have been sufliciently spoken of under the head of drainage. The wealthy fixmi-
lies, who reside on the island only in the summer season, are able to procure pure water in the
neighborhood; but those who need it most — the poor, the miserable, and the degraded, who
remain during the whole yeai' — cannot get it. The water at Fort Moultrie — for drinking, cu-
linary purposes, and washing — is cistern water, of which there is an abundance during the
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
239
rainy season ; tut in a time of drought tlie garrison has to he put on short allowance, the hrack-
ish water of the wells having to he resorted to for general purposes.
9. Heavy rains. — These were a cause — predisposing and' exciting — of the malignant fever of
1852, hoth in Charleston and on Sullivan's Island, producing, in combination with other causes,
yellow and severe bilious fevers. The summer of this year was very wet, the quantity of rain
in each month being as follows :
Months.
Sullivan's Island. Charleston.
Slay
June .
July
August
September
Total quantity
4.17
8.86
5.43
4.15
11.70
4.22
5.18
6.93
4.21
12.27
34.31
32.81
Whole quantity for the year : Sullivan's Island, 51.26 inches ; Charleston, 49 72 inches. *
The quantity of rain which fell in Charleston is taken from the tables of Dr. Dawson, City
Kegister. From the records, we see that, both in the city and on the island, about two-thirds
of the whole quantity of rain for the year fell in the five hot months — every one of which had
more than an average quantity ; and that by the first of September the earth was fully satu-
rated, when 11 or 12 inches more were added, most of it in the first days of the month. The
Register of Fort Moultrie shows that, during the first twelve days of September, 9.40 inches
fell; and from tlie 7th to the 12th, inclusive, (six days,) there was no less than 7.80 inches,
1.30 inch per day — the earth being previously saturated ; and it must be recollected that the
epidemic broke out in a decided form on the 7th and 8th of the month, and that the first case
of yellow fever occurred on the 11th; showing evidently that these heavy rains were the ex-
citing cause, acting on systems predisposed to disease by heat, great humidity, and a high dew-
point, by which malaria is rapidly evolved, and all acting in conjunction with other evident
causes of disease. Perhaps the matter was rendered still worse by the dry weather and rapid
evaporation which followed ; for there was not a drop of rain from the 25th of September to
the 9th of October, nor from the 14th of October to the end of the month — the whole of Octo-
ber being very fair, with only 1.20 inch of rain. From the 15th to the 25th of October, in-
clusive, at every meteorological observation, four times a day, the clearness of the sky was 10,
which denotes clear sky without a cloud ; prevailing wind, northerly. During the pouring
rains of September, the whole country was nearly submerged, in consequence of which various
types of fever prevailed ; and on Sullivan's Island bilious and yellow fever were universal ; the
former being very common — -indeed, so much so, as to merit the term universal — the only healthy
spot in the vicinity of Charleston being the barren and circumscribed post of Fort Sumpter.
Cases of "country fever" occurred at the village of Mount Pleasant. Under the head of drain-
age, the condition of Sullivan's Island was sufiiciently shown, and more is not required.
We have considered the principal apparent causes of yellow fever in 1852, which appear to
have been the same as those of previous epidemics; and they are: 1. Intemperance ; 2. Fatigue
and exjwsure; 3. Imperfect ventilation; 4. High solar heat; 5. Humidity and a high dew-
point; 6. Defective drainage; 7. Bad sanitary police, which includes animal and vegetable de-
composition ; 8. Bad water; 9. Heavy rains.
These different causes are of more or less importance in the production of disease ; for yellow
fever may occur (as in 1852) in persons who are not intemperate, and have suftered no expo-
sure or fatigue, and therefore these cannot be considered essential causes ; but there are others
240 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
which are essential, without which the disease cannot exist, Avhich are unavoidahle and always
present — as liigh solar heat, humidity, and a high dew-point ; and there are important causes
which are not unavoidahle, and are removahle, hut, acting with the unavoidahle causes, gene-
rate malaria, or tlic materie-s morhi, with wonderful rapidity — as had ventilation, defective
drainage, and a had sanitary police generally; and which should be obviated without delay, in
order to neutralize the unavoidahle causes. Good drainage will remove another cause of
disease — heavy rains — by running the water rapidly from the surface into the liarhor; and thus
it will he prevented from becoming stagnant and putrid.
A consideration of the causes of yellow fever brings us directly to the subject of contagion.
Entering the profession a believer in the contagion of yellow fever, my first experience with
the disease changed that opinion ; the two jjrincipal reasons for the change being, that the
febrile contagion could not possibly have been imported, and that the physicians, attendants,
&c., of the hospital, were remarkably exempt from the prevailing epidemic. Every subse-
quent epidemic has strengthened this opinion — none more than that of Fort Moultrie in 1852;
so that, at the present time, I would as soon think of becoming an abolitionist as a conta-
gionist.
Let us see what contagion there was in the Fort Moultrie hospital in 1852. It must be ad-
mitted that the physicians, stewards, and nurses of a yellow fever hospital are peculiarly liable
to contract the disease, if it is contagious. During the epidemic, the surgeon, steward, and
four attendants, all continually exposed for weeks together, had no kind of fever; three attend-
ants and one cook had remittent fever in September, but nothing like yellow fever afterwards ;
and three attendants and one cook had yellow fever. Thus, we have 14 persons on duty in the
hospital, of whom 6 liad no kind of fever, 4 had remittent fever in the month of September, and
only 4 had yellow fever. Throwing out the cooks, who were not so much exposed among the
sick as the others, and we have 6 who had no fever, 3 who had remittent, and 3 who had yel-
low fever; and those 12 persons were exposed witli the sick in an especial manner. We have,
then, only 3 persons sick in 12, who had been exposed to yellow fever — a circumstance which
seems incredible in a malignant disease of a contagious character. The whole of these persons
were on hard duty, and had no regular rest at night — a circumstance which would predispose
to disease — yet three-fourths of them escaped. This would not seem possible, nor is it so, with
contagious diseases — the smallpox, for instance.
Having had much to say in relation to the drunkenness and worthlessness of a portion of the
command during the autumn of 1852, it affords me great pleasure to bear testimony to the good
conduct of the remainder, and especially of those on duty in the hospital. These were con-
stantly on hard service with the sick during the day, and at night by detail ; in all cases doing
their duty with cheerl'ulness and alacrity. I have repeatedly seen the attendants carry the sick
in their arms, in all stages of the disease, without flinching. If soldiers have some bad traits
of character, they have also some good ones, as I have had reason to know in many epidemics;
the class of reliable men, however, must be carefully separated from the unreliable, in all cases,
for service in a military hospital. But the j^rinciple of importation and contagion would para-
lyze any military hospital, and will create a panic among the best troops in the world ; and
conscientiously believing that yellow fever is not contagious, I took special pains to eradicate
the pernicious doctrine, declaring, emphatically, on all occasions, that the disease is never
"catching" or contagious. On no account can such doctrines, discouraging to both sick and
well, be tolerated in military hospitals, especially when one considers them false doctrines.
We know it is common to say " there are exceptions," that "every one is not susceptible to
smallpox," that "persons escape it just as in yellow fever," &c.; but what proportion of tliose
who have not liad it can be expected to escape, and do actually escai^e? It is not so with yellow
fever, scores and hundreds escaping in our cities in eiiidemic seasons, and those who have often
been exposed in all ways. No one could expect that three-fourths of the attendants in a small-
pox hospital would escape, as was the case in the yellow fever hospital at Fort Moultrie.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SODTHERN DIVISION. 241
Again: children, and those born and raised in a place where yellow fever is endemic, rarely have
the disease. But it is not so with smallpox; all are liable to it, in all circumstances, in all cli-
mates, and at all ages, from the cradle to the grave.
There is great difference in the recurrence. Those who have had yellow fever are not con-
sidered so liable to it as before ; but a recurrence is common, and an absence of two or three
years in a cold climate renders a return to a fever region hazardous. But not so with smallpox ;
for a person who has once had it may consider himself safe from all future attacks for the rest
of his life, in all situations, as well at the equator as in the frigid zones. Dr. Gregory says
that writers have made diflerent calculations of the liability to recurrence, as 1 in 8,000, 1 in
10,000, and 1 in 50,000.
Yellow fever ceases, is annihilated, by the occurrence of frost, like all malarious fevers. No
contagious disease is affected in this way by the occurrence of cold weather, as smallpox,
measles, the typhus of Ireland, and the typhoid fever of New England — allowing the last two
to be contagious fevers. None of these are checked or rendered milder by cold weather, and
the most of them, if not all, are aggravated by winter.
Yellow fever does not spread by contagion when carried from a city to the country. Instances
without number might be cited. It is a well-known and established fact, one which has been
acknowledged for years.
In yellow fever hospitals, physicians, nurses, and all persons on duty, are remarkably exempt
from the disease.
Dr. Eush says that "it does not spread in yellow fever hospitals, when they are situated
beyond the influence of the impure air in which it was generated."
But how is it with ship fever, the real typhus? Do the physicians, nurses, and attendants
of all sorts, escape in these fever hospitals, particularly those about the city of New York, so
universally as in the yellow fever hospitals? On the contrary, all these persons are so commonly
attacked, and so many have died, including eminent physicians, that it is difficult to resist the
conclusion of its being a contagious disease. As I have often remarked, I would as soon become
an abolitionist as a yellow fever contagionist.
I have thus given an account of the epidemic of 1852 — roughly drawn out, to be sure, and at
odd times, but it is correct.
I also respectfully submit the following additional information — much more than I expected
to obtain — in relation to the fever epidemics of Sullivan's Island; also some remarks in relation
to the diseases during the year 1853 :
1795. — An aged gentleman, one of the most reliable men in Charleston district, informs me
that he perfectly recollects when yellow fever occurred in a certain locality on Sullivan's Island,
in Middle street, between where the " Alhambra" now is and the fort parade, and there were
several deaths. The cause was this: A large lot was low and quite wet, being, at that day,
little better than a marsh ; and, in the spring of this year, the lot was raised by tilling in with
sedge and marsh-mud, instead of dry sand; and the consequences were dreadful. Yellow fever
broke out in the house situated on this lot, and it was desolated.
1800. — "We have not yet made a sufficient number of observations to determine accurately
how far it is possible for strangers to avoid our yellow fever, by residing, while it is prevalent,
entirely on Sullivan's Island, or in the outskirts, or open, airy environs of Charleston. In one
case, the disease proved fatal to a gentleman on Sullivan's Island, who had not been off the
island I'or six weeks before ; in another, to the head master in the college grammar-school, who
had confined himself to the yard and vicinity thereof from and after the first of July. In all
other cases that have come to my knowledge, the jjersons making the experiment, and who
have taken the disease, had occasionally visited or passed through the thickly-settled parts of
Charleston." — Dr. Bamsay, Medical Repositorij, vol. 4:, p. 219.
The case of the master of the grammar-school shows that complete isolation is no protection
from yellow fever in an epidemic season. See also the cases in the New York penitentiary, in
S. 96 31
242 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
1805; the Kichmond penitentiary, in 18Wi; tlie instance in St. Mary's street, in 1838; and Nor-
ris, in Augusta jail, 18:59.
1802. — "Charleston, in tlie year 1802, was afflicted with four epidemics — the smallpo.K, the
measles, the influenza, and the yellow fever." Tliis shows that there was an "epidemic con-
stitution of the atmosphere," so much ridiculed by some; at any rate, four distinct diseases
were c]iidemic. We would like to know what vessels imported the smallpox, the measles, the
influenza, and the yellow fever; and from what part of the world these diseases were imjtori.ed.
"To others (strangers) arriving in the same season, Sullivan's Island afforded a safe retreat
till the danger was over. Exceptions to this have heretofore been very rare, and generally
could be accounted for from some irregularity ; but, in the year 1802, five cases of ytdlow fever
(and twi) of them fatal) occurred in one house on that island, while the other inhabitants were
generally liealthy."
"No instance can be recollected, in which tliere was any ground to suppose that the yellow
fever was either imported or had been contagious. No physician, nurse, nor other person ex-
posed to contagion, from their intercourse with persons laboring under yellow fever, caught the
disease. It was exclusively conlined to strangers ; and among them there was no evidence of
its being communicated from one to another." — Dr. Ramsay, Med. Re2MS., vol. (>, p. 311.
1807. — "The disease in no instance proved contagious. Some who had taken it retired to the
adjacent country, but oftener to enjoy the salubrious air of Sullivan's Island. In both cases,
whether they lived or died, the disease terminated with them. I mention this circumstance
with pleasure, as it will assist in confirming your learned and judicious observations on the
absurdity of quarantine laws." — Dr. Bamsay to Dr. Mitchell, Med. Repos., vol. 11, j). 234.
1817. — The next account of yellow fever on the island is in this year. Dr. Strobel's state-
ments in relation to it have been sufliciently alluded to ; and we will simply remark, in this place,
that the large number of ])ersons who went to Sullivan's Island to avoid the fever — "many of
them in indigent circumstances," and, of course, " crowded together in narrow, confined apart-
ments" — may have engendered fever as well as in Lynch's lane, in Charleston; and the wjiole
of Dr. Strobel's statement is as much in favor of the generation of the disease on the island, as of
its importation from the city of Charleston. How came the fever in Lynch's lane?
1824. — Tliis year the epidemic yellow fever raged on Sullivan's Island, as well as in Charles-
ton. We will refer to Dr. Simons for the facts, already briefly noticed.
" Independent of the distresses which occurred in the city, the disease broke out with dread-
ful malignancy among those who had sought refuge from its ravages on Sullivan's Island, a
complete sand-bank, about six miles from the city, which has hitherto been considered a secure
retreat. The cause of its occurrence there may be from the dense population, the uncomfort-
ableness of the houses, the accumulation of filth and formation of made land, and the imprudence
of ijersons residing there under the full confidence of their exemjjtion. Each and all of these
may have operated. Other causes may be offered, and have been mentioned, such as miasma
from the contiguous main land, (hut the inhabitants in the village, on that land, were exempt
from tlie disease,) and to a canal near the fort, where the offal was thrown ; but, if this was the
sole exciting cause, it a])pcars singular that tlie soldiers should have been the last affected, and
tiiey but partially. 1 am firmly persuaded very many received the disease in town, and that
it remained latent until some exciting cause brought it into action; yet there were many chil-
dren who took the disease months after they left the city, and these must be attributed to the
first cause." — Carolina Jour. Med. for January, 1825.
The Army Med. Statistics, p. 201, have the following statement: " On referring back to
1824, it is found that, whilst this disease (yellow fever) prevailed with great malignity in the
city, not more than twelve cases, none of which proved fatal, appeared on the island in a
strength of seventy."
This corroborates the statement of Dr. Simons, that the garrison of Fort Moultrie was lightly
and " but partially affected" by the epidemic of this year. The fever was much less severe in
the fort than in the adjoining village of Moultrieville ; for, on the island, apart from the garri-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 243
son, there was great sickness and mortality. From what is now called Accommodation street,
by the " Alhambra," to Fort street, by Mr. Blacklock's house, there was great mortality; and,
if I am not mistaken, it was during this summer that Mr. Goodman's family, residing on
Middle street, between Accommodation and East streets, suffered so severely. It was a distress-
ing season.
Some reference to the ditch or canal of the fort, mentioned by Dr. Simons, will be made
when we come to the epidemic of 1852.
1827. — Yellow fever again prevailed on the island among the garrison of Fort Moultrie.
Dr. Charles F. Luce, Assistant Surgeon U. S. A., died of this disease September 27th, and
there were several other deatlis among the officers and men. Dr. Lebby informs me that
Dr. Ball, who was then practising on the island, was employed to take charge of the hospital
after Dr. Luce's death ; and he thinks the troojjs moved out of the fort and encamped on
the "curlew ground," on account of the fever. Major Lowd, U. S. A., informs me that
it was very sickly at Fort Moultrie during the summer of tliis year, and that there were
many deatlis. One cause of the fever in the fort was supposed to be, that repairs were going on
during the hot weather, and that the lower floors were torn up, by which a large surface of wet or
moist earth, and some accumulation of rubbish, were exposed. There were also much sickness
and several deaths on the parade, and also among the citizens on the back beach; and,
altogether, it was a year of much distress.
Yellow fever prevailed to such an extent in Charleston, that it may almost be considered
epidemic. According to Dr. Simons, there were 67 deaths.
In August of this year the disease was imported from Charleston to Fort Johnson, as stated
in Dr. Lebby's letter. The facts are briefly these : Three United States soldiers stationed at that
post remained a night in the city during the existence of yellow fever ; they returned to the
post, and the ninth day after they were attacked with the disease; they were sick in company
quarters, there being no hos]iital for them; "ten or twelve men slept in the same room with
them, who were alike strangers to the climate," and "yet there were no other cases of di.sease
in the garrison." [See Dr. Lebby's letter.]
Here is an instance of genuine importation, and, under the most favorable circumstances, the
disease did not spread. What becomes of the contagion of yellow fever?
How came the yellow fever in Charleston? Xo one has attempted to prove importation from
the West Indies; nor can I find any account of the diseases of this year in Dr. Strobel's book,
nor in Dr. Hume's paper of December 20, 1853.
1831. — This is not jiut down as a year in which yellow fever occurred in Charleston; but Dr.
Lebby gives some account of the fever at Castle Pinckney: "One of the Irish laborers died in
the city of supjjosed yellow fever. Several other cases of fever occurred afterwards among the
laborers," which Dr. Lebby thinks were cases of bilious remittent fever.
1832. — The information for this year is derived from Dr. Lebby's letter to Dr. Strobel.
"The disease appeared in the city of Charleston, and from two or three of the first cases being
traced to the Irish laborers at the castle, it was supposed to have originated there." A depu-
tation of medical gentlemen visited the post, who thought the disease was caused by a "quan-
tity of shells," wliich had been used "for the purpose of filling up the parade-ground;" and
others thought the disease originated from the "opening of two privies in the north wall, which
had been bricked up for a number of years — their contents, in a decomposed state, taken out in
the month of August, and exposed to the action of the sun, on the bank near by, together with
the exposure of the lower story of the quarters to the action of the atmosphere — it being neces-
sary to rip up the floors, whieli had sunk down to the surface of the ground, and had remained
in that state for some years."
Whether the disease arose from tlie shells on the parade, or the ])rivies and tlie ripping up
of the old floors, or both, it is evident that the disease was of local origin.
Dr. Lebby goes on : "Among those attacked, were Captain Brewerton, the master carpenter,
two masons, and several black laborers. Yellow fever prevailed in Charleston that season, I
244 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
think, to some extent. The venerable Dr. Philip G. Prioleaii attended Captain Brewerton with
me as a consulting physician."
Dr. Lebby considers the cases brought to Fort Johnson as bilious remittent fever. That it
was severe, appears from the fact that Dr. Priolcau assisted in the treatment of Captain Brewer-
ton, and that "several black laborers" had the fever.
1834. — There were 46 deaths from yellow fever in Charleston this year. In the third quar-
ter there are five cases reported at Fort Moultrie, two of wliich proved fatal. Of these cases,
two originated in Charleston, and the other three at Castle Pinckney.
Severe yellow fever prevailed at Castle Pinckney, and there were several deaths; among
others. Captain H. W. Griswold, 1st artillery, who died October 23d.
Here we have 46 deaths from yellow fever in Charleston, and several at Castle Pinckney,
showing that there was an epidemic tendency, if there was no real epidemic. How came there
so much yellow fever in Charleston and at Castle Pinckney during this year? for we have no
account of importation.
Castle Pinckney was used as a lazaretto previous to 1832. It was again recommended to the
city council, December 20, 1853, by their committee, for this purpose ; and it was on the point of
being turned over by the government, when somebody had the good sense to put a stop to the
project. A worse place for sick cannot well be chosen. The castle is surrounded by marshes ;
in winter, it is bleak and disagreeable; in summer, it is damp, unwholesome, and unhealthy.
1838. — Yellow fever attacked the mate of one of the lighters in the service of the govern-
ment, as related by Dr. Lebby: "He slept one night in the city, in September; on the fourth
day he sickened, and, although he was among children at Sullivan's Island, and others who tvere
liable to contract the disease, no other instance of it occurred in the family." And it is con-
tended that this is a contagious disease!
1839. — Captain R , of the Valiant, taken with yellow fever June 16th. This case, by
Dr. Lebby, has been related already. We will make a short extract:
"The next case (next to those on the Valiant and Sea Flower) occurred at Fort Moultrie — an
Irishman, who had not been in the city from May; this occurred in the latter part of August.
On the 18th September, the assistant of Captain Bowman was taken with yellow fever. He
had been in the city on the 10th and 17th. He recovered. On the 20tli Captain Bowman was
taken with bilious inflammatory fever. He had not been from Sullivan's Island during the
season. Several other cases occurred among the families residing back of the fort; while they
assumed a continued form of fever, and in many of their symptoms were nearly allied to yellow
fever, it was very doubtful if they could be properly placed under the head of genuine typhus
icterodes. Many cases of inflammatory or broken-bone fever (so called) occurred in October
among the workmen. '
The first case noticed in the above extract, "the Irishman, who had not been in the city from
May," did not come in contact with the previous cases, and originated on the island; so that
we have several points of origin in and around Charleston, as Fort Moultrie, Fort Johnson,
the Valiant, and the Chatham, Elizabeth Bruce, and Leonore, not one of which had the least
communication with the Burmah (the vessel which the contagionists say brought the fever from
Havana), and could not have contracted the fever from her.
Dr. Lebby states to me as follows; " In 1839, the square bounded by Hall and Blacklock's
houses on the west, the back beach on the north, and Mr. Hilliard's house (near Accommoda-
tion street, by the "Alhiimbra") on the east, including the fort and ibrt inclosure, sufl'ered with
genuine yellow fever. Colonel Blanding died that year on the island. He occupied either Dr.
Hall's or Mr. Deas's house — I think it was Mr. Deas's. It was supposed that he contracted the
disease in the city ; but I am of the opinion, and was at the time, that it was not the case. He
came up to the city in the 8 o'clock, A. m, boat, rode to the bank in a carriage, and returned to the
island at 1 o'clock, ?. m. — always riding in a carriage to the boat. In his case there were, as
I was then informed by his physician, two distinct paroxysms ; so that quinine was administered
during the intermission. In tlic third paroxysm, black vomit came on and destroyed him."
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 245
" Mr. Graham, the inspector of the engineer department, a short time after, came up to the
city in the fort barge, leaving the island al)out 9 o'clock, A. M., and returning to dinner. He
was taken with well-marked yellow fever on the seventh day after, and black vomit came up on
the third night. He recovered. Mr. Gr. lived in the fort, occupying the lower eastern rooms
of officers' quarters. Native of Pennsylvania ; resided at the fort about a year."
"Captain Bowman was extremely ill at the time with a hf^h grade of fever, which, to my
mind, would have been yellow fever, had he not sufiered with the disease in New Orleans pre-
viously ; the peculiar characteristics of this fever, except the inflamed eye and black vomit,
being jiresent."
"Every stranger connected with the fort, who resided in the district above described, (from
Waring's on Accommodation street, to Blacklock's house near Fort street,) suffered with yellow
fever, or severe bilious remittent. Of the latter, were those who had resided in Charleston, or
some other southern climate, previously."
" Col. Blanding's case was similar to that of R. (Valiant), stated by me in a letter to Doctor
Strobel, to which I refer you. R. was in command of the vessel, anchored for several weeks off
the point of Sullivan's Island^ and he had not been to the city for some time. The second offi-
cer of this vessel was brought into hospital before R. died, with well-marked yellow fever.
Neither had been in the city for some time ; they were natives of Massachusetts, and were afraid
of the summer months — so much so, that R.'s brother had obtained leave of absence to go north
by the first of June. Not a single stranger who composed the crew of that vessel escaped ; for-
tunately R. was the only death."
" These circumstances will account for Mr. Graham's attack. He would have been sick if he
had not visited the city. He was exposed to the same atmosphere at the fort that the others
were who had the disease, and who had not been off the island for weeks. Captain Bowman
had not been as far as the episcopal church for several weeks before his attack. Davis's family
occupied a small house on the northeast corner of the fort square (parade on the back beach) ;
all suffered with the same form of the disease that Colonel Blanding did. Recovered."
Dr. Lebby says : "I have seen, during my professional career, a large amount of fever; and I
must confess I have seen, as yet, not a solitary instance of yellow fever which has induced me
to regard it as contagious. On the contrary, from personal observation and experience, I am a
decided believer in the non-contagiousness of yellow fever."
It appears that Mr. Graham, mentioned above, resided on the lower floors of the fort bar-
racks, which floors are always insalubrious and wholly unfit for quarters. Deceruber 13, 1853,
I officially reported these quarters on the lower floor as unfit for use, on account of their insa-
lubrity, and they ought never to be occupied. It is more reasonable to suppose that Mr. Gra-
ham contracted the fever in his quarters tlian during a short visit to the city; at any rate, the
quarters occupied by him, with all others on the ground-floor, are decidedly iinhealthy. Davis's
family suffered from severe fever, the locality being evidently iinhcalthy. This very district
suffered from yellow fever in 1824 and 1827, and we may add 1795, 1802, and 1852.
1850 was an epidemic year, though yellow fever did not prevail. This has been sufficiently
treated of.
1852. — The yellow fever of this year needs no further remark, except in so far as relates to
the ditch which Dr. Simons speaks of in treating of the yellow fever of 1824. This fever of
1824 was much less in the garrison than in other parts of Sullivan's Island; affected the troops
but partially, and the cases among them were not malignant, as has been already shown. It
may be that offal was thrown into this ditch — and it was certainly a very strange proceeding, if
this was allowed — but we have no means of ascertaining, unless one is j^ermitted to judge of
the cause by the effect. This ditch has been accused of high crimes and misdemeanors, accord-
ing to men's fancies, and often unjustly. In 1850, it could not have been the culprit ; for tlie
epidemic held oft' from the garrison in a remarkable manner, from fort and parade, for many
days after the disease had become general over the island, as has been previously mentioned.
Some persons attempted to get up the same ideas in 1852; but the ditch was never cleaner than
246
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
during this summer, owing to the heavy rains, whicli swept out everj'thing from the ditch to
the back beach, like tlie rush of waters in the Mississippi. There are living witnesses to this
fact. Again: tlie side of the parade on this ditch was not the most sickly, but the side oppo-
site was by far the most unhealtliy ; nor can the ditch be considered the cause of yellow fever
at the steamboat-landing on the west, and near the Moultrie House on the east, nor of the
universal bilious fever whicli ]ir(?railed. These accusations are "for Buncombe."
But we will admit everything that is wished and asked; that the ditch was filthy, and that
the malaria generated from it was the cause of the pestilence. What does this prove? Simply,
that the post and island are not beyond the "northern limits"' of yellow fever.
The year 1852 was a sickly one. Cholera prevailed to sucli an extent in the city and vicinity,
after the yellow fever had ceased, that at one time it might be considered epidemic.
"December 5. Colds and coughs prevail a good deal on Sullivan's Island, and there is soTue
dysentery. ' '
"December 12. Colds and coughs arc prevalent; and, taking tlic whole country together,
there is an epidemic influenza."
"December 26. Since the 21st it has been rainy and foggy, cold and warm. Tlie last three
days have been warm, the weather unpleasant, and the dampness excessive. There is some
cholera in town ; in consequence of which, I officially recommended (December 24) that none
of the men should be permitted to spend the night there."
The cholera extended into the next year (1853); for, January 1 : "The weather has generally
been warm and damp, with frequent fogs. There has been a good deal of cholera in town; so
much, that some alarm is exhibited."
"January 9. Tlie weather lias been colder during the past week than before, the thermome-
ter having been as low as 36°. This seems to have had a favorable effect upon the cholera in
Charleston. In the week before last, there were 22 deaths reported from cholera; last week, 23
deaths — 10 white, and 13 blacks. There lias been a good deal of alarm; country people have
left, and some of the medical students at the college 'ingloriously fled.' "
"January 15. Occurred the only case of real cholera on Sullivan's Island — an old negro.
The stage of collapse is fully formed, and his condition is considered hazardous." llecovered.
"During this time diarrhoea has been prevalent, especially among the blacks of Sullivan's
Island ; showing that there was a disposition to the same type of disease as prevailed in Charles-
ton."
A brief account of the diseases in 1853 will be given.
Abstract of the quarterly rejjoi-ts of sick for the year 1853. — Officers and men.
Jan
Feb.
Mar.
Apr.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Total.
Deaths.
Aggregate
strength.
89
91
92
74
83
53
42
44
47
49
54
718
DISEASES.
1
1
2
4
G
2
2
59
3
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1 ....
6 5
1
5
6
6
5
3
5
8
6
....
1
Total
6
7.
7
11 1 e
6
5
5
6
10
6
....
75
1
Average mean etrengtli for the year ; Ofticers, (i.54 ; enlisted men, 58.72 : total, G5. 27.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
247
One died in August of clironic bronchitis, one discharged in October, and seventy-tbree re-
turned to duty.
The old garrison loft the ])0st on the 18th of November ; hence, the month of December is not
included, in order to show the effect of residence in producing climatic disease.
Women, children, servants, &c.
Months
Jan.
Feb.
Mar.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Total.
Deaths.
Aggregate
strenglli.
Mean stkengtii
73
72
71
77
75
63
63
62
60
55
55
37
763
DISEASES.
Kebris continue. - . ---
1
2
1
i
1
2
17
20
3
90
Fchris Intermittens quotidiana
1
1
1
5
Fcbris rcmittcns
9
3
3
3
1
R
Diarrhoea
1
2
2
1
3
3
2
----
Dyeentciia acuta
2
6
All others . -
15
IG
8
10
12
7
1
4
12
6
7
6
1
1
Total -
8
18
20«
5
6
13
15
11
9 fi
137
1
Average mean strength for the year, 63.58.
All women, children, &c., who came from Florida with the 1st artillery, in December, are
excluded ; only the more permanent residents of the garrison being included, in order to show
the effect of residence in producing climatic disease.
From the foregoing tables, we find that the troops suffered from all diseases in nearly the pro-
portion of 1,14 cases to 1 person, or every officer and man was sick, on an average, once in the
year, and 10 of them were sick twice ; and if we take, instead of the average mean strength, the
greatest absolute number present in any one month^ there will be only 1 sick in about 1.25;
whereas every woman, cliild, servant, &c., was sick nearly 2.17 times in the year, taking the
average mean strength; and, taking the greatest number of persons, 1.75 times during the
year. There is still greater difference when we consider climatic diseases, for we find only 16
cases, or about 1 case in 4 persons, among the troops during the year ; while among the women,
children, &c., in the same period of time, there were no less than 47 cases, or about 3 cases to
every 4 persons. It is also to be recollected that 1853 was one of the most healthy years known,
and, although diarrhoea was pretty common, there does not apjiear to have been a single case
of cholera infantum recorded — an unusual circumstance, though the disease was on the island.
I lost a little patient in August with malignant cholera infantum, east of the fort, between it
and the Moultrie House, on Middle street ; and there were a good many other cases of the
disease. I have often regretted that a record of this kind had not been kept from 1850 ; for the
difference between the two classes, the regular soldier and non-military persons, would have
been much greater than it now appears to be.
In 2)roofof the great salubrity of Fort Moultrie and Sullivan's Island, it is common to refer to
the Army Medical Statistics, p. 201, from which it appears that the annual ratio of mortality in
Charleston harbor (Forts Moultrie, Pinckney, and Johnson) is 2.60 per cent. During the
same period, the annual mortality of Fort Moultrie was 3 per cent. It must be recollected that
these are just what they are intended to be — statistics of picked men. From them are excluded
tlie old, the young females, and invalids; and no one is permitted to enter the service but
" One cliild died in May, of convulsions.
248 BEPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
the strongest and most healthy, for obvious reasons. As statistics of strong men for active ser-
vice, being also the first of a series, they are valuable; but, as general vital statistics, showing
the salubrity of a country, and detailing facts connected with the health, longevity, mortality,
and consequent prosperity of all classes of citizens, they are of no value whatever.
As 1853 was generally healthy, but few remarks in relation to the diseases of the year are
required.
Fevers were more prevalent in April and May than in the usual fever months of August,
September, and October. The very great rains in 1852, from May to September, had saturated
the earth ; there had been considerable winter rain, and the last half of April and almost the
whole of May were hot and dry ; the action of the sun on the porous and sandy soil produced
disease. A few brief remarks may not be uninteresting.
Family of Captain E , northwest of Fort Moultrie, on Cove street. April 19th, a
colored girl taken; May 5, a colored child taken; and May 12, son — all with remittent fever.
None of them had been from the island.
Family of Major H , northwest of the fort, in Cove street. Mrs. H. taken April 25tli ;
an Irish servant girl on the same day ; Major H. on tlie 2Gtli — all with remittent fever. Not
one of them had been from the island.
Family of Captain P , west of the fort, in Middle street. Mrs. P. taken with tertian
intermittent, April 26 ; one son, April 30 ; two sons. May 1 ; and a fourth son, May 4th — all
with remittent. Two of them were attacked the second time on the 14th of May. Not one of
these persons had slept away from Sullivan's Island for two years.
One ju'ivate of the garrison taken Ajnil 11th; one, A])ril 26th; one, May 18th; all of remit-
tent.
Sergeant Kiley's child, on the east side of the fort parade^ taken with remittent fever on tlie
3d of May.
Sergeant Williams's child, on the west side of the parade, was taken with remittent fever on
the 5th of May.
Eleanor Brassard, daughter of Private Brassard, on the west side of the parade, was taken
with continued fever on the 31st of May. None of the last three had been to town or from the
island.
Variola, owing to tlie universal neglect of vaccination, prevailed to a considerable extent in
Charleston during tlie winter of 1853-'4, but there were no cases of the disease on Sullivan's
Island. The universal neglect of vaccination in the country, and even in the city, is astonish-
ing. From this epidemic there appears to be no reason for distrusting the preservative powers
of the vaccine disease; but, on the contrary, our faith in it should be confirmed. No doubt, the
operation is often performed with bad matter. In the last part of the winter^ I revaccinated a
lady, by request, whose husband had formerly studied and practised medicine, and subsequently
became a preacher; great irritation and inflammation came on; the axillary glands were
swollen; there was fever; and considerable pus formed at the point of operation, which the
husband, the ex-doctor, pronounced to be genuine vaccine matter ; and I verily believe that he
would have attem]ited to propagate the disease, had a chance presented. It is important that
every one should lie vaccinated; and it is more important, jierhaps, that good matter should be
employed. In revaccinating in this particular year, more local irritation supervened than I
have ever before known. No reason can be given, but such is the fact; while the real vaccine
disease went its course as usual.
Other eruptive fevers were not imcommon in Charleston, as measles and scarlatina, but none
of them made their appearance on Sullivan's Island.
Having given an abstract of the climate of Sullivan's Island from 1849 to 1853, inclusive,
particularly of the summer climate, we will proceed to a few remarks on the diseases.
"Fevers are the proper endemics of Carolina, and occur oftener than any, probably than all,
other diseases. These are the effects of its warm, moist climate, of its low grounds, and stag-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 249
naiit waters. In tlieir mildest season, they assume the type of intermittents; in their next
grade, they are bilious remittents; and, under particular circumstances, in their highest grade,
constitute yellow fever." — Dr. Ramsay, Hist. S. C, vol. 2, p. 97.
We have known almost all kinds of fever to originate on Sullivan's Island — intermittent,
remittent, congestive, and yellow fever ; but the most usual form of fever is the common bil-
ious remittent. Not a summer passes without it, more or less ; sometimes it is mild, at others
severe. Fevers are so common on the east end of the island, that tliis locality is considered
unhealthy.
Cholera infantum is indigenous, as might be expected from the proximity of the island to the
city of Charleston, in the low country, and in a hot climate, with a humid atmosphere and
high dew-point. The effect of change in this disease is wonderful, not in the acute stage, but
when it has become chronic to a certain extent. Children who have had the complaint
in the city are frequently sent to the island to recover their health and strength, and the
benefit derived from the change is often surprising; on the other hand, when the acute stage
of the disease has been spent on the island, we have been anxiuus that a change should be
made to Buncombe, the north, or even to Charleston. We have known little patients to im-
prove greatly by a removal to Charleston, the strong and damp winds of the Lsland appearing
to disagree with them. Change, of almost any kind, seems to work wonders in the chronic
state of this disease.
Chronic diarrhcea and dysentery, in adults or children, are serious complaints in summer,
either in the city or on the island, and such patients should have a change of climate without
delay.
Sullivan's Island is an improper residence for persons affected with chronic bronchitis or
phthisis pulmonalis. In summer, it is too hot, and the winds are too bleak and damp; and in
winter, the cold and strong winds render it a very unadvisable resort.
Asthma : this singular complaint is often greatly benefited by an island residence, and the
winter often agrees with persons having it. Instances have occurred of persons having the
disease being able to reside here comfortably in summer, who were forced to remove as the
winter winds came on. Others cannot reside here comfortably at all.
Chronic rheumatism and neuralgic pains are not often benefited by a residence on the island,
but the contrary. The climate, both winter and summer, is too severe for persons afllicted with
these complaints, and I have known such patients obliged to leave the island after a residence
of a few days.
Vermes are more common among children than in any part of the United States in which I
have practised medicine. The long round worm (ascaris lumbricoides) is referred to. The best
remedy I have found is termed the German icorm poxvder, sold by some of the apothecaries in
Charleston. Spigelia Marilandica has always been inert.
Boils, whitlows, carbuncles, and all sorts of abscesses and eruptions, are remarkably com-
mon. This is said to be the case in Charleston. These are sujiposed to be owing to the long-
continued summer heat, though many consider the stimulation of sea-bathing to be a prominent
cause.
Persons in a state of debility from attacks of almost any acute disease, as fever, cholera in-
fantum, dysentery, &c., often come from Charleston to the island, and recover their strength
and appetite in a short time ; and those who suffer from the same diseases on the island are
equally benefited by a change to the upper country, as already stated under the head of cholera
infantum.
From the situation and physical characteristics of the country around Charleston, including
Sullivan's Island, the summer climate must be enervating, and most persons would improve by
annually spending July and August in a more elevated region.
6. 96 32
250
REPORT ON THK SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
DISEASES.
In examining the following statistical tables, which have been cominled from abstract No. 1
of this division, being tliat ibr the South Atlantic Region, the fact that the troops stationed in
Charleston harbor constituted the greater proportion of the army serving in that region, and
that, therelbre, the results are mainly applicable to that locality, should be remembered.
In this connexion, particular reference is made to the high ratio of cases of phthisis pulmo-
nalis exhibited in the table of diseases of the resjiiratory system. The original records have
been re-examined in this particular, and are correctly transcribed. The cases are referred to,
and not the deaths ; for the reason, that soldiers afflicted with this disease, who have i'riends and
a home to go to, often solicit and obtain their discharge from the service. The statistics
corroborate the statement of Surgeon Porter, that "Sullivan's Island is an improper residence
for persons affected with chronic bronchitis or jihthisis pulmonalis." How much is this result
due to the "hot climate, humid atmosphere, and high dew-point f"
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean Btrengtb.
Number treated.
Deaths.
Ratio per 1,000 of mean btrenoth.
Treated.
Died.
2,772
2,875
2,736
2,818
1,289
1,575
2,362
1,644
6
15
16
21
465
547
863
583
2
5.2
6
Fourth ciiiarter .....__
•
7.4
Aniiua.1 ratio -- ......
2,800
6,870
58
2,453
20 7
It appears from this table that the average proportion of cases treated, to the number of men,
is 2.45 to 1, annually; and that the corresponding ratio of deaths is 1 to 48, or about 2 per
cent. The proportion of cases treated, to the number of troops, is 1 to 118, or 0.84 per cent.
Exclusive of yellow fever, the annual ratio of deaths to the mean strength of the forces is 1 to
53, or 1.9 per cent.
FEVERS.
FIRST.
SECOND.
TniKD.
TEAE.
■£
ii
!
£
S 5P
Strenffth -
2,772
2,875
2,736
2,818
2,800
^i
Diseases,
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
a
■So
Febris continua communis
Febris intermittens quoticliana..
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittenB qiiartana...
7
13
53
16
9
1
99
44
39
34
10
31
2
3
1
1
15
73
64
9
164
14
5
1
1
3
14
21
70
17
61
4
32
2
4
80
146
221
52
265
21
40
1
1
5
3
5
1 in 80
1 in 146
Oin 221
Oin 52
lin 53
1 in 7
1 in 8
28
60
79
18
94
Ffbrifi tvnhus. -
7
Febris typhus icterodes
14
Total
163
1 i
2 .'54.4 7
2I9 1 fi
825
15
1 in 75
?94
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
251
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM,
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FODRTH.
TEAR.
Proportion of deaths to
cases.
-" -5
Is
2,
772
2,
375
2,736
2,
318
2,800
c S
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
•i o
c
C3
Cholera Asiatica
49
29
5
3
2
30
62
1
204
101
4
2
60
121
2
1
320
78
6
1
95
196
2
1
1
203
57
10
1
1
1
78
86
2
2
1
776
2e5
25
6
3
2
253
465
6
3
1
1
2
1 in 129
in 265
lin 8
1 in 6
in 3
lin 2
in 253
1 in 232
277
94
Dysenteria chronica
9
2
1
Hepatitis chronica
Obstipatio ...... .-
0.7
90
All other diseases of this
166
Total
180
1
482
3
696
4
437
5
1795
13
1 in 138
641
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
YEAR.
O
OQ
cd
a>
•a
:i
c
c
c
o
i
^5
1=
2,772
2,
875
2,
736
2,818
2,800
i!
-si
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths
Cases.
Deaths.
Bronchitis acuta et chronica
8
291
2
9
2
2
1
7
165
8
11
3
6
1
1
4
307
8
3
3
3
2
16
212
8
6
4
2
3
1
35
975
26
29
12
12
2
5
2
1 in 17
in 975
1 in 5
in 29
in 12
1 in 6
12
348
Phthisis pulmonalis
9.2
10
Pnpiimnnin.
4
All other diseases of this
system
4
Total
314
1
199
2
328
2
248
4
1089
9
1 in 121
389
75
83
•
76
70
304 n
m 304
108
The quarterly reports of sick are without special remarks of interest, except those which are
embraced in the very elaborate report of Surgeon Porter, above given.
The influenza, noted as prevalent in 1843 in every region yet considered, appeared at Forts
Moultrie and Johnston, and Oglethorpe Barracks, in August of that year. At the post last
named, it remained till some time in September.
252 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
SOUTH INTERIOR REGION, No. 1.
The region design.ated as the Soulli Interior, No. 1, embraces that portion of the territory of
the United States wliicli is occupied by the States of Georgia, Ahxbama, Mississippi, and Lou-
isiana. The principal military stations are Fort Jesup, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans Bar-
racks, Forts Pike and Wood, and Mount Vernon and Augusta Arsenals.
MEDICAL TOPOGKAPHT AND DISEASES OF FORT JESUP.
By Surgeon P. H. Craig: 1839.
This post is in about latitude 31, longitude 17 west of Washington city, on the dividing-ridge
of the waters of Red river and the Sabine, and equi-distant from each, being about 25 miles,
and 100 miles due north of the Gulf of Mexico; the ridge, or high land, has a bearing of a
north and south course; tlie streams on the north, or northeast side of the ridge, mostly empty
into the Spanish Lake; its nearest point being about 12 miles north of Jesup ; the lake disem-
bogues into tlie Red river 8 or 10 miles above Natchitoches. There are other streams heading
southeast of the post that fall into the Red river some distance below Natchitoches. All the
streams on the Sabine valley side drain directly into the Sabine; there being no lakes, ponds,
or marshes intervening.
The elevation of the site of the post above the low lands, lakes, and rivers, has never beea
ascertained, but must be considerable, as the water is very rapidly carried off.
The face or aspect of the country, on both sides of the ridge, is rolling and broken ; some of
the creeks have small bodies of good land bordering on them, of a stiff black clayey soil; and
the hills, a poor thin gray sandy soil, and a hard red clay-bottom or sub-soil. There are but
few mineral i^roductions discoverable: a kind of limestone is found in places in detached masses,
a considerable quantity of which has been procured for building ; the nearest quarry is within
half a mile of the post, in a due east course.
Pine is the most abundant timber ; the high lands are covered with it ; having oak and
hickory thinly intermixed. On the creek bottoms, beech, red and black gum, sassafras, mul-
berry, and occasionally cypress, form the growth.
The summer usually commences about the 1st of May, and continues until the last of Sep-
tember. The days are very hot from 10 o'clock until sunset ; the thermometer generally ranging
from 76 to 90 and 96 ; the nights are often cool and comiortable, having generally a refreshing
breeze from the south and southwest, in the direction of the Gulf and Bay, nearly every evening
after 9 or 10 o'clock. The rainy season commonly begins in the month of Februarj^, and con-
tinues until the first or middle of May, with intermission.
The winter season is variable, often rainy, and frequently changing from cold to warm,
sometimes causing a thermometrical difference of 20 degrees or more in the course of the day.
The summer months always produce most disease, particularly during August and September.
The post is not distinguished by the prevalence of any particular disease. The most frequent
are inflammatory, remittent, intermittent, and catarrhal fevers, dysentery, and diarrhoea. Most
of the diseases require active treatment at the onset.
The barracks are built on the ridge, about thirty yards from the summit-level, and on the
Sabine valley side of the ridge; their position is on a line ranging a very little from east and
west, and facing nearly north and south. The buildings are probably more exposed to the
northeast and southwest winds, but are so situated as to receive breezes from all points of the
compass. The new barracks were commenced in 1837, and finished about two months since.
There being four companies, each company has two large rooms, 50 feet long by 30 wide; 12
feet high to the ceiling, with a passage of 12 feet between the rooms; porches, or galleries, on
AMONG THL TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 253
the front and rear, well raised from the ground on stone pillars. Pine is the principal timber
used in the construction of the barracks, and consists of large square logs, very neatly fitted
together ; the ends of the buildings weather-boarded ; the sides well protected from the weather
by porches 12 feet wide. Tlie buildings are dry and well constructed for ventilation, having
eight large windows in each room, four on each side ; large doors opening into the passage ; the
blocks are 20 feet apart.
The hospital is about 60 yards west of the quarters, aod nearly parallel to them, on ground
a little lower than the site of the barracks, erected in the winter of 1829-'30, and consists of two
rooms, 25 by 15 feet, built of pine logs, in a very rough manner; the whole building is in a
ruinous and decayed condition, being very ill constructed and badly located ; being very near
all the buildings appertaining to the quartermaster's department, viz: stables, blacksmith's
shops, saw-pits, &c., &c„
No endemic disease has at any time prevailed at the post since its establishment in 1822.
The officers' quarters are old buildings, erected by General Taylor in 1822 ; they have the
same exposure as the barracks.*
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF BATON ROUGE BARRACKS.
By Surgeon Benjamin F. Harney : 1810.
Baton Rouge is situated on the east bank of the Mississippi river, in north lat. 30° 36', long,
west of Washington 14° 28', and on the first high land or bluff found in ascending the river,
and at that jjoint where the artificial embankment or "levee" terminates.
The bluff on which the barracks are situated is about 22| feet above high-water, and about 55
or 60 feet above low-water mark. It is about 50 or 60 feet above the level of the Lakes Maure-
pas and Pontchartrain, which lie in a southeast direction, and are distant, the former 35 or 40,
and the latter 45 or 50 miles.
The public grounds are bounded on the north by a bayou, which empties into the river imme-
diately above (175 or 200 yards) the barracks; on the east by private property (lots); on the
south by the village of Baton Rouge ; and on the west by the river.
The nearest marsh or swamp is a cypress swamp, distant 15 miles north. The bayou form-
ing the north boundary is filled to a greater or less extent from the river, from the 1st of Febru-
ary to the 1st of August of each year.
It might be supposed (and plausibly) that, as the water retired from the bayou, deposils would
take place, of such a nature as would be productive of disease. But experience has proven the
reverse; for as soon as the annual fall of the Mississippi commences, the "rainy season" also
begins, and the bayou is thoroughly washed, and the deposits, that might be a source of disease,
are carried by the stream to the river. It also lies in a direction from whence we have no winds
during the sickly season.
The public grounds are undulating, and well drained ; the bayou above mentioned draining
them into the Mississippi, and other bayous conveying water from these grounds, the villao-e,
and the whole parish, into Lake Maurepas. The country lying on the same side of the river
with this station, and north and east, is undulating, and naturally well drained; tliat lyiu"- to
the south, together with all west of the river, is formed of a rich alluvial deposit, level, but
susceptible of draining by means of "levees," bayous, ditches, &c. There are no mineral pro-
ductions.
The post has never been furnished with barometer or hygrometer, and but little knowledge
can be derived from observations on the thermometer. A lew degrees of heat, more or less,
being, "casteris paribus," of no consequence.
1 During a portion of the year 1844-'45, troops were assembled at a point about three miles from Natchitoches, and
two miles from the immediate banks of Red river. The position was named "Camp Salubrity," being on an elevated
sand-ridge, abundantly supplied with excellent spring-water, .lud surrounded with pine, oak, and hickory woods. C.
254 REPOET ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
The winds from April to October, inclusive, are generally from the south, southwest, and
west; and from November to March, inclusive, from southeast, east, and latterly from the
northwest. The former winds are from the Gulf of Mexico, and mostly over a prairie country
interspersed with woodland, bayous, &c. Winds from an easterly direction, in autumn, pro-
duce derangement of the bowels, remittent f^ver, &c., to a greater or less extent. The sickly
season (properly so called) commences about the 1st of August, owing to the causes producing
decomposition, &c. The diseases are mostly bilious intermittent, and remittent fever, and tend
to a typhoid character. The remedies, for the most part, consist of mercurial cathartics, &c.,
&c. The liver is in fault in these cases.
The barracks were completed in 1824, and are situated on the bluif on the bank of the river,
between the village and the bayou mentioned as forming the north boundary of the public
grounds ; are constructed of brick, and have slate roofs ; all of the best material and good
workmanship.
They were originally of pentagonal form ; but the building forming the side parallel to the
river, and intended for the quartermaster's and commissary's departments, being of bad mate-
rial, and worse workmanship, has been removed. This, fortunately, leaves open the angle next
the river, and affords a finer view and better ventilation than if the original plan had been
preserved.
The galleries, fronting inward and outward, are 10 feet in width, and well shaded at all times
by china, mulberry trees, &c. These trees were planted in 1824, and are supposed to have
contributed in a great degree to the preservation of the health of the garrison since that time.
Trees are planted in various parts of the public grounds, particularly in that part between the
village and the barracks, and in the ordnance department.
The rooms of the barracks are large, well ventilated, and altogether very comfortable and
neat. The hospital is placed about 120 yards southeast of the barracks, fronting east and west,
and surrounded by a gallery 10 feet in width. It is airy, and well constructed for ventilation.
No endemic disease has ever prevailed here.
The yellow fever was first known here in 181T; then in the years 1819, 1822, and 1827.
There were many cases of yellow fever m 1829, but these were confined to the European Spaniards
driven from Mexico. These cases were owing to their mode of living, their filth, and to their
being much crowded in the buildings they occupied; and, being unacclimated, they were espe-
cially obnoxious to disease, and they alone (with only three or four exceptions) suffered there-
from.
The soldiery suffered in 1821 and in 1823, without assignable cause, from a disease called the
"cold plague ;" during these years the village was free from the disease. It has not been known
here since 1823. This disease prevailed in the month of May, and jjart of June, in each year.
The symptoms were vet-y similar to those of cholera, and were treated with mercurial cathartics
in very large doses, warm bath, sinapisms, &c. The causes of general sickness in 1821, 1822,
and 1823, were exposure while at work on the barracks (then building), intemperance, and labor
in the cypress swamp, some fifteen miles from this, in procuring timber.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY OF NEW ORLEANS BARRACKS.
By Surgeon H. L. Hawkins, U. S. A.: 1839. (Extracts.)
The city of New Orleans is situated on the left bank of the Mississippi river, distant 105
miles by the channel from its mouth, and 80 miles in a southeast course. It is 50 miles from
the Gulf of Mexico, south; 40 miles from Chandeleur bay, southeast; 15 miles from Lake
Borgne, east; and 6 miles from Lake Pontchartrain, north. There are no hills in the vicinity,
the city being built on an inclined plane, descending gently from the river to the lakes. When
the river is full, the streets are three or four feet below its surface. Inundations are prevented
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 255
by a dyke, or levee, which has been made from the Balize to the highlands about Baton Rouge,
on the east, and to Point Coupee, 1 miles above Natchez, on the west side of the river. The
well-water of the city is not used either for washing or for culinary purposes, as it contains the
muriates of lime, magnesia, and soda, and the bi-carbonate of lime, and also iron. Eain and
river-water are consequently used by all.
The barracks are situated three and a half miles below the city proper, on the same side of
the river. They were erected in 1834 and 1835, and form a parallelogram of about 300 feet on
the river, extending back about 900 feet. The quarters, built of granite and brick, are com-
modious, dry, and well ventilated. They are sheltered from the N. and N.E. winds by a forest
of cypress, which, commencing about .500 yards from the river, extends back towards Lake Pont-
chartrain. The grounds within the parallelogram have been raised thirty inches with earth
covered with shells, and, being traversed by ditches, are kept dry.
The S.W. and S.E. winds prevail during the five months from April to August, and the
N.E. in September. It is to be remarked that the E.N.E. and S.E. winds come from the Gulf
of Mexico, over an immense tract of low swamps, and that the prevalence of N. and E. winds in
July, August, and September, is always attended with the epidemic yellow fever. In fact,
these three months are the only ones that can be considered as proper seasons of disease — that
is, the cause of epidemic yellow fever is produced during those months. Its ravages may, and
do, extend into October ; but when there has been no ejiidemic during August and September,
strangers are not as liable to disease in October. It has also been remarked, that during an
epidemic — for example, in September — if the wind prevails steadily for a few days from the S.W.
or W., the disease seems to be checked, fewer new cases occur, and those who are sick recover
more readily. If, after this state of things, the wind shifts around again to the N.E., the dis-
ease resumes its virulence, cases occur more frequently, and those who are convalescent are
suddenly thrown back and frequently succumb. The yellow fever of this climate, then, may
be traced to the following combined causes : 1. Low stage of water in the river, leaving its
banks, with the deposits brought from the upper country, exposed to the action of the sun;
2. Decomposition of vegetable matter in the swamps in the rear of the city; and, 3. The preva-
lence of E. and N.E. winds. These winds come not only loaded with miasmata from the
swamps which they traverse, but are cold, and tend to produce chills, rendering the system more
liable to be impressed with other causes incident to the climate, such as sutlden alternations from
cold showers to a burning sun. In confirmation of this opinion, it is remarked that a contrary
state of things — to wit, high stage of water in the river, and the prevalence of S.W. and W.
winds — are not attended with epidemic fever.
FORTS PIKE AND WOOD.
Fort Pike is situated on the island of Petites Coquilles, which, as its name imports, seems to
have been originally formed of a congeries of small shells, witli an admixture of earttiy deposit,
based upon a substratum of argillaceous earth, rendered black or blue by the oxide of iron.
The fort is situated on the northern margin of this alluvial island, which divides Lake Borgne
from Lake Pontchartrain, the waters of which communicate by means of the Passes Eigolets and
Chef-Menteur. The island, according to Assistant Surgeon De Leon, is about nine miles long,
and from two to four miles wide. It is about 34 miles northeast from New Orleans; from 12 to
14 miles north by west from Fort Wood, and 22 miles north from the Mississippi river. The
island is intersected with tortuous bayous resembling artificial canals. As their beds are never
exposed to solar action, being under the influence of the tides, they are at no time a source of
miasmata. The natural elevation of the surface of the island nowhere exceeds two feet. The
soil is fertile, being well adapted for the cultivation of vegetables. In the summer, the pre-
vailing wind is from the Gulf of Mexico. This tropical east wind prevails with such constancy,
256
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
that the trees on the shores of the lakes and Gulf have acquired an inclination from the sea,
sujiposcd to be the effect of its continued action at a ]icriod when their j^rowth is most rapid.
Fort Wood is situated on the west side of the Pass Chef-Menteur, the southern houndary of
the island of Petites Coquilles. It is surrounded hy marshy, low lands, and is under the influ-
ence of the immense swamps that skirt the Mississippi.
MOUNT VERNON AND AUGUSTA ARSENALS.
Mount Vernon Arsenal, near Mobile river, is about thirty-two miles north of Mobile. The
post has a local elevation of about two hundred feet above a small branch of the river, called
Coon creek. The position, according to Assistant Surgeon W. E. Fullwood, is most liappily
chosen; the water is excellent, and it is free from the malarious diseases of the south.
Augusta Arsenal, situated about three miles from the city of Augusta, occupies a high and
dry position among the " sand-hills." It is distant about 130 miles from the ocean, and is
elevated, it is estimated, about COO feet above its level. The nearest point of the Savannali
river is two miles. The surrounding country presents no marshes or lakes. The locality has
an elevation of about two hundred i'eet above that of Augusta; and, as the soil is hiird, dry,
and sandy, and the physical aspect of the surrounding country exhibits a succession of hills
and sloping valleys, the most favorable natural circumstances obtain to facilitate drainage.
The soil is rather unproductive. Culinary vegetables are very inferior in size and qualitj'.
Some varieties of fruit, however, such as the apple, plum, peach, and watermelon, are very
abundant, attain a large growth, and are finely flavored. The forest-trees consist chiefly of
different species of the genera quercus, pinus, carya, juglans, and diospyros.
DISEASES.
The following table, compiled from abstract No. 2 of this division, gives the aggregate
amount of sickness and mortality in this region.
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
KATIO PER 1,000 or UEAH STRENeTH.
Treated.
Died.
6,425
6,439
5,583
5,228
3,780
5,406.
5,053
3,272
39
40
91
84
588
839
905
625
6
6
16
16
5,919
17,511
254
2,958
43
17,426
234
2,944
39. 5
It appears from the foregoing data that the average annual number of cases of disease to the
number of officers and enlisted men in this region was 2.95 to 1; that the corresponding ratio
of deaths was 1 to 23.30, or 4.3 per cent. ; and that the proportion of deaths to the number
of cases treated was 1 to 68.94, or 1.45 per cent. Exclusive of cholera, the deaths were 1 in
25.29, or 3.9 per cent.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
257
FEVERS.
Quarters -
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
YEAR.
o
1
•a
"s i
§ g
■£
%.
S
Strength
6,
425
G,
439
5,
583
5,
228
5,
919
a; »
= 3
a §
o a
•§'3
a
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deatlis.
Cases.
Deaths.
1
5
212
407
2
43
4
674
1
1
1
9
242
498
15
123
2
1
1
36
61
549
464
33
180
2
118
5
1
1
38
5
4
283
264
20
86
4
74
4
1
6
25
42
79
1286
1633
70
432
12
192
10
1
1
7
3
63
1 in 4
lin 79
1 in 1286
in 1633
Oin 70
lin 61
lin 4
lin 3
7
FebriB continua communis
Febris intermittens quotidiana.
Fcbris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana . .
Febris remittens ....._-......
13
217
275
12
73
Febris typbus- - ----
2
Febris typbus icterodes
32
Total
3
889
2
1443
45
740
35
3746
85
lin 44
633
In reference to this table, and also with regard to the consolidated abstract for this region, it
is necessary to remark, that, as a general rule, the troops stationed at New Orleans Barracks are
transferred during the sickly season to some point on the shores of the lakes or gulf. Former-
ly, Pass Christian was the place of summer encampment; but latterly, Greenwood Island, near
East Pascagoula. This will account for the small number of cases of yellow fever rejjorted,
particularly in 1853 and 1854, when that disease proved so terrible in New Orleans. Most of
the cases reported under that head, in those two years, occurred at Baton Rouge Barracks — the
small garrison of which was totally prostrated by the disease. In 1853, the troops in the sum-
mer encampment at Greenwood Island suft'ered from this epidemic, an account of which is
given in tlie following letter from Assistant Surgeon Thomas A. McParlin to the Surgeon
General, dated Camp Twiggs, East Pascagoula, Mississippi:
" Genekal: Herewith I have the honor to transmit the report of sick and wounded of this post
for the quarter ending September 30, 1853.
During the greater part of this ])eriod, the health of the troops in this, their summer quar-
ters, has been remarkably good ; and has so continued until lately, when an epidemic fever pre-
vailing has brought many under treatment in the hospital.
During July and August, when fever was desolating New Orleans, (and, in the latter month,
our neighboring village of Pascagoula claimed several subjects and victims,) it did not molest
us; and it was not until August '20th tliat any (grave) case of fever occurred in the command.
This may be attributable to our position on the island, (over which the sea-breeze sweeps for
the greater part of the day,) and to our having no connexion, by the landing of freight and
passengers, witii the infected ports of New Orleans and Mobile.
This insular position gives us the advantages of a quarantine^ as regards infection on tlie
main land. The men who visit town even, are generally absent for a short time, and are not
brought near the sick or their contagion.
As we have comparatively little timber on the island, or near us, the winds from every quar-
ter have free course around us. In this respect, we are contrasted advantageously with our
neighbors. A ride for a few hundred yards from their coast leaves you in the depths of a pine
wood, wliere the cool and strong breezes of the coast die away, and give place to sultriness and
oppression. There, also, the storm of last year — one of exceeding great violence — had pros-
s. 96 — 33
258
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
trated the trees in every direction. Tiiese rotting in the stagnant midsummer air, and after an
unu.sually icct season,* if ligneous decomposition be, as some assert, a true morbific cause,
contributed most powerfully to the ciiidemic. This storm brought over the i.sland an iniuida-
tion from the bay, and left, on its subsidence, a new stratum over the soil.
From the latter part of July, the date of the first cases at East Pascagoula, fever has spread
from house to house, in a most plain and evident manner; and, passing to tlie north, has at-
tacked also persons living some miles in the country, in the pine woods, or near the river.
All this, before it crossed over to our quarters on the island.
It has been interesting to trace the steady advance of the fever, and its invasion of house
after house, in the regular order of position. A few days after one of the early cases, in a
dwelling nearly central in the village, it manifested itself in a resident of tlie first house on
the riglit; after several cases occurred in this first household, it proceeded to tlie second on the
right; then other cases appeared in the first house on tlie left. Sinuiltauetiusly, now, cases
were occurring on the right and left; and several members of a household would be seized,
esjiecially in dwellings not separated from each other by great distances. Since that time, at
longer or shorter intervals, cases have been occurring along the line of buildings on the coast,
and in opposite directions. Cases have thus been approaching our island from the main land,
until it reached the last house near the bridge dividing us.
I may state here, that the first case of fever in the country was at the distance of three miles
from the village, in the person of a lady, yet who had not visited town during, or for weeks
preceding, the epidemic. She died of "black vomit;" as did also, a few days thereafter, a
female in a neighboring house — distant some hundred yards or more.
In August, I was myself a subject of the disease. From that time, and in September, cases
of fever of varying degrees of intensity have been under treatment at the barracks. In tlie
order of invasion, they stand as follows. I give also the "daily mean" of temperature :
AUGUST.
Date .
20.
23
26.
31.
10.
13.
14.
16.
17.
19.
21.
22.
23.
25
Temperature, Fah.
820
1
82.5
1
85
I
84.5
1
80
1
82.5
1
86.25
1
86.75
1
87.25
2
82.5
2
80
1
71
1
71
2
75
1
Seizures among the laundresses, and in private families on the island, are not included in the
enumeration above.
At the garrison — wliether from the lateness of its reaching us, or advantages arising from
local position and police — many of the ca.ses have been of a mild type from the first ; or, if
grave, readily giving way to treatment. The fever is disposed to remit at the expiration of 24
or 3G hours ; and, generally declining on the third day, leaves the patient in a state of ajiyrexia,
attended by the most complete prostration and debility. In some cases the remissions have
been slight and imperfect, and these are the more severe in their nature.
I report all the cases under "febris remittens flava," in the tabular statement, and it includes
those of the mild and malignant type. Of the latter, three cases terminated in congestion. I
have had no case at the island in which "black vomit" a2)peared. The three who died were
all of the congestive type; two of them relapsing, after 24 or 36 hours of apyrectic calm.
All the cases exhibited, in their incursion, the usual symptoms of " yellow fever;" such as
I had been made familiar with in tlie cases occurring earlier in my practice in town. From
their evident epidemical character, also, I was disposed to regard them as "yellow remittent
fever," (as termed by Dr. Chisholm, in the West Indies, and by Dr. Rush, iu our own country,)
" 10. 75 inches of rain fell during the montli of July, 1853.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHEEN DIVISION. 259
modified and made mild by influences I have before alluded to. In the vitiated air and crowded
population of New Orleans, they would doubtless have been more grave.
The cold weather prevailing from the 22d to the 25th ult. aided, if it did not induce, con-
gestive symptoms in the two fatal cases on the 2Cth and 27th of September. At the same date,
a fatal case by congestion occurred in the town of Pascagoula. The weather, indeed, lately,
has been unfavorable for those cases 'exhibiting a tendency to local engorgement and disturb-
ance, gastric or cerebral; inasmuch as the heats of the days are succeeded, soon after nightfall,
by cold winds, usually from the north.
The treatment I have employed has been chiefly a reliance upon quinine, in large and small
doses, at the inception and at the period of expected remission of the fever ; and for many valu-
able suggestions I am indebted to the experience and kindness of Dr. McCormick, U. S. A.,
at New Orleans.
If the patient were a strong and healthy subject, and the case of a sthenic type, brought to
me soon after the rigor, I exhibited 20 grs. of quinine with 30 drops of laudanum. Generally,
after the first dose of quinine, a moderate dose of castor-oil was given. If the tongue was very
foul, and indications present of bilious disturbance, it was preceded a few hours by a small dose
of the submuriate of mercury. If the tongue was of a good appearance, I gave a small dose of
oil.
As the patient approached the period of expected remission, (generally at the expiration of
24 or 3G hours,) the quinine was repeated (as above) every two or four hours, until the fever
declined. This generally ensued upon a copious and critical diaphoresis, which was by mild
means — warm baths and hot pediluvia — induced and kept up. The quinine was generally con-
tinued until 60 or 80 grains had been taken. If the fever continued after the period of remis-
sion, it was much mitigated, and most of the distressing symptoms would disappear.
On the second day, quinine and laudanum (the latter to moderate the effects of quinine upon
the head, and the irritant effect it sometimes manifests in weak stomachs) were again given at
the period of remission ; and, in some cases, the fever would cease from that time. If it went
on to the third day not much abated, or if it had been somewhat of the continued form
throughout, (as I have seen in private j^ractice,) it was of grave import, and pernicious symp-
toms would often soon appear.
Whenever the fever broke, and the stage of calm commenced, soon to eventuate in conva-
lescence or collapse, the state of the stomach had to be watched, and the strength of the patient
kept up by gentle stimulation and the use of the blandest aliments — beef, mutton, or chicken-
broths, in small quantities, and at short intervals, with especial care not to overtask or ofiend
the stomach.
Nausea and irritability of stomach, or vomiting, were combated by sinapisms to the
epigastrium, ice, and cordial tonics. These, if unchecked, and Z'W^Z on to "collapse," -re-
quired the free use of brandy with water, or as a toddy, iced champagne, with the application
of revulsives and califacients to the trunk and extremities.
Lime-water, flaxseed mucilage with lime-juice, iced drinks, pounded ice, lemonade, &c., were
very useful in allaying the sense of gastric heat and thirst. For this, also, and the restless-
ness at night, so common in this fever, I found a concentrated solution of the acetate of ammo-
nia (after a prescription by Dr. McCormick) very excellent in its effects. When I could ex-
hibit it freshly made, the carbonic acid gas was evolved in the draught, and added to its effi-
cacy, as I think. This preparation, with iced champagne, or brandy in different forms, I have
given in the stages ef "black vomit;" in some cases, with apparent relief and suspension for
several hours of this symptom.
I may state here, that I have had the pleasure of having, in private practice, one patient re-
cover after "black vomit" had continued for several hours.
The convalescence from this fever is extremely slow, and some time elapses before the patient
260
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
can return to his usual diet. In private practice, some thirty cases of fever Lave Leen under
my charge, three of whom have died witli the "hlack vomit." In the first case, I was called
in late, and tliis symptom ajjpeared in 12 hours. The patient had heen suhjocted to unusual ex-
posure and fatigue. The second case had come over from New Orleans seventeen days previous
to his seizure, and was in daily or frequent receipt of articles from that infected port. The
third occurred in the country, after the death of a neighher with the same disease.
The cases occurring in tlie command were ordered immediately to the hospital. This early
removal of the sick from the sound, gave less scope for local causes in the men's quarters to
aid an epidemic in its spread. After removal, every endeavor was made, within the first 24
hours, to procure alleviation or a perfect remission of the disease.
Those who were brought in frequent connexion witli the sick, seemed to be more usually the
subjects of the disease. I have lost one attendant in the hospital, and the steward is sick whilst
I write.
The disease first appeared among the ofiicers who were quartered in town. It next attacked
those who sat up with them, or slept there during tlieir sickness. Finally, most of the officers
being sick from this cause and others, it attacked those men of the command who came up from
the garrison and fulfilled that duty.
The neighboring places of fashionable resort in the summer — Pass Christian, Biloxi, Bay of
St. Louis, and latterly Ocean Springs — have all been visited by the epidemic. Indeed, if the
line of commerce and travel extends and conveys the epidemic, as it would appear to have done
in ascending the Mississipi)i, it is difficult to expect that, with daily communication with both
New Orleans and Mobile in a period of a most diff'usive and malignant visitation, even these
ordinarily healthful sea-side localities should escape."
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters. ,
Strength .
6,425
Deaths.
6,439
Cases. Deatlis,
5,583
Deatbs,
5,228
e^
5,919
Cases. Deaths.
Cholera Asiatica
Diarrh cea
Dysenteria acuta
Dysenteria chronica-
Enteritis
Hepatitis acuta
Hepatitis clironica.
Obstipatio
All other diseases of this
system
Total .
Exclusive of cholera.
4
372
160
14
6(
1
5
134
178
873
32
894
409
13
3
7
3
201
351
3
656
244
22
17
7
3
126
248
46
343
151
9
3
7
2
101
156
85
2265
964
58
28
22
13
562
933
20
25
12
11
3
1
1 in
1 in
I in
1 in
1 in
in
1 in
4.25
90
80
5
9
22
13
18
in 562
1 in 233
1913
18
1326
18
818
22
4930
76
4845
56
1 in 65
1 in 86
382
162
9
4
3
2
95
157
833
818
Although a comparatively small number of cases of cholera are reported in the above table,
it is well known tliat this disease prevailed to a very great extent in many parts of this region
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 2G1
in 1849 and 1850 ; and particularly in New Orleans, where it commenced in December, 1848. The
following remarks, respecting the nature, symptoms, and treatment of the epidemic cholera, as
it prevailed in New Orleans, were communicated to the Surgeon General, hy Assistant Surgeon
Charles McCormick, who wWon duty in that city, and had, therefore, extensive opportunities
for studying the disease :
" CnoLERA is characterized hy profound disorder in the vital functions, viz : innervation, circu-
lation, and respiration, attended with gastro-intestinal flux, more or less profuse, and a special
alteration in the hlood and in its circulation.
"Like fever, it has its precursory signs, its premonitory symptoms. There is a sense of
general uneasiness {malaise) ; lassitude; want of appetite; giddiness, sometimes amounting to
vertigo ; headache ; dimness of sight ; dullness of hearing ; griping or colicky pains of the stomach
and bowels; a sense of oppression, of weight, of rumbling motions of the intestines.
"In some rare cases, the period of invasion is passed over, and the patient, without any pre-
monitory symptoms, is plunged at once into collapse.
" In a vast majority of cases, however, diarrhoea is the most prominent and extensively recog-
nized 2^''^^onitori/ symptom of cholera. It comes on suddenly, without the patient having
noticed any other of the many deviations from health that may immediately have preceded it.
It is a symptom that can scarcely be overlooked, and therefore arrests the attention of the
sufferer immediately.
" Epidemic cholera has four distinctly marked stages: 1. Loose dejections; 2. Watery dis-
charges by the stomach, bowels, and skin; 3. Corpse-like coldness, and blueness of the skin,
or collapse; 4. Keaction, choleraic fever, an ataxic condition.
"The first consists of a simple looseness of the bowels, the dejections being frequent and more
or less copious and thin, the consistence decreasing with each evacuation until it arrives at the
next plainly marked stage of the disease —
"The second period. The evacuations now consist of little else than a watery fluid. With
these discharges, the thirst is always intense, and the voice begins to fail ; the stomach becomes
involved, pouring forth the same watery fluid in greater or less abundance ; the skin becomes
covered with a cold clammy sweat, at times very profuse; and ushered in with this evacuation
from the stomach, bowels, and skin, and apparently intimately connected with it, are seen the
most painfully distressing phenomena of this terrific malady — the cramps and spasms — which
cause the patient at times to writhe in agony, giving forth every expression of pain that human
torture could provoke.
"The third period follows, and consists of collapse. This seems naturally explained by the
waste of the watery portion of the blood, and the great exhaustion of the nervous system, so
intimately connected with it, and with the violent cramps and spasms. The voice has become
more feeble; the watery evacuations cease; the agony is over, for the spasms have also ceased;
and the.patient lies indifferent, apathetic, fearless, and craves only drink. The thirst continues
intense, becomes insatiable, and seems to exist in a direct ratio to the quantity of watery fluid
poured forth by the discharges, and to depend thereon. It seems to arise from an instinctive
desire, an urgent demand, to supply the waste and drainage of the system. The whole body
shrinks, the features become contracted, pointed, peculiar, (choleraic countenance ;) the patient
has a cadaverous aspect, the eyes deeply sunken in their sockets, eyeballs rolled upwards or
natural, expressing great sufi'ering or total indifference. The skin is as cold as a corpse,
clammy and moist, of a blueish hue, varying both in intensity of color and exter.t of surface it
occupies ; the hands and feet, particularly, are shrivelled, corrugated, and greatly shrunken,
having lost at least one-third of their bulk, and look as if long macerated in water, (like a
washerwoman's hands;) the pulse is scarcely discernible, or extinct, and the action of the heart
feeble; the air enters the lungs, but respiration is laborious, with a sense of sufl'ocation from the
changed condition of the blood, that prevents the full vivifying influence of the air on it; the
262 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
spissitude being such that it does not flow in the iisiisil channels, which expose so great a surface
to the action of the air tlirong]iout the minute and abundant capillaries of the lungs. (Hence,
from this olvimi.i symjitom, the name cholera aspliyxia.) Tli c yoice, enfeehled and greatly
diminished, has become husky and nearly extinct, and tlie demand i^iakes is still for cold drinks,
iced water. The patient complains of being parched, burning up, and yet the whole surface is
icy cold, and possesses an exalted sensibility; sinapisms^ blisters, &c., are loTidly complained of
as burning like fire — insupportable; even the hand of a healthy person, brought in contact with
a collapsed cholera patient, I have heard loudly complained of as burning. The tongue is cold,
broad, flat, and dry, or mucous and pasty; the abdomen retracted. In short, the whole body
has become collapsed, the patient looks more like a corpse than a living being. The blood,
changed in its character, deprived of its watery portion, no longer traverses its accustomed
rounds, but collects in the heart and veins, especially in the larger trunks, in undue quantity.
This change of place, arising from a change in the spissitude of the blood, gives rise in its turn
to other changes. There is no arterial blood ; there is no secretion, jierhaps, except that of
bile; for, as before stated, the blood has forsaken the arteries and retreated info the veins.
"Throughout all this frightful havoc of the physical frame, the mind moves calmly, clearly,
self-possessed, and begins to feel the destructive influence, or is gone (with but few exceptions)
only when the brain has ceased to be supplied with aerated blood — only when the individual is
in articulo mortis.
"The fourth stage occurs when an individual becomes collapsed and lives through it. It
is one of reaction — a state of ataxic fever, or, as Sydenham termed it, ataxia spirituum — a ner-
vous disorder ; the nervous system not having as yet recovered from the profound shock it has
had.
"The chief, constant, and most conspicuous pathological phenomena are seen in the blood.
This fluid is fundamentally changed ; it is deprived of its watery portion ; its density becomes
greatly increased ; its equilibrium throughout the entire system is destroyed ; it accumulates in
undue quantities in the right cavity of the heart, in the vena cava, in the portal and eraulgent
veins ; in fact, the whole nervous system is found turgid with this thick black coagulated blood ;
the arteries mostly empty, as also the left side of the heart.
"In twenty bodies examined a short time after death, such was constantly found to be the
condition of the blood. It was also found, on placing a quantity of it aside in a vessel until
the following morning, coagulated in every instance but one — the whole quantity in the vessel
not containing one drop of serum.
"The case mentioned as an exception was that of a woman who had been ill two weeks with
typhus fever, took the cholera during the time, and died very shortly after. In her case, on
examining the next morning the blood that had been taken from her body and set aside, it was
found all fluid, but very thick and dark — no sign of coagulation, no appearance of serum. In this
case it would seem the typhus fever had diminished the fibrin to such an extent that no coagula-
tion took place, and the cliolera had robbed the blood of its watery portion. Next in frequency
and importance to this changed condition of the blood is the change seen in the bladder ; it is
empty, no urine in it, perfectly contracted on itself to the size of a black walnut with the hull on.
The mucous surfaces all bedewed to a greater or less extent with a fluid strongly resembling
the rice-water discharges, and which turns litmus paper red, and is coagulated by nitric acid.
The gall-bladder is turgid ; the ductus choledochus usually pervious ; the liver often engorged,
the blood returning from it with difficulty, on account of the obstruction in the central organ
of the circulation; the lungs are collapsed, and usually bloodless.
"All the serous membranes are found covered witli a tenacious pasty exudation; they are
dryer than natural.
"Usually, also, the solitary glands throughout the intestinal canal are very much enlarged,
become very distinct and prominent, the surface of the intestines somewhat resembling in rough-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 263
ness a nutmeg-grater. The glands of Peyer also become, in most cases, exceedingly conspicuous
and distinct.
"The brain and spinal chord, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen, healthy; the latter looking
shrivelled and corrugated.
"The mucous membrane of the stomach and bowels offered at times widely different appear-
ances. It was seen, in some cases, intensely inflamed ; in others, white and anemic.
"Such, then, are the phenomena of this terrific malady, and such the fatal devastations it
makes upon the human frame.
" To call nothing cholera but collapse and its approach, would be on a par with disclaiming all
cases to be yellow fever. unless attended witli hemorrhage, or black vomit, — conditions nearly, if
not quite, as dangerous as collapse.
" It may be as difficult to diagnose simple diarrhoea from the loose dejections that form the first
stage of cholera, as to diagnose remittent from yellow fever. In both cases, when we know the
epidemic exists, it influences us very much in deciding all doubtful cases. In my opinion,
diarrhcea is as much the first stage of cholera as a chill is of intermittent fever.
"There is no disease milder iu its first attack — none more frightful and fatal if neglected.
Like a hay-rick on fire, at its first outset a grasp of the hand may extinguish it — neglected a
few moments, destruction is inevitable.
^^ Treatment. — It is always of great, and sometimes even of vital importance, that the patient
should be in bed. If this precept is duly attended to in the first stage, very often a simple dose
of laudanum, in a little brandy and water, or a table-spoonful of paregoric, or a dose of seven or
eight grains of camphor in a tea-spoonful of Hoflman's anodyne, joined with prudence in diet,
will prove all sufficient; but this should be trusted to only in slight attacks.
" I have usually commenced, in ordinary cases, by giving one of the following pills after each
loose evacuation, viz: R — Calomel 3 ss.; pulv: opii grs. vj. M ft: pil: No. vj.
"In this way, in the course of a few hours, you will probably liave given twent}' grains of calo-
mel and four grains of opium, which, in ordinary cases, will generally prove sufficient ; and even
in most severe cases, you will have administered as much calomel as will be necessary.
"When this has proved sufficient, the evacuations will have become far less frequent, and
changed in character, especially in consistence. In this early stage, the danger is greater the
more frequent and the thinner or more liquid and watery the stools may become. You can
continue, therefore, to give one of the calomel and opium pills after each evacuation, if of this
character, until the whole six are taken ; and, if the passages still continue, it becomes neces-
sary to continue the opium, as follows: R — Pulv: camph: grs. xij, pulv: opii grs. vj. M. ft: pil:
vj ; giving one of the pills after each evacuation. Rest in bed, fomentations or flaxseed poultices
applied to the abdomen, and mustard plasters and warm mustard foot-baths, prove also highly
beneficial.
" When the attack is sudden and severe, give 9j of calomel, and from three to four grains
of ojdum at one dose — and even, if very urgent, a« much as six or eight grains of opium.
" In all cases, when the disease comes on suddenly and violently, or progresses rapidly, it be-
comes the practitioner to adopt a vigorous course of treatment, for the second stage supervenes
ra})idly ; in all such dangerous cases, the nervous derangement is intense, as also the irritation
of the mucous membrane of the alimentary canal. At all hazards, this gastro-intestinal flux must
be arrested ; the special alteration that is abo\it taking place in the blood must, if possible, be
stopped ; for, as it progresses, the patient's danger becomes imminent — every watery evacuation
adding to his peril.
" The remedies that I have found most potent for the second stage, with the rice-ioater dis-
charges, are the various preparations of opium, camphor, Hoflman's anodyne, acetate of lead,
tannin, brandy, broths seasoned witli red pepper, carb: aramoniie, &c.
" Opium is a remedy of infinite value ; in the early stages of this disease, I consider it as nearly
indispensable. There has scarcely a prescription been given i'or this disease in any part of
264 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
the world where the disease has prevailed, in which some preparation of opium has not been
named as one of its ingredients. The almost universal consent of physicians, in all parts of the
world, is in favor of the early administration of opium; I myself have found it of i'ar more
value than any other. It can always be safely and beneficially employed by. any prudent
practitioner.
" Inasmuch as the danger of the disease depends upon the frequency and profuseness of the dis-
charges, I have found it a very safe and good practical rule to direct one grain of opium to be
given after each loose evacuation. Thus, in severe cases, the discharges being more frequent, a
large quantity of opium is taken in a given time ; and it is required, because tbe irritation is
greater.
''There are many cases, however, in which tl ere is no time to lose, and the remedies must be
given in asi'uU doses as safe at the first outset. I have given six grains of opium at tlie first dose,
in extremely hazardous cases, and with signal success ; in many followed up by the use of camphor
and Hoffman's anodyne, as follows, viz: R — Pulv: camphor: 3 j, Hoffman's anodyne, ij. M.
A tea-spoonful to be given every half hour or hour, in a little brandy and water. This is
a very valuable sedative, and i» found to favor the action of opium, and can safely be given,
when to give more opium would be imprudent. Opium has a direct tendency to tranquilize
and calm the nervous derangement so conspicuous in severe cases, beside, in a great majority
of cases, promptly arresting that most dangerous of all the phenomena of cholera — the gastro-
intestinal flux. But the moment the watery discharges cease, opium is capable of doing, and
has doubtless done, sad mischief; during collapse, its administration is fraught with danger,
even in small quantities ; and in large, it is eminently jierilous and should not be given. It
must also be used sparingly, and with great caution, during the ataxic period following
collapse.
"I have combined the calomel with the opium, with a view to its laxative efiects, and find less
costiveness following this treatment than where the calomel has been omitted.
"In the second stage, where the vatery evacuations set in, I have derived great benefit by
combining acetate of lead with the opium, and also from the use of tannin, as before stated.
The formula is, viz: R — Acet: plumb: 3j, pulv:-opii grs. xij. M. ft: pilul: No. xij., giving
one after every watery evacuation, and, if these are copious, oftener, or in larger doses — say
two or three pills at a time. Or it may be given bj' injections, thus, viz : ft — Acet: plumbi:
3j, tinct: opii 3j, water § vj. Give one-half as an injection, and repeat if necessary. The
use of brandy-toddy, and of beef or chicken-broth, seasoned with salt or red pepper, will be
found useful, and should be given the more freely the more severe the attack is.
"Whenever the first stage is severe, and always in the second stage, direct a large blister to
be applied over the epigastrium, and give, in addition to the other remedies, viz: ft — Garb:
ammoniaj, pulv: gum: Arabic, ufi, 3 ij, aqua | vj. Next, direct a table-spoonful every fifteen
minutes or half hour, as may be necessary, using with it brandy-toddy freely.
"In the collapse, little can be done except to endeavor, by all means in our power, to restore,
through the absorbents, the lost serosity of the blood. Give broken ice as freely as it is craved.
Give animal broths, seasoned with salt and red pepper ; also, brandy-toddy. Most usually, in
this condition, but little can be retained in the stomach, and it will, therefore, be found judi-
cious to exhibit then^by the rectum — say, to give from one to two table-spoonsful of brandy,
mixed with four ounces of beef-tea, chicken-broth', &c., and repeat it every hour or two, as it
can be retained. I have several times known good champagne wine, when properly cooled, by
surrounding the bottle with ice, to be retained in the stomach, when no other fluid would be. If
we can by any means cause fluids to be retained in the stomach or rectum, during the collapse,
we give our patient every chance we can of his recovery. It is thus placed in contact with the
absorbents, and this is all we can do; it remains for them to act; if they do act, life may be
saved, otherwise it cannot.
"The ataxic ftver is the condition in which death oftenest occurs. It is extremely dangerous.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
2G5
and requires judicious treatment and close attention. The main indications are to sustain the
system, to supply it freely with nutritious broths, and try by these means, combined with stimu-
lants, such as brandy, champagne, carbonate of ammonia, &c., with camphor and opium,
(using the latter with extreme caution,) to prevent exhaustion.
" There is one fact fully established during the late epidemic at the Charity Hospital. It is
this : those patients (and there were a great many of them) who passed through the disease
without having had any opium given to them at any period of the disorder, passed through the
following stages of the disease, and died precisely as those who were treated with opium:
died apparently narcotized — comatose. This is readily accounted for, by the circulation of black
blood through the brain."*
DISEASES OF THE RESPIEATOEY SYSTEM.
Quarters -__
FiRsr.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOUKTH.
YEAR.
Proportion of deaths to
cases.
1
it
Strength
6,
425
6,
439
5,
583
5,
228
5,919
S5
■si
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Bronchitis acuta et chronica..
31
365
8
45
22
6
5
1
2
22
310
8
35
10
8
7
1
15
300
14
40
7
8
1
8
2
16
200
13
38
7
9
8
2
84
1175
43
158
46
31
1
28
1
4
3
lin 84
in 1175
1 in 1.53
1 in 158
lin 11.5
lin 10
14
198
7.2
Pleuritis - _
26
8
All other diseases of this system
6
Total
477
8
393
8
384
11
283
10
1537
37
lin 41
259
Rheumatism us .
212
248
194
157
811
in 811
137
The epidemic influenza, which has been so frequently noted in this report^ made its first
appearance at Fort Jesup in the early part of July, 1843, but prevailed more generally in
August. At Baton Eouge Barracks that disease prevailed in July and August, reaching into
September, when it became complicated with the epidemic of yellow fever. Most of the nine
fatal cases of yellow fever reported in the third quarter 1843, had been previously sick with
epidemic catarrh. At Mount Vernon Arsenal the influenza prevailed in September, there being
no cases reported in August.
In closing this summary, it is important to state that, during the war with Mexico, the hos-
pitals at New Orleans and at Baton Rouge were opened for the reception of the sick and wounded
from the general hospitals at the immediate seat of war. As it is not the present object to give
the medical statistics of that war, the reports from those stations, for the periods when occupied,
as above stated, (from October, 1846, to January, 1849,) have been excluded from the consoli-
dated abstract. If time permits, some general statistics of that war will be given as a supple-
ment to this report.
o In an article published in the New Orleans Medical and Surgical Journal, Dr. McCormick has mors fully presented
his views respecting the proximate cause and pathology of cholera..— C.
S. 96-
-34
266 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
SOUTH INTERIOR REGION.— No. 2.
This region inclnde.s that portion of the area of the United States which lies hetween the
Arkansas and Rod rivers, on the north and south, and tlic Mississippi river and the eastern slope
ol' the Rocky ]Mouiitains, on the east and west. The military stations are coniined to Arkansas,
and to the Indian Territories bordering upon, or lying due west from, that State. Fort Smith
is the only post in the State of Arkansas; the stations in the Indian Territories are Forts Gib-
son, Wayne, Towson, Washita, and Arbuckle.
FORT SMITH.
This station is on the south hank of the Arkansas, at the mouth of the Poteau river, and at
the western limit of the State of Arkansas. It is about 330 miles north from the Gulf of
Mexico, and has a local elevation of about 70 feet. Lakes and marshes abound in every direc-
tion ; some of the latter being subject to be inundated by the Arkansas and Poteau rivers. The
diseases of this post are similar to those of Fort Gibson, which will be more particularly
described.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT GIBSON.
By Assistant Surgeon R. H. Coolidge.
Fort Gibson is situated on the east bank of the Neosho or Grand river, in the Cherokee
Nation, west of Arkansas, latitude 35° 48' 10" north, longitude 95° 3' 15" west, and about 425
miles north of the Gulf of Mexico, measuring from a point near the mouth of the Sabine river.
The fort stands upon a plain 550 feet above the level of the sea, and about 20 feet
above ordinary low-water mark in the Neosho. This plain extends back from the river about
350 yards, where it terminates in a ridge, the commencement of a high rolling prairie, which
spreads in an easterly direction to the Menard mountain, distant about three and a half miles.
On the north it is terminated immediately at the fort, by the high prairie above alluded to,
which here attains an elevation of over 100 feet, and reaches to the bank of the river. On the
south and southeast, this plain is continuous with the "river-bottom," of which it is, in fact, a
portion, which extends south to the confluence of the Neosho with the Arkansas river, two and
a half miles, and thence southeast for five miles, following the Arkansas to the Bayou Menard,
a small stream at the base of the Menard mountain. This bottom-land has a river margin of
about eight miles ; and an average breadth of three miles, the whole of which, except in the
immediate vicinity of the fort, is covered with a dense growth of forest-trees and cane, and has
within its borders several lakes and lagoons. The whole, not excepting the site of the fort, is
subject to overflow, and during the intense heat of summer the lagoons are mostly dried up.
To the southwest lies a similar "bottom," triangular in shape, bounded on the east by the
Neosho, on the south by the Arkansas, and on the west by the Verdigris, a river which empties
into the Arkansas, one-half mile above the mouth of the Neosho. The width of this "bottom,"
measuring from the Neosho to the Verdigris, varies from a half to three miles, while its average
extent in a line north from the Arkansas is about two miles.
The climate of Fort Gibson is variable; the summers are intensely hot, and the winters,
though sometimes mild and pleasant, are occasionally severe, the rivers being frozen so that
loaded wagons cross in safety.
The annual average range of the thermometer is 96°, in summer rising to 102°, and falling
in winter to +6°. The extreme average in a'period of twenty-seven years is 123°; the max-
imum being 116°, the minimum — 7°. The mean temperatures are as follows: spring 61.04,
summer 79.41, autumn 61.66, winter 41.13: year 60.81.
The prevailing winds during the summer months are from the S.E. and S.S.E., blowing, in
some months, twenty-eight out of thirty days from one of those points. These winds traverse
the extensive "bottom" above described, before reaching the fort. Occasionally the wind
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 267
changes to the southwest, blowing over the bottom-land lying between the Neosho and Verdi-
gris rivers; and this change is always followed by increased sickness among the infantry, whose
barracks are more exposed to this wind than to that from the southeast; while the contrary
obtains with the dragoon command, whose quarters, located on the prairie-ridge bordering the
great bottom, are more exposed to the miasm wafted by the prevailing wind. As a general
rule, the fevers in this command are more severe than those occurring in the infantry, whose
barracks, being on the immediate bank of the river, are protected in some measure from the
prevailing winds by the elevated prairie-ridge.
The soil is a sandy alluvion, resting upon a substratum of limestone. The water is strongly
impregnated with lime.
The majority of the diseases are of malarial origin, and those which chiefly engage the atten-
tion of the medical officers are fevers of an intermittent and remittent type.
An examination of the records of the hospital at this station for a period of twenty years has
developed the following results; the time, for the purpose of comparison, being divided into
two periods often years each: the first, from 1829 to 1838; the second, from 1839 to 1848.
During the first decennial period, the aggregate strength of the command was 4,0G4; and
there occurred 4,686 cases of intermittent, and 1,016 cases of remittent fever. Of the former
5, and of the latter 44 were fatal.
In the second decennial period, the aggregate strength of the command was 3,308 ; and during
this period 4,466 cases of intermittent, and 356 cases of remittent fever were reported. Eight
cases of each type proved fatal.
The annual average of intermittent fever for the first decennial period is 120 per cent.; for
the second, 135 per cent. Of remittent fever, the average for the first period is 25 per cent.;
and for the second, 10.7 per cent. The deaths from fevers of all kinds for the first ten years
were 57 ; and for the second ten years 18 — all of which occurred within the first four years of
this period. In the first decennial period, 26 deaths were from phthisis pulmonalis; and in
the second, 10 died with that disease.
The total number of deaths from 1829 to 1838, inclusive, is 277; the annual mortality being
6.5 per cent. Excluding the deaths from epidemic cholera (18), homicide, suicide, and submer-
sion, the annual ratio of mortality is reduced to 4.5 per cent. — (Vide Med. Statistics U. S. A.,
ed. 1840.)
In the period embraced in the second abstract, there were 90 deaths, being an annual mor-
tality of 2.8 per cent.
The practice of treating diseases of malarial origin, and particularly of remittent and inter-
mittent fevers, with large doses of quinine, administered not only in the remission and inter-
mission, but in the height of the fever, was introduced at Fort Gibson in the summer of 1843,
by Assistant Surgeon Charles McCormick, who, in common with many officers of the medical
staff, had previously adopted this treatment in Florida.
It is found that from July 1st, 1843, to June 30th, 1847, a period of four years, during which
the hospital was successively in charge of Surgeon Randall, Assistant Surgeon McCormick, and
myself, there were 2,252 cases of intermittent reported. Of these, 1,645 were quotidian, 588
tertian, and 19 quartan. Of remittent fever, 105 cases are reported. All these fevers were
treated with large doses of quinine, and upon what has been appropriately termed the "abortive
method." No case terminated untixvorably.
The total number of deaths during this period is 13: of these, 2 were from delirium tremens,
3 coup de soleil, 1 cerebritis, 2 phthisis pulmonalis, 1 hfemathorax, 1 pneumonia, 1 icterus, 1
dysentery^ and 1 enteritis.
The aggregate mean strength of the command being 944, and the deaths 13, the annual ratio
of mortality is 1.3 per cent. — which is 5.2 per cent, less than the annual ratio for the first
decennial period, and 4 per cent, less than for the first four years of the second decennial period.
The annual average of intermittent fever for the four years under consideration, is found to
268 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
be 238 per cent. — being 118 per cent, bigher than the ratio for the first decennial period. The
reverse of this, however, obtains with regard to remittent fevers; the average for the fonr years
being 11 per cent., wliile for the first ten years it is 25 per cent.
In connexion with this unusually large ratio of intermittent fevers, it is proper to state that
in January, 1843, the Xeoslio rose thirty-five feet, overflowing tlie extensive bottom-lands in
the vicinity of the fort; and in May and June, 1844, the wliole of these lands were again sub-
merged. The river overflowed its banks so suddenly, that large numbers of cattle were over-
taken in the cane-brakes by the water, and drowned. The lower floors of some of the public
buildings were covered with water, and it became necessary to remove the commissary and other
stores. The extensive gardens of the post, then in full cultivation, were ruined. When the
waters subsided, which was not till the lapse of several weeks, so great was the amount of putre-
fying animal and vegetable matter, that travellers, passing in steamers on the Arkansas, were
compelled to enter their rooms and close the doors. According to the testimony of Cherokee
and Creek Indians residing near this post, the summers of 1843 and '44 were the most sickly
ever known, if we except that of 1834, in which year the ratio of mortality at the post was 21
per cent. !
The fevers occurring among the troops during the summer months are quotidian and remit-
tent. Of the former, very many would become remittent under any other than the "abortive"
treatment. That this is not mere conjecture, is shown by the statistics presented in this paper ;
and further, by the fact that, during the months of September and October, the fevers in the
surrounding countrj' are almost universally of a severe bilious remittent type.
So much has been written within the last eight years of the efficacy of the quinine treatment
in fever, that it seems a work of supererogation to add to the mass of facts in support of its
propriety and success, which have been presented to the profession. A treatise on the diseases
of a locality would, however, be so manifestly incomplete without some account of the treatment
proper to be adopted for their cure, that the following remarks are deemed necessary:
In the treatment of oi'dinary intermittents, it was not considered necessary to give the quinine
during the paroxysm. In the quotidian, the fever coming on in the morning and subsiding
towards evening, it was the practice to prescribe ten grains of the sulphate of quinine at bed-
time, the dose to be repeated the following morning, about five hours before the expected return
of the paroxysm. In a majority of these cases^ no preparatory treatment was necessary, unless
perhaps a single purgative dose of calomel and rhubarb, to cleanse the prima? vife, and excite
the functions of the liver. The general condition of the patient, and particularly of the organs
connected with the digestive system, was always examined ; and upon the discovery of any func-
tional derangement, or visceral disease, the proper remedies were administered.
Numerous carefully conducted experiments proved that the above method of using quinine
was the most economical and efficacious mode of treating the intermittents at Fort Gibson. As
a general rule, twenty grains thus given prevented a recurrence of the paroxysm, which would
not be effected with less than thirty grains given in small doses repeated every hour.
The remittents, in some seasons, frequently required the lancet; and it was generally neces-
sary to act upon the liver and intestinal canal, either with an emetic and cathartic, or with the
latter alone. Frequently, however, patients have been admitted with high fever, intense head-
ache, full, frequent pulse, dry and intensely hot skin, to whom, in preference to bleeding,
(though to all appearance absolutely required,) a full sedative dose of quinine — say fifteen or
twenty grains — was given without any preparatory treatment. The effect has uniformly been
to lessen, in a remarkable manner, the force and frequency of the pulse, alleviate or entirely
remove the headache, and bathe the body in profuse perspiration. The same effects would be
produced by venesection, affusion of cold water, diaphoretics, &c.; but the fever thus tempora-
rily allayed would return, perhaps, with increased violence, and, with alternate remissions and
exacerbations, continue for weeks, perhaps become typhoid, and prove ultimately fatal ; while,
with the sedative quinine treatment, there is produced so full and perfect a remission of the
AMONG THE TEOOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 269
febrile symptoms, that if the remedy is repeated at intervals of four or six hours for two, or at
most three periods, the disease vanishes, and the patient, instead of feeling as if he had been
sick, is able to resume the laborious duties of a soldier by the third or fourth day from the
attack.
That the above is no mere fancy of the writer, could be demonstrated from the official records,
did time and space jjermit. It may, however, be briefly stated, that in the summer of 1844
the supply of quinine was exhausted, a quantity intended for the post having been lost by the
sinking of a boat in the Arkansas. Every method of treating intermittents and remittents was
tried, nevertheless the number of beds in the hospital had to be doubled ; many of the fevers
assumed a typhoid type ; and several would have proved fatal but for the employment of quinine,
a small quantity of which, obtained from a private source, was reserved for the most severe
cases. In a short time after a full supply of quinine had been received, the extra beds were no
longer required, the occupants having returned to duty.
It was ascertained, from a record of some hundred cases, that intermittents were liable to
return at intervals of seven, fourteen, twenty-one, and twenty-eight days. The period of recur-
rence having been ascertained, the patient was required to take twenty grains of quinine in two
doises — one twelve, and the other six hours before the expected paroxysm. In every case unac-
companied with organic disease, this treatment was successful, effecting a permanent cure.
In fevers occurring in pregnant women, the quinine was given more freely than in ordinary
cases, it being deemed important to prevent a return of the paroxysm^ in order to prevent abor-
tion or miscarriage — a result never caused by the use of quinine.
It is not, however, only in the fevers at this post that this remedy is useful. It is equally
necessary to the successful treatment of dysentery, cholera infantum, and pneumonia. It is not
pretended that quinine will cure all of the above diseases, or that, in places free from mala-
rial influences, it is necessary; it is recommended, because all persons residing at Fort Gibson
(and the same must obtain in places similarly situated) must receive the poison malaria, which
usually exhibits itself in the series of symptoms we call intermittent and remittent fevers ; some-
times, however, from peculiar idiosyncrasy, or unusual vigor of constitution, its presence remains
unknown and unnoticed, till from some accidental cause there is a departure from health ; then
this poison exercises a powerful influence over whatever disease exists, and no disease accom-
panied with fever can be satisfactorily treated at this post, unless the practitioner recognizes
the existence of this poihon, and applies its antidote.
As regards the mooted question, whether or not diseases of the organs connected with the
digestive system, and dropsies, have been more frequent since the practice of using large doses
of quinine became general in the army? the records of Fort Gibson give the following results:
In the first decennial period, with a command having an aggregate strength of 4,064, there
occurred 3,255 cases of diseases of the digestive organs, and 56 of dropsies. In the second period,
with an aggregate command of 3,308, only 1,486 cases of the former and 9 of the latter are
reported.
The most fatal disease occurring in the vicinity of Fort Gibson, and also in the State of
Arkansas, is that called, in the language of the country, "winter fever." The principal mor-
tality among tlie Cherokee and Creek Indians is from this disease. It usually attacks persons
enfeebled by climate and malarial influences, who live in open houses, are poorly clothed, and,
above all, intemperate. No case has occurred, to my knowledge, among the regular troops.
The disea.se is sometimes rapidly fatal, being ushered in with a chill, during which the brain
or lungs, or both, become fatally congested, the patient never rallying. In less severe cases,
there is usually a chill, followed by fever, complicated with pneumonia, whicli is not imfre-
quently double. The disease has a strong tendency to become typhoid, and, if treated as an
ordinary pneumonia, is generally fatal. The following extract from my official report for the
third quarter, 1845, briefly states my views of the nature and treatment of this disease.
"The disease called 'winter fever' is, in fact, a pneumonia. The attendant fever appears to
270 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
be continued, and not to differ from the symptomatic fever attending pneumonitis at the north ;
but, if closely watched, slight remissions may be observed, even in the severest cases. There
appears to be an 'essential i'ever' with local intiaramation. In such cases, my observation
teaches me that you may bleed, cup, give mercurial cathartics, and use the tartrate of antimony
freely, and still tlie disease will gain ground. I have closely watched several cases, and, not-
withstanding the employment of remedies wliich, in ordinary pneumonia, would have been
successful, I have found the disease steadily advancing both in extent and degree. In this con.
dition, with extensive inflammation of both lungs, I have given "the sulphate of quinine in ten
and twenty-grain doses, with the happy effect of removing ahnont entirelij the attendant fever in
less than twenty-four hours, and checking, or at least enabling remedies, before inefficacious,
to check the progress of the disease."
In a subsequent report (March, 1847, )the following remarks occur:
"I have had an excellent opjiortunity this quarter of treating this disease ('winter fever'), in
a severe form, among the Arkansas volunteers, and the success of my treatment has corrobo-
rated the views expressed in my report for December, 1845.
"The treatment adopted was moderate bleeding, cupping, and external irritants; a mercu-
rial cathartic followed by the nitrous powder of the United States Dispensatory, frequently re-
peated, and quinine given in suiScient doses to check the fever, which it always did.
"The disease had a typhoid tendency, which prevented large bleeding, and rendered the use
of serpentaria, senega, and wine necessary in the latter stages.
"Sixteen cases were treated during this quarter, two of which were fatal; of these, one was
apoplectic when first seen ; the insensibility was never removed, the patient dying in sixty
hours. The other was complicated with meningitis, and was under treatment only thirty-six
hours."
FORT "WAYNE.
Tin's post was occupied about three years within the period embraced in this report, having
been finally abandoned in the summer of 1842. According to Assistant Surgeon Josiah Simj^-
son, who has furnished a few brief remarks respecting its locality, this post was situated upon
a beautiful and elevated plain, in the immediate vicinity of a large prairie, about sixty miles
north of Fort Gibson.
FORT TOW SON.
This fort is situated in the Choctaw nation, about fifty miles west from the western boundary
of the State of Arkansas, six miles northwest of Red river, and the same distance south and east
from the Kiamichi. Immediately in the rear of the buildings is an abrupt ravine about eighty
feet deep, varying in breadth from a few yards to half a mile, and bounded on the opposite side
by rolling hills densely covered with oak and pine. Through it, at the foot of the hill, runs a
creek which has its source among the pine hills to the northwest of the fort, and which empties
into Red river a short distance below the Kiamichi. This bottom, which is covered with hick-
cry, scrub oak, &c., presents a marshy surface — the obvious source of malarial exhalations.
In front of the fort the ground descends gradually for a mile. At this point the prairies com-
mence, and spread out in an undulating manner to a great distance. In the immediate vicinity
of the fort, the soil, which is composed of light sand and clay, is not very productive. Upon
the prairies, the soil, though superficial, is much richer, based upon a thick stratum of lime-
stone.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY OF FORT AVASHITA.
By Assistant Surgeon T. C. Madison : 1852.
Fort Washita is located in the Chickasaw district of the Choctaw Nation, west of the State
of Arkansas. Latitude 34° 14' 2G"; longitude 19° 20'. Altitude of the barometer above the
sea, 645.0133 feet.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 271
The False Washita river runs within a mile and a half of the post, about 30 miles above its
mouth or entrance into Red river, and about 150 feet below the level of the post. Its bottom
is not extensive in this vicinity; and if there be any malaria generated therein, tlie prevailing
winds during the summer and autumnal seasons waft it in a different direction.
The post is beautifully situated in a small grove, on the border of an extensive prairie, and
is decidedly one of the healthiest positions at present occupied by our troops.
By reference to the hospital register, it appears that there have occurred 3,334 cases of sick
and wounded, from the 1st of July, 1842, to the 31st December, 1848, inclusive. During the
above period, there were five deaths only — namely, two from remittent fever, one from acute
dysentery, one from a gun-shot wound, and the fifth from delirium tremens.
From the 1st January, 1849, up to the present time, no death has occurred, if you except a re-
cruit en route for Fort Belknap, who arrived here in a dying condition. During the erection of
the present quarters, which are the best I have seen in the army, the men were worked hard, and
necessarily much exposed to the solar rays, and, as is usually the case at most new posts, suf-
fered from intermittent fever, which, however, in every instance, was readily curable by the
quinine treatment.
The climate may be considered variable. The highest afternoon thermometrical observation
during the above period was 107° Fahrenheit, and the lowest, zero. Ice, which is so desira-
ble as a luxury, and almost invaluable as a remedy, can generally be procured during the
winter, and preserved throughout the summer. All the wells, springs, and small streams in
this vicinity are strongly impregnated with lime, making it desirable to collect rain for pur-
poses of ablution. No case of cholera has ever occurred at this post, or at Fort Towson, though
Forts Smith and Gibson have suffered considcrabh' on more than one occasion.
The characteristic geological formations of this region are lime and sandstone. The soil of
the high ground is argillaceous, covered with a thick vegetable mould ; that of the low land is
partly alluvial and very productive. To enumerate all the flowers on our almost boundless
prairies would be an endless task, besides requiring a more intimate acquaintance with botany
than I possess.
The following are a few of the plants, trees, flowers, and animals in this vicinity:
Silphium laciniatum, or polar or magnetic plant (Indian guide) ; datura stramonium, or
Jamestown weed ; digitalis purpurea, or foxglove ; aralia niidicaulis, or sarsaparilla ; atropa
belladonna, or deadly nightshade; podophyllum peltatum, or May-apple; achillea millefolium,
or yarrow; a^sculus pavia, or yellow buckeye; arum tryphillum, or Indian turnip; allium
sativum, or garlic; allium (species unknown), or wild onion; cactus melocactus, or melon
thistle ; cactus opuntia, or prickly pear ; carya alba, or shag-bark hickory ; carya olivreformis, or
pecan nut; cercis Canadensis, or red bud; cornus sericea, or red rod; crattegus punctata, or
common thorn-tree ; fragaria Virginiana, or wild strawberry; fraxinus acuminata, or white
ash; fraxinus sambucifolia, or black ash ; juglans nigra, or black walnut; diospyros Virgini-
ana, or persimmon; serpentaria Virginiana, or snake-root; prunus Virginiana, or Avild cherry;
morus rubra, or red mulberry ; nepeta cataria, or catnip ; oxalis acetosella, or wood sorrel ;
Phytolacca decandra, or poke-weed; populus lavigata, or cottonwood; quercus nigra, or black-
jack; quercus obtusiloba, or post oak; quercus rubra, or red oak; rubus villosus, or high
blackberry; rubus trivealis, or dewberry; ulmus fulva, or slippery elm; verbena; vitis vul-
pina, or winter grape; vitis labruscoides, or fox grape; mimosa, or sensitive plant, (red, yel-
low, and white) ; dianthus barbatus, or sweet-william; lobelia cardinalis, or cardinal flower;
indigofera tinctoria, or indigo; viola, or violet; viola tricolor, or pansy; humulus lupulus, or
hop; helianthus annus, or sunflower; campanula, or bell-flower; marrubrium vulgare, or hore-
hound; bois d'arc, or Osage orange; platanus occidentalis, or sycamore; Chickasaw plum;
tanacetum vulgare, or wild tansy ; rhus, or sumach; foeniculum, or fennel ; sambucus, or elder;
coreopsis ; heliotropium ; menthte viridis, or spear mint.
272 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Animals. — Bear (black), deer (white tail), fox, hare, opossum, otter, skunk, wolf (prairie),
raccoon, mouse, rat, rabbit, squirrel (red, fjrey, and black).
Birds. — Bird of Paradise (prairie), blackbird (red-winged), blackbird (rusty), blue-bird, buz-
zard, crane (sandhill and white), crow, dove, ducks (teal, summer, and mallard), grouse, quail
(Virginia partridge), lark, mocking-bird, hawks, owls, martin, plover, red-bird, robin, sparrow,
swallow, snipe, sap-sucker, wild goose, woodpecker, wild turkey, whip-poor-will, wild pigeon,
yellow-l)ird, bee-martin, kingfisher.
Reptiles. — Lizard, moccasin, rattle-snake, water snake, black snake, viper, tarantulas,
scorpions.
Fishes. — Buffalo, drum, catfish, eel, gar-fish, trout (not speckled), sucker, sun-fish.
With regard to the Indians in this vicinity — the Choctaws and Chickasaws — they sufier much
from scrofula, scurvy, rheumatism, and typhoid pneumonia, or "winter fever." The majority
of them are too lazy to work, and are, consequently, badly clothed and badly fed. Their scro-
fula is generally hereditary — that is, scrofulous parents generally beget scrofulous children.
Their scurvy is owing to their disinclination to engage in agricultural or horticultural pursuits.
Very tew of the wealthiest, even, hardly ever procure vegetables for consumption during the
winter season.
I am inclined to think favorably of the infusion or decoction of the leaves of the black walnut
in scrofulous affections. I have tried it in a few cases only; the suggestion was derived from a
medical journal. In "winter fever," I believe the treatment adopted by Assistant Surgeon
Coolidge, U. S. A., to be the best. — {Vide 2d vol. Fenner's Southern Medical Reports.)
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY OF FORT ARBUCKLE.
By Assistant Surgeon Rodney Glisan : 1854.
This post is in latitude 34° 27' north, longitude 9Y° 09' west, and is situated in a wood, some
four miles south of the Washita river, and seventy-six miles north by west of its conjunction
with Red river. Immediately west of the garrison is a low timbered bottom, rank in vegetable
growth, through which run several small sluggish mountain streams, that dry up during the
intense heat of summer.
The prairie beyond the timber (in which the post is located) east and west is undulating, and
rises irregularly, southward, swelling into a broken mountain ridge, with an elevation of 400
feet above the river's bed. This mountain is south of the fort, and distant about 1^ mile;
general direction east and west. The only really boggy, marshy lowland lines Wild-horse
creek, a tributary of the Washita, and the latter river — the former distant one mile, and the
latter four miles, north.
The characteristic geological formations of this country are lime and sandstone. The soil
of the high ground is argillaceous, covered with a thick vegetable mould; that of the low land
is partly alluvial and very productive. The climate is mild and uniform, but subject to sudden
changes of temperature ; weather generally fair. The prevailing winds during winter are from
the N.; during the spring, S.W. and S.; during the summer, S.; and during the autumn, we
have them from the S., the S.E., and S.W. The vernal, summer, and autumnal winds sweep
over a dry and elevated region of the country.
As the alluvial low land lies, principally, north of the garrison, and the prevailing winds
are from an opposite direction, the miasmatic exhalations of this region are not fully expe-
rienced.
The bottom, in our immediate vicinity, is tolerably well drained.
It is ascertained from an examination of the hospital records,* that each man was on the sick
«• The abstracts of meteorological observations, and of reports of sick and wounded, which formed part of this report,
are omitted, in accordance with the general rule. — C.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION, 273
report 1.3 times per quarter. The principal diseases bear the following ratio to the whole
number treated : Intermittent fever, 36 ; catarrh, 9; dysentery, 4.66; and diarrhoea, 4.03 per
centum.
The number of deaths for the last 2f years being 5, the annual ratio of mortality per 100 of
mean strength is consequently 1.8. Three of the deaths occurred in 1852 — two of dysentery
and one of typhoid pneumonia; and two in 1853, of dysentery.
The predominant disease during the second and third quarters (of 1851) was intermittent
fever. This was generally of a mild tyjie, and in no instance did it assume a malignant form.
The great majority of the cases of this complaint in the second quarter were secondary and of
foreign origin, occurring originally at the temporary encampment on the Canadian river. The
company that came thence, and suffered most, left here at the commencement of the second
month in the third quarter. In accordance with a general law pertaining to malaria, that,
other things being equal, the lower the position the more intense its action, it has come under
my observation, both at the temporary encampment on the Canadian and at this post, that per-
sons occupying raised bunks (say 2^ or 3 feet) were much less liable to malarious diseases than
those sleeping on the ground.
The first disease requiring particular notice in 1852 is scurvy. We had two well-marked
cases of this complaint in the first quarter, and there appeared to be a general predisposition to
it in the command. But as its cause was clearly to be attributed to the deficient supply in the
commissary department of the usual anti-scorbutics — sauer-kraut, dried apples, pickles, &c. — as
well as to the scanty issue of very poor and indifferent beef to tlie troops, its progress was soon
checked by correcting these evils, and requiring, in addition, large quantities of wild onions,
which were just becoming of a proper size for use, to be issued daily to the men.
Four out of five deaths were from the different varieties of dysentery. But the predominant
affections, both in 1852 and 1853, were intermittent and remittent fevers, which were, in many
cases, of a very severe grade. These are so universally common in this region, that he who,
after a residence here of three years, has escaped unscathed, is looked upon as the most fortunate
of mortals. And, indeed, he has some claim to congratulation; for, from the frequency of their
recurrence in the same individual, there are, perhaps, no maladies more depressing to our
physical and mental energies.
There is scarcely a single day throughout the year in which some one is not ailing with the
intermittent fever; but it is, of course, more prevalent in the spring and beginning of autumn,
particularly the latter period. About the first of October, it is no unusual occurrence, in a
command of 120 men, to have as many as twenty on the sick-report at one time with this com-
plaint.
It is then, also, that remittent fever is so rife. In this climate nearly all diseases are modi-
fied by malaria throughout the entire year, but more especially in the autumn. It is this com-
plication that renders diarrhoea and dysentery so exceedingly troublesome to manage. But its
baneful influence is more particularly observable in the (so called) winter fever of this region,
which is essentially a typhoid pneumonia, complicated with malarious fever. It will be again
referred to under the remaiks on the diseases of the Indians.
From the fact that the men have had all the mechanical duty to perform at and around the
post, in erecting quarters, building bridges, &c., the number of wounds and injuries is unusu-
ally large. The majority of the men are foreigners, and the larger proportion of these Ger-
mans and Irish, who know nothing of the use of the broad-axe, however expert the former may
have been with the broad-sword, or the latter with the spade, in their own country.
Causes. — As it regards the severity of the disease, the want of acclimation may be mentioned
as one of the most prominent causes. All the above fatal cases occurred in persons not long
from a more northern and colder climate ; three of them had been here a little more than a
year, the other only five or six months — in fact, died during their first summer's residence.
The men have been much exposed, ever since the location of this post, in erecting permanent
s. 96 35
274 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
quarters, and for the greater ])art of this time both companies were cabined in very indifferent
shanties — affording bnt little ])rotection from inclement weather. One comjjany is still occu-
pying these huts. Exposure, therefore, is anotlicr prolific source of the frequency of disease at
tliis post.
Eecruits are notorious for being frequently sick ; owing, principally, to their not knowing
how to adn])t them.selves jiroperly to the vicissitudes of this climate, where, on account of the
extreme sudden changes of temperature, one is required to be constantly on the alert. It may
be summer to-day, and winter to-morrow. These changes are more frequent in the last of
autumn and the first of spring; though we had a remarkable example on the 15th instant. (?)
The whole afternoon was very warm ; as night aj)proached, the wind suddenly veered from south
to northwest; and by simrise the following morning the thermometer had fallen to 15°; being
61° lower than at 3 r. M. of the preceding day. Sudden changes of temperature, then, may be
noted as one of the greatest of exciting causes. The character of the diseases shows that ma-
laria also has been very active. Independent of its own legitimate diseases, (if the expression
is allowable,) we must look to it alone for an explanation of the greater prevalence of dysen-
tery than diarrhoea. For if we leave out the excess of this disease in the second quarter of
1853, which is ascribable to the unusual exposure of the subjects of it to cold and moisture,
they having been daily up to their waists in water while engaged in bridging Wild Horse creek,
we will have a regular increase of it as the fever season advances. It was not, however, merely
a regular numerical increase, but a progressive intensity of grade and miasmatic complication.
It is, therefore, fair to conclude that many of the cases of dysentery, especially in September
and October, would have been simple diarrhoea, had not the influence of malaria been con-
joined to the usual causes of this com^daint. It would be impossible to select a place in this
whole section of country free from this poison. Our position is generally considered a healthy
one; and will doubtless prove so after the bottom in our immediate vicinity shall have been
divested of its superabundant vegetable growth, the dead timber and other obstructions removed
from its water-courses, and good quarters furnished for the troops. The clearing already done
around the garrison, instead of rendering it more salubrious, has probably made it less so —
attributable to the large timber liaving been mostly felled for building purposes, leaving the
dense vegetable growth only the more subject to decomposition from a greater amount of solar
heat conjoined to its previous moisture — the elements in all countries for the generation of ma-
laria. It is only in a state of semi-cultivation that the projjer conditions are obtained for the
production of this poison to its fullest extent. For it is notorious that in all new settlements,
in thickly timbered regions where miasmatic fevers prevail, they are more prevalent in the
second and third years than in the first, or than they ever become afterwards.
Treatment. — The scorbutic cases were easily managed by giving a strong solution of citric
acid frequently during the day, preceded by a mild saline cathartic when there was much con-
stipation ; and the free use of wild onions, together with eggs and fresh meat, as a diet. It was
entirely too early in the season for garden vegetables of any kind.
I am disposed to ascribe the beneficial results almost entirely to the wild onions. For the pa-
tients improved very slowly, if at all, under the citric acid alone, which was soon exhausted, and
did not show decided symptoms of convalescence until the use of the wild onions commenced.
I also believe that this vegetable was the chief instrument in preventing a further outbreak
of the disease among the troops. That there was a general scorbutic diathesis in the character
of nearly all the diseases then prevalent, and that this rapidly disappeared upon the free use of
onions, cannot for a moment be doubted. This beneficial change began simultaneously with
their use, and even before any otlier alteration was made in the diet of the men.
Is it not, then, a fair deduction to attribute to them a great, if not the chief, agency in the
cure and prevention of this dreadful disease?
I am also informed that this vegetable was very extensively used at Fort Belknap and Phan-
tom Hill in the winter of 1852, and with highly flattering results.
AMONG THK TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION. 275
I am aware that its anti-scorbutic virtues are well known, (at least in the army;) but, as its
growth is co-extensive with our immense western frontier ; and as it so frequently happens, both
in military and civil practice in the far west, that the usual officinal therapeutical remedies are
not to be obtained ; and as this vegetable is to be had iu abundance early in the spring, long
before garden vegetables and fruits can be gotten, I have deemed it a duty to add my feeble
testimony in its favor. Again : although it is a favorite remedy with some surgeons in the
army, I am not quite sure that it is at all known in civil jiractice. It certainly is not in this
section of country.
In the treatment of the miasmatic fevers, quinine and the various preparations of cinchona
were, of course, mainly relied upon. Quinine was generally administered during the intermis-
sion or remission of the febrile paroxysm ; but where there was no abatement, or only a slight
remission, I did not hesitate to give it, even while the fever was raging most violently. My
experience, however, would not justify me in adopting the practice of those who give it indis-
criminately during the paroxysm, and in the interval. My usual plan in intermittent fever
was, to commence the treatment by giving a solution of sulphate of magnesia and quinine; or a
mixture of rhubarb and quinine, if the bowels were costive; or of quinine and opium if they
were particularly loose; but when regular, quinine alone. In cold, damp weather, ol: ricini
was substituted for the above cathartics ; but given before, not with the quinine.
As only well-marked cases are included under the head of remittent fevers, I usually found
it necessary to use calomel or blue-mass freely, either separately, or combined with quinine. It
was also in this class of affections that venesection was occasionally made use of. But from my
knowledge of this disease, as it has prevailed here for the last two and three-quarters j'ears, I
should not fancy being compelled, like Gil Bias, to adopt Dr. Sangrado's practice in every
instance, nor even in the majority of cases.
Of course, emetics, diaphoretics, etc., were conjoined to the other treatment in the fevers
generally. In dysentery, the treatment was varied according to the type and grade of the dis-
ease. When highly inflammatory in character, attended with much tenesmus and arterial
excitement, more especially if associated with great hepatic or biliary derangement, a large dose
of calomel alone, or combined with opium, and assisted by oil, together with venesection, was
employed. For the next few days, alterative doses of calomel or blue-mass, conjoined with
opium or ex: hyosciamus, were given once, twice, or three times daily; and about every
second day a mild cathartic — which was generally castor-oil; but when the i'ever was high, and
the skin hot and dry, rochelle salts. Opium, either alone or in combination, was much em-
ployed. Sometimes the mercurial preparations were given frequently, with the view of "touch-
ing the gums."
In the chronic stage of the acute, and in all chronic cases, acet: plumbi was freely adminis-
tered; but, except in one or two cases, where the stools were very thin, and nearly pure blood,
it seemed to afford very little relief, and in many cases aggravated the symptoms. At this
stage, alum and other astringents were also employed. Hope's mixture sometimes did service,
but as frequently failed. Cups, blisters, fomentations, clysters, were all brought into requi-
sition as occasion required. Owing, however, to the frequent miasmatic complication, quinine
became, in many cases, indispensable. This was usually employed in large quantities ender-
mically.
Here end my remarks upon the diseases of the post; now for a few observations concerning
those of the surrounding country.
With the exception of some seven or eight families, there are no inhabitants in the neighbor-
hood of this post. The only Indians that temporarily encamp in its vicinity are roaming bands
of the Kickapoos, Witchitas, Keechies, and hunting parties of Caddoes, Wacoes, Creeks, Chero-
kees, Delawares, Chickasaws, and Choctaws. They are almost universally afliicted with the
malarious fevers and their effects. I have seldom seen a case of intermittent fever among them
276 REPORT ON TUE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
•without an enlargement of the spleen. Enlarged and indurated liver, and dropsy, are by no
means rare — all attributable to the freqxtency and long continuance of the disease. Remit-
tent fever is very fatal among them, particularly with tlie wild and half-civilized tribes.
About three luindred of a renegade band of the Kickapoos, who come under the latter class,
encamped in two parties near the garrison in the summer of 1852, and remained there until
last spring. According to their custom, they located their villages on high ground, but did
not display the same hygienic knowledge in regard to their position from marshes. One party
was peculiarly unfortunate in selecting a site directly north of a swampy part of the Washita
bottom, wliich was kept during the whole summer and autumn just sufficiently moistened to
make it a perfect hot-bed of malaria. The consequence was, that they were all stricken down
with the fever in its most violent form, and a large number died.
During their residence near garrison, they did not fail to observe that there was some more
effectual mode of treating this disease known to the whites than they had any knowledge of.
Their importunities for my assistance, therefore, were very frequent. But, for the want of an
interpreter, they followed my prescriptions so badly that I attended a very few of them.
Perhaps, among all the diseases to which the Indians of this country are siibject (smallpox
excepted), the winter fever is the most dreadful. It prevails more or less every winter; but,
occasionally, from a peculiar combination of meteorological conditions, sweeps them off by hun-
dreds. Its fatality, however, is more owing to the mode of treatment than the disease itself.
They absolutely bleed their patients to death. I allude more particularly to the Choctaws
and Chickasaws, among whom it raged so fearfully in the winter of 1852. They, in common
with all the so-called civilized Indians, adopt the medical practice, as well as other customs of
the whites, but are more easily imposed upon by quacks and impostors.
I attended in the winter of 1852 some six or seven cases of this disease, all of whom recov-
ered. I adopted with them the treatment recommended by Dr. Coolidge, U. S. A., as pub-
lished in Dr. Fenner's Southern Medical Eeports of 1851 or 1852, except that the quinine was
used in smaller doses, and given by preference in the remission of fever; which was not, how-
ever, always practicable. As his report is not at hand, I am not sure but that he also recom-
mends the quinine to be given in the remission. Be this as it may, it is to his accurate descrip-
tion of the disease, and its treatment, that I must refer all those who desire a more intimate
acquaintance with the subject.
I shall conclude with an extract from my former report :
"It appears to be a common, but doubtless false opinion, that the average life of the red man
(casualties excepted) is greater than that of his white brother. It is true that we see a great
many old-looking men amon'g them; but their old age is premature. I believe their longevity
is not as great by 10 per centum as that of Anglo-Americans. This is no doubt attributable
to their irregular diet, great exposure, ignorance of hygienic and proper therapeutic remedies.
In other respects, they have everything favorable to health and physical development. Their
mode of life affords them healthy exercise, and simple nutritious diet."
List of plants. — Aralia nudicaulis, or wild sarsaparilla ; achillea millefolium, or yarrow;
wsculus pavia, or yellow buckeye; arum triphyllum, or Indian turnip; allium sativum, or
garlic; allium (species unknown), or wild onion; asclepias, or milk-weed ; cactus melocactus,
or melon thistle ; C. opuntia, or prickly pear ; carya alba, or shag-bark hickory ; C. olivaeformis,
or pecan nut ; cercis Canadensis, or red bud ; cornus sericea, or red rod; Crataegus punctata, or
common thorn-tree; diospyros Virginiana, or persimmon; fragaria Virginiana, or wild straw-
berry ; fraxinus acuminata, or white ash ; F. sambucifolia, or black ash; gymnocladus Canaden-
sis, or coffee-bean tree; juglans cinerea, or butternut; J. nigra, or black walnut; juniperis
Virginiana, or red cedar ; plantanus occidentalis, or false sycamore ; mentha borealis, or horse
mint ; morus rubra, or red mulberry ; ne2)eta cataria, or catnip ; oxalis ascetosella, or wood-sorrel ;
panax quinquefolia, or ginseng ; phytolacca decandra, or poke-weed ; populus levigata, or cotton-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHEKN DIVISION.
277
■wood ; primus (species unknown), or prairie plum ; quercus nigra, or black-jack; Q. ob-
tusiloba, or post oak ; Q. macrocarpa, or over-cup oak; Q. palustris, or pin oak; Q. rubra, or red
oak ; Q. bannisteri, or scrub-oak ; rubus villosus, or high blackberry ; R. trivealis, or dewberry;
sambucus Canadensis, or black-berried elder; ulmus Americana, or red elm; U. fulva, or slip-
pery elm; verbena , (species unknown); vitis vulpina, or frost grape; V. labruscoides, or
fox grape ; viola , (species unknown).
Mammalia. — Antelope, bats, bear, (black, common), beaver, buffalo (within fifteen miles of
here), deer (white tail), deer (black tail), fox (common grey), hare, mouse (common), mustang,
otter (common), panther, raccoon, opossum, skunk, sr^uirrel (grey, fox, and black), wild-cat,
wolf (large black), wolf (prairie), rat (brown), rabbit.
Birds. — Bird of Paradise, blackbird (red-winged), blackbird (rusty), blue-bird, buzzard,
crane (sand-hill), crow (corby), dove, dipper, or didapper, ducks (teal, summer, and mallard),
eagle, grouse, hawk (prairie), liumming-bird, kingfisher, lark (prairie), mocking-bird (Eng-
lish), martin, owl (barn), pewee, plover, partridge, red-bird, robin, raven, sparrow, swallow,
snipe, sap-sucker, swan, wild goose, woodpecker, wild turkey, whip-poor-will, wild pigeon, wren,
yellow-bird.
Reptiles. — Lizard (common), moccasin (water), rattle-snake, water snake, black snake, gar-
ter snake, scorpion (so called); also, scorpio occitanus, or true scorpion, viper, turtle (soft-
shelled), turtle (fresh water), terrapin (water and land), frog (bull and horned), toad.
Fishes. — Bufialo, catfish, eel, gar-fish, perch (black), trout, bass, sucker, silver sides (or fall
fish), sun-fish.
DISEASES.
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MOETALITT.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
RATIO PER 1,000 or MEAN 8TREN0TH.
Treated.
Died.
10,195
10,990
10,326
8,540
6,769
8,985
12,200
7, 566
53
53
107
42
664
817
1,181
886
5 2
Second (quarter
4 8
Third quarter
10 3
Fourth quarter .
4 9
10,013
35,520
255
3,547
25.4
Exclusive of cholera
35,312
228 ^ 'i'"
22 7
'
The mean strength of the forces in this region being 10,013, and the number of cases of sick-
ness reported 35,520, it follows that the relative proportion of cases of disease to ofiicers and
men was 3.54 to 1. It also ajipear.s, from the foregoing table, that the proportion of deaths to
troops was 1 in 39.36, or 2.5 per cent.; and that the proportion of deaths to the number of
cases treated was 1 in 139.29, or O.'iTl per cent. Exclusive of cholera, the proportion of deaths
to the command was 1 in 43.91, or 2.2 per cent.; and to cases treated 1 in 154.88, or 0.64 per
cent.
278
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
FEVERS.
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
YEAR.
Proportion of deaths to
cases.
§
£ S
o a
■S's
&
Strength .
10,195
10,990
10,326
8,540
10,013
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
DeaUis.
Cases.
Deatbs.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Fcbris congestiva. ._-_-
15
1108
748
58
85
3
1
2
52
1430
1116
36
197
2
2
9
48
3G82
1166
40
815
10
4
4
1
3
10
5
12
2146
1016
71
250
1
1
3
1
4
9
127
8366
4046
205
1347
16
5
7
2
4
14
9
7 in 9
1 in 63
1 in 2091
in 4046
in 205
lin 96
0.8
Febris contiuua communis
Febris intermittens quotidiana
Febris intermittens tertiana .
Febris intermittens quartana.
12
836
404
20
134
Febris typhus. ...
lin 1.8 1.6
Febris typhus icterodes
Oin 5
0.5
Total
2017
3
2833
2
5774
23
3497
8
14121
36 ; lin 392
1412.
The original quarterly reports are without .special notes respecting this class of diseases,
except that by Assistant Surgeon Charles McCormick, for the quarter ending September 30,
1844; from which we make the following extracts:*
"Fever has been the prevailing disease; the quotidian ty2)e predominating, according to this
report, probably because all the cases admitted and treated on the first attack yield so readily
and rapidly to the energetic use of the sulphate of quinine in large doses, that the fever is
immediately cut short, and arrested in its progress before it has had time to develop its type.
In some cases the soldiers have suffered fever to become developed before admission ; and of
these, many proved remittent. Among the severest fevers I have met with in the south, a mild
form in the commencement has been by no means uncommon — even so slight as a mild form of
intermittent. Fevers may assume the congestive (algid) type at the outset, or it may occur at
any stage of the disease. Whenever it does occur, it almost always proves fatal in the third
congestive paroxysm, unless promptly relieved by large doses of opium and quinine."
"From a scarcity of the sulphate of quinine, I have been compelled, on several occasions, to
treat all the cases of fever without it, except those which assumed a severe or dangerous char-
acter. The result of all such compulsory trials, even in cases where the acidulated decoction,
or cold acidulated infusion, or the bark itself in substance, had been freely administered, has
been a confirmation of all my previous experience, viz : that the free administration of the sul-
phate of quinine is the only safe, judicious, and effectual mode of arresting the progress of fever,
and restoring the patient to health, free from the sequela3 that so often followed every other
method of management, and which in themselves have always proved more difiicult of cure than
the malady from which they originated. On every occasion, during this quarter, wherein this
powerful remedy was omitted, the fever wards of the hospital were filled with jmtients, suffering
from fever day after day, and daily, in a great \najority of cases^ increasing in severity, and in
nearly every case continuing its course until arrested by quinine, (which really does seem to act
« Having been on duty with Assistant Surgeon (now Surgeon) McCormiclc at Fort Gibson at the time this was written,
the compiler c.in add his testimony respecting the cro%vded condition of the fever-wards ; the increasing severity of that
class of diseases — intermittcnts running into high grades of the remittent form, and some becoming typhoid -, and also to
the almost instantaneous change effected by the use of quinine when a supply was received. In exjiUnation of the defi-
ciency in that article, it is proper to add, that it was caused by the sinking of the steamer having the medical supplies on
board.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
279
almost as an antidote). But when that remedy was on hand in quantities sufficient to justify
its true and proper use in all cases, two days were sufficient to free the wards from fever, and
to change the scene from one of suffering, prostration, and sickness, into one of convalescence
and health."
"The chief remedies resorted to as substitutes for quinine were the Peruvian bark, Virginia
snake-root, a combination of oi)iuin with the tartrate of antimony and i)otassa, or ipecac, (of
which I reported favorably in 183'J,) the ferro-cyanuret of iron, in doses of from 5 to 15 or 20
grains three times a day ; a combination of opium and sulphate of zinc, and the arsenite of
l)otassa. They proved inefficient in a great majority of cases. The remedies are named in the
order in whicli their comparative efficacy would seem to class them. Fowler's solution signally
failed, although I had hoped much from its use. That it was given in quantities sufficient to
produce its full efl'ects, was sufficiently evident from its having had a decidedly poisonous effect
in one case, and such a tendency in two others."
Eruptive Fevers. — Under this head we have to note 24 cases of rubeola, 4 of which proved
fatal. These cases occurred at Fort Smith, in the third quarter, 1846, and were mostly confined
to the Arkansas volunteers, who garrisoned that post. During that quarter, however, the com-
mand was composed of both regulars and volunteers, and the diseases of both, being embraced
in one report, are included in the general abstract. Assistant Surgeon J. H. Bailey reports
that the disease was brought to Fort Smith by the volunteers. The disease exhibited a strong
tendency to congestion, particularly of the lungs.
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters . - ______
FIBST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOCBTH
TEAS.
Proportion of deaths to
cases.
§
f.'^
10,
195
10,
390
10,
326
8,
540
10,
013
=^3
w 3
^ a
Di;<easop.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
356
136
18
5
4
2
173
197
6
1
3
2
23
907
481
30
5
11
3
332
377
7
2
3
1
1
2
1
182
979
448
11
18
7
1
283
342
18
6
9
1
3
7
3
502
154
33
7
1
130
189
2
1
5
6
•2
1
208
2744
1219
92
35
23
6
918
1105
27
15
18
11
G
2
11
1 in 7. 7
1 in 183
1 in 68
1 in 8+
1 iu 6
Oin 23
Oin 6
1 in 459
1 in 100
DiarrliOLia _
274
Dyseuteria acuta
Dyson teria chronica
Enteritis
121
9
3
Hepatitis acuta __ _.....
^
Hepatitis clirouica
0. 5
91
All otlier diseases of this system. .
110
Total
891
12
2169
17
2271
44
1019
17
6350
90
lin 70
634
6142
63
lin 97
614
Cholera Asiatica. — The first remark respecting this disease, from the stations now under
consideration, occurs iu the report of Assistant Surgeon J. H. Bailey, at Fort Smith, for the
quarter ending 30th Jime, 1849, wherein that officer alludes to the prevalence of cholera upon
the Arkansas river, and to the arrival of steamers at Fort Smith with that disease on board.
Dr. Bailey remarks, that up to the date of his report there had been but "little proclivity to
the disease, either among the troops or the inhabitants of the place." Surgeon J. B. Wells,
reporting at the same time from Fort Gibson, (120 miles above Fort Smith, by the Arkansas
280 ^ .REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
river,) observes, "the cases of diarrhoea under treatment during the quarter were impressed with
the 'constitution of atmosphere,' favoring the development of epidemic cholera." In the next
quarter that officer reports 181 cases of cholera — 131 in July, and 50 in August. Of the total
number 18 died, being in the proportion of 1 to 10. In regard to this disease, Surgeon Wells
reports as follows:
"In my report of sick and wounded of 30th June last, I remarked that the cases of diarrhoea
under treatment were impressed with the constitution of atmosphere, favoring the development
of epidemic cholera. On the night of the 15th of July last (1849), four privates of the 5th
infantry were brought into the hospital, in quick succession, collapsed and pulseless, agonizing
under sjmsms, vomiting and purging rice-water-likc discharges, algid surface, tongue cold,
cyanosis of extremities and face. Death took place in each case in from six to eight hours.
Two of the cases had spasmodic or irregular contractions of the muscles for one hour after dis-
solution. The secretion of urine was entirely suppressed, and none found in the bladder after
death. Upon the admission of a c^o^eraic patient, if vomiting and purging were present, I im-
mediately exhibited a mixture composed of morphine and aromatic spirits of ammonia in cam-
phor-water; this failing, I gave four drops of creosote in mucilage, which generally composed
the stomach. From my observation of this article in chronic diarrhoea in Florida, and reflect-
ing on its strong tendency to coagulate animal juices (albumen), I determined to make trial of
it ; and the result proved entirely satisfactory. Furthermore, I was pleased to find in the July
number of the Medical Examiner, published at Philadelphia, a report of two cases of cholera,
by Surgeon C. A. Finley, U. S. A., who makes the following remarks: "Creosote was given
to check emcsis, and with good effect." The stomach being quieted for the moment, I threw
into it 9 1 of calomel and 10 grs. of camphor, combined. This was repeated, if necessary, in
one hour, and then its administration was regulated by the discbarges — their frequency and
color; if for the former, one-half the dose for each discharge; and as soon as any co?or was per-
ceived in the discharges, that remedy was gradually discontinued ; for, with such a discharge,
reaction was sure to succeed, recovery to dawn, and convalescence to follow. Quinine was then
introduced into the system, to maintain the action of the heart, and aperients to work off the
mercury. In cases where the pulse was the merest quiver, internal and external stimulants
were freely used, conjoined with the above treatment. The body was covered with hot mustard
cataplasms, and the spinal column freely irritated with hot si)irits of turpentine."
In March, 1850, Assistant Surgeon J. H. Bailey again notes the fact of occasional cases of
cholera, brought in boats to the landing at Fort Smith, and adds tliat the disease did not spread
in town or garrison. This immunity, however, appears to have had its limit, for we find the
disease prevailing there in the following spring. From the official report of Acting Assistant
Surgeon N. Spring, it apjjcars that on the 31st of May two companies of the 5th infantry ar-
rived at Fort Smith from Corpus Christi, Texas, having the cholera, which had broken out two
or three days before their arrival at that post. "Tlie sick (says Dr. Spring) were placed in
the hospital, while the troops encamped upon the bank of the river, 150 yards distant there-
from, and two hundred yards from the barracks. No case occurred in the barracks until the
night of the 4tb of June, when five men were violently seizetl with the disease. These were
rapidly followed by others, of which a few were of a highly aggravated character, but the major
part of less intensity and malignancy. The men first attacked belonged to company E, 5th
infantry, which occui>ied large, well-ventilated, and commodious brick quarters, and it was in
this company the most violent cases occurred. These men had been at no post, for years, where
cholera prevailed. Company F, 7th infantry, were in wooden sheds, adjoining the quarters
occupied by the first mentioned company. Among them no deaths occurred; the cases were of
a mild type, and readily yielded to prompt treatment. This company had been at Baton
Kouge and Jeflerson Barracks at a time when cholera prevailed at those posts, and, in both
instances, almost entirely escaped its ravages. The fact of the men's being, in a manner, habit-
uated to the presence of the epidemic, had, I have no doubt, and I think the facts bear out the
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
281
inference, a decidedly beneficial influence. On the 6th of June companies B and K, of the 5th
infantry, were removed into the country, and on the next day company E went to the same
encampment. From that time the disease abated within the limits ot the post; but few other
cases occurred, and but one fatal one. Company F, 7th infantry, cleansed the quarters vacated
by company E, of the 5th, and removed into them soon afterwards, without experiencing any
ill effects. In connexion with what may be almost termed the escape of company F, 7th infan-
try, from the cholera, and the mooted question 'Is cholera contagious?' I cite the following
fact: Of the attendants who waited on the cholera sick of the post command, about fifteen in
number, seven liad the disease, of whom two died, and four others barely escaped death."
The treatment is not specially given ; in one case, mention is made of bleeding to six ounces,
with happy effect. The patient recovered.
Two or three cases occurred in the town on the 9th of June, but no other cases are noted as
occurring there until about the 24th of that month, when the disease, having nearly disappeared
from the garrison, reappeared among the citizens with increased violence, and at the date of
Dr. Spring's report (July 5th) it was still raging.
DISEASES OF THE KESPIEATGRY SYSTEM.
Quarters
Streugtli
10,
195
10,
D90
10,
326
8,
540
10,
313
rmportion of
cases
g 3
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
i'3
Bronchitis acuta et chronica. _
Catarrhus _-__.
90
679
7
80
91
24
2
9
1
7
43
460
9
67
37
19
1
9
3
1
23
303
2
51
17
14
1
1
3
2
3
54
456
2
33
17
10
1
4
3
210
1898
20
231
162
67
4
2
25
1
15
4
1 in 52
1 in 949
1 in 231
1 in 10.8
1 in 17
20
189
2
23
16
All other diseases of this sys-
tem
6
Total
971
19
635
14
410
10
572
8
2588
51
1 in 51
258
Rheumatismus
358
1
328
1
258
266
1210
2
1 in 605
121
In the winter of 1846-'47, pneumonia, of an exceedingly congestive and fatal character,
occurred among the Arkansas volunteers stationed at Fort Smith, and also aflected the regular
force at that station, though in a less degree. The cases occurring among the regulars only,
are given in the abstract. The following statement respecting this disease, as it occurred
among the volunteers, is taken from the report of Assistant Surgeon J. H. Bailey, for the quar-
ter ending March Slst, 1847 :
" The autumn and early part of winter were very mild. The average daily mean of the
thermometer in November was 55.03, and in December 4G.62. Cold weather set in on the 7th
January. Thermometer at 10°. The weather was extremely variable through January, Feb-
ruary, and March ; the thermometer often vai-ying, from one morning observation to the next,
from 10° to 38°. The spring was at least three weeks more backward than usual. A strong
disposition to bronchitis and catarrhal aft'ections existed among the troops during the whole of
December, but mostly not of a character to excite any appreliensiou of the fearful epidemic
which so speedily followed. After the 7th January, catarrhal aft'ections assumed a more obsti-
S. 96 36
282 heport on the sickness and mortality — southern division.
nate character. Pneumonitis soon took the place of bronchitis; and whether the patient was
seized with bronchitis, diarrhwa, intermittent lever, or any otlier disease calculated materially
to affect the system, lung alfection was sure to follow. Pneumonia was often ushered in by a
severe chill, from which the patient would sometimes never react; others assumed an actively
inflammatory character from the first; hut more frequently a depressing influence on the circu-
latory system was observed tliroughout the whole course of the disease. Many were seized with
pain in the nape of the neck and cerebellum, attended with giddiness, redness of the con-
junctivae, and delirium. These were the worst cases. Others with pain at the extremity of a
nerve, speedily following it to its source. In all the various manners of attack, pain in the
lungs and difficult respiration soon followed, and, when fatal, the patient died suffocated — the
same as those whose lungs were primarily affected. In one case — that of a destitute citizen,
which proved fatal — I found the whole surface of the cerebellum intensely inflamed. From all
I have seen and heard of tliis, and other epidemics of a similar character, I am inclined to the
belief that the origin of the pneumogastric nerves may be involved, and defective innervation
of the lungs a cause of their strong predisposition, to disease. At all events, it is certain that
depletory treatment is not to be relied on to the same extent that it is in pneumonia of the
north, even making due allowances where the disease is engrafted on systems previously under
the deprsssing influence of malarious diseases, and, in all cases, for the debilitating influences of
climate. Venesection has been resorted to in all those cases where sufficient reaction and
strength of constitution existed to justify resorting to it, and, followed by topical bleeding and
blistering, by opium and calomel, doubtless saved a good number of patients; and in some in-
stances, where reaction was not well established, venesection was tried with the happiest effects;
but, as a general rule, where the vital powers were low, especially when broken down by ex-
cessive use of stimulants, and holding their lives on such feeble tenures as did many of those I
had to treat, we must seek for other jjowerful^ prompt, and efficient remedial means than the
lancet, or the patient speedily dies suffocated. For, while depressing the circulatory system
with the lancet, the lungs are fast filling up, and the vital powers on the wane. Large doses
of quinine were of no utility. Small doses seemed in some instances beneficial in bolstering up
the patient. Emetics, especially of sulph: zinc and copper, often gave temporary relief. Calo-
mel was always decidedly beneficial, and opium of more use than all other remedies together."
The reports from this region frequently allude to a non-syphilitic bubo, which is of common
occurrence, more particularly in the commands at Forts Smith and Gibson. Assistant Surgeons
Baily, Abadie, and McCormick speak of its persistent and unyielding character. The disease
appears to depend upon some obscure affection of the lymphatic system, and to be excited by
slight strains and exposure to cold. The treatment most useful, is by iodine and its compounds,
externally as well as internally. The disease is known among the people as " the Arkansas
groin." When treated with mercury, as a syphilitic affection, the results are great general
emaciation, with suppuration and undermining the skin in every direction — a condition which
it is found exceedingly difficult to relieve.
ABSTRACTS
PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
OCCUKKING AMONG THE TEOOPS
SOUTHERN DIVISION.
284
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCTJRRINO
Years
FIRST aUARTEB.
1839.
1840.
184L
1842.'
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
48.
48.
97.
438.
445.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
1
17
1
1
2
4
1
1
Ervsincliis
1
4
5
1
1
2
5
10
4
1
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
gestive system.
1
1
2
4
6
10
11
All other diseases of this system '
3
3
4
4
19
2
1
79
65
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
1
1
2
1
1
3
1
1
1
6
1
3
4
1
I
1
1
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
1
1
3
1
3
1
6
1
....
Diseases of the urinar>'
and genital organs.
1
2
Diseases of the serous t
and exhalent vessels, i
Diseases of the fibrous 8c
1
22
8
3
muscular structures.
Fj^nila
Pldo"nion et abscessus
2
10
7
16
1
1
nicus
2
7
5
2
12
6
1
1
Wounda and injuries
Sub-Iuxntio
5
8
5
9
1
4
1
Vulnus sclopcticum
1
Debititas
1
7
3
1
Miscellaneous -j
1
14
■■■;■■ ;::;;:i
10
11
19
25
30
46
22
250
212
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISrON.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE SOUTH ATLANTIC EEGION.
285
FIRST QUARTER.
1
1845. 1846. 1 1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853. I 1854.
STRENGTH.
402. 151.
21.
49.
179.
82. 242.
402.
91. 77.
2,772.
Cases
Died
Cases. Died. Cases-! Died. Cases
' ' 1 1
Died
Cases
Died. Cases
I 1
. Died
' 1
Cases. Died. Cases. Died
i
Cases. Died. Cases
Died
Total
] cases.
Total
died.
...J..
3
1
1
1
1
15
5
2
1
1
] 1 1
7
13
S3
16
._.__.!___.
6
11
5
5
5
1
= !
! 1
2
1
1
1 3
9
1
1
I
4
1
1
'
j 1
5
3
3
[
1
: 3
9
7
1
3
3
2
1
2
1
1
1
6
1
1
49
29
S
3
2
i '
2
1
1
I
11
17
1
65
2
1
1
1
2
1
6
1
30
62
8
291
2
9
2
2
14
14
5
1
6
39
3
27
4
16
1
5
1
10
1
3
1
2
1
1
1
10
9
6
8
4
1
4
1
2
2
1
4
5
2
1
1
1
1
'
1
3
5
1
1
1
2
S
1
4
,
I
4
1
...
4
1
1
7
1
4
2
5
1
1
.... 1...
1
4
2
1 2
, 1 t
"1
2
2
1
9
7S
14
1
3
.
3 i
10
2
6
8
2
1
13
1
6
4
4
2
13
2
1
22
6
3
7
2
93
28
S
3
6S
11
2
2
28
30
16
3 1
2
6
22
3
1
8
33
1
1
1
■A
1
10
1
1
2
1
10
2
3
2
1 !
1
2
4 ;
1
1
1
1
1
5
8
1
:::::: ::::'i
1
4
1
1
1
2
4
2
2
1
6
3
1
1 i
1
(
1
'
1
1
2
1
i
1
3
3
i
;
5
;
'
s
■
!
1 1
::::: z.jz.j""i
1
'
1
.... 1 '
5
3
1
9n
4
1
8
1
1
1
1
12
1 !
3
112 2
J
2 2
3
1
6
'
2
205 ] 52 1
1 1
31 2 j 22 1
109
1
40
94
3 114
19 43
1,289 ' 6
286
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF ITiE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
SECOND QUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841. j 1842.
1843. 1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
48,
SO.
S3. 1
123. 1 483.
433.
! 1
1 t
SPECIFIC DISEASES. Oases. Died. iCases. Died.
1
Cases. Died. .Cases.
Died. Oases.
1
Died. Cases.
Died.
f
i
1
1 ' 1
.1 , ! w
S!4
4
1
1
9 1
1
1
S
Fevers ■
! 1
3
1
1
:::::j
9
1
3 1
Eruptive fevera j
1
I
■■■;■■ :;.::;i
1
j
6 1 ! 2
8
18
2
2
66
19
37
13
1
a
1
1
2
7
13
1
31
1
3
11
25
7
R
8
1
6
4
29
Diseases of the respira-
1 Pleuritis
2
1
1
3
;::::.i
All other diseases of this system
2
1
1
1
1
—
Cephalalgia
4
a
Diseases of the brain and
2
1
1
i
2
i
1
7
1
4
1
r
Gonorrhoea
2
1
1
1
Diseases of the urinary
and geaital organs.
Syphilis primitiva
1
2
1
1
■■V"
4
Diseases of the serous and <
1
1
exlialeut vessels. i
Diseases of the fibrous &
muscular structures.
Pernio
Podagra
1
19
Rheumatismus, acutus et chronicus
4
8
Abscesses and ulcers. . . .
Fistula
3
2
2
3
2
13
1
i
Concussio cerebri
1
2
18
3
S
6
18
1
7
Fractura
1
1
1
1
1
Wounds and injuries..,.
1
Sub-luxatio
4
8
3
6
2
1
Vulnus incisuin
5
5
Vulnus laceratum
2
1
1
19
2
2
^ Vulnus sclopeticum
Debilitas
25
Ebrietas
1
3
Hsemorrbois
1
1
1
Hernia
Miscellaneous ■
1 Morbi cutis
1
1
1
2
35
2
24
2 j 1
10 1 1
Morbi oculi
1
1
All other diseases '
4
!■■;;•■
1
1
3
Total
36
1
28
78
44
K6
1
258 ' a
1
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION.
287
SECOND aUAKTER. i
1845.
1846.
1847. 1 1848.
1
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852. 1853.
1854.
STRENGTH.
422.
141.
»92. 87.
151.
69.
230.
138. j 70.
73
2,875.
Cases.
Died.
ceases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Total
cases.
Tolal
died.
9
4
1
1
2
3
5
i
1
1
3
44 1
3
14
1
4
1
1
1
39
34
10
31
2
3
3
8
!
1
: ,"
10
3
a
9
4
1
1 1 2
1
j
1
1
1
l";-";-;-|
1
8 i ■;
i
5
1
23
10
1
10
15
8
1
5
6
14
2
4
7
7
8
3
1
1
3
1
204
101
4
2
2
2
1
:::::: i
1
:::::::::::: .:.::.i
...... ......j
1
13
43
7
4
4
8
2
3
3
2
1
1
50
5
1
4
1
1
3
1
3
2
121
1
6
7 1
38
1
10
2
4
1
13
4
2
165
8
11
3
5
13
16
1
2
1
4
3
1
1
1
3
1
2
2
1
3
1
3
1
2
1 i
1
............
3
6
1
2
4
1
2
1
1
2
8
7
35
2
1
3
7
1
1
1
1
1
3
2
2
1 j
10 '
i.""
1
^
1
3
I
1
15
1
1
1
...
1
S
2
83
1
72
15
2
3
79
6
2
1
26
44
8
5
3
47
18
5
4
19
64
4
92
21
1
6
1
1
14
1
3
1
7
3
a
6
2
11
7
16
3
2
2
1
. ,
3
1
1
9
3
1
2
1
1
5
1
3
3
2
i 3
1
2
4
2
1
1
1
3
1
1
j
2
4
1
3
1 •
1
2
1
1
1
3
1
1
1
1
o
i
I
3
1
3
1
1
1 i
1
2
1
6
1
11
i
1
3
3
3
1
3
2
1
I
1
17
4
i
8
1
11
3
6
I
3
253
3
79 6 76
1 102
31
1
86
1
40
23 j
33
1,575
15
288
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRlNa
Years
THIRD QUAKTER.
183!).
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
48.
50. M. 31)3. 449. 410.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases. Died.
1
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases,
Died. 'Cases, Died.
1 1
\
1
9
3
9
5
1 2
n
5
4
23
19
7
8
1
5
F ve i
4
1
1
41
1
3
I
17
.. .
1
3
1
1
r
1
a
Iluheola .
1
1
^'"''"™''"'' 1
4
1
2
1
9
1
4
3
1 30
60
25
15
6
5
1
17
Diseases of the organs
connected with tlie di-
[
gestive system.
1
9
1
1
14
11
10
24
1
172
All other diseases of this system
3
a
9
66
1
' 24
2
3
6
13
1
1
;::::: '.
.'
Diseases of the respira- J
;
; 1
torj' system.
L
2
4
1
2
Diseases of the brain and
J
1
5
nervous system.
1
2
1
;
6
1
1
7
1
4
4
1
3
"""I,,.:..
Diseases of the urinary
3
1
and genital organs.
1
2
4
1
3
»
Diseases of tlie serous i
1
Diseases of the fibrous Si
muscular structures.
i...
1
9
18
I '
Fistula
i
1
3
9
3
9
13
3
3
10
1
13
::::::
1
5
6
1
1
1
1
Wounds and injuries,... ■
1
3 6
IS 10
4
4
4
1
2
Vulnus laceratuin
1
3
1
Vulnus punciuni
i
1
1
1
2
4
.
Dcbiiitas
J " ;
13
1 5
1
3 ......1 4
1
a
2
Miscellaneous
1 .
1
3
4
R
SI
3
11
1
. :::::: \
6
1
11
...:„! 38 1
90 5
Total
59
5
R!>
977 548 6 258
4
: ' '1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION.
289
THIRD aUARTEIl.
1845. 1 1846. 1847.
1848.
1849. 1850. i 1851. 1852.
1853.
1854.
STKESGTll.
389. 154. 160
i
30. 1 119.
44. 373.
72.
44.
104.
2,736.
Cascs.l Died, 'cascs
1
Died. Cases. Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.! Died.
i
Cases Died. Cases.
1 1
Died.
Cascs
Died.
I '
Cascs. Died. Cascs. Died.
1
Total Total
cascs. died.
')
5
1
3
3
IS
73
1
3
3
6
t
5 ' M
6
3
3
2
1
1
64
2
sx::::.
9
17
4
36
5
24
4
164 3
_ ll _ _
14 2
r ■■■
1
1
5
.... 1 . " _____ i_ 1
5
1
j ■ ■
i
4 I
'
33
8
24
1 70
1
13
4
1
42
13
1
2
4
19
320 2
78
6
:' 1 1 i
" 1
! 1 ■ 1
1
1 1
ai
34
: 12
'■ Q
19
37
1
1
[
4
1
1
4
95
! 1 '
3
14
2
18
1
3
2
6
3
196 1
■^
4 2
10
3
6 ' 38 .1
3
2
307 1
1 1
8 ■
1
1
3
3
3
1
:::::: ■:::::::::j:;:::;
1
1
1 ' 1
6
1
>
1
3
2
1
1
1
27
1 9_
3
11
.1
1
r,
9
1
4
1
1
3
2
2
2
1
9 2
3 I
,
4
4
1
9
1
2
51
1
4
2
2 ' '
3
20
3
1
( 1
,
1
3
I
6
' 1 1
14
i 2 ' '....
1 '
3 1
'■ i
1
7
' i
12
i 1
6 6 3 2 1 1 fi
7 1 1
2
76
1
10 1 1 fi
2
8
1
7
1
...... 22
4
4 j 9
19
I
112
23
11
Si
2
3
4
2
4
4
11
5
10
1
10
5
1 2
5
o
1
3
3
9
4
1
3
26
75
6
S
3
1
1
1
28
1
1
1
]
1
1
9
1
12
I __;
1
1 .1
1
3
1
3
3
7
1 .•)
1
9
2
6
1 1
17
1
3
3
.:::::t:::::;,::;::
fi
13
1
3
6
1
S
1
31
61
1
■ '
1
,
6
3
■■■;•■ ; 'si::::::
.T
17
2
1
2
It
I<u
1
184
i
123 1 1 262 1
36 j 77 1 j 60 2 240
49 !
16 1 1 101 i 2,362 16
! 1 1
S. 96 37
290
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE FRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
FOURTH QUARTER.
1839. 1840.
1841. 1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mk AN STRENGTH
48.
403.
Am.
348.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Ca.<es. Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Ciuca.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Pebris continua communis
2
1
2
G
5
15
1
2
2
10
6
Fcbris intermittens rjuotidiana
10
28
8
1
1
... ! ■■■■!..■■■
Ertiplive fevers -
Kuheula
1
Searlatina
i '
Diarrhtea j
1
33
15
28
9
1
6
2
Diseases of the organs
connccied with the di-
gestive system.
Enteritis
"1
1
1
G
5
1
44
Obstipatio
13
12
3
5
38
1
20
1
All other diseases of this system
2
10
fiO
Diseases of the res])ira-
Phthisis pulmonalis
tory system.
3
1
I
1
2
3
1
3
1
Cephalalgia
4
2
2
2
1
Diseases of iho hniiiiand
nervous system.
Epilepsia
Neuralgia
1
I
All other diseases of this system... .
2
1
4
1
1
3
1
2
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
1
2
Syphilis primitiva
Syphilis consecutiva
I
5
2
2
Diseases of the serous (
Ascites
and exhalent vessels, i
Podagra
•
18
7
11
Fistula
Abscesses and ulcers,... •
Phlegmon et ahsccssus
....
8
2
13
R
15
. 2
Ulcus
1 1 1
1
16
Contnsio ■
13
1
1
5
6
10
2
1
..!..::::::
Wounds and injuries.... -j
t
4
2
1
3
1
2
10
4
11
Vuhius laceratum
2
1
L
Vulnus sclopeticum
1 Debilitas
1
2
1
26
2 ::::::
1 ;
2
1
Hernia
1
1
1
■'
1
4
12
1
22
i
....I...
23
3
1
Total
29
321
2
231
1
176
1
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION.
291
FOURTH
QUARTER
1845. 1846. 1847. 1848.
1849. 1850. ' 1851. 1852. i 1853.
1854.
STRENGTU.
149. 66. 263. 149.
59. 1 150.
482. I 106. 59.
102.
2,818.
Uases.
1
Died. Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died. Cases. Died. Cdses. Died. Cascs.l Died. Oases.
II, 1
Died. jCases. Died. Cases. Died. Icases.' Died.
• 1 ■
Total Towl
cases, died.
8
1
1
1
1 I
1
3
3
1
1
14
1
4
o
1
1
5
1 1
21
70
17
61
1 in
f;
.1
1
1
'" I ■ -
° 1 "
t
___.
10 e
'
3 1 4 2 1 5
1
1
a
1
4
4
32 4
i
m i
1
'■
! 1 .
j
!
8
9
2
1
24
7
14
a
4
18 i 1 23 1
1 10 3
1
34
3
203
57
•;
1
1
78
86
16
212
8
6
4
2
13
10
7
6
a
6 13 1
2
'
1
1 1
5
11
8
1
3
2
4
1
2
2
■
1 1 i
1
4
I
2
24
1
4
2
2
1
2
3
1 1 3
4
1 17
2
o
1
4
4
17
1
1
7
12
1
1
3
11
3
... i----
1
1
1
1
2
2
a
1
1
1
1
1
I
2
1
9
.. 1
..:::::::::
1
3
I
4
8
2
1
4
2
1
45
3
2
5
3
1
::::rv
1
as
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
1
15
2
2
1
6 1
1
1
4
4
1 2
1
7
3
7
5
1
70
1
3
3
1
2
' ; ^
3 1 6
2
2
2
23
95
1 5
27
■ ■■
I
!
1
1
4
1
1
3
h '
3
2 5
1 1
14
79
1
5 1
1
1
1
.J
1
2
4 ''
1 1
>
: 1
2 1 4
2 ' 9
1
,
33
!
,
38
•2
10 ' ' 1
1 1
17
2
4 ' 1
1
12 I
1
o
1
2 1 1
1
1
13
1
......
11 2
1
1
1
2
49
1 -*
1 ,
r'
10
3
5
1
1 1 ' 3
..
1
i
1
9
4
i 1
5
1
35
6
1
1
3
12
r.:..i
6
! '"T
1 19
' 2 1
t 1
5
9t<
1
64
1 76 134 1 1 80 1 1 ' 24
83
4 1 179
1
5 f 67
4 38
142
1 I 1,644 21
292
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
FIRST QUARTER.
1839. 1840. ^ 1841. ! 1842.
1843.
1844.
1
400. 914.
266.
387.
909.
887.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.. Died.
Cases.' Died.
^ases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
1
1
1
2
1
1
34
1 Fi'hris interniilt<-ns i|iintu)iana
20
40
2
16
7
72
36
15
1
46
76
I
i
Febris reniittcns
"V
3 ! 1 ' 4
3
1
1
1 ■ 1
' Rubeola
1
1
1
' i
1
!
1 I
29
11
2
1
21
2
16 ' 68
2
22
10
1
1
22
33
33
1
27
6
pise.ises of the organs
connected with the di-
gestive system.
2
1
1
1
1
1
9
35
7
19
2
53
2
6
4
4
8
4
15
6
1
18
28
1
61
1
4
1
1
10
5
2
1
2
4
All other diseases of this system
1
5
18
1
I
1
1
19
54
Diseases of ilie respira-
tory system.
Phthisis pulmonalis
3
3
4
2 1
1
Ophalalyia
8
1
5
1
8
2
1
1
4
4
4
2
7
1
3
1
4
1
3
1
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
1
1
1
All other diseases nt this system ...
1
3
1
1
5
6
3
Dificase^ ut the uriiiarj
and genitiil organs.
1
1
2
4
5
Diseases of the serous/
AH other diseases of this class
S
1
1
2
1
Diseases of tlie fibrous &
muscular structures.
f
Abscesses and ulcers.... ^
1
Rlieumatismus, acutus ct chronicus
12
1
3
9
3
8
12
24
1
5
9
24
31
I'hlegnion et abscessus
Ulcu-*
5
2
3
4
18
11
4
1
48
20
8
2
Concussio cerebri
4
1
16
22
5
1
28
2
2
1
1
10
11
1
VVnunds and injuries....
Sub luxalifi... .
16
14
13
12
S
10
12
2
1
1
1
2
1
Debilitas
1
2
5
8
4
Ebrietas ,
9
12
1
4
1
2
2
7
1
2
12
1
1
Miscellaneous
1
8
3
9
2
13
2
12
1
1
9
1
10
4
20
26 1
Total
304
6
111
2
210
3
339
6
454
2
431
3
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE SOUTH INTERIOR— EAST.
293
FIRST QUARTER.
AGGREGATE
STBENGTn.
1815.
1846.
184Y.
1848.
1849. 1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
1,634.
362.
339.
143.
262.
124.
208.
394.
143.
64.
6,425.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases 1 Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
•
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total Total
eases. | died.
1 ' 1
1
37
79
1
9
,
1
5 1
8
16
1
30
13
1
2
7
6
3
:::::.r"8"
' 5
19
10
3
8 i
1
1
212
407
2
5
11
1
43
1
1 2
4 1
2
'
.... 1
2
13
1
13
1
4
6
3
1
1
4
372
160
14
5
1
78
36
1
1 "
1 1
1
49
ID
1
2
3
10
1 15
15
6
2
2
9
3
4
-"
1
I
1
a
1
1
1
1
2
46
58
5
98
3
11
1 I
...........
5
1
6 1 4
............
8
6
3
11
4 1 1
2
1
2
1
134
7
2
11
X
7
2
19
1
2
1
1
3
3
3
12
1
2
3
178
31
36S
8
45
32
6
72
2
4
7
!
1
; 2
1 1 1
1
1
5
1
U
10
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
3
2
2
1
1
1
31
30
3
1
1
33
2
16
3
8
1
1
2
7
1
1
1
1
57 ' 2
1
la
4
1
'
10
3
3
1
1
11
1
6
L .
13 1 1
7
1 1 9
2
i
89 ......
1 1
4
I
1
1
A
3
1 1 : ,
1
36
"
1
2
1
15
I...."'i.....
21
1
1
1
■
1
8 2
■■|
j
i
1
[
!
I
58
7
6
3
8
2
1 3
11
i ^
1
3
1
213
3 '
46
27
10
3
4
6
10
3
2
6
3
2
1
1 4
10
3
3
1 2
138
94
I "
1
23
\
5
63
2
1
3
1
9
2
4
1
6
10
1
2
2
217 1
11 !
1
1
6
1
""\
1
2
19
16
1
6
1
7
48
13
3
8
23
5
1
3
3
4
1
3
2
10
3
2
1
1
81
100
12
13
13
33
101
37
13
"
84
3
197
4
1
1
1
1 "
1
1
1
...
1
9
3
7
1
i
1
3
... 1
2
1
3
3
1
2 1
1 !
3
3
1
4
3
4
1
1
3
1
1
1
j j
j 1
1
1
2
i 1
3
1
4
. . 1
58
9
10
3
9
7
5
14
1 i 4
1
3
993
2
135
1
361
5
22
3
137
1
71
78
2 1 159
3 1 47
1
38
3,780
39
294
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE riUNCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
SECOND QUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
429.
305.
183.
426.
800.
1,598.
. SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Coses. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died. Cases.
1
Died.
Cases
Died.
1
2
1
40
SO
14
58
' 3
41
54
124
4
31
Febris interniittuns teriiana
16
9
20
5
11
26
S
1
■4
7
Eruptive fevers ■
1
10
Rubeola
1
154
20
2
42
23
1
10
8
94 1 48
50 Vi
9
89
120
1
1
1
'
Diseases of tlie orgjins
1
1
connected with the di-
2
1
gestive system.
1
5
6
1
18
36
1
60
1
8
9
2
8
8
1 K
36
85
1
36
4
7
2
All other diseases of this system
31
8
32
7
4
25
1 1 2
1
1
Diseases of the respira-
6
7
3
tory system.
1
1
44
23
1
2
3
38
1
1
18
11
1
1
4
1
1
3
1
13
7
2
4
1
1
2
nervous system.
Neuralgia
1
1
r
1
8
7
1
4
1
3
1
Striciura urethrn^
1
1 ::::::i
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
Syphilis priniiiiva
3 1
1
3
4
9
3
6
All other diseases of Uiis class
4
1
1
2
1
exhalcnt vessels. '
Diseases of tlie fibrous &
muscular structures.
Abscesses and ulcere . . . . '
All other diseases of this class
2
■
1
9
1
1
1
Podagra
i
1 Rheiimatismus, aculus ct chronicus
18
10
S
12
23
1
14
4
2
46
8
11
1
2
1
17
7
1
23
17
4
Ulcus
I
4
Amputalio
5
9
5
34
21
1
4
12
14
1
2
48
1
. 9
12
18
Wounds and injuries.... .
Luxatio
Sub-tu.vatio
12
aa
5
2
8
1
Vulnus iiicisuni
3
8 ^
3 ;
4
Vulnus punctuiii
Dcbililas '
1
3
1
3
5
4
2
14
8
13
9'
4
1
30
1
66
1
98
1
3
5
U
1
2
1
10
6
1
3
2
!
Hu>uiurrhois
6
1
4
10
Miscellaneous
Morbi cutis
4
I
4
Scorbutus
All other diseases
6
a
27
3
102
1
404
2
441
4
1,046
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE SOUTH INTERIOR.— EAST.
295
SECOND aUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847. 1848.
1
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
8TEESGTH.
1.759. 1
71.
71. 18.
271.
122.
135.
141.
125.
85.
6,439.
Cases.
Died.
Oases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
1
Cases.
Died.
!7ases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.; J-' To^l
3
50
169
i
1
4
.7 1
2
1
4
9
1
5
5
3
11
11
; 2
11
12
13
11
IS
8
1
3
3
242
498
15
123
2
9
10
1
32
694
409
13
3
7
3
201
331
Si
310
8
33
10
8
180
70
17
18
8
107
5
40
14
25
2
7
23
1 ;
5
1
6
S
:::::::::::
1
■ ■■■|
1
1
1
1
4
2 1
....:.■;■■■
2
1
::::::...::.
............
1
32
31
6
2
9
:::::::"":
9
313
96
2
1
15
2
2
, 3
4
7
21
3
1
1
13
7
13
4
2
14
4
1
1
1
7
1.
.'
1
2
2
93
143
2
7
3
1
1
6
9
4
2
10
2
3
1
7
4
2
7
2
2
1
1
1
4
2
1
1
134
1
6
4
2
77
19
8
7
2
27
1
11
6
1
1
1
2
2
2
3
1
1
7
1
I
5
4
5
3
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
10
S
2
1
1
1
1
2
1 i
1
4
3
8
2
1
l'
1
1
2
1
1
2
■
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
t ]
91
3
66
26
4
4
12
2
15
1
S
1
1
4
]
3
1
S
248
6
155
88
17
2
1
969
7
9
89
112
20
14
5
31
143
50
1
13
4
3
3
3
8
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
137
2
1
34
27
6
2
2
11
66
18
12
14
25
3
90
1
1
2
1
3
1
2
1
...
1
1
5
3
1
2
1
3
5
4
4
1
1 :
i
1
1 ■■
1
1
2
1
4
1
1
1
3
1
7
3
1
3
3
.
4
1
2
I
1
1
1
2
3
1
a
1
4
1
1
•Jfi
1
1
1
33
1
1
3
1
6
1
3 1
95
8 1 1
24
2
' 2 1
1 I
6
6
3
1
4
270 j
1,856
5
79
92
1 1 16 1
j
2J7
9
77
94
1
85
1
70
1
66
3
5,406
40
296
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OP THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Yearb
THIRD QUARTER.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
1839. 1840.
1841.
1842. 1843.
1844.
MCAN STRRNGTH
380.
290. 133.
487. 903.
1,799.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases
Died. Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Febris congestiva
1
1
1 27
1
2
45
169
190
4
44
1
Febris conlinua communis
7
20
Febris intfrriiitteiis qiii>tiiliana
30
19
1
16
' 106
fit
Fevers {
14
12
37
2
34
1
1
3
36
Febris tyjiliiis
7
18
5
20
9
KrysJipelas
1
::::::i i
f
98
40
1
2
1
27
14
1
21
17
70
1
42
35
3
2
1
1
13
35
1
190
1
7
1
149
58
1
19
5
Diseases of ihe organs
Uysenieria chronica
connected with the di-.
1
6
gCfitive system.
1
3
1
42
78
5
48
1
23
1
3
55
16
1
4
7
21
1
10
2
1
3
21
1
1
6
4
1 01
All other (iiseases of this system
Bronchitis, acuta et clironica
33
21
1
13
25
3
4
1.
3
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
1
3
neuritis
1
1
I
1
1
3
1
1
1
I
11
21
2
7
2
7
1
2
3
3
13
1
Diirieases of the brain and,
Epilepsia
nervous system.
All other diseases of this system
1
2
r
2
3
6
1
Strictura urethra?
Diseases of the urinary
Syphilis primitiva
5
1
and genital organs.
1
1
1
2
2
2
9
1
Diseases of tlie serous .
and exhalent vessels. [
Ascites
2
1
Diseases of tlie fibrous &
Pernio
Abscesses and ulcers.... ]
Rheumatismus, acutus Pt ehrnnicus
Phlegmon et abscessus
9
26
10
1
12
14
5
3
1
4
1 14
39
10
32
34
4
6
58
72
15
14
Ulcus
3
Amputatio
1
30
Conlusio
12
8
2
38
1
54
3
1
19
31
2
G
Fractura
1
14
10
5
4
5
3
2
Suli-lu\alio
10
12
6
1
Vulnus puuctuin
1
3
4
1
1
2
3
2
1
3
6
9
4
2
2
14
2
30
1
22
47
r
2
3
10
1
98
Elirictas
22
1
Ila-morrhois
Hernia
Morbi cutis
4
7
4
3
8
7
Morbi oculi
All other diseases
5
5
4
1
17
Total
399
5
209
6
120
8
557
3
756
17
1 438
5
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POST'S IN THE SOUTH INTERIOR-
SOUTHERN DIVISION.
-EAST.
297
' THIKD aUARTER.
18t5.
1S46. ' 1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENGTH.
413.
200.
102.
133.
208.
140.
99.
130.
90.
78.
5,583.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.! Died. Casea.
! 1
Died.
Cases.! Died.
Cases.
Died!
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total
cases.
Total
died.
5
1
1
1
36
61
549
464
33
180
2
118
4
5
.....
7
13
5
2
13
11
4
1
56
51
56
4
10
4
6
9
3
6
13
14
18
17
23
13
12
5
9
4
1
16
5
3
1
1
14
3
1
1
17
10
38
2
1
1
•
•
3
19
8
3
3
656
244
22
17
7
3
126
248
15
300
14
40
3
50
27
48
4
8
1
3
44
6
12
2
1
1
12
9
3
12
3
22
1
1
24
3
11 j
1
7
1
5
6
1
1
3
::::::.....
1
1
2
5
3
3
4
5
18
4
9
1
5
1
2
7
7
5
4
5
3
3
4
3
3
3
5
3
1
2
1
1
3.
3
3
1
3
1
15
1
3
3
a
:::::::::::
8
1
1
....
2
7
8
1
1
1
8
130
45
U
13
20
2
4
2
3
2
1
1
8
1
1
1
1
2
7
2
5
...
1
2
1
3
1
2
2
1
1
1
4
1
I
8
1
2
1
3
1
64
2
7
2
1
3
5
1
1
2
29 '
1
5
16
6
5
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
!
1
'
19
9
13
3
6
11
23
2
G
1
I
12
4
4
23
3
5
14
6
1
4
6
2
1
1
9
2
3
14
194
280
94
27
2
13
162
8
9
53
78
7
10
4
107
113
23
14
31
60
8
254
11
1
2
1
3
7
1
1
3
3
1
1
4
2
1
8
!
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
14
6
I
1
4
4
1
20
'
1
1
2
.3
4
2
1
2
2
6
9
27
7
2
9
2
1
3
I
1
2
4
1
1
1
1
2
1
I
1
1
5
1
30
1
1
1
9
3
1
5
1
3
1
a 1
10
5
6
5
3
367
2
aio
5
184
2
54 S
153
3
142 1
105
a
104
1
136
16
119
15
5,033
91
S. 96-
-38
298
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
FOURTH QUARTER.
1839. ,
1840.
1841. 1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
E.\SES.
308.
1
187. 119. 824. j
843.
1
1,598.
SPECIFIC DISEASES. Cascfl.
Died. Caao. Dicd.j
1 1
aases.
Died. Cases.!
Died.!
Coses.
Died '
Coses
Died.
1
1
. 1
4
3
1
ao
31
Fevers
Febris intermittens quoiidiana
Febris interniiltens lerliana. . .. ,
30
13
6
3
63
46 ''
6
14
1
.52
1
1
10
32
23
3
21
3
11
1
2
92
98
1
6
3
3
1
......
■■.:::: "
.::::: :::::
1
1
11
^
1
Eruptive fevers -
1
1
40
5
1
1
1
33_
32*
' 4
' 1
42
19
16
33
1
1
1
I
6
21
1
22
1
5
134
31
2
1
1 ;
Diseases of the organs
...!.."
connected with the di-
4
gestive system.
1
2
1
6
12
1
1
13
25
3
as
48
69
1
59
3
17
1
3
24
20
2
All other diseases of this system
G
7
a*
2
1
1
Phthisis puhnnnahs
1
4
2
1
Diseases of the resptra- ,
3
1
5
ton- system.
2
1
6
1
5
1
2
4
8
2
1
1
3
2
3
3
»
1
1
16
1
5
1
1
nervous system.
1
1
1
1
All other diseases of this system
.. .
1
1
1
2
7
1
2
1
2
16
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
Diseases of the serous ,
and exhalent vessels, i
Diseases of the fibrous &. <
muscular structures. '
Syphilis primitiva
]
1
1
1
9
7
8
Syphilis consccuiiva
1 ;
2
^
1
i
!
2
1
^ Kheuniatismus, acutus et chronicus
' Fistula
10
8
2
14
22
66
2
29
29
7
74
3
3
2
20
33
4
4
1
4
67
10
9
3
19
1
■"a"!
1
2
4
6
4
5
11
1
1
' 1
a
31
15
1
41
20
7
1
25
Ulcus
10
2
Punilio
Wounds and injuries,... ■
Suhluxatio
1
9 i
4
13'
1
3
a
3
11
4
1
10
o
i
10
Vulnus l^ceratum
...._!____
1
1 a
Debilitas
1
5
1 1
1 4
1
]
10
4
,
Ilomia
1
1
3
a
4 . ' lA
5
10
4
17
Scorbutus
1
1 1 34
2
66
....
Total
165 5
1
25.T
45
4
529
15
385
19
,1,107
6
AMONG THE TEOOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE SOUTH INTERIOR— EAST.
299
FOURTH QUARTER.
1845.
1840. 1847.
1848.
1849. 1 1830.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1834.
STRENOTQ.
236. 64. ' 154.
99.
86. KM).
190.
131.
126.
51.
5,!S8.
Coses.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.: Died.
i
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total Total
ca^es. died.
1
!
5 1 4
4
8
2
4
1
3
5
1
1
2
8
4
1
1
18 ,
9
11
6
4
1
1
283 1
2
264 1
5
1
20
. ... 4 j 1
1
17
1
2
2
:::::; v
1
86 5
4
1
1
4
5
2
74 25
.......:.
2
1
3 1
3 1
1
1
43
6
2
14
1
1
1
2
4
46 7
11
14
1
2
1
7
2
2
5
4
5
1
1 I
:
15
14
1
4
343 1 8
151 ' 1
1
'
1
9 4
1 i
3 1 1
7
2
101
156
16
200
13
38
7
9
48
48
::::::;:::::
1
10
5
1
14
4
1
.. 1 3 .
3
1
1
9
3
3
2
3
'
1
1 ^
1
6
3
1
1
4 2
1
4
1
4
1
I i
1
3
5
2
1
2
3
1 1
1
8
2
'■*'*'
1
2
2
3
1
:::::::::::
1
1
1
2
1
1
3
1
1 1 1
6
...
,
1
2 1
I
1
1
6
1
4 ...;..
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
13 5
7
1
5
2 1
63 !
1
3
4
1
2
2
1
2
24
4
1
.... 1
19
21
2
7
1
157
4
106
78
SO
186
6
8
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
3
1
1 1
10
,,,, i
!■;■■ ■•;;•■
4
1
^
1
2
2
2
4
3
1
5
1
3
1
1
a
' 1
2
4
3
4
3
1
1
2
2
2
1
1
7
i
1
1
1
1
2
1
I
1
1
; ' ' "'\
3
1
2
'....
1
1
1
1
5
2 !
5 '
1
2
1
1
1
3
46
3
81 1
' 1
2
2- 1
3
20
11
4
34
106
25
1 ■
1
'"
4
3
1 2
1
4
3
3
I
1
8
2
,,
5
1
1
.. ! 1
2
1
1
1 1
3
1
2
1
20 1
2
1
9 1
2
3
1
1
68
8
165
2
6
■
1
1
4
i
2
3
5 16
5
1 6
1
3
147
1
4
' 70
2
55
9
47
1
45
^
178
6
90
5
62
2
57
2
35
2
3,2ra
84
300
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 3.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
FIRST aUARTER.
1839. 1840.
1841.
18-f?
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
8.
EASES.
1
861. 1 1,551.
777.
5.'
956.
910.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Casea.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
S
29
61
4
Fevers ■
Frbria inlermiltens qtioiidiana
Febris inlerrnirtens: toriiana
54
69
180
88
18
U
2
3
2
87
105
1
8
53
23
141
94
15
1
1
7
Erysipelas
2
1
2
1
Gruplivc fevers
2
27
4
1
1
52
34
3
2
1
15
7
1
14
5
1
30
13
2
35
21
Dyscnti'na acuta
Diseases of l!ie organs
coimeclyd with tlie di-
1
gestive system.
6
15
32
98
1
9
9
1
1
2
1
1
24
23
U
140
2
14
6
5
3
19
4
6
2
11
2
2
2
1
5
12
2
39
7
2
2
4
9
2
4
9
24
13
2
81
22
16
9
46
1
3
2
2
2
8
6
1
9
22
1
All other diiJcases of tliis system
1
69
Diseases of tlie respira-
tory system.
PInnritis
11
2
6
3
3
2
7
5
1
All other diseases of this system
3
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
1
4
7
16
2
1
1
11
1
AH other diseases of this system
Gonorrhrea , . . .
1
1
12
9
Diseases oJ tlie urinary
Syphilis priinitiva
2
2
2
1
2
2
1
2
10
and genital orj^ans.
2
1
1
2
Diseases of the serous r
1
3
9
2
1
f
o
1
2
Diseases of the fibrous &. J
Podagra
1
S7
muscular suuciures. 1
f
Rlionniatismus, acutus et chronicus
Fisinla
29
50
1
37
19
6
1
21
la
31
Abscesses and ulcers.... \
[
Phlegmon ct abscessus
Ulcus
7
17
22
15
3
... . .,
22
7
19
20
10
19
19
4
1
21
52
1
2
24
28
2
57
1
4
«
Lii.\atio
2
Wounds and injuries..,.
1
7
10
Pub-luxatio
9
99
19
44
3
13
1
6
14
19
1
1
1
3
12
4
1
4
16
Vulnus inei^nin
*
Vulnus pimctnrn
1
5
Vulnns sclopeticum
f
Debiiilas
1
3
1
3
1
1
2
3
2
1
17
1
25
EbriPtas
2
2
2
3
3
2
6
20
8
43
Hernia
Morbi cutis
5 ;
4
^ \
Morbi oculi
3
6
41
5
.
All other diseases
Total
1
15
47
450 a
990
14
486
6
330
1
491
2
749
1
I
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE SOOTH INTERIOR— WEST.
301
FIRST QUARTER.
1845. 184G. 1847. 1848. 1849. 1850. 1851. I 1852.
1853. 1854.
STRE.NOTU.
730. 518.
346. 310. 464. 593. 383. 299. 498. 441.
10,195.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases.
i i 1
Died.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
4 ! 2
1
,
5 2 ! 15 1
97
91
6
1
Ill
20
47
10
7
14
9
18
23
2
1
1
1
70
IS
2
2
41
45
8
21
66
"^ !
74
63
2
8
1,108
'^« i
58
9
10
1
3
5
85
1
1
3 2
1
3
1
13 1
1
""
2
:::;;:::;:::::::::::::::
2
1
1
i
1
2
30
3
2M
7
16
1
2
7
2
12
1
3
5
2
3i
2
1
12
1
16
2
3
23
26
11
3
1
336
136
18
5
4
2
173
197
90
679
7
• 6
1
3
1
2
2
9
16
8
8
2
1
:
11
10
7
63
13
19
10 '
3
11
3
22
1
1
3
7
1
10
11
6
S
3
2
IS
14
12
2
18
13
13
1
61
•■■■••
6
12
1
2
2
42
......
10
2
2
2
27
9
7
3
1
4
4
3
8 1
. a
3
2
80 1
1
28
1
1
3 1 1
3
25 1
2
91 7
1 I
1
24
3
S
1
1
1
14
! 1
i 3 1 1
1
1
3 1
1
4
2 j
1 1
2
3
1
29
1 '
3
66 4
21
...
1
2
1
2
8
1
3
1
2
......
29
31
146
4
1 I
3
8
1
7
2
2
1
3
2
8
1
2
3
8
1
1
9
1
5
1
5
3
13
j 3
a
1
9
7
10 ;
2
i
43 '
2
2
1
15
4
1
1 2
52
I
1 2
'
2
6 2
1
3
3
.„
2
23
1
1
36
: 31 1 \"'^"
4
......
8
15
' " 1
11
25 7
3S8 1
n
46
11
3
1
37
1 29 18
5 6
3 n
6
15
1
17 ; 12
1 on Q
5
23 17
1 4
314
147
1
1
14
2
2
3
1
39
1
27
17
1 1
5
1 26
10
...i.
8
1
14
1 22
28
1
388 1
14 '
1
1
2
12 1
9
7
11
1
10
113
232
26
19
5
13
4
11
::;:;:i-5"
1 7
5
2
5
13
20
3
13
1
1
1
5
7
1
21
14
4
5
1
I
2
1
1
11
3
1
1 ....
1
1
11
1
2
I
"' i
::::::i....:
1
..-....' 1 1
1
1 18
7
4
5
70
2
3
,
3
35 i
(
2
1
2
3
1
16 I
3
8
1
3
3
10
2
15
4
3
59 '
11
11
4 I
7
3
11
145
24
33
38
: 14 ;
"
17
I
1 ! 10
14
: «»
15 1
409 4
576
493
2
303
2
160
2
242
6
333 3 : 218
190 2 1 436 j K2 3 6.769 53
302
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 3.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
SECOND QUARTER.
1839.
1840.
1841. 1842. 1843.
■
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
i.a
7.
1,401.
574.
1,420. 913.
904.
SPECIFIC DISEASES. '
Dases.
Died.
3ases. Died.
Cases. Died.
i
1 1 '
Qases.l Died. Cases. Died. Cases.
Died.
Febris continue communis
' Febris intermittens quotidiana
1
151 ,
1
Q
22
76 1
79 i
1
17
1
152
161
4 1
10
1
4
81 1 ,
165 1
1
30
73
4
7
179
159
7
Fevers -
6
1
1
11
10
1
^
17
4
:::::.......!
135
75
1
87
22
3
1
54
33
1
118
188
18
1
.2
1
63
18
1
1
61
20
1
129
46
1
Diseases of the organs
' i
counected with the di-
4
gestive system.
1
40
48
6
40
1
5
1
1
1
2
1
46
40
6
54
3
21
6
2
25
7
6
2
5
24
1
3
2
10
1
3
9
1
45
25
4
57
5
6
5
1
7
3
4
1
25
34
4
29
.
All other diseases of this system
33
3
9
1^
4
8
4
1
1
Diseases of the respira- 1
too' system.
3
1
2
5
2
3
3
4
1
t
i
2
10
4
4
6
5
5
3
9
1
4
1
6
Diseases of the braiii and
1
nervous system-
AU other diseases of this system.... ....
1
15
1
8
5 11
17 17
Siriciura urelhr.T
Syphili-s primiUva
1
^
Diseases of the urinary
5
2
11
3
1
3
12
2
8
and genital organs.
2
2
2
Diseases of the serous and f
1
2
2
Diseases of the iibrous &.
1
26
22
43
1
muscular structures.
Abscesses and ulcers .... J
Rheunintismu?, acutus et chronicus.....
25
5
14
42
54
21
16
2
21
10
10
3
1
27
37
12
4
47
36
18
2
Ulcus
\
1
1
1
•12
25
1
4
8
42
16
•■;ol:::::;
38
72
1
1
4
3
4
2
18
9
3
Wounds and injuries.... '
1
8
29
1 1
9
13
6
IS
6
2
1
3
6
7
1
1
15
1
43
Vulnus incisum
20
2
1
2
; 1
2 2
Debililas
1
1
7
4
13
12
7
97
2
32
3
2
1
»
4
7
3
i ^
1 1
3
1
Miscellaneous
1
Morbi oculi
3
2
32
16
63
, 27
7
2 48
1
16 1 ; 18
2 1
31 33
791
13
1,086
9 1 .174 1 o
1,101 ! 5 1 612
2
975
1
1
1
1
I
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
AMOKG THE TEOOPS AT POSTS IN THE SOUTH INTERIOR— WEST.
303
SECOND QUARTER.
18-15. ' 18-16. 1847. 1 1848. 1849.
1850.
1851.
1852. 1853.
1854.
STRESGTU.
699.
600.
340. 1 308. 472.
505.
448.
271. 444.
374.
10,990.
Cases.' Died.
1
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
1
Cases.' Died. Cases.
1
Died. Cases
Died.' Total
1 cases.
Toial
died.
q
1 1 1
......
8 4
52
167
lae
6
6
138
85
1
19
43 i
I •:::::
^i 1
27
9
6
23
40
11
3
2
91
28
53
60
1
3
j 10
3D
101
66
92
56
1,430
1,116
36
197
2
29
1 8
1
17
28
3
1
1
2
2
1
1
3
1
4
4
23
907
481
30
:::::.::::"::::;:
33
40
3
7
7
67
S3
56
27
so
8
5
1
46
1
23
15
14
10
20
10
2
29
3
1
2
3
1
1
3
1 1
....■|.:""'
5 1
3
U
1
1
15
36
S
31
3
20
30
1
30
8
13
8
11
1
1
3
1
6
14
1
12
19
1
10
3
15
10
14
9
17
,; ;:::::
31
18
14
332 2
377 1 1
43 1
3
10
1
18
460
9 9
9
5
1
2
1
1
2
3
1
9 1
3
1
2
67
• >..
1
3
1
1
37 3
1
' i
3
1
1
1
• 19
1
6
4
3
1
5
X
8
2
1
3
1
36 1
1
1
1
28
37
42
154
'
1
1
8
4
1
1
2
1
3
1
1
2
90
1
20
3
3
1
s
2
1
11
1
1
4
10
1
3
12
6
2
7
1
2
1
1 1
1
60
3
3
1
17
3
S
5
4
......
1
9
69
1
1
S
3
2
328
337
177
1
1
8
4
2
I
43
.28
9
4
9"
30
11
3
9
17
10
1
2
1
3
>..
19
13
12
3
1
,5
31
6
1
\
1
14
17
I
14
94
1
I
8
19
4
2
1
1
3
1
18
1
1
2
20
1
4
463
17
27
97
313
31
34
15
41
116
43
16
33
ISI
42
537
1
38
2
35
5
3
9
8
3
3
1
2
11
4
59
1
7
J
15
1
9
5
34
1
6
8
3
1
13
10
1
1
6
10
10
13
1
5 :
4
4
7
3
4
4
8
1
1
2
2
3
9
13
3
5
1
5
25
3
3
.1
1
' 1
1
3
1
4
2
1
1
3
1
1
1
]
1
3
3
1
I i::::::
1 1
3 !
9
1
4
2
1
1
6
...^..
3
6 1
2
3
3
3
11
1
3
2
13
3
6
3
16
1
1
2
14
1
3
I i
:::::•' I ::::■
3 i
1
t
I
20
3
32
41
19 ■ 29
3
16
29 13
8
769
I
591
2
347 i 1 193
1
251
2
358 ' 5
1
344
7
112
434 2 387 1
8,985
53
30d
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 3.— ABSTRACT OP THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCTTRRLNG
«
THIRD aUAKTEB.
181^9. 1
1840.
1841. 1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DFS-
EASES.
1,3-j.
1,310.
836. 1,095.
888.
837.
SPECIFIC DISEASES. Cases. Died. Cases.lDied.
i 1
3asesJ Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.'
Died.
1
Cases. Died.
1
2 2
829 a
:i'
1
13
347 !
26fi
21
67
4
4
1
1
1
410
152
6
83
Fevera -
Febris uiterniiltens rjuniidiana
Fcbris intermittens lertiana i
136
77
150 '
113
390
113
5
91
1
77
2
3
2
3
2
97
1
1 53
1
1
:::::: 71
213
60
1
1
94
23
2
:
3
1
52
26
1
' 141
158
2
4
81
17
1
2
76
14
1
1
Ujsc.iscs of the organs
connected with the di-'
1
2
2
1
1
gestive sy:>tctn.
1
27
25
1
21
38
45
1
25
31
3
20
9
59
83
1 16
2
22
31
2
50
3
4
1
18
11
• 2
......
All other diseases of this system
38
1
7
102
1
1
Diseases of the respira-
9
1
10
3
3
15
14
6
1
2
8
1
tory system.
3
Diseases of the brain and
3
5
1
1
1
14
3
6
5
4
18
8
1
1
4
1
Delirium tremens
! F.pilep-;i:i
, Neuriil-iia
' All other diseases of this system
2
nervous system.
2
1
1
13
1
3
22
1
4 '
22 i
!
13
-
12
19
Diseases of the urinary
! Syphilis priiniliva
5
^
2
3
9
6
11
and genital organs.
3
1
1
5
Diseases of the serous t
and exhalent vessels. I
Diseases of the fibrous &
1 All other diseases of this class
1
<
1 1
1
1
1
3
1
j Pernio
.
muscular structures.
Rheumatismus, acutus et chronicus
27
47
36
36
66
20
3
18
24
13
2
3a
28
48
3
92
50
14
1
45
58
32
2
■••M"
Abscesses and ulcers . . . . ?
22
36
27
2
1
1 41
51
50
1
2
2
I
Wounds and injuries....
4
4
18
.
8
13
6
26
3
1 13
4
14
10
2
1
10
27
2
1
52
1
4
3
1
....
3
3
: IB
! 20
4
1
2
87
1
Dehililas
Fhrieti^
15
3
3
.'i
i)
1
6
10
3
1
' 12
1 4
3
34
1
1
3
I
7
19
Mt9cellaneoD» i
1
20
39
1
129
1
25
."i
11
4
171 a
1
43 104
1
66
1 54
......
!
1 Total
1,797 31
1 1,374
13
1 763 '■ 10 1.173
,12
1 1,230
1
2
1,167
3
1
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE SOUTH INTERIOR— WEST.
305
THIRD QUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853. ! 1854.
STRENGTH.
640.
568.
313. 180.
459.
380.
397.
292.
409.
341.
10,326.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
i
Cases. Died. 'Cases.
t
Died, leases.
Died. Cases.
Died. Cases.
1
Died. Cases.
Died.
I 1
Cases. Died. Cases.^ Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
1
3
142
64
9 4
5
2
5 1 3 1
48 1
891
96
3
43
1
216
39
1
39
3
1
1
74
12
2
77
33
4
lis
32
1
1
114
36
119
32
«5 i
109 1
71
21
2
3,682 3
1,166
40
14
33
16
40
61
31 t
1
815 10
10 5
1
4
3
24
1
1
1 '
9
4
1
24 4
181
69
18
1
1
25
11
i 1
182 18
39
11
1
35
57
- \
10 i
1 1
26
1
1
31
13
1
4
13
1
1
1
35
•19
2
17
7
979 6
448 9
11 1
'
1
18 3
7
1
9
35
1
12
21
12
6
1
2
2
10
S
1
6 '
23
10
4
5
12
6
13
14
4
16
; 10
1 9
1 ' 1
383
342 7
23 1
IS
1
2
2
1
i
1
8
13
9
303 I
2 3
2
1
1
7
2
1
1
2
3
2
6 '■ 4
51
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
17 2
1
1
1
1
3
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
14 3
1
3
S
4
81
43 3
3
8
21
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
5
3
1
3
1
1
1
26
2
16
1
17
7
4
2
36 6
12
1
6
3
2
1
149
2
1
1
5
2
3
2
1
3
1
•2
4
4
1
55
1
23
5
1
4
52
1
1
1
i 1
1
'
1
7 2
4
1
2
24
59
2
1
5
16
16
4
IS
10
3
1
2
10
29
13
2
9
51
11
6
21
3
1
2
13
3
1
1
6 9
44 62
3 5
S : 1 ;
258
583 1
229
1
20
1
1
1 1
19
16
2
2
6
10
6
2
24
i 6
24 23
1
381
8
1
1 10
1
1
12
8
1
6
89
219 2
20
14
12
......
7
6
1
1
1 1 1
2
6
4
I
3
Q
3
9
1
I
3
3
3
2
3
9
10
1
15
2
4
j....
14
10
1
6
1
6
24
2
1
6
9
1
1
i
1
1
1
4 27
1 14 3
2
1
.->
5
16
4
1
1
7
9
7
4
.1
2 1 91
4
2
1
4
2
3
2
1
1
1
1 ;
1
6
3
1
3
4
3 '
166 3
36
19
2
6
3
1
4
3
52
i 4
1
2
1
4 2
;
1T8
U
43
19
2
'' i
28
34
17
16
18
39 ' 9
1
794 S
618
12
341 1
ISS
585 ' 19
1
392 369
1 367 3
712 ' 2 332 2
12,200 107
S. 96-
-39
306
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 3.— ABSTRACT OF THE ITvINCffAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
FOURTH QUARTEK.
1839.
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
911.
805.
615.
773.
922.
74
8.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Oases.
Died.
Cases.' Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
3
1
1
46
76
17
3
3
347
194
11
25
343
172
26
11
1
1
116
56
46
2
13
297
86
1
13
136
S
7
p__-
1
Eniptivc fevers |
9
3
1
a
44
19
5
3
60
8
12
1
37
9
2
76
20
1
3
39
13
1
32
12
1
1
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
1
gestive system.
8
34
4
16
2
1
6
14
25
16
3
73
2
13
28
15
86
1 8
All other diseases of this system
10
6
42
1
2
4
Catarrhu<
32
2
39
29
1
Diseases of the respira-
tory-system.
5
3
1
2
.j 4
4
2
3
7
1
3
4
5
13
3
All other diseases of this system
1
3
1
1
10
10
1
1
I
3
12
' 3
5
4
1
i 19
Diseases of the brain and
2
1
2
1
nervous system.
All other diseases of this system
2
1
1
7
2
4
11
Diseases of the urinary
Syphilis primitiva
1
1
3
1
2
4
9
3
3
and genital organs.
2 i
1
1
L
2
3
1
1
Diseases of the serous <
and exhaleut vessels. ' '
1
1
Diseases of the fibrous & ]
3
23
18
13
muscular structures.
Rheiniiatisnius, acutus et chronicus. ...
27
6
12
7
24
14
7
3
1
29
3
4
1
4
13
32
34
12
4
29
24
14
1
36
34
9
6
Abscesses and ulcers >
Ulcus
14
1
2
25
s
39
56
1
1
1
4
31
37
3
Fractura
3
Wounds and injuries.... ■
6
13
U
16
I 4
26
7
6
1
i
i
1
5
5
1
1
3
3
3
5
1 1
3
2
4
6
1
1
2
1
19
Debilitas
5
] 2
16
! 3
4
1
1
8
1
4
1 ' 2
2
Miscellaneous ■
2
7
7
5
3
46
7
1
31
15
13
All utlicT ilisc-ascs
Total
66
53
25
28
795
12
632
3
391
2
616
8
1,038 1
7-19
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN THE SOUTHERN DIVISION.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN THE SOUTH INTERIOR— WEST.
307
FOURTH aUARTER.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
1850. 1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENGTH.
559.
390.
27?.
312.
462.
373. 310.
352.
464.
367.
8,540.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. ICases.
' 1 1
Died. Cases.i Died. Cases.
1 1
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
3
I
1
90
51
1
8
!
2
104
51
1
193
59
2
47
17
12
2,146
1,016
308
51
3
36
107
23
47
15
6
26
1
31
106
18
1
1
8
21
' 8
1
::
1
i 26
i
71
39
6
7
14
11
250 4
1
1
1
7
1
1
1
25
1
1
3
23
17
1
a
1
1
3
502
154
33
7
1
3
SM
1
1
9
5
4
15
2
4
• •■•■
30
4
6
1
3
32
14
16
5
31
9
1
14
9
22
8
1
S
6
1
1
2
1
2
'
.*....
»
4
10
8
31
3
4
7
6
1
2
7
2
9£l
7
1
3
7
4
3
3
8
5
7
14
7
3
11
"
7
10
4
39
9
13
11
9
130
189
54
1
11
13
18
4S6
2
1
4
a
3
1
1
7
1
1
1
2
2
3
3
1
3
1
1
33
■ 17
10
45
31
21
24
15
1
1
3
3
1
I
3
1
1
1
2
1
6
3
2
2
1
3
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
7
1
!
3
1
8
1
3
3
1
1
1
2
4
9
5
1
2
3
91
1
2
16
6
5
1
1
2
3
7
3
4
3
! :.
1
3
3
1
1
45
23
1
1
3
3
1
35 c::::
1
...
1
.:::::::::::
1
1
1
2
1
5
1
5
1
12
30
4
2
1
24
2
3
8
17
7
1
8
14
1
9
13
3
1
17
11
1
1
11
14
15
1
6
21
4
5
4
7.
IS
3
12
30
11
1
366
279
116 :
2
30
2
360
18
10
6
81
173
25
34
17
46
74
44
21
15
103
6
387
33
IS
1
14
12
1
10
8
1
1
14
1
22
19
a
1
1
3
4
3
4
12
2
1 1
6
7
3
4
3
6
5
5
5
1
1
5
4
7
8
2
2
2
5
7
12
15
1
I
1
1
6
9
6
8
1
I
2
1
3
3
3
1
19
S
3
3
1
1
3
1
5
5
1
1
.
1
3
3
1
•"V
2
1
11
1
1
1
1
1
3
1
3
3
8
3 j
3
5
3
2
4
6
2
4
3
10
16 6
16
7
17
16
7
1
16 14
96
9
1
653
4
380
1
238
223
2 321
293
2
216 a 1 377
5
475
366
7,566
42
FLORIDA,
THE ATLANTIC COAST OF FLOKIDA.
This region extends from the 24th to the 30th parallels of north latitude, and includes the
following military stations: Fort Marion, Camp near New Smyrna, Fort Pierce, Fort Dallas,
and Key West Barracks.
FOET MARION.
[From first edition U. S. Army Vital Statistics.]
"Fort Marion is in the city of St. Augustine, which is situated on the bay of the same name.
It is distant about two miles from the ocean, and about half a mile from Anastasia Island,
which divides the bay from the ocean. The St. Sebastian, a small stream, runs within half a
mile of the town ; and the North river, which rises about 35 miles nortli of the city, empties
into the ocean immediately opposite the fort. There are a few marshes in the vicinity, but
they are inundated twice every 24 hours by the tides; and there are also some low hammock
lands from two to six miles distant, from which, when the wind prevails from the southwest,
clouds of mosquitoes issue in the month of June, subject to be driven back as the wind changes.
The site of the city is slightly elevated, being about twelve feet above the level of the ponds and
marshes in the vicinity. The adjacent country is level and generally sandy, some parts being
sufficiently rich in calcareous and vegetable matter to produce most of the vegetables cultivated
at the north. Oranges flourish here most luxuriantly; but, in the early part of 1835, all the
groves in the northern half of the peninsula were wholly destroyed by frost — an occurrence pre-
viously unknown.
"St. Augustine has long been celebrated as a winter residence for jjulmonary invalids ; but the
city itself has claims upon the traveller's attention, not the least being the fact that it is the
oldest town in the United States. The fort is also one of the oldest in the United States. It
was finished, as appears by its now nearly illegible inscription, in l^oG, in the reign of Fer-
dinand the Sixth. The walls consist of a concretion of sea-shells obtained from quarries on
Anastasia Island; and as the material, under a bombardment, crumbles away without suffering
fractures, the fort, duly manned, would be almost impregnable. The barracks and hospital are
situated directly on the bay, about a mile south of the fort. The position of these buildings is
eligible in every respect.
" This post has been at all times justly esteemed for its salubrity. Compared with the average
mortality of southern posts in general, this station is found to exhibit a much lower ratio.
The annual average of fevers of malarial origin is very low — that of intermittent fever being 20,
and that of remittent fever 11 per cent. It is seldom that diseases of a malignant character
appear at St. Augustine. Towards the close of the present year, (1839,) yellow fever, which
ravaged the principal cities of our southern States, made its appearance at this station. This
is only the second time that this epidemic has prevailed in this city within the period of 20
years; while at Charleston, we are told by Professor Dickson, that in 24 years' practice, but
three have passed without his knowing the occurrence of yellow fever. The period at which it
310 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
prevailed first at St. Augustine was immediately after the cession of the province by Sj^ain. As
much filth had been allowed to accinnulate during a succession of years, both at this jilace and
at Pensacola, the circumstances incident to its removal by the American antlioritics were
regarded as the exciting cause of the disease by tlie medical officers of the army. The expe-
rience of a century and a half teaches us that the causes of yellow fever are ])Orcnnial]y present
in our soutliern cities. Indissolubly connected with our soil and climate, it maintains the same
relation towards the animal economy, as the malaria of our immense low country. As regards
the essential cause of yellow fever, we still remain in tiie dark. It is manifest, however, that
to develop tlie cause, and to keep up its action, requires a high range of atmospheric tempera-
ture; and as this condition seldom obtains on the coast of Florida, it would seem to afi'ord
an apparent explanation of its infrequent occurrence in this region. As the extremes of tem-
perature are much modified by geographical position, and as the combined influence of the
various causes acting in the most intense degree appears necessary for its development, a link
in the chain seems to be wanting. At Key West, as in the islands generally of the West
Indies, yellow fever has prevailed with mucli malignity."'
Although, for reasons elsewhere given, the vital statistics of the Florida war are not included
in this report, it is deemed proper to notice, in this connexion, an epidemic (yellow fever) which
occurred at Fort Marion in 1841, concerning which Surgeon J. B. Porter, in November of that
year, reported as follows:
"The first case of yellow fever which ran a regular course to a fatal termination was admitted
on the 3d of October, and died on the 10th, after a much longer illness than the subsequent
cases. In order to give a full description of the disease as it prevailed, the progress of the
most severe cases, as they went on, apparently unchecked by remedial means, to a fatal termi-
nation, will be given. The patient was usually taken witli prostration of strength, sometimes
chilliness, almost amounting to a rigor, and cold extremities; reaction rarely came on, or was
very partial and temporary. Early in tlie disease there was great thirst ; dry tongue, some-
times a moist one; heaviness of the head, or giddiness; red or watery eyes; pain, or tender-
ness, of the globe of the eye on slight pressure; intense pain, or stricture, over the eyes or
frontal region ; sometimes pain of the back or loins ; pulse quick, frequent and weak, or slow,
weak, and uncertain ; res2)iration heavy ; great irritability of the stomach ; and frequently pain
or tenderness on i)ressure of tlie epigastrium.
"In its progress, the eyes and skin became gradually j-ellow, until the whole body was of an
intensely yellow line; Uack vomii ca.uie on; tongue became black, and there was hemorrhage
from the mouth and nostrils; frequently vibices; hiccough; delirium, or coma; and death
closed the scene.
"Some few cases had a short stjige of reaction; beating of the carotids; flushed face; redness
and burning of the eyes ; pain of the head ; tongue white, gradually becoming yellow ; exces-
sive thirst; pulse full and pretty strong; hot and dry skin; respiration heavy and hurried;
nausea and vomiting of a thick ropy mucus; and urine small in quantity, and high colored.
The whole body and eyes early became yellow, and the disease went rapidly on, with UacJc
vomit, hemorrhage, delirium or coma, to a fatal termination. The duration of the disease in
the fatal cases was from 48 hours to 4 or 5 days ; some survived several days longer in a state of
insensibility, without the least prospect of recovery. Between the most severe yellow fever and
simple remittent, of which there were a few cases, there were all grades of disease. No case
has been registered as febris icterodes, unless some of the decided symptoms manifested them-
selves, and tliey had generally all the following, viz: redness or burning of tlie eyes; a pain of
the eyeball, especially on pressure, and pain over the eyes in the frontal region; great disturb-
ance of the stomach ; and particularly yellowness of the eyes, forehead, and sometimes of the
breast. Unless nearly all of the above symptoms were present, especially the yellow line, the
disease was not registered febris icterodes, but as febris remittens.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA. 311
"The most marked cases of febris remittens partook of the nature of the prevailing epidemic,
and were generally characterized by the want of action consequent on loss of vital energy.
"In the treatment of febris icterodes, the few cases which had considerable reaction were bled ;
free scarifying and cupping, cold ablution, and mercurial and other cathartics were used. But,
in general, the lancet was considered inadmissible, on account of the exhausted condition of the
patient; he was cupped freely on the epigastrium and spine, warm stimulating pediluvia, free
application of sinapisms to the limbs and epigastrium, and epispastics at a later period ; mercu-
rial and other cathartics were freely given. In addition to the above means, the irritability of
the stomach was allayed by effervescing mixtures of carbonate of soda, freely given ; stimulating
enemata freely used, &c. Whenever slight ptyalism was produced, whether early or late in
the disease, the patient became better, generally bore the administration of tonics well, and
convalescence was soon established.
"In the advanced stage, quinine and other tonics were used; and wine or brandy and water,
in some instances, was beneficial. The most universally useful tonic was good London porter,
which almost always agreed with the patient^ and materially contributed to his restoration.
There is a class of cases, which are benefited by no kind of treatment whatever — those which
occur in old drunkards ; in these, no matter what is attempted, the disease invariably runs to a
fatal termination."
This epidemic continued until the 1.5th of November, on which day, and on the 16th, there
were white frosts, and on the ITtli a black frost. The total number of cases treated was 56, of
which 25 proved fatal.
MEDICAL TOPOGKAl^HY AND DISEASES OF "CAMP NEAR NEW SMYRNA."
By Assistant Surgeon Robert Southgate : 1853.
An unprovoked assault having been made upon a camp of peaceful Seminoles, by a party of
white men anxious to provoke hostilities, and fears of retaliatory measures on the part of the
Indians having been excited among the peaceful settlers, company L, 2d artillery, stationed at
St. Augustine, was ordered to take post at New Smyrna, and extend protection to the settle-
ments in its vicinity. In obedience to orders, the company, in the latter part of February,
1852, marched to and encamped at Dunlawton, the most important settlement, twelve miles
north of New Smyrna (properly so called), to which place a detachment was sent, as also to
Enterprise, on the river St. John's. This last detachment was called in early in July, several
of the men having suffered from severe intermittent fever, and the position not being deemed
of sufficient importance to risk the still greater sacrifice of health which might be reasonably
anticipated during tlie "course of the summer and fall. The geographical position of the camp
is in latitude 29° north, longitude 81° 7' west. It is located on the right bank of the Halifax
river, eight miles from the Mosquito bar, over which the river flows into the ocean. It is about
two miles due west of the ocean, from which it is separated by the river and a long narrow
peninsular strip of land, formed by ridges of sand and shells, upon which there is a growth of
the saw-palmetto, small live-oaks, and a variety of unimportant shrubs.
The physical aspect of the country in the vicinity of the camp presents no feature of interest.
Sterile flatness would express its appearance, did not a fertile swamp, here and there, prove by
its presence the exception to the rule, of its utter worthlessness for the purposes of agriculture.
The geology of Florida presents an unexplored field for scientific research. The prima-facie
impression on the mind of the observer is, that the country in the vicinity of the camp has been,
at a former period, beneath the surface of the waters of the neighboring ocean; and whether we
adoj)t the opinion that it has been lifted from beneath the waves by a submarine force, or that
the waters have subsided and left it dry (the former deemed the more tenable), there cannot be
a doubt that in its formations we read, geologically speaking, the history of a modern era.
Within the memory of man, great changes have been effected in the physical appearance of the
312 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS' AND MORTALITY
coast in this vicinity, l)y ibices still in operation — the action of high winds, the disintegrating
power of the waves, when lashed into fury by the great storms which occasionally sweep along
the coast; and it requires no stretch of imagination to realize that, if at some future day an
extensive hreach should be effected in the narrow peninsular strip of land described as stretch-
ing between the camp and the ocean, the country for miles back would be completely inundated.
A section of the surface near the camp presents, in descending series — 1st, a very thin layer
of vegetable mould; 2d, strata of sand variously colored, (a thin layer of dark mould, probably
the decomposed sea-weed which at certain seasons is deposited in thick layers on the shore, and
which I have observed to be gradually covered in by sand, occasionally separating the strata;)
3d, the coquina rock, which is found near the camp, at an average depth of eight feet. This
interesting formation exists in various degrees of compactness — in some places, crumbling by
slight pressure into smaller fragments; in others, presenting a firmly cemented and useful
material for building purposes. Tliis shell formation has, I believe, been classed witli the
eocene (lower tertiary) group. The practised palteontologist must decide this point, and for
him the fossil geology of Florida presents a fresh and inviting field of labor. The rich swamp,
to be referred to as having probably influenced the health of the command, presents a soil of
the average depth of two feet — a dark loam reposing upon marl, which exists in great abun-
dance ; beneath the marl we find strata of sand and tlie shell formation.
The medical topography of the camp may be described as follows : The site of the encamp-
ment is a slu'U bank, elevated about nine feet above low-water mark, immediately in the rear
of which we have a flat marshy surface, inundated by the river during high tides. About one
mile west of the camp there is a fertile swamp, which has been partly cleared, dyked, and
devoted to the culture of the cane; this is skirted by an extensive pine barren, of which the
country principally consists. The points of medical interest are: the proximity of the ocean —
favorable to health ; the extensive marshy surface in rear of the camp, pre.senting to the sun's
rays material ior tlie production of a febrific agent — directly the reverse. The influence of the
fertile swamp in the production of disease may be estimated, when the facts connected with it
shall have been passed in review.
Lying mostly between two seas, Florida is, by position, entitled to an equable climate; and
yet, on this coast, and in this latitude, equability can hardly be considered characteristic of it.
During the winter and spring, the atmospherical changes are often sudden and marked. Even
in this respect, however, Florida, contrasted with other sections of our country, can claim a
superiority. Earely is the change so great as to impress an individual, in fair health, uncom-
fortably; and the invalid has, generally, sufticient warning to guard against it. In relation
to general health, indeed, equability can hardly be considered the most vital element of climate ;
the highest degree of physical vigor being attained in climates of which variableness is a striking
quality. The human organism is constituted for such mutations; and, were it subjected to the
monotonous impression of a uniform temperature for a length of time, its powers would, unques-
tionably, languish. Even in special cases, such as chronic diseases of the lungs, the marked
difference, during the summer, between the temperatures of day and night, so characrteristic of
the climate of tliis coast, would probably be of service to the invalid. The refreshing sleep that
may be enjoyed during the cool nights of midsummer, with the invigorating sea-breezes of the
day, must in his^ as well as other cases marked by debility and irritation, promote the general
health ; while the ftiet that, during the winter, the temperature is rarely so depressed tliat
exercise in the open air may not be enjoyed, will render it a salutary residence during that
season of the year. Exercise in the open air, by maintaining the vigor of digestion, and ap-
peasing the wearing excitement of the heart and arteries, must economize the vital force and
save the integrity of the tissues; and, to the consumptive invalid, these considerations are of
the very first importance.
I write in reference to the northern invalid, whose skin has been constricted during successive
hard winters, who has suff"ered from frequent catarrlis, and in the upper portion of whose lung
AMONG THE TEOOPS IN FLORIDA. 313
the fatal deposit has been made; to him, a removal to Florida holds out the prospect of greater
lenglh of days. I am credibly informed that there are residing between this and Indian river,
three individuals, who left the north, pre.s-nting the symptoms of advanced pulmonary disease,
and, by a permanent residence in this delightful peninsula, have regained an unexpected
measure' of health. Making due allowance for probable errors of diagnosis, it is not improbable
that the entire change of life, the newness of impressions — mental, moral, and physical — may
have imparted a renewing impulse to the energies of the system, by which the secretion of
tubercle has been checked, and that already deposited rendered inoperative for mischief. On
the other hand, for those who become consumptive in Florida, a removal to a more bracing
climate is imperatively demanded. In sucli, the rapid melting down of the tissues of the lung
during the warmer months, it has been my painful duty to witness in more than a single
instance. In St. Augustine, the climate of which difiers but slightly from that of this camp,
tuberculosis of the lungs is not a rare disease. Of one family, originally numbering ten, two
alone survive — eight having been hurried to the tomb by this formidable malady. Among the
negro population it is not uncommon, and would seem to be on the increase — three cases of
the hemorrhagic variety, all terminating in a rapid decline, having come under my observation.
The cause of this increase in a class, on many accounts interesting, is worthy of the investiga-
tion of the philanthropist and physician.
The proximity of the ocean, from the surface of which a large amount of aqueous vapor is
raised into the atmosphere by the action of the solar rays, renders the climate of the coast a
moist one. This meteorological condition is indicated by very palpable signs. The rapid oxi-
dation of iron, the difficulty of keeping instruments bright, the necessity of frequently airing
clothing to preserve it from mildew, are matters of common observation. The planters on the
coast remark that their crops stand a long drought remarkably well ; a circumstance due to the
moist condition of the atmosphere and the copious precipitation of dew, supplying the long
absence of rain. These sensible eflects are manifested most decidedly during the heats of spring
and summer, and in relation to health may be considered favorable. Springing fresh and pure
from the bosom of the ocean, the aqueous vapor is mingled with no hi:rtful agent; and, by
communicating a refreshing element to the atmosphere, exerts a benign influence upon the sys-
tem during its subjection to elevated and protracted atmospherical heat ; diflering from that
arising from the ponds and swamps of the interior, which depresses the spirits, and frequently
bears on its wings unwholesome emanations. During May, June, July, August, and Septem-
ber, when sickness most prevailed^ Fahrenheit's thermometer ranged between 79° and 89°.
For a few hours during the month of June, it indicated 93° — the greatest elevation noted du-
ring the summer. The coolest portion of the twenty-four hours was the period embraced be-
tween midnight and day-break. The warmest part of the day was, as a general rule, between
the hours of 9 and 11, a. m. The greatest difference between the temperatures of day and
night occurred during March and April, in the spring, and the months of October and Novem-
ber, in the fall; and, during these months, the digestive and respiratory apparatus suffered
most disturbance. During the summer, when the land breeze from the south and west was
blowing, the temperature of 86° was very oppressive; the respiration was labored, the spirits
depressed, the indisposition to bodily and mental exertion almost insuperable. With intense
anxiety was the ocean breeze expected ! The first ripple on the surface of the water to the
southeast was the signal of approaching relief! By the full establishment of the refreshing
current, mental and physical elasticity were restored ; hope took the place of despondency ; and
the past was remembered only to heighten the enjoyment of the present. The mercury in the
thermometer generally fell about six degrees in ten minutes, without producing any other than
a sense of comfort and well-being. The sea-breeze, blowing with great regularity, is, indeed,
tlie great sanitary agent on the coast of Florida, tempering the protracted heats of summer,
and, by its nerve-strengthening power, resii.ring the lost tone of the system.
The summer climate of the coast may be considered a very fine one. A few miles back from
s. 96 io
314 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
the ocean it does not merit the same praise ; and the contrast a single mile west of the camp was
80 marked as to excite surprise in every one who tested tlie difference. During the Avinter, on
the otlier liaud, an interior position is more suitable for tlie pulmonary invalid; and a dry pine-
harren country, through which he may roam at will, and inhale the balsamic atmosphere, will
prove most friendly to his lungs, and best sustain the flagging energies of his system.
■ The land-breeze during the summer is, in all its projjerties, the reverse of the ocean current.
Instead of being nerve-strengthening, it is nerve-debilitating ; and during its prevalence there
was invariably an increase of the sick-list. Fortunately, the sea-breeze — the better genius of
the coast — prevails, and, in a great measure, neutralizes the power of its antagonist.
The subjoined abstract will show the diseases and the number taken sick since this camp was
occupied. What were the disease-producing agents during the spring, summer, and fall?
With respect to the catarrhs and diarrhoeas, the majority of which were so slight as not to
amount to disease, and accordingly are not reported, they occurred in months during which
there was the greatest contrast between the temperatures of day and night ; and a moment's
reflection upon the physiological sympathies and relations of the skin with the digestive and
pulmonary mucous membranes will suggest the rationale of their causation. Not so with inter-
mittent fever ; doubt still clouds the professional mind, and the question presents itself as to
the existence or non-existence of a specific cause.
For a long period there has been conceived to be a relationship between the soil and certain
forms of disease ; marsh miasm having been considered the fruitful parent of intermittent and
remittent fevers. Received as a medical fact, which it was deemed a heresy to disi)ute, it has,
in these latter days, been called in question, and distinguished members of the profession seem
disposed to discard it as a dogma that has no substantial basis ! It is plausibly argued that
ordinary meteorological influences — heat, dryness, moisture, alternations of temperature,
changes in the electrical state of the atmosphere, &c. — are adequate to produce these and other
forms of disease; and that where we have such causes acting upon the system, it is an errant
philosophy to seek for others t A concise statement of the medical history of the command
during the past summer may throw some light upon this point.
In sketching the topography of the camp, it was stated that there existed, some distance in its
rear, a fertile swamp which had been partly cleared, dyked, and devoted to the culture of the
cane. On its arrival at Dunlawton, the company encamped on this ground, which offered the
shelter of a few old sheds. The camp was surrounded by a quantity of vegetable matter in
process of decay, from which it was thought might be evolved, under the action of elevated at-
mosiiheric heat, a febrific agent. It was accordingly deemed expedient to move the camp to its
present position, and early in April the movement was efi'ected. As a mill and other valuable
property in the field would have been exposed to violence in the event of an Indian incursion, a
guard was left for its protection, which was relieved by a fresh detail every twenty-four hours.
Scattering cases of intermittent fever occurred during the month of April, increased in frequency
and severity during the months of May and June, so as seriously to impair the efficiency of the
command, and render the discontinuance of the guard at the sugar-field a matter of necessity.
In moving the company to a new position, the cause of the disease was not entirely evaded.
The marshy surface immediately in rear of the camp, subject to occasional overflow, and pre-
senting to the solar rays material for the production of disease, maintained the morbid impres-
sion in those who had already suffered, and eventually affected that portion of the command
whose sjiecial duties had exempted them from detail for guard. Hence^ before the expiration
of the summer, every enlisted man, with a rare exception, had suffered one or more attacks of
intermittent fever. It is an interesting fact, and illustrative of the facility with which all the
sickness might have been avoided, that the proprietor of Dunlawton, with his family, had en-
joyed uninterrupted health for a series of years, by retiring, for the summer and fall, to their
sea-shore residence, distant less than two miles; and that the penalty of the experiment of
spending the summer at Dunlawton was the illness of himself and every member of his family,
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA, 315
with a single exception. So active was the endemic influence, that nearly all the negroes on
the plantation, young and old, were affected hy it. The case of the company haker is not with-
out interest. After the withdrawal of the command from the sugar-field, he alone remained
there in the discharge of his special duty. A very few days elapsed before he reported sick
with severe premonitions — pain iu the back and head, giddiness, gastric distress, coated
tongue, witli a viscid and bitter state of the secretions of the mouth. After the operation of an
emetic, which led to the copious discharge of acrid bile and vitiated mucus, a simple tertian
was revealed, which yielded speedily to the sulphate of quinine. On. his restoration to health,
he was returned to duty, with instructions to leave the field at sunset, and pass the night in the
new encampment. In a very few days he again reported sick with a similar train of symptoms,
which yielded to similar treatment ; and having been again returned to duty, he was for the
third time similarly, though not so severely, affected. Now there is nothing strange in all this;
and, doubtless, medical officers will remember similar cases, as strikingly illustrative of the
influence of peculiar localities, and the functional derangement of the digestive apparatus
produced by the cause of intermittent fever. The effects were as specific as those produced by
any poison; and upon such evidence the mind may repose, until the advance of science shall
enable us still further to disclose the mysterious agents by which we are surrounded. It is not
every season, however, that presents so striking a manifestation of the endemic influence; due,
possibly, to the fact (and in this presenting an analogy with the vegetable productions of the
soil) that the elements which, by their combination, produce the poison, become deficient, and
require repose for their reproduction.
In connexion with this last paragraph, it may not be irrelevant to mention a case of
sickness, characterized by some peculiar features. The greatest sufferer from intermittent
fever, during the summer and fall, was Private Otto, hospital steward. The dispensary
tent, in which he slept, was pitched just on the border of the marshy plain, described as being
immediately in rear of the camj). It was in the centre of a small grove of the cabbage-pal-
metto, which sheltered it from the rays of the sun. The hospital tent was in front of it, and
completely obstructed the current of the sea-breeze ; the position was not one of election, but
necessity. The physical circumstances in which he was placed, were great dami)ness, and the
rapid growth of a beautiful green mould, that night after night covered the surface of the vege-
table extracts. The symptomatical peculiarities of the case were distressing vertigo, and irrita-
bility of stomach, which continued throughout the intermissions. He suffered no less than
five attacks of the disease, and his case forcibly recalled to my mind several whicK formed the
subject of a communication made to Professor J. K. Mitchell some years since, after a perusal
of his lectures on the cryptogamous origin of fever. Had the fungus-producing atmosphere any
influence upon Private Otto? If not the cause of intermittent fever, may the unusual develop-
ment of this form of vegetable life in miasmatic localities be an explanation of the malignity
it occasionally displays? These were questions which presented themselves to my mind, when
I reflected upon the coincident peculiarities of cases separated by time and distance. Tlie cryp-
togamic theory is destined, perhaps, like all that have preceded it, to be numbered among the
unsuccessful efforts to advance the cause of truth ; but the ingenuity and research displayed by
Dr. Mitchell in its advocacy entitle him to the thanks of the profession. The detachment sta-
tioned at New Smyrna suffered from intermittent fever, but not to the same extent as the troops
in camp at Dunlawton. The medical topography of the two places is similar ; but the latter
presented a surface fitted for the production of a stronger poison, and the emanations from its
fertile swamp made an impression which was felt long after the command was removed from its
direct influence.
With respect to New Smyrna, the amiable and philosophic Abbe Kaynal, in his History of
the Settlement of the East and West Indies, remarks: "The Greeks groan under the Ottoman
tyranny, and must be inclined to shake ofl" the detested yoke. This was the opinion of Doctor
TurnbuU, when, in 1767, he went to ofler an asylum in British America to the inhabitants of
316 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Peloponnesus. Several of them yielded to his solicitations; and^ ibr the sum of one inindi-od
guineas, he obtained leave fi-om the government of the place to embark them at Modon. He
landed in Corsica and Minorca, and prevailed upon some of the inhabitants of the two islands
to follow him. Tlie emigrants, to the number of one thousand, arrived in East Florida, with
their prudent conductor, where sixty thousand acres of land were granted to them. This would
have been an immense possession, even if the climate had not destroyed any of them ; but they
had, unfortunately, been so much thwarted by tlie winds as to prevent their landing before
summer, which is a dangerous season, and which destroyed one-quarter of their number.
Those who escaped the first disaster have since enjoyed perfect health, which has only been
aflected by a few fevers."
His speculations upon the future of this settlement are as follows; "Wliy should not Athens
and Lacedemon be, one day, revived in North America? Why should not the city of Turnbull
become, in a few centuries, the residence of politeness, of the fine arts, and of eloquence?" Its
present desolation holds out but little prospect of the fulfilment of his anticipations, and a para-
graph in the same chapter may partly explain the ])resent condition of the settlement. "The
soil of East Florida, (says Eaynal,) being a great deal too sandy, constantly drove away all men
who were desirous of making a rapid fortune. It would scarcely have been peopled, except by
some extraordinary event. The troubles by which North America hath been agitated have
driven to that comparatively barren soil a few peaceful citizens, who had a settled aversion for
disputes, and a still greater number of men who, either from ambition, habit, or prejudice, were
devoted to the mother country." The apologist for East Florida may attempt to explain away
the cause of its slow population; the Indian phantom may now and then be raised, clothed in
all its horrors; but the face of nature remains the same, and he who has examined the country
■with an unprejudiced eye will remain a skeptic as to its future populousness. In another chap-
ter of his history, the Abbe Eaynal remarks :
" The first Spaniards who settled there would probably not have recovered from those dan-
gerous fevers, with which most of them were attacked on their arrival in Florida, either in con-
sequence of the food of the country, or of the badness of the waters ; but the savages taught
them that, by drinking (fasting and at their meals) water in which the root of the sassafras had
been boiled, they might depend upon a speedy cure. The experiment, on trial, proved suc-
cessful."
These extracts are quoted to show that, at the earliest period of the settlement of the Floridas
fevers were rife ; and, doubtless, under a less improved treatment than at present pursued,
many cases might have terminated in death. If those of the past summer, there were oc-
casionally urgent symptoms; and it is not improbable that, without the invaluable aid of the
sulphate of quinine, the intermittents might have degenerated into remittents; and these last,
after having lasted sufiiciently long to impair the nervous energy and vitiate the circulating
fluids, have lapsed into a fever resembling typhus. It is a weak enthusiasm, therefore, to con-
tend that Florida is the healthiest country on the f;ice of the wide world. It would be strange,
indeed, if her fertile swamps and hammocks did not generate fevers. It has been proved, how-
ever, that on her salubrious sea-coast almost perfect immunity from fever may be enjoyed ; and
it is high praise to say that, if the bane exists, a way of escape is within easy reach of those
who select Florida for a home.
I am not aware that the health of the command was seriously modified by any other than the
endemic influence. That the nervous and sanguiferous systems felt the influence of long con-
tinued and elevated solar heat, may not be doubted ; but the loss of tone, resulting from its
action, was countervailed by tlic invigorating breezes from the ocean. The diet of the soldiers
consisted of the wholesome army ration, with good fish caught in the Halifax river, and an
occasional supply of venison. The water, though slightly brackish, was good. No irritation
or other appreciable influence was produced on the alimentary canal ; and, considering tlie well-
known imprudence of soldiers, the immunity from diarrhoea was rather remarkable. During
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA. 317
the summer, indeed, constipation seemed to be tlie rule — diarrhoea the exception. In the
month of Novemher, on the other hand, when the nights were decidedly chilly, nearly every
relapse into intermittent fever was either preceded or followed by diarrhoea. It has been stated
that many cases of the endemic were of a severe character — the irritability of stomach, the pain
in the back and head, &c., announcing no slight impression on the system. I do not wish to
convey the idea that they were of a dangerous character; for a large majority of the fevers of
Florida yield readily to treatment. In estimating, however, the force of the cause, due consider-
ation should be had of the character of the subject upon which it acts. The company consisted
mainly of recruits enlisted at the north, who were sent into a southern camp at the commence-
ment of warm weather, and kejit in an unhealthy position long after the supposed necessity had
passed. Many of them, of previously intemperate habits, had been caught up by recruiting
sergeants about the filthy purlieus of our large cities, and hurried into the service. In looking
at the detachment as it landed, one could not helj) imagining that the commanding and medical
officers at some recruiting depot, disgusted with the subjects of their official care, had thrown
open the doors of the guard-house and hospital, and thrust the inmates forth, to be hurried
aboard of a transport bound for some distant station ! Such was the morbid mass exposed to
the causes of disease ! Had these men been placed in garrison, disciplined into something like
decency, and instructed by the force of example into a proper care of themselves, they would
have suffered less severely from the exposures of a camp life ; and the fact that the rare exam-
ples among them of a better class and more intelligence sufiered less severely, and recovered
with more facility, shows that such advantages secured them comparative immunity. In the
army, indeed, we are presented with striking illustrations of a truth, which should be engraved
on the door of entrance to every hospital — the intemperate sufler most severely from disease,
and, as a general rule, fall its earliest victims.
Assuming the fact, that intermittent fever is the result of a specific cause, it is allowable,
within certain limits, to speculate upon its mode of action. The late distinguished professor of
the theory and practice in the University of Pennsylvania advocated the gastric pathology of
this fever with great eloquence and force ; and he who has observed the disease closely will
admit that, let the antecedents in the intimate recesses of the system be what they may, the
first appreciable derangements exist in the digestive apparatus. Nor is this fact without a
practical bearing ; for, by carefully obviating the initial disturbance, the attack may, frequently,
be warded o&. Being consulted by the proprietor of Dunlawton as to the health of several of
his children, who had sufiered repeated attacks, I directed his attention to the coated tongue
and torpor of the bowels which preceded them; and, by the use of gentle but efficient means
to correct the frequently recurring functional derangement, the attacks were interrupted and
health restored. In a miasmatic locality, medical men are presented with three well-marked
manifestations of the endemic influence in the production of intermittent fever, neuralgia, and
the malarial cachexia. It is well known that the last two may invade the system without the
patient having ever had a paroxysm of fever. Various grades of the cacliexia are met with in
unhealthy districts ; and the subjects of it will express a wish to have a regular attack of the
ague, as a means of getting better of their complaints. Intermittent fever is, however, the
most usual manifestation ; and the case of the company baker, briefly sketched above, is stri-
kingly illustrated. It will be remembered that marked gastric symptoms characterized his
attacks, which were repeated three several times after as many exposures to the air of the moist
rich sugar-fleld. The cause of the disease may, then, be reasonably supposed to make its pri-
mary impression ui)on the nervous system of the digestive ajiparatus ; the capillary circulation
of these organs is disturbed, and, as a necessary consequence, their secretory functions are per-
verted; hence the vitiated secretions which so prominently mark the onset of the disease. The
intimate union and sympathy which exist between all departments of the nervous system, the
important part which that system performs in all the vital movements, will readily account for
all the subsequent phenomena — the pain and confusion of head, the rigors, the occasional C0U7
318 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
vulsions, the defective formation or irregular distribution of animal heat, the feeble action of
the heart, the congestion of various organs, &c., &c. Occasionally, the morbid impression is
too strong for the vitality of the system, which, after a short struggle, is extinguished. For-
tunately, the vis conservatrix is generally successful ; and the patient, after a violent commo-
tion, (the particulars of which need not be detailed,) lies ])rostrate and bathed in perspiration —
a gradual return to apparent health com])leting the circle. But the disease still exists ; the
peculiar cause has impressed a periodicity on these movements; the paroxysms, if not inter-
rupted, are repeated again and again, with surprising regularity. Each repetition still further
deranges the animal and organic functions; and although, after frequent paroxysms, the posi-
tive suiferings during an attack may not be so distressing, yet the appearance of the patient
indicates that a healthy blood is no longer formed, and that his nutrition is seriously impaired.
His emaciation is evident ; his skin becomes sallow, harsh, and dry ; he is troubled with con-
stipation, or diarrhcea — usually the former ; and the sequel of the history is, that his face becomes
pufiy, his abdomen tumid, the lower extremities cedematous, and general dropsy terminates
the scene — dropsy from altered crasis of the blood. This form of cachexia I have seen on the
St. John's river, in subjects who, for years, have breathed the endemic poison. The only hope
for the patient, under such circumstances, is a removal from the abode of this mysterious power,
a faithful course of mild alteratives and aperients with the preparations of taraxicum, a di-
gestible and nutritious diet, and a steady administration of the great tonic-analeptic, iron.
By the use of these means, and such others as particular circumstances may indicate, health
may generally be re-established.
Intermittent fever is a subject of much interest to the army medical officer, inasmuch as it
is encountered at every step of his progress. He has to deal with the disease under circum-
stances hostile to the full efficacy of his remedial means; for his patients have frequently
only the shelter of a tent from the chill night air and the burning sun, and their continuance
in unhealthy positions, which, for military reasons, cannot be abandoned, subjects them to the
continued influence of the cause of the very disease he is attempting to cure ; hence the liability
to relapses and fresh attacks, which prove so harassing to the surgeon, and, occasionally, so
ruinous to the health of the soldier. In every case of intermittent fever the practitioner will
recognize the presence of two elements — periodicity and functional derangement of the digestive
system. The former is located in the nervous system, and is occasionally manifested by parox-
ysmal neuralgias, which observe regular periods of recurrence. These are, clearly, affections
of the nervous system, and, with a due regard to the condition of other organs, to be relieved by
remedies mainly addressed to that system. The other element prominently marks the onset of
the disease; makes it, according to its degree, mild or severe; and, by its occasional intensity,
prevents the complete resolution of the paroxysm producing a remittent; which, after it has
continued sufficiently long to produce loss of jiower and vitiation of the blood, verges toward
typhus; or, if the acuteness of the disease has passed, and a chronic functional derangement is
maintained by the long-continued operation of the cause, produces that cachectic condition
described in a former part of this paper.
Every physician of experience in malarial fevers has witnessed the natural conversion of inter-
mittent and remittent, and the lapse of the latter into a disease resembling typhus, and thence
a retrograde movement into the more manageable disease ; and in the treatment of the malarial
cachexia, one of the favorable indications is the occurrence of a regular paroxysm of intermittent
fever — the periodical element seeming to have been interrupted by the more powerful derange-
ments of the system, and to reapjjcar on their relief. As regards the treatment of intermittent
fever, as it occurred at Dunlawton, I have but little of interest to communicate. Apprehending
in some of the earlier cases a remittent form of fever, I administered at the onset the following
powder: R Sulph: quin: grs. x; prot: chlor: hydrarg: grs. x; sulph: morphias gr. ss. M.
The severe pain in the head and back, the general malaise of the patient, &c., disappeared
as by enchantment ; an aperient next day completed the treatment. It struck me, however,
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA, 319
tliat signal as the relief seemed to be, the medication was too strong for the amount of disease,
and that the patient was enfeebled by it more than could be considered justifiable. According-
ly, I pursued the more usual course of cleansing the alimentary canal by an emetic or cathar-
tic, as seemed to be indicated, and administered quinine during tlie intermission ; giving ten
grains at the close of a paroxysm in quotidians, and in tertians administering the remedy in
smaller doses, at regular intervals. If the patient "missed the chill," about ten additional
grains were given during the two following days; and great care was taken to return no one
to duty before all signs of functional derangement had disappeared. In all the more usual
forms of intermittent fever, experience has satisfied me that this is the preferable course of pro-
ceeding. In j^ernicious intermittents, a very different medication is demanded. The life-force
has received a blow under whicli it staggers ; and the uncompromising administration of the
great tonic-neurosthenic quinine is the sheet-anchor upon which we must rely for safety. The
wonderful powers of this remedy, which, with magic touch, seems to exorcise the evil spirit, has
led, perhaps, sometimes to a forgetfulness of other remedies, and a too exclusive attention to
the periodical element. But the arrest of the paroxysms must not be considered, in all cases, a
cure of the disease ; and until the digestive apparatus is restored to a physiological state, as
evidenced by a clear complexion and conjunctiva, a clean tongue, a restoration of appetite, and
a regular condition of the alvine canal, the disease may be considered to exist. By attending
to both the elements, and directing the appropriate treatment for their relief, the medical officer
will have the satisfaction of saving his patients from protracted ill health. Fresh attacks they
may have, while breathing the poison ; relapses may be induced by their own imprudence ; but
the course above indicated will carry them through the summer and fall with unimpaired
health, free from enlarged spleens and other visceral obstructions. Should he pursue an oppo-
site course, and attempt to carry the citadel of the enemy by storm, rather than by slower and
more regular approaches — should he purge his patient actively, and administer a large dose of
the sulphate of quinine — he may, indeed, stifle the periodical element, but he may not thor-
oughly cure the patient, who, on being subjected to a drill of any length, will have to fall out
of the ranks from inability to undergo the necessary exertion. It is, indeed, important to cure
this disease speedily, for two-thirds of the command may be disabled by it; but a slower
method will, in the end, save both time and trouble. As a matter of experiment, I abstained
in one case, from the use of quinine, and directed my attention to the element of functional de-
rangement, which was treated by aperients and alteratives. By tliis method, the severity of the
paroxysms was diminished by the amount of functional disturbance relieved; but the periodical
element remained, and was eliminated by the sulphate of quinine. In this instance, a lon^-er
immimity from a second attack was enjoyed than in any other; and, although no practical in-
ference should be drawn from a single case, the question fairly presents itself, — may we not be
in the habit of resorting to the anti-periodic too early, and might we not gain in the end by
thoroughly preparing the system for its administration?
Much, we apprehend, is yet to be learned upon the subject of intermittent fever ; and a great
boon would be conferred upon the profession by him who would make a series of careful obser-
vations upon the disease, the comparative value of large and small doses of quinine, the best
means of obviating relapses, and various other points of interest. Notwithstanding the care
which was taken to effect a thorough cure of the disease, second, tliird, and fourth attacks were
experienced in the course of the summer and fall ; not, I believe, from an inevitable necessity,
but from a reckless disregard of ordinary precautions, and a wilful neglect of advice given. It
is gratifying, notwithstanding every obstacle, that the month of December lias expired without
any serious impairment of health. And if, under the privations and exposures of a camp life,
in a malarious locality, the medical officer shall carry his charge througli an unhealthy season,
with its physical vigor not seriously diminished, he may consider it a triumph of liis noble art.
The laws of nature he cannot annul; morbific emanations will continue to spring from the soil,
and poison the common air ; the scorching rays of the midday sun, and the chilling blasts of the
320 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
midnight winds, will alternately unduly excite and depress the vital movements of this myste-
rious frame ; last, not least, the reckless transgressions of the laws of health and morals will
assuredly reap their merited penalties. The medical man must, in humility, submit, and be
content to exercise the high but limited power vouchsafed to him, of relieving the effects of
causes wisely held from his control. In military life he will meet with much to annoy, and see
enough to disgust him; and it will require a constant effort to school himself to patience witli
tlie subjects of liis professional care. He should try, nevertheless, to realize the humane senti-
ment, that disease and suifering level all distinctions; that the poor, miserable inebriate, writh-
ing on a bed of sickness, and the good man suffering its pangs, demand an equal effort of his
skill. By adopting it as his guide on entering the service, the j'oung medical officer will never
have cause of self-reproach ; and whether his professional efforts be crowned with victory, or
covered by defeat, he will be sustained by the consciousness of duty faithfully performed.
Above all, let him remember that the aj^proaches of disease are often insidious; and that what-
ever may be the character of a soldier, (and many of them are trickish and prone to deceive,)
his case should receive a calm and deliberate consideration. This advice may seem out of place ;
but the young medical officer will do well to bear it constantly in mind during the earlier por-
tion of his array life, and iintil a more matured experience shall have made him acquainted
with the specialities of the service.
The liability to relapses and fresh attacks of intermittent fever is well known to the army sur-
geon, and a subject of frequent and thoughtful consideration. Soldiers, as a class, are proverbially
reckless. Although warned, when returned to duty, against throwing themselves into currents of
fresh air after having been heated by drill or other military duty, I have known relapses repeat-
edly induced by such exposure. An hour's exposure to the ardent rays of the sun, in the passive
amusement of fishing, has repeatedly brought back to the hospital soldiers who, a few days before,
were returned to duty in perfect health. In one soldier, three successive attacks were traced to
gluttony; and nothing but alarm, excited by the severity of the last^ led him to restrain his appe-
tite. But, of all the predisposing causes, constipation was the most usual. On returning soldiers
to duty, they were distinctly warned against such a state, and directed to apply for medicine to
obviate it. The very few who followed the advice, derived advantage from it ; but in a large
majority of second and third attacks, constipation had existed for several days. Nor is it diffi-
cult to explain why it should have been so. The retention of excrementitious material in the
colon and rectum proves irritant to an extensive mucous surface, produces sympathetic disturb-
ance of the stomach and liver, and co-operates with the cause of the disease in reproducing the
element of functional derangement^it helps to forge the first link of the morbid chain. It is,
indeed, vitally important at the south to guard against torpor of the bowels — a homely truth,
which should receive the religious attention of every officer and soldier serving in that portion
of our country. Military duties, exposing the soldier alternately to the hot sun and night air,
are unavoidable causes of disease, with which the medical officer has but little concern. In-
vested, nevertheless, with medical charge of a command, he can give such advice to the sick
and convalescent as may be of advantage to them. It is true that, through recklessness, few
will profit by it; but he will have the satisfaction of having discharged his duty, and, apart
from the emoluments of his commission, this is the only reward he can reap in the service.
In occupying a position in a region where malarial fevers may be anticipated, are there any
measures that might be instituted against their access, or, falling short of this, that might
temper the force of their attacks? This presents an interesting field of investigation. That a
rigid enforcement of the laws of health would lead to beneficial results, cannot be doubted.
Unfortunately, there is a very rare interchange of views between commanding and medical offi-
cers. The former do not, perhaps, appreciate the importance of such considerations; the latter,
by the custom of service, are reduced too much to the condition of mere prescribers for the sick.
What medical officer of experience is there who has not traced attacks of disease to the impru-
dence of soldiers, which might have been controlled by commanding officers — to exposure to
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA. 321
the broiling sun in Inmting or fishing; to bathing at unseasonable hours, &c., &c.; this, too,
when scarce an liour passed without some soldier reporting sick with fever ? Who has not been
vexed at seeing men, who a few days before had been returned to duty in perfect health, relapse
into fever through exposures unnecessary and not in the line of their duties? Observation has
satisfied me that a large amount of disease might be avoided, if officers in command, on the
occupation of an unhealthy position, instituted, under the advice of their medical staff, a system
of discipline having reference to the predisposing and exciting causes of disease.
The affections of the digestive and respiratory system were few in number, mild in character,
such as might have occurred in any locality, and hardly deserve a special consideration in this
paper. The diarrhoeas yielded readily to a rational treatment. The dysenteries, being unattended
by general excitement, were treated, for two consecutive days, by an oleaginous aperient in the
morning, a large dose of Dover's powder at nighty a warm sinapism to the abdomen morning
and evening, with a fluid farinaceous diet. After the grade of local excitement had been some-
what lowered by these means, a combination of hydrar: cum creta, pulv: Doveri, et pulv: rhei,
administered in moderate doses at regular intervals, soon caused the blood and mucus to give
place to fajcal discharges. After the disease has continued for some time, I think I have derived
benefit from directing an enema of cold water before the patient rises in the morning, so as
thoroughlj- to wash out the lower bowel. During the night, there is formed in the lower i^art
of the colon and rectum an accumulation of vitiated secretions, which, calling into action by
their irritant power the excito-motory system of that part of the bowels, leads to frequent sudden
and involuntary efforts to expel their contents. The cold enema, by washing out the offending
cause, and giving tone to the relaxed and congested capillaries, diminishes the frequency of
these expulsive efforts, and materially promotes the comfort of the patient.
FORTPIEKCE. .•
Fort Pierce, one hundred and seventy miles south of St. Augustine, is situated on a blufi"
about fifteen feet above the water-level of Indian river, on which it is established. The bluff
on which the post is located is part of a liigli range of land which extends along the western
border of the river for many miles, and is the most elevated portion of land in this region of
coimtry. Two hundred yards west of the post there is a pond, about three-fourths of a mile in
circumference; the principal part of which is dry during the summer, exposing a sandy bottom,
which is soon covered with grass. The country, generally, is very low, and in the rainy season
is covered with water. In fact, it appears to be a succession of ponds^ partially dry during the
warm season. The water of the river is highly impregnated with salt, and abounds in oysters
and fish of the finest description. The soil of the country consists of loose sand, and is very
poor, producing pine, scrub-oak, and occasionally palmetto. The water used in drinking is
impregnated with sulphuretted hydrogen, and aftects the bowels of those unaccustomed to it;
these effects, however, soon wear off, and it becomes palatable and wholesome. The prevailing
winds in summer are southeast, or trade-winds, and northerly winds in winter. The heat of a
vertical sun in the summer season is very oppressive, which, together with the mosquitoes,
renders a residence here during the months of May, June, July, and August, almost insup-
portable. These evils are, however, greatly ameliorated by the sea-breeze, which generally
prevails here throughout the day during the warm season. In winter, frost is seldom seen ; and
the climate, in every respect, throughout this period, is perhaps unsurpassed by any in the world.
The prevailing diseases have been diarrhoea, dysentery, and slight bilious affections, attributable
rather to imprudence, the relaxing influence of a warm climate, and the water, rather than to
any miasmatic origin. The bilious attacks have invariably yielded to a mercurial cathartic,
followed by ol: ricini; the diarrhoeas and dysenteries to opium, camphor, and blue-mass, in
connexion with a light diet.
These observations are derived from the reports of Assistant Surgeon James R. Conrad.
s. 96 ti
322
EEPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
FORT DALLAS.
This post, according to a Lrief note by Assistant Surgeon J. L. Adkins, is situated on a com-
paratively high bluff, near the mouth of the Miami river, and overlooking Key Biscayne bay,
a beautiful sheet of water, separating the post from the sea by about three miles' distance. The
soil is very light, and broken tor the most part by limestone rock. The pine-barrens are com-
posed of silicious sand, vegetable, and other matter. The hammocks are the most productive
of any portion of the coast. The pomegranate, fig, orange, lemon, lime, citron, and other
fruits are cultivated, blossoming and bearing the year round. The American aloe grows to a
great height. Frost rarely visits this locality, and, as spring is perennial, fruits, flowers, and
vegetables are always present. The temperature is remarkably uniform, not exceeding a vari-
ation of 10° from summer heat the greatest part of the year ; and when highest, a refreshing
breeze from the ocean constantly gives a spring-like character to the atmosphere.
KEY WEST BARRACKS,
On Key West, or Thompson's Island, about forty miles southwest of Cape Sable, and be-
tween eighty and ninety miles north of Plavana, with the Gulf stream between. According to
Assistant Surgeon R. F. Simpson, "the length of the island from east to west is about seven
miles, with an average width of one mile and a half. The highest part of the island is not
more than ten feet above the level ot the sea, and at ordinary tides many parts are under water.
It forms a portion of the Florida Reef, on which annually many vessels are wrecked. The
greater part of the surface of the island is covered with a dense jungle, with many marshes
and ponds, some of which, during the rainy season, are filled with fresh water; others with a
mixture of fresh and salt water. The basis of the island is tertiary — limestone, with sand,
shells, and coral. The population (1854) is about 3,000, of which 1,000 are Concks, or
Bahamans, 750 negroes, and the remainder Americans, English, Irish, Germans, Portuguese,
Italians, and Spaniards. The Concks are a peculiar race, S2)eak a language difficult for a
stranger to understand ; they intermarry sometimes with very near relatives, are very prolific,
and some of their children are horribly deformed."
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Number treateil.
Deaths.
Ratio peb 1,000 of mean btrenqth.
Treated. Died.
851
835
900
754
479
602
887
440
1
5
12
3
563
721
985
583
1
6
Third tiuarter __
13
Fourth u viartcr
4
Annual ratio. _._._....
835
2,408
21
1
2.883 1 25
It appears from the foregoing data that the average annual proportion of cases of disease to
the number of men was 2.88 to 1 ; that the corresponding ratio of deaths was 1 to 39.74, or
2.5 per cent.; and that the proportion of deaths to the number of cases treated was 1 to 114.66,
or 0.87 per cent.
AMONG THE TKOOPS IN FLOSIDA
323
FE\'ERS.
FOURTH.
Proportion of iloalliH to
cases.
g
t- ei
Strengtli
851
835
900
754
835
|i
- 3
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Febris continua communis
Febris intermittens quotidiana
Febris intermittens tertiana..
Febris intermittens quartana.
5
20
21
6
7
2
61
25
2
11
9
2
6
158
50
1
56
24
1
9
4
39
32
12
17
278
128
9
86
33
1
11
lin 17
in 278
in 128
in 9
in 86
in
lin 3
20.3
333
153
10.7
103
Febris typlius
Febris typhus icterodes
39
Total
59
110
2
295
10
87
551
12
lin 46
659
The thirty-three cases of yellow fever reported in the general abstract for this region occurred
at Key West Barracks in the second and third quarters of 1854. Assistant Surgeon R. F. Simp-
son, in tran.smitting his report for the third quarter 1854, remarks as follows:
" During the past season yellow fever has prevailed as an epidemic, and has proved very fatal,
not only to strangers, but to persons who have been living on the island for years. As nearly as
I can ascertain, there were in the town 250 cases, and 100 deaths. In August, 1853, two soldiers
were sent to this garrison from Fort Brooke, Tampa. One died of yellow fever shortly after
his arrival, and the other died of the same disease in September, The first case that I can hear
of in town, was a young lady who came from Tallahassee; she died in November, 1853; and
from that time till April, 1854, there were a few cases, and some deaths. From April to
August the disease became general. At first it was confined to the centre of the town, in the
immediate vicinity of a large pond, which had been the receptacle for quantities of filth and
decayed vegetable matter. Radiating from this point, it gradually spread over the whole
island, attacking indiscriminately whites and blacks ; being most fatal in June and July. The
first case in the garrison occurred in the person of the hospital steward, who had exposed him-
self both to the sun and to the night air in attending the sick on the island. He sickened on the
28th of May, and died on the 1st of June, with black vomit. In addition to the thirty-three
cases and eleven deaths reported as occurring among the troops, there were sixteen cases in
families at the post, one of which died."
The total cases treated 49, deaths 12. Dr. Simpson expresses his belief that the disease had
its origin in local causes.
324
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters .
Strenfftli .
Diseases.
851
835
900
Deaths. Cases.
"5t
Cases.
835
'2
582
Ul
12
3.5
1.2
2.4
122
100
966 .
Oiolcra Asiatiea
Diarrha'a. .
Dysenteria acuta
Dysenteria chronica . .
Enteritis -
Hepatitis acuta. -
Hepatitis chronica
Obstipatio
All other diseasesof this system
Total
85
126
37
24
4
1
3
1
1
1
33
23
15
33
167
39
1
1
2
33
22
108
18
2
14
14
486
118
10
3
1
2
103
84
176
210
265
156
807
in
in 486
1 in 118
1 in 3
in 3
Oin 1
in 2
in 103
1 in 84
1 in 161
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM.
Quarters .... .--.--.. .-
FIRST.
SECOND.
TUIRD.
FOURTH.
YEAR.
2
.a
ea
13 .
I
s
^!'
Strength
851
835
900
754
835
S §
o a
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Bronchitis acuta et chronica .
5
21
1
3
2
1
15
2
18
1
3
1
26
1
G
80
2
9
2
1
in C
Oin 80
lin 2
in 9
in
in 2
7
95.8
2.3
Pleuri tis ........-...--.---
10.7
Pneumonia .-_-_ _-.-
All other diseases of this sys-
2.4
Total
32
18
22
1
27
99
1
lin 99
118
I
21
22
21 '
16
80
Oin 80
95.8
The original reports are without comment respecting diseases of the organs connected with
the digestive and respiratory systems.
GULF COAST OF FLORIDA.
The troops stationed in West Florida, and on the immediate shores of the Gulf of Mexico,
have been much more actively employed in the field than those stationed in East Florida
and on the Atlantic coast. In addition to this difference of service, which would of course tend
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA. 325
to increase the amount of sickness among the troops in this region, the exigencies of the service,
and the special duty to be performed, rendered the occupation of sickly positions unavoidable.
These facts should be considered in any deductions to be drawn from the statistics for this group
of posts.
The quarterly reports embraced in the general abstract, though rendered for separate posts
or forts, necessarily include the cases of sickness actually incurred in the field, as most of the
field duty was performed by scouting parties temporarily absent from their permanent stations.
The positions most permanently occupied are Barrancas Barracks, Forts Brooke, Meade, and
Myers. In addition to these, the troops have occupied eight temporary posts in the six years
covered by the general abstract for this region.
MEDICAL TOPOGEAPHY AXD DISEASES OF BAKRANCAS BARRACKS.
By Assistant Surgeon John F. Hammond : 1854.
Barrancas Barracks is on the north side of Pensacola bay, near its mouth, in latitude 30°
19' N.; longitude 87° 16' 9" W., and 30 feet above the level of the sea. It is located on a
sand bluff about 25 feet high above the beach, and about 400 yards from the edge of the bay.
North of it, for a mile, is a strip of sandy country timbered with pines and undergrowth of
several kinds of oak. Just beyond this is the Bayou Grande, G miles long, and 200 yards wide
opposite the barracks, running east and west, and opening into the bay three miles east of the
barracks. On the west is Fort Barrancas, a quarter of a mile distant, and the country beyond
similar to that just described. On the south, extending along the foot of the bluff for a mile,
and about 100 yards wide, is a belt of land, always damp, and flooded in rainy seasons. A few
years ago there were a number of ponds upon this belt. They have been drained by a ditch
■which at all times contains water. Beyond this moist strip, the beach of brilliant white sand
spreads out like a sheet of snow to the water's edge. On the east is, first, the naval hospital,
a quarter of a mile distant, similarly located, except that there is a little swamp behind it, as
well as the moist ground in front. Half a mile east of it is a canal, which drains a large swamp
that extends eastward, just north of Warrington and the navy-yard. The latter are a mile
east of the barracks, and are between the beach and a large swamp, the southern half of which
is imperfectly drained and cleared.
During the prevalence of the east wind, which comes directly over the swamp, the navy-yard,
Warrington, and the naval hospital, and of the northeast and north winds, which blow over
the bayou, it was observed that a greater number of persons were attacked by the fever, and
those already sick became worse. The number of new cases very evidently diminislied, and tlie
sick improved, when the wind changed to the southeast, south, or southwest, where it came from
the Gulf.
Early in July, 1853, a detachment of recruits for the navy arrived at the Pensacola navv-
yard from the rendezvous in New Orleans. The 9th of the same month, five of them were ad-
mitted with yellow fever at the naval hospital in the vicinity. They were the first cases of the
fever seen at Pensacola bay that season. Several of the attendants who nursed them were taken
sick shortly after with yellow fever. The disease extended no further from them.
On the 24th of July, the same year, the U. S. steamer Vixen came into the harbor from
Tampico, and moored alongside of the navy-yard wharf. A few days after her arrival, a white
boy, ten or eleven years of age, who had for two or three successive days frequented her for the
purpose of fishing from her decks, sickened with yellow fever. Ho slept with his little sister.
She was very soon taken with tlie same disease. They were carried into the country. Both of
them died with black vomit. These were the first cases at the bay that originated outside of
the walls of the naval hospital.
Immediately after the arrival of the Vixen, a case of fractiire was sent from her to the naval
hospital, and the man's mattress was thrown overbonnl. Tlie latter drifted to the beach, and
326 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
was picked up by a negro employed in tlie navy-yard. Within a day or two after he was seized
with yellow lever, and died with black vomit. This was the third case that occurred, not
counting those mentioned as in the hospital. All of the comrades of the man, and who were
his nurses — seven or eight, or more — were taken soon after with yellow fever. The people of
the Vixen had suffered when at Tampico, and on her passage home, witli a remitting fever,
which was designated by those on board the Tampico fever . They soon began to fill tlie wards
of the naval liospital, and did not cease until sixty-six of them were admitted witli yellow fever.
In the mean time, tlie commodore in command of the navy-yard being sick, the Vixen lay at or
near the yard, and the daily sea-breeze spread her effluvia through the community. Tiie disease
sjiread rapid!}*, and involved all classes in the navy-yard, and nearly the whole population with-
out, in the immediate vicinity. A man was admitted into the naval hospital the 26th of Au-
gust with yellow fever. He was placed in a ward where there had not as yet been any case of
the fever. There were several other patients in the ward when he arrived. Two or tliree days
after his arrival, three of the patients of the ward sickened with yellow fever. The man nearest
on his right, and the man nearest on his left, were the first of those taken. It was observed
that the earliest to take the disease in the hospital were the attendants or nurses of the sick —
those who came more frequently and more closely in contact with them.
The 17th August a discharged soldier was brought from a drunken debauch in Warrington —
a suburb of the navy-yard, peopled by its civil employees and their families — to the mili-
tary hospital at Barrancas Barracks. He ajipeared to have delirium tremens. He was sub-
ject to it. He soon became comatose, and died a few hours after. He turned very yellow after
death. It was a case of yellow fever, and it was the first that was at Barrancas. His compan-
ions in the last debauch were men of the crew of the Vixen. Several of them attended iiis
funeral.
The occurrence of the fever so late at Barrancas might be attributable to the little intercourse
of its residents with those of other places, due to the warmth of the sun, and the deejj, heavy,
sandy soil.
A day or two after the death of the man last mentioned, a case of obstinate quotidian inter-
mittent fever occurred in a house beside the hospital. And about the same time the only two
patients in the ward where he died (both had sj'philis) were seized with fever — one with a
light remittent, the other was ephemeral. The 21st of the same month the men at the barracks
began to sicken with the yellow fever, and from that time it gradually sjiread through the com-
mand and the neighborhood.
The attendants in the hospital were so uniformly taken sick with the fever a short time after
entering upon their duties, that, in the end, the greater part of the command had been attend-
ants. Not one of them escaped it.
A watchman at the navy-yard, a recently discharged soldier, was taken sick with the fever
in August. Several of his late comrades at the barracks visited and nursed him. He died with
black vomit. It was a virulent case. All who nursed him sickened with the fever, and several
of them died with black vomit.
Of the command at Barrancas, but seven men escaped the epidemic. Of the latter, one (a
sergeant) had the yellow fever in Charleston, S. C, in 1839 ; one "had a severe fever in New
Orleans, the summer of 1847;" two had the yellow fever in Vera Cruz^ in 1848; one was sta-
tioned at a fortification, (Fort Macree, three miles distant from the barracks,) and was at no time
with the sick ; another was the company cook, and in every way exposed to the malaria ; and
another resided at a distance from Barrancas, and, notwithstanding he was somewhat exi^osed to
the weather, and had occasional intercourse with the sick, escaped. Several of the men who
had kejit away from the sick escaped the disease until late in the season, when the general sick-
ness required them to be detailed as attendants.
If there were epidemic peculiarities, they were, probably, greater tendency to early stupor,
and to congestion of the bowels and dysentery, with discharges of blood ; earlier gastric irrita-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA. 327
bility ; the disease less tractalile after the early part of the first stage ; earlier and more delirium ;
and intolerance of loss of blood. It attacked equally all classes — Creoles and other natives of
all ages, and residents of many years; except the negroes, among whom it was less fatal. No
instance was observed in which it occurred in a person who had had the yellow fever before. It
did not run its course very quickly. The earliest death remarked was seventy hours from the
commencement of the attack. It reached the maximum the fifth day, generally, and death oc-
curred the seventh or eighth day. As an epidemic, it swept like a temj)est through the peo-
ple — sudden, short, terrible in its effects.
The apparent contagiousness of the disease was a subject of general remark, and not a ques-
tion. Eruptions upon the lips, and sometimes boils and carbuncles — as is the case in all mala-
rious fevers, attended by abatement of the fever — were so constant as to entitle it to be called an
eruptive fever. There might be little impropriety in placing all the malarious fevers in that
class. It may be that during the epidemic this season, there was a mild form of typhus fever
running its course at the same time with the yellow fever, lending its contagiousness ; or, which
is most apt to be the truth, that its contagiousness was apparent because it was more malignant
than was ever observed here before, and that the contagiousness of all malarious fevers is in
jiroportion to their general malignancy, or the concentrated state of the cause of the disease.
The i)ortability of yellow fever should not be questioned.
The attack was preceded for two or three days by depression ; chilliness ; constipation ; the
appetite not much impaired. The patient usually attributed the attack to cold he thought
he had caught just p*-eviously. It began, generally, before day-light in the morning. The
patient was benumbed; had shiverings; pain of head ; loss of appetite; no thirst; perhaps
a little nausea. If his feet were placed in warm water about 8 o'clock, A. m., reaction would
speedily take place ; the surface become hot ; the face flushed and tumid ; the pulse frequent and
moderately full; the tongue slightly furred, white, moist; pain of head severe, extending down
the back of the neck, and felt as if caused by a fluid poured down the vertebral canal ; a burning
sensation in the eyes ; intense pains in the small of the back ; thirst ; nausea ; vomiting ; con-
stipation ; the urine deeply colored. Not many hours afterward, the surface would become
dingy ; the eyes much injected, and the balls painful ; thirst increased, but never intense; fre-
quent vomiting. Sometimes the last did not occur until near the end, when^ without any ap-
jiarent premonition to the jiatient, the black vomit would si)irt out, perhaps into the face of the
attendant. The pharynx would become sore and painful ; the eyes and skin yellow ; the tongue
moist on the edges, dark brown and dry in the centre; indift'erence to objects around him, or
intolerance of visitors and noise ; delirium ; urine scant, and of a brown color ; hemorrhage from
the gums or nose; black vomit; bloody discharges from the bowels; coma, or convulsions;
death. In the cases that recovered^ there was almost invariably an eruption about the lips,
and boils and small abscesses (sometimes carbuncles) over the body at a later period. The
disease was regarded as of miasmatic origin, and treated accordingly. One case will serve to
show the general plan of treatment at Barrancas, and apparently illustrate in a degree the re-
lationship of yellow fever and intermittent fever.
An officer was taken sick the 8th of September. He had been constantly with the sick.
For several days previous lo the attack, he felt depressed; a sense of weight in the stomach;
torpor of mental faculties, and chilliness. At first he attributed his attack to exposure the
night before. He was taken with chilliness, generally; some pain in the head; the tongue
nearly natural; some appetite; no thirst; nausea. He was so unwell, as to be induced, after
his morning duties were finished, to take a hot foot-bath. The symptoms of the early stage of
yellow fever, given above, were fully developed in less than an hour afterwards.
He was immediately given hj'drarg: chlor: mite; sulph: quinias; each 20 grains. Two hours
afterwards, the quinine had produced no effect on his hc-ad. Forty grains of it were then admin-
istered. At the end of six hours after the calomel was taken, an ounce of castor-oil was given
him. It was vomited, and, with it, some of the quinine. An hour afterward the dose of oil
328 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
was repeated, and it was retained. Ice was given him to eat when he desired it. He was a
little delirious during that night; slept none until toward morning; sweated very profusely.
At the end oi' twenty-four hours from the foot-hath, the medicine had evacuated his howels ; the
skin was soft and moist ; the fever nearly entirely gone ; his head was clear, scarcely any effect
of the quinine on the sensorium perceived hy him; tongue a little furred, white; pain of head ;
pain in the halls of the eyes increased; intolerance of visitors and conversation; some nausea.
A hlister-plaster six inches square was applied to the epigastrium, and mercurial frictions
employed on the extremities ; the bowels to he kept open by enemata, if necessary. No medi-
cine was given hy the mouth ; nothing to eat ; ice, ice-water, iced lemonade, if desired. Toward
noon his fever was quite perceptible, hut abated in the afternoon. During the night there
was another exacerbation, wliich remitted again in tlie morning. Tliat night (the second)
excruciating torture from ])ains of his loins; he screamed with all liis force, constantly. The
relief of them was attributed, at the time, to mustard cataplasms and^ morphine; but it was not
effected until near day-light. They did not return after that night with much intensity. The
blister was dressed with mercurial ointment, and tlie use of the latter was continued until the
gums were touched. The fever continued remitting until the fifth day, when it left liim, and
he was very much prostrated. He had some appetite, and was allowed to take gruel. The
sixth day some light corn-batter cakes, buttered, were sent him. He ate two of them when
they were warm, and they agreed with him very well. At noon he ate two more of them.
They were cold, and he ate them with less care. At night he had dysentery, with bloody
stools. It was immediately stopped by an opiated enema. He recovered .slowly, and reported
for duty, still very feeble, the seventeenth day after tlie attack.
It would have been better to have commenced the treatment with a general warm bath, a little
more than tepid. The quinine should have been in solution, because it acts more promptly in
that state. And it should have been given shortly after the calomel, in a dose of forty grains,
and repeated in from two to six hours afterward, in a dose of twenty to forty grains. It should
have been given in doses of two or three grains during the third twelve hours, and then finally
discontinued. The quinine, when given after the first thirty-six hours, appeared to cause or
increase irritability of the stomach, to induce in some cases nervous irritation resembling
delirium tremens, and to produce early delirium. It and the calomel were both suspended in
the above case, to guard against irritating the stomach.
The cerate of Spanish flies was used for blistering. It would have been better had some other
vesicant been employed. The active principle of the fly, absorbed into the circulation, stimu-
lates the system generally, and determines or predisposes to local inflammation in the acute
stage. This is obvious in most acute diseases. It rarely fails to irritate painfully the kidneys,
ureters, and neck of the bladder.
All visitors should have been excluded until the fever had ceased for twenty-four hours, and
noise been prevented; and the light excluded, at the same time that the ventilation of the
chamber was kept free.
He should not have been allowed to eat anything until he had appetite, or until after the
fever ceased, and then gruel only should have been given for several days, and simple broth
cautiously substituted for it. When the latter was given early, it caused dysentery that was
difficult to control in several instances.
Calomel was given, at an early period of the epidemic, in doses of two or three grains every
hour or two hours, during the third and fourth twelve hours. But, from its sedative action
on the stomach, or indirect stimulation of it and the bowels, by its influence on the secretory
apparatus of the liver, or by its modification of the blood, it seemed to cause an early tendency
to black vomit, and to cause the black vomit. Mercury was not employed by the mouth after
the first free evacuation of the bowels by it.
The patient, whose case is given above, recuperated very slowly. The pains of his loins
continued severe for many days. They were increased by mental application. He was sen-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA. 329
sible of them at all times when not asleep. But there seemed to be exacerbations of them,
occurring at midday. He observed, several times, in the mornings, that he had had profuse
perspiration during the preceding night. He took moderate exercise to regain his strength,
without avail. At length his appetite began to fail. He was much annoyed by chilliness.
And after two weeks from the time he returned to duty, he went to bed with fever. It was
intermittent fever, the paroxysms occurring every night at midnight. Here was, apparently, the
yellow fever gradually converted into an almost indistinguishable remittent fever, marked by
the exacerbations of the pains at midday, and the sweats observable in the morning, which
doubtless followed an exacerbation at midnight, and finally running into an intermittent fever,
rendered more 23ercei)tible by some accidental cause. It became severe. The tongue was heavily
coated, white; there was much irritation of stomach; great thirst, and nausea; severe pain in
the head, the eyeballs, and small of the back. A general warm bath was employed, calomel
and castor-oil given, a blister-plaster was applied to the epigastrium, and fifty grains of qui-
nine, in ten-grain doses, administered in the course of forty-eight hours. The fever disappeared,
and the stomach regained its integrity. But the blister was followed by a crop of fifteen or
sixteen carbuncles on the epigastrium, with sloughs from two to twelve lines in diameter.
They were very painful, and matured and healed slowly. The fever returned with a chill
several times afterward, and there was a tendency to return again and again.
This case aflbrds a fine instance of yellow fever. Its subsidence through the different forms
of miasmatic fever, as the Cixuse was removed, not to say eliminated, and as circumstances per-
mitted the latter to produce a sensible effect, is perceptible ; and the peculiar influence of sul-
phate of quinine in malarious fevers is evident. The tendency of the fever to return in an in-
termittent form was observed in many of the other cases of yellow fever that recovered. There
was one case which recovered after the occurrence of the black vomit. The subject was a man
of medium size ; bilious temperament ; age about 24 years ; native of Virginia ; a soldier. He
was seized with the fever in the midst of a drunken debauch, in Pensacola, the 26th of August.
The fever was obviously lessened by quinine, given early ; but it returned. His skin and eyes
were deeply tinged yellow as early as the third day. At the same time, there were symjitoms
of nervous irritation — tremors. The fourth day the tremors were excessive, and there was some
delirium. The fifth day he was quite delirious, and excessively tremulous. This continued
more or less until the seventh day. Until that time, from the second day, he was, when seen at
the usual visits, in a profuse sweat. The seventh day the skin became dry, the tongue brown
and dry, and the delirium constant. He was placed in a general warm bath. Shortly after
he was removed from it, his pulse was reduced ; skin quite moist with perspiration ; intellect
decidedly more clear. He slept comparatively well that night. The eighth day his mind was
quite collected ; skin moist ; tongue had lost its dryness ; and he asked for something to eat.
A little gruel was given him. At the regular evening visit, at 9 o'clock, his mouth, shirt,
and bedding were stained with recent black vomit. He said he "had been vomiting some
blood;" but he seemed unconscious of his danger. The tincture of the muriate of iron, and a
little sulphate of quinine, were given him through the night. His pulse rose the succeeding
night at the same hour that the vomiting occurred the night previous, but the vomiting did not
ensue. He very slowly recovered. During the convalescence he was much annoyed by boils
and little superficial abscesses.
FORT BROOKE.
[From quarterly reports of Surgeon A. N. McLaren.]
Fort Brooke is located at the head of Tampa bay, near the mouth of Hillsboro' river. The
hospital, situated on an elevated piece of ground in the immediate vicinity of the river, is hand-
somely encircled by a small grove of live-oak trees, which not only adds to its beauty, but at
the same time affords a cool refreshing shade to the invalid. The general aspect of the coimtry
is low and level. The drainage is good. This post is generally healthy; but in some years,
S. 96 42
330 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
when the interior of the country has been flooded and afterwards dried hy a tropical sun, severe
forms of intermittent and remittent fever prevail. This is especially the case when the wind
is E.N.E. from the interior. During the Florida war, the principal general hospital was estab-
lished here.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT MEADE.
By Assistant Surgeon Jonathan Letherman : 1852.
Fort Meade, Florida, is a cantcnment situated forty-six miles, in a southeasterly direction,
from Tampa, Florida. The Talakchopko (Peas) river, a fctream from forty to fifty yards wide,
runs in a course nearly south, about a mile east of the post. The station is upon an elevated
piece of ground, upon all sides of which is a gentle descent. The country being generally low
and flat, this elevation, though slight, is higher tlian any portion of the land for many miles
to the west. The spot upon which stands the post is in a belt of land from seven to eight miles
in width and many miles long, running northeast and southwest, the timber of which, except
upon the streams, has for the most part been killed. The pine trees, which in this, as in the
greater part of the State, constitute the principal portion of the timber, have died, from some
cause unknown — most probably from the ravages of some worm or insect. They are stripped of
their sap-wood, and, being blackened and partially burned by the fires which annually sweep
over the country^ cause tliis portion to present an unusually dreary and barren appearance.
Young pine and small oak trees are again growing in this space.
The banks of the river and all the streams are skirted on either side with a thick and luxu-
riant growth of trees, bushes, and vines. These are called low hammocks, in contradistinction
to the hammocks which are foutid upon the Kissimmee river, and thence to the eastern coast.
The latter are liigher than the land around, and are dry. The former are lower, and are often
overflown during the summer. These low hammocks consist of a large growth of cypress, mag-
nolia grandiflora, oak, and hickory trees; underneath is a rank and luxuriant vegetation, vines,
palmettoes, and bushes rendering them almost impenetrable. In the hammock on the river,
near the post, is a grove of sour orange trees, which bear abundantly.
The aspect of the country from Tampa to within twenty miles of the river Kissimmee presents
an entirely different appearance from what it does from the latter point to Fort Capron, on
Indian river. The former is higher, and the country more rolling — if the term can be applied
to such slight elevations as are there seen ; the latter low and flat, and, east of the Kissimmee,
so entirely overflown by water during the summer as to be wellnigh impassable. The whole
country from one coast to the other is intersjjersed with numerous marshes, some of which are
dry during the winter.
Away from the banks of the streams, pines are the principal timber; a tough, wiry grass,
with a round blade, and some palmettoes, constitute the principal undergrowth. Upon the low
grounds bordering many ot the streams, a rank grass, with a broad spear-shaped blade, grows
luxuriantly.
Sand, mixed with a small portion of vegetable matter, constitutes the soil of the greater
portion of the country. The proportion of vegetable matter is much greater upon the banks
of the streams. A few feet beneath the surface, near the post, is found a mixture of sand and
clay. The sand is insoluble in sulphuric, nitric, or muriatic acids; it is not affected by them
in any manner. Organic remains are found in the river, which runs near this post — in its
bed and upon its banks. I have in my possession a remain, which is evidently a portion of
a tooth of some huge animal, which I picked up from the bottom of this river, while stationed
at Fort Chokonikla (twelve miles south of this post) in the summer of 1850. Olher remains
are found, but whether vegetable or animal I am not able to determine. The water is so dis-
colored, and the river so deep during and long after the rainy season, that it is impossible to
obtain any specimens. A list of the flora is herewith transmitted; the greater portion I have
noted from personal observation. It does not comprise the entire flora, but the principal and
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA. 331
great majority are there noted. A list of the fauna is also transmitted; this is also made
out principally from personal observation. The list is as nearly complete as I am able now
to furnish. By a reference to the meteorological table, it will be perceived that the winter of
1851— '.52 was an exceedingly cold one for this latitude; the iormation of ice being no uncom-
mon occurrence. Officers and men suffered much from the cold ; the quarters being entirely
inadequate for their protection. The buildings are very inferior; those of the men are no more
than sheds, which afford but little protection from the rain or cold. Being placed upon posts
several feet high, and situated upon the highest ground in the vicinity, and no trees of any
size near, they are necessarily much exposed to the winds, which frequently, during the winter,
blow strong and cold. Did these buildings turn the rain, they would be comfortable durino'
the summer ; but during the winter they are utterly insufficient to afford proper shelter from
the inclement weather. The quarters of the officers are but little superior to those of the men;
they do not turn the rain^ and give little protection from the cold. The quarters of the men
have, however, been somewhat improved of late, but they are still very inferior. The weather
is oppressively warm just previous to the opening of the rainy season, which occurs in the latter
part of May, or first part of June. Eain falls almost daily from this time until some time in
September; and sometimes so abundantly as to render the country almost impassable from the
great quantity of water.
For nine months of the year the climate in the interior is, for the most part, enervating,
producing a feeling averse to exertion, of relaxation of the whole body, which is trying to any
constitution. The warmth and moisture during the summer produce, upon exertion, a sense
of exhaustion, greater or less in proportion to the amount of exercise ; which, to saythe least,
is very unpleasant, and which sometimes has required remedies for its removal. The invigor-
ating effects of the sea-breezes are not felt. Should the health of the troops be considered, it would
be advisable to have them stationed upon the coast during the hot and wet weather of the summer.
An examination of the hospital register from January, 1851, to September, 1852, both months
inclusive, shows that the preponderance of cases of fevers occurred during the third quarter of the
year. An exception is found in the third quarter of 1851, but the fourth quarter of that year hav-
ing the greater number of cases, the exception is only apparent. A change of troops, garrison-
ing the post, took place during the first part of October of that year. The troops that relieved
those who had previously been stationed here, had suffered much from fever here in 1850, were
removed to Fort Myers, and came to this post from that place, where they had also suffered from
fevers. Had they been stationed here continuously, they doubtless would not have made an
exception.
During the summer of 1850 sickness jjrevailed here to a great extent. This, I doubt not,
was owing to the position which the camp (as it then was) occupied. This position was upon
the low ground upon the bank of the river, enclosed upon three sides by a hammock formed by
that of a small stream joining that of the river. This space is covered by a thick growth of
small pine and small oak trees. The wind is almost debarred access to it, except when it comes
from a northerly direction, which it seldom does during the summer. When stationed here in
November, 1850, I suggested to Lieutenant Morris, 1st artillery, commanding the post, the dis-
advantageous position of the camp in reference to the health of the troops, and suggested the
propriety of having it removed to the rising and open piece of ground which the post now occu-
pies. I supposed the spot upon which the camp was then pitched gave rise to malaria (crypto-
gamia?) abundantly ; that, as it was so enclosed by hammocks, the air must necessarily be con-
fined, and the malarious influence must be more concentrated. There has been an evident
decrease in the number of cases of fever since the position has been changed. I have not the
data, however, for making an exact comparison between the summer and autumn of 1850 and
that succeeding.
The register shows that intermittent fevers prevail to a considerable extent. They vary in
intensity, from the mildest and slightest to the severe and»prolonged paro.xysm; all, however,
thus far, have been amenable to treatment. Irritability and inflammation of the stomach are
332 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
very frequent concomitants in this form of fever — scarcely a case occurring in wliicli one or the
other of these states of this organ is not i)rescnt. Clihiroform I have found to be the most suc-
cessful remedy, in doses of ten to thirty drops in a little water, for allaying the irritability.
In inflammation of the organ, it has not been found useful, either in allaying the inflammation, or
in checking the vomiting, -which here, as elsewhere, so constantly attends this condition. Tiiis
remedy I have used as a preventive of the paroxysm of this form of fever, in doses of ten to thirty
drops, but have not seen the beneficial effects which I was led to expect from the accounts given of
it in medical journals. I used it only in some mild cases, and, not being pleased with its effects,,
tried it in no others. Piperin I have also used as an anti-periodic, in doses of from five to ten
grains, but it did not answer the purpose; in tlie few cases in which it was administered, it
produced no visible effect, and they were mild in their character. Arsenical preparations I have
seldom used. Of the remedies administered, sulph: quinite has been the only one in which reliance
could be placed as an anti-periodic. So far as I can jdace confidence in my experience in treat-
ing intermittent and remittent fevers in the interior of this country, little trust can be reposed
in small doses of this salt. In doses of five grains it may prevent the recurrence of a mild ])ar-
oxysm, but no certainty can be looked for; and^ as the tendency of these paroxysms seems to be
to increase in intensity with eacli successive fit, I have not deemed it prudent to allow an attack
of fever to run on, to have a second jjaroxysm to occur in a case presenting complications, or in
one severe, if it could be prevented. From ten to thirty-five grains are commonly given, from
an hour to an hour and a half previous to the expected paroxysm. For more than a year I have
used tartaric acid to aid in the solution of this salt, and have been well pleased with its action.
In the proportion of one part of the acid to two of the salt, a perfectly clear solution is speedily
obtained ; still possessing, however, the characteristic bitterness of the salt. Mercurials, in
some form or other, are required in most of the cases. This season, care is requisite in the ad-
ministration of calomel, as it seems to act with great readiness upon the salivary glands.
Remittent fevers have presented no unusual characters, and have thus far yielded to tlie
treatment required for intermittents, modified and adapted to each case. And here I may add,
that although the treatment of diseases has been conducted upon the general plan that expe-
rience has found useful, yet each individual case has been treated in a manner considered suit-
able for itself. Relapses in both these forms of fever are continually occurring. This is but to
be expected, when men, upon leaving the hospital, undergo the same exposure, and are required
to attend to the same duties, as they were previous to the first attack.
The only case of dengue which occurred at this post, althougb a severe one, yielded readily
to large doses of sulph: quiniro, with tinct: opii. Dysenteries and diarrha^as have been of fre-
quent occurrence, yet possessed of no endemic or epidemic characters. One case of chronic
diarrhoea proved fatal. This one was doubtless induced by the long-continued use of spirituous
liquors. Upon examination after death, the colon, from the ilio-ca?cal valve to the rectum, was
found to be one mass of disorganization — greatly thickened, ulcerated, perforated, and almost
putrid. The only matter for surprise was, how the patient could have survived so long with
his intestines in such a disorganized condition ; the immediate cause of death being peritonitis,
induced by perforation of the bowels, with extravasation of a portion of its contents. In a case
of delirium tremens, very protracted and severe, opiates in large and frequently-repeated
doses, alone, and combined with stimulants, entirely failed to give relief; chloroform was
given in drachm doses, and produced the most happy effects; and so speedily, as not to leave
a doubt upon my mind of its being the agent. In anotlier case it failed. So long as the patient's
stomach seemed to bave a perception of it, and other remedies, he progressed gradually towards
recovery; but an imprudence in the use of stimulants, just as the case had taken a favorable
change, seemed to render the stomach and system insensible to any remedy, and the case ter-
minated unfavorably. Notwithstanding the failure of recovery in this case, chloroform in this
disease, I think, merits a favorable consideration.
Of other diseases, there has been'nothing, eitlier in symptoms or treatment, requiring any
particular notice.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA. 333
The diminution of cases of fever here, since the removal of the post from the low ground
upon tlie bank of the river, suggests the supposition that the cause thereof has acted with more
virulence at that place — has been of a more local character. So far as I am aware, and I have
been stationed at several posts in the interior, camps upon the banks of streams are more gene-
rally liable to fevers than elsewhere. The higher grounds at some distance from the streams
are not, however, entirely free, and sometimes (as at Fort Chokonikla, in 1850) were so infected
by these diseases as to render their abandonment necessary. The cause of these malarious
diseases can scarcely be said to be local in the interior of this portion of the State ; for although
in some places it acts with greater virulence than in others, yet so generally is it spread through-
out the country, that no place can be said to be free from its influence. The propriety of sta-
tioning troops upon the sea-coast again suggests itself, especially during the hot weather.
There are no inhabitants in the immediate vicinity of this post. Those that live in the
interior are afflicted witli intermittent and remittent fevers as the chief diseases ; intermittents
prevail principally. So common are they, that the expression "he has the fever" conveys at
once the idea of fever and ague. "Dirt-eaters" are said to be not uncommon. I have seen no
one in the act of gratifying this morbid propensity ; yet the sallow countenance, the tumid
abdomen,, and the impression vividly conveyed of premature senility, suggest at once malaria
and clay. The common remedy is said to be whisky or cider in which nails have been
steeped.
Indians not being permitted to trade at this post, I have not seen one since I have been
stationed here, and am therefore unable to give any account of the diseases which prevail
among them, or the remedies therefor.
The hospital of this station has one large room for the sick of all diseases. Its situation is
very ineligible, being nearly a mile from the post, upon the low ground near the river, upon
the outskirts of the old camp. Apart from the inconvenience, which is great, of having it at
such a distance from the post, it is more exposed tlian any other building to malarious influence.
Instead of being in the most healthy and otherwise eligible position, it is just the reverse.
The attendants are frei|uently attacked by malarious diseases — some quite severely ; and patients
in hospital, from injuries and diseases other than those of malarious origin, are attacked, and
that repeatedly.
The following is a list of trees, vines, &c., found in the vicinity of Fort Meade, Florida:
Trees. — Yellow pine, pitch pine, magnolia grandiflora, wild cherry, wild plum, sweet orange,
sour orange, sweet bay, hickory, black oak, swamp oak, cypress, palmetto (cabbage-tree), sweet
gum, hawthorn, persimmon, dogwood, maple.
Vines, d-c. — Tree moss, yellow jasmine, trumpet-creeper, wild grape, coral honeysuckle, pas-
sion-flower, blackberry, dewberry, dew-plant, poison-vine, whortleberry, jjrickly pear (cactus),
lily, violet, saw palmetto, fern.
The following is a list of animals, birds, reptiles, and insects found in the vicinity of Fort
Meade, Florida:
Animals. — Deer, panther, black bear, wild cat, black wolf, grey wolf, fox, opossum, otter,
skunk (pole cat), raccoon, rabbit, grey squirrel, fox squirrel, mole, mouse.
Birds. — Wild turkey, rice-bird, snipe, dove, turtle-dove, ducks (various kinds), white cur-
lew, Spanish curlew, sand-hill crane, blue crane, white crane^ paroquet^ mocking-bird, blue jay,
martin, ivory-bill woodpecker, common woodpecker, blue bird, sjiarrow, sparrow-hawk, fowl-
hawk, fish-hawk, quail, turkey-buzzard (two kinds), crow, lark, robin, red bird, wliip-poor-
will, owl (two kinds), night-hawk, yellow bird, yellow-hammer, tomtit, swallow, blackbird.
Insects. — Tarantula, scorpion, centipede, mosquito, flea, gad-fly, common fly, sand-fly, gnats,
roaches, crickets, lioney-bee, humble-bee, butterfly (several varieties), wasp, locust.
Reptiles, &c. — Rattlesnake, ground rattlesnake, water-moccasin, land-moccasin, copperhead,
king-snake, black viper, black snake, whip-snake, gopher-snake, alligator, lizard (several kinds),
chameleon, gopher, terrapin, soft-shell turtle, tree-frog, bull-frog, frog.
334
KEPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
FORT MYERS,
Is near Charlotte's Harbor, on the left hank of the Caloosahatchee river, ahout nineteen miles
from its entrance into the Gulf of Mexico. No report of its topography can he found. The
position is extremely insalubrious ; fevers and dysenteries being more rife here than at any
other station in Florida. Tiiis post would long since have been abandoned, had not special
military considerations demanded its maintenance.
DISEASES.
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Uuarters.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
Ratio per 1,000 OF mean strength.
Treated.
Died.
First Quarter .
2,299
2,505
2,014
2,379
■ 2,019
2,728
2,830
2,685
6
15
27
22
878
1,089
1,405
1,128
2.6
6.9
13.9
9.2
Aunuiil ratio
2,299
10,262
70
4,463
30 4
The relative ^Jroportion of cases of sickness to the number of troops in this region was 4.46
to 1, and the corresponding ratio of deaths 1 to 32.84, or 3.04 per cent. The ratio of deaths to
the number of troops was 1 to 14G.G0, or 0.68 per cent.
FEVERS.
Quarters ...
Strengtli
Diseases.
Febris congesti va
Febris contiuua communis
Febris intermittens quotidiana,
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana ..
Febris remittens
Febris typhus
•I'ebris typlius icterodes
Total
2,299
Cases. Deaths.
2,505
Cases. Deaths.
2,014
Cases. Deaths.
2,379
2,299
Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths.
<=> . .
a. 0}
o a
2 •-
•s o
1
287
582
18
48
3
939
5
777
346
2
110
3
2
848
322
5
231
6
30
1
12
1
4
849
455
41
100
2
12
1
15
2761
1705
66
489
14
44
1
1
2
3
21
in 1
lin 15
Oin 2761
lin 1705
Oin 66
1 in 245
lin 5
lin 2
0.4
6.5
1200
742
28.7
212
6
19
1245
1447
13
1464
13 1 5095
28
lin 182 2216
As will be seen by the consolidated abstract and the foregoing table, fevers occupy the most
important position among the diseases of this region. It is proposed, therefore, to give extracts
from the remarks in regard to this class of diseases appended to the quarterly reports of sick
and wounded.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA. 335
Yellow fever is reported twice at Fort Brooke — once in September 1849, and again in 1853 —
and once at Barrancas Barracks, in 1853. In 1849, only three cases occurred, all proving
fatal. Assistant Surgeon Laub shows conclusively that the disease was contracted by the
three men at New Orleans. They sickened on the passage from that city to Fort Brooke. In
the summer of 1853, fifteen cases occurred at that post, of which nine died. No history of the
disease has been given. The epidemic of that year, as it affected the troops at Barrancas Bar-
racks, is described in the report of Assistant Surgeon Hammond, in connexion with the topo-
graphy of that post. (Vide p. 325.) In this connexion, the following remarks of Assistant
Surgeon E. H. Abadie, respecting a fever which prevailed at Barrancas Barracks in the summer
of 1846 , are of interest :
" The health of the command at Fort Pickens and this place has been good during the quar-
ter, in comparison with that of the camp followers and their families left behind by the compa-
nies of this regiment in Mexico, as also that of the officers' families living here, but one of
which has escaped an attack of the prevailing disease — a pernicious intermittent and remittent
fever. This disease commenced with us about the beginning of August, attacking with little
apparent violence, attended from the first with great tendency to congestion of the different im-
portant organs, more generally the liver, alimentary canal, and brain. The individual attacked
appeared as if poisoned ; the blood being changed in its character, dissolved and unnatural in
appearance when drawn, resembling the dregs of claret in water, coagulating imperfectly.
Stimulation had to be used from the commencement; and when depletion had to be employed,
it was practised by cups, from such parts as were the most threatened with disorganization.
The treatment pursued had to be purely eclectic, meeting the symptoms as they appeared.
Powerful counter-irritation to the surface by means of hot spt: terebinth frictions, followed by
the application of sinapisms, so as almost to cover the whole body with them, were indispensa-
ble, and were attended with signal benefit. The sheet-anchor of the treatment being large
doses of quinine and calomel to re-establish the secretory functions, which were entirely arrested
from the beginning of the attack. The dejections from the stomach, vomiting being usually
present, consisted of a colorless, glairy fluid in some cases ; in others, dirty green or brown floc-
culi were suspended in it. The discharges from the bowels j^resented somewhat the same ap-
pearance, being generally watery, of a dirty black color, the more consistent portion of the stool
being very fetid, falling to the bottom of the vessel in a pulverulent form. During the fever
the liquor ammon: acetat: with mist: camph: and spt: nitr: dulc: was well borne and did much
good. Before the termination of the paroxysm, which was usually by the most profuse cold
sweats with very frequent and almost imperceptible pulses, quinine in ten-grain doses was given
with great benefit; the pulse becoming fuller and less frequent, the sweat more natural. The
doses were repeated in intervals of from 3 to 5 hours, arresting the paroxysm if the calomel,
which had been continued in repeated doses at the same time, had succeeded in restoring the
su.spended secretions, which was manifested by the appearance of copious bilious stools, or large
dejections of a dark, tarry nature. The type of the fever was at first intermittent, generally a
double tertian, the first paroxysm only being attended with slight rigors ; the occurrence of the
paroxysm being very irregular, mostly at night; the intermissions very short, there being none
perceptible, in some cases, for the first three days of the attack. In September the fever assumed
the remittent type; the septic effects of the miasmata being more striking, the congestion less
susceptible of relief. In children under 5 years, in three cases out of five, the disease was ushered
in by apoplexy or effusion on the brain, one side of the body being completely paralyzed, whilst
the other was thrown into spasmodic contractions.
"Fifty-six cases of disease, including a few relapses, have been treated, occurring in the fami-
lies of the oflicers and soldiers entitled to medical attendance. I would call the attention of the
department to the importance of removing the evident cause of the sickness at this place, when
barracks are being built by the government for a regiment. My predecessor has indicated the
cause, and suggested the removal of it, by draining the fresh-water ponds that are found at the
foot of the sand-hill upon which the cantonment is built. These ponds are supplied by the fil-
336
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
tering of the rains that fall, and probably, also, by springs in the sand-bank. The grading of
the ground from the base of tlie hill to the sea-beach would prevent the accumulation ; or a
ditch or canal might be cut, at little expense, to conduct the water to the sea, so as to convert
the stagnant pools into running water."
The original recDrds show that the summer of 1850 was the most sickly one for the troops at
Fort Meade ; in other seasons, that post has been comparatively healthy. In the months of
July, August, and September, of that year, out of a command averaging 188 persons, there
were 171 cases of intermittent and 65 of remittent fever reported. For explanation of this fact,
reference is made to the preceding rejiort of Assistant Surgeon Letherman.
Fort Myers, the most southern point on the Gulf coast occui^ied by troops, has proved the
most sickly. The following remarks from the quarterly report of Assistant Surgeon W. J.
Sloan, for the 3d quarter, 1851, shows the prevalence of fevers at this post :
" The continued and increasing sickness at this post during the quarter has been most dis-
couraging, and has had a melancholy influence upon every one. Intermittent fever has pre-
vailed to an extraordinary extent, ever varying in its complications, and producing every species
of gastric, hepatic, and cerebral disturbance. It is almost wholly of the quotidian type, and
most obstinate in its character. The whole command has suffered, and there is not a healthy-
looking man present, nor one capable of making a good day's march. These cases are most
varied in their onset. Some are attacked with the most violent rigors ; others escape this stage.
Some are complicated, with great cerebral disturbance ; others with congestion of the liver and
spleen, and become jaundiced in a few hours. Some, again, are seized with violent spasmodic
contractions of the muscles of the inferior extremities, or symptoms of cholera morbus, which
disappear on the accession of the fever. There have been a few cases of congestive intermittent
with difficult reaction, and a few exhibiting a typhoid tendency. The quinine used in treat-
ment appears to be of inferior quality and adulterated.
"The exciting causes of fever have been abundant. The constant, drenching rains, and tlie
rays of a scorching sun, have had their full effect upon men exposed to their influence while
building quarters for their own protection and that of public property. The provisions issued
to the troops have also been of bad quality— at least since I have been here. The flour has been
sour or musty, and filled with insects ; the pork has been scarcely fit for issue ; the rice is
destroyed by weevil, &c.; and vegetables have failed almost entirely, from the impossibility of
gardening during the rainy season. The supply of fresh beef is at present exhausted; but this
is a temporary misfortune, and will soon be remedied. I sincerely hope to be able to report an
improved state of health at the expiration of the next quarter."
In order to present a more definite idea of the extent to which this command suffered from
fevers, the following statistics have been collated from the original reports :
Tahle showing the sickness and mortality from fevers at Fort Myers, Florida.
Quarters.
Mean strength. Cases treated.
1
Deaths.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Cases treated, i Deaths.
1851.
156
134
116
110
98
141
139
96
198
240
234
136
204
250
1852.
Fourth quarter
1853.
First quarter
Second quarter
Third quarter
Total
137
134
125
110
368
341
234
126
Second quarter
Third quarter
Fourth quarter
1852.
1,406
1
2,427 '
Eatio per quarter. .
Second quarter
Third quarter
128
221
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA
337
Ciuarters.
1853.
Fourth quarter
1S51.
First quarter
Second quarter
Third quarter
Fourth quarter -
Total
Uatio per quarter
Mean slrengtli. Cases treated. ! Dcatlis.
101
71
135
137
138
39
34
37
66
40
216
lie
43
It is important to remark, that dxiring the years 1851, 1852, and for the first three quarters
of 1853, the command at Fort Myers consisted of companies of the 1st regiment of artillery,
which had previously been broken down by disease at Fort Meade. In the fourth quarter of
1853, they were relieved by companies of the 2d artillery from the north. For the first
command, it will be observed that the ratio of this class of diseases to the number of men was
1.72 to 1 per quarter, or 6.90 to 1 per annum ; so that each person was sick with fever about
seven times in a year. For the second command, the very great diminution in the number of
cases cannot fail to be observed. In this, the ratio per quarter falls to 0.37 to 1, or 1.48 to 1
per annum.
So far as the statistics of this post afibrd the means of judging, the evidence is strongly in
favor of frequently changing troops from sickly to healthy stations. Indeed, the mass of evi-
dence tends to the conclusion, that troops from the north resist in a very great degree the active
causes of intermittent and remittent fevers during their first summer at the south, and that
soldiers long continued at unhealthy stations become more sickly and unfit for duty each suc-
ceeding year.
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED ■WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters. .
Strength .
2,299
Cases. Deaths.
Cholera Asiatica
Diarrhoea 222
Dysenteria acuta 6i
Dysenteria chronica 3
Enteritis 1
Hepatitis acuta 2
Hepatitis chronica 2
Ohstipatio 42
All other diseases of this
system 61
Total .
397
2,505 i 2,014
Cases. Deatlts. Cases. Deaths
1
305
90
11
1
4
3
91
S4
590
12
224
59
7
5
3
77
74
449
2,379
Cases. Deaths
252
122
5
1
3
1
71
52
507
2,299
Cases. Deaths.
1
1003
335
26
8
12
6
281
271
1943
26
1 in 1
1 in 125
1 in
1 in
1 in
in
in
56
4.3
3
12
6
in 281
1 in 135
1 in
430
145
11.3
3.4
5.2
2.6
122
117
845
S. 96-
-43
338
EEPOET ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY — FLORIDA.
It will be noticed that the proportion of cases of dysentery above reported is relatively large.
Assistant Surgeon Guild, in a recent report from Barrancas Barracks, makes the following
remarks in relation to that disease :
"The treatment which I have pursued in acute dysentery has been invariably to premise
with minute doses of sulphate of magnesia and ipecac, administered at intervals of six hours in
some simple aromatic water — a plan of treatment first adopted, I believe, by Heberden. Tlio
action of this remedy is that of a local dei)letive to the inflamed intestinal surface, and, under
its influence, the acute symptoms ordinarily abate in the course of forty-eight hours ; after which,
the case only requires abstemious diet, with opiates or astringents, to insure a speedy and per-
manent recovery. This plan of treatment of acute dysentery I have pursued exclusively for
several years, and not a single uncomplicated case of the disease has terminated fatally, or in a
chronic form. Being satisfied of its efficiency, I have deemed it not improper to mention it
thus briefly in my report."
DISEASES OF THE RESPHIATORY SYSTEM.
Quarters
FIRST.
SECOND.
TUIKD.
FOUUTH.
TEAE.
o
ta
5
o
c
c
c
cr 1,000
gth.
Strength
2,299
2,505
2,014
2
379
2,299
Diseases.
Cases. iDeatlis.
Cases. Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
B S
■So
a
Bronchitis acuta et chronica..
Catarrh lis
Phthisis puLmonalis
Pleuritis
10
46
3
4
3
16
3
51 '
3 j 1
3
1
10
3
59
7
3
2
4
1
16
51
3
4
5
1
32
207
IC
17
10
35
e
3
Oin 32
in 207
1 in 5
Oin 17
in 10
Oin 35
14
90
6.9
7.3
Pneumonia
All other diseases of this
system . ----- -- ---
4.3
15. 2
Total
82
71
1
78
1
86
1
317
3
1 in 106
137
Rheumatlsmus _ -.-- .--
54
59 !
50
49
212
Oin 212
Although the reports of sick in this region are without remarks relative to diseases of the
respiratory system, the high ratio of cases of phthisis pulmonalis deserves special notice. An
examination of the statistics of that disease for the several regions, in connexion with the con-
solidated temperature and rain tables, will serve to show, in a marked degree, the efi"ect of
long-continued high temperature^ combined with excessive moisture (high dew-point), in the
production or development of pulmonary consumption.
ABSTRACTS
PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
OCCUKRING AMONG THE TROOPS
IN FLORIDA.
340
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRINO
FIRST QUARTER.
AGGREGATE
STRENOTB.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean strength
51.
351.
1S8.
129.
134.
58.
851.
SPECIFIC DISEASES. Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
[ 1 1
Died. Cases. 1 Died. Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total Total
cases. 1 died.
3
2
5
20
21
6
7
s
7
5
11
15
1
3
1
Fevers J
Fubris inieruiittens quartana'
i
■ 1
5
1
'
1
2
i_
1
::::" ....:. l:::::i
1
1
'
i i
6
44
27
4
9
5
16
6
3
2
1
85
37
4
1
1
1
Diseases of the organs
connected with tlie di-
gestive system.
1
1
!
1
1
I
22
8
2
1
2
2
......
4
2
2
7
5
33
15
5
21
1
3
3
1
9
1
1
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
Catarrhus
2
2
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
2
1 1
1
1
1 1
1 '
2
2
1
1
1
Diseases of the brain and
1
1
1
2
2
5
nervous system.
1
1
1
2
3
i
Diseases of the urmarj-
and genital organs.
2
1
2
4
6
Sy(>liilis consecutiva
2
4
1
1
1
Diseases of the serous e
and cxhalfiit vessels. I
Diseases of the fibrous &.
1
1
muscular structures.
6
3
3
8
1
21
f
Abscesses and ulcers.... ^
.
Phlegmon et abscessus
3
7
3
10
1
2
5
10
2
7
1
37
8
3
17
2
1
1
3
2
5
1
2
1
Wounds and injuries
2
12
2
2
2
1
1
2
1
2
1
1
7
17
4
7
2
5
4
2
2
1
1
4
1
1
;
1
2
1
2
2 i
1
Miscellaneoua J
1
1
1
22
3
X
1
1 1
2
1
41
...
1
3
11
3
1 1
26
192
47
1
95
34
479
1
1
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FDORIDA.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS ON THE ATLANTIC COAST OF FLORIDA.
341
SECOND QUARTER.
CLASSES OF DIS-
1849.
1850.
1851.
I
1852.
1853.
1854.
AGGREGATE
STRENGTH.
EASES.
Mean STRENGTH
104.
950.
128.
154.
109.
58.
835.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
1
Cases. Died.
Cases
1 1 '
Died. Cases.' Died. Cases. Died
: ■ 1
Total Total
cases, died.
Febris continua communis .
2
1
1
1
17
6
8
32
4
5
in
1
2
61
Febris intermittens tertiana.
' Febris intermittens quartana
1
25
2
11
Fevers
2
1
6
4
9
2
9 2
Eruptive fevers
2
1
1
I
4
1
1
' 1
i !
1 '
:
1
t i
1
15
7
51
8
1
21
26
3
9
3
1
4
1
126
24
3
1
2
1
1
1
Dysenleria chronica
3
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
1
gestive system.
■i
5
6
7
5
93
i
AH oiher diseases..
! Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
: Catarrhus
3
15
2
8
]
1
33
::;:::i.:..::
1
1
4
1
A
1 1
1
15
1
t
Diseases of the respira-.
1
1
o
tory system.
i
1
1
1
1
3
3
r
1
1
1
1
1 •
7
I
4
6
2
Epilepsia
1
1
nervous system.
1 '
1
1
3
2
. ..
1
1
Diseases of the urinary',
and genital organs.
Diseases ot'the serous and |
exhalent vessels. *
Diseases of the fibrous &.
muscular structures.
Abscesses and ulcers '
3
I I' "1....
i 1 1
1
1
1
2
1
1
2 1
i^yphtlis conseculiva
.... 1
2
1
1
1
6 i::::::
1
1 :::;::
3
i:"":
1
1
...................
1
1 1..
\
1 1
Rheuraatismus
4
4
! 1 i 1 7 1 ! 5 ' ! 1 ! 1 22 '
1 \ 1 '
Plilcgmon et abscessus
Ulcus.
1
3
2
11
2
1
1
3
18
1
' 7
6 1
1 1
1
52
7
1 i
3
1
27
6
8
1
4
3 3
'"Dz:c::.
Wounds and iiyurit-s.,.. .
2
7
i 2
j 4
1
1
3
1
2
] 1
5 '
Vuhms incisum
1
15
1
2
1
' 1
1
5
:::::: ■
1
1
2
3
1
4
3
1
S j
Ebrietas
2
2
1
3
1
9
1
5
Miscellaneous
1
1 1
2
1
3
7
2
1 '
3
1 1
1
5
10 1
16
11
s
45
Total
65
162
• 93 1 2
159
fi2
1
61
S
602
5
342
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF TTIE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRINa
YbaBb
THIRD QUAKTER.
CLASSES OF DIS-
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852. 1853.
1854.
STRKNOTB.
EASES.
Mean strength
120.
400. 115. i 159. 61.
1
45.
900.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died. Cases.' Died. Cases.
Died. Cases
Died.
Cases
' Died.
Total Total
caseM. died.
Febris continua communis..
Febris inter, quotidiana
Febris intermittens terliana.
1
1
2
2
107
8
1
3
10
6
158
SO
1
56
1
.in
32
1
1
2
47
1
2
1 4
1
24
9
24
1
g
1
Variola
r
18
9
106
21
1
1
ao
2
19
1
4
6
167
39
1
1
Diseases of ihe organs
connected Willi thedi--!
1
gestive Bvstein.
1
1
2
33
22
16
8
11
8
6
1
9
2
1
Bronchitis, acuta ct chronica
6
1
1
1
4
i 8
1
18
1
3
Diseases of the respira-
1
Plcurilis
1
1
11
1
4
2
17
2
1
1
2
2
Diseases of the brain and
Epilnpsia
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
r
Gonorrhoea
Diseases of ilu; urinary
Syphilis priinitiva
1
[
1
4
3
and genital organs.
Syphilis consecutiva
1
3
i
All other diseases
1
1
..■.■'1 ■■
and cxhalent vessels, t
All other diseases
1
1
1
1
Diseases of the fibrous &
1
muscular structures.
4
9
2
1
21
Abscesses and ulcers
Fistula
Plilegmon et absccssus
nicua
9
4
61
8
1
10
2
1
1
4
25
6
1
6
2
117
17
2
1
an
1
1
6
14
4
A mbustio
Concussio cerebri
2
19
3
1
1
1
Fractura
T.nxatio
1
4
2
1
Wounds and injuries ■
Sub-luxatio
1
6
1
1
5
Vuliius ineisum
1
1
Vulnus laccralum
1
Vulnus punctum
Debilitns
2
1
1
2
6
4
1
3
n
39
4
3
1
Fia,-morrhois
1
I
::'i
Miscellaneous ■
Hernia
Morbi cutis
1
1
4
............
1
1
2
S
Morbi oculi
■■■;■■;:::::
4
8
All other diseases
3 1 11 1
10
2
Total
66
' ORR
3
108
152
38
57
"
887
12
1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POST'S ON THE ATLANTIC COAST OF FLORIDA.
343
FOURTH QUARTER.
1849. , 1850. 1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENGTH.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean strenotb
190. 1 205. 110. 147. ' 65.
37.
754.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.' Died. 'Cases. Died- Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
Febris continua communis .
j Febris inter, quotidiana
j Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana
2
8
13
2
3
I
4
15 ;
'.'. . .
12 1
39
17
1
■.:::::::::::
32 1...,
i
5
!
1
1
4
1
12 '
]
1
1
1 !
1
Eruptive fevers •
1
1
14 ' 62
11
16 4
1
108
18
3
9 1... 1 3 1
5
1
Dysenteria chronica
.2
1
;
Diseases of the organs
1
1
1
connected with the di-'
1 1
1
gestive system.
1
1
S
3
5
2
i i
"VC".
1
14
14
5
I
1
1
3
1
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
Catarrhus
6
10
t *
4 '
i
2
36
1
Diseases of the respira- ,
1
1
tory system.
t
1
;::::: ::::.
1 •
9
2
11
1
1 '
Diseases of the brain and.
nervous system.
r
1 1
1
s
1
1
1
1
2
2
t
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs. |
4
4
1
6
1
1
1
1
L
Diseases of the serous r
4
1
1
.. .
Diseases of tlie fibrous St '
muscular scniciures. [
...*..
3
4
3
S
3
1
16
Fistula
1
Abscesses and ulcers
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
S
3
13
6
1
3
8
3
1
31
9
f
Ambustio
1
1
a
1
6
2
10
Fractiu"a
3
1
3
i
1
Wounds and injuries
Sub-luxatio
,
3
•T
6 1 ! S
1
..
1
12
1 Vulnu^l laccratuni
1
\ 1
1
3
Vulnus sclopeticum | 1
j Debilitas 1
1 :
f
1
1
1
2
4
3
3
4
36
Ebriclas
1
1
9
I
MidcellanenuB ■
3
I
I
1
1
1
.■>
a
u
i ...
' 18
€>
Total
\
1
1
113
1 ' 168 1 1
1
44
' 77 1 1 1 28
[ , 1
10
440
3
344
REPORT ON TUB SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTIiACT OF THK PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
FIKST QUARTER.
AGQREnATE
STBENOTU.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean strenotii
412.
837.
266.
^8.
331.
225.
2,S99.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total Total
died, cases.
Febris continua rommunis. .
1
23
23
3
5
1
287
582
18
48
3
34
113
1
52
58
1
11
144
8
9
3
34
371
4
9
Fevers
Febris intermiltens tertiana.
Febris interniittentf quartana
10
1
5
1
IS
3
Eruptive levers
( Rubeola.-
Variola
f
25
3
124
35
1
18
11
2
1
18
7
1
21
16
1
222
64
3
1
2
2
42
61
10
46
3
2
Diseases of the organs
Enteritis
••fjnnecttfd with Uie di-
1
1
gestive system.
Hi'palii is chronica
1
4
8
1
9
1
13
14
18
2
14
1
5
2
2
1
3
8
3
2
10
11
4
10
4
6
1
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
2
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
Phthisis pulmonalis
5
2
3
1
1
2
6
1
1
2
•
1
1
1
1
1
3
All other diseases
2
2
2
1
4
16 1
Diseases ot'tln,- brain and
nervous system.
3
1
1
4
3
4
16 ' 1
Epilepsia
5
2
4
19
All otlier diseases
2
2
7
4
Diseases ot ihe urinary
and genital organs.
1
Syphilis consecutiva
All other diseases
5
1
.
2
1
1
3
1
1
12
5
o
Diseases of tlie serous/
and exhalent vessels. (
1
1
2
4
Pernio
Diseases ot ttie fibrous &
musculiir structures.
IS
23
2
5
1
5
4
5
I
1
54
4
no
26
4
1
2
79
15
3
22
51
5
7
3
11
19
6
4
i Fistula
Abscesses and uleers
1
Phlegmon et absecssus
Ulcus
IG
8
47
6
2
11
14
5
17
6
1
Ambustio
...
1
Concussio cerebri
1
31
1
a
3
27
1
5
9 1
10 I
1 j
5
14
3
IS
1
Fractura
VVonnds and injuries.... J
Luxutio
1
Sub-Iuxatio
■■
1
10
2
4
3
3
15
2
3
1
1
8
Vulnus punetuni
1
2
1
5
8
Vulnus sclopeticuin
1
1
2
4
1
3
1
Ebrietas
3
3
3
2
1
HTmorrhois
1
2
I
7
1
.Morbi cutis
t
3
4
11
2
86
1
2
1
29
1
2
Scorbutus
1
=4
All other diseases
•2
8
11
Total
160 tiHI o
235
2
293
1
597
133
1
2,019
6
t
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS ON THE GULF COAST OF FLORIDA.
345
\
1
Years ,
SECOND QUARTER.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852. j 1853.
1854.
ST&CNOTH.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean strength '
300.
896. 276. 345-1 331.
357.
2,505.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.' Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died. J«^' T»>al
Febris continua communis..
1
4
153
160
s
777
346
2
110
3
#
154
67
2
9
200
50
257
13
Febris intermittens teriiana.
Febris intermittens quartana
9
19
41 1
7
44
1
41
1
6
1
3
1
1
2
2
Eruptive fevers I
::::::::::::
' I
1
1
.::::::::::::::::::::;■: ::::■■
:::
1
1
15
1 1 1
48 ; 1 174 26 28 '
14
30.5 1
1
1
1 1 26 1 a 15 1 la
8 28 90 4
Dj'senteria chronica
1 ; 2 1 3
1 1 6 11 4
Diseases of the organs
connected witli the di-
1
I
1
1
1 1
4
3
^
......!::::...::.::
■
gestive system.
2 1
I
Obslipatio
3 1
10
31
27
1
5 23
1 19 U
* , , ^
10 7
91
84
3
SI
3
1
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
, Caiarrhus
2
1
<!1
6
19
1
2
4
1
1
2
1
Diseases of the respira- 1
tory system.
' PlcuritU
3
1
1
3
3
2
7
1 1
4
1 1
4
1
s
10 ...
1
2
3
19
10
5
4
5
11
1
i 4
Diseases of tbe brain and
1
2
2
1
nervous system.
1 Neuralgia
1
2
2
.... 1
j
1
... :! ;
1
1
1
1
f
*
4 ...::! a
1
"*
1
3
1
i :......!
3
1
1
4
and genital organs.
Syphilis consecutiva
1
2
3
2
2 !
11
Diseases of the serous and e
_ ' 1 .___ i ..
"
1
1 ....
Diseases of the fibrous & 1
] i i::::,.::::::" ::;::
muscular structures, i
7
17 \ 6 8 1 6 15
59
1
Abscesses and ulcers ,,., \
! Phlegmon et abscessus
1 Ulcus
25
1
1
1
8
2
27 4 16 11 53
10 1 2 i:i .T
136
29
Ainbusito
3
1
1 a 2
9
1 -
3
9 la 8 12
79
Fractura
5
Wounds and injuries.....
1
1
2
6
1
1
3
:
5
38
6
la
1
.._.__! 3
,8 i
4 1 1 19
83 1..::.:
3
1
1
1
1
9
5 1 .
2
1
3
3
9
' Vulnus sclopcticum
1 Debilitas
2 ..
10
17
2
6
75
1
6
6
4
1
9
3
2
39
' 1
2
13 . .
1
2
1
6
5
1
4 :
Miscellaneous ■
d
3 1
2 :
5
3
9
16 i::::
Morbi oculi
16
2
43
4
4 1
sy
8
All other diseases
Total
97
j so
i «'
25 !
171
170
3 1904 1 9
393
3
518
i-
336
1 ja,7a8
15
1
K nr.
J J
346
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRINa
Tears
THIRD aUAKTER.
!
1 1
1849. \ 1850. , 1851. 1852.
ims.
185i.
STRENOTU.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
1 !
Mean strenotu
318. 533.
S57. 356.
303.
245.
2,014.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases. Died. Cases.l Died. CasesJ Died. Cases. Died. Cases Died. Cases Died ''"***'*' T"'?'
cases, died.
4 ! ■
I......i
! Febris inter, quoiidiana ....
Febris intermittens terliana.
Febris iiiiennittens quartana
Febris rcmiltens
18
Iti
210
194
230
« ':
2 ..
254
37
!
121
43
9
10
1
15 h....
58 ....
848
3S«!
5
231
6
30
1
12
' 119
21 fin ...
9 '
1
1
1
Febris typlius icterodes
3
3
27
9
12
1
Eruptive fevers ■
1 Rubeola
I Cliolera Asiatica
53
3
2
66
25
3
2
2
2
1 1
22
8
1
1 18 1
12 '
39 1
5
26 ....
Q0.1
4
Dysenteria acuta
6 1 1 S9
Dysenteria clironica
1
7
3 1
2
connected with the di-
Ilep.ititls acuta
9
1 3
gestive system.
Hepatitis chronica i
1
4
9
17
17
1
24
1
1 S
12 1
12 ..
13
9
1
3
3
77
74
3
59
7
3
2
4
96
19
3
10
in
16
1 Bronchitis, acuta el chronica
1
29
5
3
1
1
1
6
1
.T 1
....
2
Diseases of the respira-
) Phthisis pulmonalis
) Pleurilis
1 I
I
» !
1
1
2
4
1
tory system.
1
All other diseases
: i
!
1
Diseases of the brain and
12
3
1
1
9
1
1
1
1 ' 3
3
Epilepsia
2
4
1
2
3
3
1
2
1
2 '
All other diseases
5 1
1
Gonorrhcea ,
12
1
4
1 ': i 90
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
1
Diseases of the serous t
and eshalent vessels. \
Diseases of the fibrous &
muscular structures.
1
Abscesses and ulcf rs .... \
1
2
Syphilis primitiva
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
1
1
3
1
5
4
10
9
5
All other diseases
■
1
2
1
Pernio
Podagra
Uhcuniatismus
3
7
6
5
11
18
SO
Fistula
Phlegmon et absccssus
Ulcus
47
3
1
44
13
3
11
6
1
24
S
1
14
1
2
67
4
1
207
32
9
Aniputatio
Coneussio cerebri
14
8
1
1
»
3
4
1
38
3
2
17
48
4
11
1
55
33
7
5
43
4
1
181
1
V\'uuiids and inj uries . . . . '
j Punitio
2
9
7
4
1
5
6
"
~
8
1
1 1
.T 1
Vulnus punctum
'
Vulnus sclopcticuni
1
4
1
1
'
.,
11 4
a 1 1 1 7
11
7
1
1
19
1
5
1
5
Ilarmorrhois
2
.. i o
-
1
3
Morbi cutis
S
.. .. 1
1
2
1
!
' Scorbutus
1
39
.........
All other diseases
4S IJ
43 ' 26
11
Total i
286 ' '1 ^>f^
8 a'^ ' -T s7« 1 -"ifi-T in
334
1
M
2,830
27
i
AMONG THE TROOPS IN FLORIDA.
347
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS ON THE GULF COAST OF FLORIDA.
FOURTH QUARTER.
AGGREOATS
STREXOTH.
1849. 1850. j 1851. 1852.
1853.
1854.
CLASSES OF DfS-
EASES.
Mean strength
76.-?.
4*2.
198.
360.
242. 324. 1 2,379.
1
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases. Died. J-'I-'
1
2
1
1
4 1
Fevera
Febris inter, quotidiana ....
Febris intermittens tertlana.
Febris intermitten!< quartana
69
149
34
10
1
1
1
147
57
257
36
411
61
i =»
33
8
29
849 !
455
41
I 8
18 3
4
j
100
2
12
2
•2
Febris typhus
1
,
12
9
9
1
Eruptive fevers ?
1
Diarrhsa
Dysenteria acuta
Dysenleria chronica
125
45
2
31
18
3
1
SB
8
1
23
12
17
17
38
252
IS
5
3
1
71
52
16
51
3
4
3
12
14
4
5
I
1
Diseases of the organs
i '"
1
connected with the di-"*
3
gestive system.
Hepatitis chronica
Obsttpatio
1
10
3
6
2
4
1
1
2
10
lo
10
5
11
9
23
12
3
19
10
4
1
Bronchitis acuta ei chronica
3
3
o
3
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
Phthisis pulmonalis
Pleuritis
1
1
1
3
3
1
2
-T
Cephalalgia
8
1
2
1
i....
2
4
6
1
1
Diseai^es of the brain and
Epilepsia
1
3
nervous system.
1
3
2
All other diseases
11
1
1
2
3
2 ]
2
18
Diseases of the urinarj-
4
1
3
3
1
6
and genital organs.
Syphilis consecutiva
4
■
1
1
1 1
3 1
and exhalent vessels. ■
All other diseases
1
1
1
3
Diseases of the fibrous & ^
muscular structures.
Abscesses and ulcers .... ^
'
Rhcumatismus
lo
6
4
5
6
13
' 1
18
1
49
1
95
j Phlegmon et abscessiis
39
8
1
5
1
12
13
2
6
3
2
.:::•
1 Amputatio
1 .... 1 1 1-
Contusio
Fraclura
Luxatio
8
I
12
10
.... 1
13
1
11
55 1
o
3
1
4
4
Wounds and injuries....
Punitio
1
6
U
3
1
1
4
1
9
9
22
43
3
1
73
SO
9
3
2
5
5
R
- 1
3 . '^
1
Vulnus sclopcticuin
•T
1
3
4
2
Ebrietas
6 -1
Ho^morrhois
1
2
1
J
4
1
MiwcUaneous
1
1 1
1 23 27
28
1.1 1=;
14 120
1
Total
625 .1 -'its rt ; 4.ig .■) 1 (ua 9 ' 9ai
Zi
1
TEXAS.
SOUTHERN FRONTIER.
The military stations on the southern frontier of Texas are located on the north bank of the
Rio Grande, where that stream forms the boundary between the United States and Mexico, with
the exception of two posts — Forts Merrill and Ewell — on the Nueces river ; and one at Cori^us
Christi, at the head of Corpus Christi bay. The posts on the Rio Grande are Fort Brown,
Ringgold Barracks, Fort Mcintosh, and Fort Duncan.
CORPUS CHRISTI.
The coast of Texas (says Assistant Surgeon J. B. Brown) is generally very low ; but at this point
it is quite bold, rising into a range of bluffs from thirty to sixty feet in height. The town of Cor-
pus Christi is built upon a level plateau, reclaimed from the sea, and but a few feet above its
level. This plateau extends back from the water's edge about 600 yards, where it terminates in
a "bluff." It is composed almost entirely of shell detritus. The wells, which are sunk in the
shell, are always more or less brackish, and the water causes derangement of the bowels in
those unaccustomed to its use. For drinking and culinary purposes, rain-water is generally ob-
tained from artificial reservoirs or cisterns ; but, in times of extreme drought, the well-water is
necessarily used. With this exception, the locality is a healthy one.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT EWELL.
By Assistant Surgeon J. Frazier Head : 1854.
Fort Ewell is situated on the west bank of the Nueces, at the point where this river is
crossed by the road from San Antonio to Laredo, in lat. about 28° 12' N., and long. 22° 3'
W. (from Washington); a spot which, long before its occupation by troops, had enjoyed the
evil notoriety of being one of the most insalubrious in Texas.
At this place the river makes a turn, partly surrounding an elevated portion of land, which
slopes from a height of Rome twenty-five feet above the ordinary level of the stream to its
swampy margin. The soil is argillaceous, baked to almost stony hardness during the greater
part of the year, but softened by the .spring rains into a tenacious clay. It appears incapable
of cultivation. Its vegetation is almost wholly confined to diflerent varieties of cactus and aca-
cia. A few elms are found in the swamp by the bank of the river.
The water of the Nueces is good, and, though during freshets it is often highly charged with
organic matter, appears to be perfectly wholesome.
The meteorological records left at the jiost are not sutScient to furnish data for any satisfactory
account of the climate.
Nearly surrounding the post, on both sides of the river, and in high water, allowing egress
only by the road leading to Eagle Pass, is an extensive swamp, partially overflowed at every
rise of the Nueces, and, at times, converted into a lake of many thou.sand acres. From this
marsh the prevailing winds of summer sweep directly upon the site of Fort Ewell.
It is proper to state, that no officer of t'le medical department is believed to have been con-
sulted as to the location of the post at a point so manifestly unfavorable to health.
350 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
The site was first occupied by troops on the 13th of May, 1852. It being intended to erect
permanent buiklings on the more elevated portion of the ground, the troops were forbidden, by
orders from department headquarters, to encamp upon it, and were obliged to pitch their tents on
the low land near tlie bank ol' the river, from wliich they were more than once driven by freshets,
to return to it on the subsidence of the Avaters. Building-tools were ordered to be furnished in
abundance ; but the issue of lumber was so strictly curtailed, that for many months there was
not enough at the post to make a coifin ; and a commissioned officer, who had served gallantly
in the Mexican war, was buried in a barrel. There being no timber fit for any mechanical use
within twenty miles, the progress of the buildings, as may be supposed, was but slow; in fact,
the only ones ever completed were two or three mud store-houses, which are already falling to
decay ; and in October, 1852, orders were received from the general commanding the depart-
ment to suspend .all labor upon the buildings here till further orders. In March, 1854, though
the order for encamping in the low ground had not been revoked, the commanding officer
humanely took the responsibility of removing the camp to the higher ground ; but the (so called)
"fort" remains to this day a mere camp, in which the troops have been for somewhat more than
two years, without flooring ibr the tents, without proper food, and often without sufficient
clothing, exposed to the intense heat and malaria of summer, and to the searching "northers"
in winter, with no shelter but the canvas, which was sometimes carried away or blown into
shreds by the hurricanes, which are not infrequent in this region, and from the force of which
not a tree could be found to protect them. Sick and well have been alike subjected to this ex-
posure.
The effect of this continued wretchedness is sufficiently shown by the medical history of the
post; before proceeding to which, I may be permitted to say that no portion of the sufferings
of the men can be charged upon the commanding officer of the post, who has done all in his
power to alleviate tliem, and has made repeated and urgent representations of the condition of
his command, and applications for the means of improving it.
The prevailing diseases are Chiefly such as would be predicted from the most casual inspec-
tion of the locality — periodic fevers, and diseases of the digestive organs.
From the very imj)erfect records left in the medical department here, and extending back to
include July, 1852, it appears that during two years there have occurred, in a command aver-
aging 170, of periodic fevers, 627; other fevers, 13 ; of cholera, colic, dysentery, and (liarrlia?a,
150 ; of phlegmon and abscess, 105 ; and of all other diseases, 408 — in all, 1,303 ; being 7,GG5
per thousand of mean strength; or every officer and man of the command has been sick, on an
average, once in three months.
It will be observed by an inspection of the consolidated report, reduced to a tabular form,
and forwarded herewith,* that the ratio of disease has been steadily increasing during the whole
period of the occupation of the post; that continued residence, far from acclimating the com-
mand, has impaired its powers of resistance. This effect is undoubtedly owing, in great
measure, to the destitution and needless exposure of the men in an unhealthy situation. Du-
ing the first year, the ratio of sick to the whole command was 268 per cent.; during the second,
557 per cent.
In the report of the mortality at Fort Ewell, there are some sources of fallacy ; thus, of 87
cases of acute dysentery, none are reported as having terminated fatally. Many of these, how-
ever, assumed a chronic form; and some were sent to Corpus Christi, and other places, where
they died of disease contracted here. Six men are known to have perished in this manner, be-
side those reported in the table ; which, with the reported deaths, make an annual mortality of
5^- per cent.
During the months of May and June, 1854, it appears, from careful computation, that tlie
proportion of sick to the whole command has been increasing more rapidly than at any time
o As in other similar instances, tlie table here referred to is omitted. — C.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS.
351
since the occupation of the post. Witliin this short period, witli a mean strength of 92, the
number of cases of disease has amounted to 162. Of these, eight only were furnished by the
scouting parties detached from the post, which exceeded in number the force left as its garrison.
Every man of the command has been disabled, on the average, five days in May and six days
in June. In these two months the government has lost by illness 1,114 days' duty. When
it is considered tliat had the men been sheltered, and otherwise properly cared for, at least one-
half of this disease might have been avoided ; and when the cost of the time thus lost to the gov-
ernment is computed, the economy of such a policy as has been pursued with these men may,
perhaps^ be doubted.
In March last, a requisition for anti-scorbutics, including a quantity of potatoes, was made
by the commanding officer, at the recommendation of Assistant Surgeon Johns, U. S. A. The
articles required were ordered to be sent hither, except that which was most needed and most
likely to be of service — the potatoes. None of the anti- scorbutics ordered have yet been re-
ceived. In June a number of cases of scurvy appeared among the troops ; and of those who
were not reported sick, a large proportion were more or less affected by this disorder.
In the character of the diseases here, since my taking the medical charge of the post, but few
peculiarities have been observed wliich bear jiarticularly upon the treatment. The attacks of
periodic fever have seldom been ushered in by chills ; and the convalescence has almost invari-
ably been slow, and attended with unusual debility, requiring a liberal use of tonics, of which
the chloride of iron and the infusion of wild cherry have been among the most efficacious. Re-
turns of the disease have, of course, been frequent ; and the tendency to recur at periods of
seven, fourteen, or twenty-one days, has been strongly marked.
At one time, when the supply of quinine was exhausted, recourse was had to common salt as
an anti-periodic. It was administered in the method advised by Dr. Hutchinson, (in the New
York Journal of Medicine, March, 1854,) and with some apparent benefit. Of 21 cases thus
treated, seven yielded to the remedy ; the average duration of these cases being 3J days. To
the 21 patients, 285 doses were given, of which 29 were rejected. The results of this treat-
ment are subjoined in a tabular form. The sulphate of zinc was also employed in a number of
cases, apparently with good results; which, however, have not been numerically estimated.
In the treatment of scurvy, the most decided benefit was obtained by the use of the freshly-
pfcpared juice of the agave Americana, which can only be procured from a considerable dis-
tance, and in small quantities.
In concluding this imperfect sketch of the medico-topographical history of Fort Ewell, I
would remark, that the long-continued operation of the causes enumerated has at length ren-
dered this command almost totally inefficient for any military purpose; and that, for the sake
of humanity and the credit of the service, it is to be hoped that the order for the abandonment
of the post, issued by the War Department in December last, may ere long be carried into
effect.
Table of cases in tvhich chloride of sodium 2oas used as a remedy in periodic /ever.
No of men.
No. of days dur-
Whole namber
No.
of doses
No. of cases in
ing which salt
of doses taken.
vomited.
which fever
was taken.
jielded.
3
5
63
2
2
5
^
90 '
12
1
7
3
U
8
2
6
2
48
7
2
21
U
2S5
29
352 REPORT ON TUE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
MEDICAL TOI'OGIUPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT MERRILL.
By Assistant Surgeon Israel Moses : 1854.
Fort Merrill was bniU in 1849, on the Nueces, four hundred yards from the right hank.
The river, in its ordinary stage of water, is fordable, and about forty yards wide. Tlie low
bottom-lands, on eitlior side, are usually overflowed during the annual rise of tlie river in June,
for miles in extent ; and tliis was especially so during the last spring. The surrounding country
is rolling, covered with rich grass, muscjuite, cactus, and clumps of oak ; the banks of the river
lined by rows of oak and cottonwood, richly festooned by licavy mosses. There is fine hunting
in the vicinity. Deer, wild turkeys^ geese, ducks, jiartridges, and rabbits abound. Catfish is
the only fish found in the Nueces; trout exist in tlie small streams in the neigiiborhood. The
fort consists of officers' quarters, and barracks for the soldiers, of square logs, and plastered
inside; a hospital capable of accommodating twelve patients, surgery, store-rooms, &c. ; store-
houses, offices, and camp-women's huts — all roughly built, and unfinished. Tlie garrison con-
sisted of companies ¥ and H, mounted rifles — about eighty-five in all — four officers, one lady,
and five laundresses. Some dozen or twenty families of settlers on the other bank of the river,
and a small Mexican ranch, were our only neighbors. Our chief food was derived from the
commissary and the field — beef, salt provisions, and game. Vegetables were very scarce, and
the only fruit inferior melons. No gardens were planted at the post, and the high water had
swept off and destroyed those of the farmers. Corn, and a few sweet-potatoes, are the only
articles raised — cattle being the chief source of wealth in this State, and especially in this
neigiiborhood. The large blue grape grows in great perfection in a wild state, creeping tlirough
and covering the trees on the river-side. It makes a very fine wine and brandy. There are no
other wild fruits. The temperature, generally, during the three months I was on duty at the
post, was very high, the thermometer averaging from 90° to 100° F. at 3 o'clock, p. m., but
tempered by a constant breeze ; nights pleasant, enabling one to sleep delightfully, and awake
refreshed. Kain has fallen in heavy showers for two or three hours almost every day, accompa-
nied by thunder and lightning and cool breezes. * * * fpjjQ pj^g^ ^yinter was rather colder
than usual. Snow rarely falls; thus we find in the month of February (14), snow fell to the
depth of 1.11 inches, but soon melted. The coldest day was the '7th of January, when the ther-
mometer stood at 22°, and ice formed three-fourths of an inch thick. Only once in February
the mercury sunk below freezing-point, during the prevalence of a severe norther. The warmest
day was August 6, when the mercury stood at 102° at half-past 12 o'clock.
Rain falls every inonth in the year, but in greatest quantity in the month of May. Then
the rivers and creeks become swollen and overflow their banks, but subside during the month
of June. The Nueces rose tiveniy-six feet in June, 1854. Very little rain falls during the
winter months. Variations in temj^erature are often very great and sudden ; a cold norther
springing up, and freezing one who, but a few moments before, may have been panting witli
heat.
Heavy fogs settle down during the night over the river and bottom-lands, and are not dissi-
pated until 9 o'clock. Fevers and diseases of the digestive system form the chief bulk of the
sick-report, I here quote the remarks appended to the quarterly report, September 30, 1854,
by Assistant Surgeon Head, who relieved me at the post on the lotli September:
"It will be perceived that, in July, with a mean strength of 79, (including therein scouting
parties,) there were 34 taken sick, or less than half the mean strength ; while in August and
September, the number of sick considerably exceeded the mean strength. Tlie proportit)n of
sick rapidly increased about tlie middle of August, and has not yet materially diminished. I
have endeavored to ascertain, as far as possible, the causes of this unusual insalubrity, and of
its sudden increase. Early in June the river Nueces rose at this point to an unprecedented
height (twenty-six feet). By the second week in June, the water had subsided, leaving exposed
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 353
to the sun a recently overflowed level of considerable extent lying to the east of the post; the
prevailing wind has been from the southeast. This rise and fall of the river was followed by
an increase of the sick-report, hut much less than that which occurred in August. More rain,
thunder, and lightning in July than June, and more in May than either. Scarcely any per-
ceptible influence of these phenomena can he traced. About July 28, the post was stripped of
many of its important medicines, to supply General Smith's escort, taken chiefly from other
posts. Among other supplies, all the quinia, except two ounces, was taken, and it became
necessary to economize the expenditure. Until August 14, small doses of quinia and piperin
(five grains each) were used ; and afterwards the treatment of periodic levers was almost wholly
by table-salt and Fowler's solution. It appears that the greatest increase of sickness coincided
almost exactly with the discontinuance of the general use of quinia. During the thirty-five
days from June 24 to August 28, there were: taken sick of malarial fever alone, 29; returned
to duty, 26. During the succeeding thirty-five days, from July 28 to September 1, there were:
taken sick of malarial fever alone, 70; returned to duty, 41.
"Dui'ing the last two months, every oflicer, (except one who had been but ten days at the
post,) every lady, every soldier, and every laundress, has been sick. There are not well meu
enough for the ordinary garrison duty ; a single tour of guard is almost certain to send a man
to the hospital."
The malarial poison appeared to be of unusual intensity, producing severer symptoms than
ordinarily accompany intermittents ; while they were prolonged in consequence of being deprived
of quinia. Having but a small quantity, and an interval of one month occurring when I was
obliged to await the arrival of a supply from New Orleans, I tried the efi'ect of a solution of
common salt, with success in less than half the cases.
I noted a marked increase in the number and intensity of the fever cases immediately after a
rainy period. Military duty was exceedingly hard, and most of the men were broken down by
heat and fatigue. If a number were sent on a scout, one-half or more returned sick ; while of
a camp of twenty men at Santa Gertrudes, only four remained well. Far from becoming accli-
mated, men grow less and less able to resist the excessive heats and fatigue of campaigning.
A feeling of lassitude, and indisposition to mental or jjhysical exertion, takes possession of all.
A tendency to scorbutus showed itself in a few, but was readily overcome by suitable remedies
and diet. Vegetables were very scarce, but grapes and melons could be procured in abundance.
Not a single death occurred at the post.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT BROWN.
By Surgeon S. P. Moore : 1853.
Fort Brown, Texas, is situated in latitude 25° 53' 21" north, and in longitude 97° 29' 15"
west, on the left bank of the Kio Grande, adjoining the town of Brownsville, and opposite the
Mexican town of Matamoras. It is eight feet above the level of the sea, from which it is distant
by the course of the river sixty-five miles, in a westerly direction, and twenty-eight miles from
Point Isabel, in a westerly course. The fort enjoys the delightful Gulf breeze from the east
every morning during the summer, which is the harbinger of health whilst the prevailing wind.
The river rises about 15 feet, and generally reaches its maximum elevation in the month of
July. The level of Fort Brown is two feel above high-water mark. The fort and town are
built upon an alluvial soil. The formation of the soil is in slight elevations and depressions;
the fort and a portion of the town are situated on one of these elevations, a depression existing
above the town, in which is a part of the suburbs; there is also another below the garrison.
When the river is high, these depressions are submerged, the water roniaining for some time.
After heavy rains the water settles around the town. When this happens, what is called Wash-
ington square is nothing but a pond, where ducks abound in winter; this square is situated on
the northwest border of the town. A lagoon is immediately below the fort; a ditch connects it
s. 96 45
35 4 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
with the river; so that when the latter is high, a free communication is established through the
ahove means. When tliis condition of the river docs not exist, there is no communication.
A majoritj' of the inhabitants of Brownsville are Mexicans, living in miserable hovels, called
"jacales;" the streets are not very cleanly, and but partially paved; the town contains about
3,500 inhabitants. There is no system of drainage in the town; the water runs off as well as
it can, or remains on the ground. The Mexicans, without an exception, and many of the Amer-
icans, use the river-water for all purposes. The Mexicans are not particular ; for it is not un-
common to see the women, after a rain, collecting it from the little puddles around their houses.
Some of the dwellings of the whites have cisterns, and to them and tlieir iriends tlie rain-water
is a great luxury. Three small cisterns have recently been constructed in the garrison. The
men use the river-water. At those seasons when the river is low, the water is so extremely
unpalatable as to render it almost impossible to drink it, being strongly impregnated with
sulphur.
This fort was established in 1848. The town of Brownsville came rapidly into existence in
the same j-ear ; since which period there have been no improvem.ents of anj' consequence, and no
clearings, around the two' places.
The Mexicans are a miserable race of beings — I speak more particularly of those in our neigh-
borhood — existing in squalid wretchedness in their foul cabins, very ignorant and superstitious.
As an instance of ignorance, it may be mentioned that the English were supposed to be supplied
with long tails, and, during the late war, those appendages were transferred to the Yankees.
Morality is in a very low state, with no sign of improvement.
Previous to the breaking out of the yellow fever, the town and fort were decidedly healthy.
During April, the maximum of the thermometer was 90°, the minimum 67°, and daily mean
for the month was 79.25; winds principally from the S.E.; quantity of rain, 2.20 inches. The
principal disease in this month was intermittent fever, and all of the cases were relapses; only
two cases of diarrhcea.
In May, the maximum temperature was 89°, the minimum was 58°, the daily mean for the
month was 78.83; winds principally from the S.E.; quantity of rain, 10 inches. The principal
diseases the same as in the month of April.
During the month of June, the maximum temperature was 92°, the minimum was 70°, the
daily mean for the month was 81.28; winds principally from the S.E.; quantity of rain, 1.7
inches. Kelapses from intermittents still continue.
In July, commenced barometrical observations; maximum of barometer 30.29, the minimum
30.00; the maximum temperature 94°, the minimum 75°, the daily mean for the month was
84.18; winds principally from the S.W.; no rain; ver}'' disagreeable weather during the month ;
days and nights oppressive; the thermometer often as high as 90°, 91°, and 92°. Fewer cases
of relapses this month than any month in the last quarter; post very healthy.
In August, the maximum of barometer was 30.24, the minimum was 30.07; the maximum
temperature was 94°, the minimum 70°, the daily mean fof 'the month was 82.48. Kain, 3.10
inches; thunder, and light showers; winds principally from S.S.E. On the 28th, a norther
sprang up, which lasted two days. A norther in this month is a very uncommon occurrence; they
usually commence in October and November, and continue until March. Heat very oppressive
after showers ; nights hot and disagreeable. A few more cases of intermittents than last month ;
our Ibrce in garrison was increased by one company of 4th artillery, recently arrived from New
York.
In September the maximum of the barometer was 30.26, the minimum was 29.07; the max-
imum of thermometer was 90°, the minimum was 62", the daily mean for the month was 78.41.
The fall of rain 8 inches. The prevailing winds were from the N.W. and S.E. The month
was quite unpleasant, cold and hot alternating ; showers throughout the month, equal to an April
day. There were four or five northers during the month — a very unusual thing. These winds
are a peculiarity of this climate; they blow so violently as to cut off all communication between
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 355
Poiut Isaliel, the Brazos, and the shipping. These winds blow for four or five days. The Mex-
ican inhabitants view these northers much in the same light that the southern people regard a
frost — that is, having the same tendency to check bilious and other fevers. In the latter end
of the month tliere were some severe cases of fever among the Mexicans; the physicians, at
first, (lid not know what name to give it ; it was commonly called the dengue. On the 23d I
was called to a man, in town, with fever; pronounced it j'ellow fever. From this date it grad-
ually extended itself in Brownsville; the type, at this time, was not malignant. In the first
part of the month, and before the appearance of the epidemic in town, a good deal of fever
existed among the crew of the steamer Comanche, undergoing repairs at the mouth of the Kio
Grande; this fever was called the dengue; some deaths occurred. I do not know what physi-
cian attended these cases. No river communication existed between the steamer and the town ;
some two or three well persons came up to town by land.
In October the maximum of the barometer was 30.52, the minimum was 29.72; the highest
degree of the thermometer was 84, the lowest degree was 50 ; the daily mean for the month
was 71.72. Quantity of rain, 7.75 inches; showery weather ; thunder and lightning. The
prevailing winds were S.W. and N.W. The weather disagreeable and raw. Two companies
of the 7th infantry arrived at this post from Ringgold Barracks, to constitute a part of the gar-
rison. The yellow fever made its appearance in the garrison in the first week of the month;
the cases exceedingly well marked, and of a more malignant type than it had previously shown.
From the lateness of the season, it was hoped the epidemic would not continue long with us.
In November the height of the barometer was 30.47, the lowest was 29.96; the height of
the thermometer was 79°, the lowest was 45°; the daily mean for the month was 68.91 ; quan-
tity of rain 1.30 inches. The prevailing winds were N.W. and S.E. Northers were frequent
during the month. The Mexican idea of these northers checking the epidemic, and purifying
the atmosphere, is not correct — the epidemic being evidently worse during and after the preva-
lence of these winds ; the sudden changes of temperature operating very injuriously upon the
sick, and not checking the progress of the disease in the least. The disease on the increase in
the garrison. During the month the epidemic ajipeared at Point Isabel.
In December the maximum of the barometer was 30.46, the minimum was 29.86; the max-
imum of the thermometer was 76°, the minimum was 42°; the daily mean for the month was
62.45; quantity of rain 0.65 inch. The prevailing winds were N.W. and S.E. The epidemic
on the decline in the second week, possibly from the want of subjects; for nearly every person
in garrison has been sick with the fever. There was a frost on the 18th, weather cool and
pleasant ; the frost was hailed with joy by the fortunate few who had escaped ; the cases that
occurred after the change in the weather were much milder in type. The last case was on
the 23d.
Since the establishment of this post, and the building of the town, they were visited in 1849
by the cholera, with a good deal of severity; the dengue prevailed in both places in 1850, and
again in 1851. Matamoras was at the same periods afllicted with these diseases. From infor-
mation that may be relied on, this Mexican town was first visited by the yellow fever in 1841,
1845, and 1853 ; at the Brazos and Point Isabel in 1848 ; at the same time the cholei'a prevailed
here, it was also at the Brazos, and proved extremel}' fatal.
It has been remarked by various authors, that an uncommon abundance of insects has been
noticed to portend disease. This was not the case here ; indeed, the flies and mosquitoes were
fewer than usual ; my experience is quite the reverse. I have noticed elsewhere that an absence
of these insects portended disease, or rather that the climate was unliealthy. Fort Mellon,
Florida, was remarkably free from insects, and yet bilious fever in all its grades was very rife.
The epidemic constitution of the atmosphere must be attributed to a departure from the usual
winds which 2irevail here, as those coming from the north lower the healthy tone of the body.
These winds uniformly exasperated the late epidemic ; they might, therefore, have had some-
thing to do in producing it, together with animal and vegetable decomposition, by means of
356 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
solar heat. The meteorological register is not complete for the years in wliich the cholera and
dengue prevailed, so that any dejiartiire from the usnal winds cannot be ascertained.
The epidemic c<mimenced its ravages in the garrison in the first week of October; was at its
acme towards the end of November, and ceased soon after the ajipearance of frost. The
first case of the late epidemic in Matamoras occurred on the 1st October; the last on the 20th
December.
Apart from the epidemic influence on man, nothing was observed remarkable in the animal
or vegetable kingdoms.
It may be asked if tlie yellow fever of the United States is the same disease as the Jiebre
amarilla, or, as it is more frequently called, vomito pneto, of the Mexicans? There can be no
doubt of it. It is tlie same disease as the yellow fever of Charleston, South Carolina, of New
Orleans, and of Pensacola, I having seen the disease in these cities; in the late epidemic that
prevailed here and in Matamoras, the symptoms were too evident to admit of doubt.
It lias been suggested at Washington that the recent wide-sjiread epidemic, which has devas-
tated the southwestern States, began in Eio Janeiro in 1850, and has been creeping northward
each successive year; in other words, that it is a new disease. It is probable that in almost
every country in which this disease has committed its ravages, it has received a new name.
From its depredations in tlie West Indies^ it has been called the St. Domingo, Barbadoes, and
Jamaica fevers; on the Guinea coast, and adjacent parts, the Bulam fever; in British India, it
is distinguished by the name of jungle fever, the Hoogly fever; and still further east, by that
of mal de Slam ; and in the south of Spain, the Andalusian pestilence. In the present day its
more common name is yellow fever, and, when the attack upon new-comers is slight, accli-
mating.
From its appearing in diftcrent parts of the world, and under different circumstances, it is not
surprising tliat it should often be accompanied with a diversity of symptoms. These distinctions
may be accounted for by the origin and laws of febrile miasm, partly upon the condition of the
body at the time of attack, and on some modification in the powers of the febrile miasm
itself.
It is supposed by some writers that the causes of yellow and bilious fevers are the same — that
is, it proceeds from marsh miasmata. The assertion can be refuted by several reasons; and,
among them, it may be mentioned that last year the garrison, Brownsville, Matamoras, and all
the ranches up and down the Eio Grande, and in the interior of the country, suifered terribly
from bilious fever in all its grades; not a case of yellow fever presented itself. During the
prevalence of the late epidemic at Fort Brown, Brownsville, and Matamoras, all the ranches
were remarkably exempt from disease of any kind. Then, again, the symptoms of the two
diseases are not the same ; in all cases of these diseases, the characteristic symptoms are observ-
able. It is evident that these diseases are quite distinct, and arise from different causes.
The question of contagion is a very important one, and has occupied the attention of physi-
cians and philanthropists for a long period, without definitely settling it; there can be no hesi-
tation in giving a decided opinion that it is not. The disease is of domestic origin. The
arguments for contagion are opposed by facts; these are well known, and need not be stated.
I may mention one instance: in 1842 or 1843, while stationed at the Barrancas, Fa., the French
steam-frigate Gomer arrived in the harbor of Pensacola, from a West India cruise, with the
yellow fever on board. Permission was granted to the surgeon of the ship to occupy one end
of the naval hospital. All the sick and convalescent were transferred to the hospital, and the
other cases as they occurred on ship-board. The disease went through the ship's crew ; yet not a
single case appeared on land^ although the hospital contained many patients from the home
squadron. Our troops were encamped within 100 yards of these sick, and the inhabitants of
the Barrancas living within striking distance. No effort was made to establish a system of
quarantine with the sick or the ship. Frequent communication took place between the sailors
and the landsmen.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. * 357
Setting aside the vexed question of quarantine, hospitals should be established in healthy
situations ; all sources of noxious effluvia should be removed ; and by correcting such effluvia,
when known to exist, by appropriate fumigations, and by excluding persons not exempt from
the disease from the infected district. These and such eflbrts should be made upon the first
appearance of any epidemic.
Recent microscopic observations of the blood might have led to important discoveries, so as to
throw more light on the nature of this disease. My time was so much occupied during the
prevalence of the ejiidemic, that no post-mortem examinations were made. Gastritis is sup-
posed by some to be the princijial part of the disease. I think yellow fever a peculiar and dis-
tinct disease, and the precise pathological conditions essential to it are at present unknown.
There were 245 cases of yellow fever treated in garrison during the recent epidemic, and 50
deaths — nearly one-fifth. The amount of mortality should, liowever, be diminished; for it
will be perceived, by a reference to the remarks opposite the names of the deceased men in the
quarterly report of sick and wounded^ that many of the patients were of very intemperate habits,
others had broken-down constitutions, and some had relapses from imj^rudence in eating, &c.
Two companies constituted the garrison of the post until the latter part of August, when the
force was increased by the arrival of one company from New York. In October, just before the
appearance of the epidemic, this force was still further increased by the addition of two infantry
companies from Ringgold Barracks. All of these men were strangers, and, of course, unac-
climated ; hence, the mortality was greater among these new-comers. It is said that the Irish
and Germans afford the worst cases; the remark is correct. Our army is principally composed
of the inhabitants of these countries, and this holds good with the men here. Other causes
operated to swell the mortality, and, under all the attendant circumstances, it was surprising
the mortality was not even greater. The principal was intemperance ; almost all the men
indulged in drink to excess ; some apparently driven to it by fear^ but by far the greater number
from pure love of strong drink. Nothing could stay this drinking propensity ; the men appeared
determined to make true the saying: ."Let us eat and drink : for to-morrow we shall die." I
can certainly say I never saw so many drunkards congregated together before. Fear was another
cause. As soon as a man was detailed to act as a hospital attendant, (in a large majority of
these details,) the first thing for the man to do was to slip off into town, and the next was to
find him drunk. It is remarked that the drunkard is almost sure to die. This saying was
realized here ; for nearly every intemperate man, seized with the fever, died. This may be a
fitting place to remark, that soldiers make very bad nurses and cooks ; which is very annoying.
The general treatment may be summed up in a few words: general and local blood-letting;
calomel, combined with quinine ; sinapisms, mustard pediluvia, enemata, &c. General bleeding
was not often necessary; this depended on the condition of the pulse, degree of fever, &c.
Calomel was always combined with quinine in several of the first doses ; repeated every third
hour, at discretion; at the same time, free cupping to the epigastrium, back of the neck, and
lumbar regions ; cathartic enemata, so as to produce free evacuations from the bowels ; a warm
mustard-bath was always used without delay, and pediluvia repeated every third hour. The
combination of calomel and quinine acts upon the whole system. I regard this combination of
the utmost importance in the treatment of all southern fevers. Great difficulty was experi-
enced in relieving the extreme irritability of the stomach: ol: terebinth: succeeded better than
any other remedy ; its use was not, however, wholly satisfactory.
In the weakened state, not much medicine was necessary : quinine in small doses, camphor
mixture, carbonate of ammonia, and a little nourishment every second or third hour.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF RINGGOLD BARRACKS.
By Assistant Surgeon Israel Moses : 1834.
Ringgold Barracks is situated immediately upon the left bank of the Kio Grande, or Bravo.
This stream is about two hundred yards wide, shallow, and impeded by sand-bars; navigable
368 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
for twenty miles further up, as far as the village of Roma, and of an exceedingly tortuous course.
The water, ordinarily, is good for drinking; but during and immediately after the spring
freshets is thick, muddy, and offensive to the taste and smell. The surrounding country is
miserably poor, covered with cactus and dwarf mesquite^ and a few ebony-trees. Vegetation
scanty, and gardens cultivated by the extrcmest care in a few sheltered and richer spots. The
site of the post seems to have been selected from being opposite the small Mexican town of Ca-
margo, four miles interiorly from the river, occupied by our forces during the operations on the
Rio Grande in 1846 ; and immediately on the right, a few hundred yards distant, is the Rio
Grande City, or Davis's Ranche, containing about six hundred souls — Mexicans, Americans,
Germans, Italians, and, I might safely say, representatives from all nations. With few excep-
tions, the inhabitants are miserably poor. The men work in the fields, tend cattle and goats,
and hunt wild horses. As in all Mexican towns, gambling is a vice indulged in by all classes.
The females are generallj^ comely, but not handsome; neglectful of their persons, and loose in
morals, but far superior to the men. The foreign residents, Americans and others, are store-
keepers, horse-traders, and gamblers. Some few years ago, Rio Grande City contained the
worst population in Texas, but now has among its citizens several intelligent and respectable
men. A large trade was done in smuggling across the river into Mexico by Americans and
Mexicans; but since the revolution and complete discomfiture of the filibusters, all intercourse
has been interdicted, and military law prevails. The foreign and better class of native in-
habitants enjoy comparative comfort and cleanliness ; but the majority live in miserable jaca-
les, crowded together with dogs, pigs, and chickens, having a goatskin for a couch, sitting on
the floor, and living, for the most part, on tortillas and chili. The complexion of the females
is generally very dark; hair fine, and black; good teeth; rather stout, but well proportioned;
polite, and agreeable in manners. The usual passion for dress and ornaments prevails, and
they are skilful and tasteful in making articles of dress. The Mexicans are remarkably healthy,
owing to their simple diet, and being much in the open air. The females attain the age of
puberty at fourteen or fifteen years of age, and childbirth is the same in character as among
other females in the same social condition. Children are very healthy and well formed, and
run about naked until eight or nine years of age.
Ringgold Barracks is a small military post, built to accommodate two companies, but at tliis
time was garrisoned by eight companies and band. Tlie commanding officer's house occujDies
a knoll about eighty yards from the river-bank, and the officers' and soldiers' quarters, on the
right and left facing the parade, are framed and plastered, and comparatively good. Latitude
26° 23' 11", longitude 99° 2' 46". Height above the Gulf, 121.9 feet.
The Meteorological Register for 1854 shows less excessive temperature than usual of both
heat and cold ; for, on reference to the record of observations of other years, I find the ther-
mometer note'd as high as 108°, though it did not reach higher in 1854 than 102° on the 16th
May. The minimum was 29°, when a very thin sheet of ice was formed during the night.
The northers were very mild, and less frequent than usual.
This is considered the hottest post in Texas. The winters are very mild, except when a
norther blows. I have sat during the month of January, 1855, with windows and doors open
until 9 o'clock, p. M.; and on the first of March it was hot enough to dispense with flannels,
and put on light linen clothing. The heat is constant for nine months of the year, and is ex-
cessively prostrating to the mental and physical energies.
The mean annual temperature is '73.66°, nearly the same as that of Fort Merrill.
Rain fell every month of the year, except April — in greatest quantity in June — and pro-
duced here the same unhappy effects as at Merrill, swelling the Rio Grande, and overflowing a
vast extent of country on both sides as far as the mouth of the river, and causing unusual sick-
ness.
On my arrival at this post (September 30), I found the same disease jirevailing which had
existed at Fort Merrill — a malarial fever of unusual severity. The disease, soon after my ar-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. ' 359
rival, increased in intensity, and attacked a large majority of the garrison, and nearly every
soul in the adjoining village ; appearing in the different degrees from ordinary fever and ague
to a low congestive form of remittent, closely approaching yellow fever. At Camargo, on the
Mexican side, four or five miles distant, nearly one-third of the population died ; more than
thirty died at Rio Grande City. Along the banks of the Nueces and Eio Grande, few escaped
between Laredo and Brownsville ; while at Monterey, Saltillo, and Mier, in the interior, the
disease was comparatively mild ; at Corpus Christi, on the other hand, it w^as of greater se-
verity, and assumed the form of hlack vomit, or true yellow fever. Cholera prevailed in mid-
dle and northern Texas. The summer and autumn have been unusually hot and dry, and the
winter exceedingly mild, frost having formed but twice or three times early in the day. During
the month of June, an unusual quantity of rain fell. By reference to the hospital register, it
is ascertained that no less than three hundred and ten cases of malarial fever occurred among
the troops, which, with diarrhoea and dysentery, sixty-six cases, go to form the great bulk of
the sickness. Out of fifty-two women and children, there were twenty-seven cases of fever, and
fourteen of bowel complaint. Out of a population of some five hundred in Rio Grande City, I
attended about two hundred, of whom six died. Scarcely a man, woman, or cliild can be found
who has not had some form of the disease. The symptoms, in all cases, were marked by great
severity — the headache, pain in the limbs and back, were excruciating; there was complete
anorexia and insomnia, with prostration of the mental faculties and physical strength ; a pale,
bloodless hue of the face, often tinged with a dull yellow, attended even the milder forms; while,
in the severer types, all these were intensified — the head hot; face either perfectly exsanguine
or of a mahogany color; conjunctiva injected, and of a deep yellow; tongue covered with a
thick yellow fur ; lips dry ; sunken expression of the countenance ; brain sometimes dull and
oppressed, so that the patient could not utter his wants ; in others, clear and active ; and again,
in a state of raging delirium, with constant crying out in loud tones and shrieks. In females,
a severe paroxysm of hysteria, and in infants convulsions, frequently ushered in the disease.
The bowels rather disposed to be inactive ; but towards the close of the epidemic diarrhoea pre-
vailed, the dejections being thin and yellowish. Vomiting of thin, greenish-yellow matter oc-
curred in nearly all cases, and in some was extremely obstinate. In fatal cases, esj^ecially of
the congestive fever, the surface is pale, cold, and clammy ; skin rugose, as if soaked in water ;
face pale, of a muddy or dull-yellow hue; eye dull; conjunctiva yellow; pulse very rapid, and
so feeble as scarcely to be felt ; voice thick and inarticulate, and mind wandering. Patients
who were apparently doing well at my ordinary visit at 8 a. m., in two or three hours after
have been found in a state of collapse, from which the most active remedies could not revive
them. Tlie disease readily yielded to remedial agents, but the convalescence was tedious; com-
plete lassitude and feebleness follow, irritability of temper, capricious appetite, irregular sleep
and indisposition to mental exertion. The complexion retains the dull-yellow, -and the lips
their bluish exsanguine hue. Relapses are very frequent, recurring every seven or fourteen days,
and, in some cases, it is impossible to break up the disease; fever and chill attacking the pa-
tient, without regularity, every two or three days, especiallj' after the slightest fatigue.
I regret that my own illness i:)revented the post-mortem examination of all but two out of
the five fatal cases in garrison. In both of these, however, I found the congested venous sys-
tem and the bronzed liver; enlarged and softened condition of the spleen, first noticed by Dr.
Stewardson, and confirmed by a large number of examinations at which I assisted while at-
tached to the New York Ho.spital. This condition of the liver appears to result from the
engorgement of the biliary and venous systems, while the contact of the intestines allows the
gases secreted in them to come in contact with the exterior surface of the liver, and give it a
dark-bluish tinge. Dr. Alonzo Clark thinks this is a peculiar dej^osit in the shape of small
scales, and is now engaged in its examination by the microscope. In neither case were the
stomach or glands of the intestines the seat of lesion.
In the treatment of the disease, I placed my chief reliance on quinia, aided by wine, brandy.
360 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
and other stimulants. I never had occasion to take blood, except locally, to relieve the pain
and sense of fullness about the head. Cathartics were only used to relieve constipation, and
these were of the mildest character — a simple pill, castor-oil, or laxative enemata. Not as
much as a dr&chm of calomel was used in all the cases. When the skin was hot and dry, fre-
quent sponging with vinegar and water; and, in cases of fullness and heat of head, a cloth wet
with the same, or evaporating lotion, were used, and proved agreeable to the patient. Full
doses of morphine were given to induce sleep, often without eifect ; this insomnia being one of
the most constant and exhausting symptoms in many cases.
Quinia was used in full doses, and without any regard to the fever ; in the remittent form,
according to severity, fromjive grains every four hours to ten grains every two hours. In inter-
mittents, I gave it every way, and found all equally efficacious in divided doses between the pa-
roxysms: in a tu'cnty-fivc or thirty grain dose an hour before the paroxysm, or a single thirty
grain dose as the sweating stage is subsiding, as recommended by an English army surgeon. I
am inclined to prefer the last mode, for several reasons — it saves the medicine; it is least
troublesome both to the patient and apotliecary ; the time is more marked ; and it is successful.
A single dose, in many cases, is sufficient to check the disease. Brandy, wine, carbonate of
ammonia, beef-tea, &c., &c., are necessary adjuvants in the different stages of fever.
At a period when I was almost without quinia, I resorted to other remedies, — arsenic in pill,
as recommended by M. Andral ; Fowler's solution ; nitric acid, as recommended by Dr. Bailey,
of Indiana, and which was of decided benefit, and a cheap article for the poor. Both at this
post and Fort Merrill, during a period when they had been stripped of their supplies, I em-
ployed a solution of salt in about fifty cases, and with success in about half the number ; but I
can regard it only as a dernier ressort. There is great repugnance to its use on the part of pa-
tients; it produces nausea; is very uncertain; requires to be used for a week or more, and, in
many cases, is rejected as soon as taken into the stomach. Hereafter, I propose giving a more
detailed account of the remedy.
The most extraordinary feature of the report is the complete absence of syphilitic disease ;
the single case of gonorrhoea was contracted in the vicinity of Laredo. Not a ca.se exists in
town, nor among the troops — a fact without a precedent ! That a Mexican town, in which there
are about two hundred women, and mostly of Mexican morals, should exist- without syphilis
among them, is a wonder.
From the entire absence of vegetable food, scorbutus manifested itself in many cases; although
only fifteen are reported, of whom one died. The remedy made use of was the bicarbonate of
potassa, in twenty-grain doses, three times a day; opium grs. ij every four hours, and a wash
of tinct: cinchonfe et myrrhiB. Two cases were treated with the juice of the maguey with bene-
fit ; but in others I was obliged to discontinue its use, on account of its cathartic action on the
bowels. Vegetables, oranges, and limes (whenever they could be procured), were given freely.
Four surgical operations have been performed, under tlie influence of cliloroform, without
unpleasant effects, and with success, viz : amputation of the arm near the shoulder-joint ; for
strabismus; amputation of the fore-finger, for deformity consequent upon gunshot wound; am-
putation or disarticulation of the knee-joint, a history of which will be reported elsewhere.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT McINTOSH.
By Assistant Surgeon Glover Perin : 1852.
This post is situated on the left bank of the Rio Grande, in latitude 27° 31' N.; longitude
99° 21' W. The plain upon which it is placed has about 50 feet elevation above low water of
the Rio Grande, and extends back from the river, at this point, about two miles, where it is
interrupted by a low range of hills running parallel with the same. The soil is of a loose,
sandy character, containing a small portion of clay ; it has a depth of from 15 to 30 feet, resting
upon a basis of cretaceous limestone.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 361
Coal of a very bituminous character is found in small quantities in the bank of the river, a
few miles above the post.
Owing to a variety of causes, such as the bad character of the soil, the small quantity of
rain, great solar heat, and the constant prevalence of S.E. winds, causing rapid evaporation,
the flora of this vicinity is very limited.
Only such trees and plants are to be found as can best resist the combined action of the causes
above named. Tlie principal, and almost the only, tree to be seen, is the " mesquite," a
species of the numerous family of the acacia. Along the river-banks may occasionally be
observed the willow (salix), ash (fraxinus), mulberry (morus nigra).
A great variety of the family of the cadi grows here; the most common is the prickly-pear
(cactus opuntia).
The more important plants of the family of the gramina, such as wheat (triticum), oats (ave-
na), rye (secale), sugar-cane {saccharum officinarum), do not grow here. Zea-mays, or Indian
corn, is cultivated in small quantities ; it requires a soil, however, which is made by deposits
from the river, and which is annually irrigated by the same.
The grasses under this head are very limited in number. The cri/jytogamia, usunlly so nu-
merous, here compose a small family.
The animals found wild in this vicinity are the leopard, American lion, or puma, antelope,
wild horse, deer, wolf, &c.
The climate is mild. The seasons may be considered as but two — summer and winter. The
summer usually commences in March, and ends in November ; a high temperature usually pre-
vails during this period, the thermometer ranging between 75° and 107° in the shade. The
winters are very mild, except during the prevalence of what are here called "northers."
These are violent north winds, accompanied usually with rain ; they continue from three to six
or eight days.
The mean annual quantity of rain, on an average of three years, is 16.63 inches.
The tabular statement which accompanies this report cannot be considered as a fair exponent
of the amount of true sickness that has prevailed at this post. I would state that it includes
all the cases reported sick, many of which were of a light or trifling character.
The intermittent and remittent fevers reported did not have their origin at this post. I
have not encountered a disease of malarial origin among the troops of this command, during a
period of three years, which did not have its rise while the soldier was on detached service.
The citizens of the town of Laredo, which is in the vicinity of the post, have a like freedom from
malarial diseases.
The diseases most prevalent here are those aiiecting the digestive organs. Among the prin-
cipal causes of them, inebriety may be considered the most prominent. There is nothing new
or peculiar in their character to elicit comment.
Of the class " all other diseases," the most common is scurvy. Owing to the great drought
which prevails here, succulent vegetables cannot be procured for the command, and scorbutus
is of frequent occurrence. In its treatment, I now use exclusively the expressed juice of the
agave Americana, and it is not usual for soldiers to go upon the sick-report.
[The use of the expressed juice of the agave Americana was first suggested by Assistant Sur-
geon Perin, in the following communication. The preparation, by direction of the Surgeon
General, has been tried at several stations in Texas, and the reports are such as to establish the
fact of its being a valuable remedy in scorbutus. The recently prepared juice is preferable to
the extract, which seems to lose strength by time.]
Fort McIntosu, Laredo, (Tex.^s,) May 7, 1851.
Sir: A few days after my communication to the Surgeon General of the 9th ult., finding, as I
had anticipated, that the number of cases of scorbutus was still increasing, and that the lime-
juice (the only efl'ectual remedy) could be procured in but limited quantity, I was induced to
s. 96 tc
362 BEPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
look for relief in some other way. Tlio imiuiry presented itself, whether the citizens of the town
of Laredo, wlio are alike destitute of vegetables, had not been aflucted witli tliis disease; and, if
80, what domestic remedies liad tliey used?
I was informed by a curate of the town, an intelligent Catholic priest, that a few cases had
come to his knowledge, and tiiat he once sii tiered from an attack of scorbutus in liisowu person.
He gave me an account of his own case, and of the domestic remedies resorted to.
He stated further, that he left his bed on the ninth day from the time he commenced the use of
his remedies, and that by the fifteenth he was so far recovered as to resume his parochial duties.
He did not know to what agent lie should attribute his rapid recovery, but expressed his belief
in the superior efficacy of warm bathing, which he used daily.
Among the domestic remedies which he used, and the one which ajipeared at once to my mind
as the chief, was the maguey, or agave Americana. This ]dant is mentioned, among the unof-
ficiual articles in the U. S. Dispensatory, as the American aloe, and "is said to be laxative, diu-
retic, and emmenagogue."
As officinally described, it is the agave Americana; nat. order, Bromeliaccxe ; sext. syst., Rex-
andria Monogijnia.
As the maguey appeared to be the remedial agent in the curate's case, I determined to make
a trial of its effects upon some of the patients suffering from the scurvy in this command. The
following cases were selected:
Private Turby, of company "G," 1st U. S. infantry, was admitted into hospital March 25th,
in the following state: countenance pale and dejected; gums swollen and bleeding; left leg,
from ankle-joint to groin, covered with dark, jjurple blotches ; leg swollen, painful, and of stony
hardness ; \m\se small, feeble ; appetite poor ; bowels constipated. He was placed upon lime-
juice, diluted and sweetened so as to make an agreeable drink, in as large quantities as his
stomach would bear ; diet generous as could be procured, consisting of fresh meat, milk, eggs,
&c.; vegetables could not be procured. April 11th. His condition was but slightly improved ;
he was then placed upon tlie expressed juice of the maguey, in doses of f. § ij, three times daily ;
same diet continued. April 17th. General state very much improved ; countenance no longer
dejected, but bright and cheerful ; purple spots almost entirely disappeared; arose from his bed
and walked across the hospital unassisted ; medicine continued. May 4th. So much improved
as to be able to return to his company quarters, where he is accordingly sent ; medicine con-
tinued. May 7th. Almost entirely well ; continue medicine.
Private Flood, company " G," 1st U. S. infantry, was admitted into hospital April 10th.
His general condition did not differ much from Private Turby's. He had been on the sick-re-
port for eight days; had been taking citric acid drinks, but grew gradually worse up to the
time of his admission, when he was placed upon lime-juice until the 13th', at which no percepti-
ble change had taken place. On that date he commenced the use of the exjiressed juice of
maguey; same diet as the case above described. April 21st. General state so much improved
that he was sent to his company quarters. May 2d. Well ; returned to duty.
Eleven cases, all milder in form than the two just related, were continued upon the lime-juice;
diet the same. On the 21st of April they exhibited evidences of improvement, but it was
nothing when compared with the cases under the use of the maguey.
Seven cases were under treatment during the same time, making use of citric acid. On the
21st April no one had improved, and three were growing worse.
At this time, so convinced was I of the great superiority of the maguey over either of the
other remedies employed, that I determined to place all the patients upon that medicine. The
result has proved exceedingly gratifying — every case has improved rapidly from that date.
The countenance, so universally dejected and despairing in the patients affected with scurvy, is
brightened up by contentment and hope in two days from the time of its introduction ; the most
marked evidences of improvement were observable at every successive visit.
From observing the effects of the maguey in the cases which liave occurred in this command,
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 363
I am compelled to jilace it far above that remedy which, till now, lias stood above every other
— tlie lime-juice.
This, no doubt, will appear strong language, hut further experience will verify it. The juice
of the maguey contains a large amount of vegetable and saccharine matter, and of itself is suffi-
ciently nutritious to sustain a patient for days.
Tills succulent jdant grows indigenous in most parts of this State, and, if I am correctly in-
formed, in New Mexico and California. In Mexico, it is well known as the plant from which
they manufacture their favorite drink, the "pulque," and grows in great abundance. As it
delights in a dry sandy soil, it can be cultivated where nothing but the cacti will grow; for
this reason, it will be found invaluable to the army at many of the western posts where vege-
tables cannot be procured.
The manner in which it is used is as follows — viz: the leaves are cut off close to the root;
they are placed in hot ashes until thoroughly cooked, when they are removed, and the juice
exjjressed from them. The expressed juice is then strained, and may be used thus, or may be
sweetened. It may be given in doses of from two to eight ounces, three times daily. It is not
disagreeable to take, and in every instance it has proved to agree well with the stomach and
bowels.
After the leaves have been cooked, the cortical portion near the root may be removed, and
the white internal portion may be eaten. It appears to be a wholesome and nutritious food. I
have seen muleteers use it in this way, and they seem to be very fond of it. I have been in-
formed, upon good authority, that several tribes of Indians in Xew Mexico make use of it in the
same manner. The use of the leaf in this way, I believe, will ward off most effectually incip-
ient scorbutus.
Tlie great benefit I feel confident will accrue to the army, by the introduction of the maguey
as a remedial agent in the treatment of scorbutus, has induced me to address you at some length
ujion this subject ; its importance, therefore, is my apology for the length of this communi-
cation.
I have the honor to remain, very respectfull}^, your obedient servant,
G. PERIN,
Assistant Surgeon U. S. A.
Brevet Brig. Gen. Th. Lawson,
Surgeon General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.
Fort McIntosh, Laredo, (Texas,) July 3, 1851.
Sir: I have the honor to forward, herewith enclosed, the quarterly report of sick and wound-
ed at this post for the quarter ending June 30, 1851 ; also, the meteorological registers for the
month of June, 1851.
It will be observed, by an inspection of the report of sick, that scorbutus has been the princi-
pal disease which has occurred at the post during the quarter. It is with no ordinary feelings
of pleasure that I can state that the report which I made to the Surgeon General, under date of
May 7th, ujjon the successful use of the agave Americana in this disease, has been fully verified
hy subsequent experience.
There has not been a single case which has not yielded in the readiest manner to its curative
effects. As soon as the patients that were upon the sick-report (at the time this remedy was
introduced) had convalesced, it was not found necessary to admit others ; the soldiers continued
upon duty, recurring to the hospital daily for their medicine. There are no cases of scurvy
now in the command.
I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. PERIN, Assistant Surgeon U. S. A.
Brevet Brig. Gen. Th. Lawsox,
Surgeon General TJ. S. A., Washington, D. C.
364
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
FORT DITNCAN.
According to the remarks appended to the (quarterly rejjort of Assistant Surgeon George E.
Cooper, Fort Duncan is situated on the Rio Grande, near Eagle Pass, Texas. The immediate
site is upon a phiteau, covered with fine grass and mesquite trees, elevated some fifty or sixty
feet ahove the river, protected on the N. and E. by a ridge of hills, from the northers, which
prevail in the winter months, hut open on the S., S.E., and S.W., and partially on the N.W.,
from which quarters the summer winds blow. The fort is some 500 yards from the river;
having in the interspace a flat, some twenty or thirty feet lower than the site of the fort, cov-
ered with hushes and grass. The soil is aluminous, until it reaches within a few yards of the
river, when it becomes sandy. The post occupies the most eligible position within a distance
of fifteen miles above, or forty miles below the Presidio crossing of the Rio Grande. The troops
suffered much from alternate exposure to drenching rains and excessive heat. Assistant Surgeon
Cooper expresses the belief that "when good and comfortable quarters shall have been erected,
this post will be the most healthy, as it is now the most beautiful, post on the Rio Grande."
The principal diseases are remittent fever and diarrhoea, the latter probably attributable to the
saline waters of the Rio Grande.
DISEASES.
Having passed in review the several positions in this region occupied by troops, we proceed
to the consideration of the principal diseases, as shown by the consolidated abstract herewith
presented; and first in order comes the following:
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
RATIO PER 1,000 OF ME4NSTRENHTH.
Treated.
Died.
First fiiiarter.
5,179
4,031
3,783
4,806
3,578
3,452
3,810
4,929
78
53
40
108
690
856
1,008
1,025
15+
13
10.6
22.5
4,450
15,769
279
3,543
62.6
15,693
235
3,526
52.8
According to this table, the relative annual proportion of cases of sickness to the strength of
the command was 3.54 to 1, and the corresponding ratio of deaths 1 to 15.95, or 6.2 per cent.
It follows also, from the foregoing data, that the proportion of deaths to the number of cases
treated was 1 to 56.52, or 1.'76 per cent. Exclusive of yellow fever and cholera, the proportion
of deaths to the number of troops was 1 in 24.05, or 4.1 per cent., and the mortality to cases
treated 1 to 83.58, or 1.19 per cent.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS.
365
FEVERS.
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIBD.
FOCBTH.
TEAR.
o
o
ii
c
1
i
•^ Ul
Strength . .
5,
179
4,031
3,783
4,
806
4,
450
ii
^i
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases. Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
o S
S o
e
Febris continua communis
Febris intermittens quotidiana..
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana...
Febris remittens
38
279
266
2
46
33
1
4
25
303
346
18
128
28
2
7
15
623 1
554
10
277 2
7 2
7
989
608
8
222
14
230
1
1
6
3
50
85
2194
1774
38
673
82
230
2
1
11
16
50
in 85
1 in 1097
1 in 1774
Oin 38
1 in 61
1 in 5
1 in 4.6
19
493
399
8
151
Febris typhus. - ..
184
Febris typhus icterodes
51
Total
664
5
848
9
1486 5
1
2078
61
5076
80
1 in 63
1141
With regard to this class of diseases, there is little to add to the details given in the special
reports from the separate posts, if we excejit the following remarks respecting "dengue," at
Fort Brown, by Surgeon N. S. Jarvis. In transmitting his report of sick for the third quarter
1850, that officer makes this statement : "Under the head of 'bilious remittent fever,' it will
be observed that the number of cases constitute more than one-half of all the diseases reported
during the quarter (38 cases, total reported 07). This complaint was that which is familiarly
known as the 'dengue, or break-bone fever,' which last appellation is very characteristic of one
of its most prominent symptoms. It appeared here as an epidemic in the early part of October,
having previously travelled along the line of coast from New Orleans to Galveston, Matagorda,
and Lavacca, to this place. In this respect, it seems to have differed somewhat in its line of march
from its great predecessor, and perhaps progenitor in epidemic influences — the cholera — which
took a direct course from New Orleans to this place ; thus boldly leaping at one bound the Gulf of
Mexico, as it had before wide and expanded oceans, in its mysterious and desolating career. The
dengue continued to prevail during the whole month of November, and a few cases have occasion-
ally made their appearance up to the present time. Few of the adult male population escaped an
attack; whereas among women and children there was a remarkable exemption. * * * *
The attack rarely consisted of more than one j^aroxysm, lasting about twelve hours, and fol-
lowed by a remission or cessation of all the symptoms that marked the approach and presence of
the fever. Notwithstanding the shortness of the paroxysm, the debility that followed was very
great^ and it was frequently several weeks before the patient recovered his former strength and
The fevers at Fort Brown appear to have partaken of the character of dengue during the fol-
lowing year (1851), particularly in the third and fourth quarters.
366
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters .
StreiiRth ,
5,179
Cases. Deaths.
SECOND. THIBD,
4,031
Coses. Deaths.
3,783
Cases. Deaths.
4,806
Cases. Deaths.
4,450
Deatlis.
^1.
Cholera A.siati('a 60
I
Diiirrli(i» 567
Dysenteria acuta 172
Dysenteiia chronica
Enteritis
Hepatitis acuta
Hepatitis chronica
Obst ipatio
All other diseases of this system. .
11
4
1
88
123
35
U
2
3
2
16
433
194
16
2
8
1
120
120
9
12
2
4
1
2
357
181
14
3
3
69
92
535
9
270
3
9
3
6
1
2
1
95
84
1
76
1892
817
50
15
14
2
372
419
44
38
9
14
1
2
6
Total 1026
53
910
30
719
14
1002
17
3657
114
11 in 19
1 in 50
lin 91
1 in 3. 5
lin 15
lin 7
in 2
in 372
lin 70
425
183
11
3.3
3.1
0.4
83
94
lin 32
Exclusive of cholera.
3581
70
lin 51
822
804
It will be seen by thi.s table that this region was visited by the Asiatic cholera; and, by re-
ferring to the consolidated abstract, it will be perceived that that disease was confined to the
first and second quarters of 1849. Commencing with the post at the nioutli of the Rio Grande,
we proceed to give the remarks of the medical ofiicers in relation to this epidemic.
A.ssistant Surgeon E. H. Abadie, in transmitting his report for the fourth quarter of 1848,
from Fort Polk, mouth of Rio Grande, although no cholera had occurred among the troops,
makes the following remarks:
"Toward the end of December, a schooner arrived from New Orleans, having on board forty
Mexican soldiers with their families. The soldiers had served as allies to the United States
forces between Vera Cruz and the city of Mexico. The vessel, having arrived during a 'norther,'
was detained at the Brazos bar ; and whilst lying at anchor a number of cases of spasmodic
cholera occurred on board, one of which died in a few hours, before medical aid could be afford-
ed. I received three of the cases in hospital; two of which recovered, the third died. No new
cases of cholera have appeared."
In his report for the ensuing quarter (March, 1849), Assistant Surgeon Abadie makes the
following statement respecting the progress of this disease :
"In my last quarterly rejjort, I reported the ajjpearance of spasmodic cholera among some
Mexicans arrived at Brazos direct from New Orleans. Since that period, the disease has ap-
peared in a very fatal form at Brownsville (opposite Matamoras), about the 20th of February.
At Brazos Island and the mouth of the Rio Grande, the first well-marked and fatal cases
occurred on the 27th February. Although a case of cholera proved fatal at this post on the
10th February, after four days' treatment, it was not characterized by the collajise, clammy
sweat, sunken features, cold tongue, violent cramps, and peculiar rice-water discharges with
intense thirst, that attend this epidemic. The first case thus marked occurred March 5th, in a
man who had not been out of the place for months, about a quarter of a mile from the garrison ;
he died in about nine hours. Since that date, every few days similar violent cases have been
seen and treated; four, out of eleven attacked, died — treatment having been resorted to; two
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 367
more of the 11 died, who did not call upon me for aid; 5 out of the number recovered. The
cause of the disease has manifestly been present in and about the garrison for the last month ;
precursors of attacks, such as diarrhoea, dysentery, bilious colic, having come under notice for
treatment, as well as attacks of cholera; tlie treating of which in the early stages has, doubtless,
l)revented the fatal termination of the disease in the garrison. In all the cases of diarrhcea
treated, the discharges were white, like rice-water or unboiled starch. The treatment pursued
has been the usual one — mercurials, local depletions, and counter-irritation being the basis of it.
Calomel and opium, diffusible stimuli, sinapisms, frictions, hot applications by hot water in
bottles, or heated bricks ; the sinapiscd hot bath, when practicable, in the collapse ; a good combi-
nation of stimuli in that stage being tiuct: opii, et tiuct: camphor : each one ounce; tinct: assafet: ,
ess: menth: pip:, each two drachms; a teaspoonful of the mixture given every half hour. Local
depletion by cups from the abdomen and epigastrium, drawing from twelve to fifteen ounces of
blood, in the commencement of the collapse, has invariably promoted reaction, arresting the
vomiting. In some cases, suljihuric ether added to the above combination has been very useful.
The aqua ammonife in one-drachm doses, diluted in a few ounces of brandy toddy, with sulphu-
ric ether, has proved advantageous. ****** it appears unquestionable that the
cholera was introduced into the Kio Grande by the company of Mexican allies already alluded
to; their arrival at Brownsville, about the 24th January (at which place their baggage was
opened preparatory to dispersing), being followed shortly afterwards by the appearance of
cholera in its most aggravated lorm, no one attacked recovering. After raging with great
mortality, instead of pursuing its course westwardly, it retrograded, and appeared at Brazos,
the mouth of the Kio Grande, and this point, as already stated, where it rages at this date with
unabated violence, apparently."
Surgeon N. S. Jarvis, in transmitting his report of sick at Fort Brown, for the first quarter
of 1849, makes the following remarks respecting cholera:
"By the above report, it will be observed that the two principal diseases enumerated are
cholera and diarrhoea. The former was Asiatic or malignant cholera, which broke out in the
town of Brownsville about the 22d of February, and in the garrison four days afterward. The
latter is only separated from the former by a high board-fence ; and its delay in attacking the
troops may appear somewhat strange, considering the rapidity with which it spread in every
part of the town within a few hours of its first appearance. It is true, a case occurred simulta-
neously in the garrison with the first case in town ; but the subject, a clerk in the quarter-
master's department, boarded and slept in the latter place, and may be fairly supposed to have
contracted the disease there. It may be said to have reached its greatest severity about the
tenth day from the period of its first breaking out, when the deaths averaged from ten to twelve
a day, in a population not exceeding 600 souls. It continued to prevail as an epidemic for a
period of thirty days, and in that space carried off 120 persons, or more than one-sixth of all
the inhabitants. Among the victims, were two out of three of the physicians located in the
place. The third was attacked, but fortunately recovered. The profession suffered equally on
the other side, two having died from the same disease — one .a Mexican, the other an American.
It broke out in Matamoras about the same time it invaded our garrison, and for a period of
twenty days raged with frightful severity. The deaths at one time amounted to over sixty a
day in a population of not over 5,000 souls; and the whole number up to this period is said to
exceed 1,000 in the town and its suburbs, or one-fifth of the inhabitants. Many who were
seized by the malady, were left to their fate, their friends supposing all human efforts unavail-
ing, having fled to avoid a similar infliction. This neglect, and an absolute want of medical aid
in a majority of the cases, or proper attendance, may, in some measure, account for this fearful
mortality. In the garrison, the whole number of cases up to the 31st of March, from the
disease, as shown by my report, is eighteen, and ten deaths — a fraction over one-half. Three
cases broke out subsequent to this date, two of which proved fatal within a few hours. The
368 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITT
subjects were a sergeant and his wife, who were attacked within twenty-four hours of each other,
and died within tlie same period. These are the last cases of the disease that have made their
appearance cither in tlic town or garrison. The sergeant had recently arrived from San Antonio,
and had been drinking freely up to the period of his attack. Although an interval of several
days had occurred since the last case in the garrison and the recurrence of it in the case of the
sergeant and his wife, it was characterized by the same severity and malignancy as in the earlier
progress of the disease, and with equal rapidity towards a i'atal termination. We may, there-
fore, presume that the specific causes productive of the disease still existed, and required only
an exciting spark to liglit up its full force and virulence. Its ravages have proved equally
fatal along the whole valley of the Eio Grande, passing witli iearful and fatal strides from one
town to another, some of which it nearly depopulated, and making sad ravages in the different
ranches that extend along the banks of that river. At Camargo, it is supposed to have carried
off one-third of the inhabitants, and the town of Koma was nearly abandoned by the inhabitants
to escape a similar fate. Its transmission along that river may be easily accounted for by the
number of emigrants passing up on their way to California, and who suffered severely at different
points from the same pestilence. In regard to the state of the weather during the whole period
of the prevalence of the disease, I would observe that it had been invariably mild and uniform,
and remarkably dry for the season of the year. The prevailing wind, southeast, had continued
steadily blowing during the whole period, with the exception of twenty-fotir hours, when it
changed to a 'norther.' No rain, of any consequence, fell; and, in fact, I recollect of but one
shower during the whole period. No atmospheric causes could be said to exist here, to account
for its peculiar severity and mortality. Tlie history of it here strongly corroborates the opinion
tliat alluvial rivers and malarial regions are favorable localities for its jn-ojiagation and exten-
sion."
Assistant Surgeon N. L. Campbell makes the following statement respecting the appearance
of this disease at Kinggold Barracks, the first post above Fort Brown:
"On the 2Tth February, 1849, the United States steamer Corvette arrived at the post from
Fort Brown, or Brownsville, at which latter place the cholera was raging. On her passage up
the river, one passenger, an emigrant to California, died of cholera; another passenger was
attacked, but recovered; and the mate of the boat was attacked by the same disease, and died
soon after her arrival. Despite all remonstrances, the boat was permitted to come to the usual
landing-place for the United States boats, near the centre of the garrison; and on the 28th,
immediately after muster, the whole command was ordered to unload the boat. They did so,
and the boat left on the morning of March 2d. At 10, A. M., on that day, a private of company
Gr, 2d dragoons, was seized with vomiting, purging, and cramps ; all indicating a genuine case
of Asiatic cholera; collapse in this case went so far as to cause all hope (though not all exer-
tions) to be abandoned; this man recovered."
This disease continued throughout the month of March, during which time twenty-three cases
occurred in the command proper, of 207 officers and men; fourteen terminating in death. Of
diarrhoea, forty (severe?) cases are Reported in the same period.
Tracing the progress of cholera in its course up the Rio Grande, it is found that on the lltli
of March, 1849, a squadron of dragoons left Ringgold Barracks, where that disease was raging,
and arrived at Laredo, the present site of Fort Mcintosh, on the 16th of that month. Assist-
ant Surgeon Glover Perin reports that in this command of 100, there occurred fourteen cases
of cholera, and thirty of diarrhcea, on that march of five days. Ten cholera cases were fatal.
In the next month (April) twelve cases are reported, and eight deaths ; of these last, four
occurred in a detachment of troops on a temporary scout.
The cholera did not reach Fort Duncan, higher up on the Rio Grande. Forts Ewell and
Merrill were not then established.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS.
369
DISEASES OF THE EESPIHATORY SYSTEM.
FIRST.
SECOND.
TUIKD.
FOCKTH.
TEAR.
Proportion of dcntlis to
i.
^ =
Strenjjtli
5,179
4,031
3,783
4,806
4,450
Diseases.
Cases. Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases. 1 Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths
Cpses.
Dealli3.
Broncliitis acuta etclironica
Catarrlius -
54
312
6
2G
14
9
4
2
2G
104
2
22
11
7
1
1
1
26
123
7
9
3
10
2
1
61
305
3
16
10
9
2
5
4
157
844
18
73
38
35
3
11
1
8
I in 52
in 844
II ill 18
1 in 73
1 in 5
in 35
35
189
riithisis piilmonalis
4
16
Pneuiuoniii.
8.5
All other diseases of this
8
421
6
172
3
178 1 3
394
11
1165 23
1 in 50
261
211
2
157
108 :
! 171
647 ; 2
1 in 323
145
1
1
Scurvy. — The troops on the southern frontier of Texas have heen, to a very considerable
extent, affected with scurvy ; the usual and well-known causes of that disease having obtained
to a great degree. In the frequent movements of the troops, and in the sandy and sterile
nature of the soil in the vicinity of some of the posts, were found almost insuperable obstacles
to the cultivation of gardens; while the long line of land transportation made it very inconve-
nient to keep up the necessary supply of potatoes and other vegetables from the principal
depots. Of a command numbering in the aggregate 4,450, 510 cases of scorbutus occurred, of
which three proved fatal.
WESTERN FRONTIER.
The military posts established for the protection of the western frontier of Texas, extend in
a line, running north and east, from Fort Duncan, on the Rio Grande, to the northern limits
of the State. Although a very brief ^jeriod has elapsed since the first occupation of this cordon,
it has already been found necessary to advance the line further west, and consequently to
abandon those first established. At present, not more than eight posts on this frontier are
garrisoned ; but the general abstract for this region, which accompanies this report, embraces
the statistics of twenty separate posts or encampments, which have been more or less jjerma-
nently occupied. The positions which have been most permanently occupied on the fii;st line,
commencing at the north, and going soutli, are Forts Worth, Graham, Gates, Croghan, Mason,
Martin Scott, Lincoln, and Inge, with the towns of Austin and San Antonio. On the second
line, further west, following the same order, the positions are Fort Belknap, Phantom Hill,
Fort Chadbourne, Camp Johnston, Fort McKavctt, Fort Tcrrett, Fort Clark, and Fort Davis.
Special reports respecting the diseases and topiography of Forts Belknai), Worth, McKavett,
and Terrett, and of the post on the Clear Fork of the Brazos, and Camp Johnston, have been
received, which will follow in due order, after a brief notice of the localities of the remaining
posts in this region, so far as the records afford the necessary material.
s. 96 47
370 EEPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
FORT GRAHAM.
Fort Graham is sitiiateil ou the east bank of tlie Brazos, in the northeast corner of a small
valley, about half a mile from the river, which at this point forms a curve, bounding the
valley on the south and west. To the east is a small creek, and immediately beyond a range of
hills. On the north, at a distance of four hundred yards, is an elevated ridge, the commence-
ment of the high prairie. The Brazos, at this point, owing to the elevation of its banks, rarely
overflows. There is a belt of timber on the east and south banks, so dense as to form an effec-
tual barrier against the extension of the miasm generated in the warm months. The small
creek on the east dries up in midsummer, but the post is equally protected on that side by a
narrow strip of timber.
FORT GATES.
This post is situated on the north bank of the Leon river, a tributary of the Brazos, fifty-five
miles south of Fort Graham. The immediate site is on the northern edge of a post-oak woods,
which extends from the garrison to the river. Between the post and the river, which overflows
its banks, are marshy strips of land, over which the prevailing southerly winds of summer blow.
Assistant Surgeon Johns (from whose reports the above facts have been obtained) remarks that
the post oak woods are so situated as to afford no adequate protection from the "northers" in
winter, and to obstruct the southerly breeze in summer, without protecting the troops from the
malaria arising from the river-bottom. He adds: "It would seem, from information derived
from the citizens of Texas, and, at least, from the experience at this post, that, with a view to
health, all locations should be made on the southern banks of rivers, in order that the prevail-
ing winds may be obtained blowing towards, and not from, rivers and river-bottoms." The
forces at this station suffered severely with fevers of the intermittent type.
FORT CROGHAN.
This post is situated on the north side of a small tributary of the Colorado, about ten miles
from that river. The immediate site is in a small valley, sloping gradually to the creek.
Assistant Surgeon Crawford remarks, that in 1851 the portion of the command quartered near
the creek had remittent fever, while that quartered higher up the slope escaped.
AUSTIN.
The town of Austin is situated on the left bank of the Colorado river, about 400 miles from
its mouth, though, in a direct line, not more than 140 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Its ele-
vation above the sea is, probably, 800 feet. The face of the country is undulating, not heavily
timbered, but abounding in prairies and savannas agreeably diversified by groves of oaks, elms,
pecan trees, &c., &c., and is unsurpassed in fertility and beauty. The south and southeast
winds, which, during the summer months, sweep over the country with almost the uniformity of
trade winds, constitute a remarkable feature in this climate, and one of vital importance on the
score of health and comfort, under a temperature which would be otherwise extremely oppress-
ive and enervating. Another peculiarity is the decided coolness of the nights of summer,
which- are uniformly of a refreshing temperature after 9, p. m., agreeably compensating for the
heat of the days. {From quarterly report of Surgeon George F. Turner, June, 1851.)
SAN ANTONIO.
The precise location of the buildings for military occupation is not known. It is believed
that, in its general features, the locality may be compared with that of Austin. As a military
post, it is on the highway to most of the forts on the western frontier of Texas, and to those in
the southern portion of New Mexico. It is, at present, the seat of the headquarters of the military
department of Texas.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 371
FORTS MASON, MARTIN SCOTT, LINCOLN, INGE, AND CLAiRK.
Fort Mason : oa the Llano river, a tributary of the Colorado. It is in a hilly district, though
not locally confined in its exposure. Its astronomical position is latitude 30° 48', longitude
99° 15'; the altitude above the level of the .sea is 1,200 feet.
Fort Martin Scott : at Fredericksburg, on the Rio Pedernales, a branch of the Colorado.
It is two miles from Fredericksburg, and seventy-five northwest from San Antonio. Its astro-
nomical position is latitude 30° 10', longitude 99° 5'; altitude 1,300 feet.
Fort Lincoln: on the Kio Seco, a branch of the Nueces river, fifty-five miles west of San
Antonio. Tlie district is quite open and arid, and the locality elevated, with free exposure
south and east, and some protecting hills to the northwest. Latitude 29° 22', longitude 99° 33';
altitude about 900 feet above the sea.
Fort Inge: on the Leona river, about seventy-five miles southwest of San Antonio, and forty-
five miles northeast of Fort Duncan. The district is moderately hilly, and generally wooded.
Its astronomical position and altitude have been very accurately determined by Miijor W. H.
Emory, of the Mexican Boundary Survey, to be latitude 29° 9', longitude 99° 7'; altitude 845
feet above the sea.
Fort Clark : on the Las Moras, a small tributary to the Rio Grande, and about thirty miles
north of Fort Duncan. Its immediate site is on the west bank of the river, on an elevation fifty
feet above it. Latitude 29° 17', longitude 100° 25'.
FORT DAVIS.
Assistant Surgeon A. J. Foard, in a sanitary report of recent date, states: "Fort Davis is in
latitude 30° 36' 23", longitude 103° 36' 45"; altitude above the level of the sea, 4,700 feet.
The post is situated in a canon about three-quarters of a mile long, filled with small oak trees.
At the entrance, the caiion is about four hundred yards wide, gradually narrowing until at its
termination it is only about twenty feet wide. The mountains on each side are of primary
rocks, about 250 feet high, and very precipitous; their tops are slightly rolling, and covered
with grass and a few oak trees, with boulders of various sizes scattered here and there. The
source from which the troops are supplied with water is the Limpia — a small stream about a
mile from the post. This water is very pure, and the stream is always cool, even in the
hottest days. The climate is pleasant and salubrious. Sudden changes in the weather are not
so common as in other parts of Texas, and, in consequence of the mountainous nature of the
country, northers are very rare. The hottest month of the year is June ; the monthly mean
temperature of which was, last year, 78.73, and for this year, 79.65. The mean temperature
lor the three summer months of last year was 76.97. The coldest month is January, the mean
temperature of which this year was 36.73. The mean temperature for the three winter months
■was 42.78. Snow falls frequently, but not in large quantities. During the last si.xteen months
it has rained eighty-eight times, with a fall of only 30.12 inches of water. The prevailing
■winds during the summer months are S.S.W, and in winter N.N.W. There are no local causes
of sickness at this place."
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT BELKNAP.
By Assistant Surgeon E. J. Baily : 1852.
Fort Belknap is situated on the northwestern frontier of Texas, in north latitude 33° 8' 45",
and longitude 98° 45' west, nearly. It is situated from Fort Washita, Chickasaw nation, south-
■west 186 miles ; from Fort Worth, Texas, a little north of ■west, 125 miles ; and from Fort
372 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Graham, northwest 110 miles. Tlie post is on the nortli )>!uik of the Eed Fork of tlie Brazos
river, about three-fourths of a mile distant. Tlie site of tlie post is on the eiltce of a rolling
prairie, which extends to the northwest and east many miles. To the south of the post, on the
right bank of the river, is a low range of mountains extending up and down the river some
distance. At a short distance from the post, the prairie terminates rather abruptly, and the
river-bottom commences, which is between a quarter and a half mile wide ; and, I should judge
from its appearance, that it is seldom subject to overflow.
The river at this place is very brackish, and derives its name (Red Fork) from the color of its
water. During the greater part of the year it is scarcely entitled to the rank of a river, and
only presents such an appearance during the wet season.
The face of the country between this post and Fort Washita is a high, rolling, and beauti-
ful prairie, presenting many views that cannot be surpassed in beauty; and I am told that such
is the general character of the principal part of this country.
As yet, suflicient observations have not been made to determine its geological formations ; but
I may state that coal, iron, and lime are found in considerable abundance. The soil, to a con-
siilerable depth, is composed almost entirely of a light sand, which renders it unable to with-
stand drought of any duration whatever. So much is this the character of the soil, that our
gardens cease to produce to any extent after the close of what may be termed the wet season.
The flora is numerous, and of great variety; but I have seen nothing, as yet, of any known
medicinal virtues. Many varieties of cacti are to be found, and many of them beautiful.
Among the animals that are to be found here, may be mentioned the white-tailed deer, and
antelope; thelober; grey, black, and ])rairie wolves; the tiger; wild and civet cats ; raccoon;
oj)ossum; the common American rabbit; anc^a much larger one, known as the mustang or
jackass rabbit. The black bear is also found liere.
Among the birds, maybe mentioned the following, viz: wild goose, summer duck, quail,
wild turkey, mocking-bird, chapparal cock, raven, common crow, red-winged blackbird, buz-
zard, blue bird, martin, &c., &c.
In most of the rivers are to be found the catfish, gar, and soft-shell turtle ; the latter is of
very fine quality, and does well for the table.
Among the reptiles, are the rattle-snake — three varieties, the diamond, black, and ground ;
the cotton-mouthed moccasin, said to be more poisonous than the rattle-snake; the adder, the
copper-head, the tarantula, centi]tcde, lizard, pond frog, toad, and horned frog.
The dift'erent varieties of trees found here are the following, viz: live-oak, post-oak, red elm,
hackbcrry, cottonwood, and mesquite. The live-oak is very small, and of no account.
Among the shrubs, are the sumach, and wild-plum bush ; the latter bearing a very good
fruit, and used a great deal among the Indians as an article of food ; they also dry it for winter
use, and this may be tlie cause the scurvy is less frequent among them.
Of the difierent varieties of grass found here, the principal are the common prairie, the mes-
quite, (of which there are said to be seven or eight distinct varieties,) and the gramma. Wild
rye is found on the prairies, and wild oats on the tributaries of the Brazos river.
The water is limestone, containing much chloride of sodium and sulphur, either free or com-
bined.
There is nothing peculiar in regard to the climate; the rain is confined principally to the
winter, and early months of spring. From the middle o£ May until October, 1851, there was
not a drop of rain, and during the last winter there was not much. From the middle of April
until the latter part of June, of the present year, more rain fell than did during the whole of
last year.
Northers, which constitute the most disagreeable feature of this climate, generally commence
about the last of October, and cease about the first of May.
The thermometer during the past winter, for one night only, fell to zero ; and 98° has been
the highest during the present summer.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 373
There is no appreciable existing cause of disease here; and if any causes do exist, they are of
an atmospherical character, combined with certain geological formations, which may aid in the
production of disease.
The whole country is a high and rolling prairie, and there are no marshes in the vicinity of
the post ; much of the present disease,, however, may be attributable to the manner in which
the troops are quartered.
Our intercourse with the Indians has been rather limited, and we have learned little in re-
gard to them ; they are, however, affected with the principal diseases of the country, which
may be put down in the following order of occurrence: diarrhoea, dysentery, and intermittent
fever ; and in many instances these prove fatal. They appear to have no remedies.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AXD DISEASES OF FORT WORTH.
By Assistant Surgeon Thos. H. Williams : 1S52.
Fort Worth is situated on the south side of the west fork of Trinity river, Texas, latitude
32° 40' 11" N., longitude 21° 2.5' W., and was established about the I'st of June, 1849. It is
built upon the northern extremity of an extensive high prairie, with a southern exposure, and
at an elevation of one hundred and fifty feet above the ordinary low-water mark of the Trinity.
Immediately above the fort, the "Clear Fork" of Trinity empties into the " West Fork;" the
former running west by south, and the latter northwest by west. These streams form at their
junction an extensive bottom, covered with a dense growth of trees and underwood. This
bottom, following the course of "West Fork," extends from west to north, and from thence
east of the post.
Southeast of the fort lies "Sycamore creek/' a small tributary of the Trinity. On the south
and southwest there is an extended prairie.
The general character of the country is high, undulating prairie, alternating with the rich
and fertile bottoms along the water-courses. The soil of the prairie is argillo-arenaceous, with
a substratum of limestone; that of the bottoms, sandy alluvion. The most remarkable features
of this portion of country are the two great belts of forest, known as the Cross Timbers. The
upj^er is about thirty-five miles north, and the lower five miles south of Fort Worth, and
are composed entirely of post-oak. They extend from the Brazos across Eed river, and are
separated by a prairie, which, with the exception of clumps of mesquite trees, is entirely desti-
tute of wood.
Settlements are rapidly increasing along the borders of the lower Cross Timbers, below the
fort, on account of the convenience of timber for building, fencing, &c., and the abundant sup-
ply of water.
Scattered upon the surface of the prairie, near the fort, there is to be found a species of marble
of the lumachella variety ; along the ravines, and in the beds of the small streams that are dry
in the summer season, are to be found a great variety of marine deposits. The animals that in-
habit this section of country are: the antelope, red deer, black wolf, grey wolf, prairie wolf,
foxes (grey and red), black bear, panther, tiger-cat, wild cat, lynx, polecat, opossum, squirrels
(grey and red), hare, and Mexican hog. The buflalo have entirely disappeared, and but few
droves of wild horses are now to be found near the post. Among the birds, we have the wild
turkey, pinnated grouse, quail, turtle-dove, meadow-lark, mocking-bird, red bird, blue-jay,
blackbird, red-headed woodpecker, flicker, prairie bird of Paradise, sparrow, turkey-buzzard,
raven, crow, hawks, and owls, of different varieties.
The fish that are afforded by the streams are : catfish, buffalo, trout, perch, . and sunfish.
The trees that appertain to the country are: red oak, burr oak, post oak, live oak, black-jack
oak, elm, ash, pecan, sycamore, black walnut, box-elder, hackberry, cottonwood, and mulberry.
374 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Of the plants growing in the vicinity, I have noticed the redhud, buckeye, flowering dogwood,
woodbine, stag-liorn sunaach, smooth sumach, sweet-brier, blackberry, common elder, milk-
weed, wild morning glory, Indian turnip, black snakeroot, yellow ladies' slipper, red mul-
berry, wild ])hnn, honey-locust, red root, two-leaved Solomon's seal, common sunflower, and
dandelion.
The climate of Fort Worth is extremely variable ; the summers intensely hot, and the winters,
though generally mild, are subject to sudden changes of intense cold; for, from the elevated
position of the garrison, we are exposed to the severe northers and sleets of the country.
Tlie [irevailing winds during the summer are from the S. and S.E.; the temperature of which,
during the dry weather of the months of July and August, becomes very ranch elevated in
passing over the lieated surface of the prairie ; occasionally the wind changes to the N. and <
N.E., blowing over the extensive bottom of the Trinity, which change is always followed by
an increase of intermittent fever.
The records of the hospital show that fever of an intermittent type is the prevailing disease
of the post. The essential cause of the disease is the malaria arising from the Trinity river-
bottom. This stream, during the heavy rains of the spring, attains a great height, overflowing
all of its bottom, and, upon subsiding, leaves the washings of the soil loaded with vegetable
remains reeking in the hot sun ; to the miasmatic emanation of which the troops are not only
exposed by the close proximity of the post, but have had to labor in the bottom every summer
and fall, getting out timber for building purposes. Tlie symptoms that characterized the dis-
ease were those usually presented, viz: the cold, the hot, and the sweating stages; the paroxysm
being preceded by the ordinary preliminary symptoms of fever. In several cases the cold stage
was entirely wanting, a profuse diarrhoja supplying its place, and which ceased as soon as the
febrile symptoms came on ; tlie diarrlioea not appearing again until the time for the next par-
oxysm. The course of treatment pursued was, where it was indicated, a purgative dose of
calomel, rhubarb, and aloes, or compound extract of colocynth, followed by castor-oil or
Epsom salts, to cleanse the alimentary canal and excite the functions of the liver. Two liours
previous to the paroxysm, from ten to fifteen grains of quinine were given, which very seldom
failed to arrest it; the first paroxysm being checked, the quinine was continued in doses of from
three to five grains, three times daily, until the time for the recurrence of the next paroxysm
had passed. Under this mode of treatment, no case ever terminated fatally. Of the 1,037 cases
of intermittent treated, 720 were quotidian, 313 tertian, and 4 quartan.
An unusual number of cases of remittent fever occurred during the third quarter of 1851, at-
tributable to the exposure of the troops on the weekly scouts to Ked river during that period. .
The fever first made its ajipearance as intermittent, and afterwards assumed the remittent form
before reaching the post, for the want of medical treatment. This tendency of intermittent
fever to become remittent, if not promptly treated witli large doses of quinine, I have noticed in
a great many cases. There was nothing peculiar in the nature of these remittent cases; they
were characterized by the usual symptoms of that disease.
Diseases of the organs of the digestive system have been produced by different causes — as
unwholesome food, exposure to extreme heat and moisture, sudden changes of temperature, and
dissolute habits. The troops at Fort Worth have been so often changed, that a great many of
the diseases reported originated jirior to tlie arrival of the patients at this post. Nine deaths
have occurred since October 1st, 1849 ; of these, two were from typhoid fever, one chronic diar-
rhoea, one phthisis pulmonalis, one obesity of the heart, one melicna, one (edematous laryngi-
tis, one chronic dysentery, and one scorbutus.
Fort Worth being a frontier station, and the country in the immediate vicinity but thinly
settled, no "vital statistics" worth relating can be collected.
No "statistics of Indian tribes" can be given, as there are none living nearer the jiost than
the upper Brazos river.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. • 375
MEDICAL TOrOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OP POST ON CLEAR FORK OF BRAZOS RIVER, (PHANTOM Hn.L.)
By Assistant Surgeon Alexander B. Hasson : 1852.
The latitude of this post is about 32° 30' north, and the longitude 99° 45' west of Greenwich,
or 22° 45' west of Washington. These numbers are approximate merely, as no observations
have been taken upon this immediate spot. Nor have any barometrical observations been made
here ; consequently, the height above the level of the sea is not yet determined.
Fort Belknap, on the Red Fork of the Brazos, is about seventy-five miles from this station,
in a northeasterly direction ; and Preston, the most western town on Bed river, containing
about 200 inhabitants, is probably 160 miles further, in the same general direction. This
route, by the Red river, Preston, and Fort Belknap, is the one by which our supplies are at
present received.
Austin, a town on the Colorado river, is about 250 miles distant to the south and east; and
it is probable that ultimately a more accessible route for our supplies than the present one will
be found in that direction, connecting this post directly with the Gulf of Mexico.
This post is situated between the Clear and Elm Forks of Brazos river, about a mile and a
half above the point where they unite to form the main Clear Fork. At this point, the distance
between the two streams is about a mile. Their average width is thirty feet; and, usually,
they can be forded by a man on horseback without wetting his feet ; but holes are numerous,
where the water is mucli deeper. At high water, during a rainy season, it is sometimes impos-
sible to ford them ; but, usually, they soon subside.
The general character of the neighboring country is prairie. A few miles to the west, is a
thicket several miles in extent, which consists of a low scrubby species of oak called black-jack,
and multitudes of green briers, which render it almost impenetrable.
About thirty miles to the south is a small range of mountains, and also a few groves of small
timber, mostly post oak and black-jack. Stunted mesquite trees are thinly scattered over the
prairies, and a little timber grows iipon the very verge of the streams, which consists principally
of elm, pecan, and hackberry.
The post itself is situated in a grove of scrub oak, about five acres in extent, and surrounded
by prairie. The scarcity and character of the timber offer many obstacles to the erection of
quarters, and they are necessarily of a very temporary character. On the ridges and high-
grounds, the soil is poor and thin ; but in the bottoms, it is probable that fair crops of corn may
be made by irrigation, or even without it when the season is favorable with regard to raiu'
this, however, will always be very precarious in this country.
This season, owing to the excessive drought, our gardening operations have failed; and even
our melons, cucumbers, and other vines, are dying ; yet, we are told by jiersons who reside in
a neighboring portion of tliis State, that more rain has fallen this year than usual.
In tlie bottoms, is a deep bed of alluvium, composed principally of sand, red clay, and, more
deeply, of blue clay. On the higher grounds the subjacent rock comes very near the surface, and
consists of strata of soft sandstone and limestone — the latter containing ammonites. Coal
although found at Fort Belknap, has not yet been discovered here. There are no marshes nor
ponds of standing water in this vicinity.
Our animals subsisted here last winter on grass alone; but they were in a very poor condi-
tion, and unable to perform much labor. The young mesquite grass began to show itself in
February; in March, the trees were assuming a verdant hue; and in April, many flowers were
adorning the prairies.
Trees. — As before stated, the principal trees which have been noticed here, are the post oak,
black-jack, red elm, pecan, hackberry, and mesquite.
Floivers. — There have been noticed, of the natural orders: Asphodelc;u, Scrophularife, Ona-
grea3. Cacti, Solanea3, Labiatas, Malvaceje, and Compositic. The individuals of the latter order
376 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
are very numerous, and bloom comparatively early. Species of lieliantlms and aster were in
iuU flower by the first of June. Wild plum buslics, about four feet in height, are numerous;
the fruit ripens early in June. A diminutive species of allium, which the men call "wild
onion," was abundant early in March, but did not last long ; and, as the men had been many
months without fresh vegetables, they availed themselves freely of this luxury. The poison
ivy (lines toxicodendron) abounds in the thickets, and the men frequently sufler from its efifects.
There has been one instance of poisoning from eating a species of mushroom. The case, which
in many respects resembled the symptoms of cholera, recovered.
Maimnalia. — Those as yet noticed are the black bear, panther, big white or greyish wolf,
prairie wolf, grey fox, fox squirrel, prairie dog, raccoon, skunk, hare, or jackass rabbit_, fallow
deer, antelope, field mouse, and bat.
Birds. — Tiiese are the bald eagle (haliaefus leucocejjlialus) , turkey buzzard (catJinrfes aura),
carrion crow (cathartes atratus), common buzzard (huteo vulgaris), common American crow (cor-
vus Americanus), a species of goose, crane, and heron, great-horned owl (bubo Virginianus) ,
little-horned owl (hibo asio), mallard duck (a7ias Bosclias), green-winged teal (anas Carolinensis),
blue-winged teal (anas discors), long-billed curlew (nicmenius longiros(ris), belted kingfisher
(alcedo alcyon), night hawk (cliordeiles Virginianus), wild turkey (mealeagris Gallopavo), Ameri-
can partridge (ortix Virginiana), pinnated grouse (tetrao cupido), kildeer plover (charadrius
■voci/erus), other species of plover, meadow lark (sturnella Ludoviciana), chuck-will's widow (cap-
rimulgus Carolinensis), swallow-tailed fly-catcher (milvulus forjicatus), common crow, blackbird
(quiscalus versicolor), summer red bird (pijranga (estiva), common mocking-bird (Orplieus puhj-
glotlus), American robin (tardus migratorius), several species of woodpecker (picus), dove (col-
umba), bunting (emberiza), finch (fringilla), and other small birds.
Reptiles. — The rattlesnake (very abundant), small ground rattlesnake, a long yellow snake
called here the prairie racer, and one or two other undetermined species ; the toad, tree frog,
bull i'rog, horned frog, lizard, tortoise, turtles (bard and soft shell).
Insects. — These are numerous; among them we may mention the tarantula, scorpion, locusts,
crickets, grasshoppers, butterflies, house flies, horse flies, mosquitoes, fleas, ants, and numerous
bugs, worms, and flies that infest the gardens. The honey-bee was seen a few days since.
Fish. — Those as yet noticed are the catfish^ mud cat, gar, sunfish, eel, minnows, bass, and a
fish called here the "drum."
Indians. — Small bands of Caddoes and Wakoes live about seventy-five miles below, on the
main Brazos. They have permanent villages composed of grass wigwams, of a conical shape,
with a bole in the top for the escape of the smoke. They cultivate small patches of corn and
melons.
The Witchetas are occasionally seen here ; but the Indians who principally range in this vicinity
are the southern Comanches. This tribe is purely nomadic. Their frail lodges are speedily
erected wherever they stop, and are made of a few twigs or poles cut upon the spot, and scantily
covered with skins, or, more frequently, with blankets and pieces of muslin procured from the
whites.
Very few buffalo have been seen so far south as this place since the year 1837, and, as the
Indians raise no corn nor melons, they are frequently much distressed for food. Besides the
ordinary beasts of the chase, they subsist on mules and mustangs, or wild horses, which they
catch on the waters of the Colorado, and south of that river. They also depend greatly on war,
begging and stealing animals. Several bands of them came to this post last winter, and were
furnished with jirovisions. They consumed all the soft parts of a beef, and readily devoured
the entrails, without even placing them on a fire.
Mexicans, both adults and children, are frequently seen among them, who are, for the most
part, prisoners taken in war ; they appear to mingle on terms of perfect equality with their
captors. This tribe is fond of carrying off children, for the purpose of recruiting their fast
waning numbers, and for which the natural process seems inadequate.
AMONG IHE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 377
In spite of all that is sometimes said about the effects of exposure in hardening the In-
dian's corporeal frame, it is probahly true, as a general rule, that only the hardier constitutions
survive the process, and many lives are lost during infancy, which, in a civilized community,
would have been reared to useful manhood. Our interpreter tells me that among the Comanche
women he has frequently known and heard of cases of death in child-birth, and that he has seen
in the tribe many cases which he called rheumatism and consumption.
Venereal diseases, also, are very common among them. They have medicine-men, whose prac-
tice consists in the administration of herbs, and the performance of superstitious ceremonies.
They are said to possess the knowledge of a plant which is an infallible cure for the bite of a
rattle-snake, a very numerous reptile in this country ; but I have not yet been able to procure
any satisfactory information on this point.
I am not aware that the customs of the Comanches differ much from those of the wild prairie
tribes generally. The dress of the men consists of buckskin moccasins and leggings, extending
from the upper portion of the thigh down to the foot, which are sewed so as to fit tolerably close
to the skin, and leave a wide margin of buckskin flapping loosely beyond the seam ; a cloth is
tied around their middle, and over their shoulders hangs a robe of skins or a blanket. The head
is generally naked, and adorned with feathers ; the hair is worn long ; trinkets hang pendent
from their ears, and their faces are daubed with paint. They pull out the hair which grows
upon their faces, and even their eye-brows ; but, in a few instances, where this practice is
omitted, they have less hair upon their faces than the whites. The women wear tight-fitting
leggings, like stockings, which extend only to the knee; a cloth around their middle, and over
their shoulders a blanket which is strapped round the waist. They wear their hair short, and
use fewer ornaments and less paint than the men. It is their duty to pitch the lodges, take care
of the animals, and perform all the menial duties for the men.
In this tribe, as among Indians generally, polygamy is common.
The youngest children are carried about in a sack made of skins, with an oi^ening for the
head, which is suspended from the shoulders of the mother and hangs upon her back. On ar-
riving in camp, this is frequently suspended from the limb of a tree, and the mother swings it
occasionally as she performs her work.
The Tonkiways are a small band who live to the south of this post, in the vicinity of Fort
Graham, and on the borders of the settlements. They are sometimes employed by the settlers to
work upon their farms. I have been told by a respectable Texan that they are cannibals, and
that their pregnant women have been known to cut the feet from dead bodies and eat them,
under the belief that their children would thus be rendered great walkers.
It is a well-known fact, that they will eat almost anything, and that no carcass can be so old
nor meat so putrid as to repel their appetite.*
Diseases. — The mean strength of the command, for the whole period of seven months, is 231;
total number of cases for the same time is 293; consequently, every man has been reported sick
once in every five months and a half.
There have been two deaths since the first of December — one from scorbutus, and one from
pulmonary apoplexy.
The men have been kept at work all winter on fatigue and extra duty, and lived in camp ; yet
the diseases have been generally mild and readily amenable to treatment.
As the atmosphere of this place is uncommonly dry and free from paludal exhalations, it is
probable that the number of intermittent cases would not have been so large had not our men,
many of whom suffered from this disease while in camp during the summer near Fort Washita,
been compelled to remain in camjJ at this place all winter.
After a rain, the evaporation is extremely rapid in this country; to which cause some writers
have occasionally attributed this disease.
- Several meteorological tables and au abstrucl ol sick aud wouDdcd are oniittod. — C.
S. 96 48
378 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
There have been eighteen cases of scorbutus in this command since its arrival here, but there
are none at present. Our gardens are yielding us little or nothing, and offer no prospect of
vegetables for the winter. This is owing to the extreme drought, although persons from the
country below us say that more rain has fallen this year than usual. Gardening operations in
this country must always be very precarious.
Water from the creek was used by the men all winter; it is brackish, and when the weather
became warm it grew offensive after standing a short time. A spring was then discovered,
which has furnished us with sufficient water ibr the purposes of drinking and cooking; but it
seems to be failing fast as the season grows dryer. If we can procure an adequate supply of
good water, and make our gardens productive, I think this will prove a healthy post.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF CAMP J. E. JOHNSTON.
By Assistant Surgeon Ebenezer Swift : 1852.
Camp J. E. Johnston, Texas, lies in latitude 31° 30' N.; longitude 100° 51' W., and is ele-
vated 2,100 feet above the level of the sea.
It is distant about 110 miles northwesterly from Fort Mason, 70 north from Camp McKavett,
and 100 southwesterly from Thantom Hill, (S.W. by W. ^ W.)
The camp is situated on the south side of the North Concho river, on slightly undulating
ground, rising 12 or 15 feet above the alluvial banks, in a valley commencing with the source of
the river, and bounded on each side by ranges of high hills or mountains, which, diverging,
give to it at this place a width of five miles, and lower down the stream much more.
The river rises in the mountains, runs S.E. 50 miles, and unites with the main Concho, a
tributary of the Colorado, 18 miles from the camp. It is forded with facility, being in many
places not exceeding 12 or 15 feet in width, and less than a foot in depth. Pools and rapids
alternate with each other throughout its entire course. The water is rendered turbid by the
alluvial nature of its banks, contains a slight trace of chloride of sodium, and is sometimes per-
ceptibly brackish.
The banks of the river are in some places two or three feet higher than at a distance of two
or three hundred yards, where the ground again rises and becomes undulating. These low
places are converted by heavy rains into ponds of considerable extent, which, however, are soon
drained by the porous nature of the soil, or evaporated by the uninterrupted rays of the sun.
There are evidences of the river having overflowed its banks two or three years ago.
The soil of the valley, composed of alluvium, clay, lime, sand, and vegetable mould, is very
fertile, and capable of supporting a luxuriant vegetation, while the hills are rocky and barren.
Forest-trees are almost wholly confined to a narrow belt along the river. Rains are abundant
for purposes of agriculture, and are not productive of disease. Winds are variable, and often
high, from the open nature of the country.
Geolofftccd character. — In many respects this resembles in geological character all other por-
tions of the high land of Texas, commencing with a chain of hills which, rising abruptly from
the undulating prairie which comprises the middle portion of the State, extends westward and
northw.ard from near Fort Inge, San Antonio, Austin, and Fort Gates, having a horizontal
stratification abounding in lime, quartz, sand, and clay, and containing fossil tesfacea. At
Forts Crogban and Gates I found quantities of oyster-shells {pstrea deltoidea), in beds of marl
and pebble, or in consolidated masses, which are found here, though not so numerous, and im-
bedded in strata of compact limestone. At the above-mentioned places I found also specimens
of ostrea carinata, cytherea exoleta, and ammonites of large size.
The masses of granitic rock near the Colorado and in the Llano, between Fort Croghan, Fort
Mason, and Fort Martin Scott, give evidence of recent igneous origin invading secondary forma-
tions, as does also the crystalline limestone.
That portion of the State bordering the coast is low, flat, and alluvial, resting on beds of
hardened argillaceous marl and gravel. I was favored with specimens of the former more than
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 379
a year ago, by the kindness of Mr. Cooper, then engaged in boring an artesian well at Corpus
Christi. The immediate neigliborhood of the Gulf gives evidence of very recent formation ;
and many places of having been reclaimed from the sca^ as it were, by an upheaving power.
I liave made the above digression with reference to the relative age of this and other portions
of the State.
Geological observations. — In a district comprising 60 or 70 square miles, extending from six
miles above to six or seven miles below the camp, and of the width of the valley, I have made
the following observations of the banks of the river and gullies, and the stratified rock cropping
out from the hill-sides. Commencing with the top of the most prominent hill, and descending,
I found as follows:
Summit — Large fragments of broken limestone, containing flints, vegetable mould, and
finally broken stone. 1. Shelly limestone, invaded by a vein of flint, as if cooled from a state
of fusion, an inch thick, superimposed upon and covering a stratum of shelly limestone ; 2. Com-
pact grey limestone, eight inches thick, with limestone abounding in shells some six inches in
diameter ; 3. Compact grey limestone, containing sand, pebble, and limestone containing shells ;
4. Coarse yellow sandstone; 5. Fine yellow sand, with felspathic encrustation; 6. Coarse yel-
low sand, compact and hardened; 7. Reddish clay, sand, and loam; 8. Arenaceous or gritty
marl; 9. Coarse reddish sandstone, or grit, with sand quartz, and a trace of oxide of iron and
manganese. The base composed of broken rock, sand, clay, loam, pebble, peroxide of iron,
and manganese.
Following the same course with hill No. 2, I found —
The hill-top composed of conglomerate. 1. Compact grey limestone, very thick; 2. Yellow
sandstone, fifteen or twenty feet; 3. Conglomerate, abounding in flints; 4. Clay, loam, and
pebble; 5. Yellow sandstone; 6. Indurated sand, clay, and pebble; 7. Clay, lime, sand, and
peroxide of iron, and nickel; 8. Coarse red sandstone; 9. Fragments of lime, sandstone, &c.
In hill No. 3, nearly opposite the camp, distant about three miles:
Summit — 1. A mass of grey limestone ; 2. Coarse yellow sandstone, twenty feet; 3. Arena-
ceous limestone; 4. Conglomerate, flints, &c., fifteen feet; 5. Coarse red sandstone; 6. Clay,
sand, and loam; 7. Coarse red sandstone; 8. Grey quartzose stone; 9. Broken limestone and
flints.
In hill No. 4, the top consisted of —
1. Hardened marl, with shells and pebble, invaded by continuous veins of flint; 2. Con-
glomerate, very thick; 3. Compact grey limestone; 4. Sandy grey limestone; 5. Quartzose
rock; 6. Fine bluish-grey compact limestone; 7. Conglomerate; 8. Dark grey sandstone;
9. Compact reddish limestone; 10. Coarse grey sandstone, lime, and pebble; 11. Compact grey
limestone, containing snaall shells and crystallized sulphate of lime ; 12. Conglomerate, very
thick; 13. Vegetable mould, broken limestone, sand, and pebble.
The bottoms of the rivers, creeks, and gullies are formed of conglomerate, and their banks
chiefly alluvium, loam, and pebble; the alluvium containing shells of existing species deeply
imbedded. On Grape creek, about eight miles from camp, I found the east bank, for several
hundred yards, composed of yellow sandstone more than thirty feet thick, and higher up the
stream a large mass of pure white clay.
Botanical features. — The botanical expression of the country is plain and simple, undergoing
but few changes. During the month of April the earth is clothed with verdure, and in May
the hard-l'eatured hills and the prairies are covered with flowers. The blue gentianas, bright-
yellow crysantha, and the snow-white, palm-like blossom of the tall-stemmed bear-grass mingle
their bright colors with a carpet of dark green, here and there diversified by a miniature forest of
pine-like acacite-form mesquite, and the taller pecan marking the river in its course. Other
months are represented by the sunflower, jioke-weed, cardinalis, thistle, and evening prim-
roses, solidago and asters, and some members of the families Liliaceai, Labiatae, Solaneae, Big-
nonea3, Umbelliferaj, and Typhaj.
380 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Pecan, (carya olrvcef&rmis,) the most common forest-like tree, and attaining a large size,
some measuring twelve and fourteen feet in girth six feet from the ground, skirts the river-
banks, and grows upon some of the gullies and tributary creeks.
Live oak (querciis virens) abounds as a shrub in many places throughout the valley, from a
season's growth — the most common, to five or six feet in height. Some small groves and
insulated trees, which have been protected from the fires of the prairie, have attained a larger
size ; one near the camp measures thirteen feet in circumference four feet from the ground,
another ten feet; the former being about forty feet high, the largest tree of the kind I have
seen in Texas.
Mesquite, a variety of acacia, is more common, and seems to make greater resistance to the
prairie fires than any other arborescent vegetation. Many places several hundred acres in extent
are sparsely covered with trees having attained their ordinary growth, twelve or fifteen feet in
height, affording the camp a supply of most excellent fire-wood. A small shrubby variety
grows everywhere.
Black willow {salix nigra) is confined to the river, attaining sometimes a height of twenty
or thirty feet.
Ked mulberry, a small variety, we found in May bearing fruit.
I have seen a few isolated scrubby red cedars, and also a few stunted river elms.
Primits Americana furnished us with some very good fruit in August.
A variety of grape, called in Texas post-oak grape, (I don't know why,) grows in the sand and
silt along the gullies and creeks — more like a shrub than a vine, two or three feet high, and
produces excellent fruit, from which I made very good wine.
The Cactus, or prickly-pear family, is represented by four varieties, the chief of which is the
cactus opuntia; of the other varieties I have seen but few specimens.
Fauna. — The principal animals inhabiting this section of country, we may say are white-
tailed deer and antelope; bears and buffalo are seldom seen. This valley is not, and does not
appear to have been, their favorite range; but one of the latter, half-grown, and a very old
skeleton of another, are all the evidences we have seen of them. Prairie wolves are numerous,
and the large black and grey are sometimes seen, as also red and grey foxes and raccoons.
Beavers have been scmietimes trapped along the stream by the Delawares. Panthers, civet cats,
wild cats, and long and short-tailed tiger cats, it is said, inhabit the river-bottoms.
The country, for more than thirty miles on every side, is -dotted over with prairie-dog towns,
mimerously peopled — a district very probably destined to have no other population — presenting
a picture of desolation the imagination can with difficulty conceive ; their forsaken underground
habitations become the dwellings of rats, squirrels and moles, mice, bats and hawks, owls, lizards
and rattlesnakes ; the latter in great numbers. Rabbits and hares are often seen ; land tortoise
are occasionally met with.
Characteristics of climate. — Meteorological observations have been made at this place during
a period of six months (April to October, 1852). The thermometer was suspended from a tent-
pole, and protected by two thicknesses of ordinary tent-cloth from the direct rays of the sun.
The mercury attained the highest points on the 10th, 11th, and 12th of July. On the latter
day, at 3|, p. m., it rose to 102°.
Habits, diet, and condition of men. — The soldiers occupy small or "common" tents, placed
in the usual form of a camp ; from two to four men in each. They have generally made for
themselves bunks of grass and the branches and leaves of trees, which, raised a little from the
ground, protected them from wet and damp ; they also protected themselves from the sun by
means of bowers made of bushes, supported by a kind of frame-work above their tents. Not-
withstanding this, they were much warmer than those of the hospital, where the thermometri-
cal observations were made.
During the summer the men wore their undress ivoolen uniform, having no other; and upon
all military dress duty, the ordinary forage-cap and belts; many of the men were employed as
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 381
teamsters, in supplying the camp and the general depot with subsistence and quartermaster
stores from the coast to San Antonio, and from the latter place here — a distance of more than
350 miles.
On account of an insufficient supply of timber, the troops were not employed in building
houses and a fort ; and as it was daily expected during the six months that the camp would be
moved, the soldiers were not employed in "field-culture;" and the country being at peace and
quiet, they were not sent on scouts.
The men have subsisted on fresh beef, pork, and bacon — the former being issued once in five
days — hard bread, beans and rice, sugar and coffee ; they have eaten no vegetables but prickly
jiear and poke-weed. In September, molasses, pickles, and dried apples were received, and
issued in lieu of some portion of the ordinary ration.
The water used by the camp, from a small well near the bank of the river, contained a slight
trace of iron, and in June had a temperature of 68°. The men, or some of them, drank whisky
to excess, being somewhat of intemperate habits.
In June sevei'al men were relieved from their posts as sentinels, on account of the heat ; but
none in July or August.
The mean strength of the camp, consisting of five companies, the headquarters, and non-
commission staff of the 8th infantry, averaged 9 officers and 159 men; total 168. There were
also five families of officers and their servants — 11 women and 20 children.
On the 30th of April there were on the sick-report nine men. From the 1st May to 30th
September, 142 cases of disease were treated; of which 135 returned to duty, and 7 remained
on sick-report — averaging one-sixth of the command sick each month.
During the period of nearly seven months, commencing March 20th (Assistant Surgeon
Johns being in charge of the hospital), and ending October 13th, 182 men were returned to
duty, averaging 61 days' sickness; febris intermittens quotidiana, 9 j^ days; febris intermittens
tertiana, 2| days; diarrhoea, 3 days; scorbutus, ITyy days.
Many cases of a scorbutic taint, with livid spots and spongy gums, were not received into
hospital or relieved from duty, but recommended to cleanliness and a vegetable diet — prickly
pear and poke-weed. They got well.
Diarrhcea usually resulted from imprudence of diet or drink, and was easily managed,
requiring little else than a mild cathartic.
Some temporary ailments were prescribed for; the men, not being relieved from duty, were
not put on my sick-report.
Intermittent fever has been the most prevalent disease of the command, arising from no appa-
rent local cause, but rather from predisposition. Companies "K" and '''Gr" came here from
Fort Martin Scott in better health than the other three, "A," "C," and "I." In the latter
company there have been 21 cases quotidian and tertian — half of the entire number reported.
This company came here from Fort Gates, where intermittents had prevailed to a greater extent
than at any other post in Texas.
The men comprising it were seized with a paroxysm from slight causes — exposure on guard
or fatigue duty, atmospheric changes, wet and cold, eating prickly pear, or any slight impru-
dence of any kind.
A corporal and three men of company "I " were brought to liospital by their orderly ser-
geant, who reported the men as having been engaged the day before on fatigue duty — getting
fire-wood for the camp; while out, they ate prickly pear, and on their return they had a chill.
I have had similar reports from others.
Lieutenant C had been stationed at Fort Gates about a year ; had had an intermittent
eight months of the time, and was confined about two months to his bed with daily paroxysms,
and which subsequently recurred at irregular periods of from five to ten days, continuing about
the same period. These paroxysms occurred whenever exposed on detached service, or upon
exposure of any kind. He was in the habit of taking eight grains of quinine almost daily, as a
382 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
preventive, and applied to me for a new supply of pills. I discontinued the quinine, and gave
him guttae xx three times a day of the following: R hyd: potass: 9j, iodine gr. j, aqua font: | j.
M. — and blistered the region of the spleen. He had, after commencing the above treatment,
but one paroxysm, induced, as he informed me, by bathing in the river. Other cases I treated
in a similar manner, with the same results. My success, however, I attribute more to rest,
cliange of diet, and climate, than to any medical treatment.
Abscesses and ulcers do well ; the sixteen cases treated averaged seven days. Fresh wounds
require daily dressing to protect them from maggots, when there is no other necessity.
Sergeant W , bit in the right hand by a rattlesnake, had his wound dressed constantly
with lint saturated with liquor ammoniie; notwithstanding which, the maggots got into it;
they were, however, speedily removed by a dressing of calomel — a never-failing remedy.
In a case of idiopathic trismus, arising from exposure to cold, which terminated favorably, I
think I was greatly aided by the administration of the fumes of chloroform. I have used this
remedy in many cases, externally and internally, and with favorable results. In the case of a
German laborer, of Fredericksburg, of intemperate habits, who had been wounded in the knee
by a rifle-ball, breaking to pieces the patella, shattering the condyles, and fracturing the femur
above the middle, I took off the limb at the upper third of the thigh about 36 hours after tlie
accident, under the influence of chloroform, and never had an amputation to do better. This
was done in December last, and the patient has long ago recovered. He had lost much blood,
was exceedingly irritable, and, but for the aid of chloroform or a narcotic, I should have had
trouble in controlling him.
Indian tribes. — The Indians which occupy this section of country belong to the class called
prairie or wild Indians, which, including the northern tribes, number about 20,000, and are
known by different names.
Tlie Comanches proper are supposed not to exceed 9,000 ; of this number, about 500 have
been present at councils, and visit the military posts. During the last six months, they have
been almost constantly with us, a band remaining two or three days, and then giving place to
another. I recognize among them the same familiar faces I have known three years. Their
numbers do not increase, but perceptibly diminish. Two hundred warriors is the greatest
number I have seen together, and but once.
Origin* and history. — They have a tradition, that they emigrated about the middle of the
fourteenth century from South America, and were called Pa-to-kahs ; crossing the isthmus,
they saw the "big water" on both sides; and pursuing slowly their progress nortliward, they
met with many hostile tribes; among the number, they recognize the Lipans, who prevented
them from making any permanent settlement till they arrived on the Rio Grande, where they
remained in one place severiil years — they don"t know how many; it may be fifteen, or fifty;
the former of which is most probable. They settled again, and remained about the same time
at Presidio del Norte ; after which, they proceeded northward to the San Saba, and the head-
waters of the Colorado and Brazos. Here they found an excellent country — wood, good water,
and luxuriant grass ; game abundant, and the hunting-grounds unoccupied. They say the
Great Spirit brought them here from the persecution of their enemies, and gave them this coun-
try for their possession and that of their children forever. They brought with them horses and
mules. Had never seen whites, and were armed with knives made of buffalo ribs, clubs, bows,
and arrows headed with flint and obsidian. They boast of being the peculiarly favored people
born of the earth, assuming rank and precedence over all other tribes, whom they call strangers,
and say to them "What riglit have you to talk?" "Did you come out of the ground?"
They were prosperous and happy, were increasing in numbers and strength, and had enjoyed
many years of ])cace ; when the Spaniards, tlie first white people they had seen, came among
them and built torts and churches. They received them as friends, and made a treaty, which
" There are strong evidences of their originating from tlie southern tribes of Africa.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 383
the whites soon broke, bv enslaving some of their tribe, whose descendants, they affirm, are still
held by the Mexicans as jieons. War was declared in their councils, which resulted in the
massacre of the garrison on the San Saba, but three or four escaping, and the breaking up of
the settlements north of San Antonio. Since which time, till 1845, the Comanches held a very
peaceable possession of their country, save some little annoyance from Texans.
To retaliate on the Indians for this act of savage inhumanity, the Spaniards invited all their
chief men to Monclovia, to a great council of peace and amity. They caused them to be seated
in a circle on the ground, which had been previously mined with gunpowder, which was then
fired, killing many; the remainder were shot or otherwise put to death. Since then, war on
the Spaniards and Mexicans has been interminable; they consider them their natural foes. The
mounds or earth-works found about the country were built a long time ago by the Comanches
as places of defence.
Traditions. — They have a tradition of a monster serpent — the cause of earthquakes and vol-
canoes — that devoured herds of bufi"alo and deer, and drank up rivers : and also of a raven, that
talked to one of their tribe; since when, they have been unfortunate. Thunder, they believe
to be the voice of a big eagle; and lightning, his breath, that changes the wind and makes it
rain, the source of^the tempest and tornado.* Like other races and tribes of men, they have
traditions of jiestilence and flood, of fire-balls and dark days. The earth, they believe to be a
great flat island, which they call so-co-vie-ha-te, surrounded by the "big waters," which, when
they terminate, change into clouds and mists that are constantly rising up to the sky, thereby
preventing the sea from filling the rivers and rising upon the land.
When the earth becomes filled with one tribe speaking the same language, when wars are
at an end, and there are not hunting-grounds for all, they believe the Great Spirit will destroy
it by fire.
The moon, they believe to be a man who is periodically fat and lean ; and the stars, some
think, are good Indians who long ago died.
Beligion. — They believe in a kind of trinity, composed of the earth, sun, and the Great Spirit ;
and include them all in their simple mode of worship. The earth is their steward, or imme-
diate dispenser of all good and evil, (save the spiritual interposition ;) gives them food, health
and happiness, famine and disease. The sun is their mediator, through which they appeal to
the Great Spirit, who dwells far beyond mortal vision or conception, and cannot be seen or heard.
The Divine interjiosition may be felt for good or evil ; directing the fatal shaft which kills their
enemy; guiding the arrow or bullet harmless from their person; and, unknown, protecting
them in hours of danger; or, withholding the rain, the grass withers; making their medi-
cine-men and their charms and amulets powerless ; bringing death to a favorite chief, squaw,
or horse. They believe, while they are virtuous and good, according to their ideas of virtue
and goodness, they will be prosperous and happy ; and otherwise, with other results.
Tlieir ancestors believed in a future state or condition, as do some of their oldest men ; the
general belief, however, is, that they die and there is no more of them. Their religious observ-
ances are simple and various, and connected with their daily pursuits. After a day's march,
they pour water on their heads — a kind of libation or health ofi'ering; and whenever they
smoke — two or three times a day, or oftener — they observe the following ceremony: One of a
group of three or four takes from his bag tobacco and pipe ; the latter being filled and lighted,
he takes three or four whifl's, and, with much gravity, passes it to his chief, who does the same,
and passes it on to his neighbor; and thus it circulates round till exhausted — each, in his turn,
observing to pufi" the first smoke upward, as an oblation to the Great Spirit, and for the sky to
give them rain; next, to the earth, to give them health, and grass to feed their horses and
fatten the game; and, finally, they blow it over themselves, to protect their bodies from disease
<* The Ki-au-ways telieve the bear to he allied to the human family, and will not kill or injure one, and they cannot he
induced to sit on or touch a hear skin.
384 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
and wounds; this repeated, they continue smoking, after the manner of Mexicans, retaining the
smoke for an instant in the fauces and air-passages, then letting it escape through the nose.
Death and hurial. — Wlien a Comanche dies, they burn his clothes and kill his best horse and
dog, which, together with his implements of war and hunting, they bury in the ground with
him. At night they run howling about camp, beating the tents with a bush. As soon as he
is buried (tliey liave no observance of position), they leave the place and do not encamp there
again for at least six months. The Lipans, who plant corn and have villages, abandon them
when one of their number dies, and never occupy the place again. They say the Great Spirit
is angry ; he has given us plenty of land; if we stay here, more will die; we must go.
The wife, relatives, and friends, mourn the departed by cropping their hair, and.cutting the
manes and tails of their horses, painting and otherwise disfiguring them ; wailing or crying,
and scarifying their bodies for several days.
Marriage. — To get a wife, an Indian has only to make a few presents to the father, brother,
or nearest relative, who makes the proposal to the maid, and, if satisfactory, he takes her to his
lodge or tent, and she becomes his spouse. Polygamy being allowed, he can have another if he
desires, or, in fact, as many as he is able to buy. They are usually faithful, though we some-
times see women without noses, cut off for being otherwise. These Indians do not inhabit vil-
lages, plant corn, or herd cattle, but live a wandering life, almost daily in the saddle from their
infancy ; and, at the age of three or four years, will manage their horses on a march unaided.
They seldom remain longer than two or three days in one place, on account of grass or the
scarcity of game. In camp they live in tents made of dressed buffalo-skins, thin cloth, or
bowers of bushes. They usually sleep in their blankets or buffalo-robes on the ground, except
in wet weather, when they make bunks of bark and bushes. They use but little clothing, and,
in fact, in summer some of them go quite naked, while others wear a blanket loosely wrapped
about them, or tied with a thong to their waists, which, when on horseback, falls over the sad-
dle, and partially covers their legs. In winter they wear, in addition to the blanket or buffalo-
robe, buckskin leggings and moccasins, and some a "hickory" or buckskin shirt. I have seen
children in their mother's arms naked, save what covering they got from her blanket, and some-
times entirely exposed to the air when the thermometer was below 30°.
They wear huge ear-rings, and wristlets, breast ornaments of bones and pearl-muscle, and
silver plaies attached to a braid of hair extending from the top of the head to the heels. They
may be seen sometimes in very ridiculous costumes, the cast-off garments of officers, soldiers,
and citizens. To her usual costume, I have seen a woman add the full-dress cap and ornaments
of an infantry sergeant, while her lord stood erect with conscious greatness, grave and digni-
fied, in the undress coat and epaulettes of a dragoon-major, moccasins and spurs ; some in a
wool hat, shirt, and shoes ; others in a vest, leggings, and spurs. They wear their hair long,
loose, and flowing over their shoulders — except the old women, and apparently with them the
older the shorter.
They subsist very poorly on such game as the prairies afford, the condemned provisions of
military posts, roots, prickly pear, and wild fruits in their season. They frequently go three
or four days without eating — not from choice, however, but from necessity. In the spring of
1850, a party of about 200 warriors arrived at Fort Martin Scott, on their way to San Antonio,
to see General Brooke. Col. S , in command of the post, had orders to issue rations only
to chiefs and their families, which was ^\ holly inadequate to their necessities, having fasted three
days. Two horses, which had died several days before in the stables of the garrison, were
found in a ravine, and, cutting off the flesh (in a state of decomposition) from the bones, they pre-
pared it for food for supper and breakfost, and proceeded on their way. They eat a great deal
when they have an opportunity, drink freely of water, and are learning to drink whisky ; many
drink it now, who would not three years ago. The Comanches are large and well formed.
The following statistics of twenty men gives a fair representation of the tribe :
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS.
385
Key-tum-sah .
Kai-se- va-do
Quin-ah-cho-co-pe .
No-vat-sac
Pe-ze-yeo-ko
Wo-va-na-ti-ka
No name .
No name
No name
Age.
Years.
35
40
34
33
25
19
34
25
20
No name 30
Girth.
Height.
Weight.
Inches.
Ft. In.
Pounds.
36
5 lOJ
158
39J
5 10|
202
35
5 115
166
34
5 5i
134
34i
6 6i
125
34J
5 6J
153
35
5 9J
148
37
5 10
163
37J
5 7J
156
36|
5 n
160
Names.
San-ah-co
Ka-kar-ra-way . .
Pe-an-et-same
Se-to-vai-te
Po-ta
No name
No name
No name
No name
No name
Age.
Girth.
Height.
Tears.
Inches.
Ft. In.
40
35J
5 7J
38
38}
5 11
40
401
5 6}
55
37J
5 9
26
36J
5 10
33
37
5 10}
26
38J
5 9i
20
36
5 8}
23
37i
5 6^
25
36}
5 9}
Weight.
Pounds.
143
187
187
152
155
158
153
161
153
160
Key-tum-sah and San-ah-co are chiefs of hands ; that of the former numbering about 300, the
latter 150. Tlie ages above are the supposed ages of the Indians; they never know positively
how old they are. Their hands and arms are comparatively small, and they have not great mus-
cular strength ; the women are short, thick-set, and proportionally stronger and more muscular
than the men. They do all the drudgery, dress their food and skins, cook, pitch tents, take
care of the horses, etc.
Diseases and their treatment. — Eheumatism and diseases of the lungs are the most common.
For the former, thsy take a cold bath morning and evening ; and local pains being severe, they
scarify and cup. Of the latter class of diseases, pneumonia is the most fatal. Pleurisy may
probably rank next, and many die of phthisis. For pneumonia and pleurisy they cup and
scarify the chest, vomit and purge. For phthisis they do nothing when they consider the case
as confirmed, beyond charms and amulets; and by these means I have never heard of a well
authenticated cure. Intermittent and other fevers are not uncommon, though generally of a
mild type. For these they vomit and purge, bathe in cold water, and cup for local pain.
Children die of intermittent, sometimes al.so adults. ErujJtive fevers are often fatal. When
an individual gets smallpox, measles, or any contagious disease, he leaves, or is sent out of
camp. They have no medical treatment. Diseases of the digestive organs are rare, for which
they use purgatives. They contract syphilis and gonorrhoea in their intercourse with their
Mexican neighbors, in the treatment of which they are not very successful ; and I have not dis-
covered that they have any active anti-syphilitic or anti-gonorrhoeal remedies. I have seen
them badly mutilated from the former, and have treated them for both. Cholera visited them
in 1849, and killed many. For this they purge, and their patients die. I have seen two cases
of almost total blindness from gutta serena, and no other diseases of the eye. They pluck their
eyebrows as they do their beard. Notwithstanding their violent exercise on horseback, they
do not seem to be subject to hernia or piles. I have seldom seen wild Indians with sores, car-
buncles, and boils, and do not think they are common.
They pretend to have a certain cure for rattle-snake bite ; but as their patients sometimes
die, I have not taken the trouble to learn all the mystery. They suck the wound, and apply to
it a kind of poultice, made by chewing to a proper consistence a root possessing mucilaginous
properties, previously prepared by some cabalistic power. The patient is made to drink water
in which a fire-coal lias been quenched, as an antidote to the poison of the snake — as fire is
life, and the virus death.
Gun-shot wounds they treat skilfully and with success. Props-na-qua-iss, or Buflalo-hump,
about ten years ago, in a skirmish with a large body of Texans and their Lipan allies, was shot
in three places — one with a rifle-ball through the shoulder, which broke the scapula; his squaw
S. 96 49
386 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Slicked the wound night and morning for many days, and filled it with pith of weeds chewed to
a soft pulp. He recovered with hut slight deformity.
Qua-ha-ra-po-hip, or Antulo2)e-trail or trailer, was one of the great many carried off hy the
very few who escaped being massacred hy the Texans in one of their great fights, in which "no
killed and wounded were left on the ground." He had his leg broken by a rifle-ball; it was
dressed as in the lormer case, and supported in position by means of pieces of bark bouiid on
with dressed deer-skin, which also served for bandage. He recovered witli a straight leg, and,
therefore, the surgery may be called good. They never amputate. Several similar cases I have
known. They heal flesh-wounds by granulation. They mostly die in iiifaucy, though many
live to great age. Medicines affect them promptly.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPH y AND DISEASES OF FOKT irKAVETT.
By Assistant Surgeon S. Wylie Crawford : 1853.
Position. — Fort McKavett is situated on the right bank of the river San Saba, Texas, about
two miles from its source, in latitude 30° 50', longitude 100° 20'; altitude above sea-level 2,060
feet. A small stream arises upon the western side of the hill, and, interposing between the post
and the river, ex])ands into a large lagoon, and finally discharges its waters by a narrow irregu-
lar channel into the river below. The fort, which is about 300 yards from the lagoon, and 500
from the river, is elevated 100 feet or more above its level, and is situated nearly north and
south.
The river flows through several lagoons, or bodies of sluggish water, filled with aquatic plants,
and lies in a valley about a mile in width. The position of the lagoons and course of the river
will be better understood from the accompanying topographical sketch.*
The prevailing winds during the hot months are from the south and southwest, across a dry
and arid country. The period of the greatest rains is in the spring, during the months of Feb-
ruary and March. To this, however, there are exceptions.
Geology, etc. — The country around the post is highly calcareous, consisting of limestone,
partly crystalline and partly magnesian. The face of the country below becomes, hy degrees,
irregularly hilly, until in the vicinity of the head of the river this constitutes its entire aspect.
Stretching from north to south, in general length, these hills continue in broken and inter-
rupted chains, and extend to the west until they reach the "Llano Estacado," or high staked
plains, where, losing their irregularity, they end in a gradual slope which extends to the Rio
Puercos and Piio Grande. Valleys exist here and there between the hills; and broken ravines,
extending for miles, attest the existence of former water-courses. Above the present source of
the river, the valley extends for twent}' miles; and a dry bed continuous with the river shows
evidently that the river at one time arose from the head of the valley.
Geologically speaking, the region consists of the upper secondary, or the substitute for the
chalk formation in this country, and the lower tertiary. Here and there the secondary appears
in small patches, and continues superficial. No evidences of primary formation or of volcanic
rocks exist. These hills have been evidently upheaved by some cause too deep to affect powerfully
the surface, and has, no doubt, occurred while covered by water. The hills have no regularity,
are low, of almost uniform size, and composed entirely of limestone. Towards the southwest,
and in the vicinity of the Llano river, these hills become higher, and of a rougher and more
broken character; the upheaval was more extensive at that point. Without exception, these
hills are barren and stony, and covered towards the south and southwest with thick growths
of cedar.
Tbe magnesian limestone, or dolomite, having the crystalline form of calc: spar, and mixed
with calcareous flints, covers the surface of the hills, and occasionally the granular limestone is
met with in large masses. I have also met with another variety, viz : a shell limestone, com-
o This sketch is necessarily omitted. — C.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEJAS. 387
posed entirely of marine shells, from one to two inches in length. This, in many instances,
is soft and friable, but again hard and compact, and breaking with a shining coarse fracture.
The action of water containing C 0^ upon the magnesian limestone, is everywhere evident;
the carbonate of lime is dissolved, and the carbonate of magnesia left, giving the peculiar honey-
combed appearance to the rocks.
There is no sandstone formation in the vicinity, nor any arenaceous deposits^ that have yet
been discovered, nearer than 35 or 40 miles, where there is a belt running from north to south.
From the regular outline of the hills, there are no faults existing where an opportunity is
presented to examine the succession of strata. The dry beds of former water-courses, and espe-
cially where the stream has passed between the hills and worn away the sides, present the only
means for an examination. From an observation made upon a number of these, the succession
seems to be as follows:
1. Superficial deposits ; magnesian limestone; broken and disintegrated carbonate of lime ;
flints, entire and broken. 2. Boulders of limestone — principally the carbonate. 3. Clay, min-
gled with limestone and flints. 4. Blue and yellow clays ; soft marls. 5. Marls, soft and
hard ; marine shells.
The stratum containing the fossils is the lowest point I have been able to reach. The organic
remains are exclusively marine, and are highly characteristic of the chalk formation, viz:
oolites, scaphites, hamites, as well as ammonites, belemnites, and nautilites ; and also organic
remains in the state of flint. In some situations the tertiary strata appear to rest conformably
on this stratum containing the fossils.
Water (for ages, probably) covered the surface of this whole region. During that period, the
alluvial deposits took place that now form the valleys, aided by the continued washings of the
hills. A gradual subsidence took place, and the waters were drained ofl" by the Gulf of Mexico.
Dry beds of former water-courses are everywhere abundant.
The soil is highly calcareous, and in the valleys and on the flats highly arable, but super-
ficial. The hills are nowhere susceptible of cultivation.
There are three distinct varieties of limestone, and of each of these we shall briefly treat.
They are: 1st. The carbonate of lime ; 2d. The magnesian limestone ; 3d. The shell limestone.
1st. The carbonate of lime. — This is found superficial, and also constituting the great mass
of the hills. It is everywhere abundant, and is by far the most numerous of the varieties of
limestone. It constitutes the majority of the tertiary formation. Occasionally crystals of the
carbonate appear ; among the fossils of the marl, these are very abundant.
2d. The magnesian limestone. — This is also superficial. It consists of carbonate of lime and
carbonate of magnesia, intermixed with silicious grains. It varies in color; sometimes it is
found of a light-grey color, and again approaching to a yellow. It is finely laminated occa-
sionally. There are some bluish and slaty beds containing fossils, that probably belong to this
limestone.
3d. The shell limestone is peculiar. Sometimes it occurs in masses — the shells composing the
entire rock; again, the shells seem to have been deposited after the formation of the rock, and
cover thickly its whole surface. Where exposed to the atmosphere, these rocks are soft and
friable; others, again, solid and compact. It forms no continuous strata, but exists in separate
masses, and is found principally along the water-courses.
The general surface of the country is composed of the above varieties of limestone. Wliat
we infer to be of secondary formation, crops out here and there. It is sometimes superficial.
Along the river is an extensive tract composed of rock marl, and filled with marine fossils, pos.
sessing great interest. The same formation exists on the opposite side of the river, above and
below, and again is found cropping out of the side of one of the hills in the banks of the river.
It is all, doubtless, the same formation, and was deposited at the same period.
The flinty formation is scattered over the whole face of the country, and is found, also, deeply
imbedded. The flints occur in nodular masses of irregular forms — rarely in contact. At the
388 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
head of the Llano river, where tlie side of a large hill had heen washed so as to expose the
strata to the depth of 200 feet or more, I observed a continued layer of flint underlying marl
and marly limestone. In the vicinity of this post, at the base of a large blutf, 1 have again
observed this flinty formation overlying the fossiliferous rocks. Externally, the flints consist
of a white cherty consistency, and are variously colored. They are often imbedded in a tliin
crust of limestone. They are solid, and without crystals — sometimes hollow in the centre, from
the decomi)osition of the organic nucleus. They consist of pure silex, oxide of iron, and lime.
The physical aspect of the country evidently points to the chalk formation, or its substitute,
as its basis. There are no rocky eminences; no broken or precipitous hills; no volcanic or
igneous rocks; everywhere the same gradual slopes — the same regularity of outline.
What we have denominated the secondary formation, crops out, as we have stated, in various
places. From the following description, it will be seen that this is referrible to no period but
the secondary ; though the marine fossils, upon which the inference is based, may be identical
with those of the lower marine formation of the tertiary. Among these fossils, however, the
ammonite and belemnite, with a variety of scaphite, are very abundant. The ammonite is
found from the size of a nummiilite to nine and sometimes twelve inches in diameter. This
chambered mollusc, as well as the belemnite, is highly characteristic of secondary formation.
Both of these shells, with many other varieties, especially the "flagiostoma spinosum," the
"hamites intermedins," the "belemnites mucronatus," and some species of scaphite, constitute
large masses of rock. The cementing matter is a dark-blue marl, occasionally soft and pul-
verulent, but when exposed becoming hard and brittle. The rocks containing these fossils are
found in some instances sujjerficial. Huge boulders lie scattered upon the surface of the ground,
composed entirely of aggregations of these fossils. Covering the surface of the rocks are deep
depressions filled with beautiful crystals of the carbonate of lime, where the organism has
crystallized oiit of the rock. There are but few flints connected with these. The ammonite
exists as the "ammonites catenae," as but few entire shells exist.
The list of these shells appears to be as follows:
1. The ammonites obtusus (most abundant); 2. The ammonites nodosns; 3. The belemnites
mucronatus; 4. The flagiostoma spinosum; 5. The hamites intermedins ; 6. The gryphfea in-
curva, of the oolite system; 7. Many sjiecies of productte; 8. Inoceramus vetustus, of the moun-
tain limestone; 9. Spiruloe; 10. Hamites, surrilites; 11. Reteposaj. There are, also, immense
numbers of other shells of diflerent species.
As has been stated, this fossiliferous bed is the lowest point we have been able to reach.
Subsequent investigation may bring to light new and important facts relative to the geology of
this region. From the premises we have laid down, however, we believe this region to be the
upper secondary, with the substitute for the chalk, as proved by the organic remains it contains,
and upon which the limited tertiary deposits were laid down. Among all the fossils that
abound in this formation, I have as yet discovered no evidence of vegetable life; though I have
no doubt that further investigation will be rewarded by such discovery. My own researches
have not been sufficiently extensive to draw any positive conclusions.
There are no evidences of the existence of any of the precious minerals in this region ; and,
from the description given of it, this may readily be inferred. I would state, however, that in
the vicinity of Fort Croghan, near the Colorado, there are indisputable evidences of the exist-
ence of gold — in fact, I obtained some specimens proving this — as well as indisputable proofs of
the fact that coal', probably in large quantities, is also to be found at that place.
Soil. — The soil of this region is highly calcareous, composed of lime with an admixture of
decomposed vegetable and animal matter. It is in the valleys and along the water-courses only
that the soil in this region is susceptible of cultivation ; there, however, it is rich, and produces
abundantly. No country in the world, probably, is superior to many parts of Texas in advan-
tages afforded for raising stock. The grazing is everywhere abundant. Large plains covered
with rich grasses stretch across the country in every direction, in the southern part; toward
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 389
the north these plains become smaller, and tlie face of the country more undulating ; the hills
dry, stony, and arid ; and it is only in small patches that the ground can he cultivated. The
great scarcity of water renders large tracts, that would otherwise he valuable, utterly uninhab-
itable ; and this fact, joined to tliat of the want of timbered tracts, must prevent the country from
ever being thickly settled. The soil of the bottoms, however, yields abundantly to cultivation.
Near the head of the river is a small tract that was cultivated for the first time by the whites
in 1852. The yield was abundant, especially in leguminous plants, the cucurbitaceaj, the cru-
ciform, and labiate families.
Flora. — Tlie flora of this region is that whicli characterizes the south generally below 30°,
modified by elevation and the character of the soil. There are but few luxuriant vegetable
growths. The hills are scattered over with the stunted live oak (quercus virens) and water oak
(quercus aquatica). To the south, about midway between the headwaters of the San Saba and
Llano, thick growths of cedar cover the hills to the exclusion of all other trees. There is no
cedar in the immediate vicinity of this post. Immense numbers of wild flowers cover the hills
and prairies in every direction, among which are very many entirely unknown to science. I
am now engaged in forming an herbarium, which will embrace the majority of these. As far
as possible, I have ascertained the trees and plants peculiar to this region. There are a vast
many others, however, that grow abundantly on the waters of the Colorado and Guadalupe,
whicli do not appear upon the San Saba. Others, again, occur from the mouth of the San Saba
to a considerable distance up the river, being found on its banks alone, but do not appear at its
head-waters. The trees and plants in the subjoined list all occur in this vicinity, with few ex-
ceptions, which are specified. They have been arranged according to the "natural system" of
classification.
There are some of the trees as well as plants, for which I have not been able to obtain the
botanical title, and among these there is one deserving especial notice. It is called by the
Mexican inhabitants the "mesquite tree." It is peculiar to this latitude, and grows abundantly
in every part of Texas. It varies in height; in this vicinity it is, on an average, from 14 to 16
feet in height, and thinly scattered. It is always found upon flats and in bottoms, and is in-
variably characteristic of rich laud. The mesquite grass, described below, grows uiion tlie same
soils. Cattle are exceedingly fond of it, and soon grow fat if sufi'ered to graze steadily upon it.
The fruit is a slender pod, ripe about July, containing several seeds, and filled with a sweet
mucilaginous pulp. Horses can subsist on this pod. The leaves of the tree are bitter, slightly
astringent, and tonic. Though this tree may be considered diminutive in size, the roots extend
deeper into the earth than any other plant. Instances are known where the root has reached
to the depth of 30 or 40 feet. This tree lives to a great age. It is not adapted to building
purposes, but aifords the very best fire-wood. It admits of a beautiful polish.
The following list has been drawn up under the two heads of— I. Exogenous or Dicotyledo-
nous plants; II. Endogenous or Monocotylcdonous ^ilants.
The 1st is divided into three orders: 1. the Apetalous orders ; 2. the Monopetalous orders;
3. the Polypetalous orders. The 2d is followed by the Cryptogamous or flowerless plants.
I. — Exogenous, or Dicotyledonous Plants.
(a) Apetalous Ordebs.
Order Cupuliferm {oak family).— I. Live oak (que^-cm virens); 2. Post oak (Q. ohtmiloha);
3. Water oak {Q. aquatica); 4. Black-jack {Q. nigra); 5. Black oak {Q. tinctoria); 6. Pin oak
{Q. palusiris); 7. Scrub oak (Q. bannisteri); 8. Red oak (Q. rubra); 9. Overcup oak (Q. mao-u-
carjm); 10. Spanish oak; 11. An oak peculiar to tlie Cross Timbers, and called tlie Texas white oak.
Order Jiujlandacea:, (ivalnut famili/.)—!. Black walnut (Juqlans «i>m), bottoms; 2. Butter-
nut (J. cinerea), on the Guadalupe; 3. Pecan-nut {carya olivceformis).
Order Conifera' (2nne family).— 8nh-ovdei Cupressinece (cypress family).— 1. Cypress (ciipressus
disticha); 2. White cedar (Juniperus).
890 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Order Platanacece {plane-tree family). — 1. Buttonwood, false sycamore (plantanus occiden-
talis); some of the sub-order Blorece.
Order Ulmacea: (elm family). — 1. Wliite elm (ulmus Americana); 2. Slippery-elm, (U. fulva)
oa Guadalupe; 3. U. alata. Huh-order (a) Celtidece. — 1. Hackherry (celtis crassifolia).
Order Salieacece {willow family). — 1. Several varieties.
Order Phytolaccacea' (jwke-iceed family). — 1. Common poke {pTiytolacca decandra).
Order Lauracew (laurel family). — 1. Spice-bush (laurus benzoin).
(6) MoNOPEiALOCs Orders.
Order Oleacece (olive family), — 1. Black ash (fraximis samhucifolia); 2. Swamp-ash (F. juglan-
difolia).
Order Asdepiadacece (milk-tueed family). — 1. Common milk-weed (ascZepi'as corau^!"); 2. Some
of the order Apocynacece (dog-bane family).
Order Valerianaceie (valerian family). — 1. Wild lamb-lettuce (fedia radiata).
Order Composite (sunfoiver family). — Sub-order Tubulijlorce. — 1. Sunflower (helianthus an-
nuus). Sub-order Ligulcefora. — 1. Dandelion (leontodon taraxacum).
Order Labiatce (mint family). — 1. Wild sage (salvia lyrata); and many other species.
(c) POLTPETALOUS ORDERS.
Order Zanfhoxylacece (pricldy-asli family). — 1. Prickly-ash (zantlioxylum fraxineum).
Order Rosacea! (rose family) . — Sub-order Amygdalece (plum family). — 1. Wild cherry (pru-
nus Virginiana), Colorado.
Order Vitacece (vine family) . — 1. Summer grape (vitis (estivalis); other species of vilis.
Order Ranuncidaceoe (crowfoot family). — 1. Celery crowfoot (ranunculus sceleratus).
Order Umhellifcrcc (parsley family). — 1. Parsley (apium petroselinum) .
Order Anacardiaceai (cashew family). — 1. Poison ivy (rkus toxicodendron); 2. sumach (i?.
glabi-a).
Order Sapindacea; (soapberry family). — Sub-order Hippocastancece. — 1. Buckeye, flowers in
April (a'scidus glabra).
Order Leguminosce (pulse family). — 1. Eed-bud (cercis Canadensis).
Order Cucurbitacece (gourd family). — 1. Gourd (cucurbita lagenaria).
Order Cacteai (cactus family) . — 1. Prickly pear (cactus opuntia); many other varieties; cotton
thistle (onopordon acanthium).
II. — EndogenouSj or Monocotyledonous.
Order Naiadaceoi (pond-weed family). — Many varieties of this order.
Order Smilacece (smilax family). — 1. Sarsaparilla (smilax sarsaparilla).
Order Cyperacece (sedge family). — Many varieties of this order.
Order Graminece (grass family). — 1. Mesquite grass; (a)curly mesquite; (b)wire mesquite
(blue when in bloom); (c)rye mesquite (red when in bloom). Also another grass, called the
gamma grass. This grass is the best in all seasons. Cattle are very fond of it, and some fatten
on its use. 2. Blue-eyed grass (sisyrinchium anceps); 3. Broom sage-grass (grows high; covers
the hills in summer; blooms in July) 4. Tula grass (peculiar; culm thick and hard; panicled;
grows in rich bottoms, and near water-courses).
The above list includes most of the trees and plants growing in this vicinity. There are,
however, a great variety I have not been able to trace to any particular order^ and which are,
I have no doubt, new to science. A great many of these are peculiar to this region.
Animals, etc. — This region docs not abound in animals. The sterility of the surrounding
country will account for this, in a measure. There are no herds of wild cattle, nor any game in
large quantities, with the exception of the wild turkey. They consist of — 1. The deer, viz :
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 391
the common deer, the hlack-tailed deer (to the north). 2. The black bear. 3. The buffalo.
4. The antelope. 5. The wolf, viz: the black wolf, the grey wolf, the boyote wolf, the lobos
wolf, (to the south). 6. The peccary, or wild hog. 7. The wild cat, viz: large yellow wild
cat, small wild cat. 8. The fox — red and grey. 9. The mule deer. 10. Prairie dog. 11.
Civet cat, so called — most probably the genet. I have dissected one of the animals, and find
what is called the civet to be contained in two small circular bags lying upon each side of the
genitals. 12. The raccoon. 13. The beaver. 14. The mole. 15. The gopher. 16. Field-
mice — large and small. 17. Red and grey squirrels. 18. Panther, or Mexican lion.
Reptiles. — 1. Lizards, viz : sand lizard, small wood lizard, large grey lizard, chamelion, and
salamander. 2. Snakes, viz: rattle-snake, black snake, moccasin, water-snake, spotted snake,
garden and chicken snake; and also a variety of other species. 3. Toads and frogs (common),
horned toad.
Birds. — 1. The rapacious kind, viz : the buzzard, the common owl, several varieties of the
hawk, the ivy or screech-owl, an owl that inhabits the holes of the prairie-dog. 2. The galli-
naceous or poultry kind, viz: the wild turkey, the quail (common quail, Mexican quail, mount-
ain quail). 3. The pie kind, viz: the raven, the carrion crow. 4. The blackbird. 5. The
field and meadow-lark. 6. The robin. 7. The snipe (several varieties). 8. The plover, (up-
land). 9. The dove. 10. The mocking-bird. 11. The red bird. 12. The humming-bird.
13. The prairie bird, or bird of Paradise. 14. The cow bunting (several varieties). Water-
fowl, viz : 1. The common crane. 2. The heron. 3. The goose. 4. The swan. 5. The
diver. 6. The duck (several varieties.)
Climate, etc. — The climate is mild, but subject to great extremes of temperature in the twen-
ty-four hours, during the winter months, when differences of 30° and 35° occur frequently.
Such changes are always felt acutely by convalescents. The period of the greatest rains is
during the spring months. Through the summer, from the 1st of April until October, the
heats are severe and continued, relaxing the system to a great degree, stimulating the organic
functions, but depressing and sedative to the nervous system generally. From the stimulant
influence upon the liver, and the increased call upon its function, bilious diseases are by far the
most prevalent, and nearly all affections of an inflammatory character.
Miasmatic diseases have been very prevalent during the summer and fall months. The recent
occupation of a new country, the exposure at night in tents, the exposure to the night air, and
the existence of large bodies of standing water in the vicinity, have, no doubt, contributed to the
existence of these affections. The command are now well quartered, and the observations of
another year may show a great difference in the number reported. Tliese fevers were of an ex-
ceedingly aggravated tj'pe. The impression upon the brain and nervous system was universally
severe; the stomach and alimentary canal highly irritable; bilious vomiting and purging a
constant attendant. There was in almost all the cases vigorous reaction. Convalescence was
slow and protracted. The ordinary treatment of intermittents was adopted ; arsenic especially,
joined with quin: sulph: proved highly efficacious.
During the winter months pulmonary diseases have been most frequent. The system becomes
so much relaxed through the summer, that a predisposition to colds and pulmonary affections
is always excited upon the appearance of cold weather. As before observed, the changes of
temperature are often extreme, and the men, when exposed, suffered more from cold than those
living in a more northern latitude. During the whole summer the men were engaged in build-
ing the post; they were exposed all day to the heat of the sun; at night they slept in tents —
many of them upon the ground ; and many of them used alcoholic liquors in excess. Under
these circumstances, it might naturally be expected that diseases would be i^revalent, and fevers
especially so ; and such has been found to be the case. I am inclined to regard these causes as
exciting to i'ebrile diseases to a much greater degree than the presence of any bodies of water in
the vicinity.
The cases of scurvy, reported in the second quarter, were (many of them) convalescents from
392 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
the epidemic that occurred at Fort Crogban, and who were sent to this post as soon as prac-
ticahle.
Tlie scurvy, however, appeared at this place also, in March and April; but, as I discovered
the fedia raiUnta, or wild lamh lettuce, and the j)]iijtolacca decandra, or poke-weed, growing
abundantly in the vicinity, the patients were put upon the use of these vegetables ; the disease
was checked, and soon eradicated. There have been no cases of scurvy reported since.
The cases of dysentery reported, were (most of them) produced by exposure to cold and damp-
ness, and the use of alcoholic drinks. Among the number treated, two only proved fatal.
These will be noticed subsequently. From the regularity enforced upon the soldier — his hours,
his diet, his employment, as well as tlie attention given to the laws of hygeine — it is but rea-
sonable to expect sound and continued health ; but, in our country, the rules of the service im-
pose upon him other and more laborious duties than those belonging to the mere soldier. The
consequence of this is, that he loses any interest he may have had in his profession, which
finally becomes distasteful to him, and he falls, in many instances, the easy victim of the
liquor-sellers that crowd around the frontier posts in this country. It is this that so often crowds
tlie hospitals and fills the sick-list. I regard liquor as the chief source of the diseases reported.
The military barracks consist of five large stone buildings, eighty by twenty feet ; walls ten
feet high. The hospital was completed in July. The command were in quarters by the end
of December.
Indian tribes. — There are no Indian tribes located permanently in this vicinity. During the
summer months, however, a small band of Comanches remained near us, and, from my ob-
servations of their diseases, I believe the following to constitute the principal number of affec-
tions among them : llheumatism (acute and chronic), intermittent fever (rare), syphilis (secon-
dary principally), pneumonia and pulmonary afi'ections. The great majority die from pneumo-
nia and affections of the chest. The lungs are, no doubt, weakened by the universal habit of
drawing tobacco-smoke into them ; it renders the lungs weak and susceptible to disease. Their
low houses are heated to excess, and they lie upon the ground ; and this, often when the body
is relaxed and profusely perspiring. They are indolent, and, with few exceptions, they are
physically weak. I believe the majority of the men die before forty. The women live longer.
Their food is often insufficient. They sometimes live for days upon the fruit of the carya
olivcefonnis , and frequently come into the post in an almost starving condition.
Dk^ths. — There have been five deaths during the year ending March 31, 1853. Of these, one
occurred soon after the patient arrived at the post. He had been ill with scurvy, and, not being
sufficiently recovered, died from the effects of the journey. One, that occurred during the last
quarter of 1852, was from suicide. The two that occurred during the third quarter of 1852
were the result of dysentery. In one, the typhoid elements were chiefly conspicuous^ and there
was but little or no reaction of the system from the commencement of the attack. In the other,
the disease had been checked, but was immediately succeeded by an alarming anasarca, which
only disappeared upon the renewal of the disease under an aggravation of all the symptoms,
and under which the patient at once sank.
The remaining case was that of rapid phthisis pulmonalis, which arose from a neglected
bronchitis ; the patient being then on detached duty, and removed from medical aid.
Births. — There have been five births at the post during the year. Every labor has been
difficult and protracted. Many were first children. With the exception of two cases, the head
presented; but the position was invariably bad. Add to this, that the waters were discharged,
and the uterus always strongly contracting.
In one case of footling presentation, I had difficulty in saving the mother; but I at length
succeeded in making version by the head, and the child was born. It weighed ten pounds.
I would draw attention to the fact, that, in every case of labor here, the placenta has been re-
tained eight, and sometimes twenty-four hours ; and I find, upon inquiry, that this is frequently
the case in this country. The uterus relaxes after labor, and, unless carefully watched, danger-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS. 393
Oils hemorrhage may occur. By careful handaging, and exciting the uterus hy frictions, cold
water, and the internal use of ergot in small doses, frequently rei)eated, I have generally suc-
ceeded in preventing inordinate hemorrhage, and in delivering the placenta in the course of
eight or fourteen hours.
• MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT l-ERRETT.
By Assistant Surgeon W. W. Anderson : 1852.
' This new post, on the North fork of the Llano river, is situated only a few hundred yards
below the first jjermanent water of this stream, which is a large pond or 2)ool having an eleva-
tion of thirteen hundred and twenty feet above the level of the sea, and is in north latitude 30°
28', and west longitude 100° 21'. These items have been furnished me by Lieutenant Colonel
J. E. Johnston, corps of topographical engineers, who some time ago made a tour through, and
examined different points of, this region of country.
There are several pools of water about a mile above the camp ; but these, I have been informed
by persons who appeared to be familiar with the country, become perfectly dry during seasons
of long-continued drought. The first permanent pool lies on the east side of a high hill, which
is, on this side, exceedingly steep and craggy, in several places having a perpendicular ascent
of tliirty or forty feet, and in such places presents a naked surface of limestone rock. The height
of the hill is about two hundred and fifty feet, and it rises by a succession of precipices with
intermediate spaces of rapid slope, which give it, at a little distance, the appearance of having
been artificially shaped into terraces. There is sufficient soil on the slopes, and here and there
among the crevices of the rocks, for a scrubby growth of cedar, cactus, weeds, and some of the
flowering plants of the country. The several strata of limestone lie very nearly horizontally,
and differ considerably in hardness; the hardest, principally, I think, contains a good deal of
silica embedded in it in small lumps. The pond at the foot of the hill is about three hundred
yards long by sixty or eighty broad, and has no visible source or outlet, except after some days
of rain, at which times springs gush out from the holes and crevices of the flat stratum of lime-
stone rock forming the bottom of the pond at its head. The water has always a turbid appear-
ance. About a hundred yards below the lower end of this pond the water again appears in a
small pool, from which it flows in a considerable clear stream, and docs not sink any more
under ground, though it continues to form popls at short intervals, of various dimensions, and
from three to twelve or fifteen feet in depth. The course of the river for several miles is north-
easterly.
The i)Ost is being built upon a plain, some two hundred yards from the river, and on the east
or southeast side. This plain extends in an almost uninterrupted level, perhaps a mile, down
the river, and is from a hundred yards to a quarter of a mile in widtl\, and bordered on one
side by steep rocky hills. On the opposite side, about ten feet below this plain, and between
it and tlie river, is another rough uneven flat, covered with smooth rounded stones — some flint,
but most of them limestone. This flat is about one hundred and fifty yards wide at the post,
and extends at least three-quarters of a mile down the river, but it becomes much narrower
below, and the descent to it from the plain is not nearly so abrupt as it is at the upper part.
During seasons of heavy and continued rain the flat is overflowed, as I have been told by a
citizen of Fredericksburg, who said he liad seen it under water; and there are evident traces of
its occasional submersion, such as drift-wood and brush lodged among the green branches of
trees growing on it ; and the smooth rounded character of the stones arises, undoubtedly, from
the action of water upon them. The plain upon which the post is located is covered with cedar
thickets and clumps of live oak, with more open sj^aces here and there, having upon them a
scattered growth of small mesquite. A montli ago these open patches were literally covered
with innumerable flowers of various kinds and colors, some of them very pretty. A bed of
S. 9ti 50
894 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
yellow clay has been found, a few feet below the surface of the plain, mixed with a good deal of
limestone and flint-gravel.
The water of the river is clear and cool, hnt holds in solution quite an appreciable amount of
the carbonate of lime — jjcrhaps as much as water, under ordinary circumstances, is capable of
dissolving. Upon the surface of the pools, where there is little or no current, a thick scum of
grcenisli moss ibrms several inches in thickness. The fibres of it are small, long, and tliickly
interlaced, so that a portion of it, when dry, looks very mucli like a piece of cotton wadding.
The growth of this moss begins at the bottom of the water, where it is a brownish slimy mass
with the sediment tliere; tlie specific gravity of this becoming in due time less than that of the
water, it rises and floats on tlie surface, ex[)ands, spreads out its fibres, and finally assumes a
yellowish-green hue. I cannot say, decidedly, whether this moss imparts any deleterious prop-
erties to the water or not; when disturbed, it gives off' an offensive smell. Numerous bubbles
of gas are set free when the sediment at the bottom is stirred up or loosened, and in some of the
pools this gas has a decided odor of sulphuretted hydrogen. The common yellow water-lily
also grows abundantly in the pools.
Tlie surface of the surrounding country is extremely hilly and broken. The hills are all
more or less stony, with rougli cliffs jutting out here and there along tlieir sides. Sometimes
a bare level tract of rock is seen partly surrounding a liill, and frequently twelve or fifteen feet
wide. Upon the top of a bill just back of the post, I have observed one such tract forming a
complete circle, with a low mound of earth in the centre, upon which are cedar trees, slirubs,
and flowering plants. The liills are frequently intersected by deep precipitous ravines, and the
large valleys leading to tlie river are generally of the same rough precipitous character, being
in many places impassable even to a footman. A few small oyster-shells are found on the tops
of tlie liills mixed with the rock.
The cedar is almost tlie only tree which grows off from the river, and some of the hills and
dry valleys are covered with dense thickets of it. The pecan, one species of oak — the chestnut
oak, I tliink — hackberry, elm, and live oak grow along the borders of the river, and are rarely
found except in the neighborhood of a jjermanent j^ool or running stream. They seldom grow
to a large size, and are mostly crooked and knotty, and afford but indiflerent timber for building
purposes.
The hills approach the river very closely, and in no place, within three or four miles of the
post, is the river-bottom much more than a quarter of a mile wide. This bottom, or strip of
ricli soil, generally lies only on one side of the river, the otlier bank being much higher and
steeper, presenting a })erpendicular bluff varying in height from ten to forty or fifty feet. The
soil of this narrow bottom is, without doubt, very fertile, and it is more or less free from the
rocks and stones wiiicli are thickly strewed over tlie surface of tiie groiuid elsewhere; but there
is so large a proportion of lime in it, that small plants are very soon affected by a drought ; the
hardy weeds of the country even droop and wither under the scorching sun after a few weeks of
dry weather.
There are many varieties of flowering plants and shrubs, some of which are new to me; and
I regret that my knowledge of botany is too imperfect for me to attempt to classify them, or to
give their proper botanical names.
One of the most beautiful and fragrant of the flowering shrubs is called by the Mexicans
frijoli or frioVio. It is an evergreen, having a bean-shaped blue flower in clusters, and its seed
is a red bean, contained in a hard round or cylindrical undivided pod. I have been told by a
Mexican guide, employed at Fort Merrill, that the Indians make an intoxicating liquor out of
the beans before they become ripe and hard.
Tiiere are several varieties of cactus, one of which, the petalunja, bears a very pleasant fruit,
which has the taste of a fully-ripe strawberry, with a slight pine-apple flavor.
The wild rye and oats are almost the only species of the grass order which are to be found.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS, 395
and there is no great abimdance of them. Of such plants as in common language are called
grasses, scarcely a spear is to be seen.
Of wild beasts, and different kinds of mammalia, there are several species; but none exist in
large numliers. The pantlier, leopard, wild and tiger cat, beaver, common red deer, and ante-
lope, are occasionally seen. The black bear and wild hog (or peccary) are met with a little more
frequently. There are two species of the hare, and the common (cat or grey) squirrel. The
large hare (or jackass rabbit) is rather scarce ; the common hare and squirrel are more abund-
ant. The skunk (or polecat), rat, mouse, and bat, are also found.
Of birds, there are several varieties of the hawk, owl, crane, sparrow, and fly-catcher;
one species of the eagle, the buzzard, common crow (or raven), the wild turkey, two species of
quail, the dove, wren, rain-crow, red bird, and chapparal cock (or paisano). The last is a
solitary bird, living in the thickets of small brushwood, and is not often seen. It runs very
swiftly, but flies slowly, and only for a short distance; and, in open ground, might, I think, be
easily captured by a dog. The crow has several notes, or cries, difiierent from those of the same
bird of the Atlantic States, and diff"ers from it in other respects. It seems to approach, in its
liabits, more nearly to the buzzard tribe; is frequently seen with them, and never in large
flocks. It also ascends to considerable elevations by wheeling in rapid circles, with motionless,
outstretched wings, in a manner similar to the buzzard. Wild turkeys are quite abundant;
but neither of the two kinds of quail is often met witli. The humming-bird, and chuck-will's
widow, besides two other species of night birds, which I have never been able to see, ajipear
during the spring and summer. During the winter, numbers of robins are found among the
cedar thickets, upon the berries of which they feed chiefly. The river and ponds are also,
during the same season, frequented by several varieties of the duck — in considerable numbers,
I believe.
Of reptiles and insects, there are numerous kinds: Snakes, lizards, terrapins, tarantulas, scor-
pions, centiijedes, spiders, beetles^ bugs, flies, mosquitoes, fleas, grasslioppers, bees, &c.
Grasshoppers, bugs, and flies swarm in immense numbers. The gardens have suflered serious
injury from the ravages of the grasshoppers and several kinds of worms.
Of fish, there are not many kinds: those which I have observed are the bass, perch, cat,
sucker, gar, and minnow.
The climate, during most of the time that I have been here, has been mild and pleasant.
March was rather a disagreeable month; there were frequent mists, with damp, chilly north
winds. During the remainder of the spring, and the summer so far, the air has continued dry,
except for a few days after a spell of rainy weather. The thermometer has seldom risen higher
than 90 or 95° in the shade; and, during the day, there has been usually a sufficient breeze
stirring to moderate considerably the sensible efl'ect of the temperature upon the body. The
nights have been quite cool, and without much dampness generally. Kain has been in mod-
erate quantities, and tolerably frequent, so that there has been no long-continued season either
of dry or of wet weather. I have been very much disappointed with regard to the health of
the place. Dr. Wills, who was emjiloyed as medical officer to a company of Te.xas volunteers,
and was stationed with it last summer some thirty miles below this point, gave (juite a glowing
account of the health of the country. He stated that there had been scarcely a case of sickness
during the whole time (several months) that the company was at that place. There have
been a number of cases at this post, during the last two months, of intermittent fever and
diarrhoea, and a few cases of dysentery and mild remittent fever. I cannot discover that there
is any undoubted source of malarious or miasmatic effluvia. The ponds are all filled with fresh
cool water, which is constantly flowing to and from them, with the exception of the head pond,
which has none of the moss upon it; and there has not been, at any time, sufficient rain to
form standing pools in the hollows among the hills. The wind prevails almost constantly
from the southeast, in which direction not one drop of water can be found nearer than the South
fork, some eight miles ofl'; and the decay of the shrubs, weeds, cactus, &c., growing upon the
396 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
hills and in the valleys, is not of that rapid character which is usually considered as necessary
to tlie production of miasma. Tlicy witlipr and die, losing all their watery parts by evapora-
tion, and the woody portion is all that remains to i'all and decay upon the ground. It may be
that the weeds and moss growing in the pools, although they are supplied by a constant stream
of fresh water, are a source of disease, either ])y giving rise to a miasma from the decomposi-
tion of decaying portions, or by diffusing tlirough the water some deleterious properties from
their living parts. A fact, somewhat in favor of this opinion, is as follows:
Three men were detailed as gardeners early in May, and ordered to remain in the gardens at
night after working in them during the day. The gardens are situated on the west side of the
head pond, opposite to the high rocky blulF which I have described. One of these men had
had several attacks of intermittent fever before going to the gardens, and continued to be sub-
ject to them for about a fortnight afterwards, when the rains caused a fresh cool spring of clear
water to gush out of the rocks at the head of the pond. The three then used the water from
this spring entirely, and the man who had been subject to the ague has, since that time, been
no more troiabled with it. The other two have been free from all fevers since they first went
to the gardens. I have been attacked with intermittent fever twice during the last five or six
weeks, although I escaped entirely at Fort Merrill, where, I think, I exposed myself much
more than I have done here, in hunting and fishing, at all seasons and times of the day.
The position of the post is rather low, and tliough the nights cannot generally be considered
damp, still I think that the atmosphere would be more dry, and there would, undoubtedly, be
a freer circulation at all times of the southeast wind, at a little greater elevation. The stony,
rough character of the hills, and distance from water, I believe, were the chief objections to the
selection of a more elevated position. The climate, mode of life, diet, &c., have also some share
as piedisposing and exciting causes of disease. At least one-half of the command is composed
of recruits lately arrived, a large majority of whom, I have no doubt, are unaccustomed to this
climate.
A large number of the men have been on extra duty, engaged in hard labor, during which
they have been necessarily exposed to the burning rays of the sun for several hours of tlie day.
After the fatigue of the day, they retire to sleep with weary bodies, and under garments more or
less saturated with perspiration ; which conditions render them peculiarly liable to be affected
by changes of temjjerature — and there is a decided difference between the days and nights.
For several hours before sunrise it is very cool, sufficiently so to render a blanket necessary for
comfort. A ijlentiful supply of fresh beef, and a considerable quantity of vegetables from the
gardens, have been furnished to the companies, but not enough of the latter to render the diet
suitable to the climate, in my opinion ; and therefore I think the diet may be regarded as hav-
ing been, in some measure, a predisposing cause of inflammatory and febrile diseases.
The Indians, as far as I have been able to ascertain, enjoy good health during the warm sea-
sons, and are then subject to but few diseases. On my arrival here, in March, I learned from
some of the chiefs of the Lipans, who live more in the vicinity of the post and visit it more fre-
quently than any other tribe, that during the winter they are subject to a disease which is quite
serious and fatal among them. They are attacked with cough and spitting of blood, and fre-
quently die in a few days. From their accounts, I suspect the disease to be pneumonia. There
are no white settlements between here and Fredericksburg, or in any direction, that I am aware
of, within eighty or a hundred miles, with the exception of military posts.
About a month or six weeks ago, a whisky-dealer from Fredericksburg squatted within two
or three miles of us, and has disturbed very much the quiet, orderly condition of the jiost, by
retailing liquor to the soldiers; and not a few of the cases of sickness may be traced to an ex-
cess in drinking since his arrival. The traffic has also been extended to the Indians, and num-
bers of them have been seen around the post and along the road leading to the whisky-shanty
in almost every stage of intoxication. If continued, this state of things may lead to some un-
pleasant or fatal consequences ; and there is no law in the State by which this nefarious traffic
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS.
397
can be stopijecl. The Indians were of the Lipan tribe, who, as I have mentioned before, visit
the post in small parties every now and then, and have always shown a desire to keep upon
friendly terms. I have not heard of any marauding excursion having been made by any party
of them upon the settlements since our arrival here.
DISEASES.
TABLE EXHIBITING THE EATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
RATIO PER 1,000 or MEAN STRENSTH.
Treated.
Died.
First quarter. . .
6,233
6,560
6,277
6,225
4,229
5,626
6,990
6.486
57
89
24
177
678
857
1,113
1,041
9
Second quarter. .
13.5
3.8
Fourth Quarter. - ..... -
28.4
Annual ratio ....-.---..
6,324
23,331
347
3,689
54.8
23,051
174
3,645
27.5
The preceding table, compiled, as usual, from the general abstract for this region, shows
that the relative proportion of cases of disease to the number of officers and enlisted men was
3.68 to 1; and that the corresponding ratio of deaths was 1 in 18.22, or 5.4 per cent. It fol-
lows, from the same data, that the proportion of deaths to cases was 1 to 67.23, or 1.48 per
cent. Exclusive of cholera, the proportion of deaths to aggregate mean strength was 1 to
36.34, or 2.7 per cent. ; and to cases of sickness, 1 to 132.48, or 0.75 per cent.
FEVERS.
Quarters ..... ----
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOCRTH.
TEAR.
o
§
*~ s>
Strength
t
6,233 1 6,560
1
6,277
6,225
6,324
It
1
n
i i
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases. 1 Deaiiis.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deatlis.
^ o
a
2
1
434
475
43
38
3
2
28
680
904
80
62
2
2
1
1
109
1375
1353
29
314
1
1
1
30
1264
1260
63
93
8
1
1
2
168
3753
3992
215
507
14
1
2
1
4
1
in 2 OR
Febris continua communis
Fehris intermitteus qiiotitUana
Febris intermittens tertiana .
Febris intermittens quartana.
Febris remittcns ..........
1 in 84
1 in 3753
in 3992
Oin 215
lin 127
26
593
631
34
81
2 lin 7
2
Febris typhus icterodes
Oin 1 0.1
Total
996
2
1756
1
4
3181
2
2719
1
8652
9
1 in 961 l.tfia
398
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
DISEASES OF TUE ORGANS CONNECTED -n-ITn THE DIGESTI\T; SYSTEM.
FIRST.
SKCOND.
THIRD.
FOORTlf.
O
■5
t3 •
o a
o
o.
2
O
s .
t a
Strength
6,233
6,560
6,277
6,225
6,324
S S
•So
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Dcalhs.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cholera Asiatica
439
138
58
10
12
10
100
89
5
10
5
3
1
3
84
731
142
26
3
6
5
243
166
35
13
1
1
1
2
598
208
16
5
8
2
213
164
2
3
1
1
1
196
688
265
51
11
5
3
121
99
133
3
5
4
2
1
2
280
2456
753
151
29
31
20
677
518
173
28
14
9
4
2
8
1 in 1.6
lin 87
1 in 54
1 in 17
1 in 7
Oin 31
1 in 10
in 677
1 in 65
Diarrhoea. . , .,.-
388
119
Dysenturia chronica
24
4 5
5
Hepatitis chronica ...___
3
Obstipatio --- --_ ---
107
All other diseases of this sys-
82
Total *.
856
27
1406
53
1214
8
1439
150 491. S
238
1 in 20.6
777
Exclusive of cholera -__
1
4635
65
lin 71
733
1
It will be perceived, from the foregoing table, tli.at cholera has prevailed to some extent on
this frontier. The disease appears to have been confined to the 8th infantry, on its march to
San Antonio from New Orleans; to the troops encamped at or near San Antonio, and particu-
larly to the 3d infantry at Camp Salado. The disease made its appearance in some of the vil-
lages between San Antonio and Fort Inge, but did not reach that post, nor does it seem to have
affected the troops at any of the forts proper on this frontier. The following history of this
epidemic, as it affected the 8th infantry, is from the oflficial report of Surgeon Madison Mills,
for the quarter ending December 31, 1848:
"The 8th regiment of infantry left Jefferson Barracks on the 24th of November, and reached
New Orleans on the 1st of December; remained there under slieds till the r2t]i of the same
month, when it embarked on steamships (New Orleans and Telegraph) for Lavacca, Texas,
where it arrived on the 15th. The troops were not all disembarked till the 19th. A camp
was established one mile and a half from Lavacca, on the borders of a brackish bayou. On
the 21st, the right wing was advanced twelve miles, for better water, wood, and shelter. On
the night of the 21st, the cholera showed itself in both camps; and by the morning of the 22d,
had attacked more than one-eighth of both commands. I had no assistant; and the command-
ing officer having sent in for medical aid, the sick at Lavacca were put under charge of Drs.
Johnson and Dallam, and I was ordered to the camp, twelve miles distant. The disease con-
tinued with great violence during the 22d, 23d, 24tli, and 25th, when it began to abate ; by the
30th, it had entirely subsided. The mortality has been frightful. There liave been 133 deaths
out of 196 cases. The symptoms were more like those produced by an over-dose of tartrate of
antimony than anything I can compare them to. I observed one symptom which I have not
seen mentioned by any writer on this subject — that is, swelling, and in some cases paralysis of
the tongue. This symptom appeared in a great many cases. The usual premonitory symptom
(diarrhoea) did not show itself generally as a first symptom in those attacked during the first 48
hours ; after this, it was usually observed first, though not in all cases. On its first appear-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS, 399
ance, the order of symptoms was generally as follows : Severe cramps in the stomach ; cold-
ness of the surface ; vomiting ; cramps in the extremities ; and diarrhcea last. Various modes
of treatment were tried — as calomel, camphor, and opium; calomel and Cayenne pepper and
opium ; assafoctida, opium, and quinine in various combinations, with sinapisms and vesications.
Injections of tinct: assafuetidse and tinct: opii et camphorje ; and in the latter stages, brandy and
quinine, in liberal doses ; all of which appeared of little benefit. The only thing that appeared
to do much good, was external warmth. From the unfavorable circumstances under which we
were placed, it was difficult to apply this remedy. The command at Lavacca was in tents till
the 23d, exposed to one of the severest ''nwthers" known in Texas, with but little wood, and
nothing to break the force of the winds which swept over the prairie most furiously. The other
command was in tents throughout the whole prevalence of the disease. From the morning of
the 22d to the evening of the 24rth, the tents were covered with sleet, and the whole country
was enveloped in a dense fog. From the first landing of the troops till the breaking out of the
epidemic, an influenza prevailed generally in the regiment ; few escaped it, though there were
not many who came under treatment."
The troops which thus terribly suffered arrived at Camp Worth, in the immediate vicinity
of San Antonio, on the — day of February, 1849. The time when this disease appeared among
the citizens of San Antonio is not stated in the official records ; though on the Tth of May,
Surgeon J. J. B. Wright, in reporting the death of General Worth by this disease, mentions
its having been prevalent there since the 11th of April; and adds: "This town suffered in an
extraordinary degree from the cholera which prevailed in 1833. Its ravages are fresh in the
recollection of the Mexican portion of the population, a great majority of whom fled from the
place at its approach. A large proportion of those whose courage permitted them to remain^ or
whose inability prevented their leaving, have become victims of the epidemic."
The appearance and cour.so of this epidemic at the encampment of the 3d regiment of infan-
try, are fully described in the following letter from Assistant Surgeon L. H. Stone to the Sur-
geon General:
"Camp Sal.^do, near Sak Antonio, May 25, 1849.
"Sir: I have the honor to report that this command, composed of six companies of the 3d
infantry, has been visited the present month by cholera, with nearly the usual results of that
disease.
" The first case occurred on the first day of this month. The formal onset of the disease was
preceded some twenty hours by a diarrhcea, when profuse vomiting and purging of the charac-
teristic discharge (having the appearance of water in which rice has been washed) commenced,
attended by painful cramps in the stomach, calves of the legs, thighs, and arms — especially the
flexor muscles of the fore-arms. The eyes had a dull, watery, and muddy appearance, with a
contracted, ill-defined pupil. The features became sharpened, and the entire bodj- was blue,
shrunken, shrivelled, cold, and clammy. The hands and fingers shrunken and sodden. Tlie
tongue gave to the finger a cold and disagreeable sensation. Tlie patient complained of severe
pain in the stomach, loins, and limbs; of insatiable thirst ; and a burning heat in the stomach,
and distressing heat of the surface of the body ; although to the liand it had the cold feeling of
a dead body.
" This case will serve as a general type of the cases which followed, although many diflered
from it in many particulars. In some, the perspiration was more profuse ; in otliers, the vomit-
ing ; and in others, the purging; but in all, the strife seemed to be to force the luatery jyortion
of the blood from the body; and in this, every organ, except the kidneys, capable of throwing it
out, was actively employed. There was in this case an entire suppression of urine for thirty-
six hours, commencing with the attack.
"The treatment ordered was: internally, one grain of calomel, one of ojiium, and one of ace-
tate of lead, repeated every hour. Assafietida was also given freely. Externally, a large warm
400 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
sinapism was applied to the cpigastriiini, and diligent friction to the limbs with the palm of the
hand. The patient was allowed to drink small (|niintities of cold water frequently.
" The pulse at the wrist was at no time impercejitible, though, for about two hours, it required
considerable care to detect it.
"On the third day the patient was so far recovered as to be able to walk about the door of the
hospital.
" On the evening of that day, the stream on which the camp is situated suddenly rose about
twenty feet, and flooded the camp. Most of the command were obliged to swim in escaping
from cam]) to the higher ground on the prairie. All were wet, and lay all night on the prairie,
witluiut tents or other covering, during a heavy rain. The next day was one of great fatigue
for the men. On the second day after, three cases of cholera occurred; on the third, five ; on the
fourth, eight; and so on. The last case oocurred on the 15th.
" Among the enlisted men there were seventy-five cases, of which twenty-eight died, and forty-
seven recovered. No officer had the disease, although most of them, and nearly every soldier in
the command, were more or less affected by the epidemic condition. Probably one-half of those
who escaped an attack would have had the disease but for prompt treatment, as scarcely a man
escaped an attack of diarrhoea during the prevalence of the disease.
"Most of the cases presented the usual symptoms, viz: vomiting, purging, cramps, profuse
perspiration, and collapse. Some few, however, differed in one or more particulars. Two
cases occurred in which there was no diarrhoea ; and in these the stage of collapse was of shorter
duration than in most of the others, and the perspiration soon became warm.
"In two, the cramps were attended with violent general convulsions, so as to require the
united strength of four or five men to hold the patient. Both of these patients were temperate,
vigorous, and, previously, healthy men.
"The suppression of urine was a uniform symptom. The treatment jjursued in the disease has
been pretty uniform, except that, in a portion of the cases, it has been commenced by a large
dose (twenty or thirty grains) of calomel, and a full dose (one or two grains) of opium. It has
consisted of cupping to the epigastrium ; one grain of opium, one of camphor, and one of acetate
of lead, every hour or half hour, according to the urgency of the vomiting and purging. In
those cases in which the calomel was not given at first, one grain of that article has usually
taken the place of the camphor.
"Dry rubbing with the palm of the hand over the seat of the cramps was used, in all cases with
great apparent benefit.
"With regard to the effect of ])articular articles upon particular symptoms, it differed very
much in different cases. Tlie vomiting was controlled, in many, by creosote. I usiuilly gave
two drops of that article, with a little cinnamon-water, in half an ounce of thick mucilage of gum-
Arabic. In other cases, where the vomiting was obstinate and long continued, it has been
frequently checked (greatly to the relief of the patient) by a simple soda-jiowder ; besides re-
lieving the vomiting, this is extremely agreeable to the patient, and allays, better than anything
else, the tormenting thirst.
" In some few cases the cramps have apparently been relieved by assafcetida ; but in most cases
it has done little good. But the cramps in the stomach have in many cases been quickly relieved
by cups applied to the epigastrium.
"Stimulants, such as brandy, ammonia, &c., I have never seen do any good, either in jirevent-
ing the collapse, or in rousing the patient while in that state. I have used them faithfully and
freely, and cannot call to mind one case in which I was satisfied that any good resulted from
their use.
" In regard to some points connected with the prognosis, my observations do not accord with
the generally received notions. The vomiting of bile, and the reappearance of bile in the dis-
charges from the bowels, have frequently occurred in cases which terminated fatally.
"A majority of the fatal cases have lived forty-eight hours; and but three or four have died
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS.
401
within twenty-four hours after the attack. The first case, which occurred on the 1st inst., died
on the 7th, with symptoms of effusion into the ventricles of the brain, having relapsed after the
exposure on the od and 4th inst.
"Since the 15th a few cases of diarrhoea have occurred, attended with cramps in the stomach
and lirahs."
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM.
Quarters .
Strength .
Broncliitis acuta et chronica..
Catarrhus
Phthisis pulmonalis
Pleuritis
Pneumonia
All other diseases of this system
Total -
Elic'umatismus
6,233
Cases. I Deaths.
88
330
6
17
33
19
493
208
l^.'SCO
6,277
6,225
Cases. Deaths.
25
175
6
9
14
22
251
189
Cases. Deaths. I Cases. Deaths.
32
119
3
19
3
17
193
152
38
335
10
21
19
16
439
183
6,324
Cases. Deaths.
183
959
25
66
69
74
1376
732
12
7
4
in
in
lin
in
1 in
1 in
183
959
2
66
10
18
23
1 in 60
lin 146
28
151
3.9
10
11
11.7
217
115
Scorbutus. — A glance at the general abstract for this frontier will show that the troops, like
those stationed on the southern, or Eio Grande frontier, have suffered from scurvy to a very
great degree. Assistant Surgeon Crawford, in reporting upon this disease as it appeared at
Fort Croghan in 1852, observes that "the aifection of the mouth and muscles constituted its
chief feature. The tendons of the vasti were exceedingly rigid ; the popliteal space occupied by
a hard, large tumor, of a bluish-black color. Often the thigh was black and hard, and tumors
would appear in the calves of the legs." Having been disappointed in the effects of citric acid,
Assistant Surgeon Crawford came to the conclusion, that as the maguey plant had been highly
spoken of, the same virtues might be found iu a greater or less degree in the whole family of
the cacti; and he was therefore induced to try the common prickly jiear (cactus opuntia), which
was abundant near the fort. The result was highly satisfactory. It was prepared "by remov-
ing the thin epidermis from the thick succulent leaves, and, after cutting them into slices,
macerating them in water. This furnished a thick solution, which was given as a drink to the
patients."
Assistant Surgeon Anderson writes very favorably of the nitrate of potash in the treatment
of scurvy, as it affected the command ?it Fort Terrett.
s. 96-
-51
ABSTKACTS
PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
OCCUEKING AMONG THE TKOOPS
IN TEXAS.
404
REPORT. ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
FIRST QUARTER.
AOOB
8TRE
1S49.
1850. 1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
SOTU.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Meas strksoth
578.
6K.
917.
757.
819.
1,476.
5,179.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Tiilal
cases.
Total
died.
!
I Febris eontlnua communis..
. Fehris inter, quoiidiana....
: Fehris iniennittiMis tertiana.
Febris intcnnittcns quartana
4
13
7
8
1
3
17
21
7
9
40
7
12
9
3
72
75
14
157
114
38
279
266
2
46
33
1
3
•11
as
1
2
6
15
3
4 1
1
4
I
1
1
1
1
60
567
172
11
4
1
Eruptive fevers i
1
1
Cholera Asiatica
60
120
12
35
2
35
87
9
2
106
49
7
1
2
83
17
2
53
36
2
1
1
2
118
49
4
2
n
2
Diseases of the organs
connected with tlie di-
gestive system.
1 1
3
2
1
V"
■
6
15
19
17
1
1
1
2
4
24
10
42
11
33
IS
45
7
5
a
26
1
3
2
1
1
1
23
15
4
71
3
4
7
1
2
4
3
37
31
4
111
1
4
.3
4
7
2
2
7
1
88
123
54
312
6
26
14
9
30
16
6
8
10
28
1
16
12
11
AH other diseases
1 Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
2
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
i Phthi-sis pulmonalis
' Pleuriiis
10
4
1
1
7
2
2
]
2
2
11
3
3 1
' Delirium tremens
.•>
3
1
Disease!) of the brain and
Epilepsia
1
1
nervous system.
I
6
1
1
2
3
3
3
1
1
11
4
1
6 1
5 i
4
Diseases of the urinarj-
2
5
3
8
3
1
4
1
2
2
and genital organs.
Syphihs consecutiva
1
Diseases of the serous^
2
2
2
Diseases of the fibrous &
nmsculur structures.
16
1
42
52 1
19
1
26 1 -
56
211
1
176
103
18
3
214
17
7
2
61
40
45
24
10
12
42
20
4
19
60
84
152
2
f
Abscesses and ulcere — {
[
1
rblegmon ct abscessus
Ulcus d
19
U
2
1
24
5
■ 3
43
14
3
30
22
4
23
4
4
as
16
■ 4
38
36
1
2
65
4
Amputatio
Contu^io
39
36
4
1
2
ao
8
g
21
2
1
......
29
2
1
1
' 1
1
Wounds and injuries
1 '
6
4
lU
1
1
5
3
5
3
9
7
1
5
2
2
8
5
......
20
18
13
7
1
7
1
4 1
5 ;
1
' Vulnus sclopeticum
3
3 1,2
4 ! 1 2
2
2
3
2
19
7
1
4
18
20
44
1
Ehrict.is t
Z
1
7 3
4 3
2
1 ::;;:.
4
12
Mieccllancous
2
8
8
1 1 1 1
15 5
29 14
3
1
^ t
12
23
15 , i 31 j 16 1 1
2
Total
436 1 44
467 1 6
680 6 1 340 1 4
535
1,060
9
3,578
78
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS.
AMONG l-HE TROOrS AT POSTS IN TEXAS— SOUTHERN FRONTIEU.
405
SECOND QUARTER.
AOGI
SIR
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASEri.
Years
lSt9. 1850. 1851. 1852.
1853.
1854.
£>'GTH.
Mkas strekoth
389.
502.
78a.
792.
648.
918.
4,031.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
[ 1
Cases.! Died. iCases
Died. Cases. Died. Cases
1 1
Died. jCases.: Died
Cases
. Died. Tota
cases
Total
. died.
1
■ Febris continua communis
Fehris inter, quotidiana ...
Febris interniitlens lertiana
Febris intermittens quartans
1 6 ". 6
1 !
13
156
186
16
19
1
25
303
346
18
128
28
Fevers
4
8
' 11
1 16
13
1 45
57
32
2
38
6
1
3
60
59
3
14
1
1
16
38
3
2
1 7
j Febris typhus
hi-
1
EnjpUve fevers
5
.... 1
2
7
Varioloid
1 1"
14
57
13
9
1 3
2
109
16
433
194
16
2
8
1
120
120
26
104
2
22
11
7
50
16
6
12
12
43
1
8
13
9
1
1
1
9
13
2
4
4<S
2
1
25
45
46
5
1
1 [ S
1 9B
M 1 1
11 1 1 a i o
Diseases of tbe organs
1
1
1
1
1
i 1
! 2
1
14
' 1 "
connected with the di-
Hepatitis acuta
Hepatitis chronica
4
1
' 1
i
i 1
gestive system.
Obstipatio
7
21
1
13
7
16
5
23
1
3
nn
17
42
27
6
12
1
■
All other diseases
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
Catarrhus
Phthisis pulmonalis
1
i ^'
1 «
30
1
1 28
2
10
7
4
17
1
3
S
2
I
Diseases of the respira-.
4
3
1
la
1
6
3
2
13
3
1
1
6
1
1
tory system.
.1
I
AJl other diseases
1
12
3
2
4
6
2
2
5
: 1
Cephalalgia
4
a
S
I
nervous system.
Epilepsia
3
3
2
1
."i ■■
5
1
\
2 1
1
8
1
1
3
2
...J...
' Gonorrhcpa
6 IS
i
11
1
.1
3.
1
2
and genital organs.
7
3
4 ...
All other diseases
1
1
Diseases of the serous and (
exbalent vessels. '
1
1
1
Pernio
1-
Diseases of the fibrous &
Podagra
muscular structures.
Rheumatismus
37
2
19
6
1
1
27
29
1
31
11
6
:::::: 27"
12
ot:
157
3
18S
77
21
2
4
167
5
4
48
5!
38
19
11
10
42
04 !
Fistula
~ 1
Abscesses and ulcers , ... '
Phlegmon et absccssus
Ulcus
40
19
1
40
15
24
11
=»
11; 1
^
'^ i
8 1 '
'
1
:::;■■ " \
1
28 i ;
2 ' !
1
29
1
Conlusio
Fractura
12
27
1
26
1
1 45
Wounds and injuries
2
1
1
1
8
4
9
1
2
3
8
2
1
Sub-lux.itio
4
1
3
1
5
14
4
1
2
1
1
15
13
14
8
1
10
9
3
.1
1
6
13
6
5
S
4
16
6
I
1
V'uliius incisum
Vulnus laceraluni
S
a
■"■■■ 1 1
4
Dcbilitas
1
I
1 ...: 1
3 1
5
3 1
o
2
4
10
5
Mi-^crllancous
Mnrhi cutis
6 6 2 !
7 8 1 U 1
10 1
9
2
16
28
61 [
'251 '
158
Scorbutus
4 43 ' 81
14 25 : 54
26 ! 19 78
18 '" 1 1 *
Total
310 1 14 1
429
8
696
9
614 10 1
444
3
959
9 13.4^9 i
1
1
1
1
1
406
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
VBAftS
THIRD aUARTER.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENGTH.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean- strength
434.
470.
657.
l>
047.
661.
514.
3,783.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
1
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total
cases.
Total
died.
Febris continua communis..
Febris inter, quniidiana.. ..
Febris intermittens terliana.
Febris inlermitlens quartana
17
11
3
54
38
4
83
6
45
50
3
101
70
3
54
1
1
270
231
3
19
1
15
623
554
10
277
7
Peveri ■
136
154
1
31
68
2
1
1
1
22
4
1
2
2
' ■ • • • •
1
1
' I
(
66
20
1
38
9
83
38
3
3
1
80
58
9
1
3
40
19
50
37
1
2
2
357
181
14
3
3
6
2
Diseases of the organs
1 '
4
1
2
1
gestive ByRtem.
1
1
1
I
10
H
3
15
10
14
2
7
2
2
15
22
9
39
1
11
16
15
16
6
13
1
"T" :::::;
69
92
26
123
9
3
10
57
12
6
8
11
27
3
8
8
12
1
1
10
6
41
1
I
nronchiiis, acuta et chronica
8
4
2
1
2
2
2
2
1
5
10
2
1
1
3
6
2
1
All other diseases
Cephalalgia
13
1
13
2
1
4
3
I
U
3
2
2
2
2
2
1
1
Diseases ofthe brain and'
Epilepsia
4
nervous system.
6
1
3
1
1
5
:.::::
2
9
2
1
1
3
7
2
3
r
Diseases of the urinary.
4
1
3
1
3
1
3
2
2
and genital organs.
S
4
1
1
All otiier diseases
1
1
Diseases of the serous (
and exhalent vessels, i
1
All other diseases
1
'
■■
Diseases ofthe fibrous fit J
Podagra
1
13
1
108
muscular structures. ]
20
23
15
24
13
f
Abscesses and ulcers
Fistula
Phlegmon et abscessus*
Ulcus
39
4
1
49
19
2
50
8
9
90
11
4
65
/
1
1
43
1
1
30
10
323
59
17
2
166
7
5
,3'
57
43-
36
IS
12
29
50
Amputatio
1
24
2
Contusio
10
1
24
2
1
1
11
7
5
4
1
4
2
4
35
30
1
2
Fractura
1
2
6
10
6
S
1
A
WoUDds and injuries
Punilio
Sub-luxatio
9
4
2
4
1
3
3
1
1
16
12
13
13
8
2
S
r>
4
4
6
10
7
1
5
6
10
14
2
1
1
Vulnus laeeratum
Vulnus punctum
1 1
1 1 1
6
27 '
2
1
Vulnus sclopcticura
6
1
1
o
5
Ebrietas
1 9
a
3
1
5
9
9
36
1
18 '
Hernia
1
a
3
5
10
8
9
1
8
6
4
20
1
6
13
34
25
1
38
53
73
149
1 9
■ 8
' 45
4
Total
353
1
9
747
12
714
5
854
9
3,810
40
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POST'S IN TEXAS, SOUTHERN FRONTIER.
407
Years
FOURTH QUARTER.
AGORE
STREK
1849. 1850. 1851.
;
1852.
1853. '
1854.
OTH.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mejln strenotb
511.
556. 560.
926.
1,352.
901.
4,806.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.'
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died, leases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Total
cases.
Total
died.
Febris continua communis ,
Febris inter, quotidiana
Febris intermittens tertiana.
Febris intermittens quartana
1
18
27
•
4
at
53
1 1
7
969
608
8
232
14
230
9
9
8
15
151
141
265
143
1
512
235
1
1
^
1
71
1
«.
30
7
13
^29
2
50
54
5
6
1
3
1
::::::::::::;:::::
50
^
1
1
2
r
89
12
3
71
12
1
2
44
21
1
1
36
1
181
167
3
2
1
1
1
114
38
2
535
270
9
6
3
1
95
84
51
305
3
16
10
9
36
31
5
6
6
38
3
19
5
11
1
3
9
20
3
3
5
1
1
3
Diseases of llie organs
I
1
1
1
connected witli the di-'
I
gestive system.
1
49
28
33
110
2
3
3
1
2
4
1
4
5
9
4
17
6
11
'
1
1
3
17
12
16
74
1
4
5
5
6
1
1
2
15
4
46
11
..:::: 9 ......
1
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
1
35
3
23
2 1
1
1
1
2
5
Diseases of tlie respira-
Pleuritis
2
1
2
3
2
5
1
tor>' system.
4
3
4
5
1
^
6
3
1
8
4
1
3
nervous system.
2
1
4
1
3
2
3
1
1
3
1
23
1
1
4
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
2
2
3
:::::: "v
1
3
4
Syphilis consecutiva
1
3
4
Diseases of the serous r
and exhalent vessels. *
1
1
2
1
SB
1
171
3
185
93
as
5
209
14
6
2
58
39
27
25
17
30
48
28
4
30
33
102
155
muscular structures. [
21
2
29
8
1
23
26
20
1
17
10
23
Abscesses and ulcers.... .
' Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
1
26
23
3
24
11
3
54
34
3
a
78
2
1
35
8
2
41
2
1
1
1
4
1
20
2
1
31
2
1
21
2
2
1
18
4
1
1
3
4
5
1
4
3
4
1
1
2
4
19
13
Wounds and injuries.... ^
9
5
3
1
1
4
2
5
1
1
9 !
1
6
4
3
6
15
8
9
6
4
28
11
3
11
18
4
81
1
9
5
4
1
3
19
12
6
2
2
Vulnus incisum
6
4
7
1
Vulnus punctum
1
Vulnus sclopeticum
3
3
1
9
Ebrietas
1
2
2
1
2
7
11
1
1
a
3
Miscellaneous •
12
1
1
10
1
I
41
16
1
3
26
17
1
3
a
Total
'
330
9 : 47-3 6
437
5
603 1 6
1,733
64
'l,344
1
18
4,SB9
108
408
REPORT ON TUE SICKNESS AND MORTALITT
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
FinST aUAUTER.
AGGRE
STKEf
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
OTU.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
.Mean strenoth..
1,095.
699.
1,0B0.
1,348.
1,540.
571.
6,933.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total
died.
Total
cases.
Fehris coiige*;liva
Febris contiiiua coniiiiinii^..
Frbris inter. qiinti(li.ina
Febris intermittens tcrliana.
Febris intermittens quartana
3
3
1
434
475
43
38
3
3
1
1
23
39
Fevera
1
146
89
4
6
2
1
1
45
60
3
3
1
1
IDS
94
1
8
76
137
32
6
37
56
3
IS,
2
o
Eruptive levers I
1
f
Cliolera Asiatica
5
6
2
5
149
16
30
2
8
10
16
29
2
17
60
11
4
1
1
49
17
13
8
3
114
44
3
2
4
57
31
3
1
10
19
7
d.1Q
10
Dysentena acuta
1
138
58
10
13
10
100
89
88
330
6
17
33
19
13
13
7
25
14
22
7
4
9
20
3
17
1
1
208
1
224
155
26
5
235
23
13
r
46
97
44
14
19
9
21
24
2
41
79
^3
215
5
Diseases of ihe organs
Dysenteria chronica
Enteritis
3
connected wiih the di-
1
1
gestive system.
Hepatitis clironiea
Obstipatio
1
2
1
14
12
IS
15
1
2
1
3
30
8
10
43
3
4
1
3
4
3
2
1
22
16
7
85
1
1
3
7
5
3
1
5
2
3
2
1
1
2
14
15
141
1
4
14
3
1
14
9
23
29
1
3
r
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
4
Pleurilis
3
13
4
3
1
2
4
2
7
3
1
1
2
2
All other diseases
Cephalalgia
1
1
8
2
4
3
4
7
4
1
nervous system.
2
1
5
3
1
1
3
1
2
All other diseases
1
3
1
1
Diseases of tJie urinary-
and genital organt<.
1
6
4
1
11
1
1
5
Syphihs consecutiva
All other diseases
1
Diseases of the serous j
3
5
2
a
1
1
3
4
1
1
Diseases of the fibrous & )
muscular structures. 1
1
1
35
Rheumati^mus
45
23
1
43
45
1
69
28
6
1
61
9
3
17
,
Abscesses and ulcers ■
i
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
16
29
4
39
23
4
1
29
5
1
62
28
5
3
58
2
3
31
38
5
1
17
9
2
Concussio cerebri . . .
1
26
1
2
7
8
23
7
2
4
39
4
1
22
2
3
.... .
Fractura
Woiuidsand injuries.... '
Punitio
3
33
4
3
7
13
5
9
6
2
3
5
4
1
3
7
7
63
1
n
17
11
1
2
3
7
8
12
23
11
8
2
2
1
Vulnus laccraluni
Vulnijs selopetieuin
Debilitas
3
4
3
6
1
2
3
5
1
4
10
6
22
1
3
1
1
Hiemorrhois
1
S
3
37
25
18
126
41
8
9
37
72
52
1
1
5
9
10
Scorbutus
8
All otlier diseases
Total
1
643
22
6oa
3
640
6
973
18
1,041
5
330
3
4,229
57
AMONG THE TKOOPS IN TEXAS.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN TEXAS— WESTERN FRONITER.
409
SECOND QUARTER.
CLASSED OF DIS-
EASES.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
~ AGOREG&TK
BTBEXGTB.
Mean strength .
939.
1,061.
1,603.
1,659.
537.
6.560.
SPECIFIC DISEASES. ,Cases., Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died "^"'^ '''°'"'
' I I cases, died.
Fevers .
10
29
14
1
Eruptive fevers .
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
gestive system.
Diseases of the respira-
Febris contiima communis..
Febris inter, quotidiana
Fcbris intermittens tcrljana.
Febris intermittens quarlana
Febris remiltens 7
Febris typhus I
Erysipelas 2
Variola
Cholera Asiatica 84
Diarrhoea j 221
Dysenteria acuta 6 23
Dyscnteria chronica i 2 2
Enteritis i 2
Hepalilis acuta ' 2
Hepatitis chronica
Obsllpalio 13 48
All other diseases 25 21
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
Catarrbus 11
99
139
I
11
1
3
2
120
197
3
24
373
88
1
1
35
12
150
37
1 124
... I 153
....! 35
1 12
680
904
80
63
lory system.
Diseases of the brain and
ner\'0us system.
Phthisis pulmonalis ,
Pleuritis
Pneumonia
.\11 other diseases . . .
t'ephalalgia
Delirium tremens . . .
1
1
2
9
1
1
Epilepsia 2
1
2
4
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
Diseases of the serous and <
ezhalent vessels. '
Disea-'es of the fibrous &
muscular structures.
Abscesses and ulcers.... *
Neuralgia
All other diseases
Gonorrhcpa
Strictura urethrje
Syphilis primitiva 2
Syphilis consecutiva 1
.•Ul other diseases 3
Ascites 1
All other diseases 6
Pernio
Podagra
Rheumatismus 20
Fistula
Phlegmon et absccssus 57
Ulcus 17
Ambustio 1
Amputatio
4
11
1
5
7
o
7
1
3
6
3
5
65
23
9
32
1
56
47
3
71
32
30
8
38
33
8
37
3
3
24
3
13
1
13
1
1
1
1
1
2
3
Wounds and injuries. . . . ■
BUscelliuieous i
Concussio cerebri
Conlusio
Fractura
Luxatio
?ub luxatio
Vulnus incisum
Vulnus laccratum
Vulnus punctum
Vulnus sclopeticum . . . .
Debilitas
Ebrietas
Hxniorrhois
Hernia , ..
Morbi cutis
Morbi oculi
Scorbutus
Suicidiuni
All other diseases 2:2
S
38
3
3
37
55
39
6
90
3S
4
3
13
5
10
10
75
I
1
9
20
9
3
12
S
a
4
3
6
10
as
3
4
10
13
4
4
3
8
6
3
29
94
4
1
15
16
12
9
1
3
12
9
1
10
31
51
1
87
•2
1
2
1
5
8
1
3
1 1
2
1
4
' 189
I 37
294
154
29
3
360
18
14
39
90
54
36
42
19
U
58
143
1
^
Total .
698
9 1,155 9 1,362
403
4 5,626
84
731
143
36
3
6
5
243
166
35
175
6
9
14
28
18
7
36
15
I 18
10
7
9
25
3
9
•2
35
13
1
I
1
S. 96-
410
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE FIUNCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Years
THIKD ClUAKTEU.
AOOREOATB
6TR£N0TU.
1849. ' 1850. ' 1851. 1852. 1853. I 1854.
1 :
CLASSKS OF DIS-
E\SES.
Mean strenotu
641. ' 817. 1 1,279. j 1,621.
1,319.
600.
6,277.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Casus.
Died. Cases. Died. Cases.
Died. Cases. Died.
1
Cases
Died. Cases 1 Died
Toliil : Total
ca^es. died.
1 Febris coniinua otmniunis .
! Febris inter. f]Uo[idiana ....
Febris inlorniittens lertiana.
Febris intorniillens quartana
11 QO
1{1
68
393
377
1
109
Fevers ■
191
74
120
156
16
85
350
291
11
45
1 241
315
77
140
......
1,375
1,333
29
314
1
77
■
60 ' 1 19
8
1
1 1
Erysipelas
2
1
1
3I
1
80
2
49
40
1
1
117
56
S
1 168
1 I 78 1
2 1
132
52
598
3
16 \ 1 10
4 3
t 208
1R
3
Dyscnlcria chronica
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-'
3
5
3
1
>
5
1
1
1
1
31
21
S
27
1
3
8
3
213
gestive system.
1
1 61
20
20
2
4
1
2
SB
1 25
4
17
1 ! 1
2
; .'50
1 29
11
[
' ^ i ! ''
11 ' 10
30 i 32
164 j 1
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
32 i
j 9 !
119
3 ' 1
Diseases ol the respira-.
IMcuritis
1
11
I
6
6
1
R
1 i
19 '..
toiy system.
2
1
..;:..--.
L
1
2
7
1
5
4
8
7
1
9
5
4
4
5
1
1
3
4
17 1
1
7
6
3
1
10
3
1
6
34
20
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
Diseases of the urinary
2
1
3 1
...."! .5
30
2!
1 1 : 2'
3 2
3
5 1 2
3
2
1
6
2
19 1
7 1
8 i-
1
3
.... 3
and ijcnital organs.
SypliiUs consecutiva
All other diseases
2
6
1
3
5
31
Diseases of the serous (
3
11
1
5
3
3
1
3
1 2
2
1
11
Diseases of the fibrous & ]
:::::::::::: :::::;:":l::::
::::::r:;::i;:;::.r-v-
muscular structures.
Abscesses and ulcers . . . . j
17
64
25
3
1
21
1 14
110
41
7
50 1
124
52
7 <
37 13
,..9
Phlegmon ct abscessus
Ulcus
55
17
99
43
37
29
2
4S9
207
28
3
3
317
17
16
1
2
29
3
3
1
35
4
i 63
59
102 1 99 1
3
6
11
! 1
1
.... 1
Wounds and injuries ^
1
g
...
10.
14
7
6
3
19 j
:::::; " !::::::
8 '
:::::. 'l !;:::::
18 1 - ' 11
67
16
4
1
3
2
S
2
6
4
5
30
9
8
2
4
12
8
3
.... 1 9
93 --
Vulnus laceratum
Vulnus puneiuni
3
3
2
4
3
38
31
20
.■)l
Vulnus gclopriienin
5 10
2 1 8
2 1
1 a
:;
J
39
7
RR
7
38 j
28 1
15 1
I
5
6 1 4 1 17
1 ! 1 a 1 fi
35
13
1
......
ur,
2
42 < 3
1
1
59
1
1
1
2 2
All other diseases
28
91
1 98
1
86
29
391 j 2
1
1 Total
742
3 H.17 i '1 a<ir.
4 1,892
7
'
AMONG THE TROOPS IN TEXAS.
411
AWONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN TEXAS— WESTERN J-'KONTIKK.
FOURTH aUARTER. '
Years
1848.
1849. 1850.
1851.
1852.
18S3.
1854.
•TKeKOTH.
CLASSES OF
DISEASES.
Mean STRENGTH 398.
683.
SOS.
1,263.
1,634.
720.
619.
6,235.
IsPECIFIC DISEASES. Cases. Died, 'cases.
1 • 1
Died. Cases.' Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases. Died.
Total
cas*-*.
Total
died.
4
202
263
^
2
355
154
52
36
15
419
454
2
4
30
1 Febrisint. quotidiana .. 5
1 Febris int. lertiana 11
34
113
7
122
188
2
127
~
1,264
1,360
63
93
8
1
5
1
4
196
688
265
51
11
5
3
121
99
38
335
10
1
Febris remittens 3
19
1
30
4
I
I
2
1
Febris typhus icterodcB.
1
1
Eruptive fevers-
1
4
1
: 1
1
4
1
IS6
77
133
1
■■■■|
133
76
17
4
4
78
31
24
1 1 4
1
2
1
58
8
a
3
1
131
75
4
1
1
48
46
7
2
2
54
3
Dysentena acuta
4
M
4
1
5
4
2
1
I
2
I
15
19
9
115
1
17
14
1
38
10
3
1
1
1
f
Respiraiorj- sys-
Obstipatio
1 All other diseases
'
12
27
e !
1
32
30
4
64
1
1
1
_
16
9
10
31
2
3
1
6
1
3
2
Catarrhus
Phthisis pulmonalis
■fO
13 * 37
4 1 I .1
35
5
7
e
7
3
2
10
2
4
2
2
'
1
21
2
2
Q
14
1
2
1
1 IK
o
Brsin and ncr-.
i-ous system.
f
1 1
1 1 1 a
6
i 3
20
Delirium tremens
1 3
3
3
4
1
4
14 2
1
lo
1
1
6 3
•i
3
23
I
10
1 o
4
1
9
12
34
5
j Gonorrhoea
8 :
1
2
1
2
1
1
3
SS
3
68
68
3
2
7
3
1
2
1
. •<>>
1
3
4
1
11
13
19
1
10
2
3
1 '
2
Serous and ex- 1
halent vessels. (
Fibrous & iiius- i
cularstruct's. I
f
Abscesses and!
ulcers.
■ All other diseases
i 3 i 4
4
I
1
a 1 I
1
3
30
1
46
43
8
1 j
1
;
1
I
24
1
11
22
1 Ift 1 .
183 1
....!...:.." ::"■■
Phlegmon et abscessus. .
Ulcus
AmbusUo
6
6
4
27
26
2
40
1
^
14
3
30
14
S
I
343
184
30
3
9
S99
8
1
28
1 j 1
33 '
1
16
, 49
60 : 1
3
1
'3 i
12
79
3
35 j
1
1
1
1 1
Wounds and in-
1 .....|.....
3
juries.
I
13
20 !
14
9
7
1 1 lO !A
20
4
1....
13
8
3 L .
11 8.T
Vulnus laccratuni
1
9
5
3 i
3
4
5
8
12
9
I
1
11
45
19
Vulnus sclupeticum
1
■1
5
3
2
1
2
S
1
2
18 S
4
4
T
1
7
27
31
a
2
1
6
9
34
' Hernia
1
!
I
2
Miscellaneous.. -,
2
9
7
23
1
3 '
19 I
9 1
65 1
11
S6
2
4
7
20 I
19
Morbi oculi
1 Scorbutus
All other diseases
Total
3
. 15
8
84
71
57
6
44 1
72
1
19
a
a
423
136
888
8 681
1
1,402 1 17
1,835 j 3
672 4
S85
3
6,486 177
NEW MEXICO.
Since the occupation of this Territory by the forces of the United States, the troops have been
kept very constantly employed, either in suppressing Indian difficulties, or in carrying on active
operations against hostile tribes. The peculiar nature of the service, and the inadequacy of the
force to meet the numerous demands for military aid and protection, rendered frequent changes
of position necessary: and, accordingly, it is found that quarterly reports of sick have been re-
ceived from twenty-four posts in this Territory, within the six years embraced in the accompa-
nying abstract, although, on an average, not more than ten positions have been garrisoned at
one time.
To the frequent movement of troops from one point to another, and the almost constant field
service of a majority of the medical officers, is attributed the absence of medico-topographical
reports from the military stations in New Mexico. From the few brief notes furnished with
the quarterly reports, the following statements respecting the geographical positions of the seve-
ral posts have been mainly compiled.
FOKT MASSACHUSETTS, CANTONMENT BURG WIN, TAOS, ABIQUIU, AND FORT UNION.
Fort Massachusetts : The most northern post in this Territory is located in a sheltered val-
ley on Utah creek, opening into the great valley of San Luis. Lofty mountains rise abruptly
on the east, and surround San Luis valley on all sides.
Cantonment Burgwin : Near the source of the Kio Grande, nine miles north of Taos, in a
rough, mountainous district.
Taos : The town of Taos is situated on an elevated plateau north of Santa Fe, and near a
tributary of the Eio Grande from the east.
Abiquiu : On the Eio de Chama, a tributary of the Kio Grande from the west, in a narrow
valley in the vicinity of very high mountains.
Fort Union : Northeastward from Santa Fe about fifty miles, on the Moro river, a branch of
the Canadian. Locality in a mountainous region opening eastward to the Great Plains.
SANTA Ft, LAS VEGAS. CEBOLLETA AND LAGUNA, ALBUQUERQUE, AND FORT CRAIG.
Santa Fe : On an elevated plateau, near forty miles eastward of the Rio Grande. The local
exposure is very free and open, but lofty mountain ranges enclose the plateau and immediate
valley of the river.
Las Vegas : The town of Las Vegas is on the first slope of those gradually increasing hills,
forming an offset or dividing spur between the Eaton range and the Eocky Mountains. An
extensive and somewhat iertile valley, which furnishes the basis of support to the town, inter-
venes between the plains in front and the hills, whence a mountain-stream, the Eio Vegas, flows
with a rapid current, and, by irrigation, is made to water tlie valley in the singularly dry sea-
sons common to that locality. The soil is argillaceous, with so great an intermixture of mica
414 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
as to be in many places highly reflective of the rays of the sun. The natural slope of the sur-
face, the absence of marshes, the usually dry atmosphere, and the great elevation above the sea
(about 6,000 feet), combine to render the position a healthy one. — (From quarterly report of
Assistant Surgeon Thos. A. McParUn.
Cebolleta and Laguna : At the sources of a branch of the Puerco river, west of the Eio
Grande, and southwest of Santa Fe. At Cebolleta, the post was in a narrow valley or glen,
facing eastward, with a very defective and local exposure. Subsequently (in October, 1851) the
post was removed twenty miles southward to Laguna, an o^jen valley of tlie San Jose river, a
tributary of the Rio Puerco.
Albuquerque : A town on the east bank of the Rio Grande, about midway between Santa Fe
and Socorro.
Fort Craig : Following the valley of the Rio Grande southward, we come successively to the
military station at Socorro, and to Fort Conrad, respecting which special reports will be given.
Next in order is Fort Craig, at the northern terminus of the Jornada del Muerto, nine miles
below Fort Conrad and southward on the river.
FORT THORN, FORT WEBSTER, DONA ANA, FORT FILLMORE, AND FORT BLISS.
Fort Thorn : In the valley of the Rio Grande, and opposite the centre of the Jornada, sixty
miles below Fort Conrad.
Fort Webster : At the copper mines, near the sources of the Rio Mimbres and of the Gila,
Sierra Madre, in a caiion among abrupt mountains. In October, 1852, this post was removed
to a point on the Rio Mimbres, eight miles E.N.E. of the copper mines.
Dona Ana : In the Rio Grande valley, about fifty miles above El Paso, and seven miles below
the terminus of the Jornada del Muerto. The locality is a wide valley, with high protecting
mountains at several miles' distance.
Fort Fillmore : Near Mesilla, on the east side of the Rio Grande, about forty miles north of
El Paso. The locality is a wide valley, with high mountains to the east, distant from ten to
fifteen miles.
Fort Bliss : Nearly opposite the town of El Paso, on the north bank of the Rio Grande.
MEDICAL topography AND DISEASES OF FORT CONRAD.
By Assistant Surgeon E. P. Langworthy : 1853.
Fort Conrad lies in the county of Socorro, New Mexico, 25 miles below the county seat,
(Socorro,) on the Rio Grande del Norte. It is situated on a sandy, gravelly mesa, or table-land,
which rises abruptly from the grassy bottoms of the river about half a mile west of the Rio
Grande. This table-land becomes exceedingly broken as you proceed west from the stream,
rising by successive rude steps or grades, till the formation is lost among the range of high
mountains that bound the fort on the west, southwest, and northwest. The brokenness of the
mesa depends in a great degree upon the washings of rains, and the drifting of the light sand
that is almost constantly in motion, on account of the high winds that prevail here almost with-
out cessation. The alluvial low lands, or bottoms of the river, consist, for the most part, of a
light-yellowish sand, incorporated to a greater or less extent with a saline matter, that covers
the surface of the groimd in patches like snow, and presents precisely the same appearance.
Where the ground is lower, the soil differs materially, and is rendered very fertile by admix-
ture with humus, and other rich deposits of matter. With the exception of an occasional brack-
ish, saline cesspool, in the flat low lands, there is never stagnant water, for any length of time,
in this vicinity.
The latitude of Fort Conrad is about 33° 34' 19" N., and the longitude 107° 9' 39" W.; the
altitude above the ocean 4,576 feet. Between this post and Santa Fe there is a difference of
AMONG THE TROOPS IN NEW MEXICO. 415
altitude, in favor of the latter, of considerably over 2,400 feet, althougli there is but a little
over two degrees difFerence in the respective latitudes of the places. While at this point we are
enjoying the balmy, invigorating atniospliere of spring, so materially the climate differs, the
residents of Santa Fe are wrapped up in their great-coats, and shivering over the blazing fagots
of pinon and cedar.
This post is to a great extent environed and encompassed by mountains, remote and near,
but particularly in a westerly direction. Eight or ten miles east of us, the San Pasqual rears
its huge head; at the south, and overlooking the murky waters of the Kio Grande, stands the
rugged Fra Cristobal, twenty miles distant ; at the west and northwest looms up the extensive
and lofty range known as the Sierra San Mateo and Sierra Ilalin. The Saline mountain, near
the foot of which lies the Salt Lake, from which the Mexicans procure large quantities of cornmon
salt for domestic purposes, is seen, of a deep-blue color, in the southeast; and to the right the
northern terminus of the long chain that extends across the Jornada del 3Iuerto, parallel with
the wagon trail, ycleped Sierra de Cahallo — so called from the northern extremity of the range
resembling somewhat a horse, as the name indicates. Socorro mountain, and the Sierra de las
Ladrones (Thieves mountain) 25 and 50 miles distant (above), and on the west side of the Eio
Grande; and Manzana mountain on the cast side, opposite the Ladrones mount, and numerous
others, great and small, in various directions, that are nameless, present no peculiar or very
interesting feature. They are mainly basaltic, traversed bj^ dikes of trap. These mountains
are clothed more or less with timber, and stunted scrub bushes, that relieves their barrenness
in a great measure to the eye of the beholder. Unfortunately, I have never been enabled to
examine and thoroughly explore the mountainous districts. ' The physical aspect of the sur-
rounding country is anything but interesting, and I trust I shall not incur the charge of
monstrously exaggerating the true facts when I remark that the whole Territory of New Mex-
ico is little else than a great sterile mountainous desert, not calculated for the residence of
man in a state of civilization. There are oases, however, in nearly all deserts ; and New Mexico
does not prove an exception to the general rule.
This post has been established but eighteen months, and therefore its "medical statistics"
must necessarily present little that would be satisfactory to an inquiring mind.
Diseases of the digestive organs have been more frequent than any other. The cause of this I
am compelled to attribute, in a great measure, to the adulterated, poisonous liquor, both Ameri-
can and Mexican, that is vended to, and drank by, the soldiers in this Territory in great quan-
tities; and, indeed, I may truthfully remark, that many other of the diseases of this command
acknowledge, and can be traced to the same immoral source. The whole number of diseases
treated in eighteen months, in a command averaging 479, was 562, as follows: 140 in the last
quarter of 1851. In 1852, first quarter, 111; second quarter, 131; third quarter, 91; fourth
quarter, 50. In 1853, first quarter, 39. Quarterly mean of 1852, 127. Mean of the six
quarters, 93. This post is a very healthy one, and comparatively few are sick. In fact, there
is no country on the face of the globe, perhaps, that surpasses New Mexico for salubrity and
purity of atmosphere, and general freedom from disease. Five deaths only have occurred here,
to wit: three from diarrhoea (chronic), one from empyema, and one from acute pneumonia. Six
liave been discharged on surgeon's certificate of ordinary disability, for injuries received, &c.
The principal maladies of the country are syphilis, gonorrhoea, rheumatism, and erysipelas.
The two first-named, from the shockingly low state of morals here, are very prevalent in
both sexes; and, from what I have seen of these diseases, I am of opinion that they are of a
more malignant form, and less tractable under treatment, than the same in the States. Ery-
sipelas occurs epidemically oftentimes, and is said to be very fatal in its effects. I have not seen
a single case of this disease, and therefore cannot speak ex cathedra or advisedly concerning it.
The same remedies, with slight modifications, are employed in the two first named maladies
Santa /¥, latitude 35° 44' 6" N ; elevation of same above the sea 7,000 feet.
416 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
that are elsewhere. As far as I can loam, this will equally ap])!}' to the treatment of rheuma-
tism and erysipelas. To the simple diet of the Mexican population, much of the health they
enjoy can he attrihuted. This diet is composed of little else than chile Colorado (red pepper),
atoli or atolc (parched corn, sugar, and water), ^jcJioZa, frijoles, ])arched corn (per se) tortillas,
with corn stalk molasses and chocolate nd libitum. In consequence of the abject poverty of the
great mass, animal Ibod is seldom a constituent of their diet. They are ipso facto from neces-
sity, herlm-orous or p/njlivorons in a great degree. But a few weeks since, I treated two cases of
bilious fever, both of which had degenerated into the typhoid stage before I was called. One,
a Mexican woman, died, as might be expected under the existing circumstances; but the other,
an American, whose excess in strong drink had lowered the tone of his system, I effectually
cural, principally by the exhibition of large doses of sulph: quinine, as practised, and so
strongly recommended by Dr. Eobert Dundas, physician to the Northern Hospital, Liver-
pool, &c.
On account of the dryness of this climate, koino miasmata is not a fruitful source of disease,
as in most countries; and I have met with very few fevers the causation of which could bo
traced to malarious exhalations or sources. Americans, who are subject to that troublesome
complaint, ague and fever, in this Territory, I am led to believe have more often brought the
germs, the hlastemce of the malady, in their systems from the States, and some exposure here has
excited into action, and developed or redeveloped the dormant occult poison.
The tvaters of the Territory of Neto Mexico are of a healthy character, generally speaking,
although the waters of the Rio Puerco, Rio de Galisteo, and other small streams that debouch
into the Kio Grande, are said to be deleterious to health during a high stage of water. More
than 60,000 persons annually drink the water of the Rio Grande and its tributaries; and, from
personal experience, I can bear testimony that it is not exceeded by the famed Missouri water
for excellence and freedom from insipidity. The Rio Grande at this point wends its way nearly
north and south; it is about 300 yards wide, often more, with low banks, which the "oldest
inhabitant" has rarely known to be overflown during the great rises, which annually occur in
the months of April, May, and June, and which depend upon the melting of the snow in the
northern mountains near the source of the stream. This flood, which is at its maximum in May,
is in proportion to the amount of snow that has fallen in the mountains during the j)receding
winter. Like the Missouri, and western rivers generally, the Rio Grande is, at all stages of
water, more or less muddy.
The "vital statistics" of the Indian tribes are little known. The chief bands that infest
this section of country are the Gila Apaches, Apaches of the Sacramento and White Moun-
tains, and Mezcalero Apaches, and the Navajoes. The Apaches are subdivided into several
bands, and perhaps cannot muster, all told, over 600 warriors. The White Mountain and
Sacramento Apaches inhabit the valleys and mountain fastnesses east of the Rio Grande, as
well as the Mezcaleros; and the Apaches of the Rio Gila the western mountains. The Navajoes
live in the country northwest from this point. This tribe is quite numerous ; but its exact
number is a matter that still remains sub Judice. The Jicarrilla Apaches, living in the east-
ern portion of New Mexico, are not very numerous, and the governor of this Territory informed
me that they had recently entered into a treaty with him to emigrate west of the Rio Grande,
and Chacon's band has already gone. When Mangus Colorado, and kindred spirits of the
Apache nation, have been sent to their home in the upper hunting-grounds, and not till then,
will the efforts to colonize them prove at all successful. One hundred and fifty Apache war-
riors have been killed during the past year in the State of Sonora, in forays with the Mexicans;
at least I have the authority of an officer of the army who has been stationed among the
Apaches at the " Cobres" (Fort Webster) for making the statement. Nearly all the Indians
in this country speak Spanish; a very few, who have been raised with the ^Mexicans, read, and
even write it.
The nearest settlement here is San Antonita, 12 miles up the rivei-. In TOO miles around
AMONG THE TROOPS IN NEW MKXICO. 417
there are not over 10,000 Mexicans ; and that may exceed the numher, for I have no reliable
data to direct my judgment. The Kio Abajo, from here down, for a hundred miles, is not
populated at all, or the land cultivated.
The mountain Indians of New Mexico are seldom sick. The healthfulness of this branch of
the genus homo is most enviable. Venereal diseases are sometimes found among them, and are
often contracted from Mexican women, many of whom are never free from this disgusting
malady, and are taken into the tribes, often willingly, more often vi et armis, and adopted as
wives and serfs by the band, thus disseminating the seeds of the disease. These savages are
subject to opthalmia, which I judge is often the gonorrhceal variety. Gun-shot and incised
wounds are more frequent among them than any other form of injury, as might be supposed
from their marauding, belligerent disposition ; and indeed, what illness they are subject to prin-
cipally arises from this cause. Lues venerea and gonorrhoea are about all the diseases that
seriously effect the Mexican populace, with the exceptions stated in a previous part of this
paper. I regret I can add nothing more satisfactory on this subject.
With the geological formations and peculiarities of this country, in detail, none are familiar.
The rocks "crop out" but seldom in this vicinity, and where they do are mainly basaltic, with
trap and metamorpliic sandstone, the latter of various colors. There are some calcareous
deposits occasionally met with, and seams of porphyritic lava traverse the mountains, which
are basaltic in character, and of volcanic origin. Fragments of lava, both felspathic and augi-
tic (scoriw), strew the earth in the neighborhood of the mountains, as well as the debris of
basaltic, amygdaloid, and trap rock, which is everywhere found on the table-lands of the Ter-
ritory. Gold, mercury, copper, silver, and galena, are found in greater or less quantities in
many of the mountainous elevations ; and I have no doubt a little Yankee enterprise in this
region would develop something important. Extensive beds of copper are known to exist at the
Mimbres Mountains (the location of Fort Webster), and were formerly worked; but owing to
the depredations of the Indians, active operations were abandoned. The surface of the eleva-
tion, where shafts were sunk, is covered with hi sulphuret of iron (iron pyrites), and sub-oxide
of copper (red oxide). The silver mines of the Sierras de los Organos, near Fort Fillmore, are
at the present writing being worked, and yield a fair amount of the metal. The silver is found
in the form of a sulphuret (vitreous silver of mineralogists), united with galena. Granitic
formations are common in the country.
New Mexico can boast of nothing on a ve7-i/ extensive scale; unless it be, indeed, its sterility
and actual worthlessness ; and the number, variety, and voraciousness of the " insect ce" — a great
portion of which, I presume, have never been described. The larger animals of this Territory
live in the mountains and intermediate valleys and caiions.
Of the class carnaria, or butchering animals, are the grizzly and black bear, panther, wild cat,
pole-cat, weasel, and the large and small wolf, the lobo and coyote. The two former animals
seldom stray fir from their natural habitat — the rugged mountain fastnesses. They are very
large and fearfully voracious.
Of the rodentia, I am cognizant of only the prairie dog, a small burrowing squirrel, the
mouse, rat, a large hare (known as the burro or jackass rabbit), and the ordinary rabbit (Jepiis
cmiiculus). The two latter are found in great numbers all over the country.
Of the stilted or long-legged birds, I have seen but the sand-hill crane. They are here es-
teemed as one of the luxuries of the mesa.
Palmipedes. — All the streams and ponds in the country are usually frequented by geese,
brant, and ducks of many varieties. The avocet, classed under this head, is also found here
occasionally.
Accipitres. — The turkey-buzzard, eagle, hawk, and raven, are all the birds of prey the coun-
try affords, as I am informed, and believe. The former and latter are very numerous, espe-
cially the last named, and are invaluable as scavengers around the post.
Chelonia. — Several varieties of tortoise — small and insignificant.
«. 96 53
418 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Ophidia. — Eattle-snakes — many huge and fearfully venomous. There are other serpents in-
habiting land and water that are liarniless.
Sauria. — Chameleon, and a small swift lizard, the speed of whicli on the hot sand in mid-
summer would put to blush the fastest locomotive.
Passerince. — Sparrows, meadow-lark, blackbird (two species), martin, chapparal-swallow,
and, I have lately observed, the red-breast robin.
GalUnacca. — Tlie bluish, lod-colored quail, or partridge, {ortix squamosa,) inhabits this coun-
try. I think the pisano or chapparal-cock, which I have often met with here in my rambles,
also comes under the head of gallinacea.
Batradiea. — Ordinary toad, and amphibious frog. I have seen no horned frogs in the valley
of the Rio Grande. They are common on the plains, particularly near the Cimarone river.
Pisces. — The buffalo fish and cat, of gigantic dimensions, are the only fish I have seen. In
the mountain streams trout are found.
The mountains and wooded valleys of the streams are inhabited to a considerable extent by
wild turkeys and the brilliant-plumaged 2)arroquet. Antelope, and the common and black-
tail deer, are comparatively plentiful in the mountainous parts of the country, where they al-
most exclusively roam. They are killed principally for their skins, from which garments are
manufactured by the Indians and Mexicans.
The site of Fort Conrad (Yalverde) has long been famous among the Mexicans for its veno-
mous animals. Here, as elsewhere in Mexico, the centipede, tarantula, scorpion, et id orime
genus, live and flourish. It is not uncommon to meet the two first filing athwart the parade,
or crawling on the jcrga around our quarters. I was surprised when I saw the length and
acuteness of the tarantula's teeth; they are uncovered, and fold under the anterior portion of
his body. I have seen, as yet, no one of the command bitten. Each leg of the centipede is
armed, and terminated by an acute point, horny in character, which penetrates and poisons the
flesh when they crawl on an animal.
The vegetable kingdom in this, as in most parts of the country, is uninteresting in kind, nor
is it extensive in variety. Everytliing in the vegetable world is stunted and deformed — the re-
sult of the want of water. I will proceed to present all the information on this subject that I
am in possession of.
The Rio Grande is skirted on both sides by Cottonwood {populus canadensis), generally grow-
ing sparsely, very crooked, and dwarfish. There appears to be two varieties, that differ only
in the color of the blossom — one being white, the other red. In the bottom land, we find the
willow struggling for existence ; and in the land lower still, especially where there is standing
water, the reed-grass or cane. The grass in the bottoms springs up in patches or clumps, and
does not grow very luxuriantly. Immediately here, and in the adjacent region, are found the
obioue canescens, franseria acanthocarpa, yerba del sapa, of the Mexicans ; scrub white cedar ;
a kind of wild potato, or solanum ; but not, I think, the original solanum tuberosum; wild
salvia, salicornia, atriplex, iodeodonda (Zajrea J/e.rica?!a); a species of acacia ; salt grass {Uniola
distichojihylla), cacti of considerable variety, in shape, size, and kind; tessaria borealis, diotis
lanata, dalea formosa, and varieties of mesquite. An evergreen of the genus quercus has been
spoken of by some adventurer, and also a new kind of ash and black-walnut; the three latter I
have not seen. The summer and winter grama grass furnishes grazing for the herds during the
respective seasons, and both varieties are jironounced remarkably nutritious. Among the sand-
hills may be seen the prosopis glandulosa, riddellia tagetina, pagapaga, and chamisa. Several
species of the genus pinus, cedar, and oak cover the mountains, interspersed by black- walnut,
and a few other varieties of trees. These trees are not tall or large, as a general thing, and
make indifferent lumber in consequence ; but a virtue is made of necessity in all things in tliis
desolate jDOi's. Wild timothy, oats, clover, and a plant much resembling wheat, have recently
been seen in the mountain canons and valleys.
Rain seldom falls in this country in any quantities compared with rain in the States. The year
AMONG THE TROOPS IN NEW MEXICO. 419
1852 was an extraordinary one for showers in New Mexico, and perhaps more rain fell during the
last year than tlie two previous seasons. The whole amount of water that has fallen since the
estahlisliment of this post (18 months) is only 9.8G inches! 8.62 inches of this amount fell in
1852; the monthly mean of the same year was a little over 0.71 inches; the mean of the six
quarters ahove mentioned, 1.64 inch. The prevailing winds are from the W., S.W., and N.
W., and the atmosphere is seldom in a state of quietude. In consequence of the absence of
rain here, artificial irrigation has to he resorted to by means of acequias, factitious canals, or
ducts running from the river to the cultivated ground. The acequia is taken out of the river
high enough to give the water sufficient elevation to overflow and inundate the land at the
pleasure of the ranchero who cultivates the soil. Rain is not at all depended uj^on. Very
little dew falls here; the atmosphere is exceedingly dry. Occasionally, during the winter
months, a slight fall of snow occurs ; but this is rare, and what falls immediately disappears.
I have now stated all facts that I am in possession of relating to this 2)ost and the adjacent
country that could be of interest to the medical department of the army. This post has had
existence so brief a period, that the sickness and mortality that has occurred here furnishes no
field for speculation or the deduction of important facts. I have to express mj' sincere regret
that the report is not more elaborate, more instructive, and more comprehensive; but circum-
stances, over which I have no control, elfectually preclude the possibility of its being so at
present.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF SOCORRO.
By Assistant Surgeon J. F. Hammond : 1852.
The surface of New Mexico is formed into a succession of mountain ridges and narrow valleys
running from the N.W. by N. — the result of volcanic action ; as the quantities of granite, por-
phyry, and trachyte upon the loftiest summits evince, it has been scathed to barrenness, its
streams dried up, generally, the soil scorched to powder by volcanic fires. The craters of ex-
tinct volcanoes, and beds of scoriae, are observed in places, and basalt almost everywhere. The
whole yields a sparse growth of stunted cedars and artcmesia, and, on some of the mountain
ridges, the short-leaf pine, walnut, and small trees of white oak; and a few groves of cotton-
wood are in the valleys here and there.
Running down one of the valleys, distinguishable from the others only by its watercourse, its
scattered thin grove.s of cottonwood, and the greater number of inhabitants, is the Rio Grande
del Norte, skirted, a few hundred yards from its banks, by a range of naked, yellow pebbly hills,
relieved by a succession of ranges beyond, which increase in height as they rise successively,
until the view is boimded by a bare ridge of low, dark, rugged mountains. On the west side
of this river, in latitude about 35° 41' N., longitude 106° 2' W.* from Greenwich, and in altitude
6,846 feet above the level of the sea, is the village of Socorro.
In the revolution by the Pueblo Indians, in 1680 — excited by the cupidity and tyranny of the
priests, that even to the present day have kept the inhabitants in slavery and the most blind
ignorance and corruption — which expelled the Spaniards from New Mexico, the latter, under
Otermin, the governor, in their retreat to Mexico, had reached this point in a state of starvation
and desjiair, when they were relieved by a supply of provisions sent them by the lieutenant
governor, who was in advance of tliem. On the return of the Spaniards to New Mexico, ten
years afterwards, the agricultural and other advantages of the location induced them to make a
settlement at this place, and in grateful remembrance of the succor they had met here, they
named the settlement Socorro.
Socorro is situated in a recess of the hills and mountains, which apparently form a grand
amphitheatre here on its north, west, and south sides. On the N.N.W. a chain of mountains
has been pierced by the river, and its soutli wing, rising into scattered and gloomy j)eaks,
descends southwardly in two broken ridges, the nearest of which, about four miles off, rises, in
" Position and altitude is given as recently determined by Major Emory. — C.
420 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITT
a rugged cone, to the altitude of 2,800 feet, directly west of the village; whilst the farther,
twelve miles distant, with a regular pyramid, apparently of smooth stone, ujion its hack,
reaches the height of 4,500 feet, or more, ahove tlie 2)lain, and is juirtially covered with snow
from November until June. They run toward the south, and are in view for twenty miles
below, when they arc hid behind an angle of the chain. Between them is a smooth, pretty
valley, opening at each extremity on the river, and covered with short grass which gives
sustenance to herds of antelope. Four miles off, on the north, a range of barren gravel-hills
spring suddenly, in a bluff, from the river, and, sweeping around westward and toward the
south, and spreading out into small flat spurs toward the east, terminates laterally in that
direction by an abrupt fall of fifteen feet or more, and forms the first extent of inclined plateaux,
reaching from the base of the mountains to the river, eastward. On the west side of the range,
it is continuous with the mountains. From the foot of this first plateau extends a second
inclined plain, which, at the distance of a mile, toward the east, from its commencement, expe-
riences a less marked fall than the first; and, stretching onward for a mile toward the east,
falls into the Rio Grande. Beyond — east of the river — parallel with, and five hundred yards
from it, is a range of sand-hills, rising, as they retire toward the east, gradually into a low
range of mountains, fifteen miles distant, and send a spur to form a high sand-bluff on tlie
river, opposite to the village. Tliis latter lies directly across the road from the lower country,
and, irregular on the top, obtains the name of "The High Hills of La Parida." This range
of mountains, running toward the south, for many miles in view, is overtopped, here and there,
in the southeast, by distant, rugged, sombre mountains ; and on the north is covered from
view by the gravel-hills sjjoken of as rising west of the river. The river, flowing from tlie
north, makes a large bend eastward, six miles above the village, in the concavity of which
is a heavy grove of cottonwood, in view from Socorro, overshadowing a flat damp bottom.
Changing its direction to the west, it suddenly turns to the east, leaving the convexity at the
foot of the blufl" of the gravel hills, and, winding on westward for some distance, it turns to
the south, and laves, four miles below, the base of "the sand-hills of Parida;" flowing on,
it is lost to view amid the low blufi's of the first plateau, which stretch out to meet it, two miles
below the village. Along the last concavity, is another grove of cottonwood, nearer than the
other to the village, upon a dry, sandy soil ; and on the east side of the river, above and below
"the hills of Parida," are extensive and beautiful groves of the same, covering a low, damp
surface. The valley of the river is well marked in the distance toward botli the north and
the south. From the foot of the mountains, on the west, to the river, is a distance of three
miles; and the slope, extending between those two points, is formed into three plateaux, of
about equal breadth, and of diflerent elevations — dipping toward the river. Tlie upjjer one
has been described. It takes the name of plain, only in a very general sense. Between its
spurs of flattened hills, with precipitous sides, are small flat-bottomed valleys, of the same
extent. All is covered with grama grass — the chondrosium foeneum — a sparse growth of
stunted cedar, the jedeonda, the cactus, and yucca ; and it is the general pasture for the cattle
of Socorro and its neighborhood, from the month of June until March. It seems to be formed
of drift, from the mountains; and its extension to have been limited by the river, which, in
earlier ages of the world, when, perhaps, in greater volume, must have rolled its waves at the
base of it. The second, is a more regular and inclined plain. Formed, by deposition from the
river, and afterwards by detritus from the mountains, it consists of a dry, gravelly loam, and
yields, in addition to the grass — of which there is very little — a heavy growth of artemisia.
Its upper edge is skirted by grist-mills; and upon its lower third and the upper fourth of the
plain below, is found the arable land. Upon its lower third stands the village of Socorro.
The third plateau is of alluvium, more recently from the river, contains a large proportion of
sand, and yields a rank growth of succulent grass. Its surface, in greater part, furrowed with
sluggish a^equias, and pools of stagnant water, is so marshy, during a very wet season, as not
to support the weight of a loaded wagon. It contains a large amount of chloride of sodium
AMONG THE TROOPS IN NEW MEXICO. 421
and nitrate of potassa, and salts of magnesium and calcium, all of wliicli, mechanically mixed,
encrust the surface at dry spots, so that they may he collected with a spoon. The mountain
nearest on the west, is a rough-brown mass of basalt and trap-rock, with which is mingled
granite, porphyry, red sandstone, carboniferous limestone, andselenite; and it is said that
copper ore, and auriferous quartz-rock are found in it. A few stunted cedars grow upon it where
soil obtains; and green grass, seeded, and most luxuriant, may be seen on its east side two-
thirds of the way up to its summit, as early as the month of March. Along its base, on the
east side, are springs of warm and cold water, which, collected into agequias, traverse the first
plateau, turn the grist-mills at the summit of the second, furnish water for all domestic pur-
poses in the village, irrigate the fields and vineyards, and, tinally, are discharged upon the
third plateau, which, more nearly level than the others, too damp to cultivate, spreads out a
beautiful meadow, now throwing off its summer tinge, clear to the river's edge. As it now is,
dotted over with flocks of sheejj, goats, cattle, horses, shepherd boys, and clumps of trees, the
river glimmering here and there, through the autumn foliage, and all bathed in a rich light of
the setting sun, the scene is picturesque indeed.
The village of Socorro is formed by a congeries of plazas, of which, no less than six may be
counted, illy defined, but bounded on some of their sides by mud hovels, containing each a
parcel of squallid wretches who do not "dare to be poor," as inhabitants, and who number, in
the aggregate, about five hundred persons. An irregular lane runs in one part of the place,
and it is pointed to as a street, but without a name; and fronting toward this space, and about
in various directions are some stores. The only prominent object seen at a little distance — be-
yond a little distance nothing is to be seen — is the adobe church, with its two turrets and belfry,
which reminds one forcibly of a large-sized Mississippi steamboat, though not so variegated.
Close around the village, in every direction, are vineyards, and beyond them are fields of
wheat and Indian corn, and orchards of peach. The houses are built of ac?o&e (sun-baked bricks
of mud and straw, 16 inches long, 8 inches wide, and 3 inches thick), and, among the better
classes, consist of several rooms built on the four sides of a small square, the patio. The doors
open on the interior of the square, to which there is access from without by a broad entrance
with folding doors, called the saguan. The thickness of the walls is the length of one, some-
times two, adobes. Plastered externally and within with mud laid on and made smooth by the
hands; interiorly they are dazzlingly white, made so by a whitewash of gypsum, which is
burned in earthen ovens, and ground to powder by the women, on the metate. The latter is
renewed every two or three months, and renders sweet the atmosphere, prevents the breeding of
vermin, and gives an air of comfort that would not be even guessed at by one without. The
houses have never more than one story, which is rarely more than ten feet high. The rooms
are small, generally. The doors are very small, and the windows are scarcely more than
pigeon-holes, sealed with thin transparent laminte of selenite, retained by a cement of lime and
sand. The fire-place and chimney are usually in a corner of the room, and exceedingly small;
the billets of wood are burned with one end resting on its floor and the other up the chimney.
The fire-place and chimney are both projected into the apartment, and thus give nearly all the
heat to tlie interior. The floors are invariably of mud, and are repaired every month or two by
a fresh layer laid on smoothly with the hand. The houses of the common people are without
the ^a^to, and spring uj) without reference to order or plan. All are exceedingly comfortable
in winter and in summer, when they have been so changed as to admit more air and light.
The altitude of the spot, its remoteness from any large body of water, the numerous ranges
of mountains on either hand for hundreds of miles, the universal absence of forests, and a rapid
river coursing down the valley, render the atmosphere rare, lower its temperature, and disturb
it much with winds. The last are cold and piercing in the winter season, and are generally
from a point north of east and west, most frequently from the northwest.
The last frost in the spring of 1850 was on the 5th of May, at wliich time the grape crop was
destroyed; the peach blossoms had been killed the 23d of March ; it was unusually late. The
422 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
first white frost in the fall of the same year was the 19th of Octoher. The last the succeeding
spring, was the 8th of April. The first house-swallow made its appearance the 3d of April, in
1850 and 1851. The mean temperature of that day was 58° in 1850, 39° in 1851. The hiher-
nating animals hegin to show themselves the first of April. They sow wheat the middle of
January. Disembank the grape-vines the first of March, and i)rune and irrigate them the
middle of the month. Plant corn early in April; reap wheat the middle of August; gather
corn tlie first of Octoher, and emhank the grape-vines early in November.
The total amount of precipitation in rain and snow from 1st December, 1849, to 3l8t August,
1851, twenty-one months, was 10.97 inches.
During the series of twenty-one months through which meteorological observations were made,
there is but one day registered in which the sun was not visible. The character of the clouds
during the winter season were stratus and cimiulostratus ; in spring, stratus and cirrus; in
summer, stratus, cirrostratus, and cumulus; during the I'all, circimistances prevented the regis-
try of them. There was an occasional arrangement of the clouds that seemed unusual to the
observer — viz: cumulostratus clouds were arranged in bands or belts, which began in the S.W.
by S. point of the horizon, and diverging until they reached the zenith, then converged to a
point at the horizon N.E. by N. The long diameter of the cumuli, like pillows, which com-
posed the band, was in a direction at right angles to that of the band, pointing to the N.W.
by N. and S.E. by S. Allowance is not made for the declination of the needle. The efi'ect of
electro-magnetic influence, its direction must have depended upon some local cause, since the
length of its constituent parts was in about the direction of the magnetic meridian of the earth.
The view is so little obstructed at Socorro, that clouds at a great altitude may be seen, when
the day is clear, two hundred miles off' on either hand. And these belts appeared to extend
through that great distance. They were observed on four occasions, diff'erent days, in Decem-
ber, 1850; twice in January, 1851, three times in February, once in April, three times in May,
and once in June ; and as often^ jjerhaps, during the early part of the year 1850, but they were
not registered.
Light from the sun, when setting, is often observed, in a clear evening, to pass in broad rays
from the horizon towards the sun, diverge, similarly to the clouds spoken of, over the whole
sky to the longest meridian, then converge to a point of the horizon opposite to the sunset.
The electrical tension of the atmosphere is very great at times, especially after a fall of rain or
of snow, and which has melted rapidly. The dry state of the atmosphere, and the large quan-
tity of salines which the ground contains, surcharge the atmosphere, on such occasions, with
positive electricity, which is sometimes strikingly exhibited. On the morning of the 29th of
December, 1849, snow fell to the depth of two or three inches. It melted rapidly, in a few
hours, and was followed immediately by vivid zigzag lightning and loud thunder. There was
no rain. The day began and ended with an earthquake — there was a shock at 6 a. M., and one
at 8 r. M.
Shocks of earthquakes were frequent during the early part of these observations; and the
mountain nearest on the west, from which emanates a spring of warm water, was evidently, at
times, under the influence of subterraneous heat. On the 11th of December, 1849, there was
one shock; on the 28th, five shocks; on the 29th, two; and on the 30th, one. On the 1st of
January, 1850, there was one shock; on the 2d, two; on the 4th, three; on the 5th, two; on
the 6th, two; one on the 10th; and one on the 12th. The 8th of February there was one shock;
two on the 10th of August; one on the 2d of October; one on the 18th, and one on the 23d of
January, 1851; and one the 13th, and one the 14th of February. In all, twenty-eight shocks
during fifteen successive months. Most of them were severe shocks, as they would have dam-
aged a house of three stories, the usual height in the United States. They were accompanied,
generally, by a rumbling noise. Those that occurred in December were not felt fifteen miles
south of Socorro; and those on the 1st and 2d of January were not felt ten miles to the west, in
the valley between the two ranges of mountains. Nothing could be ascertained relative to the
AMONG THE TEOOPS IN NEW MEXICO. 423
extent of the others. The 30th of December, 1849, snow fell at Socorro to the depth of two or
three inches, yet the day was a bright one at a little village seven miles above, and to the N.
N.E. On the nearest ridge of mountains towards the west, for a mile or two above and below
the warm spring, and including the high cone, the snow was entirely melted during tlie day,
whilst it remained for several days on other parts of the same ridge of more than two thousand
feet less altitude. After every snow the surface mentioned was observed to be bare sooner than
elsewhere. At various points from the mountain to the river, the ground gives to passing
wheels of vehicles a resonant sound, as if from a cavern beneath. Earthquakes are said, by
some of the inhabitants, to be very rare here, and by others, to be of frequent occurrence. It is
difficult to arrive at truth relative to such matters from such hyperbolic people.
The Rio Grande is an accumulation of mountan torrents. Its depth and width are variable.
From the first of May to the latter part of July, the volume of water is greatly increased from
the melting of tin; snow on the mountains farther north. Its breadth then is two hundred to
six hundred yards; it is four to six feet deeper at Socorro, and its current sweeps along with a
force that undermines and destroys hundreds of acres of cultivated land in a single season, and
forms extensive deposits with incredi})le rapidity. Nothing witlistands its impetuosity. Upon
whatever point its ciirrent may be directed — it changes its channel, on an average, once per
annum — there compact clay-banks or lofty gravel-hills crumble into it like sugar. The village
of La Parida lias been gradually moved a thousand yards east of where it originally stood
sixteen years ago. In 1850, its vineyards, orchards, corn and wheat fields, and agequias were
falling into the stream. In 1851 the washings by the rains, from the banks and even the plaza
of the village, and the little increase of the river saved the village that year. Ordinarily it is
about eighty yards wide, and fords for liorses and vehicles are found every few miles. The
water is at all times more or less turbid, but much more so during the season of the flood. That
used for irrigation makes a heavy deposit, which improves the land. Besides the substances
mechanically suspended in it, it contains, in solution, salts of calcium, sodium, potassium, and
magnesium, and is, at times, strongly impregnated with sulphuretted hydrogen gas. The last
was observed from the 15th to the 25th of July, 1850; on the 29th of October, on the 17th of
April, 1851, and from the 23d of April to the 2d of May ; and, on the 25th of April, with
salines.
The New Mexican is, almost invariably, a mestizo. He does not possess the perpendicular
square forehead of the same class in the valley of Mexico ; but has the low, retreating front,
high cheek-bones, and oblique eyes of the surrounding Indian tribes. His shoulders are square,
and of less than the average breadth; the chest prominent; his limbs spindling, and stature
oelow the medium height ; his temperament nervous, and appearance thin and dejected. Like
Achimoenides :
' ' Somewhat between a mortal and a sprite ;
So thin, so ghastly, meager, and so wan,
So bare of flesh, he scarce resembles man."
An exception to this is found in the peon, who is muscular; developed like all physically labor-
ing men. His mind is without a spark of culture, except to pander to the cupidity of the
priests ; without knowledge, beyond the experience of the narrowest sphere of domestic life, he
evinces the painful combination of astuteness with impotency. The forbidding character of his
country, beyond the valley, prevents his wandering from home ; whilst his inherited vanity and
pride and stubbornness, prevent impressions from the few foreign objects that are brought before
him. There are no books among the people; scarcely any at all are taught to read, and fewer
still arc taught to write. Tliey indulge, to the iullest extent, the animal propensities of their
less than semicivilized condition. "The fatal bait of temporary ease and quiet," seems sus-
pended before the imaginations of all; "and to this it may be, in some degree imputed, that
they have found their inordinate indolence exchanged for slavery." Yet, they are more active,
424 REPORT ON THK SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
more industrious, more nearly independent, have more forethought, are braver, and are more
capable of providing for and protecting themselves, than are tlie inhabitants of lower Mexico.
The females arc, generally, homely; yet, at times, strikingly beautiful. They are better de-
veloped, physically and mentally, than the males. They are never educated, rarely taught to
read, and very rarely tauglit to write. Secluded from the (at least outward) display of contend-
ing passions, they cultivate in quietness the kindest emotions of the heart. Tiiey are cheerful ;
have a strong idea of beauty ;'a consuming emotion of love, but it is not constant ; of sympatliy>
which never grows less; of pride, humility, gratitude, remorse, a vivid sense of the ludicorous;
but of sexual virtue their moral education destroys every idea suggested to them by nature:
"rdraa hominis fades, et pulchro pectore virgo
Pube tenus," etc.
The business of their lives is constituted by their domestic duties, and the rigid espionage under
which they live, and the want of consciousness of doing Avrong, impel them with the highest
zest to intrigue.
They marry as early as eleven, and generally between that age and fourteen. The males as
early as their sixteenth year of age.
They are a pastoral and agricultural people. Their country witliout timber, they do not
make fences, but trust their cattle to herders; their sky almost without rain-clouds, they irri-
gate their lands by canals from the river, which last for generations. Thus their labor is con-
iined to the mere tilling the ground. They plant barely sufficient to subsist themselves, in
order to gain more time for idleness. The productions are maize, wheat ; a species of bean, rich
in gluten ; red-pepper ; a species of mammoth squash ; a few onions ; a small quantity of garlic ;
the garden pea, sown broadcast; a few tomatoes, in some sections; grapes, of which there are
two varieties — the black, and muscatel or white of which they make an inferior wine and brandy;
peaches, water melons, cantelopes, and a small quantity of weak, inferior tobacco. In some
sections of the country are found apricots, inferior apples, pears, quinces, and figs. Upon
these they subsist themselves most sparingly. The onions, garlic, and squashes, are con-
sumed before the middle of the winter is past ; the peas, tomatoes, and fruit generally, by the
time they are matured; and maize, wheat, beans, pepper, wine, brandy, and tobacco, scarcely
reach the succeeding crop. Witli these edibles, they mingle the sun-dried, unsalted flesh
of the ox, sheep, and goat, and the fat of them in large proprotion. The milk of the cow,
sheep, and goat, mixed together or not, are freely used; and cheese is precipitated from each
by the stomach of the calf or sheep.
In consequence of the altitude of the country, probably ; of the impure atmosphere in their
illy-ventilated habitations; of their inefficient clothing; want of cleanliness; want of exercise ;
scant and little varied diet ; early marriages and an inherited cachexia, they are born with feeble
constitutions ; cut the first incisor teeth at the end of the first year of age ; walk at two years ;
are weaned at three years, or when the mother becomes obviously enciente ; the females men-
struate at twelve and thirteen ; the milk canines are seen standing, and the permanent molares
appearing at the seventeenth year; at twenty-five they are in the "sere and yellow leaf;" liable
to be, and suffering much when they are, attacked by disease, they pass through life with les-
sened vitality, and rarely attain to very old age. Nature has done a great deal ibr them. Were
they civilized and intelligent, disease would be little known among them.
The diseases which prevail in this vicinity are syjdiilis, scrofula, gonorrhoea, diarrhoea, dysen-
tery, rheumatism, intermittent fever, pleurisy, pneumonia, and rarely typhoid fever. Small-
pox, measles, scarlatina, erysipelas, and whooping-cough, have made their visitations. Tlie
first has left its mark on nearly every face. The people cannot tell when it was among them.
Few have been vaccinated, and a few inoculated. The first four, of the last group, were at-
tended with little fatality; but the whooping-cough was very destructive of children. Erysip-
elas attacked a few during the fall and winter of 1850, and, though the whole face and scalp
were involved, medical aid was rarely called for, and nearly all recovered.
AMONG THK TROOPS IN NEW MEXICO. 425
Syphilis — the tertiary, secondary, and primary forms — are very generally met with. The
writer has met with two cases in which he thinks he has reason to helieve that secondary
syphilis w^as communicated by sexual intercourse.
Gonorrhoea is very frequent, and very general.
Diarrhosa and dysentery occasionally seen, and nearly always traceable to imprudence in diet.
Acute rheumatism, of greater or less violence, is frequent, especially in the months of March,
April, and May, among strangers; very rarely seen among the natives. The former are more
liable to it from want of acclimation, and negligence in protecting themselves on going from
the close warm rooms, into the cold air constantly in motion without. An unusual amount
of materies morbi, from checked secretions, and an overplus of vitality, after a march across the
plains, quickly succeeded by sedentary life, must predispose to the attack.
Chronic rheumatism is almost unknown.
Intermittent fever is very rare; is usually of the tertian type, and yields readily to sulphate
of quinine.
Pleurisy and pneumonia are still more rarely, and typhoid fever scarcely ever seen. Typhus
never.
Diseases of the skin are unknown, except some slight syphilitic eruptions.
Phthisis pulmonalis I have never seen in the country, except in two instances. Once in an
officer of the United States army, and once in an American emigrant. It was developed in
each before he left the United States, and each very gradually improved. One resided at So-
corro, the other at El Paso del Norte.
Their materia medica comprises but few articles. Baths in the warm sjiring are regarded
by them as specific for all diseases which enable the sick to reach it; especially in syphilis (in
all its stages), gonorrhcea, and rheumatism. The spring rises at the base of the nearest
mountains on the west, in a bold stream which flows from under a large mass of volcanic con-
glomerate, and is about three miles distant from the village. The water is limjjid ; and at the
spring, its temperature is 92° Fahrenheit the middle of December, and a little less the middle
of March. It contains in solution, nitrate of potassa and chloride of sodium, and is strongly
impregnated with sulphuretted hydrogen gas. The last is in variable quantity. The water,
when used to drink, produces in those unaccustomed to its use, obstinate constipation and
vomiting, and changes the color of the stools to a darker hue. The quantity of water that
issues is very perceptibly less during the summer; due, probably, to the dryness of the season,
and the absence of snow on the mountains above. The popilote {ephedra occidentalis) is used
in gonorrhoea. It, and local baths, with water from the warm spring, are the only remedies
resorted to in that disease. The taste is terbinthinate and astringent, and is agreeable. It is
a stimulant diuretic, and does not constipate the bowels. It is pre^jared for use by macerating
two ounces of the branches, cut into small pieces, in a pint of hot water, in a close vessel, for
three hours, and then straining. A pint of the infusion may be drank during the day. It
acts with surprising promptness, and is an efficient and valuable medicine. The shrub is an
evergreen, and grows in great profusion throughout the country. The practice of the art is
entirely in the hands of the women, who employ, in addition to the above, incantations and
ecclesiastical rites, pictures, and carved and moulded images of saints are placed around the
patient and invoked. The most potent of all is the "Niiia de Atocha." She is worn around
the necks of the whole population. The character of a physician is entirely unknown to them.
None of the cryptogamic plants have been observed here, except a few species of mould upon
barley, bread, pastry, and pickles; and very rarely at all.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT DEFIANCE
By Assistant Surgeon W. J. H. White : 1S53.
This post, approximating latitude 35° 44' north and longitude 109° 15' 30" west, is situated in
a narrow cailada of light argillaceous soil, which is covered w-ith a moderate growth of short
S. 96 54
426 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
grass, chiefly sesleria dactyloides, and in a few jdaces is well adapted to garden cultivation.
Caiioncito honito, abont four hundred yards from the quarters, opens into this on the west, its
sandstone walls being from three hundred to four liundred feet high, length one mile and a
quarter, and average width seventy yards. A small stream of good water flows along in the
bottorh, which is composed of a boggy soil that yields a rank growth of vegetation.
The barracks are built upon a square of level groimd, destitute of trees, fronting a parade of
about one acre and a half, and constructed of hewn pine logs placed one above the other, with
the interstices chinked in with mud ; the roofs and the floors are of dirt ; and the means of vent-
ilation scanty.
A view of the surrounding country presents a succession of lofty mountains and extensive
valleys. The former consist mainly of sandstone without organic remains, and are inter.spersed
with a sparse growth of tall pine, pinus edulis, an undergrowth of scrub-oak, scrub-cedar, fal-
lugia paradoxa, several varieties of cacti, and the yucca augustifolia. In the latter a carpet-
ing of grass is variegated during the summer with manj^ species of plants, as the rosa parviflora,
helianthus annuus, chenopodium album, red, and white geranium, aster, gentianjB, Artemesia,
Oenothera biennis, humulus lupulus, portulacca oleracea, sida abutilon, and a species of solanum
or potato.
The animals are the black-tailed deer, dicranocerus furcifer, canis nubilus, arctomys ludovi-
ciana, panther, rabbit, and squirrels. The reptiles include various species of the lacerta and
crotallus. Only a few common species of birds show themselves, as the corvus corax, ectopistes
Carolinensis, quiscalus versicolor, turdus migratorius, charadrius vociferus, picus auratus, ves-
pertilo murinus, the turkey, the wren, and the swallow. In pools near by is found a peculiar
animal of the batrachian order, supposed to be the siredon.
The climate is cold and dry ; and although the thermometrical observations do not show a
very low mean of temperature generally, yet the transitions from heat to cold are often sudden ;
hence, the effect produced upon the system is felt more keenly than in a climate where the mean
temperature may be equal, but the transitions gradual. At this season such changes are more
frequently connected with southwest winds. A local cause, contributing in no small degree to
lower the temperature here, may be found in the caiioncito so close by. From an experiment
late in the fall I noticed that at near the same hours of observation, wind north and east, tlie
thermometer was constantly, on an average, from 10° to 12° lower in this caiioncito than at ray
quarters. Now, from the conformation and direction of its walls, a wind from the westward,
or anv intermediate point south, coming in contact and passing through this defile is reflected
directly upon the garrison ; so that from the short distance the cold air travels, it must bring
with it a considerable depressing influence upon the thermometer here.
In the last quarter, 1851, the jtrominent diseases were diarrhoea, acute dysentery, catarrh, and
typhoid fever ; of the latter, three cases terminated fatally. Predisposing and exciting causes
of these were exceedingly rife; besides tlie tiresome marches the men had just accomplished,
having returned from an expedition against the Navajoes, they were exposed to the inclement
weather, at hard labor, engaged in preparing quarters for themselves, and subsisting upon
poor food.
The records for the first quarter (1852) show one case of typhoid fever; two deaths having
occurred — one from hyjiertrophy of the heart, and the other from injuries (internal) received by
a fall.
In the second quarter we have mild diarrhoea and dysenteria acuta, prevalent ; yielding
readily to ordinary treatment. I find in the third quarter that, in the majority of those diseases,
the cause proceeded from eating the fruits of the cactus opuntia and yucca augitstifoUa. The
several cases of intermittent fever in this quarter (third) were among recruits who had been
much afii'ected previously with it on the plains, or in the States.
In the last quarter, disease still occupies its favorite seat in the digestive organs and respi-
ratory system, being chiefly catarrhus and diarrhoea ; one case of pneumonia proving fatal.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN NEW MEXICO.
427
Several cases of paronychia deserve, perhaps, particular attention, from the fact of their
having followed each other so soon. It usually attacked the thumb and fore-finger, a short
distance from the nail, preceded by slight constitutional disturbance. Out of five cases, three
were of the sub-cutaneous cellular tissue; two of the deep fibrous tissues; there were several
mild cuticular cases not taken on the sick report.
On those affected, who reported early, free incisions into the part, and the application of warm
jioultices afterwards, invariabl}' put a stop to the disease, with one exception, which occurred in
a man of debilitated constitution, who recovered after suffering much in general health, and
the loss of the third phalange of the fore-finger.
With regard to the Navajo Indians in this vicinty, I have had no opportunity of observing
disease among them; and, from what I can learn verbally, their maladies appear to be exceed-
ingly simple. About eight years ago rubeola maligna made its appearance among them, di-
minishing their numbers greatly. In tlie treatment of cejjhalalgia and fevers, they practice
local and general blood-letting ; the instrument used being only a sharp piece of flint; in scari-
fying the temples for the former disease, they apply the mouth to suck out the blood after
making incisions ; in general blood-letting, the}' confine themselves to no particular part, but
only take care to select a small vein, anywhere over the body.
They are a robust and active people, usually inhabiting the country about Chai, Lunecha,
and Chusca ; living in huts constructed of poles put up in a conical form, or in the cavities of
rocks. Agriculture is carried on, to some extent, among them ; raising from the soil maize
and melons chiefly. They also manufacture, from wool, blankets of a very close texture, which,
with the leggings and moccasins, form their sole raiment.
DISEASES.
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
RATIO PER 1,000 or MEAN STRENOTH.
Treated.
Died.
First quarter.
5,887
5,285
6,126
6,195
2,552
2,523
3,195
3,597
73 ! 416
36 477
12.4
Second quarter. _> ._
6.8
29
35
522
580
4.7
5.6
5,873
11,867
173
2,020
29.5
Gun-shot wounds excluded.
11,738
139
1,999
23.6
The average annual proportion of cases of disease occurring in New Mexico, to the mean
strength of the forces, was 2.02 to 1 ; and the ratio of deaths, 1 to 33.94, or 2.9 per cent. The
proportion of deaths to cases of disease was 1 to 68.60, or 1.45 percent.
Excluding gun-shot wounds, and deaths therefrom, we have the proportion of cases treated
to number of troops 1.99 to 1 ; of deaths to troops, 1 to 42.4, or 2.3 per cent; and of deaths to
diseases, 1 to 84.44, or 1.18 per cent.
(28
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
FEVEKS.
Quarters.
Strength
Diseases.
Febris continua communis
Fcbris intermittens quotidiana. .
Febris intermittens tcrtiana
Febris intermittens quartana
Febris rcmittens
Febris typhus
Febris typlius icterodes
Total
5,887
Cases. Deaths
5,285 I C,126 6,195
Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths.
5,873
Cases. Deaths.
ft) €)
OS
04m
28
63
63
1
13
7
175
24
49
89
11
15
6
54
53
C6
5
52
20
41
103
87
68
10
147
268
305
17
148
43
194
250
309
928
1
1
1
19
1 in 147
1 in 2G8
in 305
Oin 17
1 in 148
1 in 2.2
in
25
45.6
52
2.9
25
7.3
22
1 in 42
158
Eruptive fevers. — Variola and varioloid have proved very fatal to the Indians and Mexican
population of New Mexico, but comparatively few cases have occurred among the troops.
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters.
Strenprth .
5,887
5,285
Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths.
6,126
Cases. Deaths
6,195
Cases. Deaths,
5,873
Cases. Deaths
"a
OS
o«—
"C o
Cholera Asiatica
Diarrhoea
Dysenteria acuta
Dysenteria clironicA
Enteritis
Hepatitis acuta
Hepatitis chronica
Obstipatio
All other diseases of this
system
Total.
203
44
5
3
5
83
106
449-
12
278
82
80
117
567
557
110
15
3
2
1
120
191
999
513
139
25
2
1
1
86
144
911
10
1551
375
52
5
9
7
369
558
2926
14
3
8
2
1
31
in
1 in 111
1 in 125
1 in 6
2 in 5
1 in 9
in 7
in 369
1 in 186
1 in 94
264
63
8.8
0.8
1.5
1.1
63.8
95
498
AMONG THE TROOPS IN NEW MEXICO.
429
DISEASES OF THE KESPIEATOKT SYSTEM.
Quarters .
Strenfrth .
5,S87
5,285
6,126
C. 195
5, 873
Bronchitis acuta et chronica..
Catarrh us.--
Plithisis pulmonalis
Pleuritis
Pneumonia
All other diseases of this
system
Tptal
Kheumatismus .
36
293
2
32
18
26
407
187
Deaths. Cases.
Deaths. Cases.
28
144
4
34
17
18
8 245
172
7
86
30
10
141
157
Deaths. Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths.
20
1
91
3
350
873
2
8
3
29
125
11
3
54
12
13
67
2
1 in 30
in 873
1 in 2.6
in 125
1 in 4.5
1 in 33
15. 5
148
1.3
21
9.2
11.4
425
1218 20
231
747
1 in 61 : 207
1 in 373 127
I
Assistant Surgeon McParlin, in transmitting his report of the sick at Las Vegas for Decem-
ber, 1849, remarks that, "Since the middle of December this and the adjoining towns have
been visited with an epidemic catarrh of quite a malignant character. Among the native popu-
lation it has raged with a mortality as great as that ascribed to it by the English writers. The
oldest residents speak of this as a disease new to the country. It is announced by a succession
of rigors, with great febrile depression, violent pain in the head and ears, and a severe coryza,
with copious defluxion from the eyes and nose ; six hours after, a cough and limited expectora-
tion harrass the patient; the slightest jar accompanying it, occasioning the most poignant dis-
tress, referred to the vertex and superior occipital region. In some cases, inflammation, tume-
faction, and pain of the cervical and facial glands call for alleviation, respiration and degluti-
tion being difficult therefrom. In others, no external swelling or discoloration is apparent ;
but a malignant cynanche inflicts far greater distress, and seems, for the second day, the promi-
nent ailment. The third day, tumefaction and redness aifect the tissues over the nasal and
malar bones, and pain is complained of across the bridge of the nose, and in its foss^ extend-
ing along the infra orbital space. This symptom accompanied all the cases. Early prostration,
severe jactitation, and wakefulness are present; and on the fourth or fifth day (perhaps with
an alleviation of the cerebral symptoms) the patient is seized with an intense pain in the epi-
gastrium, with great tenderness, on pressure, in the region of the ensiform cartilage and of the
sternum ; the recti muscles become hard, giving the sensation of a board under the hand. This
symptom is prominent in the Mexican cases submitted to my notice, and is often preliminary
to dissolution."
The troops in various portions of New Mexico have been afflicted with scurvy; the result of
the usual causes of that disease — the use of salt meats and absence of all vegetables. With the
cultivation of company and post gardens, the disease has almost entirely disappeared.
ABSTRACTS
PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
OCCURRING AMONG THE TROOPS
IN NEW MEXICO.
432
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
FIRST QUARTER.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
185.3.
1854.
8TRBN0TH.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EA!"ES.
IMkAN STRENCTII
259.
815.
1.U70.
1,059.
1,349.
1,435.
5,887.
SPECIFIC DISEASES. Cases
Eruptive fevers <
I
f
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
gestive system.
Diseases of the respira
tory system. 1
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
Diseases of the serous <
and exhaleiit vessels. '
Diseases of the fibrous &
muscular structures.
Abscesses and ulcers.
Wounds and injuries..
Miscellaneous .
Fcbris conlinua communis . , I I
Fcbris inter, quotidiana . . . . '
Febris interniiltens tertiana. 4
Febris intermittens qtiartana'
Febris rcmiitcns 9
Febris typhus
Erysipelas
Variola
Varioloid
Diarrho-a 4
Dyscntoria acuta 1
Dysenteria chronica '
Enteritis
Hepatitis acuta ; 3
Hepatitis chronica '
Obslipaiio 2
All other diseases G
Bronchitis acuta et chronica
Catarrhus 4
Phthisis pulmonalis
Plcurilis 4
Pneumonia 2
All other diseases
Cephalalgia
Delirium tremens
Epilepsia |
Neuralgia I
AM other diseases I 1
Gonoirhffia 12
Strictura urethra?
Syidiilis primitiva ' 14
Syphilis consecutiva
All other diseases 2
Ascites
All other diseases '
Pernio 1
-{ Podagr:
Rheumatisnms .
Fistula
2
Phlegmon et abscessus.
Ulcus
Anibustio
Ainputatio
Concussio cerebri
Contusio
Fractura
Luxatio
Punilio
Sub-luxatio
Vulnus incisum
Vulnus laccraium. ... ..
Vulnus punctuni
Vulnus sclopeticum ....
Debilitas
Ebrietas
Hrmorrhois
Hernia
IVlorbi cutis
IVIorbi ociili
Scorbutus
All other diseases
Total ,
Died. ICases.' Died. jCases. Died. Cases. I Died. Cases. Died. Cases.
9
18
10
5
13
4
.1 18
• ! 33
I 1
Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
58
11
1
1
13
96
7
43
10
3
5
4
3
22
3
11
6
10
40
8
S8
3
2
35
14
9
15
6 450
9 ; 479
15
10
14
3
83
1 I
1 !
13
23
4
36
1
2
3
7
3
1 i 31
16
4
10 I.
16 '.
10 .
1
1
30
23
15
1
27
3
7
14
11
3
2
1
4
5
1
3
e
5
30
430 j II 411
3
9
16
17
8
45
5
4
6
1
2
19
4
37
691
63
63
1
13
7
19
5
4
203
44
5
3
5
83
106
36
293
2
32
18
26
'12
13
5
16
12
109
4
58
4
10
1
187
2
129
79
16
2
3
170
19
3
3
44
62
64
16
59
14
13
25
8
9
61
36
108
28 (2,552
AMONG THE TROOPS IN NEW MEXICO.
OCCURRING AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN NEW MEXICO.
433
Years
SECOND QUARTER.
AGOBE
BTREn
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852. 1853. 1854.
OTH.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean strength
243.
727.
1,042.
1,060. i 1,164. 1,049. 5,285.
SPECIFIC DISEASES. |
Cases., Died. jCases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died. Cases.
Died. I"*""'
cases.
Total
died.
Febris continua communis .
1
4
12
15
4
9
1
3
,
4
14
10
4
2
5
7
1' : ^
8 ' 10
34
49
89
Fevers
Febris intermittens tertiana.
Febris intermillcnsquartana
2
19 '
36
3
t
2 3
1 IS
1.
1
1
3
'i
6
5
2
1
''™'"™
:::.::;::::.
i i
■ 1
'
5 1
47
1
1
1
57
20
58
40
1
69
2
4
1
42
278
82
7
3
17
3
1
1
Dyscnteria chronica
1
1
Uiseases of the organs J
::::::::::":::::"
connected with the di- |
1
1
1 ::.::
3
gcstive system.
1 1
1
I
Obstipatio
1 1 10
4 25
20
19
1
14
1
23
19
4
38
1
15
37
3
28
1
3
3
1
3
o
2
13
25
4
13
19
10
12
33
20
33
1
80
117
28
1
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
Catarrhuw
Phthisis pulmonalis
1
7 ' 24
1 1
10 8
2 I 2
1
1
1
144
34
1
Diseases of the respira-.
4
4
4
5
2
: ::::::
1
1
1
1
1
1
5
2
5
1
34
3
7
13
8
tory system.
1
1
17
18
21
16
8
36
12
156
11
58
69
SO
5
1
U
3
1
2
2
1
21
Cephalalgia
L
2
1
1
9
1
2
'
3
40
1
14
18
12
4
nervous system.
1
2
25
:
9
7
1
1
3
11
2
Diseases of the urinary,
and genital organs.
9
4
1
10
6
12
■ Syphilis conseculiva
1
1
1
Diseases of the serous and j
1
1
3
1
exhalent vessels. '
Diseases of the fibrous &
Podam^a... . '
1
muscular structures.
; Rheumatismus
17
29
37
25
34
40
172
Abscesses and ulcers . . . . '
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
3
2
19
10
2
27
5
2
18
22
21
13
15 •
14 .■
103
66
13
1
1
5
1
4
|------
1
43
6
1
18
5
28
2
33
33
161
9
6
1
1
Wounds and injuries
4 1
1
5 \------
7
1
8
4
, 3
6
6
6
8
7 ; 1 12 41
. Vulnus incisuiii
V'ulnus taceratuin
1
6
12
3
7
1
9
10
3 1
.5 1
31
35
14
21
n
24
46
2
14
64
144
102
] Vulnus ^clopeticum
Debititas
!
.. .. ! 4
2
1
4
4
1
3
1
2
5
4
1
i
1
1
3 ;
2 1
1
Ha-niorrhois
2 1
13
11
2
3
' , »
Miacellancous
IMorbi cutis
2
6
20
10
1
5
10
70
i "
3
2
1
1
20
9
28
1
3 1
13 i
3
17
1
12 1
Scorbutus
23
IS
6
32
3
S
4
Total
130
5
40.'i
10
|475
10
528
1
512
4
473
6 2.523
3S
-65
434
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
Years
THIRD QUARTER.
CLASSES OF DIS-
1849. 1850. ISril. 1 1852. 1853. I 185J.
STKI£NOTU.
EASES.
Mean sTBEaoxii
684.
f:3. 1.241. 1,168. 1,094. 1 1,063.
6,126.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases. Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Toliil
cases.
Tciial
died.
f
Febri.« continua communis..
Febris inter, quniidiana
Febris intennitteiis tertiana.
Fehris intermittens quartann
1
14
5
13
l.'i
18
2
6
17
i 2
' 7
4
1
1 I 4
2 ! 5
1 1
17
3
9
2
2
4
1
8
12
18
13
2
12
54
53
66
5
63
20
21
1
5
11
1
2
21
11
1
2
8
1
7
1
1
5
r
89
7
3
1
88
22
2
100
2
81
25
2
1
104
13
5
1
1
557
3
25
4
1
110
Diseases of ilic organs
connected with the (ii--{
gestive system.
Dysenterin chronica
15
3
2
I
120
191
7
86
a
1
1
1
Obstipaiiii
2U
10
11
52
1
13
34
41
3
20
26
17
38
9
24
2
16
1 Uronchitis, acuta ct chronica
! 1
21
5
13
19
Diseases of the rcspira .
3
. .. i
4
9
1 2
u
2
5
1
13
4
1
30
8
10
36
16
19
12
176
8
97
64
60
2
7
tory system.
1
2
13
1
3
2
1
1
I
2
14
2
3
4
2
3
1
29
3
18
4
13
1
1
1
1
1
2
25
1
12
16
6
1
4
5
1
...::: i
1
Diseases oi the brain nnd
nervous (system.
1 Epilepsia
Neuralgia
2
2
51
1
1
9
3
31
3
3
27
1
21
14
12
1
2
r
3
Diseases of the uriiiar>',
17
1
4
1
2
20
15
10
1
1
1
9
14
13
and genital organs.
1
Disease:* of the serous (
and exhalent vessels. <
Syphilis consecutiva
1
1
3
Difteascs of the fibrous &
]
muscular structures.
20
1
18
30
1
31
1
22
16
3
1
1
43
2
1
11
15
8
6
1
7
10
15
3
3
10
8
33
39
....
19
157
1
160
80
16
3
1
207
11
4
48
55
48
23
37
18
43
44
7
12
1
1
Abscesses and ulcers
Phlfgnion el absccssus
Ulcus
42
11
29
8
1
1
28
lU
1
17
21
3
22
14
5
1
1
1 4
Aniputatin
1
1
1
Cnntu.^io
18
1
1
4
3
4
1
5
2
39
1
31
1 1
41
3
1
10
13
17
1
2
3
r.
5
1
1
9
4
35
3
1
13
10
4
7
23
1
16
4
Wounds and injuries
1
8
5
7
4
3
2
1
4
2
1
12
33
1
1
2
9
8
4
4
3
3
13
1
1
8
21
14
1
1
1
I
1
Vulnus sclopeticum
3
1
3
Miscellaneous -
1 j
6
14 ; 1
17 :
5
21
5
37
66 j
85
149
a
1 [ 41
a
Total
Ti'J ' 5
53-1
C 1 520
6
596
B
614
2
552
3
3,195
39
AMONG THE TROOPS IN NEW MEXICO.
OCCURRING AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN NEW MEXICO.
435
FOURTH QUARTER.
1849. IS
JO.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENOTU.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mba.n strength
619.
1,106.
1,034.
1,062.
1,218.
1,156.
6,195.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Oases.
Died.
Cases.
i ' ■
Died. Cases. Died. Cases.
Died.
Total: Tiital
cases.' died.
Fevers
Febriscontinua communis .
Febris inter, quoiidiana
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana
Febris rcmittens
8
20
16
8
23
27
1
1
8
6
8
3
17
7
10
28
8
4
9
21
41
103
87
1
1
7
8
2
13
1
1
1
....
52
1
1
68
10
31
......
5
4
3
1 j 1 '....
5
Eruptive fevers
Erysipelas
10
2
, 3
1
6
2
6
9
Varioloid
L ..
7
r
Cholera Asiatica
'
57
53
1
1
1
123
29
1
1
1
1
1
SO
18
5
3
76
18
8
1
61
5
1
1
1
116
16
9
139
25
2
1
1
86
144
2
1
1
Diseases of llic organs
1 Dysenteria chronica
connected with tlicdi-'
1
1
19
22
4
93
{
Restive system.
7
14
39
10
84
1
9
4
3
4
2
2
2
3
37
2
12
5
13
I
13
33
13
22
20
11
Bronchitis, acuta ct chronica
34
aiO
2
29
11 3
13
24
15 1 2
7 I
16 '
15 '^
1
1
2
Diseases of liie respira- .
6
1
1
8
4
3
1
8
4
o
1
1 1
6
5
1
tory system.
I
1
1
S
......
5
1
.....
Diseases of the brain and .
ner\-ous system.
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
Diseases of the serous t
and exhalent vessels, t
Diseases of the fibrous 8t '
muscular structures. [
i 3 1 1 i
Epilepsia
1
1
4
5
; 38
1
1
2
2
27
3
3
I
■ All other diseases
2 1
1 2
19
22
1
11
1
5
165
4
86
71
So
I
1
10
19
8
13
1
j Syphilis consecutiva
j All other diseases ....
! Ascites
24
13
9
1
1
9
i "
[
2
7
j
1
3
30
1
231
2 12 '
[
8
.. 1 1
Poda"ra
t
I
Rhcuniatismus
33 1 49
33
31
12
1
1
35 I SR
Fistula
1
2
38
9
1
29
13
1 !
3
193
81
12
3
a
296
18
8
43
68
73
18
12
12
35
47
7
Abscesses and ulcers
Phlegmon et abscessus
32
12
3
1 ' =8
17 '
35
18
1
1
1
2 i -. i-
1
1
57
4
3
2
8
9
3
1
3
6
9
1
15
1
1
46
3
1
3
12
20
4
2
1
6
2
43
R.
'■:,
1
S
2 1 1 ■;
3
3
11
11
16
4
7
1
9
9
1
Wounds and injuries.,.. ■
1
9
i
5
7
7
2
1
3
1
5
3
1
U
S
16
! Vulnus incisum
1 Vulnus laceraium
21 .:::.:
s 1
9
If:
2 ■ .;
3
1
1 Vulnus sclopcticum
3
9
7
S
1
1
7
11
Hi'mia
5
23
1 i 3
11 . .. t 14
10
»
40 1
9
18
n
1
11
13
14
i 3 1
11 : 23
45
Total •.
35
449
5
735
12
584
7
522
4
531
3
7T6
4
.1,597
CALIFORNIA.
SOUTHERN DIVISION.
Following to a certain extent the plan of classifying the military stations into regions having
similar climatological- features, the posts on the Pacific slope will be considered in three sub-
divisions — southern, middle, and northern. The first two include the whole State of California
— the southern being all that portion lying south of the thirty-seventh parallel of latitude, and
the middle the portion north of that line. The northern division embraces the Territories of
Oregon and Washington.
In the southern division the troops have occupied Fort Yuma, San Diego, San Luis Eey,
Eancho del Chino, Rancho de Jurupa, Fort Tejon, Monterey, and Fort Miller.
FORT YUMA.
"Fort Yuma is situated on a high rocky liill on the west bank of the Colorado, opposite the
mouth of the Rio Gila, and eighty miles from the head of the Gulf of California. The valley
of the Colorado averages seven miles in width, and is bounded on either side by rocky barren
mountains and sand-hills, which separate it from the immense deserts by which it is surrounded.
This post was established in February, 1852, and for a time the soldiers were in the field oper-
ating against Indians, in which duty they underwent an unusual amount of fatigue and expo-
sure, being subjected to long marches under an almost tropical sun, and that without water, and
to the cold and chilly nights of March, April, and May; while the difficulties in tracking the
enemy through almost impenetrable thickets, and over the ever-changing sands of the desert,
were almost insurmountable." {Quarterly report of Assist. Surgeon J. J. Milliau : 1852 )
The principal number of cases of diarrhoea, dysentery, and scorbutus reported in the abstract
for 1852 occurred at this post, the men being for a time destitute of vegetables, and deprived of
the ordinary necessaries of life.
Fort Yuma is noted for its excessive temperature and absence of rain. The average mean
temperature for the year is T3°.62, for the summer 89°. 95, the mercury occasionally rising to
116°. The mean annual amount of rain is only 3.24 inches. Although such is the official
record of meteorological observations at this post, it appears that the actual temperature is
even more excessive than above stated. In acknowledging the receipt of a copy of the "Army
Meteorological Register," in June, 1856, Assistant Surgeon H. R. Wirtz writes to the Surgeon
General as follows:
"I beg leave to remark that I have been surprised at the low maximum temperatures during
the summer season assigned to Fort Yuma, as they are not at all in accordance with the private
observations taken by officers of the post at other situations than the hospital. The temperature,
I have been informed on the very best authority, has been as high, in June and July, as 12-1°,
and yet I find no such record in the published tables.
"In endeavoring to seek a reason for such a wide discrepancy, I questioned my hospital stew-
ard closely with regard to the manner in which the observations had been taken previous to my
arrival. He informs me that, for several years back, the thermometrical record has been kept
by him from a thermometer suspended in the coolest part of the hospital, and it always denoted
438 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
the lowest possible temperature that could be obtained in that building. The hospital was built
of adobes, and covered with rushes and mud, and the floor was constantly kept damp by sprink-
ling witli water. Now, any record kept in such a building must be iallacinus, and it gives no
idea of the ab.'^dhile teui]ieiatuic of tlie atmos]il;ore. My steward also informs me tluit he fre-
quently observed a difl'eience of 10° between the thermometer suspended in the damp ward of
the hosiiital and another one hanging on a post in front of the hospital, completely shaded and
lirotected from leticcled rays.
"I cannot think, therefore, that the thermometrical record for previous years can be relied
on, nor that Fort Yuma has received its full share of justice, as the hottest military post on the
continent of Nortli America, and, perhaps, in the world. Although this spring we have had
very cold winds, the thermometer, as I now write, stands at 113°, and it is not considered hot
here until the mercury has risen some 10° to 12° above this point.
"Hereafter, I will see that the record is kept in the most unexceptionable manner; aiid if a
difference be perceived between the observations of this summer and previcTus ones, I hope it will
be assigned to the proper cause.
"I have had the thermometer suspended on a post, in a passage-way between two sets of offi-
cer's quarters. The passage-way is 24 feet wide and over 50 feet long, completely shaded by a
good roof extending from one set of quarters to the other. The thermometer is consequently 12
ieet from either building, and cannot be affected by the walls it faces, so that it receives no
reilected heat, and a free current of air passes over it."*
MEDICAL TOrOGTiAPHY AKD DISEASES OF SAN DIEGO.
By Assistant Surgeon John E. Summers : 1852.
The military post at San Diego is situated near the head of a valley, perhaps three-quarters
to one and a half mile in width, which runs W.S.W. and E.N.E., six miles distant from the
old Picsidio K.E., and eight miles from the sea-shore W.S.W. The valley opens out on a
small plain of some two or three miles in extent near the town, and running to Punta Falsa.
The height of tlie Iiills and table-land on cither side of the valley is about 250 feet.
Some 15 or 20 miles to the east of the post is a range of mountains running north and south,
broken in places, with some very jiretty valleys intervening, which mountains extend over a
distance in width some 40 miles, and bound the desert on the west side of Rio Colorado. The
general aspect of the countrj' is barren from June until December, at which time vegetation
generally sets in.(?)
The coldest month in the year is December, (thermometer 34°, F., the lowest observation
taken in the last three years) ; and the warmest weather is in July, August, and early part of
September; and the most agreeable month in the year is February.
The diseases which have occurred at this post have not been influenced ^par/^cwZar??/ by the
climate. In the year 1840 (as ascertained, from the mi.«sion books and the oldest inhabitants)
there were 2,000 (Mexicans?) and between 600 and 800 Indians belonging to this mission (San
Diego); there are now between 300 and 400 — men, women, and children. In the year 18^2 or
1843 the small-pox killed much more than one-half of the Indians on the coast of California, and
is now dreaded more by them than any other disease. Venereal diseases are the next most fatal,
and perhaps, in a succession of years,>kill many more even than the small-pox ever did. Next
to venereal diseases are the diseases of the chest, which kills very many of them. In some j)ar-
ticidur places they suffer from intermittent and bilious fevers, of which many die; but in this
immediate vicinity a case of intermittent or remittent fever is seldom ever seen^ imless contracted
elsewhere.
° The latest monthly register received at the Surgeon General's ofiice from Assistant Surgeon Wirtz, at Fort Yuma, is
for July, 1S5G. The thermometrical record is as follows: Mean for the month, at 7 a. m., 88.80; at 2 r. M., 108.12; at 9 p.
M. 91.09. Average daily mean for the month, 95.36 ; maximum, IIG; minimum, 80. At 3 o'clock p. M. the thermometer
is usually fiom 1° to 3° higher than at 2 p. m. July is u.sually the hotted month at Fort Yuma.^C.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN CALIFORNIA. 439
SAK LUIS REY, KAXCHO DEL CHINO, AND RAXCHO DE JURUPA.
San Luis Ret. — The ])osition occupied by tlie troops is in the town of that name, about forly
miles northwest from San Diego. It is situated in a wide valley opening to the sea, and but
four or five miles from it.
Raxciio del Chixo — Tiie position thus designated is in a wide vallev, near the Rio Smta
Ana. thirty five miles from the coast, and one hundred and twenty miles nortli of San Diego.
The ''ranch" on which the post is located covers nine square leagues, but the valley, sur-
rounded by hills, extends hundreds of miles, presenting an almost iminterrupted view in the
absence of foliage. In summer there is very little water in the streams, or living gr.ass on the
plains, though in winter the whole country is irrigated by mountain torrents and falling
showers. The climate is mild, as a general thing, though occasionally very warm; the air
pure and dry. [Quarlcrhj reports of Assistant Surcjeon AcJkins.)
Raxcito de Jurl'pa. — The troops stationed at Rancho del Chino were transferred to Rancho do
Jurupa in September, 1852. The new position is in the valley of the Santa Ana, which is from
tliree to three and a half miles wide, terminating on either hand in rocky, rugged hills. Through
the centre runs the Santa Ana or San Bernardino river, a turbid stream two and a half or three
feet deep in summer, with a rapid current, and an average width of twenty yards. The banks
are abrupt, some eight or ten i'eet high, and for some hundred yards level and covered with
Cottonwood, alder, and a species of willow, whose freshness and verdure strikingly contrast
with the parched country around. Beyond this the surface ascends to the hills in steps or with
a gradual slope. The soil is dry, light, and sandy, but, properly irrigated, exceedingly pro-
ductive. The water everywhere soft and sweet. The position is healthy. (Quarterly report
of Assistant Surgeon R. 0. Abbott.)
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF MONTEREY, CALIFO;;NIA.
By Assistant Surgeon William S. King : 1S52.
Forty leagues from San Francisco, and upon the shores of iJMonterey bay, is situated Monte-
rey, probably the most beautiful town on all the coast of California. In all that constitutes
beauty of scenery, derived from a proper proportion of woodland, water, hills, and distant
mountains, Monterey will bear a comparision with other places of more celebrity; and its
claims in this respect are acknowledged by all travellers. The houses (mostly adobe) are built
on a broad, gentle slope of land, about two miles from Point I'inos, the. southern extren)ity of
the bay. They are scattered over an extent of three-quarters of a mile, and mirrored in the
placid waters of the bay, stand in bold relief against a back-ground of extensive forest. Tlie
hills in the rear increase in height as they run to the southeast, till, at a distance of forty miles,
tliey are merged in the high mountains of the coast range. The northern shore of the bay is
twenty miles distant, bending so iar to the west that the Pacific is not visible from any i)art of
the town. Tiie jieninsula intervening between the bay and the Pacific shore is covered by a
fine growth of tall and stalely jsines, with a few scattering oaks. About a hundred yards irom
the southern shore of the ba}', on a level xvith it, and skirting the eastern edge of the town, is
a low, flat, sandy plain, in the centre of which is a lagoon, near half a mile in length, by onc-
eiglith in width. Further to the east, in the same plain, and nearly parallel with the shore of
the bay, are two other lagoons, of a large size, and at a distance of one and two miles from the
town. Beyond the last lagoon the laud rises gradually by a circuitous elevation for about si.x
miles, and from thence by a re<ular descent to the Salinas river — a large stream emptying into
the bay about eight miles east from Monterey. Beyond this river are what is called the Salinas
plains, a broad, level prairie, nine njiles wide, extending to the low hills of the San Juan
mountains.
During the prevalence of the high tides in the spring, the water of the bay flows into the
440 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
lagoon at the edge of the town, and kecjis it full; Init at other seasons, particularly at the
latter part of the dry season, the waters of the lagoon recede towards the centre, leaving a good
deal of vegetable matter exposed to the action of the sun, the odor from which is far from
agreeable when sufficiently near to inhale it. The water of this lagoon is so brackish at all
seasops of the year that cattle will not drink it.
Three miles south of Monterey is Carmel valley, watered by a river of the .same name which
empties into the Carmel bay. The soil is rich and alluvial, and adapted to agriculture. Car-
mel and Salinas valleys are the only points now under cultivation in the vicinity of Monterey.
Just beyond Carmel valley is Point Lobos, a promontory on the coast, celebrated for the num-
ber of seals and sea-lions always to be found there. In Carmel valley is situated the mission
of San Carlos, founded in 1770 by Padre Junipero Serra, a Franciscan friar. The old church
is still in good repair, while the other buildings have in a great measure fallen to ruin. At
this mission is an orchard of pear-trees in fine bearing, being the only Iruit that appears to
thrive well in this vicinity.
Monterey redoubt, a few hundred yards to the north of the town, is placed upon an elevation
of 140 feet above the bay. It is bounded by a picket-work, and encloses a sufficient area for a
parade-ground, and a garden for the use of the troops. On the side of the redoubt next the
bay is a battery, mounting twenty heavy guns. The quarters for the officers and men are built
of logs, neatly plastered and whitewashed, and are commodious and comfortable.
As the climate and character of disease at the fort and in the town of Monterey are precisely
alike, it will be understood that both are included in my remarks. The population of Monte-
rey is from six to eight hundred, three-fourths of whom are nativ^Californians.
Climate. — The atmosphere is humid, the temperature agreeably warm and equable; the
prevalent winds are sea-breezes from the west and north; the land winds from the east and
south are mtich less prevalent, blow less strongly, and may frequently be detected alone by the
uncomfortable feelings they produce, without reference to tlie weather-vane. There is one rainy
season, from November till April. This is about the average time the rains begin and termi-
nate, although sometimes considerable rain will fall as early as October, and continue until
May. During this period there are frequent intervals of fine weather of such extraordinary
beauty and balmy temperature, that the traveller arriving on the coast might well imagine, with
Colonel Fremont, that it resembled the climate of southern Italy. During the dry season the
fogs rise from the sea late in the afternoon, float over the town, and disperse usually by 9 p. m.
There is also a fog generally in the mornings until 10 a. m. I may add here that these fogs are
found on the entire coast of California as far south as Point Concepcion. In the rainy season,
at which time the winds are from the south and east, there are no fogs; the sky, when not
raining, being clear and cloudless. To give some idea of the temperature of this place, the
following memoranda, extracted from the meteorological register of the 2)ost, is here inserted:
Mean annual temperature for 1850, 55° Fahrenheit; coldest day, March 25th (mean for the
day), 39°; warmest day, September 18th (mean for the day), 77°. 50; highest range (Septem-
ber), 94°; lowest range (December), 30°. Mean temperature for 1851, 57°. 54; coldest day
(being the mean for that day), 46°. 50; warmest day (being the mean for that day), 73°. 50;
highest range (August), 75°; lowest range (December), 40°. There is a difference between the
mean temperature of the summer and winter months of only from 6° to 7?; and hence the
annual temperature is very uniform, although the diuinal changes may be very considerable.
Diseases. — I have little information of the diseases of this neigliborhood previous to my arri-
val at Monterey in the spring of 1849. In 1844, I am informed, the small-pox visited this
place, carrying off a large number of the inhabitants, cliicfly Indians, who had not been vac-
cinated. At some of the missions in California, at the same period, nearly the entire population
died of the same disease.
I do not know that any particular disease can be said to be endemic to this locality. The
diseases from which the inhabitants are entirely free, are contagious or infectious fevers (except
AMONG THE TEOOPS IN CALIFORNIA. 441
the exanthemata), calculus, diabetes; those from which they are nearly exempt, are consump-
tion, dyspepsia, aneurism, and malignant tumors; and those which are mild, and of rare occur-
rence, are diarrhoea and dysentery. On my arrival in Monterey in 1849, I found whooping-
cough and measles of a mild form prevailing in the town. On inquiry I learned that these
diseases were unknown here previous to the arrival of the Americans in 1846, who brought
them with them from the States. A few cases of these complaints occurred here the following
year, since which time they have disappeared, and owing to the peculiar climate, and the pre-
valence of the strong and constant winds from the ocean, I do not believe they will reappear
until imported de novo. During their prevalence some cases of rubeola so much resembled
scarlatina that it was extremely difhcult to distinguish one from the other. Some cases ot
scarlatina were reported to me, but I am unable to say whether they were genuine, not having
seen them. So far as I was acquainted (and my practice was very general throughout the
town), but few cases proved fatal.
My predecessor. Assistant Surgeon Murray, has reported several cases of typhoid fever in
Monterey, in the fall of 1847. These cases occurred among recruits just arrived from a pro-
tracted sea voyage, and are, no doubt, attributable to the long confinement on ship-board, and
a want of a proper supply of fresh and wholesome food. Since that period to the present time,
I am not aware of any instance of this fever, except one in an emigrant who arrived at Monte-
rey overland, after enduring incredible hardships and sufferings, and who died shortly after his
arrival.
Although now and then intermittents are met with here, yet in every instance, according to
my experience, they are found among recruits, who have contracted the disease elsewhere, or
miners, who have been living in the valleys of the Sacramento and San Joaquin, where the dis-
ease prevails extensively, and who have come here for the benefit of their health. Off from the
coast, as far interior as the Salinas river, a few cases are met with, but I have never known a
case of intermittent fever originating in Monterey.
The only epidemic common here is influenza, and in the autumn, particularly when the winds
blow from the land, (which they usually do a short time before the advent of the rain), nearly
the entire population become affected. I am inclined to believe, owing to the situation of the la-
goons already described, that, were it not for the setting in of the rain shortly after the commence-
ment of the land breezes, Monterey would be much more unhealthy, it being to the seaward of
these lagoons and, therefore, exposed to any injurious influences emanating thereirom. To the un-
favorable influences of these winds tlie inhabitants are accustomed to ascribe an unusual feeling
of discomfort and want of energy felt at this time.
As many of the people live in low adobe houses without board floors, and in many instances,
without windows, the only means of ingress being a very low door-way, it will follow as a
matter of course, that these dwellings will be low, damp, and illy-lighted and ventilated. If
to these causes be added coarse and badly cooked food, and the practice of the whole family
sleeping in one apartment, it will not be surprising, that, as a result of this mode of life alone,
scrofula and summer complaint of children, and diseases of the lungs will occasionally be found,
without supposing anything in the climate disposing to these complaints. Scrofula is of rather
rare occurrence; the two latter are more common. More children die of cholera infantum and
lobular or infantile pneumonia than from any other disease. These affections, as I before ob-
served, are produced more by the mode of living than any climatic agency. It is the custom
among all classes of native Californians to clothe their children very scantily until they attain
the age of f mr or five years. Before this period no shoes nor stockings are used, the only gar-
ment worn being a single short petticoat of thin calico, and often, indeed, are without any
clothing whatever. During the rainy season, the lower extremities of tlie children are con-
stantly cold and damp, and, as fire-places and chimneys are almost unknown, their garments
are seldom dry, and in this condition they usually sleep on mats laid on a ground floor. To
s. 96 56
442 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
these causes are to be ascribed also the catarrhal affections so common to children, and the pleu-
risy frequently met with in adults.
Asthma is a disease of rare occurrence in Monterey or in California. I have seen but two
cases in three years.
The Asiatic cholera has not as yet visited this place. During the season that cholera pre-
vailed in California, it began in Sacramento valley ; next we find it in Sau Francisco, and pro-
ceeding to San Jose, passed in a soutlierly direction to the eastward of Monterey, to San
Louis Obispo and Santa Barbara. None of the jjremonitory symptoms of this epidemic were
ever present at tliis place. Tlie cause of this exemption is involved in mystery.
But two cases of diarrhoea and dysentery are reported in my returns of the sick for the past
year.
It will be inferred, from the foregoing sketch of the diseases of this post and vicinity, that it
is a post enjoying a higli degree of salubrity, and also from the fact that there are no diseases
of peculiarity or importance, that no prominency can be given to any class of affections, or any
points of striking character can enter into this account.
Before closing tliis paper with a brief allusion to some of the diseases of women of this region,
I will barely allude to one peculiarity I have observed in the diseases not only of Monterey, but
in all California, and tliat is the extreme tendency to functional disturbance of the brain. What
I allude to is the fact that, in diseases (often of a mild character) which, elsewhere and in simi-
lar circumstances, are unattended by the slightest mental aberration, are in California often
accompanied by impaired intellect and sometimes delirium. It is owing to this jieculiarity, I
think, that delirium tremens is found to follow very slight excesses in drinking, and whicli I
before supposed to be entirely inadequate to produce this affection. A contrary opinion, 1 am
aware, exists to some extent here ; but I believe it is founded in error, and that all who have
studied this subject will agree with me that no one can indulge in the use of spirituous liquors
with the same impunity in California as elsewhere. Insanity, it is well known, is very fre-
quent in California, where it is true the predisposing causes exist to an unusual extent in the
excited condition of the country, yet how much is due to the influence of climate remains yet to
be determined. In this small town there are five cases of confirmed insanity of long standing.
I have before, in my reports, mentioned the disposition of the slightest cuts or abrasion of the
cuticle, if not immediately jjrotected from the influence of the air, to take on inflammation,
which frequently degenerates to ulcers of great obstinacy and long duration. This lias been
observed in all parts of the country, and may be owing as much to the character of diet as
to atmospheric influence. My own impression is, that it is due mostly to the latter influence, as
it is found to exist where there is apparently no want of proper aliment.
I have heard of many cases of impaired memory charged to the climate of California, but I
have no certain evidence that this is true; yet, judging from the complaints of eastern friends,
and the many instances of entire forgetfulness and disregard of the strongest of human ties by
those sojourning in this country, one might readily believe that some potent spell, like the
Lethean waters of classic story, was exerted by the gentle winds of the Paciflc coast.
Diseases of women. — The diseases peculiar to women, are far more common in Monterey than
any other class of disorders. Of these, the most common are leucorrhoea, prolapsus uteri, and
deranged menstruation. These affections are more numerous in proportion to the j)opulation
in Monterey than in any community I have ever known. Tlie two first-named are, I believe,
owing to the mode of treating parturient women, practised by the natives of the place. It is
the custom in Monterey, when labor begins, to place the woman on a chair in the middle of tlie
room, and a rope is fastened to the rafters above her liead, which she is directed to pull. Round
her abdomen, a broad towel, or rebosa, is passed, the ends crossed behind, and entrusted to
assistants, who are instructed to tighten it when the abdominal tumor descends during the pain,
and helay there (as it were) until the arrival of the next pain, when it is hauled taut again, so
as to hold on each time to the progress made, and not permit the usual ascent of the tumo
AMONG THE TROOPS IN CALIFORNIA.
443
after the subsidence of the pain. With the same view, a strong man is frequently seated behind
the woman, who, with his hands placed on her abdomen, makes strong pressure downwards, at
each pain, with the idea of assisting, by mechanical force, the contractions of the uterus. All
this time the midwife (generally some old woman) is seated in front with one, and, if possible,
both hands, in the vagina, making all the traction in her power. When the woman and her
assistants are fatigued, she is placed upon her knees, on the floor, but without relaxing any of
the means and appliances which would cause them to lose the advantage already gained. These
violent measures often prove fatal to both mother and child. Usually, on the termination of
labor, the woman is completely exhausted. From the injury done to the soft parts by the long
and rough handling, inflammation and ulceration often ensue, and thus laying the foundation
of uterine and vaginal disease and displacement of the uterus. Immediately after delivery, and
when the poor woman is nearly worn out, and in a more or less excited state, and the nervous
system in an exceedingly susceptible condition, and disposed to receive strong impressions from
slight causes, it is the universal custom for all acquaintances, however slight, to visit, with one
accord, the new mother, so that her room will resemble an evening party, being filled with
numerous guests, who do not hesitate to sit for hours, in loud conversation, and regale themselves
meanwhile in smoking paper cigarettes. When we consider how much lying-in-women often sufier
from not being kept in a tranquil and quiet state after confinement, and how important to her
well-doing is rest and seclusion, we may readily conceive the unfortunate results of an opposite
course, and understand wliy more untoward circumstances occur to such women here than ordi-
narily. Within the last few years, the influence of the intelligent physicians, and a few
American families, have made some improvement in these matters ; but, as this branch of the
profession is still in the hands of the Caliibrnia midwife, much ignorance and sujjerstition still
exist throughout the country to an extent that could scarcely be credited in other jjortions of
the United States. Not deeming a more extended narration of the diseases of this vicinity as
proper in a paper of this character, I have endeavored to be as brief as the nature of the subject
would admit, and have, therefore, been obliged to avoid details which, after all, perhaps, would
not have been read either with interest or profit.
List of Plants found in the vicinity of Monter&y, Ujijier California,
[Note. — Assistant Surgeon W. S. King states tliat "tluB list of plants was prepared from specimens collected by himself
and family, and from the collection of Dr. Andrews, an ardent and indefatigable botanist of Monterey."]
KASlNCrLACEJE :
CKrcirEE.E :
Caktophtll-vcej: :
Ranunculus Californicus.
Dentaria integrifolia.
Arenaria laricifolia.
(xmdescribed).
acris.
Aquilegia Canadensis.
Californica.
Erysimum grandiflorum.
Lepidium Californicum.
Stellaria media.
Silene Drummondii.
P0RTCLACACE.E :
Delphinium Califomicum.
Menziesii.
variegatum.
nudicaule.
Pffionia Californica.
Menziesii.
latipes.
Thysanocarpus pusillus.
elegans.
Polygala (unknown).
Calandrina Menziesii.
speciosa.
Claytonia perfoliata.
tenuifolia.
GEKAN'IACEi: :
Beebekidace^ :
ViOLACEX :
Erodium cicutarium.
Berberis aquifolium.
PAPAVEKACE.E .
Chyseis Californica
Viola longipes.
pedunculata.
ocellata.
OxALiDACti: :
Oxalis corniculata.
Orcgana.
crocea.
caespitosa.
Plalystigma lineare.
Plalystemon Californicum.
CKCClFERi :
CisTACRi; :
Helianthemum scoparium.
FE.4XKE.VHCEX :
Frankeuia grandiflora.
ASACABDIACEi :
Rhus diversiloba.
laurina.
Malt ACES :
Malva fasciculata.
Cheiranthus capitalus.
Streptanthus glandulosus.
flavescens.
Tu.ECEBRACEfi :
Paronychia ramosissima.
Spergula rubra.
rotundifolia.
HjPPOCASTANCEi :
.fisculus Californica.
444
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
LIST OF PLANTS— Continued.
Rhamjiace^ :
Ehamnus laurifolius.
croseus.
Californicus.
Ceanothiis tliyssifloras.
cuneatus.
rigidus.
dcntatus.
Tj:onMiN03X :
Vicia exigna.
Lathyrus strictus.
maritimus.
palustris.
Psoralea orbicularis.
macrostacliya.
Trifolium albopurpureum.
pratensc.
microcephalum.
fimbriatum.
heteiodcm.
involucratum.
fucatum.
amplecteus.
Melilotus occidentalis.
Medicago denticulata.
Hosackia stolonifera.
gracilis,
crassifolia.
deeumbens.
tomentosa.
micranthus.
scoparia.
sericea.
nudiflora.
strigosa.
rubella.
Astragalus leucophyllus.
rhaca trichopoda.
densiflora.
Douglasii.
Lupinus Menziesii.
microuarpus.
hirsutissimus.
gracilis,
manus.
leptophyllus.
truncatus.
bicolor.
polyphyllus.
cytisoides.
versicolor,
rivularis.
Douglasii.
macrocarpus.
Thennopsis macrophylla.
Pickeringia montana.
EosACE,E :
Nuttallia cerasiformis.
Spira?a aria>folia.
Cercocarpus parvifolius.
R0SACE.S :
Aco^na pinnatifida.
Adenostoraa fasiculata.
Horkelia Californica.
cuncata.
Potentilla glandulosa.
Fragaria vesta.
Chilensis.
Eubus velutinus.
strigosHS.
spectabilis.
villosuB.
ursinus.
fra.\inifolia.
Photinia arbutifolia.
Gnagkace-i: :
Zauscbneria Californica.
Epilobium coloratum.
Oenothera Hookeri.
Lindleyi.
rubicunda.
riminea.
Arnottii.
tenella.
purpura,
lepida.
cheiranthifolia.
micrantha.
dentata.
Eulobus Californicus.
Clarkia elegans.
CtJCL'nBIT.\CE.E :
Echinocystis (undescribed).
GB09SnLACE.E :
Eibes speciosum.
Menziesii.
villosum.
Californicum.
glutinosum.
nialvacum.
CACTACE.E :
Opuntia vulgaris.
Mesemuryanthemace-e ;
Mesembryanthemum trigonaca-
rinatifolium.
SAXIPKAGACEiE :
Saxifraga — 3 species.
Henchera hirtiflora.
Lithophragma cymbalaria.
Umbelliferj: :
Hydrocotyle natans.
Sanicula Menziesii.
nudicaulis.
arctopoides.
Cryptota^nia (unknown).
Peucedannia cariiifolium.
Leptota?nia Californica.
Dancus pusillus.
COBNACE.E :
Comus sericea.
CAPR1F0LIACE.E :
Symphoricarpus racemosus,
Loniccra Californica.
involucrata.
Sambucus (unknown).
RUBIACE.E :
Galium Californicum.
trichocarpiim.
triflorum.
CoMrosiTiE :
Corethrogyne filaginifolia.
tomcntella.
Aster Chilensis, and several un-
known species.
Erigcron glaucum.
speciosum.
Douglasii.
Gutierrezia Californica.
Solidago spiciformis.
Californica.
elongata.
Ericameria microphylla.
Aplopappus Menziesii.
Grindelia hirsutula.
robusta.
Heterosheca grandiflora.
Chrysopsis sessiliflora.
Baccharis pilularis.
Douglasii.
viminea.
Micropus Californicus.
Psilocarpbus globiferus.
Stylocline gnapbaloides.
Franseria bipinnatifida.
Wyethia augustifolia.
Helianthus Californicus.
Helianthella lanceolata.
Leptosyne Douglasii.
Choenactis tennifolia.
Bahia achillieoides.
Lasthenia glaberrima.
Burrielia microglossa.
Dicha^ta uliginosa.
Layia gaillardioides.
heterotricha.
Callichroa plataglossa.
Hemizonia tilipts.
Venegosia carpesioidcs.
Artemesia pycnocephala.
pachystachya.
Californica.
Gnaphalium Californicum.
Sprengelii.
Senecio Californicus.
Douglasii.
Calais Douglasii.
Malacothrix commutata.
Taraxacum dens leonis.
(unknown).
Sonchus apper.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN CALIFORNIA.
445
LIST OF PLANTS— Continued.
Labiatje :
Ml.SCELLANEOUS: .
MiSCELLAKBOBS :
Scutellaria.
Sisyrincliium.
Convallaria — 2 species.
Stacliys.
Solanum.
Convolvolus — 3 species.
Galcopsis.
Vaccinium (evergreen).
Dodecatheon.
Gerardia.
Iris — 2 species.
Castanea (evergreen).
Pycnanthemum.
Collinsia — 2 species.
Mimulus.
Myosotis.
Tkees.
Ehinanthacex :
Eucliroma.
Pedicularis.
Castillega — several species.
Plantago.
Achillea millefolium.
Allium — several species. .
Pinus insignis.
Edgariana.
Cupressua macrocarpus.
Anagallis.
Arbutus tomentosa.
Quercus Califomicus,
longiglanda.
Melanthace.e :
Asclepias.
Salix — several species.
Zygadenus.
Calochortus.
Arbutus procera.
Helonias.
Chenopodium.
Taxodium semperrirens.
List of animals, d'c, found at Ilonferey, California, and vicinifij. — California lion, black and
brownbear, tiger cat, wild cat, lynx, prairie wolf, coyote, badger, rabbit, hare, grey squirrel, mole,
wood rat, house rat, pole-cat, weasel, chameleon, elk, white-tail deer, antelope, sea otter, seals.
Reptiles. — Bufo Americanus, rana, hyla and hylodes, turtles, lizards, rattle and other snakes.
Birds. — White and grey goose, ducks^ large and small crow, pigeon, woodcock, snipe, wood-
lark, woodpecker, large and small hawk, eagle (bald), quail, blackbird, sparrow, bluebird,
martin, barn swallow, humming-bird, chapparal cock, kildeer, linnet, crane, robin, fish-hawk,
large and small owls, turkey-buzzard, ibis, and red-winged blackbird.
FORT MILLER.
Fort Miller is located upon the San Joaquin river, and just within the foot-hills of the great
Sierras; these soon disappear upon the vast plains, which stretch north and south to the distance
of several hundred miles, and are in width about fifty. Save a few narrow belts which mark
the course of the several rivers, the plains are entirely destitute of timber, and oppose no obstacles
to the burning rays which through several months unintermittingly pour down from a relent-
less sun. The wind which sweeps from the ocean to restore the equilibrium, chills in its
passage the inhabitants of the coast; yet, when it has traversed these plains, so hot and dry
does it become, it is almost irrespirable. The light winds from the snowy summits of the Sierra
secure cool nights. The country adjacent to the post is only remarkable for its occasional gold-
bearing quartz veins. The soil, both upon the hills and in the valley, is universally of an
argillaceous character, with vast quantities of jjebbles thickly imbedded tlierein. A few
scattered oaks, and some straggling pines, are the principal trees in the immediate vicinity.
The following remarks, respecting the diseases at this post, are taken from a recent report
by Assistant Surgeon Murray: "Diarrhoea, which, next to remittent fever of a mild form, is
most frequently met with, seems to be produced by the great heat and sudden changes of tem-
perature, together with i'aulty diet. Vegetables are frequently very scarce ; for the torrid heat
which sets in early in June, nearly puts an end to vegetation, save in the low and moist river
bottoms, of which there are none within twenty-five miles of the post. Several cases of scorbutic
diarrhoea have been treated with the liajipiest results with the supertartrate of potassa in small
doses long continued. It is remarkable that diseases of the liver and bowels are not more fre-
quent during the hot months here, where the thermometer, for three or four mouths, ranges from
t 90 to 11.5° at mid-day. The small quantity of oxygen inspired with this rarified atmosphere,
is insufficient to decarbonize the blood ; and thus additional labor is thrown upon the liver ; and,
at this season, it is a fact, universally noticed, that the stools are perfectly black in the most
healthy individuals.'"
446
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
DISEASES.
The only epidemic with which the troops in southern California have heen visited is one of in-
fluenza, which occurred in February, 1853, and which was confined to the garrison of Fort Yuma.
The disease was ushered in with severe .symptoms and marked prostration ; hut, on the second or
third day it assumed a mild form. Assistant Surgeon Milhau, who notes this epidemic, remarks
that, " in some cases dysentery was a prominent symptom, ai)pearing on the first, and subsiding
on the second or third day, giving place to the ordinary catarrhal symptoms, so that it would
appear the two diseases were produced by the same cause ; in one, the mucous membrane of the
intestinal canal being affected; in the other, that of the air-passages." The usual duration of
the disease was four or five days.
The diseases of the troops in this region are presented in the following table, compiled from
the consolidated abstract :
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY,
Quarters.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
Ratio per 1,000 of mean strenoth.
Treated.
Died.
First quarter. ,.._--.___-_
1,744
1,843
1,591
1,C50
733
1,029
847
591
8
7
10
5
420
658
532
358
4 5
Second quarter. - ...__.
4
Third quarter.-- --..--..-
6.2
Fourth quarter - --------
3
1,707
3,200
30
1,874
17 5
The annual proportion of cases of disease to the number of officers and men was 1.87 to 1, and
the corresponding ratio of deaths, 1 to 56.9, or 1.7 per cent. The proportion of deaths to cases
treated was 1 to 106.66, or 0.93 per cent.
FEVERS.
Quarters nKST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
TEAR.
o
00
«
a)
■^ .
o
•fi
a
o
S^
Strength 1,744
1,843
1,591
1,650
1,707
ft 5
-A
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases. Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Fehris continua communis
Fehris intermittens quotidiana.
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana-..
5
44
25
3
13
1
2
50
33
6
1
5
57
17
21
1
2
26
10
2
4
14
177
85
5
44
1
1
1
1 in 14
in 177
in 85
in 5
Oin 44
1 in 1
in
8.2
103
49
3
U 3
Febris typhus. _._
0.6
Febris typhus icterodes
Total
90
1
92
100
1
44
326
2
1 in 163
190
AMONG THE TROOPS IN CALIFORNIA.
447
DISEASES OP THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters ...__......-..--
FIRST.
8EC0.ND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
YEAR.
Proportion of deaths to
cases.
1
£^
1,
744
1,
343
1,591
1,
350
1,707
ti M
S 5
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deatlis.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
.2 'X
1'
67
26
4
1
22
20
3
162
40
43
47
2
1
120
13
1
1
1
39
39
1
99
7
3
17
24
2
448
86
8
2
1
121
130
«
1
1 in 56
in 86
in 8
in
in
Oin 1
in 121
1 in 130
262
50.3
Dysenteria chronica
Enteritis »,»---_-----
4.6
Hepatitis acuta. ._..._.---
1.1
Hepatitis chronica
Obstipatio ......... .-
0.6
70.8
AH other diseases of this
system ..........-.----
76
Total
140
3
292
3
214
1
150
2
796
9
lin 88
466
DISEASES OF THE KESPIRATORT SYSTEM.
Quarters . ...........
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH.
YEAR.
Proportion of deaths to
g
•: a
Strength
1,
744
1,
343
1,591
1,
G50
1,
■07
o s
■So
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Bronchitis acuta et chronica..
Catarrhus
Phthisis pulmonalis. .......
3
101
7
5
2
4
1
1
2
85
10
7
3
1
3
47
1
6
1
1
3
41
1
3
4
2
2
11
274
9
23
13
10
5
2
in
in
1 in
in
1 in
in
11
274
2
23
6
10
6.4
160
5.2
13.4
7.6
All other diseases of this sys-
tem
5.8
Total
122
2
107
1
54
2
54
2
340
7
1 in
49
199
Rheumatismus
53
2
41
24
44
162
2
lin
81
94
CALIFORNIA— NORTHERN DIVISION.
The troops in the northern division of California have more or less permanently occupied the
following stations : Presidio of San Francisco, Benecia Barracks, Sonoma, Camp Far West,
Forts Reading, Jones, and Humboldt. . ••
PRESIDIO OF SAN FRANCISCO AND SONOMA.
The post at the Presidio of San Francisco is located on an elevated point three miles west of
the city toward the coast, and much more directly exposed to the sea. The entrance to San
Francisco harbor bounds the point on the north.
448 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Sonoma. — Tliis post is on a small stream entering into San Pablo bay, near forty miles north
of San Francisco. The locality is partially jirotectod from the sea exi)OHure by s])urs of the Coast
range of mountains, and its character in this respect is intermediate between the posts of the
coast and those of the interior of California.
MEDICAL TOl'OGKAPHy AND DISEjVSES OF BENECIA BAKKACKS.
B}' Assistant Surgeon John S. Cirillin : 1852.
The jjost of Benecia is situated in latitude 38° 8' north, and 122° 4' west, on the straits of
Carquenez, connecting the bays of San Pablo and Suisun, about thirty miles east, in a direct
line from the Pacific ocean, and about one mile east of the town of Benecia ; altitude of barometer
above the Pacific ocean sixty-four feet.
The bays in the vicinity of the post are surrounded by extensive marshes, which are flooded
at high tide. In the spring and summer seasons, when the San Joaquin and Sacramento rivers
are full, the water in the straits is sufficiently fresh to be used for drinking.
To the nortli and northwest, the post is surroimded by high hills and valleys, of great fer-
tility ; there are no trees in the vicinity of the post ; on the opposite side of the straits there are
a few groves of small oak — a species of live-oak.
The soil is a yellow clay, over strata of slate and limestone. Coal, gold, and mercury have
been found within a few miles of this place. The country for many miles presents the same
aspect, except that in the vicinity of Sonoma and Nofa the hills are higher; there are many
thermal springs in the valleys. The hills are covered with a most luxuriant growth of wild
oat, and the valleys with clover; the oat ripens about the 10th or 15th of June.
The wild animals found in the vicinity are the grizzly bear, elk, deer, antelope, and hare;
the plains and valleys, during the rainy season, are covered with flocks of wild geese, brent,
duck, and other water-fowl; they commence coming about the middle of October, and migrate
north in March or April.
Tlie climate is mild, divided into two seasons — the wet and dry. The winter, or wet season,
usually commences in November, and continues through March. A few weeks after the first
rains, the grass springs up, and in a short time the country presents the appearance of spring.
The fruit trees bloom in February and March; the vine and olive grow in great perfection.
Snow seldom falls on the plains ; occasionally the higher hills are covered for a few hours; ice
sometimes, but rarely forms ; the hills and valleys continue green until the last of May, when
the oat and other grasses begin to ripen and turn yellow; and, by the middle of July, the
ground is baked and cracked, and the whole country presents the appearance of the greatest
aridity. At this place, and other points near the coast, the sea-breeze blows regularly, com-
mencing about 9 or 10 a. m., and continuing till sundown; the nights are cool and pleasant;
places situated imnieiliately on the bay and coast are subject to high winds and fogs ; but near
the hills and mountain ranges the climate varies greatly at points only a few miles ajiart —
those places which are sheltered from the wind being much warmer.
This post was established April 30, 1849 ; and in the autumn of that year, the troops occupied
temporary quarters; last spring, the barracks were finished, and occupied by the troops; these
buildings are situated on a hill, to the north of the old encampment; there are sufficient quar-
ters for four full companies.
The most prevalent diseases at this post are fevers and affections of the respiratory and digestive
cro-ans. The majority of cases of fever may be traced to field-service, in the valleys of the San
Joaquin- and Sacramento. Every summer, since the establishment of the post, some of the
troops of the garrison have been engaged in field-service in the upper country ; the men have
invariably returned (particularly from the Sacramento valley) prostrated by fevers, dysentery,
and scurvy ; the fevers are not severe, the remittent form being mild and easily managed ; the
intermittent is apt to return frequently, and continue for a long time.
The diseases of the respiratory organs are generally mild catarrhs, usually cured in a few
AMONG THE TROOPS IN CALIFORNIA. 449
days ; but one man lias died at tliis post with phthisis ; and I can find but two cases reported
since the establishment of the post.
The diseases of the digestive organs are diarrhoea and dysentery, both frequently proving
extremely obstinate and difficult of cure.
Persons arriving here are subject to attacks of catarrh and diarrhoea. This, I think, may be
ascribed to the cold winds which prevail here, and to the water, which is highly impregnated
with salts of magnesia and lime. Since the new barracks have been finished, cistern water is
used by the troops.
The worst and most obstinate, cases of disease of the digestive organs are met with among
old soldiers — men who have served in Mexico and in this country for several years. This is the
chronic diarrhoea, or dysentery ; it is generally combined with scorbutus. Upon examination,
the gums will be found to be swollen — bleeding easily ; the breath foetid ; the tongue smooth
and shining, and frequently aphthous ulcerations on the edges. I have not seen many cases
attended with eruptions. The jmssages are frequent and changeable; being, at times, almost
natural ; changing, without any apparent cause, to watery yellow passages, or to mucus and
blood. The appetite is capricious. The general appearance of the patient is ana?mic. Re-
covery is slow — dependent more on diet than medicine. I have known several persons to re-
cover in a very short time by a voyage to the Sandwich Islands.
Since the establishment of this post, fourteen deaths have occurred : eleven were from
chronic diarrhoea and scorbutus, one cystitis, one phthisis, and one suicide. Four have been
discharged for disability: one mania, one angina pectoris, one circocele, and one debility. I
think that the diseases may be attributed to diet and habits of dissipation. From the high
price and scarcity of vegetables, the men have been confined almost entirely to the ration and
fresh beef; and this has been particularlj^ the case when in the field. In 1849 and 1850,
diarrhoea and scurvy were prevalent among the citizens employed by the quartermaster, and
persons in the surrounding country. At this time, persons living at the post, and the inhabi-
tants of the surrounding country who have an abundance of vegetables, are remarkably healthy.
Opthalmia is a frequent disease at this post, caused, I think, from dust and high winds.
CAMP FAR WEST.
Camp Far West is situated at the base of the foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada, at the head of
the valley of Bears' creek, a tributary of Feather river, and on the eastern side of the Sacra-
mento valley. The camp is about 35 miles N.N.E. of Sutter's Fort, in latitude 39° 7', longi-
tude 121° 18'. The soil of Bears' Creek valley, which is from one to two miles wide, and
fifteen miles long, is alluvial ; and, except some few sloughs and lagoons of trifling extent, it
is in most seasons dry. The table-land, which composes the main Sacramento valley, and ex-
tends from the Sierra Nevada to the coast range intersected by the alluvial valleys of the Sacra-
mento, Feather, Yubo, and American rivers, with other minor streams, is generally composed
of a mixture of clay and gravel, with a substratum of iudurated claystone, impervious to water,
for which reason the plains are impassable in the rainy season. In common with the whole
Sacramento valley, this post is very sickly from June till October. Although there are no
marshe.s within twenty-five miles of the i^ost^ it is considered one of the most unhealthy points
in the valley. The climate is mild and pleasant from October to May ; the rest of the year it
is hot and sultry. (From quarttrly report of Assistant Surgeon Robert Murray : 1849.)
This post was abandoned on account of its unhealthiness ; and the troops moved to the upper
or northern part of the valley of the Sacramento, where they established a new poet, which
was named Fort Reading.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT READING.
By Assistant Huigeou John F. Hammond ; 1S55.
This military post was established in May, 1852, and was named Fort Reading, after an old
settler from one of the eastern States, who still lives in the neighborhood,
s. 96 57
450 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
It is in liititude 40° 28' 22" N.; longitude 122° 7' W. from Greenwich. In altitude aLout
800 feet above the level of the sea. The country around is, in a general view, an irrrcgular
prairie, bounded on the east by a range of mountains — Lassen's mountains — running north and
south, sixty miles distant, and one-fourtli of the way to the range of the Sierra Nevada; on the
west by the Coast range, tweuty-five miles distant; on the north by Shasta butte, ninety miles
•tlistant, which appears to spread out east and west and connect with Lassen's and the Coast
range; and on the south it is continuous with a plain that follows the course of the Sacramento
river. Tlie average heiglit of these mountains is five or si.x thousand feet above the sea. Tlic
highest point of Lassen's range — Lassen's butte — which is nearly due east from the fort, must
be near 10,000 feet above the sea. Snow is seen on it at all seasons. Shasta butte, which is
immediately under the 122d parallel, is, according to the most reliable map of California, 10,(100
feet above the sea. It is covered perpetually with snow for some distance below its summit.
Three-fourths of the horizon is in winter bounded by a line of snow.
This large basin is the northern part of the valley of the Sacramento river. Its inclination is
to the south. It is furrowed everywhere by ravines and valleys, in which, from October to May,
are flowing mountain torrents. The last vary in size from the smallest to a quarter of a mile
broail, and have an average depth of many feet. The remainder of the year the ravines con-
tain strings of pools of stagnant water, alternating with sandy or rocky beds, exposed to the
rays of the sun. The prairie is studded here and there with mots of white oak; and white oak,
the nut pine, and willows, with long grass and dense undergrowth, skirt the water-courses.
Elsewhere the country is bare of everything that would intercept the winds. The population,
which is composed of emigrants and a few small bands of roving Indians, is, except in the mines,
very sparse. The cultivation of the soil is of such little extent that it cannot aifect in any degree
its healthfulness.
The post is a mile east of the Sacramento river, in the valley of a mountain stream called
Cow creek. It is on the brink of the bank, twenty feet liigh, which limits the bed of the creek
on its western side, in a fine grove of large white oaks entirely free from undergrowth. Tlie
quarters for the officers and men are of adobes, one story high, of ami)le dimensions, well venti-
lated, except beneath the floors, which are of planks laid directly on the ground ; they are well
lighted, and the distance between the buildings spacious, so as to allow free access and circula-
tion of fresh air. The whole is thoroughly policed. The creek, generally confined between its
banks, sometimes overflows just above the fort, and forms a stream fifteen yards or more in
width, that runs between the buildings occupied as quarters, and leaves a bed damp and foetid.
It was Ibund necessary to build a permanent bridge over the bed of this cut-off, for such an
emergency. During the winter and sjiring the creek has, for a mile or two above its mouth,
an average depth of fifteen feet, and forty yards breadth. Its bed, however, will average one
hundred yards wide. Just now, the stream is at the fort 350 yards wide. In the summer and
fall the average depth is not more than four feet; its breadth is contracted two-thirds, and much
of its bed, which consists of boulders, gravel and sand, or argillo-arenaceous layers containing a
large amount of fragments and particles of i^umice, and vegetable remains, is exposed to the
sun. "When the stream is swollen by the rains it has a yellowish grey turbidncss, but the de-
posit is slight, from the short duration of the floods and its raj)id current; as it subsides it has
the opalescent liue of streams of limestone water, and when at its summer height it is limpid,
and delicious to drink. Its course is S.S.W. It runs a little nearest the eastern border of its
valley, and empties into the Sacramento river a mile below the fort.
The valley of the creek is a mile wide. Its bottom is a plain of argillaceous soil mixed with
gravel and vegetable remains from grasses and weeds. It produces a very full crop of grasses
and weeds, and a great variety of flowers. It is exceedingly retentive of moisture, and is,
during the rainy season, so boggy that it is dangerous lor cattle to get ofl'the roads. The sub-
soil is a light-yellow sand, more or less compact. The valley has the appearance of a valley
from disruption, and presents on both sides abrupt escarpments fifty feet jiigh. The continuity
of the latter is much interrupted by ravines Ibruied by tiie rains, and tiie angles have been
AMONG THE TROOPS IN CALIFORNIA. 451
rounded, and the subsoil concealed by various meteorological causes. From the tops of the es-
carpments on both sides of the valley, extend plains to the foot of other precipices, or are inter-
rupted by ravines and valleys. The surface of these plains are red clay mixed with gravel and
the remains of croi)s of grass, and they are covered with rolled flints. In some places, over an
extensive tract, they are formed into numerous depressions, which contain puddles or ponds of
v?ater during the rainy season. For some time after that season, even a man cannot walk on
them without miring. In summer they are dry and somewhat spongy, and water is found a
short distance beneath the surface. The substrata are clay, mixed with rolled flints, gravel,
yellow sand, all of various degrees of compactness, but friable, extending to an indefinite depth.
Cryptogamic plants are observed during most of the year. After a rain many mushrooms
spring up ; mould fixes on the ground in numerous places, and seizes upon all fresh deposits of
animal or vegetable matter.*
Of the sources to which have been referred the causes of intermittent fever, several are well
marked here. For example: an argillaceous soil converted into a swamp during one half the
year, and presenting during the otlier half a dry spongy surface, with water at a little depth
beneath it; a jjrolonged rainy season followed by one of dryness and intense solar heat; numer-
ous beds of streams exposing dry surface or pools of stagnant water to the sun, especially one
immediately beside us; the free jiassage of the winds in various directions; the great diurnal
range of the temperature; the general growth of cryptogamic plants; and the grove immedi-
ately around us, the exhalations from which may chill the atmosj^here at night, or shed down
poisonous emanations intercepted by the leaves.
The intermittent fever occurs here at all seasons. A violent attack of tertian intermittent
occurred in an oflicer late in December last, just after fifteen successive morning.s of white frost.
A light shower followed the last frost, which was, in turn, followed by four frosty mornings,
and on the second day of the last he was attacked. He arrived here for the first time seventeen
days before his illness, and there is no reason to believe that he had contracted the disease else-
where. The disease is perfectly controllable by the sulphate of quinine.
In point of climate and salubrity, the descrijition of this part of the countrj^ is applicable to
much of the country lying between the range of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Coast
range.
The tribes to which the Indians who rove about here belong are not distinguishable by our
present mode of communicating with them. They consist of a few small bands, speaking difler-
ent languages, and each known specifically by the name of its chief. They are all classed under
the term "Digger," and are further arranged according to the names of the streams which are
severally their usual haunts. They will average about the medium size of white men, and are
■well proiwrtioned. The head is* not below the medium size, and is not deficient in local develop-
ments. The superciliary ridge jirojecting unusually gives the forehead the appearance of re-
treating more than it would otherwise have. The eyes are not oblique, and the powers of vision
are very extraordinary. The cheek-bones are high. The nose regularly arched, not long; the
alee nasi spread out less than in the African; the orifices present downward. The teeth are
regular, white, not large. The lijjs are thicker than in the European. The inferior maxillary
bone is not at all disiiroportioned to the rest of the face. The chest is well developed. The
abdomen is protuberant. The hands and feet are remarkably small. Their general expression,
when not hungry, is that of liappiness and benevolence. At other times, they are pensive,
grave, subdued, and seemingly wretched. They are armed with the bow, made elastic by a
layer of some animal fibrous tissue on its back, and the wooden arrow pointed with flint. Tliey
live on small game, fish, insects, acorns, roots, and grass. They dwell in small rouiul-top luits
made of dirt supported by skins and branches of trees. Among themselves and between the
different bands exists a remarkable charity; when starving with hunger, they will divide the
last morsel of food with all to whom they can have access. Tlie men go naked, the women
• The original report contains an extended series of meteorological tables, which are htsre necessarily excluded. — C.
452
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
wear an apron of twisted grass. When not aggressed upon they are harmless. Poor creatures I
They are fast disappearing before the strides of the white man ; even his cattle rob them of their
sustenance.*
FORT JONES,
In Scott's valley, between the Salmon and Siskiou range of mountains, and distant one hun-
dred miles northwest from the head of the Sacramento valley, from which it is approached by a
trail over the mountains passable for mules only. Scott's river, a small stream, runs through
the valley its entire length from south to north, and empties into the Kalamath. The valley
itself is about thirty miles long by ten broad. The fort is in latitude 41° 3G', longitude 122°
52', and has an elevation of 2,570 feet above the sea.
geon Charles H. Crane: 1852.)
{From quarterly report of Assistant Sur-
FORT HUMBOLDT,
At the village of Bucksport, Humboldt bay, coast of California. The fort is situated upon a
handsome plateau, some fifty feet high, and about a quarter of a mile back from the shore of
the bay. Its exposure is entirely open to the westward, commanding a fine view of the Pacific,
about two miles distant. There is an abundance of good water and fine lumber. A salt marsh
of considerable extent lies toward the north, but does not affect the healthiness of the place.
The climate, though a little cooler, is, in other respects, very much like that of San Francisco;
strong cool breezes from the northwest in summer, with occasional fogs in the morning. (From
quarterly report of Assistant Surgeon C. P. Deyerle.)
DISEASES.
Having considered the general topographical features of the several posts, we proceed to pre-
sent the statistics of disease in the order heretofore followed :
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Mean strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
RATIO PER 1,000 OP MEAN STRENGTH.
Treated.
Died.
1,518
1,474
1,699
1,706
986
1,220
1,896
1,478
11
10
97
32
650
828
1,116
866
7.2
Second nuarter. •._-_.....
6.7
Third quarter. . --
57
Fourth quarter--- ----- -
18.7
1,599
5,580
150
3,489
93.7
5,420
70
3,389
43.7
" Assistant Surgeon jphn Campbell 'reports that in September, 1853, a company of infantry left this post for duty in
the field, but the men were bo debilitated by their residence in that locality, and by frecjuent attacks of intermittent
fever, that tliey were unable to proceed to the seat of Indian difficulties, and had to halt thirty miles from the fort. A
comparison of the statistics of diseases at Fort Reading with the abstract for all the posts in northern California, show tliat
one-half of the entire nimiber of cases of intermittent fever reported, occurred at this one place. This foit was abiindoned
on account of its unbealtliiness. in March, 1856 — C.
AMONG TUE TROOPS IN CALIFORNIA.
403
The annual proportion of cases of disease to the mean strength of the command in this region
was 3.48 to 1, and the ratio of deaths 1 to 10.66 or 9.3 per cent. The proportion of deaths to
cases of disease was 1 to 3Y.20 or 2.68 per cent. Exclusive of cholera the ratio of disease to
number of troops was 3.38 to 1 ; of deaths, 1 in 22.84 or 4.3 per cent. ; and the proportion of
deaths to cases treated, 1 to 77.42 or 1.29 per cent.
FEVERS.
FIRST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FODRTB.
TEAR.
2
CD
1
"o
e
o
¥i
Strengt li
1,
518
1,474
1,
599
1,706
1,
J99
si
o E
s
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Febris contiuua communis
Febris intermittens quotidiana
Febris interqiittens tertiana .
Febris intermittens quartana.
Febris remittens . ....
2
181
89
7
45
2
1
3
229
115
1
32
1
18
5G6'
150
1
71
23
1
10
2
387
142
2
91
8
1
5
25
1363
496
. 11
239
33
1
2
16
Oin
lin
Oin
in
lin
lin
in
25
1363
496
11
119
2
15.6
852
310
7
149
20.6
Febris typhus icterodes
1
Total -
326
1
380
1
829
11
632
6
2167
19
1 li"
1
114
1355
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters
Strength .
Diseases.
Cholera Asiatica
Diarrhcea
Dy senteria acuta
Dysenteria clironica
Enteritis
Hepatitis acuta
Hepatitis clironica
Obstipatio
All other diseases of this sys-
tem
Total
Exclusive of cholera.
1,518
Cases. Deaths.
5
3
2
29
11
138
1,474
Cases. ! Deaths.
118
36
9
1
31
36
231 2
1,699
1,706
Cases. Deaths. | Cases. Deaths
160
351
53
1
72
51
688
80
1
1
83
131
46
1
3
1
21
32
235
1,699
Cases. Deaths.
160
688
140
14
6
1
153
130
12 1292
80
10
2
7
I 1 in 2
1 in 68
1 in 70
1 in 2
in
in 6
in 1
in 153
1 in 65
101 -1 in 13 «'
1132 I 21 I 1 in 54
I !
V a
a. o
^ a
425
86
8.7
3.7
0.6
95
81
808
708
Cholera. — Although this disease did not occur among the troops actually stationed in north-
ern California, yet, as it had prevailed in that region within the period embraced in tliis report,
it was determined to give the statistics of an epidemic which proved very destructive to the 4th
454 REPOKT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
regiment of infantry while en route to San Francisco from New York in the summer of 1853.
The particulars are given in the following report by Surgeon Charles S. Tripler:
San Francisco, California, September 14, 1852.
Sir: The occurrence of malignant cholera in the 4th regiment of infantry, which I accom-
panied from New York to California, seemed to me to require that I should make a special re-
port to you upon the subject. I have, therefore, made a report of the sick of tliat regiment up to
the 31st August, and beg leave to accompany it with the following remarks:
The regiment was concentrated at Fort Columbus, New York, in obedience to orders from the
War Department; the last company having arrived on the 28d June. On that day 243 re-
cruits were received and examined. On the evening of the 2d July, a telegraphic order was
received for the troops to embark on the otb. On the evening of the 3d July about 150 more re-
cruits were' received and examined. On the 5th July eight companies of the regiment, with the
band and headquarters, were embarked on the United States mail steamer Ohio, bound for As-
pinwall, New Granada. We had a good deal of diarrha>a among our men, during their stay
upon Governor's Island; but it was quite nlanageable, and, when we embarked, I did not con-
sider it necessary to leave but one man in the hospital ; he was recovering from a broken leg,
and would not have been able to march across the isthmus. The Ohio was a large ship, as to
tonnage, and, in that respect, capable of carrying our whole command; but her room is so
badly distributed, that we should have been crowded had there been no other passengers. Our
command, including women and children, was about 800. We had, however, all told, passen-
gers, crew, &c., 1,100 on board. This was altogether too many people for her accommodations
at that season of the year, and in a voyage to the tropics. We, however, reached Aspinwall on
the 16th July, without losing a man. We had a number of cases of both diarrhoea and consti-
pation, and a few cases of fever on the voyage. Our sick report, nevertheless, was very small
upon landing. One man (the band master,) sick with chronic diarrhcea, had sunk so much on
the voyage I was obliged to leave him on the ship, where he died two days afterwards.
On the voyage, I had endeavored to impress upon the commanding officer the necessity of
preventing the men from eating the fruits of the country, and from indulging in any of the
liquors they would meet with on the march. A very judicious order, embracing these views,
was issued previous to our debarkation. I am sorry to say, however, it was not observed on
the march. Had it been strictly obeyed, I tliink we should have been spared much suffering.
It being the height of the rainy season when we reached the isthmus, we were much em-
barrassed by the state of the roads; by rains every day; by the extreme heat, and by the epi-
demic influences prevailing. Cholera existed at Aspinwall when we landed. It had been very
fatal, a short time previously, among the laborers on the railroad, in consequence of which they
had very generally abandoned the work. Forty laborers out of one hundred, I was told, had
died at one station. It was existing at both Cruces and Gorgona on the route — points we were
obliged to pass — and at both which we were unfortunately detained. We found it, also, at
Panama upon our arrival there. Notwithstanding all this, and the cautions in the order of
march, the men had no sooner been permitted to land to procure water, than numbers of them
sought the first tavern they could find, to indulge their fatal craving for liquor. Many were
brought back on board that night intoxicated and drenched with rain. Fruits were also eaten
with avidity, whenever they could be procured.
As we did not reach Aspinwall until after the departure of the daily train of cars, we were
obliged to remain there until next morning. Our baggage, however, was princiimlly landed,
and stowed in the cars that afternoon, and this operation was completed early the next morn-
ing. When the hour arrived for starting, it was found that the locomotives were too liglit to
carry more than half our men in one train. They were accordingly despatched in two trains at
intervals of an hour, and then the baggage had to be left to be brought tip by a return engine.
Arrived at Barbacoas, the present terminus of the railway. Colonel Bonneville informed me
AMONG THE TROOPS IN CALIFORNIA. 455
that it was determined to march the main body of the men from Gorgona to Panama; that the
sick, the women, the baggage, and one company woukl proceed to Cruces, where the mule
transportation would be provided, and whence they would also proceed to Panama. I was
ordered to accompany this last detachment. Colonel Bonneville then proceeded at once, in
boats, to Gorgona. Colonel Wright was to follow when the baggage came up. The baggage
did not arrive till after dark, too late to transfer it to the boats. In the morning it was dis-
covered that the hospital stores were not contained in those cars. I had a special messenger sent
back to bring them up immediately. Colonel Wright went on with his battalion, leaving me
a subaltern and a small guard, with the sick. My messenger did not return till late in the
afternoon, and then brought up but four packages out of thirty, declaring there were no more
to be found. This made it necessary for me to return to Aspinwall, which I did that night
upon a hand car. I found my stores in the first baggage car I met with in the depot, and the
next morning carried them to Barbacoas in a special train furnished me by Colonel Totten, the
engineer of the road. I proceeded at once up the river to Cruces, a distance of twelve miles,
against a rapid and dangerous current, in a small boat, propelled by setting-poles only; and by
dint of great exertion and determination, succeeded in reaching that point at about 9^ at night.
My hospital boat did not get up till next morning. At Cruces, very much to my surprise, I
found the regimental quartermaster, about seventy men, and all the women and children.
This was Monday night. He had been there since Sunday morning, and no transportation for
the baggage had yet been furnished by the contractors. The detachment was encamped on the
river, at the landing-place, and all the baggage piled up in the vicinitj\ At this time all were
well, and my sick had entirely recovered. Transportation was promised in the morning, and
I determined to push on as rapidly as possible, to overtake the main body, at that time prob-
ably at Panama. In the morning we were again disappointed in transportation. This was
Tuesday, 20th July. While endeavoring to get from the contractor mules for myself and
necessary stores, I tvas called to see a soldier, said to be ill of cramps. I found a case of
malignant cholera, of the most aggravated character. The man died in six hours. Upon
instituting a rigid inquiry I found that the disease was, and had been, for some time prevail-
ing in the town; that numbers had died, and were still dying there; and that a physician had
been sent there from Panama for the special purpose of treating such cases. It was of course
impossible for me to leave the detachment under such circumstances. I therefore decided to
remain until the men were all started, and this more especially, as I was informed from day to
day by passengers from Panama, that the main body had gone on board the transport in Panama
bay, and that there was no disease among them. I thought it but prudent, however, to urge
the quartermaster to as sj^eedy a movement from the place as possible; and by my advice he
determined, if the requisite transportation was not furnished by tlie next morning, to procure
it himself of any body, at any price, and require the contracting parties to pay for it. It must
be observed that a sub-contradtor had agreed to furnish mules for eleven cents a pound, and all
this time they were in demand, for private transportation, at sixteen to twenty cents. We
had the vexation of seeing hundreds of citizens forwarded, with scarcely an hour's detention,
while our men were kept at the most unhealthy point of the isthmus for five days, with no
adequate eifort on the part of the contractors to forward us to Panama. The next morning we
were no better oft'. Captain Grant then went into the market, and succeeded in completing a
contract before night with a responsible person, for the requisite number of mules, to be ready
early the next day. In the meanwhile several cases of cholera occurred, and we had four more
deaths. One man convalesced from the disease, but too ill to move, I was obliged to leave in
charge of the alcalde and the town physician. I recommended, under the circumstances, that
the whole detachment should be furnished with mules, lest the fatigue of marching over so
desperate a road should excite the disease in men jjredisposed to it, and they should perish,
without the possibility of my aiding them, on the way. Tliis was done, but notwithstanding
every precaution on our part, three fatal cases did occur on the road.
456 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
In compliance with Capt. Grant's contract, a large number of mules, both saddle and cargo,
were brought up in the morning, and despatched as fast as possible with riders and burdens,
respectively, by 1 p. m., about one-half our men and nearly one-half our baggage were on the
road. The usual rain then coming on, operations were necessarily suspended for the day. I
must here remark, that the preservation of anything like order or organization, in the forward-
ing of troops or baggage on mules across the Isthmus, is altogether out of the question. Tlie
moment a rider or a cargo is placed upon a mule's back, that moment he must set out, or the
muleteer strips his mule and carries him off. Our. movement was, therefore, of necessity a
straggling one, each man making his way to Panama as he best could, when once mounted.
Tlie next morning, before 10 o'clock, the last of our men was on the way, and most of the re-
maining baggage, and 1 then set out myself; I readied Panama before dark, but too late to go
to the ship that night. I learned that she was lying off Taboga, 12 miles down the bay; that
cholera had broken out on board, and carried off a number of men. A small steamer communi-
cated with her once a day only, leaving Panama at 5 p. m. 1 was, therefore, detained at Panama
until that hour of the following day. Here I learned that six of the cabin passengers by the
Ohio (our ship) had died in Panama of cholera contracted on the Isthmus.
I proceeded to the ship by the first opportunity, and there was informed tliat the main body
had passed three nights on the road between Gorgona and Panama, without shelter; that they
were drenched by the rains every day; that the order relative to fruits and drink had been en-
tirely disregarded, and, in consequence, several men had been attacked by cholera, and died on
the way. After their arrival upon the ship, the surgeons of that and of two other ships of the
same line had been constant in tlieir attendance upon the sick, and abundance of hospital stores
and medicines had been furnished by the company. That day (Saturday) the sick had been
removed to a hulk anchored near, and a detail of men to nurse them, under the charge of an
officer, had been sent on board by the commanding officer. I went on board the hulk and
passed the night there. Several new cases were sent on board from the ship during the night.
The next day. Dr. Martin, of the Columbia, kindly volunteered to take my place, and I got
some sleep. I passed the next night again on board the hulk, besides frequent visits during
the day. The next day I was obliged to apply to the commanding officer for assistance. It
was impossible for any one to endure such an amount of pliysical and mental exertion any
longer. We had, fortunately, among our passengers, Dr. Deal, of California, a physician of
experience and intelligence, with whom a contract was made to perform the duties of an assist-
ant surgeon on board the Golden Gate, from that time till she reached San Francisco, for the
moderate sum of $250. Had we known what was before us, we could not have secured his
services for ten times the amount.
Tuesday, 27th July, the disease was evidently subsiding. No new cases had occurred during
the night, and the sick were, for the most part, improving. I entertained strong hopes
that, as soon as our baggage was all received, we should be* in condition to j)rosecute our
voyage. In this liope, however, we were doomed to be disappointed. In the afternoon of tiiat
day we had a heavy rain, against which many of our men were but ill protected. Upon the
arrival of the small steamer in the evening, about a dozen knapsacks were received, that had
been lying and moulding somewhere on the Isthmus for a long time; the men to whom they
belonged seized upon tliem immediately with great eagerness, and opened them to get a change
of clothing. I was afterwards informed that some of these men fell sick while in the act. Be
this as it may, in about 20 hours afterward they were all taken ill of cholera in its worst form,
and within an hour of each otlier, and most of them died. The disease having thus reappeared,
it was determined to land the troops. Tiiere being shelter for the sick upon, the island of Fla-
mingo, about six miles from Panama, the debarkation was effected upon the 29th; the sick were
placed in huts, and the well in a few tents and under sails stretched over poles. On the Lst
August^ Brevet Major Gore was attacked, and died on board the Golden Gate. His was the
last case of cholera that occurred, and he the only officer we lost. I recommended to Colonel
AMONG THE TROOPS IN CALIFORNIA. 457
Bonneville to destroy any other knapsacks that might be received from the isthmus, and to have
the ship fiimigated with chlorine; which was done. Several other officers were threatened, but,
by timely means, escaped a decided attack. Upon the island, a number of those previously ill
died, but no new cases appeared. The fever of the country, Iiowever, began to show itself,
which made all anxious to leave Panama as soon as possible. On tlie 3d August, the Golden
Gate determined to go to sea the next day, but refused to take on board more than 4o0 of our
people, and expressly declared she would not receive a single sick man. To this extraordinary
demand we were forced to submit, and I was accordingly ordered to remain on the island with
tlie sick, most of the women and children, and one company of troops to act as nurses, &c.,
until the next steamer should sail. I approved of the proposal to divide the command between
two ships, but could not agree as to the propriety of leaving all the sick for another steamer, as
a similar objection would, probably, be made to their reception on board of her. I was, how-
ever, overruled, and on the 4th August, the Golden Gate sailed with 450 well men, Dr. Deal
acting assistant surgeon. The three months' sujiply for the regiment being stowed away in
the hold of the ship, I placed it in charge of Dr. Deal, with the packer's list, that he might use
such of the medicines and stores as he should need on the voyage ; the remainder to be left with
the medical purveyor at Bcnicia. Dr. Deal was discharged at the termination of the voyage,
and I have not seen him since, nor have I had any report from him. I have ascertained, how-
ever, that he had ninety cases of fever and diarrhcea on the voyage, and throe deaths. These
are embodied in my report. I have also learned that, not- being able to find the box containing
the sulphate of quinine, he had purchased two ounces at Acapulco and borrowed more of the
ship, which has since been returned.
Upon the 7th of August it was announced that the steamer Northerner would take us on board
and sail the next day. The surgeon of that ship was sent on shore to inspect our men ; and
although he thought there were several cases of fever that would die, still, as no infectious
disease was prevailing, he made no objection to receiving them on board. Arrangements were
accordingly made for embarking. The sick were to be fir.st sent on board and accommodated
before the ship should be crowded with the well. By a mistake of the agent a scow was sent
to the island this evening to take us on board. In this scow our baggage was first stowed, and
the sick j^laced upon it. In a few minutes the whole was flooded away, owing to the leaky
condition of the scow. Our sick and baggage were hastily transferred to boats along side, and
thus sent to the steamer. It was this accident that caused the damage to the instruments that
were afterwards condemned by a board of survey.
It appeared afterwards that it was not intended we should be embarked that evening, and
the consequence of the blunder was a remonstrance, on the part of the other passengers, against
our sick being permitted to remain on board. After a great deal of negotiation it was finally
agreed that a few of the worst cases might be left in hospital at Taboga, under the special charge
of the agent of the company, he guaranteeing that every comfort and suitable medical attendance
shoiild be provided for them, and they forwarded as soon as possible. I considered it of the
greatest importance that we should leave that climate, as our well men were daily sickening
with the fever. Accordingly, four men were selected, to be left, by the ship's surgeon, which
satisfied the passengers, and on the 8th of August we embarked the remainder and put to sea.
We arrived at Benicia on the 26th of August, having lost but one man on the voyage. He
died of the secondary fever of cholera. Upon my arrival at Benicia I foimd a large sick-report
from among the men shipped on the Golden Gate. They were ill of diarrhwa, dysentery,
and typhoid fever. The men were destitute of clothing, and were in tents, exposed to intense
heat by day and to very cold nights. By the advice of Assistant Surgeon Griffin they were
ordered from the tents into some new cavalry stables just finished, and with marked good effect.
The character of the fever was decidedlj' tyi)hoid, and the dysenteries generally assumed the
same type.
With regard to the treatment of the cholera as it prevailed among us, I have only to say
s. 90 58
458
RRPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY, ETC.
tliat all the usual mean.s were tried, and with tlie usual want of success. The first cases were
nearly all fatal. I tliink tlie free exhihition of hrandy witli capsieum and chloride sodium was
ahout as successful as anything. "We found the acetas plunibi, in doses of five to ten grains, a
valuable means of restraining tlie diarrhoea; I feel sure many cases were relieved by it that
would have terminated in malignant cholera without speedy relief. Jlnstard and bottles of hot
water with I'rictions of tlie surface externally, camphor, calomel, and quinine internally, were
freely used. But, as I have already remarked, and as usually happens in severe epidemics, the
chances are that the cases first attacked will die, and tliat tlie ratio of the mortality will diminish
with the duration of the epidemic. In this epidemic we lost about eighty men.
Very respectfully, your obd't serv't,
"CHAS. S. TRIPLER,
Brigadier-General Law.sox, Surgeon U. S. Army.
Surgeon-General, Washington, D. G.
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM.
Quarters -.
FIKST.
SECOND.
THIRD.
FOURTH
TEAR.
Proportion of deaths to
cases.
%
Strength
1,
518
1,
474
1,
899
1,
706
1,599
si
o S
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases. 1 Deaths.
bronchitis, acuta ct clironica.
6
116
1
3
5
8
1
21
91
4
3
1
4
1
2
23
2
3
1
5
112
2
2
1
4
2
1
34
342 n
Oin 34
in 342
1 in 2
in 11
Oin 7
lin 17
21
214
I'hthi.^iis pulmocalis
Pleuritis -
9
11
7
17
4
• 1
5.6
6.8
4.4
All other Hiseases of this sys-
tem
10.6
Total
139
1
124
1
31
126
3
420 5
lin 84
262
61
44
38
48
191
Oin 191
120
ABSTRACTS
PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
OCCURRING AMONG THE TROOPS
IN CALIFORNIA.
460
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTKACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
YEiRS
FIRST QUARTER.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1864.
STRENGTH.
CLASSES OF Dlti-
RASES.
Mean strenoth
35.
266.
250.
534.
418.
241.
1,744.
SPECIFIC DISEASEa.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died. Cases. Died.
1 1
Oases.
Died.
Total
cases.
Total
died.
,
' . .
2
1
21
19
2
12
, ; , I
1
2
)
5
44
25
3
13
1
Febris inter, qnotidiana ....
! Febris intermittens tertiana.
Febris ifitermiitens quartana
1
13
3
3
2
1
4
1
r
Eruptive fevers \
[
13
1
6
2
k
1
21 1 1
17
25
2
1
67
26
4
3
3
Diseases of tlie organs
connected with the di-
....
1
1
gestive system.
2
....
7 1
12
6
!!!!!!
1
5
1
3
3
2
22 !
4
2
3
2
21
20
3
101
7
5
2
4
4
6
1
3
9
14
2
13
14
21
nronchilis, acuta ct chronica
4
1
.1
...
70
3
1
Phthisis puhnonalis
1
Diseases of the respira-
1
1
tor}" system.
1
1
, 1
1
1
1
9
1
3
3
'
Diseases of the brain and
1
nervous system.
2
2
2
1
1
4 1
3
5
6
• 1
3
7
7
1
Diseases of the urinary
1 Syphilis primitiva
10
5
2
and genital organs.
S
2
4
6
Diseases of the serous and |
exhalent vessels.
Diseases of the fibrous &.
muscular structures.
5
4
2
8
23
1
10
8
3
1
4
2
1
1
4
2
7
6
53
1
37
16
10
1
28
3
2
5
6
11
9
1
4
3
3
3
3
1
10
17
67
3
Abscesses .and ulcers. . . . '
10
2
4
11
2
2
3
2
1
3
«■••■
Ulcus
2
Contusio
a
5
4
7
6
1
1
Wounds and injuries....
2
1
2
3
1
5
6
1
1
1
1
3
«
3
1
2
1
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
Miscellaneous
....
1
1
3
6
2
9
11
5
_____j 1
1
',
1 4
1
26 16
7
17
1
13S>
3
74
1
265 a
196
1
59
733
B
AMONG THE TROOPS IN OAl.IFORNIA.
AMONG I'HE TROOPS AT POSTS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA.
461
SECOND aUARTEB.
I AGOREUATE
STRENGTH.
1
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
CLASSES OF DIS-
MBA.N STRBNGTB
247.
20O.
151.
589.
387.
269. 1,843.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases
Died. Cases
!
\-
Died.
Cases
iDied 1 Total Total
cases, died.
Febris continua communis .
Febris inter, quotidiana
Febris intermittens tertiana.
Febris intermittens quartana
1
8
3
1
6
1
2
50
33
Fuvers -
12
5
1
4
9
9
13
11
2
2
1
1
2
1
6
1
1
1
1
1
,
29
I'l 6
1
4
70
32
28
25
1
162
40
3
7
1
1
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
(
1
gestive syslera.
! ' i:;;::"
11
12
1
35
27
3
13
1
21
I o
43
47
2
85
10
7
3
15
All other diseases
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
Catarrhus
1
3
4
1
6
15
7
1
1
Diseases of the respira-.
1
1
1 ; 1 2
3 1
3
toiy system.
3
3
14
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
I
Diseases of the brain and.
nervous system.
Epilepsia
J
3
3
7
3
9
7
1
All other diseases
15
2
5
14
37
1
15
15
19
[
3
Diseases of the urinary.
and genital organs.
2
6
4
2
1
2
5
1
3
4
6
3
3
2
Syphilis consecutiva
'
S
Diseases of the serous and J
1
1
1
I
exhalent vessels. '
Diseases of the fibrous &
:::::: ::::::
1
3
1
41
1
65
19
2
38
4
1
2
10
7
13
5
3
4
4
6
3
6
29
27
114
muscular structures.
Rheumatismus
7
1
1
1
I
1
1
17
12
1
1
Abscesses and ulrors.... i
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
13
5
3
1
1
5
22
7
1
6
11
5
1
13
3
1^ 1
•
9
fi
1
2
1
1
1
Wounds and injuries
1
2
3 2
1 3
9 3
3
Vulnus incisum
3
1
1
I
......
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Debtlitas .
1
2
3
1
3
1
1
2
8
6
18
I
2
3
"20
21
67
Miscellaneous
1
:::::;:::::■ ::::::
1
:..::. :
10
9
1
5
5
1
Total
193
2
68
3 I 4fi
422
1
192
108
1
1,029
7
462
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 1.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
Vears
THIRD QUARTER.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
BTRENOTH.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean strenotr
103.
222.
192.
422.
287.
365.
1,591.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.! Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total Total
cases, died.
4
24
3
1
12
3
5
57
17
Febris inter, quotidiana
Febris intermittens terti.ina,
Febris intermittens quartana
2
1
8
4
2
6
9
Fevers i
1
1
1
U
2
6
1
21
1
1
1
1
:::::: : ::
f
11
3
6
4
1
30
5
1
8
1
61
4
120
13
1
I
Diseases of the organs
connected Willi ihedi--^
Enteritis
gestive system.
14
1
1
39
39
3
47
1
5
12
6
3
7
10
13
1
13
S
1
2
7
Rronchitls^aeuta et chronica
i
10
7
1
1
1 ^
1
Diseases of the respira-
1
1
1
3
1
1
jVJl otlier diseases
i::::::
1
1
1
1
19
7
1
13
3
50
1
15
6
13
Ccph alalgia
1
3
10
7
1
Delirium tremens
1
1
Diseases of the brain and ■
Epilepsia
1
1
1
1
nervous system.
Neuralgia
1
3
5
2
2
4
1
2
All other diseases
15
1
f
20
5
1
6
3
2
6
'....
Diseases of the urinarj-
t^vphilis primitiva
3
2
3
1
1
1
2
3
and genital organs.
Syphilis consecutiva
3
1
4 :
Diseases of the serous t
and exhalent vessels. (
All other diseases
1
3
3
.
Pernio
Diseases of the fibrous &
1
muscular structures.
Rhcumatisnius
5
4
4
t
3
1
1
2
8
24
1
74
21
1
1
44
2
2
Abscesses and ulcers
Fistula
10
4
34
10
1
1
12
2
1
8
19
3
3
Ambustio
'
Amputatio
6
12
8
1
5
Fraclura
Lwtatio
1
1
Wounds and injuries .....
Punitio
Sub-luxatio
1
1
2
2
7
4
8
11
6
5
1
20
3
7
1
10
17
6
79
1
4
1
4
2
1
2
1
o
1
3
3
Vulnus laceratum
Vulnus punclum
1
Vulnus sclopelicum
Dcbililas
1
1
11
1
1
5
1
3
1
Ebrietas
1
1
Hernia ,
1
4
5
1
26
1
2
3
6
■ 1
11
Morbi ocuji
1
2 '
1
4
Scorbutus
1
2
All other diseases
8
9
in
15
Total
! "
99
99
1
249
8
97
1
847
10
"-
AMONG THK THOOPS IN CALIFORNIA.
AMONG THE TOOOPS AT POSTS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA.
463
FOURTH QITARTEK.
Years
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1
1854.
BTREIiGTH.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean strength....... 144.
211.
161.
432.
%o.
3SS. 1 1,650.
. SPECIFIC DISEASES. Ca-^es.
Died.
1
Cases. Died. Cases.
1
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
niprf I'"'"' Total
"'«''• cases, died.
2
14
3
2
26
1
1
7
1
4
2
Febris intermittens tertiana. 1
2
2
10
Febris intermittens qiiartana
2
1
1
1
1
4
f
Eruptive fevers -j
1
15
2
3
10
4
^
45
1
2 ' 4
1
20
99
7
3
2
Dysenteria acuta
Dysentcria chronica
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di--
gestive system.
i
7
8
9
10
7
17
24
3
41
1
3
4
2
All other diseases
1
2
1
5
1
1
1
I
5
I
6
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
4
1
16
2
1
1
Uiseases of the respira-
tory system.
2
1
2
1
1
1
Diseases of the brain and
nervous system.
I
Cephalalgia
1
1
2
3
2
3
9
4
5
3
23
Epilepsia
1
2
2
1
1
1
4
1
1
1
5
3
11
Diseases of the urinary
8
3
4
1
1
2
1
6
15
5
18
and genital organs.
' Syphilis consccutiva
1
L
Diseases of the serous (
and exhalent vessels. *
r
3
3
6
Diseases of the fibrous &. J
muscular structures.
6
«
5
7
8
12
44
4
5
1
5
1'
1
12
3
14
6
1
43
14
3
Ulcus
4
1
Contusio
Fractura
7
1
6
2
I
5
1
10
5
15
48
4
1
Wounds and injuries
2
2
2
3
4
1
10
4
1
IS
1
' 10
2"
1
1
1
2
9
1
3
S
5
6
1
3
10
6
30
\
1
1
I
S
3
2
1
1
1
1
3
1
Miscellaneous
i
1 ^
I
5
I
9
1
I
2
1
4
2
a
[•
1
4
4
\
7
4
Total
72
78
1 .13
159
o
77
' 1
152
1 1 531 5
464
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS ANn MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING
CLASSES OP DIS-
EASES.
FIRST QUARTER.
1849. 1850. 1851. | 1852. ; 1853. 1854.
1 f
STRENUTU.
Mean strength
44. 338.
1 1 1
170. 353. 530. 1 284.
1,518.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases
Died.
Cases. Died. CasesJ Died. Cases.! Died.
Cases
Died.
Cases. Died.
1 Total Total
cases., ditd.
1
la
in
1
o
Febris inter, quotidiana
8
13
4
40
R
::::::
85
9
73
17
181
89
7
45
2
3
2
Febris intermittens quartana
....
1
29 1
4
6
1
1
5
1
Febris typhus
1
1
1
1
1
2
!
Cholera Asiatica
10 ! 1
9
. . 1 14
26
2
29
2
88
5
3
3
3
Disenses of the organs
3
1
1
connected with the tU- ,
gestive system.
1
1
2
2
6
1
1
3
4
12
6
1
35
5
3
2
38
29
11
6
116
1
3
5
8
4
S4
2
3
8
5
2
1
11
6
1
1
20
1
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
1
1
1
29
Diseases of the rcspira-
Phthisis pulmonalis
1
tor>- system.
I
3
1
1
2
5
**
3
...
1
6
I
1
1
2
2
1
1
1
3
5
:.:::-.::
9
1
.**
Disease:* uf the brain and
i Epilepsia
1 Nc-ur.ilcia
1
nervous system.
2
1
::;:::l::::
2 1
1
1
3
2
3
1
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
1
1..
Syphilis consccutiva
3
3
3
1
1
1
4
2
Diseases of the serous,
and exhalent vessels. (
Diseases of the fibrous & j
muscular structures. |
2
11
6
4
33
6
61
Abscesses and ulcers ..., j
1
Fistula
Phlegmon et absccssus
Ulcus
1
2
3
a
3
1
11
3
10
1
28
14
9
8
6
•1
....
4
8
3
1
11
1
4
33
4
1
3
3
35
2
3
4
8
34
7
3
5
R
15
1
54
Wounds and injuries
3
1
13
2
2
2
2
12 1
1
2
1
4
1
6
1
1
}
(
1 '
1
3
Dchilitas
3
......
1
5
a
3
4
Hernia
1
a
1
1
1 , !
Miscellaneous -i
1
2 1
1
1
::::::i : i
I
U
^
1 ...._.!
II
3
1
17
3
.... .'--|-:::m
1
1 1
1
4
6
3
12 1
1
34
1S6
6
170 1 319 1 4 329 '
906
II
"" 1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN CALIFORNIA.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA.
465
Years
SECOND aUARTER.
1849. 1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
BTUE.NOTU.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean strength
107.
72.
207.
320.
351.
417.
1,474.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died. Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases
Died.
Total Toul
cases, died.
Febris continua communis. .
1
3
96
42
"
229
115
1
1
'« 1
21
37
96
14
Febris intermillens tLTtiana.
Febris intermittens tjuarlana
5
Fevers
1
17
1
3
5
3
■■■""■ 1
Ervsii)elas
1
■■"■
Erupuve fevers J
f
Cholera Asiatica
. 1 • . •
17
10
2
1
27
4
15
4
37
21
2
1
5
7
Dysenteria chronica
' Enteritis
' " i
9
Diseases of the orf^aiis
i t
riinnected with the di-
1
■■;•■'
gestive system.
j
5 1
4
13
10
U
36
1
7
14
4
12
1
1
6
4
3
26
31
36
1 Ol
■
3
3
5
2
2
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
1
6
91
4
3
1
4
8
9
7
3
4
37
1
28
6
11
DLsejLses ol the respira-
toiy system.
Phthisis pulmonalis
1
2
1
All other diseases
1
3
1
4
2
3
2
5
1
2
1
1
nervous system.
1
3
1
1
1
1
15
1
2
u
I
Striciura urethra?
1
16
3
Diseases ot the urinary
12
and genital organs.
1 Syphilis conseeutiva
....
2
1
1
1
7 ,
1
2
1
.All other diseases
1
1
3
Diseases of the fibrous & j
Pernio
3
muscular structures. j
!
9
2
2
8
22
3
17
1
10
1
3
10
1
20
4
1
A....
44
4
56
12
Abscesses and ulcers . . . . ■
2
1
3
1
4
13
1
12
1
24
2
53
Lu.vatio
Wounds and injuries....
1
1
4
1
4
6
2
4
5
11
11
6
1 1
Vulnus punctuni
1
1
1
2
5
ID
4
3
8
f
2
3
1
1
6
4
1
3
5
2
13
6
S
1
1
11
1
Hernia
1
Miscellaneous ■
2
o
C
1
2
ID
2
90
14
2
8
1
19
1
1
a
4
34
1 Total
46 '
53
2
149
'
290
3
297
4
365
1
t
1^ -
S. 90-
-5!»
466
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
No. 2.— ABSTRACT OF THE PKINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRiNG
Years
THIRD aUAkTEK.
1
AOOREOATK
8TRENOTH.
1849.
1850. 1851. 1852.
1853. 1854. '
CLASSKS OP UIS-
69. 264. 633.
185.
348.
1,699.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Uases.
Died. Cases.' Died. 'Cases.
:
Died. Coses. Died.
C«ses.| Died, cases' Died 'jr^L'S'
Febri.s eontinua communis .
1
18 i 1 18
109 1 566
7 70
3 27
241
106
1
138
2
12
l.M
1
71
23
1
1 Febrisitilennittens quartana
1
18
I
43
22 1 10
10 1
1
10
1
1
IBO
80
1
1
160 80
1
2 25
2 ■ 2
293
45
7 25
1 1 3
351
1
53
1
1
1
1
Diseases ot llie orf-ans
connected with the di-'
Entcrili";
1.... 1.. ..
1
■■■■■■|;:::::
gestive system.
1
1
7
4
2
6
2
40 1
8
11
17
' 79 1
' 27
1
9
51
2
S3
1
1
1 Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
10
3
4
,
Diseases of the respira-.
PlLMiriii*; i
1
2
•)
tory system.
;
1 i
1
1
1
1
3
1
1
4
4 1
Diseases o( Hie brain and
1
2
3
nervous system.
1
3
5
19
4
1
1
B
1
3
7
1
....
Diseases of the urinary
1
9
2
1 11
and genital organs.
1
3
1
2
7
Diseases of the serous c
and exhiilent vessels. <
Diseases of the fibrous &.,
muscular structures.
Abscesses and ulcers — ■
1
1 :
'*"
1
j i
j 1 1
1
1
10
2
14
2
22
5
1
38
1
2
18
9
2
.... fi
50
15
1
1
4(1
i Ulcus
4
1
1
12
Aiiiputalio
Contusio
6
1
IB
a
1
;::::? 4
1
Wounds and injuries -J
5
1
1
2
3
5
■■e"::;;:
j Vulnus incisum
3
1
5
5
12
11
9
Vulnus puuclum
1
1
2
1
1
1
5
5
2 1 .■;
r Debjlitas
2
1
5
4
1 "
13
3
1
2
10
Hernia
1
3
2
11
14
10
5
1
o
3
10
i
Morbi oculi
1
3
1
3
4
1
1
1
29
1
i
1 9
10
3 G
Total
1
.__.. i.._...
18 1 9^
1 125 14
222 i S
277 i 1 l-Mfi
97
' 1
AMONG THE TROOPS IN CALIFORNIA.
AMONG THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA.
467
FOURTH QUARTER.
&aORE(
STEEN
Years
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
3TH.
CLASSES OP DIS-
EASES.
Mean strength
274.
207.
128.
466.
273.
358. 1,7
96.
SPECIFIC Dl!»EASES. Cases.
Bied. (
;:aseB.
< t
Died. Cases. Died. Cases.
• !
Died. Cascs.l Died. Cases. Died. "^"^^
Total
died.
Fevers ■
Febris continua communis..
Fehris int. quotidiana
Febris intermiitens tertiana.
Febris intermittens quartana
1 .
16
15 .
50
1 1 1
1
146
16
■
3
387
142 j
2
5
82
4
39 '.
5 .
1 .
' 115
13
1
6S
11
1
10.
5
7
91
2 1 G
8
3
5
Eruptive fevers \
2
1
1
.... ] ....
j
i
16
22
8
52
19
4
28
17
1
131
46
1
5
Dysenteria acuta
4
1
1
1
1
4
1
5
Diseases of the organs
connected witti the rti- -
2
1
3
1
31
32
5
112
2
1
4
17
17
2
3
3
14
1
12
1
2
gestive system.
1
1
8
5
•
1
2
2
3
8
13
1
70
1
2
6
All other diseases
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
3
4
7
1
1
t
17
1
13
5
Phthisis puhnonalis
1
1
2
Diseases of the respira-
1
1
lory system.
1
1
9
4
1
1
2
2
4
1
1
f
3
5
1
3
1
5
1
3
nervous system.
2
1
1
1
1
2
2
r
Gonorrhoea
2
2
4
Diseases of the urinary
and genital organs.
SyphiHs priniitiva
Sypliilis conseeutiva
1
1
2
8
.
2
Diseases of the serous (
and exhalent vessels. (
r
1
1
2
'1
2
1
2
5
1
3
1
Diseases of the fibrous & J
muscular structures, j
6
6
6
20
8
2
48
Abscesses and ulcers ,. . . ■
Phlegmon etabscessus
Ulcus
1
1
3
1
4
5
19
5
1
8
8
2
5
7 1
41
22
8
1
4
5
5
I
20
1
14
1
12
1
60
4
"Wounds and injuries ■
i
1
2
1 ;
4
i
2
1
1 :
4
13
10
2
1
1
1
1 3
1 3
i
I
1
5
3
2
1
3
1
1
2
27
1
1
1 Debilitas
3
1
12
10
1
6
2
1
1
1
1
16
5
3
1
. 1
;
r '"' i
....:.! 3
5
1
5
Morbi ocuH
3
. 46
! =
3
3 17
3 53
4
1
4
. 4
. 3
11
1
23
19
6 66
Total
. 222
7
142
3 164
1 458
19
319
2
173 1
.1,478
33
OREGON AND WASHINGTON TEREITORIES.
The troops serving in tlie Territories of Oregon and Washington have been, for the most
part, stationed at Fort Lane, Fort Orford, Astoria, Fort Vancouver or Columbia Barracks,
Fort Dalles, Cantonment Loring, and Fort Steilacoom.
In the absence of special reports, the compiler is only able to state, in regard to Fort Lane,
that it is situated in the interior of the southern part of Oregon, on Eogue river, in a valley
opening to the west, having high mountain ranges in the vicinity. It was established in De-
cember, 1853.
Fort Oeford is at Port Orford, about ten miles south of Cape Blanco or Orford. The po-
sition is at the head of Tichenor bay, opening southward, with a direct exposure to the Pacific.
FORT VANCOUVER.
A medico-topographical report of this post, furnished by Assistant Surgeon Holden, in 1849,
-was received in a damaged condition, having been wet in the mail, and is now, on examina-
tion, found illegible. As the immediate site of the fort has been changed since that period,
the loss is the less to be regretted. The present position is about ninety miles in a direct line
from the sea, on the north side of the Columbia river, and consequently within the Territory of
Washington. The river is about 1,600 yards wide, and fourteen feet deep at the fort. The
country adjacent is covered with lofty pines. The valley of the river opens northwestward
here, and the Coast range of mountains protects the post from sea exposure.
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF ASTORIA.
By Assistant Surgeon Israel Moses : 1852.
The Columbia river is formed by the confluence of two streams; the northern, or Clark's
river, arises in the Kocky Mountains, about latitude .54°, near some high peaks, called Hooker
and Brown; the southern, called also Lewis', Saptin, or Snake river, having its source
in the Wind Kiver chain, in latitude 43°, and following an irregular and serpentine course,
unites its waters with those of the North branch, near Fort Wallawalla, to form the largest
river on this Pacific coast, which pours its immense volume into the ocean, in latitude 46° 30'.
Cape Disappointment, on the north, is a high, narrow, and pine-covered promontory, joining
the main land by a low neck, over which there is a portage for canoes and boats to Shoal-water
bay. The shore sweeps round to Chinook point, forming a deep bay (Baker's) six miles wide,
Chinook point, which is the chief fishing ground of the natives, is a bare hill, gradually
sloping towards the water, and sending a long sand-spit far into the bay. From this point the
northern bank of the river stretches along with numerous indentations, and receives several
small streams.
Point Adams— a low, sandy spit, putting out some two miles — forms the southern promontory,
about four miles across from Cape Disappointment. This is the terminating point of an exten-
470 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
sive flat, sandy plain, of move than twenty miles long and four wide, thrown up ])y tlie waves,
and left hy a retrocession of the ocean. The original and true southern promontory is Killa-
mook Head, now thirty miles below the mouth of tlie river. Tlie entrances from the sea are
two narrow channels leading into Baker's hay and along the southern promontory, between
sand-spits and shoals, over which the waVes foam and boil in so tumultuous a manner when
the wind is high, as to have rendered the entrance of tliis river a terror to mariners. Wild
and awful, too, is the picture, and fearful the sensation, to the stranger who approaches this
notorious bar tor the first time during the winter season. The dangers have, however, been
much lessened by the indefatigable energy and perseverance of Captain Charles White, of New
York, wlio, in the winter of 1849-'50, brought up a pilot-boat and perilled life and property
in his professional exertions to diminish the dangers of the bar. Previous to this time no ves-
sel had been brought in by the southern channel. He, however, soon established it as the
safest and easiest entrance, and since then few vessels have followed the former route. Though
this southern entrance has been known, and is spoken of by Wilkes, it was condemned as highly
dangerous. Within a comparatively short period, however, the main current of the river
seems to have changed towards the soutliern shore; and not only has theclumnel deepened and
become more direct, but tlie banks have yielded ; and should the change continue, time will
still farther diminish the risk as tlie commerce of the country attracts greater numbers of vessels.
From Point Adams to Sliark Point tlie shore makes a deep bend, forming Young's bay, about
four and a half or five miles across, into which flow several small streams from the south.
From Shark Point to Tongue Point — a high, narrow peninsula — the shore forms a gentle curve,
interrupted by a projecting shelf, of small extent, where is the site of the original Astoria, and
now occupied as a military post. The place commemorates, by its name, the originator of one
of those bold strokes of genius which commercial minds often conceive for the extension of
trade, and which not only brings pecuniary gains to the individual, but opens new and ex-
tended sources of national wealth. What then failed of success, through the infidelity of
private agents and the breaking out of national hostilities, the unalterable course of destiny
has brought about; not, however, before a rival and foreign company have for years held un-
disputed sway, and reaped a golden harvest.
Strangers arriving in the country are universally disaj^pointed on seeing Astoria. Their
memory filled with the entertaining narrative of the early settlement of the place, written by
Washington Irving, a pleasing picture of an old settlement arises in their mind, and witli
eager gaze, as they enter the river, their eyes seek this familiar spot ; but their dream is soon
dispelled by the view of a line of rough bank, thickly grown with fir-trees to the water's edge,
and rising in irregular and broken back-ground.
On our arrival at this place, but little of the original establishment could be traced; the
knoll upon which the buildings stand contains about twenty acres of cleared land, bacted by an
impenetrable forest of pines. All the structures erected by the first occupants were destroyed
by fire some years ago, and their only memorials are the decaying ends of pickets and heaps of
crumbling chimneys. The Hudson's Bay Company erected several buildings, and made improve-
ments, as long as the trade with the Indians made its occupancy desirable; but for several years
previous to our arrival, the post had become of little trading value, and the buildings had been
allowed to fall into decay.
After the treaty of 184C), when the provisional territorial government enacted laws for the
benefit of settlers, the lands between Shark and Tongue points were taken as "claims" by
squatters, who have built themselves small houses and cultivated garden patches. The site
occupied and recognized as Astoria was included in these claims, without any respect to its oc-
cupancy, by the Hudson's Bay Company. On the arrival of General John Adair, the first col-
lector at the port of Astoria, the custom-house and post office were located one mile above,
where he established himself; and this spot is now called Astoria by some, wliile that below is
distinguished as Fort George ; but this is contended by the rival occupants. Since the establish-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES. 471
ment of the military at tliis post, the citizens still occupy in common with the troops; and no
reserves in this Territory having been confirmed at Washington, they have continued to erect
buildings and make improvements.*
Immediately upon our arrival we went into camp, and set to work busily to repair the build-
ings abandoned by the company, and erect such others as would afford us convenient shelter
for the approaching winter. This was accomplished early in November,.
The country, generally, in the vicinity of Astoria, is extremely rough and rugged, broken by
hills and gulches, covered with a dense forest of hemlock, spruce, cedar, Cottonwood, ash, and
willow, with an undergrowth of shrubs, bushes, and vines, that render it almost impossible for
man or animal to penetrate. A few localities are less densely wooded, and entice the settler to
pitch his tent and commence the toil of opening a farm. Clatsop plains, about fifteen miles
long and four wide, is the only farming district which, as yet, has yielded crops. It is a series
of three sand ridges, successively thrown up by the ocean's waves^ and left by its receding
waters; the more recent formation is covered with a thin stratum of decayed vegetable matter,
which increases so as to afford a foot or more depth of soil in the older formation ; a narrow,
shallow rivulet winds through, fringed with cottouwoods and willows. A narrow belt of forest
sejiarates these plains from the richer soil.
At Astoria, the soil is, for the most part, a heavy red and black clay, mixed with some gravel,
which becomes, during the rainy season, soft and sticky ; and in the summer, dry and fissured;
the beach is covered with pebbles and conglomerate of clay and lime, enclosing petrified shells
and marine animals. Broken masses of scoriaceous rock lie along the water's edge and crop
out from the banks.
Pre-eminent among the forest trees, are those of the pine tribe; three varieties are found:
abies Douglasii, often attaining incredible height and circumference ; abies 3Ienziesii and A.
taxi/olia, or yew-leaved hemlock; fhuga occidentalis, or red cedar; also jum2}er us Virginiana,
or Virginian juniper; acer macrophylla, or large-leaved maple, not found east of the Kocky
Mountains; and A. circinata, or vine maple. Of the varieties of cottonwoods : ^^opulus balsami-
fera, P. candidum, and P. Iremulus, or aspen; Salix macj-ojjJujUa, and augusfifoUa, large and
low-leaved willows; quercus alba, or white oak, is not found below Tongue Point; fraxinus
nigra, black ash ; cerasus Pennsylv aniens, or wild cherry ; and arbutus laurifolia, are the most
prominent of the trees. There are innumerable varieties of bushes and creeping plants: Ribes
sanguinaria, red flowering currant; ribes s^mriosa, wild gooseberry; rubus nufocamis, capberry;
P. speclabilis, thumb-raspberry; and P. pinnatifolia ; the strawberry, /rac/aWa vesca; cran-
berry, oxycoccus macrocarpus ; gaultheria sliallon. These are all wild; their fruit inferior in
size and flavor to the cultivated varieties. The potato, turnip, cabbage, and beet, arc largely
cultivated^ and attain an enormous size and great perfection. Wheat and corn will not ripen
except in warm-sheltered nooks ; oats are well adapted to the soil and climate ; the small garden
vegetables only succeed with great care, and are apt to be destroyed by the cold nights and late
frosts; the larger fruits — peaches, apples, and pears — do not ripen. The grasses, growing on
the tide-lands, are tender, and afford a nutritious food to animals, who are able to keep in good
condition throughout the year by grazing. Farmers rarely make any winter ju-ovision for
their stock, the mildness of the winter not requiring them to be housed or fed.
Deer, antelope, and black bear, are found immediately in the vicinity; the cougar inhabits
the woods with the rabbit and squirrel; beaver and otter are found on the small streams and
along the coast; the various species of wild fowl — swan, sandhill crane, geese, ducks, and snipe —
abound, and are brought in in plentiful supply by the Indians; there are also jjclicans, gulls,
eagles, (the bald and osprey,) crows, ravens, woodpeckers, swallows, and robins; flocks of
pigeons, or doves, {Columba zanaida), not found on the Atlantic coast, arrive early in the spring,
and the trees are often l>roken by their weight; they are inferior in flavor to the wild pigeon on
- Siuce the above was written, Astoria has beeu given up as a military post, and Cape Disappoiutmeut has been reserved.
472 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
the eastern side of the mountains ; the grouse tuul plieasaiit do not inhabit this locality ; there
is a remarkable absence of singing-birds.
Of the rcptilia, none of the poisonous varieties are ibund ; a green snake, with longitudinal
dark stripes,.two to three feet long, the lizard, and snail, are seen.
Comparatively few flies, and no mosquitoes, or other annoying insects, disturb the resident;
the sand-fly is occasionally troublesome toward sunset, on warm and still evenings.
The principal food of the natives, and, until within a very few years of the early settlers in
this vicinity, consisted of fish, which, from its abundance and variety, affords plentiful provision
throughout the year. Soon after the rainy season, and early in spring, the fishing season com-
mences, and the natives awake from their winter lethargy to prepare for the busy time that
approaches. Canoes are launched and refitted ; the nets are repaired, and gay trappings put
on. This is the season of mirth and plenty. About the middle of April, the sturgeon
(Accipenser) makes its appearance; its flesh is more delicate and palatable than the same variety
caught on the Atlantic coast. The natives take it by hook and line, or spear; it attains a very
large size. Toward tlie middle of May the salmon {aalmo salar) begin to come in, and increase
so as to make tlie bay merry with their sport; they swim near the surface, and continually leap
into the air, often several feet high ; they run in vast shoals until the middle of summer. Sun-
rise and sunset are the most favorable periods for taking them ; and the best fishing grounds
are where the sand-spits run far out in the bay. Chinook Point is the favorite resort of the
tribes at the mouth of the Columbia; and here, morning and evening, they draw their nets, or,
standing waistdeej) in the water, spear their game. Their nets are long and narrow, made of
grass-twine; the sinkers, of stones, and floats, of wood. Leaving one end fixed in the beach,
the remainder is coiled up in a small canoe, which is paddled out thirty or forty yards, following
a long curve, and again brought to shore. This is continued as often as fish are caught, or
until the required number are obtained. An ancient superstition deters them from selling to
the whites until the salmon berries are ripe; and, in no case, will they part with a salmon until
the heart is taken out. Upon the strict observance of these points, they rely for the plentiful-
ness of the season. To prepare for winter use, the salmon is cut in thin slices or strips and
dried on frames hung over slow fires and along the rafters of the lodge, or pounded fine and
put up in bundles after being dried. The fall, or niasache salmon, is an inferior variety, which
runs in September and October; lean, of a pale pink color; and having long sharp teeth. In
seasons of scarcity, it is put up for winter use; but is generally not much esteemed. Richard-
son, in his Fauna Americana, describes seven varieties of salmon in the Columbia river.
The cod, or a fish much resembling it, is taken at the entrance of the bay, outside of the bar.
Of the small fish — flounder, perch, suckers, and, occasionally, the "ulican;" this last, from
being very abundant, suddenly disappeared from this locality, and is now found only in the
. harbors and inlets to the north. It is a delicious fish, resembling our "smelt" in size and fla-
vor, and so fat that, when dried, it is often burned by the natives to give light. The fisheries
have, to a limited extent, been carried on by the Hudson's Bay Company, asamatter of commerce,
and lately by Americans. The salmon is salted and put up in barrels, and has obtained a good
market in the islands and in California. In experienced hands, it would prove a source of great
profit. Oysters are found in the bays and inlets, north of Cape Disappointment, small in size,
but of good flavor ; the various kinds of soft and hard-shelled clams, muscles, terrapins, and
crawfish. The former are large and of fine flavor, superior to the oysters, which are much im-
proved by cultivation. Contemptible, however, as they would appear to one living on the At-
lantic coast, tliey are readily sold in San Francisco at the enormous price of ten dollars the
bushel. A gentleman from Virginia is now engaged in planting and feeding them, and from
his success, thus far, there is every reason for believing they will attain a size and flavor e(iual
to the finest of our Atlantic shore.
From the above imj^erfect notice of the natural productions, I turn to a brief account of the
AMONG THE TROOPS IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES. 473
Indian tribes residing near the mouth of the Columbia. These consist of a few and wretched
representatives of three once powerful tribes — the Chinooks, Clatsops, and Cathalamets.
The Chinooks reside on the north bank of the river, along Baker's bay, Cliinook point, and
Shoal-water bay, and are about 150 in number. They once boasted of 300 warriors, and the
famous Concomly as their chief^ but are now fast disappearing before the white man; their
fishing grounds are desirable for future value, and even their burial-places are eagerly sought
after as "good claims."
The Clatsops reside, as their name imports, on Clatsop plains. This tribe^ which, at the
time of the settlement of Astoria, numbered 180 warriors, is now reduced to about 20, who
can hardly be said to have a local habitation. They wander about, pitching their tents or
lounging about the residences of the whites, awaiting the no distant period of their entire exter-
mination.
The Cathalamets, who are found on the island and along the banks of the river, twenty or
thirty miles above, have been less exposed to intercourse with the whites, and have not dis-
appeared as rapidly ; they are, however, scattered, few in number, and gradually becoming ex-
tinct. Among them resides an old Indian, called Squamarke, who is looked iipon as a sort of
chief of all these scattered bands, and exerts considerable influence among them. I have heard
him recite, in poetic strain, of the past glories of his race; of the martial deeds of his sire; the
trophies of victory, and the triumphs after return from battle; yet, this bard of military deeds
and last representative of the shadowy glory of the race, does not scruple to get beastly drunk,
and has lately sold his grand-daughter for one hundred and fifty dollars, payable in blankets.
All feud has ceased among these various tribes; neither has anything to excite the cupidity of
the other, and but few individuals are possessed of any weapons. They rarely quarrel, except
when maddened by intoxicating drinks, and then, not unfrequently, one or more are shot or
stabbed. He who possesses a canoe and a few blankets is esteemed wealthy ; rarely an indi-
vidual accumulates about him a large number of articles of finery. A few horses are found
among them ; but their chief mode of conveyance is by canoes, and it excites our surprise and
admiration to witness the skill with which they manage these beautiful models of naval archi-
tecture. They are shaped from cedar-trees, and vary greatly in size. Those used by the
natives along the coast, and in the neighborhood of Puget Sound, are often from forty to sixty
feet in length, and twelve to fifteen feet in breadth of beam, capable of accommodating sixty
men. They are rapidly propelled through the water by short paddles, skilfully handled by both
sexes, who kneel on rushes placed in the bottom of the canoe. Their shape is the model, in
many points, of our new clipper ships, long, sharp bows, with little curve from gunwale to
keel ; painted or stained black on the outside, and red within ; their prows ornamented with
small pebbles or shells. A hatchet and knife are the only tools employed in shaping them, and
we cannot refrain from admiring the ingenuity of a people who can achieve such perfection of
finish with rude instruments. What might they not accomplish, if supplied with and taught
the use of tools, employed in our mechanical arts? In rough and windy weather, they carry
an immense sail, and the canoe is impelled through the water with the speed of a fish, rising on
the tops of the highest waves without danger of upsetting. When the stormy west winds are
driving the white caps high on the bar, I have heard a party shouting and singing, with gay
dresses and gaudy ribbons, as their little bark tossed and sirorted on the angry waters. These
coast Indians are as much at home on the water as the Apache on the plains, or the Arab oa
the desert.
All these several tribes speak the same language, follow the same customs, and resemble each
other in manners, dress, and person. The majority of both sexes are short, with heavy, stout
bodies and limbs; generally from five to five and a half feet in height, with low forehead, ren-
dered still lower in appearance by the flattening of the head ; long, straight, coarse black hair,
which is preserved with great care by both sexes ; they comb, grease with fish-oil, plait, braid,
and decorate it with bright ribbons. All traces of beard on the face are carefully eradicated ; also
s. 96 60
474 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
that on the pubes of either sex. Mouth wide, teeth small, and often worn to the gums ; lips short,
thick, and everted. The females, especially, often become grossly fat. They have short,
bowed, fat legs and thighs, large ancles, but small feet. The females have no attraction of
face or form. Personal beauty is rarely seen. They are filthy in their habits and persons.
When they have been taken as wives by the early settlers they easily learn the customs, and accom-
modate themselves to cleanly and domestic habits. The half-breeds are more comely, and occa-
sionally handsome. Tliese, as soon as they reach the age of ])uberty, and sometimes even
before, become the wives or mistresses of the whites. These Indians have generally assumed
the dress of civilized nations, and a few seem well and genteelly clothed. Many of the females
have learned to make their own garments. Most frequently they present a fantastic arrange-
ment of articles. In their primitive condition their only mantle in summer was a fringe made
of grass, or fibres of cedar bark, covering the pelvis; in winter they wrapjied themselves in
mats or the skins of animals, and burying themselves in holes dug in the ground, or small
lodges built of mats and cedar branches, there remain during the rainy season, with a small
fire in the centre, filling the jdace with smoke — a small aperture in the roof being its only
means of escape. Within a few years they have erected large lodges of boards and planks
picked up along the river banks carried down by the current, and floated ofl" from the mills by
the spring freshets. Since the discovery of gold on the Pacific coast the Indians have occasion-
ally accumulated quite large sums, but, as their only idea of the object of money is to satisfy their
immediate wants, they rarely have it. When the mines of California almost entirely deprived
Oregon of its male jjopulation, the Indians became useful as laborers; and when canoe travell-
ing was the only means of transportation, they reaped a rich harvest. Like all savage tribes,
they are inconstant, and, having obtained sufficient to satisfy their present desires, no induce-
ments will prevail upon them to continue any useful occupation.
In morals they resemble most of the Indian tribes. As soon as a man is able to support a
wife he makes his selection, informs the parents and friends who, in conclave, determine the
amount to be paid by the suitor. This being arranged satisfactorily, a day is appointed when
a mutual exchange is made ; the bride being turned over to the groom, the blankets, horses,
canoes, and slaves are paid to the wife's relations ; a dance, a feast, an exchange of presents,
and not unfrequently a bloody quarrel end the ceremony. A chief may possess as many wives
as he can support, but, as among less barbarous nations, he has one favorite. Being thus a
merchantable article, their women may be procured by any respectable native or white man who
can afi"ord the prices. Chastity is unknown among the single, and constancy rarely practised
among the married. Occasional exceptions may be found among those who have white hus-
bands.
Their religion, if it may be so called, is the belief in a good and evil spirit. The former
dwells above, and is called "Sahaleedikee" (a name given to any high official personage), who,
when pleased, sends mild winters, abundance of salmon, and fruitful summers. His wrath is
betokened by a hard winter, scarcity, and epidemic diseases. There are some curious and inter-
esting myths among them. Particular localities are supposed to be the favorite abodes of the
good spirit. They have a faint tradition of a deluge and earthquakes.
The decay of the Indian tribes along the Columbia has been ieari'ully rapid. A robust and
numerous people, they have disappeared almost as by the wand of a magician. A severely
fatal epidemic of measles carried ofi' nearly half the tribes in 1829 and 1830, which was fol-
lowed by a congestive form of intermittent fever, that lias reappeared at various times^ and
created vast havoc ; but the scourge of these nations has been syphilis, and its sequent, scroihla,
in the most fatal forms. At the period of Lewis and Clark's visit to the mouth of the Columbia^
syphilis was scarcely known ; but as soon as vessels began to enter the river the disease ajipeared,
and rapidly spread. Ignorant of any curative means, vast numbers have died from the primary
disease, while in its secondary and transmitted forms, generations have perished unborn ; glandu-
lar and eruptive diseases have carried off the infants ; tubercular phthisis bliglited their youths.
AMONG THE TROOPS IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES. 475
and brought their young men and matrons to premature old age, and an early grave. It is
remarkable that very few can be found among the men who have not lost one eye by opthalmia
(syjihilitic or gonorrhoeal). Many are absolutely deformed by enlargement of the cervical
glands, frequently suppurating, discharging, and forming frightful cicatrices. Hare-lip and
cleft palate are often seen ; the idiopathic, and severer forms of malarial fever, almost never.
Abortion is common, and not uufrequently brought about intentionally. Child-bearing is a no
more easy nor less* dangerous process than among other females in the same circumstances of
life. The older females of the neighborhood are the midwives, and are quite as good and use-
ful as our more fashionable monthly nurses. Where nature is not interfered with, and no
unusual malposition or malformation presents, the infant safely enters the world. Should any
anormal circumstances arise, the child or mother, or most frequently both, are sacrificed. The
attending midwife calls in consultation other sagefemmes, and these failing to afford relief, the
woman is left to die. But deformity of the pelvis being rare, and the children generally small,
these accidents seldom occur. The infant, immediately after ablution, is straightened out,
tightly swathed, with the arms included, and placed on a board to be submitted to the process
of flattening of the head. This is eifected by pads, suitably placed over the frontal bone,
inclining from the superciliary arch to the vertex ; counter pressure being made by a pad under
the occipital bone. The pressure is maintained during one year, when the bones having suf-
ficiently ossified to retain the desired shape, the pads are removed. Infants do not appear to
suffer by this pressure, which is kept up day and night; they nurse well, and sleep comfortably.
Among certain tribes side-pads are used, so as to render the head pointfed ; but this is not fol-
lowed with the Chinooks.
In ordinary cases of sickness the aid of the medicine man, or doctor, is called in. This indi-
viduaJ is held in high estimation, and demands large fees for his advice and services; these are
given at a vast personal risk, and somewhat upon the terms of their advertising professional
brethren in large cities. Upon visiting the patient, and receiving his fee, the doctor goes
actively to work to drive out the evil spirit from the suffering body, where it has assumed the
form of a wolf, a snake, a beaver, or large stone. The friends having formed a circle, a low and
solemn incantation is commenced, accompanied by the regular beating of small sticks of wood,
and gradually swelling in tone and rapidity of utterance until it becomes a howling, yelling,
frightful succession of sounds. The doctor, sitting at the bed-side, swaying his body to and
fro, keeping time to his song of invocation, begins to press and knead the breast and abdomen.
As he becomes excited, he jumps up, and dances about the lodge, with constant and most
fatiguing gesticulation of head, arms, legs, and body, until he either becomes frantic by excite-
citement, or falls exhausted. Having by this time arrived at a just appreciation of the shape
of the disease, he retires from the lodge, and after a suitable interval returns, and in a most
dignified manner resumes his position and song. When thus a second time the necessary pitch
of excitement is attained, he suddenly thrusts his hands beneath the blankets, and to the sur-
prise, delight, and admiration of the assembled friends, jerks out, and casts among them, a
dead wolf, serpent, beaver, or stone, having thus successfully combatted the disease. Should
the unhappy victim of Ji^sculapian art fortunately get well, the doctor remains in peaceful
enjoyment of his professional gains. Should death, however, have knocked at the door of the
lodge during these mockeries, as he invariably does in severe cases, the doctor not only has
expended his time and labor for nothing, but now has forfeited his life by failing to restore his
patient to health. If he can compromise the matter with the relations and friends of the dis-
eased, by paying his value, estimated in horses, blankets, canoes, or slaves, he redeems his owq
life ; but failing to satisfy the demands of the aflilicted, who are usually very exacting, he may
not expect to live to see the sun rise many times.
The burial grounds in the neighborhood and along the river, attest the numbers of this
people who have passed away; they are sacred spots near the bank, and often on naked and
isolated rocks. The corpse, if of a chief, or distinguished man, attired in his best habiliments
«
476 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
and gaudiest ornaments, is wrapped in blankets, and placed iu Ids canoe, lii.s tisliing-nct and
spears by his side; aioinid are bung cooking ntensils, tin-jians, and plates; and thus equipjied,
he is suspended on the branches of a tree, or raised on a platform, if buried on the main land;
or secured on the top of some island rock, his spirit enjoying the fullness of happiness above,
his body to await the solemn day of resurrection, wlion be shall be prepared to launch bis
barque upon the gladsome waters, and the sporting salmon shall yield him ahundance.
The most noticeable i'eature in the climate of Astoria is its equability. The summers are
cool, dry, and healthy; the winters stormy, rainy, and disagreeable, but ^iiild. The troops
arriving early in June, went into camp, and remained in tents until November, by which time
suitable buildings had been prepared lor their accommodation. *********
From the hospital records it is ascertained that, during the first month after our arrival, five
cases of malarial fever occurred, and two in each of the next two succeeding months. There
were relapses, caused by exposure and lying on the ground, in persons who had suU'cred from
the disease at Vancouver. No other case occurred subsequently among the troops, and the dis-
ease, when it attacked either the citizens or Indians, could be distinctly and directly traced to a
visit up the river. I did not see a single case of any idioiiathic fever. Five cases of erysipelas
occurred — one in October, two in November, and two in December, 1850, and may be accounted '
for by the prevalence of cold, rainy, and foggy weather; the men being in tents until the mid-
dle of November. The disease was mild, and yielded readily to the external application of a
strong solution of nitrate of silver and the administration of full doses of quinine — a plan of
treatment which I found liighly successful in Toluca, Mexico, where the disease arose from the
same exciting causes.
Affections of the bowels prevailed to a considerable extent during the summer and autumn of
1850, although the cases among the troops were mild and of short duration. I met with many
severe, and three i'atal, cases among citizens. The cholera which prevailed in California seemed
to extend its influence in some degree to this place. One well marked case occurred about a
mile above our post. A large proportion of the residents of Pacific City (a small village under
Cape Disappointment), were attacked with diarrhoea and dysentery; one fatal case occurred, to
which 1 was called a lew hours before death. The patient had frequent and cojiious dejections
of dark clotted blood, mingled with some fascal matter; he had been sick only six or seven
days. Several passengers died on the voyage, and others arrived at this post ill with bowel
complaints. Of those who were lauded and placed under my care, two died with the same, but
less urgent symptoms, as the fatal case at Pacific City. One family, consisting of father,
mother, and three children, were seized within a few hours of each other. Blisters to the abdo-
men, opium and mineral astringents, with the most careful diet, were the principal therapeuti-
cal means employed.
Constijiation being often complained of among troops as a reality, or oftener as a reason
for being excused Irom duty, the twelve cases reported will be found nearly equally distributed
through the sixteen months.
One-eighth of all the cases reported were catarrhs, mostly of a mild character. In December,
1850, an influenza j^revailed, aad many complained, but the symptoms not being sufficiently
urgent the cases are not reported. This influence was felt in the interior of the Territory
among the inhabitants generally; two cases among the troops were attended with active febrile
movement, intense headache, pains in the back and limbs, anorexia, and painful cough ; anti-
monials and low diet relieved the symptoms, and convalescence was rapid. Seven cases of
catarrh occurred in April, 1851, among a detachment of rifles en route for California; they had
just left their comfortable quarters at Columbia Barracks, and were exposed in tents at Astoria
during wet weather; occasional cases occurred during other months.
IVIore than one-third of all the cases were syphilitic, which being early taken in hospital,
readily yielded to the usual remedies; the frequency of this disease is explained by my ])revious
remarks concerning the Indians. Eheumatism was confined to two or three old soldiers, who,
AMONG THE TROOPS IN OREGON 'AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES. 477
after any unusual exposure or before any extraordinary detail, were certain to have an attack.
Twenty-six, or one-eighth of all reported, were cases of injuries or wounds ; two burns among
the cooks from scalding water ; fourteen contusions among artificers and working parties ; one
fracture of the finger, produced by a blow; one luxation of the shoulder joint; one subluxation
of the ankle joint ; and seven cuts inflicted with an axe in the act of chopping, or in the carpen-
ter's shop by sharp tools.
From the above analysis of the sick-report, it will appear that the troops at this post enjoyed
an almost complete immunity from disease having an endemic origin, and, leaving out venereal
diseases, an unusual degree of good health. The monthly average strength being o1{^, gave a
sick report of 12f , or one case in about every two-and-a-half days ; or, for the whole period, one
case of sickness or wound for every four-and-a-half men.
While the equableness of the temperature throughout the year, the mildness of the climate,
and the absence of all causes of endemic disease, ensure perfect liealthfulness, there are few who
would select this as an agreeable place of j^ermanent residence. The winters are cheerless; rain
falling day after day for nearly six months; a dense foggy atmosphere, with hardly an interval
of sunshine. The summers, short and dry ; atmosphere frequently foggy or smoky ; warm
mornings, succeeded about 10, a. m., by a fresh sea-breeze and cool evenings. Late in the
epring, a cold, frosty northwest wind will frequently blow suddenly, accompanied by hail,
bligliting the young leaves and killing tender plants which have struggled into a feeble exist-
ence. I found the temperature so unpleasantly cool during the evening while in camp soon after
our arrival, that I invariably had a fire kindled in front of my tent, or passed the time in our
mess-tent, where a large stove was put up; and during the whole period of my residence at
Astoria, I can confidently say, there were not ten days that I was without fire in my quarters.
During the warmest hours of the warmest days we could not complain of heat. Summer vest-
ments were never needed. If a few hours, early in the day, seduce one into assuming a lighter
material, the cool sea-breeze of the afternoon soon warns him that comfort requires woolen gar-
ments. I would not be understood, however, that there is no pleasant weatlier; on the con-
trary, there are days when one may enjoy the brightest rays of the sun, the clearest and deepest
of blue skies, the balmiest breathings of the south, and niglits when heaven seems to have un-
folded the brightest page of its mystic scroll. The aurora is frequent during the spring, and
intensely brilliant. Thunder-storms are not frequent nor severe.
Astoria afi'ords a pleasant place of resort from the hot, dusty, and malarial atmosphere of
Portland and its vicinity ; and in the future growth of the Territory, Clatsop plains will be on
these western shores what Newport and Cape May are on the Atlantic. The fashionable belle,
paled by her winter's dissipation, and the gouty and overfed man of business will flee the city,
to enjoy a few weeks of pure air and renew their vigor in the s2)ortive waves of the Pacific
ocean.
FORT DALLES.
The post at the Dalles of the Columbia, so called from the river being compressed by the en-
croaching rocky clifts into a narrow cut, through which the whole volume of water rushes, is a
few miles above the entrance of the river into the mountain ridges, jutting out from the Cas-
cade range, and two hundred miles from tlie Pacific ocean. The site selected is a half mile
from the south bank of the river, and elevated above it about one hundred feet, with hills in
the rear rising several hundred feet. A mountain stream immediately westward supplies ex-
cellent water to the garrison. The valley of this stream, and the adjacent hills, are covered
with i)ine and dwarf oak; with which exception, the whole face of the country within view is
bare of timber. Like all of middle Oregon, this is an admirable grazing country; but owing
to the long dry season, is scarcely susceptible of cultivation. Tlie annual freshet in the Colum-
bia occurs in May or June; the waters not subsiding for two or three months. The rise is
many feet ; but as the river is generally confined between precipitous basaltic clifi's, there is
478 EEPORT ON THE SIClftrESS AND MORTALITY
little inundation. A tract of low ground, one or two miles above the post, is partially over-
flowed. This is eminently a volcanic region — basalt and basaltic conglomerate abounding.
Two peaks^ perpetually snow-capped, are in full view; the one to the N.N.W. ; the other,
Mount Hood, about thirty miles to the S.W. Strong westwardly winds prevail during the dry
season, which lasts from March until November. The position may be considered perfectly
salubrious. Within the experience of the residents of the adjacent missions, fevers of every
description, or any local diseases, are entirely unknown. {From quarterly report of Assistant
Surgeon Charles H. Smith: 1850.
CANTONMENT LORING.
Cantonment Loring is situated in the low, level valley, formed principally by the confluence
of the Pat. Neuf with the Snake or Lewis' fork of tlie Columbia river. No precise estimate
has yet been made of the extent of this valley; but from the best information, it would appear
to be from forty-five to fifty or sixty miles in length, and varies in breadth from two to five,
and in some places perhaps to seven or eight miles. It has a good, though generally light and
spongy soil ; and is abundantly supplied with springs, where a number of small and beautiful
streams have their origin, as well as numerous impassable sloughs and marshes. These, to-
gether with the unsolid nature of the soil, render travelling over the valley somewhat difficult;
unless it be when they are frozen, or about the last of August or first of September, when they
are usually tolerably firm. There is but little other vegetable matter in or about these than
two or three varieties of coarse, rank grass. The Cantonment is upon the left bank of the
smaller portion or fork of Snake river, which divides four or five miles above into two princi-
pal branches ; these again unite four or five miles below, and form an island, which lies chiefly
on the west side of the Cantonment. Tliis island is moderately well timbered with cotton-
wood of considerable size, but the greater portion of it is rather covered with small under-
growth. It is quite marshy and considerably cut uj) with sloughs, which are almost invariably
a part of, or are connected with, one or the other branches of the main stream. The Canton-
ment is about fifteen miles above the confluence alluded to, and five miles east of Fort Hall ;
which, according to the only observation yet made, is in latitude 43° 1' 30" north, and longi-
tude 112° 29' 54" west; and elevation above the sea, 4,500 feet. (From quarterly report of
Assistant Surgeon W. F. Edgar: 1849.)
MEDICAL TOPOGRAPHY AND DISEASES OF FORT STEILACOOM.
By Assistant Surgeon J. M. Haden : 1853.
Steilacoom is situated in latitude 47° 10' 57" north, and longitude 122° 33' west from
Greenwich, one mile east from Puget Sound, and about three hundred feet above the level of
the sea. The Cascade range of mountains, running north and south, is east, distant about
thirty miles; and one of its snow-capped peaks, having an altitude of 14,000 feet, is directly
in view. By riding a few miles from the post, several other snow-peaks of this mountain are
visible ; and also the snow-capped peaks of the Olympian range, distant about forty miles on
the west. Along the sound, varying from one to two miles in breadth, and near the moun-
tains, are dense and lofty forests. The country immediately around is composed of beautiful
undulating prairies, intersected by nimierous small streams, which have their sources in the
fresh-water lakes witli which the prairies are interspersed. The prairies are separated from
each other, and surrounded by dense and almost impenetrable forests, while they are inter-
spersed with numerous groves of oak, which give them a most beautiful and park-like appear-
ance. The lakes are several hundred feet above the level of the sea; of perfectly fresh water,
with gravel beaches and bottoms, and vary from one to six or eight miles in circumference.
Springs of pure water are abundant, both in the prairies and woodlands. The soil in this
vicinity, particularly of the prairies, is composed of a mixture of sand and gravel, and is al-
AMONG THE TROOPS IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES. 479
most entirely unfit for agricultural purposes, except on the margins of the streams and in low-
places near the lakes. The soil of the woodlands is of a diiferent nature^ being a kind of loam ;
but so dense are the forests, that years will elapse before it is brought into requisition.
The forests are composed of fir, cedar, pine, hemlock, yew, oak, maple, ash, cottonwood,
dogwood, alder, elder, crab-apple, aspen, hazle, &c. The fir, cedar, and pine, growing on the
highlands; the oak on the prairies; and the maple, ash, cottonwood, &c., on the bottom-lands
near the streams. Blackberries, raspberries, gooseberries, dewberries, serviceberries, cranber-
ries, whortleberries, strawberries, and currants, are very abundant. A species of fern is very
abundant in every section of the country, and the uva ursi covers tlie ground on tlie margins
of all the prairies. The forests and prairies abound with animals, which afford excellent
amusement to the sportsman, and a principal article of food to the Indians. They are bears,
elk, deer, sheep, wolves, panthers, wild-cats, foxes, hares, raccoons, squirrels, skunks, moles,
wood-rats, gophers, beavers, otters, and weasels. Toads, frogs, bats, terrapins, lizards, and
snakes, are very numerous. None of the snakes, I believe, are poisonous. Tlie birds are
eagles, hawks, owls, buzzards, ravens, crows, grouse (two species), jays, pigeons, robins, larks,
woodpeckers, snow-birds, blackbirds, blue-birds, humming-birds, sparrows, night-hawks, swal-
lows, martins, wrens, kingfishers, gulls, snipes, plovers, curlews, great northern-divers, and
several species of ducks. During the latter part of autumn great numbers of swans, geese,
cranes, and ducks, make their appearance on their way to more southern latitudes. A few
spend the winter, but the greater number stop only temporarily; and are not seen again until
the opening of spring, when tliey are returning north.
The climate of this country, as regards temperature, possesses a medium between hyperbo-
*rean cold and intertrojjical heat. The seasons may be said to be divided into the rainy and dry.
From the middle of October until the first of April is the rainy season. During this time the
sky is almost constantly obscured by clouds, and rain a greater part of the time falling. Du-
ring April and May there are frequent showers, after which there are occasional showers; but
rain sufficient to wet the ground very seldom falls. To show the average temperature during
the year, and the general characteristics of climate, I have made the following extracts from
the meteorological register kept at this post during 1851 :
December was the coldest month. The mean temperature as follows: sunrise, 37.67; 9
A. M., 41.55; 3 p. M., 44.9; 9 p. m., 41.29. The maximum was 52° at 3 p. m. on the 7th, and
the minimum 22° at sunrise on the 22d.
August was the warmest month. The mean temperature as follows: sunrise, 55.80 ; 9 A. Ji.,
66.58 ; 3 p. m., 77.70 ; 9 p. m., 64.22. The maximum was 92° at 3 p. m. on the 20th, and the
minimum 46° at sunrise on the 31st.
The maximum temjierature during the year was 92° at 3 p. m. on the 18th July, and the
minimum 22° at sunrise on the 22d of December. During the year 39.42 inches of rain fell.
The maximum quantity in one month was 15.30 inches, in January; and the minimum, 0.36
incli in July. The last frost in the spring was on the 8th April, and the first killing frost of
autumn on the 11th October. Snow falls to a greater or less extent every winter, but seldom
remains on the ground over two or three days. It has fallen once during the last three years
to the depth of twelve inches, and remained on the ground four or five days. Ice seldom forms
over half an inch thick.
The prevailing winds during the rainy season are southerly; and during the dry, northerly.
Southerly winds are always indicative of rainy weather, and northerly of dry.
The country generally being high and dry, the lakes, all of pure, fresh water, no
marshes or alluvial bottoms being in the vicinity, diseases of a malarious origin are almost en-
tirely unknown. Altliuugh quite a number of cases of intermittent fever have been reported
at this post, I tliink tlieir origin could invariably be traced elsewhere ; as those allected have
either previously been accustomed to periodical attacks, or liave recently been exposed to the
480 REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
malarious atmosphere of the CoTunibia valley. Catarrhs, rheumatism, and diseases incident to
exposure to cold, combined with moisture, are quite common during the rainy season.
The following is an abstract of the reports of the sick and wounded at this post from the 1st
of October, 1849, to the iiOth of September, 1852: lutermitteut i'evcr, 29; diseases of the re-
spiratory organs, 82 ; the digestive organs, 74 ; brain and nervous system, 23 ; fibrous and
muscular tissues, 89; urinary and genital organs, 104; abscesses and ulcers, 54; wounds and
injuries, 40; all other diseases 49; total, 501.
The diseases of tlie respiratory organs liave usually been catarrhs, and liave required very
little treatment. Two cases of phtliisis pulmonalis have occurred ; botli were discharged. There
have been a few cases of pleuritis, and one deatli from chronic bronchitis, contracted while on
tlie voyage from New York. Influenza prevailed throughout the country as an epidemic in the
autumn of 1851, and twelve cases occurred at this post. Among the Indians it frequently
proved fatal, but witli the whites the cases were light and very tractable. I liave never seen a
case of pneumonia north of the Columbia river. The diseases of the digestive organs have been
mostly simple cases of constipation, and yielded readily to purgatives. Several cases of diar-
rhoea and dysentery have occurred, but none of a serious nature. Chronic rheumatism is quite
common, during the rainy season, among those much exposed. The diseases of the brain and
nervous system have been chiefly cephalalgia, from the derangement of tlie digestive organs.
Diseases of the urinary and genital organs have been very frequent. The entire Indian popu-
lation seem to be affected to a greater or less extent, and as the men are constantly among them
very few have escaped. The great majority of cases have been gonorrhosa. Cases of syphilis
have been comparatively rare, and have yielded very readily to treatment. Secondary syphilis
has appeared in two individuals ; one is now under treatment. Of tlie wounds and injuries two
were fractures — one of the ribs and the other of the pelvis. One lacerated wound of the hand,
caused by the premature discharge of a gun while firing a salute, rendered amj)utation of the
fore-arm necessary. Other injuries have generally been contusions and incised wounds, occurring
among the men employed in procuring wood and building houses.
There are very few white settlers in this vicinity, and, so far, there have been very few cases
of sickness among them, except such as are incident to exj^osure during the rainy season, as
catarrh, rheumatism, &c. But with the Indians the case has been far different. They seem
to be passing away so rapidly before civilization, that but very few years will elapse before they
are entirely extinct. Wherever the whites settle, they disappear as if there was something in
civilization entirely incompatible with their existence. They say themselves, that in a few
more "colds" they will all have disappeared. They seem to possess very little stamina, and
when disease once takes hold of them they very soon succumb. During the summer months
they are comparatively healthy, but during the winter great numbers die of dysentery and pul-
monary diseases. When severely attacked at this season there is very little probability of their
recovering, as they are very much exposed to the inclemency of the weather, and their diet is
anything but proper, being princi2)ally dried fish and berries. Dr. Tolmie, of the Hudson
Bay Company, informs me that dysentery proved very fatal in this vicinity in the autumn of
1844, and that in the winter of 1847-'48 measles prevailed throughout Oregon, and had many
victims on Fuget Sound. Since that time dysentery has been of annual occurrence during the
autumn and winter months. Influenza prevailed as an epidemic in i}ie autumn of 1851, and
proved very fatal among some of the tribes. Syphilis and gonorrhoea prevail to a great extent
among all the tribes known to the whites. All the tribes on the sound, prostitute their women
without hesitation, for gain, and healthy children among them are very rare. The scrofulous dia-
thesis is very common, and great numbers die of phthisis pulmonalis. I have known almost entire
families to die of that disease within the last three years. One fruitful cause of disease among them,
I think, is their manner of dressing. Very frequently an Indian may be seen one day dressed
with coat, pants, two or three shirts, cap, and blanket, and, as they are all inveterate gamblers,
the same Indian may be seen the next day with no other covering than a thin shirt. They do
AMONG THE TROOPS IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES.
481
not seem to consider boots or shoes as essential articles of clothing. They are also exceedingly-
uncleanly about their camp.s. In visiting tliem the olfactory nerves are assailed with the most
offensive exhalations, and putrescent salmon and every sort of filthy matter is seen immediately
around them.
In the treatment of disease they use a few indigenous medicinal plants, but their chief reliance
is in the powers of their "medicine men," whom they believe have both the power to cause and
cure disease. Almost all deaths are ascribed to the supernatural agency of some one or other of
their "medicine men," who are frequently assassinated by the friends of the deceased. The
"medicine men" seem to have full confidence in their "medicine," and they are generally re-
garded with great fear by the members of their tribe. An old practitioner in this vicinity boasts
that he lias had many enemies, but that his "medicine" has swept them all away.
DISEASES.
TABLE EXHIBITING THE RATIO OF SICKNESS AND MORTALITY.
Quarters.
Mean strength. I Number treated. Deaths.
BATIO PER 1,000 OP MEAN STRENGTH.
Treated.
First quarter
Second quarter. -
TTiird quarter
Fourth quarter..
Annual ratio
1,437
1,54«
2,070
2,271
1,831
642
839
1,404
1,368
4,253
3
3
14
9
29
466
536
678
602
2,322
2
2
6.7
4
15.8
The foregoing data show that the annual proportion of cases of disease to the number of offi-
cers and men in this region was 2.32 to 1, and that the ratio of deaths to men was 1 to 63.14,
or 1.5 per cent. The average deaths to cases treated was 1 to 146.65, or 0.68 per cent.
FEVERS.
Quarters.
nRST.
SECOND.
•nuKD.
1
FOrRTH.
YEAK.
C
£
1
1"
o
a.
s
2 S
1,437
1,
546
2,
070
2, 271
1,831
V 2
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases. Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
■B'o
Febris continua communis _
Febris inteimittens quotidiana..
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens quartana. ..
1
25
30
5
2
2
38
30
11
4
i:;7
122
5
7
6
1
2
4
120
91
12
7
11
210 1
273 1
22
27
6 2
Oin 11
1 in 210
Oin 273
Oin 22
Oin 27
lin 3
in
6
114
149
12
14 7
Febris typlius
3 .'?
Febris t yphtts icturodes
Total
63
81
271
3
234
549
3
lin 183
300
S. 96 61
482
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY, ETC.
The diseases of tlic organs connected with the digestive and respiratory systems are given in
the following tables consdlidated from the general abstract. No special remarks respecting
particular diseases are I'ound on the original reports of sufficient interest to note in this report.
DISEASES OF THE ORGANS CONNECTED WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.
Quarters
Strength
Diseases.
Cliolera Asiaticii-
Diarrhcea
Dysentcria acuta
Dysenteria chroniai
Enteritis
Hepatitis acuta
Hepatitis chronica
Obstipatio
All other diseases of tliis
system
Total
FIRST. SECOND.
1,437
Cases. Deaths.
37
12
21
21
91
1.54G
Cases. Deaths.
69
20
1
31
33
154
2,070
Cases. Deaths.
197
73
80
25
375
2,271 I 1,831
Cases. Deaths. Cases. Deaths.
15C
44
5
1
45
55
306
459
149
5
2
177
134
926
"3
in
1 in 459
1 in 149
2 in 5
in
in 2
in
in 177
in 134
1 in 231
= a
250
81.3
2.7
1
96.6
73
505
DISEASES OF THE RESPIEATOET SYSl^EM.
O
<n
•s
s
■fi
o
Q.
O
£
1
Strength
1,437
1,546
2,070
2,271
1,831
II
Diseases.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
Cases.
Deaths.
•§"s
S.
Bronchitis acuta et chrunicii..
Catarrhus
14
70
12
2
1
1
2
73
1
2
4
1
5
84
4
5
4
2
10
101
2
5
2
2
1
31
338
6
23
8
8
1
2
3
1 in 31
Oin 338
1 in 3
Oin 23
1 in 3
in 8
17
184
Phthisis pulmonalis. -......-
3 2
a. i
Pleuritis -
12.6
4.3
4 3
Pneumonia
All other diseases of tliis
Total
98
2
82
1
102
2
122
1
414
6
lin 82
226
Khcumatismus .---.......-•
39
62
52
69
222
in 222
121
ABSTRACTS
PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
THE TROOPS IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES;
CONSOLIDATED ABSTRACTS
DISEASES Xyj) DEATHS
THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES.
484
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY AMONG THE
ABSTRACT OF THE I'RINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG
Years
FIBST QUARTER.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENOTU.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
844.
425.
110.
381.
277. 1,437.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
1 1
Died. Cases.' Died.
' 1
Oases.
Died.
Cases.' Died. Cases.' Died
'Cases
Died
1 Tota
cases
' Tiiliil
(lied.
Febris conliiiua coinnuinis .
1
i
1
25
30
5
2
1
1
4
3
1
4
14
11
Fpvcrs
Febris intermittens tertiana
Febris intermittens qu.-irtana
6
3
3
3
i;!;";;;!!"""
1
,
1 •'
Er\'sipelas
Emplive fevers ■
Scarlatina
1
7 i
9 '
11
1
5
4
9
10
37
12
Diseases of the organs
1
]
1
. . 1
connected with ih'.- di-'
1
gestive system.
Hepatitis chronica
1
i i
1
Obstipatio i
10
.... ^
2
s
3
9
1
22
1
S
3
5
10
21
21
14
70
All otlier diseases
2
SO
Bronchitis, acuta ct chronica
1
18
1
Diseases of the respira- ,
Pleuritis
7
2
3
12
lory system.
Pneumonia
1
4
1
2
9
2
1
3
1
2
1
1
Epilepsia . . |
i
1
nervous system.
•
24 1
23
3
2
53
5
IS
6
19
Diseases of the urinary
find genital orsans.
Diseases of the serous (
and exhalcnt vessels, t
Diseases of the fibrous fit J
muscular stnicturL-s. |
Abscesses and ulcers
1 Syphilis priuiiliva
4 1
10
2
5
1
2
'1
2 !
10 1
S
1
Ascites 1
1
1
1
1
2
2
5
! 1
. Pernio
3
8
9
4 ; 6
■la
39
Fistula
1
' Phlegmon et abscessus
1 Ulcus
U
2
1
10
7
2
3 15
1
13
3
1
52
16
4
I
30
1
1
Ambustio
•
1
1
8
.1
10
1
9
Fractura p
i "* ■
1
Suh-luxatio ;
3
10
2
g
9
5
1
1
1
14 1
^' 1
12 t
4
1 L . .
....
3
I
1
Vulnus laeeratum
2
a
i Debilitas
2
1
1
" 1
5
Ha^morrhols
1
■J
2
.......
Miscellaneous V
Morbi cutis
; 1
2
2
3
13
3
1
43
Scorbutus
1. ..
6 i
4
14
Total
"
153
1
145
^Q
148
2
147
642
3
1
TROOPS IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES.
THE TROOPS AT POSTS IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES.
485
1
SECOND QUARTER.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Years
1849.
1850.
1851. 1852. 1853. 185*
1 STRENGTH.
1
Mean strenoth
241.
469.
139. 120. 287. 290. 1,546.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases. Died. Caiies. Died. Cases. Died. Cases Died. Cases. Died. Cases. Died Total Total
' j 1 1 -cases, died.
[■ , Fcbris continua communis .
1
1
29
1 3
2
38
30
Febris inter, quotidiana ....
Febris intermittens tertiana.
1
3
11
5 !
5
'J'cven*
1
Fcbris remittens
10
1
11
Febris tvphus
Eruptive fevers ^
r Er>*sipelas
Rubeola
Scarlatina
1
r Cholera Asialica
10
3
28
5 1
3
1
2
6
10
20
1
69
20
Dvsenteria chronica
1
I
Diseases of the organs
Enteritis
coimected with the di-
Hepatitis acuta
1
"■■
1
gestive system.
Hepatitis chronica
Obstipatio
14
18
8
3
1
26
4
1
3
2
2
7
1
10
31
33
2
73
3
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
Catarrhus
16
1
9
2
10
1
Diseases of the respira-.
1 Pleuritis
1
1
2
4
15
3
6
tory system.
1
1
Diseases of the hrain and.
nervous system.
1 All other diseases
1
3
3
4
.1
Cephalalgia
Delirium tremens
3
3
4
2
1
1
2
j
1
1
All other diseases
1
5
1
1
.;;:;'"::::
a
Gonorrhoea
30
2
5
15
16:
\ T6
4
13
9
77 '
Strictura urethra
2
18
18
27
3
1
3
5
2
3
1
... .
4
1
and genital orimns. i
Syphilis consecutiva
, All other diseases
"
:::::: :::::l":""
1
Diseases oftbe serous and j
exhalent vessels. • '
Diseases of the fibrous &
2|......,_1
3
All other diseases
2
1
2
1
1
Podagra
muscular structures.
5
20
9
1
4
. 3
4
i"";;"
13
62
1
70
16
Fistula
Abscesses and ulcers....
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
15
1
1
16
9
2
5
21
3
' i--
1
1
3 1
' Amputntio
"i 1
....:::.
2
10
.. ......
14
14
1 :;
1
,
Luxatto
1
_ __ 1
1
>
Wounds and injuries
Punitio
{
. i -1
I Sub-luxatio
I
3 ' 3
1 '
' 10
lO
8
I
1
: 6
10 i
2 ;
1
2
1
1
13
5
Vulnus punctuni
1
1
)
1
1
I
1
I 1 1 1
3
12
4
4
4
11
6
44
■:
1 1
H::-morrhois
Hernia
1
1
1
3 1
MisceUaneous -
Mo rbi cutis
3
1 :
1 1 '
a '
1
i ' •
o 1
Scorbutus
All other dii^eases
1
i Total
2 i 1
2 8
1
1 1
2
5
10
17
114 OR?)
2 I '"
59
1 l»l
1
194
839
3
1
486
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY AMONG THE
ABSIllACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS OCCURRING AMONG
THIRD QUARTER.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENOTB.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
Mean strength
754.
421.
79.
191.
292.
333.
2,070.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total
cases.
Total
died.
Febris continue communis..
Febris inter, quotidinna.,,.
Febris intermittens lerliana.
Febris intermittens quartana
1
26
25
4
2
5
1
5
5
2
83
39
1
3
4
127
isa
5
7
6
1
12
30
1
I
23
Fevers
2
2
1
. .
Eruptive fevers ■
1
1
r
80
18
1
1
45
6
4
24
36
9
32
16
197
73
1
1
1
Diseases of the organs
connected with the di-
1
gestive system.
25
4
1
16
31
5
3
1
1
1
S
3
1
14
11
6
3
2
3
3
3
1
80
25
5
84
4
5
4
C
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
21
18
23
1
Diseases of the rcspira-
Pleuritis . ...
1
3
2
2
,
Cephalalgia
5
3
3
1
1
1
8
2
1
2
22
3
8
3
2
65
4
34
7
23
3
2
3
1
1
32
1
16
nervous system.
Neuralgia
1
1
13
1
r
1
5
3
4
5
5
4
4
7
Diseases of the uiinary
3
1
2
2
4
6
and genital organs.
Syphilis consccutiva
9
3
3
Diseases of the serous j
and eshalent vessels. (
: '
Diseases of the fihroug &
Poda-rra
muscular structures.
16
1
33
4
2
15
3
3
9
1
6
52
1
84
27
4
2
76
7
r
Abscesses and ulcf -rs
Fistula
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
12
10
2
1
3
1
18
11
17
1
1
4
2
1
18
14
21
3
5
14
2
1
I
Wounds and injuries
Puiiitio
9
1
19
7
8
8
2
11
1 A
20
V'ulnus ilici?:)!)!!
1
2
48 i
4
S
1
R
12
11
4
12
Villnus punctuni
4
Vulnua sclopeticum
Del)Uitas
1
1
2
3
1
1
1
3
7
1
2
«
1
18 1
Hffraorrhois
4
6
Hernia
2
2
Morbi cutis
2
3
9
17
3
7
3
1
6
8
20
9
61
1
3
Scorbutus
All other diseases
4
2
1
7
12
22
4
Total
357
12
321
2
51
90
248
.^17
1,404
14
TROOPS IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES,
THE TOOOPS AT POSTS IN OKEGON AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES.
487
YEARa
FOURTH QUARTER,
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
STRENaTH.
CLASSES OF DIS-
EASES.
MkAN STRENGTn
546.
415.
240.
426.
300.
344.
2,271.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Oases
Died.
Ciises
Died. Cases
. Died
Cases
Died
Cases
Died
Cases
•Died. Jr. 1:^
■ Febris continua communis.
Febris inter, quotidiana ...
Febris intermittens lertiana
Febris intermittens quartans
1 ^
39
5
1
19
31
2
3
1 4
]3
7
3
2
6
8
11
16
6
2
32
24
1
120
91
12
7
1
Erysipelas
5
5
Eruptive fevers ■
i Rubeola
1
.:::::i.;;;;;.;.;;
Cholera Asiatica
44
8
4
25
1
la
■ 3
37
16
22
12
156
44
5
Diseases of the organs
Dysenteria acuta
Dysenteria chronica
19
gestive system.
1
1
15
9
1
91
14
18
1
24
1
1
I
9
2
37
11
5
6
11
4
7
45
55
10
101
2
5
2
2
20
5
6
I
4
63
2
51
6
22
7
Bronchitis, acuta et chronica
8
1
1
Diseases of the respira-
tory system.
2
2
1
1
1
I
L
1
1
,'
1
2
' Ceplialatgia
10
I
1
1
2
4
1
2
2
1
1
Diseases of the brain and
Epilepsia
Neuralgia
3
1
1
1
4
1
1
a
21
2
21
9
9
QI
16
Diseases of the urinary
Syphilis primitiva
Syphilis consecutiva
All other diseases
1
17
2
6
1
1
2
3
9
1
and genital organs.
1
2
3
2
All other diseases
1
1
2
Diseases of the fibrous &
:::;:::;::.:
muscular structures.
19
2
23
9
2
10
6
10
17
7
69
2
98
23
15
r
Abscesses and ulcers . . . . ^
Phlegmon et abscessus
Ulcus
20
5
6
9
3
11
3
5
...
1
19
2
16
1
2
1
Amputatio
Contusio
15
22
5
1 1
9
16
12
79
1
3
1
3
Wounds and i tijurics
2
9
2
2
11
1
2
1
4
2
1
2
1
6
3
3
1
.,,,.
15
*
8
9
1
3
3
8
4
35
16
1
::::;■ 5 i
I
3
14
19
1
1
9
2
1
9
1
3
1
2
2
6
15
2
3
2
4
5
]
10
1
2
1
5
9
12
6
80
1
Morbi oculi
3
2
3
,
All other disciscs
Total
5
8
20
17
15
311
4
■T-iK 1
118
1
234
1
226 1 2
223
1,368
9
" 1
488
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS ANH MORTALITY
COXSOLIDATED ARSllJACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND
Years .
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DISEASES
10,116.
9,748.
10,000.
9,863.
8,570.
j SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
1
21
2
5
2
43
in
131
4,468
3,933
13
3
2
69
3,747
2,445
29
530
11
S5
34
5
4
1
2
1
23
2
12
1
167
3,055
2,869
111
1.176
16
■15
61
25
9
2
2
2
6
46
11
10
1
310
4,843
4,427
157
2,509
47
134
2,250
1,836
100
431
8
13
22
34
14
12
11
Febris intennitten^ quartana
944
31
63
55
16
14
7
28
3
29 ! 6
r
I
Erj'sipelas
50
31
2
1
Eruptive fevurs
1 1
4 1
13 1
r
3
1
1
Cholera Asiatica
111
290
601
2,947
1,779
Kl
192
17
23
7
12
5
2
2
1
2
1
1
21U
415
1,062
3,474
2,834
391
152
1
1
44
38
55
285
400
988
3
1
OR
'63
371 '
185
384
607
1,627
612
21
149
14
76
4
10
19
15
30
1
6
3
1
......
9
1
.1.
616
2,991
907
160
9
3
1?^
2,000 19
409
98
72
100 '
11
54 1
3
19
15 3
37
10
Diseases of the organs con
nccted with the digcs--
139
8
28
34
35
14
82
19
226
10
101
113
2
27
23
47
33
22
28
251
24
1
1
63
a
17
15
48
3
live system.
Icterus
7
9
20
246
17
75
2
4
6
10
221
13
83
8
1,348
1
1
2
8
184
18
77
9
117
2,301
23
7
20
167
79
1
1
1
1
19
3
5
TonsilUtis
119 7
1
197
3,263
27
9
33
202
113
3
1
3
28
1
10
1
Diseases of the respirator)'
2,268
28
18
41
222
132
1
30
7
2,778 ! 3
99 3
^ i
64 :<R
3,795 1 3
15
98 1 1
31 2fi
Pleuritis
210
139
1
4
12
237
132
4
11
3
1
3
1
1
Diseases of the circulatory
1 Carditis
\i
3
S
4
550
2
3
2
7
10
568
1
7
5
9
5
3
13
10
11
440
2
4
7
8
•
8
711
1
Cephalalgia ^
49:-'
Chorea
4
161
97
5
2
3
I.W
112
1
Diseases of the hrain and
nervous system.
Delirium tremens
3
124 7
85 2
156
83
U
1
130
40
8
1
28
29 1
17
8
1
11
5
1
1
IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES.
DEATHS OCCUKKING IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES.
489
1845. !
1846.
1849.
1850. i
1851.
1852.
1853
1854
AGGKEOATE
;
8,590.
9,083.
9,148.
8,970.
9,242.
9,303.
9,994.
8,095.
130,622.
Cases.
Died. '
Cases. Died.
1
Cases.
1
Died.
1
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total cases.
Total
died.
1 1 '
\
1 1
37
.......
1
169 6
216
4
119
2
151 2
412 1
85
I
130
2,207
23
1,9»2
2.917 3
897
1.910
1,993 1 2
2,941
4,643
1
3,001
1
36)956
as
1,572
1,690
949
1
1,775
2
2,385
2,069
3,151
2,815
31,916
5
61
64
159
161
99
124
69
68
1
1,282
2
298
5
522 12
538
23
732 1
7
1,014 5
603 , 9
657
5 i
345
6
10.399
210
2
1
29 3
117
17
57
12
68
13
90 1 U
46
16
43
11
557
118
135
61
52
1
5
65
3
5
1
70
1
3 '
32
34
30
4
2
340
19
83
723
545
209
33
13 1
14
12
31
18
1
2
4
17
5
3
203
1
31
1
1
43
23
2
5 3
6 1
2
6 2
5
4
4
9
67
85
88
8
IS
8
9
12
14
1
o
2
616
88
307
4
283
135
60
5
382 91
150 1
130 26
146
186
124
94 j
31
78
18
*
i,eae
2,025
596
160
160 1
30
378
1 ,
488 !
409
281
I
297
348
374
32!
4,757
3
835
976
830
738
788-
773
850
918
10,582
a
2,383
2
4.568 25
7.065
151
4.(S8
31
3,331
24
3,365 21
3,976
17
2,605
12
43,851
385
689
6
1,713 5
677
20
727
15
685
13
913 18
836
8
709
4
15,081
168
34
70 33
163
9
-3
18
131
23
59 14
80
23
67
7
1,739
376
197
IK
166
178
1
114
IK
144
67
1,841
1
24
2
26 6
37
1
31
8
39
6
11
16
21
2
230
38
71
2
43
64
1
47
59
1
62
61
3
53
2
905
31
3
3 1
5
3
4
7
3
1
8
55
3
16
10
40
1
18
1
29
3
21
A
14
1
263
7
18
8
3
39
1
11
2
7
6
8
7
210
14
13
39
2
35
21
22
27
1
30
10
369
4
45
17
1
49
36
35
32
32
11
344
1
7
7 3
11
1
12
10
1
4 3
8
1
15
3
193
34
16
5
5
1
6
6
6
7
145
1
234
256
325
238
1
265
183
232
187
3,048
4
14
12
44
37
27
1
23
34
18
291
2
S3
101 i 1
139
3
107
I
163
2
167
157
2
274
1,614
21
15
1
31 1 2
50
30
3
14
1
32
35
1
32
4
246
14
10
3,464
.... .
1
158
2,296
51
2.M3
19
1,746
69
3.089
149
3.364
1
24
1,857
2,142
30,969
1,525
9
18
11 2
18
18
1
14
16
25
•23
2
265
11
6
1
9 1
10
12
11
17
2
25
6
184
6
31
8
38 9
40
18
30
14
35
12
23
20
39
21
27
14
442
257
167
130
166
2
194
2
176
4
198
1
185
1
109
3,363
21
75
7
78 [ 11
170
1
6
10
1
133
1
3
14
111
2
5
9
100
1
4
12
1
92
13
1
62
6
1,416
8
55
127
4
1
1
1 1
18
9
2
1
1
22
2
1
1
2
*' 1
5
13
2
16
7
6
1
5
11
1
2
16
o
6
20
39
142
12
6
4
1
4
1
14
6
3
3
10
7
9
6
3
2
8
5
93
53
777
822
489
484
338
i
387
349
306
6.699
1 1
2
1
6
1
2
101
11
•2
20
1,699
4
2
80
1
119
6
1
137
13
4
140
154
7
6
137
' 10
110
5
98
48
40 1
50
69
1
76
1
95
71
1
29
^4
13
4
4
4 3
2
1
■ ••
6
1
5
1
1
7
30
9
10
4
12
9
1 1
9
I 11
14
20
1
182
6
2
4
7
1
9
1 ■
3
10
i
6
1
47
!
S. 96-
-62
490
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
CONSOLIDATED ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
1840.
1841.
1842.
1843.
1844.
CLASSES OF DISEASES
10,116.
9,748.
10,000.
9,863.
8,570.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
iDied.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
1
54
18
1
2
1
1
7
40
12
1
1
1
17
421
25
8
89
3
1
1
4
.•i3
9
2
1
8
1
4
376
17
7
63
1
1
1
1
1
1
45
14
1
49
16
1
3
3
5
5
434
15
3
1
nervovis system, '
Paralysis
Tetanus
Calculu-s .
1
3
8
3
384
19
10
73
2
3
2
6
462
30
8
59
o
14
218
69
4
25
18
......
Diabetes
Discasf!s of the urinary St
genital organs, and ve-
Nephritis
7 1 1
nereal afleclions.
Orchitis
73
Sarcocele
2
2
3
2
13
121
61
6
39
30
1
3
3
14
137
48
4
29
17
1
4
17
160
13
313
40
19
6
6
1
Syphilis priniitiva
30 '
■
Ulcus penis non syphiliticum
Anasarca
16
11
1
1
1
Diseases of the serous and
Ilydrarlhrus .,
exiialent vessels.
Hydrocele
2
3
1
681
352
21
83
769
448
05
14
1,229
59
55
98
4
41
4
2
2
1
3
1
2
2
5
700
446
16
98
938
531
137
3
1,167
6»
81
31
7
32
387
752
1
1
5
801
314
13
32
802
549
97
7
1,313
55
67
52
3
12
350
603
38
88
26 .
3
1
1
4
3
3
1
3
3
4
8
691
403
13
91
645
573
91
6
1,146
78
63
28
5
34
439
586
1
2
1
1
1
1
Diseases of the fibrous and j
Podagra
Rheurnatismus aciitus
11
589
383
7
muscular stnictures.
r
!
Kheuinatisnius t-lironicus
Fistula
Paronychia
Abscesses and ulcers -l
1
2
1
1
806
326
84
5
1,176
3-1
48
28
2
4
412
464
106
85
34
2
1
Ulcus
r
Contusio
Fractura
Wounds and injiirirs
i Punitio
1 Sub-luxalio
813
1
Vulnus punctiim
97
108
6
14
80
70
11
1
8
153
7
Diseases of llie eye ■
' Ilcmcralopia ct nyctalopia.
29
581
11
41
859
8
1
11
591
3
36
600
3
13
349
1
Opthalmia
Anchylosis
1
1
21
376
125
5
7
1
9
2
26
270
182
12
1
3
4
67
91
385
3
2
58
107
492
3
Ail oilier diseases ■
153
125
9
4
1
7
1
Ebrietas
Epistaxis
Exostosis
1
IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES.
OCCURRING IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES— Continued.
491
1845. 1846.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852
1853.
1854
•
AGOREOATE
STRENGTH.
8,590. 1 9,083.
9,148.
8,970.
9,242.
9,203
9,994.
8,095.
120,632.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Toul cases. To"j'
2
1
4 i 1
5
3
3
3
9
S
1
5
5
1
3
1
49
31
61 1 1 48 '
76
81
(&
1
100
105 !
115
889
3
7 7 1
26
2
12
1
20
2
21
19 2
6
187 11
] 1 1 ..
3
S
5
1
1
10
3
1
2
4
5
2
17 7
5
5
3
3
15.
1
33
4
f
8
1
72 3
4 1
9 7
8
5
3
5
3
7
4
2,
39
6 :
9
85
421 339
737
438
447
370
356
363
5,547
32 16 ,
32
^
8
21 . 1
17
I
371 2
9 4
8
1
9
1
9
6
10 '
9
104 5
83 54
103
89
J03
74
74
78
1.017 1
5
•J
16
11
25
18
37
16 '
23 ,
17
234
261
184
572
255
257
176
117
IK
3,883
2
69
60
2
153
1
111
1
96
3
1-10 1
14« 1
138
1,163 11
16
9
17
23
S
17
6
7
166
10 2
6
1
37
2
20
3
11
15 '
14
3
14
1
237 18
5
2
2
2
14
2
10
5
3
8 4
5
5
4
3
115
30
1
5
1
2
3
3
1
5
31
1
7
4
1
3
1
19
1
1
6
7
3
4
6
1
3
1
3
3
3
5
1
1
29
70
31
5
5
738
547
910
6
638
1
648
1
588
1
711 '
560
1
8,7M 12
200
328
1
480
325
3
^
3
232
270
1
392
1
4,365 14
10
15
14
8
17
20
S2
22
197
304
14.803
929
918
1
1,053
1
1,463 1
1,595
1,444
1
1,767
3
1,471
12
379
720
574
509 2
474
477
501
1
481
6,541 5
101
116
76
95 '
103
IS.)
99
2
86
1
1,315 4
4
9
3
12
2
9
9
1
7
2
35
3
14
1
124 1 14
1,291
1,129
1,143
1
1,191
1
1,414
1,362
2
1,566
1
1,549
18,876
10
51
2
41
1
90
5
65
2
74
4
66 2
74
69
1
eas
21
60
36
81
49
40
43
36
39
700
31
29
45
44
51
63
73
59
631
1
1
• •■■■•'
7
2
2
5
9
1
6
1
13
65
3
10
28
• ■ • -i ■
17
15
18
7
6
4
318
490
468
296
371 ......
391
1
331
473
484
4,881
1
419 1
391
2
396
1
514 ' 4
455
1
41S ; 1
445
402
6.659
14
100 1
101
146
177 1
239
1
219 1
245 1
234
1
1.603 6
70 82
1
83
79 , 5
127
6
99 1
98 ; 1
93
4
1,081 20
18 a 443
64
75
4
67 13
50
5
53
11
47
S
90
26
1,233 161
1 9
6
2
SI
17
5
5
3
5
- i
2 !
37
47
13
IS
17
33
32
334
321
320
317
318
331
383
425
293
5,678 1
2
30
2
8
12
9
12
1
1
4
4
1
13
3
114 3
8
1
5
4
2
15
7 6
a
7
13
7
6
16
243
107
200
238
5
132
1
199
176
3
159
2
144
3
2,352 1 16
577
4 311
4
218
5
244
4 .
233
2
284
6
323
1
331
3
3,830
38
S3
1
3
2
3
1
1
1
492
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
CONSOLIDATED ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL DISEASES AND DEATHS
Years
1840.
1841.
1842.
184
3.
R.
1844.
CLAS3ES OF DISEASES.
10,116.
9,748.
10,000.
9,63
8,570.
SPECIFIC DISEASES.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases. 1 Died.
f
168
87
1
160
181
5
1
164
165
1
3
182
66
3
120
90
Odontalgia
39
68
150
10
162
59
86
7
1
1
1
208
'«
21
3
1
95
135
5
1
44
27
6
1
All oUier diseases ■
63
19
1
104
19
3
56
12
1
32
8
1
16
9
2
27
1
2
Scrofula .
10
20
9
2,873
41
12
82
16
2,996
14
98
5
2,369
15
4
1,624
1
9
1,330
3
28,167
254
37,499
387
32,426
303
26,820
160
20,982
96
The form of " report of sick" in use in 1839 was for less njinute in its details, and differed
so essentially from those subsequently adopted, tliat it was not practicable to represent the
statistics for that year in this abstract.
The statistics for 1847 and 1848 (war with Mexico) are also excluded, it having been found
impossible to collate correct statistics for those years.
The deaths reported from " febris congestiva" are to be regarded as congestive terminations
of intermittent fever, under which head the cases were originally registered. The term con-
gestive fever is retained in preference to pernicious intermittent fever, because it is universally
employed by the medical officers in that sense, as it is also throughout the southern and south-
western States.
Cases of "paronychia," subsequent to 1843, have been so generally reported under
" phlegmon et abscessus," that it was determined to include all under that head.
IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES.
OCCURRING IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES— Continued.
493
1845.
1846.
1849.
1850.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
AOOREaATB
STRENGTH.
8,590.
9,083.
9,148.
8,970.
9,242.
9,203.
9,994.
8,095.
120,622.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Cases.
Died.
Total cases.
Total
died.
138
121
1
140
130
1
183
102
1
112
135
♦
129
113
3
171
198
161
238
3
123
178
1
1
1,951
1,804
19
3
2,166
1,001
812
52
6
2,132
175
19
345
200
146
22,941
2
1
271
59
12
1
289
77
8
3
152
79
120
2
2
135
19
1
21
1
2
1
194
91
31
2
171
94
45
9
211
57
66
2
3
364
10
1
51
1
248
100
53
1
221
100
58
2
1
3
2
13
5
1
17
1
150
11
3
21
2
283
18
3
35
9
2
376
26
2
32
8
1
1
12
1
2
345
13
4
65
2
5
1
195
6
1
25
1
2
2
40
3
19
3
6
1,856
1
4
1,621
15
10
1,507
19
14
1,168
13
19
1,303
8
12
1,279
15
19
1,612
9
19
1,403
5
258
136
2a,496
78
26,689
246
28,013
734
24,079
294
25,276
299
25,765
^9
29,575
279
24,998
352,685 3,617
This abstract shows that the average annual proportion of cases of disease to the numerical
strength of the army is 2.92 to 1 ; that the corresponding ratio of deaths is 1 in 33.35, or 2.99
per cent. ; and that the proportion of deaths to cases is 1 in 9T, or 1.02 per cent.
Exclusive of cholera, the deaths were 1 in 38.64, or 2.58 per cent.
It is probable that even this last, is greater than the actual annual ratio of mortality, as the
excess of deaths in 1849 is in part attributable to diseases contracted during the war.
494
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
Consolidated table exJiibiting the amount and annuai ratio of sickness andmortcdllij for each region.
Regions.
Mean strength. Number treated.
RATIO PER 1,000 op MEAN
STRENGTU.
Treated.
Died.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
Coast of New England
Harbor of New York
West Point
North Interior, East
The Great Lakes
North Interior, West
Middle .\tlantic
Middle Interior, East
Newport Barraeks, Kentucky.
Jefferson Barracks and St. Louis Arsenal
Middle Interior, West
South Atlantic
South Interior, East
South Interior, West
Atlantic Coast of Florida
Gulf Coast of Florida
Texas, Southern Frontier
Texas, Western Frontier
New Mexico
California, Southern
California, Northern
Oregon and Washiutrtou
963
,387
,901
553
,346
2;iO
,299
456
,454
,580
319
,800
,919
,013
835
,299
.450
,324
,873
07
,599
831
6,935
31,397
31.633
6, 426
22,784
16,707
14.262
6,373
3,670
19,587
20,804
C. 870
17,426
35,312
2, 408
10,262
15,693
23,051
11,738
3. 200
5.420
4,253
36
183
28
39
140
77
117
30
59
263
107
58
234
228
21
70
235
174
139
30
70
29
1,749
<).
3, 345
19.5
4, 584
4.0
1,808
10.9
2,202
1.3. 5
2.310
10.6
2,264
18.5
2,594
14.6
2,524
40.5
3,510
47.0
3,911
20.0
2, 453
20.7
2,944
39.5
3, .531
22.7
2,883
25.0
4. 463
30.4
3, 526
52.8
3, 645
27.5
1,999
23.6
1,874
17.5
3,389
43.7
2,322
15.8
Consolidated table exhibiting the amount and annual ratio of sickness and mortality in each region,
from fevers.
No.
Regions.
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
Coast of New England
Harbor of New York.
West Point
North Interior, East
The Great Lakes
North Interior, West
Middle Atlantic
Middle Interior, East
Newport Barraeks, Kentucky
Jefferson Rirracks and St. Louis Arsenal
Middle Interior, West
South Atlantic
South Interior, East
South Interior, West.
Atlantic Coast of Florida
Gulf Coast of Florida
Texas, Southern Frontier
Texas, Western Frontier
New Mexico
California, Southern
California, Northern
Oregon and Washington
Mean strength.
Number treated
3,963
454
9,387
2, 1.34
6,901
985
3,553
384
10.. 34 6
3,458
7,230
2,926
6,299
2,163
2,456
599
1,454
944
6, 580
5,138
5,319
5,783
2.800
825
5,910
3,746
10,013
14,121
835
,551
2,299
5, 095
4,450
5,076
fi, 324
8,652
5. 873
928
1,707
326
1,599
2,167
1,831
549
Deaths.
2
25
3
3
22
7
41
7
9
51
12
15
85
36
12
28
80
9
22
2
19
3
Proportion of ' Ratio of cases
deattis to cases. per ] ,000 of
mean st'gth.
1 in 227
1 in 85
1 in 328
1 in 128
1 in 157
1 in 418
1 in 53
1 in 85
1 in 105
1 in 100
1 in 482
1 in 75
1 in 44
1 in 392
I in 46
1 in 182
1 in 63
1 in 961
1 in 42
I in 163
1 in 14
1 in 183
114
227
142
108
334
407
343
243
649
920
1087
294
633
1412
659
2216
1141
1368
158
190
1355
300
IN THE ARMT OF THE UNITED STATES.
495
Consolidated table exldhiling the amount and annual ratio of sickness and mortality in each region,
from diseases of the organs connected ivith the digestive system.
No.
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
Regions.
Coast of New England
Harbor of New York -
Woi-t Point
North Interior, East
Tlie Great Lakes
North Interior, West
Middle Atlantic -
Middle Interior, East
Newport Barracks, Kentucky
Jeft'er.son Barracks and St. Louis Arsenal.
Middle Interior, West
South Atlantic --
South Interior, East
South Interior, West
Atlantic Coast of Florida
Gulf Coast of Florida
Te.xas, Southern Frontier
Texas, Western Frontier
New Mexico -
California, Southern
California, Northern
Oregon and Washington..
Proportion of
Ratio ofcases
Moan strength.
Number treated.
Deaths.
deattis to cases.
per 1,000 of
mean ^^l"gth.
3, 963
1,549
9
1 in 172
390
9,, 38 7
8,722
46
1 in 190
929
6,901
6.207
5
1 in 1241
899
3, 5.53
1,470
3
1 in 490
413
10,346
4,497
26
1 in 173
434
7,230
3,474
17
1 in 204
480
6,299
3,895
26
1 in 150
618
2,456
2,002
4
1 in 500
815
1,454
1,083
15
1 in 72
744
5, 580
6,157
99
lin 62
1103
5,319
4,252
18
1 in 237
799
2.800
1,795
13
1 in 138
641
5,!) 19
4,845
56
1 in 86
818
10,013
6,142
63
1 in 97
614
835
807
5
1 in 161
966
2,299
1,943
26
1 in 75
845
4,450
3,581
70
1 in 51
804
6, 324
4.635
65
1 in 71
733
5,873
2,920
31
1 in 94
498
1,707
79G
9
lin 88
466
1,599
1,132
21
lin 54
708
1,831
926
4
1 in 231
505
Consolidated table exhibiting the amount and annual ratio of sickness and mortality in each region,
from diseases of the res2nratory system.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
Coast of New England
Harbor of New York
We.*t Point
North Interior, East
The Great Lakes _
North Interior, West ._
Middle Atlantic
Middle Interior, East
Newport Barracks, Kentucky
Jefferson Barracks and St. Louis Arsenil
Middle Interior, West
South Atlantic -
South Interior, East
South Interior, West
Atlantic Coast of Florida.
Gulf Coast of Floriila
Texas, Southern Frontier
Texas, Western Frontier
New Mexico
California, Southern
California , Northern
Oregon and Washington
3,963
9, 387
6,901
3, 553
10,346
7, 230
0,299
2,450
1,454
5,580
5,319
2.800
5,919
10,013
835
2, 299
4,450
6,324
5. 873
1,707
1,599
1,831
1.356
5,185
6,599
1,586
4,281
2.611
2,281
756
445
2,740
2, 255
1,089
1,53"
2,588
99
317
1,165
1,376
1.218
340
420
414
8
1 in 169
59
1 in 88
9
1 in 733
16
1 in 99
50
1 in 85
26
1 in 100
19
1 in 120
8
1 in 95
11
lin 40
65
1 in 42
24
1 in 94
9
1 in 121
37
1 in 41
51
1 in 51
1
1 in 99
3
1 in 106
23
1 in 50
23
1 in 60
20
1 in 61
7
1 in 49
5
1 iu 84
6
lin 82
342
552
956
446
413
361
362
307
306
492
423
389
259
258
118
137
261
217
207
199
262
226
496
REPORT ON THE SICKNESS AND MORTALITY
CoTisolidated table exhibiting the amount and ratio of sickness and mortality in the several regions,
from phthisis pulmonalis.
No.
Mean strength.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
U
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
Coast of New England
Harbor of New Tork ...
West Point
North Interior, East
The Great Lalves -
Nortli Interior, West
Middle Atlantic
Middle Interior, East
Newport Barracks, Kentucky
Jeiferson Barracks and St. Louis Arsenal
Middle Interior, West
South Atlantic
South Interior, East
South Interior, West
Atlantic Coast of Florida.
Gulf Coast of Florida
Texas, Southern Frontier
Texas, Western Frontier
New Mexico
California, Southern
California, Northern
Oregon and Washington -
3,9C3
9, 387
6,901
3,553
10,346
7,230
6,299
2,456
1,454
5, .580
5,319
2,800
5,919
10,013
835
2,299
4,450
6,324
5,873
1,707
1,599
1,831
No. treated.
Deaths.
19
5
56
35
6
8
17
10
47
33
30
15
16
14
6
3
5
4
23
21
28
13
26
5
43
28
20
25
2
1
16
3
18
11
25
12
8
3
9
5
9
4
6
2
Ratio ot*casos
per 1,000 or
mean st'glh.
4.8
5.9
0.8
4.7
4.5
4.1
2.5
2.4
3.4
4.1
5.2
9.2
7.2
2
2.3
6.9
4
3.9
1.3
5.2
5.6
3.2
It was originally the intention to close the first division of this report with a general analysis
of the statistics, hut various considerations have led to the ahandonment of that purpose. The
introduction of the individual opinions or deductions of the compiler in an official report of this
character is considered of douhtful propriety. With regard, however, to the table showing
the amount and ratio of phthisis jiulmonalis in the several regions, the following remarks are
submitted :
The ratio of "cases treated" is given in this table in preference to that of deaths, for the
reason heretofore stated, that soldiers afi'ected with chronic diseases are frequently discharged
from the service in accordance with their own wishes.
The cadets of the Military Academy at West Point are young, are only admitted after a rigid
examination in regard to their health and physical develojiment, and remain but four years in
that institution. The statistics for West Point should therefore be excluded from any analysis
of the results exhibited in this table ; those also for New York harbor are to be considered as
constituting a partial exception for the reasons stated on page 14 of this volume. One other
qualification relative to these statistics needs to be mentioned : the ratio given for tlie North
Interior West is higher than would be the case if the statistics for Fort Crawford were
thrown out.
It will be perceived by an examination of this table that, with exception of West Point, the
lowest ratio of cases of consumption occurs in New Mexico, being only 1.3 per 1,000 ; and the
highest in the South Atlantic Kegion, where it is 9.2 per 1,000.
IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES.
497
It will also be noticed that the regions designated as the South Interior East and Gulf coast
of Florida give the next highest proijortions, being respectively 7.2 and 6.9 per 1,000 of mean
strength. The ratios for these three regions, and also those for California, are higher than for
any of the regions in the northern division. A careful examination of the consolidated tem-
perature, rain, and weatlier tables in this volume, in connexion with tlie statistics relative to
consumption, will, it is believed, lead to the following conclusions :
First. That temperature, considered by itself, does not exert that marked controlling influ-
ence upon the development or progress of phthisis which has been attributed to it. If a high
range of temperature were favorable to the consumptive, the South Atlantic Region, the South
Interior East, and the Gulf coast of Florida, should exhibit a lower ratio than the colder regions
of the north and northwest, whereas the contrary obtains ; and again, if a high range of tem-
perature were the controlling element in causing an increased ratio of this disease in the two
southern regions above named, we ought not to find a lower proportion of cases in Texas, where
the temperature is higher, nor in the South Interior West, where it is nearly the same as in the
South Atlantic Region.
■Second. That the most important atmospherical condition for a consumptive is drtxess. An
examination of the rain tables will serve in part to elucidate this position, and in part only, for
the total annual precipitation in rain and snow may be equal in two or more places, and yet the
average condition of the air as respects moisture — the dew-point — may widely diifer. It is
impossible to represent all these distinctive features by statistical tables, but the fact has been
forcibly impressed upon the compiler during the minute examinations necessary to the prepara-
tion of this report.
Third. That next to drtxess in importance is an equable temperature — a temperature uni-
form for long periods, and not disturbed by sudden or frequent changes. An uniformly low tem-
perature is much to be preferred to an uniformly liigh temperature. The former exerts a tonic
and stimulating efiect upon the general system, while the latter produces general debility and
nervous exhaustion. The worst possible climate for a consumptive is one with long-continued
high temperature and a high dew-point.
In this connexion, and in support of these deductions, reference is made to some of the
opinions of medical officers recorded in this report, (vide pp. 27, 29, 81, 82, and 249 ;) also to
the following table, compiled from the " Statistical Reports on the Sickness, Mortality, and
Invaliding in the British Army," showing the amount and ratio of cases of consumption at
different stations occupied by British troops.
Station.
Mean strength.
No. treated.
Deaths.
Ratio of cases
per 1,000 of
mean st'gth.
Gibraltar -.. - _- _
33,131
21,172
11,224
26,806
90,456
176
129
100
149
524
116
91
54
111
327
5.3
Malta
6.0
8.9
Nova Scotia and New Brunswick
Canada .. - __ -_--
5.5
5.7
S. 96-
-63
GEOGEAPHICAL POSITIONS OF THE MILITARY POSTS,
WITH
THEIU LOCAL TOPOGRArHY AND ALTITUDES ABOVE THE SEA,
AXD THE
AUTHORITIES FROM WHICH THEY HAVE BEEN OBTAINED.
In the preparation of the Army Meteorological Register, which I had the honor to submit to
the Surgeon General in October, 1855, and from which the following tables, carefully revised
and corrected, are republished, every effort was made to obtain the true geographical positions
and altitudes of the military posts. In the research required for that purpose, great aid was
obtained from the reports of the officers in charge of the northeastern boundary survey, of
the coast survey, of the Mexican boundary survey, and of the several surveys for a route for
a railroad to tlie Pacific. The endeavor was then, and is now, to give the proper credits for
those determinations which, i-n most instances, have been obtained from observations made with
great scientific accuracy, and with the aid of the best portable instruments. The positions
which are given, as reported by medical officers, are to be considered as close approximations
only, though in some few instances the data may have been obtained by them with accuracy
from officers of the corps of topographical engineers or other sources. The latitudes, lon-
gitudes^ and altitudes given in these tables are to be considered as more correct than those
in the special reports on the topography and diseases of the several posts. As a general rule,
fractious of less than one minute of a degree have been omitted as unnecessarily precise for the
present purpose.
FoktKext, Maine. — South Imnk of St. John's river, at the mouth of Fish river. Country rolling and open. Position and
altitude by Major ,J. D. Graham, United States Topograpliical Kngineers. 18i4.
FoET Fairfield, Maine. — Soutli bank of Aroostook river, six miles from its entrance into the St. John's. On a local emi-
nence 100 feet above tlie river, with a hilly or undulating forest back -ground. Exposure generally open.
Position and altitude from Major J. D. Graham. lSi4.
Hancock Barracks, Maine — Houlton, eastern boundary of the State, near the St. John's river. Locality similar to that
of Fort Fairfield. Position and altitude by Major Graham. 134i.
Fort Sullivan, Maine. — Moose island, Eastport, the most eastern point of the State. Open marine exposure. Position
derived from the northeastern boundary survey. (Major J. D. Graham.)
Fort Preble, Maine. — Cape Elizabeth, south side of Portland harbor. Exposure open, and mainly seaward. Position from
United States Coast Survey.
Fort Coxstitction, New Haupsiiire. — On a point at the mouth of Piscataqua river, Portsmouth harbor, and three miles
eastward from Portsmouth. Open marine exposure. Position from United States Coast Survey.
Fort IxDEPaNDENCE, Massachusetts. — On Castle island, Boston harbor, three miles southeast of State-house, Boston. Full
marine exposure. Position from United States Coast Survey.
Watertown Aksesal, Massachusetts. — At Watertown, on the Charles river, six miles west of State-house, Boston. An
inland and protected locality. Position from United States Coast Survey. Altitude approximate.
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS OF THE MILITARY POSTS. 499
FoKT AVouoTT, Rhode Island. — On Goat island, Newport harbor, half a mile from the town of Newport. The exposure is
open, principally over water-surface, and toward the sea. Position from United States Coast Survey.
FoKT Ad.\ms, Ruode Lsl.wd. — Brenton's Point, in Newport harbor, entrance to Narragansett bay, one mile westward from
Newport. Open and free exposure, mainly marine. Some rocky elevations in the vicinity. Position
from United States Coast Survey.
FoKi Teujibuli, Co.nxecticct. — On the right bank of Thames river, one mile south of New London, and two and a half miles
from the shore of Long Island Sound. Exposure free and open, yet less direct to the sea than other ports
of the Atlantic coast. Position from United States Coast Survey.
FoHT Hamiltok, New York. — At the Narrows of New York harbor, on a point at the southwest comer of Long Island, and
six miles south of New York city. Exposure particularly open seaward. Position from United States
Coast Survey.
FoKT Wood, New Yoek. — On Bedloe's island. New York harbor, two and a half miles south of New York city.
Fort Columbus, New York. — On Governor's island, New York harbor, very near the city of New York. It is much less
exposed to direct sea influences than Fort Hamilton, though surrounded by the waters of the river and
hay. Position from the United States Coast Survey.
West Point, New York. — On the west bank of Hudson river, fifty miles from the sea. The locality is surrounded by hills,
varying from GOO to 1,400 feet in height on the west, except on the line of the river. Its cOD&ned
position has a marked effect. Position and altitude from Assistant Surgeon Hitchcock.
Water VLiET Arsenal, New Yore. — At Watervliet, above Albany, on the west hank of the Hudson river, and nearly oppo-
site to Troy. The localit)* is surrounded by hills and an elevated back country, and is much confined.
It has local peculiarities somewhat like those of West Point. Position derived from those of Troy and
Albany, as given in the American Almanac.
Plattsburg Barracks, New York. — At Plattsburg, on the western shore of Lake Champlain. The back country is rough
and elevated. Position from Professor Thompson's map of Vermont. Altitude of lake by Professor
Tliompson, 90 feet ; the post is 90 feet above low water of the lake.
Madison Barracks, New York. — At Sackett's Harbor, on Lake Ontario, on the southern side of the bay formed by the
entrance of Black river into the lake. Distant from the lake eight miles. The exposure is generally
open and over a level district. Position from the most recent maps of New York. ° Altitude of Lake
Ontario taken as 250 feet.
FoKT Ontario, New York. — At Oswego, southern shore of Lake Ontario, on the east bank of Oswego river. Exposure
generally open, and particularly so toward the lake. Its local elevation 50 to GO feet above Lake Ontario.
Position from the most recent maps of New York.
Fort Niagar.\, New York. — On a point of land at the mouth of Niagara river, and nearly surrounded by the waters of
the river and of Lake Ontario. Exposure particularly level and open. Position from the Army Meteoro-
logical Register, compared and verified.
Buffalo Babbaces, New York. — At Buffalo, in the northern and most elevated portion of the city. Exposure generally
free, yet not directly open to Lake Erie. Position from Army Meteorological Register for 1831 to 1842.
Alleghany Arsenal, Pennsylvania. — At Pittsburg, three miles northeast of the city, and on the immediate bank of the
Alleghany river. The position is confined and local in a great degree, with elevated districts at a distance
from the river, and high bluffs bordering it. Position from the Army Meteorological Register, com-
pared ; the latitude as given in the American Almanac, f
Carlisle Babbacks, Pennsylv.inia. — At Carlisle, in a valley opening to the Susquehanna river at Harrisburg. At the
northwest there is a considerable mountain ridge, but the locality is generally open. Position from the
most recent maps. Altitude from railroad surveys.
Fobt MnTLix, Pennsylvania. — Ou an island in the Delaware river, five miles below Philadelphia. Open exposure, with
much water surface. Position from United States Coast Survey.
FoKT Delaware, Delaware. — On an island in Delaware river, four miles from Newcastle, Delaware. Exposure open, with
much fresh-water surface. Position from United States Coast Survey.
Fort McHenry, Maryland. — On an arm of Patapsco river, three miles southeast of Riltimore. Exposure entirely open and
free, with much water surface. Position from the United States Coast Survey.
*The longitude of Sackett's Harbor is given at 75' 57' VV. iji the American Almanac.
t The longitude of I'ltiiburg is variou.^ly given, as 60° 03 , 80° 06", and W 14' ; the last by Di. Drake. Ii can banlly be greater than Ihc posiilon
given in the Anny Meteorological Register, to which it is resiored.
500 GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS OF THE MILITARY POSTS.
Fort Severn, JIartlaxd. — Near Annapolis, on Severn river, at its entrance into Cliesapealie hay. A very level and open
water exposure. Position from the United States Coast Survey.
FoBT WAsnixGTOX, Marvlaxd. — On the east bank of the Potomac river, fourteen miles below Washington city. At the
east of the fort there are low hills, and the locality is somewhat confined and glen-like. Position from
the fnitcd States Coast Survey.
FoKT MoxKOE, Virginia. — At the terminus of the western shore of Cliesapeake bay, on a sandy beach known as Old Point
Comfort. An open exposure of water surface, within reach of the sea influence through the wide en-
trance of Chesapeake bay. Position from the United States Coast Survey.
Bellona Arsenal, Virginia. — On the right bank of James river, twelve miles from Richmond. An open exposure, elevated
100 feet above the river. Position derived from that of the capitol, Richmond. °
FoKT Macon, Noeth Carolina. — On the point of Bogue island, near Beaufort. Direct ocean exposure. Position from the
United States Coast Survey.
Fort Johnston, North Carolina. — At Smithville, mouth of Cape Fear river. Exposure over water surface mainly, and
open to the sea. Position from the United States Coast Survey.
Fort Moultrie, Soith Carolin.\. — On Sullivan's island, entrance to Charleston harbor, eight miles from Charleston. Di-
rect ocean exposure. Position from the United States Coast Survey.
Augusta Arsenal, Geokoia. — On an elevated position, three miles fromAugusta, two miles from the Savannah river at the
nearest point, and 200 feet above the river at Augusta. Among sand-hills, with a free exposure. Po-
sition from the Army Meteorological Register.
Oolethorpe Barracks, Georgia. — On low ground, one mile south of Savannah and twelve miles from the ocean. Level
exposure over salt and fiesh water surfaces. Position from the Army Meteorological Register. f
Fort Marion, Florida. — At St. Augustine, on the shore of St. Augustine bay. Level exposure over fresh and salt water
surfaces. Position from the Army map of Florida, 1839.
Fori Shasnon, Florida. — At Pilatka, on the west bank of the St. John's river, near twenty miles southwest of St. Augus-
tine district. Generally level. Position from the Army map ; approximate.
New Smyrna, Florida. — East coast of peninsula, on the right bank of Halifax river, eight miles from Mosquito bar, and
two miles in a direct line from the Atlantic. The whole exposure entirely level and open. Position
from the United States Coast Survey.
Fort Pierce, Florida. — At Indian river inlet, east coast of peninsula, on the shore of St. Lucie sound, and separated by it
from the immediate shore of the Atlantic. A level district and open exposure. Position derived from
recent Coast Survey charts of the coast southward ; approximate.
Fort Dallas, Florida. — Near Cape Florida, east coast of peninsula, on the Miami river at the inner shoie of Biscayne bay.
Separated by this narrow hay and a point of land from the ocean. Position from the Topographical
Bureau's map of Florida, 1846. J
Key 'West Barracks, Florida. — At Key West, Florida Keys, sixty miles southwest of Cape Sable. Direct sea exposure,
with but a small area of land surface. Position from the United States Coast Survey.
Fori Myers, Florida. — Near Charlotte harbor, west coast of peninsula, on the bank of Caloosahatchee river, near its
mouth, and several miles from the immediate coast of the Gulf. Position from the United States Coast
Survey.
Fort Hamer, Florida. — North of Charlotte harbor, west coast of peninsula, on a stream tributary to this bay, and some
istancc from the coast. Position from Assistant Surgeon Sloan.
Fort Brooke, Florida. — At (he head of Tampa Bay, west coast of peninsula, about thirty miles from the Gulf of Mexico.
The surrounding country is low and level, as at all stations of the peninsula. Position from the United
States Coast Survey.
Fort Meade, Florida. — In the interior of the peninsula, forty-six miles east-southeast from Tampa Bay, and near the
Kissimmee river. Its location is on a comparatively elevated sand ridge, higher than any adjacent land.
Position from Topographical Bureau's map of Florida, 1846 ; altitude approximate.
* Richmond, (capitol,) Virginia, lal. 37° 32' 17"; long. 77' 27' W.— American almanac.
t Position of S.irannah E.\clian;e, ]M. 32' 4' 53 '; long. Sl° 5' 14 '. From fniti-d States Coa.<t Survey.
} A sketch map of Uie Coa^t Survey, published in 1853, gives Cape Florida at lat. 25° 40', and long. 80" 05*, aearly. Fort Dallas is about tea miles
distant, northwest.
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS OF THE MILITARY POSTS. 501
FoET Kino, Floeida.— In the interior of the peninsula, east of Cedar keys, about forty miles from the coast of the Gulf of
Mexico, and sixty miies from the Atlantic coast. The surrounding country is slightly undulating, alter-
nately sandy pine barrens and marshy hammocks. Tosition by Assistant Surgeon Forry, compared with
recent maps.
Cedar Keys, Floeida. — On the western coast of the peninsula. Tlic keys or islands are several miles from the main land.
Position from United States Coast Survey.
Fort Baebancas, Florida. — Entrance to Pensacola harbor, near Pensacola. The locality of the barracks is about one and
a half miles west of the navy yard, on the west side of the entrance to the bay, and about eight miles
southwest of Pensacola. Exixised to the Gulf. Position from United States Coast Survey.
FoBT MORGAX, Alaiiama.— At Mobile Point, entrance to Mobile bay, near seventy miles south of Mobile. Position from
United States Coast Survey.
Mount Veexon* Arsenal, Alabama. — Near Mobile river, about thirtj'-two miles north of Mobile. Tljc post has a local ele-
vation of near 200 feet above a small branch of the river. Coon creek. Position from Mitchell's map of
Alabama, corrected by Coast Survey position of Mobile.
East Pascagoula,'- Mississirn.— At the mouth of Pascagoula river, or on islands near it. An open Gulf exposure, sur-
rounded by low beaches and water surface. Position from Coast Survey.
Pass Christian, Mississippi. — At St. Louis bay, entrance to Lake Borgne. (A summer station.) Open exposure to the Gulf.
Position from Coast Survey charts.
Fort Pike, Louisiana. — On the north side of Petite Coquille island, entrance to Lake Pontchartrain, thirty-five miles north-
east of New Orleans. The Influence of the winds and atmosphere of the Gulf is quite decided, the whole
exposure being over water surface or very low shores. Position from Coast Survey charts.
FoET Wood, Louisiana. — South of Petite Coquille island, seven miles southwest of Fort Pike, and between Lake Borgne
and Lake Pontchartrain. Exposure less open than that of Fort Pike, and with a predominance of fresh-
water surface and marshes in its vicinity. Position from Coast Survey charts.
New Orleans Baeeacks, Louisiana. — On the north bank of the Mississippi, three miles below the centre of the city. The
locality is protected by forests to some extent from the winds of the Gulf. Position that of New Or-
leans ; from Nicollet. Altitude of the river at the Barracks eleven feet above the Gulf; the hospital is
placed at ten feet above Lake Pontchartrain, which is at mean sea-level, nearly.
Baton Rouge Barracks, Louisiana. — At Baton Rouge, on the east hank of the Mississippi, one hundred and forty miles
from New Orleans. The locality is on the first blutf met with on ascending the river. Exposure open.
Position from Army Meteorological Register, 1831 to 1842, verified by comparison with the most recent
maps.
Fort Jesup, Louisiana. — Southwest of Nachitoches, Louisiana, on a ridge midway between the Red and Sabine rivers,
twenty-five miles distant from each. The country is rolling, but not hilly. Winds from the Gulf are
felt through the summer. Position from Graham's and Mitchell's maps. «
Fort Towson, Indian Teeritoet. — Near Red river, six miles distant from it and from the Kiamichi, a branch entering it
from the north. In part surrounded by hilly and rolling country, and on the south by open marshes or
prairies. Position measured from the corrected maps of the Pacific Railroad surveys. Altitude for the
post, above Red river and Gates' creek, from Assistant Surgeon Madison. Whole altitude approximate.
Foet Washita, Indian Territory. — Near the Washita river, f thirty miles from its entrance into Red river. The location
is a mile and a half east of the Washita, one hundred and fifty feet above it, and on the border of high
open prairies. Position from the map of Captain Whipple, 1854, compared ; approximate. Altitude of
Burlace of water in Red river at Preston, by Captain Pope, Topographical Engineers, 641 feet. Altitude
for post taken as reported by Assistant Surgeon Baily.J
Fori Sjiitu, Arkans.vs. — At the mouth of Poteau river, on the south bank of the Arkansas, and at the western limit of
Missouri. Southward the country is broken and hilly, but the locality is not confined. Position and
altitude by Captain Whipple, Topographical Engineers, 1S54, from astronomical and barometric obser-
vations.
* This is a summer station for the forces stationed at New Orleans. It has had various positions at East Pascagouia and on the islands near, called
Camp Law^on, Camy) Twiggs, &c.
t TliP \Ve^t».Tii oi False Wasliita.
t The altitudes on Red river given by Captain Tope appear too great ; and a* tlicy arc determined by a line of levels from El Paso, the Wwer altitude
of Dr. Baily is taken, who dtfes not give bis mode of obtaining it.
502 GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS OF THE MILITARY POSTS.
Fort Gibson, Lndiax Teuritort. — On the cast lank of the Neosho or Grand river, three miles from its junction with the
ArUiinsas. The locality is low, surrounded by bottom land on one side, and more elevated prairie on
others, with hills in tlic distance. Position from Army Meteorological Register, 182G to 1830. Altitude
determined by Assistant Surgeon C'oolidge, in 1847, as the result of the mean of ten months' barometric
readings, compared with the mean reading for the same period at Fort Columbus, New York.°
FoET Scorr, ELiXSAS. — Near the JIarmiton river, four miles from the western boundary of Missouri, on the military road
from Fort Leavenworth to Fort Gibson. The locality is a high table prairie, which, at the south of the
Marmiton, divides the tributaries of the Missouri from those of the Arkansas. E.xposure particularly
open and imconfined. Position from Mitchell's map of Jlissonri. Altitude estimated.
Jefferson Barracks, Missouri. — On the west bank of the Mississippi, ten miles below St. Louis. The locality is on a bluff
100 feet above the river, with a somewhat hilly lack-ground. Exposure not open westward, but affected
by the river depression. Position derived from that of St. Louis. Altitude from Nicollet, for the surface
of the Mississippi.
Si. Louis Arsenal, Missouri. — On the west bank of the Mississippi, three miles below the city of St. Louis. The locality
is on the immediate bank of the river, much confined in regard to e.xposure, and affected by local ex-
tremes. Position that of Nicollet for St. Louis cathedral. Altitude from Dr. Engelmanu's barometric
comparisons with New Orleans.
Newport Barracks, Kentucky.— At Newport, on the south bank of the Ohio river, opposite Cincinnati. The exposure is
generally open. Position derived from that of Professor Mitchell's observatory, on Mount Adams, au
eminence overlooking Cincinnati from the northeast. Altitude approximate, above the river.
Detroit Barracks, Michigan. — At Detroit, within the city limits. The locality has been changed at times, always retain-
ing an open inland exposure. Position from Army Meteorological Register, 1831 to 1842. f
Dearborntille Arsenal, Michigan. — Near Defroit, on the river Rouge, about ten miles west of the city. Coimtry low
and fiat. Position derived from that of Detroit.
Fort Gratiot, Michicvn. — At the southern extremity of Lake Huron, west bank of St. Clair river. Exposure generally open,
and over an undulating forest country, without hills. Position from Mitchell's map ; approximate.
Fort Mackinac, Michigan. — Island of Mackinac, in the straits connecting Jjakes Huron and Michigan. The fort is on an
abrupt elevation, 150 feet above the lake, with a hundred feet or more of greater elevation in a hill north
of it. Exposure particularly open, except to the north. Position from Captain Macomb's Survey of the
Lakes.
Fort Brady, Michigan. — At the outlet of Lake Superior, Sault St. Marie, on the south side of the river. It is fifteen miles
from the open lake, on a shore but little elevated above the river, and with an open exposure. Latitude
and altitude from Army Meteorological Register, 1831 to 1842. Longitude by Major Long, Topographical
Engineers, 1823.
Fort Wilkins, Michigan. — At Ccipper Harbor, Keewenaw Point, south shore of Lake Superior. Tlie precise location and
exposure are n(jt known. Position from the maps of the geological surveys.
Fort Howard, Wisconsin. — tVt Green bay, on the west side of Fox river, at its mouth. Locality but slightly elevated,
with a low, marshy inland exposure. Position from Mitchell's map of Wisconsin.
Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin. — On Rock river, about forty miles west of Milwaukie. Position from recent maps of Wisconsin.
Fort Dearborn, Illinois. — At Chicago, on the immediate bank of Chicago river, and very near the shore of Lake Michigan.
Entirely level and open prairie and lake exposure. Position that of Chicago in American Almanac, 1855.
Fort Winnebago, Wisconsin. — On the east bank of Fox river, (tributary to Green bay,) central Wisconsin. District low,
level, marshy, and open. P(i.sition from Army Meteorological Register, 182G to 1830, compared with
Nicollet's and other recent maps. Altitude derived from those of Fort Crawford and Fort Howard ; ap-
proximate.
Fort Crawford, Wisconsin. — At Prairie du Ohien, on the east bank' of the Mississippi, two miles above the mouth of the
Wisconsin river. Exposure of the locality open, with bluffs at two or three miles distance. Position
from Army Meteorological Register, 1826 to 1830, compared with Nicollet's and Owen's maps.J Altitude
that of Prairie du Chien, from Nicollet.
* .Assistant Surgeon CnoIid£;e reports, in Janiinry, 1844, that '■ the latitude and lon^tudc of this post have recently been approximately determined
by Captain Cady, 6tli infantry, at 35" 48' 10 ', and 95' 3' 15", by calculations based on McCoy's survey of the Cherokee boundaries in 1837. The source
of the determination used is not known."
t St. Paul's Church, Detroit, is given in the .\merican Almanac for ]8o3 at 83° 2' 30" W. long.
t Position (br Fur Company's housa, by Nicollet, lat. 43° 3" 6'' N. ; 91° 9' IB" W. long.
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS OF THE MILITARY POSTS. 503
PoKT Ahmstrong, Illinois. — On Rock island, in the Mississippi river, four miles iibove tiie mouth of Rock river. Position
from Nicollet's map.
Fort Atkinson, Iowa. — On Turkey river, northwest of Dubuque, and near fifty miles westward from the Mississippi at the
nearest point. Locality not known. Position from Nicollet's map. Altitude estimated.
Fort Ripley, (Gaines,) Minnesota. — On the west bank of the Mississippi, six miles south of the mouth of Crow-wing river.
Exposure generally level and open, with gradual elevations in the back-ground. Position and altitude
from those of mouth of Crow-wing river, by Nicollet.
Fobt Snelling, Minnesota. — At the junction of the St. Peter's with the Mississippi river, on the enclosed angle. The posi-
tion is locally elevated, but it has a back-ground of bluffs protecting it on the northwest. Position and
altitude from Nicollet.
Fort Ridgelt, Minnesota.- — At the head of navigation of the St. Peter's river, near seventy miles southwest of Fort Snelling.
Position from Nicollet's map. Altitude estimated from Nicollet's altitudes of points on the St. Peter's
river.
Fort Dodge, (Clarke,) Iowa. — On the upper portion of the Des Moines river, at the junction of Lizard fork. Exposure
generally open, surrounded by extensive prairies. Position from Owen's Geological Report. Altitude
by Owen for course of Des Moines river ; by Nicollet at its mouth.
Fort Des Moines, Iowa.. — On the Des Moines river, central Iowa. Exposure generally open. Position from Owen's Geolo-
gical Report. Altitude from Owen for Des Moines river ; from Nicollet for its mouth.
Fort Croghan, Iowa. — On the east bank of the Mississippi, near twenty miles below Council Bluffs. High bluffs are at
some distance from the liver, three to six miles, but the exposure is generally open. Position from Ni-
collet's map. Altitude from Lieutenant Donelson, 1854.
Council Bluffs, =• Nebraska. — On the west side of the Missouri river, thirty miles above the mouth of the Platte. The
bluffs are much exposed toward all points, while the immediate valley of the river is confined and local.
Position from Nicollet's map. Altitude from Nicollet and Lieutenant Donelson, 1854; (1,032 feet for
the river, and 1,327 feet for the bluffs.)
Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. — On the west bank of the Missouri, twenty miles above the mouth of Kansas river. The lo-
cality is elevated and the exposure particularly open. Position from Major W. H. Emory ; altitude that
of Nicollet for the landing, 746 feet, 150 feet being given by the officers as the height of the post above
the river.
Fort Rilev, Kansas. — On the angle formed by the junction of Republican fork (or Pawnee river) and Kansas river. Sur-
rounded by open plains. Latitude by Captain Gunnison ; longitude from Fremont. f Altitude derived
from positions on Captain Gunnison's line of railroad survey ; approximate.
Fort Kearnt,J Nebraska. — On the south bank of Platte river, midway between the Mississippi and the Rocky mountains.
The valley of the Platte is broad, and the bluffs are remote and of moderate elevation. Position from
Captain Stansbury, Topographical Engineers, 1850. Altitude by Fremont.
Fort Laramie, Nebraska. — At the junction of the Laramie river with the north fork of the Platte. Locality elevated,
and exposure open, over naked plains and bluffs. Position by Fremont, 1843. Altitude from Captain
Stansbury 's map.
Fort Atkinson, Kansas. — Near the crossing of the Arkansas river, Santa F^ route, twenty-six miles below the point so de-
signated. The bluffs are low, and the country on all sides unbroken prairie, without timber even on the
river bottom. Position and altitude from Captain Gunnison's railroad survey, 1854.
Fort Arbuckle, Indian Terkitorv. — Near the 'W'ashita river, " four miles southward at the nearest point, and seventy-six
miles north of west of the junction of this with Red river."§ The country generally open, though
woody at the post. Hills at the southward. Position measured from the general Pacific railroad map,
1855. II Altitude derived from comparison with points on Captain Whipple's line of survey ; appro.xi-
mate.
Fort 'Worth, Texas. — On the west fork of the Trinity river. Upper Texas. The locality is a high, open prairie, fully ex-
posed, and intermediate between the two belts of woodland called the Cross Timbers. Elevation above
the stream 150 feet. Position from Colonel Johnston's map, Topographical Engineers, 1849. Altitude
estimated by comparison with that of Red river and other points.
* The town of Council Blufli is on the east side of the river, below the site of the old fort.
t Fremont gives the longitude of an encampment half a mile west of the junction of these rivers at OG" 24' 56" ; 1S43.
} " Old Fort Kearny" was on the Missouri, below tl\c niouUi of the Platte.
§ Assistant Surgeon Glisan, 18o2.
II The position given previous to 1834 was from the best Topographical Bureau's maps, but the great discrepancies previously existing in the position*
f Uiis part of our territory are mainly removed by the recent Pacific railroad surveys. The final position is taken from these.
504 GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS OP THE MILITARY POSTS.
Fori Gkaham, Texas. — On the east bank of the Brazos, Josd Maria village. The valley of the Brazos, though wide, is
bounded by bluff banks, which give a somewhat local character to the exposure. Position from Colonel
Johnston's map, 1819. Altitude estimated.
Fort Belknap, Texas. — "On the north bank of the Red fork of the Brazos, 110 miles northwest of Fort Graham. Tlie
locality is on the edge of a rolling prairie extending back many miles. "° South of the river there are
hills. Position from Captain Pope's map, 1855. Altitude estimated from altitudes taken near it on the
line of Pope's survey.
Post Phaxtosi Hii,l, Texas. — Clear fork of Brazos river. This post is about seventy-five miles southwest of Fort Belknap,
in a similarly high and open country. Position derived from points of the surveys of Johnston, Pope,
and others. Altitude similarly obtained.
FoKT Chadboukne, Ti^xas. — On Oak creek, a tributary of the Colorado river from tlie north. The surrounding country is
hilly and mountainous, but the particular features of the locality are not known. Position and altitude
from a sketch liy Assistant Surgeon Swift, based on survey by Colonel Johnston, of Topographical En-
gineers.
Camp J. E. Johnston, Texas. — On the Conchos river, a branch of the Colorado from the south, near forty miles southwest of
Fort Chadbourne. The locality is in a valley, five miles wide, surrounded by hills and mountains in
the distance. Position and altitude from a sketch by Assistant Surgeon Swift, based on surveys by Colo-
nel Johnston.
Fort Gates Texas. — On the Rio Leon, a tributary of the Brazos ri\'er, fifty-five miles southwest of Fort Graham. The
locality is in a valley, with much wooded country in the vicinity. Position from Colonel Johnston's
map. Altitude estimated.
Fort CROcnAX, Texas. — On a small tributary of the Colorado, near ton miles from that river, and in a somewhat sheltered
valley. Position from Johnston's map. Altitude approximate.
Fort Martin Scott, Texas. — At Fredericksburg, on the Rio Pedcrnales, a branch of the Colorado river. It is two miles
from Fredericksburg and seventy-five from San Antonio. The locality is in a valley, with hills and
mountains at the west. Position from Johnston's map. Altitude approximate.
Fort McKaveti, Texas. — On the San Saba river, a branch of the Colorado. The locality is on the south bank, at an ele-
vation of 100 feet above the river, and with a generally open exposure. Position by Assistant Surgeon
Crawford, from Johnston's surveys, corrected by comparison with recent surveys. Altitude by Assistant
Surgeon Crawford.
FoET Mason Texas. — On the Llano river, a tributary of the Colorado. A hilly district, though not locally confined in its
exposure. Position from combined railroad map, 1855.
Fort Terrbit Texas. — At the source of the Kio Llano, a tributarj' of the Colorado. The locality is on a small plain, with
a very hilly and broken country in the direction of the source of the river. Position from the recent
combination of survey maps. Altitude (from Assistant Surgeon Anderson) by Colonel Johnston, Topo-
graphical Engineers.
Austin Texas. At the city of Austin, on the Colorado. I'he locality at which the observations were taken not known.
This point is at the head of navigation of the Colorado, and differs much in altitude and climate from
the chain of posts at the westward. Position from Johnston's map.
S.VN Antonio, Texas. — At the town of San Antonio, on San Antonio river. The precise position of the buildings for mili-
tary occupation is not known. The station compares very well with Austin, and is but little more ele-
vated. Position from Johnston's and other maps. Altitude by Major Graham, Topographical Engineers.
Fort Ewell, Texas. — On the Nueces river, at its southern bend. The country a low and generally arid plain. Position
from Johnston's and the railroad maps.
Fort Merrill, Texas. — On the Nueces river, midway between Fort Ewell and Corpus Christi. The country a low arid
plain. Position from the recent survey maps.
Corpus Christi, Texas. — At the head of Corpus Christi bay. The exposure to the Gulf of Mexico is somewhat broken by
the distance and the islands separating the coast bays from the Gulf. Position by Captain Cram, Topo-
graphical Engineers.
Fort Brown Texas. — At Brownsville, opposite Matamoras, and on the north side of the Rio Grande, about twenty miles
from the coast of the Gulf. Position and altitude from Major W. H. Emory, Mexican Boundary Survey.
Altitude approximate.
Assistant Surgeon Boily, 1852.
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS OF THE MILITARY POSTS. 505
RiXGOOLD Barracks, T'exas. — Near the town of Kio Grande, and nearly opposite Camargo, Mexico, on the Rio Grande,
sixty miles above Fort Brown. The locality is on the low lianks of the river, with a level back-ground.
Position and altitude from Major W. H. Emory, Mexican Boundary Survey.
Fort McIntosh, Texas. — At Laredo, valley of the Rio Grande, on a sandy plain, fifty feet above the river, two miles in
«-idth, and with a moderately hilly back -ground. Exposure free. Position and altitude from Major W.
H. Emory, Mexican Botmdary Survey.
Fort Du.nc.vn, Texas. — At Eagle Pass of the Rio Grande, on a dry eleTated plateau, much above the river bed. The lo-
cality is overlooked by a range of sand-hills of moderate elevation. Position and altitude from Major
W. H. Emory, Mexican Boundary Survey.
Fort I.nge, Texas. — On the Leona river, forty-five miles ■northeast of Fort Duncan. The district is moderately hilly and
generally wooded. Position from Major W. H. Emorj-, Mexican Boundary Survey. Altitude by Colonel
Graham.
Fort Li.ncolx, Texas. — On the Rio Seco, a branch of Nueces river, fifty-five miles nest of San Antonio. The district is
quite open and arid, and the locality elevated, with free exposure south and oast, and some protecting
hills at the northwest. Position from Johnston's surveys. Altitude approximate.
Fort Clark, Texas. — On the Las Mora.s, a small tributary of the Rio Grande, and about thirty miles north of Fort Dun-
can. At the west bank of the river, on a local elevation of fifty feet above it. Exposure free, and the
vicinity wooded. Position from general railroad map, 1855. Altitude estimated ; approximate.
Fort Davis, Texas. — In the mountains betweeon the Pecos river and El Paso, near Wild Rose Pass, at the sources of the
Limpia river. The location of the post is in a deep canon of the mountains, selected for the purpose of
protection against the severity of the winters. Position and altitude from Assistant Surgeon Guild, by
Lieutenant Smith, Topographical Engineers.
Fort Bliss, Texas. — Nearly opposite El Paso, on the north bank of the Rio Grande. The locality is in the immediate
river valley, opening southward. Table lands border the river here. Position that of El Paso, by the
Boundary Commission. Altitude that of Molino, near El Paso, by the Boundary Commission.
Fort Fillmore, New Mexico. — Near Mesilla, on the east side of the Rio Grande, near forty miles above El Paso. The
locality is a wide valley, with high mountains at ten to fifteen miles distance eastward. Position from
Major W. H. Emory, Mexican Boundary. Altitude by Lieutenant Parke, Topographical Engineers.
Dona A.na, New Mexico. — In the Rio Grande valley, near fifty miles above El Paso, and seven miles below the terminus
of the Jornada del Muerto. The locality is a wide valley, with high protecting mountains at several
miles' distance. Position and altitude from tlie Me.vican Boundary Survey.
Fort Tuob.n, New Me.xico. — " In the valley of the Rio Grande, and opposite the centre of the Jornada, sixty miles below
Fort Conrad. "° The location is at Santa Barbara, elevated fifty feet above the river border, and with a
back-ground of high mountains west and north. Position derived from those of Doiia Ana and Fort
Webster. Altitude approximate.
Fort Webster, New Mexico. — At the Copper Mines, near the sources of the Kio Mimbres and of the Gila, Sierra Madre.f
In a caiion among abrupt mountains. Position from the Mexican Boundary Survey.
Fort Coxrad, New Mexico. — On the west bank of the Rio Grande, near Valverde, and near one hundred and fifty miles
above EI Paso. The locality is on a gravelly ra^sa, half a mile west of the river, which rises by successive
steps into a rough and high range of mountains. No immediate protection. Position and altitude from
Assistant Surgeon Langworthy, 1853 ; not instrumentally determined.
Fort Craig, New Mexico. — At the northern terminus of the Jornada del Muerto, Rio Grande valley. This post is nine
miles below Fort Conrad, southward, and on the river. High mountains approach very near at the west.
Socorro, New Mexico. — On the west bank of the Rio Grande, in a recess of hills and abrupt moimtains of great elevation,
which nearly suiTound it, and render its exposure confined and local. Position from Major Emory's
survey. Altitude from Major Emory.
Alhuqcerqce, New Mexico. — At the town of Albuquerque, east bank of the Rio Grande. The valley is here more open,
and the mountains less abrupt, than at Socorro. Position and altitude by Captain Whipple, Topo-
graphical Engineers, 1854.
Note — The observations made at "EI Paso" in 1850, 1851, &c., were at a locality opposite the town, and slightly above it. Fort Bliss is lower
down, a little below EI Paso, at .MagolTinsville. The observations arc combined as at one locality. (See report of Captain Pope, Topographical Engi-
neers, of railroad explorations, pp. 4.'l, 4-1, &c., 1854.)
* Report of e.xpIoratioiKs by Brevet (.'aptaiii John Pope, Topographical Engineers, 1854.
fThe post was removed in October, 18o*J, to a point on the Rio Mimbres, eight miles east-northeast ol' the Copper Mines.
S. 36 04
506 GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS OF THE MILITARY POSTS.
CEBOLI.ETA, (Lagi'na,) Nkw MEXICO — At the soiuTos of a branch of tlie I'm-rco liver, west of tlu: Kio Oianile and soiitlnvost
of Santa Fe. At Cebolleta the post was in a narrow valley or glen, facing eastward, with a very defective
and local exposure. Suliseqiicntly, in October, 1851, the post was removed twenty miles soutliward to
Laguna, an open valley of the San .lose' river, a tributary of the Rio Puerco. Position and altitude of
Lagunafrom the railroad survey of Captain Whipple, Topographical Engineers, 1854. Position of Cebol-
leta from Simpson's map.
AuiQiiu, New JIexico. — On the Kio do C'hania, a tributary of the Rio Granile from the west, northwest of Santa 1*V. The
locality is a narrow valley in the vicinity of very high mountains. Position from Simpson's map. Alti-
tude approximate.
Saxta Fe, New Mexico. — On an elevated plateau, near forty miles eastward of the Kio Grande. The local exposure is
very free and open, but lofty mountain ranges enclose the plateaus and the immediate valley of the river.
Position and altitude by Major Emory.
La.s Veoas, New Mexico. — Near fifty miles eastward from Santa Fd, on the sources of Pecos river, and at the border of the
Great Plains. The locality is much confined, and influenced by high mountains at the northwest and
northeast, but it opens freely southeastward over the high plains of upper Te.xas. Position and altitude
derived from points of Captain Whipple's line of survey, 1854.
Fori Uxion, New Mexico. — Northeastward from Santa Ft? about fifty miles, on the Moro river, a branch of the Canadian.
Locality in a mountainous region, opening eastward to the Great Plains. Position from Assistant Siu'-
geon J. Byrne, determined. Altitude from the same, approximate.
Rayado, New Mexico.— In a mountain valley, near the Cimarron river, a branch of the Canadian from the west. Locality
mountainous. Position from Simpson's map of New Mexico.
Taos, New Mexico.— At the town of Taos, north of Santa Fd, an elevated plateau, near a tributary of the Rio Grande from
the east. Exposure generally open, similar to Santa F^ in the position of adjacent mountains. Position
from Lieutenant Parke's map, 1851. Altitude approximate.
CANTON.MEXT BuKGWiN, New Mexico. — Near the Rio Grande, nine miles northward from Taos. A rough mountainous district.
Local features not known. Position and altitude derived from those of Taos.
Fort iUssACHUSETTs, New Mexico. — In a sheltered valley on Utah creek, opening into the groat valley of San Luis. Lofty
mountains rise abruptly on the east, and surround San Luis valley on all sides. Position and altitude
from the railroad survey of Captains Gunnison and Beckwith, 1854.
Fort Defia.nce, New Mexico. — In a greatly elevated district of m^sas and mountains, west of the principal chain of the
Sierra Madre, and near the sources of the Rio de Chelly, a tributary of the Colorado of California. The
locality is " a narrow Canada," affected by local influences, with high mountains northward. Position
from Sitgreaves' and Whipple's surveys. Altitude derived from points on Whipple's survey ; ap-
proximate.
Fort Yuma, California.— On the west bank of the Great Colorado, eighty miles from the head of the Gtdf of California.
The locality is a rocky bluff, seventy-five feet above the river, with sand-hills and rocky bluiTs bordeiing
the wide valley, and connecting with an immense sand desert on the west. Position and altitude from
Major W. H. Emory's Mexican Boundary Survey.
San Dieqo, California. — Near the town of San Diego, at the head of a valley six miles distant from the Old Presidio, north-
east, and eight miles from the sea-shore. The valley opens upon the plain extending to the town and
shore hills, of 250 feet elevation, bordeiing the valley and a range of mountains lying about fifteen
miles east.o Position from Lieutenant Williamson's survey map, 1855, based on Boundary Commission
and Coast Survey positions for San Diego. Altitude approximate.
San Ltis Rev, California — At a town of that name, near forty miles northwest of San Diego. The lociility is in a wide
valley opening to the sea, and but four miles from it. Position from Lieutenant Williamson's survey
map, 1854.
Post Raxcuo del Cui.vo, Califor.ma.— In a wide valley near the Rio Santa Ana, thirty-five miles from the coast, and one
hundred and twenty miles north of San Diego. The position is inland, but without peculiar local
features. Position from Williamson's map, 1854. Altitude approximate.
Post Ra.vcho de Jirupa, Cai.ifok.ma.— In the valley of the Rio Santa Ana, eighteen miles northeast of Del Chino. Tlic
locality is elevated, in a valley three to four miles wide, with rough hills bordering it. (A.ssistant Sur-
geon R. 0. Abbott, September, 1852.) Position from Lieutenant Williamson's Survey of the Pasfes of
the Sierra Nevada. Altitude derived from that given by Lieutenant Williamson for San Bernardino.
iclnity
The local descrjption is by Assiitam Surgeon SuniiiiLra, Oc«jber, 1853. The locality is said to have been changed to other points of the plain and
nitv.
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS OF THE MILITARY POSTS. 507
FoKT Tfjox, CALiFouxiA.--At the head vf tlie San Joaquin valley, in a deep narrow valley opening westward. Position and
altitude by Lieutenant Williamson, Toijographical Engineers.
Fort Millku, California.— On the San Joaquin river, at the foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada, and abovit midway in the en-
tire length of the San Joaquin valley. Tlie locality has the peculiar features of this deep valley, several
hundred miles in length, and about fifty in width, and shut in by lofty mountain ranges both from the
sea and the interior.° Position and altitude by Lieutenant Williamson, Topographical Engineers, 1854.
MoNTEHEY, Califoenia. — On the south shore of the bay of Monterey, near seventy miles (direct) south-southeast from San
Francisco. The locality is a low plain, with a gentle slope in the back-ground, and a very full exposure
to the sea. The mountains are too far distant to influence the position. Position from Lieutenant Wise,
United States navy, 1847, and Coast Survey, 1851. Altitude changed in 1850, and again in 1852.
San Francisco, California. — At Presidio San Francisco, near the city. The locality is an elevated point, three miles west
of the city towards the coast, and much more directly exposed to the sea. The entrance to San Francisco
bay hounds the point on the north. Position from United States Coast Survey, 1853.
Sonoma, California. — On a small stream entering into San Pablo bay, near forty miles north of San Francisco. The
locality is partially protected from the sea exposure by spurs of the coast range of mountains, and its
character in this respect is intermediate between the posts of the coast and those of the interior of Cali-
fornia. Bosition derived from Coast Survey and other maps ; approximate.
Bkmcia, California. — At the town of Benicia, entrance to Suisun bay, thirty miles northeast of San Francisco. The locality
is one mile eastward from the town, with an exposure over water surface and low plains in all directions
except north and northwest, where there are protecting hills. The nearest point on the Pacific coast is
southwest thirty-five miles ; in a right line west it is distant fifty miles. Position from Com. Ringgold's
chart. United States navy, 1850. Altitude from Assistant Surgeon Griffin.
Camp Andkrson, California. — At Sutter City, near Sacramento, 120 miles northeast from San Francisco. The exposure is
locally over low plains, with much water surface, in the wide interior valley of Sacramento. Position
from Com. Ringgold's chart, 1850. Altitude approximate.
Camp Far West, California. — On Bear creek, a tributary of Feather river, near fifteen miles from its mouth and from the
town of Marysville, and thirty-five miles north-northeast from Sacramento. The locality is a confined
valley at the base of the foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada, on the east side of the great Sacramento valley.
Position from Assistant Surgeon Murray, compared. Altitude approximate.
Fort Reading, California. — On a small tributary of Sacramento river, one and a half miles from that river, and near five
miles from the town of Trinidad. The locality is a confined valley, with dry table-lands in the imme-
diate vicinity. It is near the upper extremity of Sacramento valley, and the mountain ranges are from
twenty to forty miles distant at either side. Position and altitude from Lieutenant Beckwith, United
States army, 1854. (Report of Pacific Railroad Explorations.)
Fort Humboldt, California. — Near the town of Bucksport, Humboldt bay, coast of California. The locality is a plateau
of slight elevation fronting the bay and fully open to the Pacific. From the coast, eastward two miles.
Position and altitude from Assistant Surgeon Deyerle, derived from United States Coast Surveys.
Fort Jones, California. — At Scott's valley, on a small tributary of Klamath river, near one hundred miles from the head
of Sacramento valley, and an equal distance in a direct line from the Pacific coast, llie locality is not
closely confined, though with high mountains — the Siskiou and Salmon ranges — on the south and east.
Position and altitude from Assistant Surgeon Crane, December, 1852.
Port Orford, Oregon. — At Port Orford, near ten miles southward from Cape Blanco or Orford. The locality is at the head
of a bay (Tichenor bay or Ewing Harbor) opening southward, and the exposure very direct to the Pacific.
Position from Assistant Surgeon Milhau, 1854. compared.
Fort Lanf., Oregon. — Near Jacksonville, Rogue river, in a large valley opening westward, with high mountain ranges in
the vicinity. Position from surveys of Oregon, through Assistant Surgeon Crane, 1854.
Astoria, Oregon.— At the town of Astoria, south bank of the Columbia river, near ten miles from the coast of the Pacific.
The locality has a free exposure over water surface and low plains to the sea, with rough hills at the
south and east. Position from United States Coast Survey, 1853.
Fort Vaxcoc-s-er, Columbia Barracks, Oregon.- On the north bank of the Columbia river, eighty miles in a direct line
from the Pacific at its mouth. The valley of the river opens northwestward here, and the coast range
of mountains protects it from sea exposure. The Barracks and old Fort Vancouver have been occupied
alternately ; the difference of position is unimportant. The plain is low and wide, with much water
surface in the vicinity. Position by Dr. Evans, survey of Oregon, 1852.
* Assistnut Surgeon Sorrel, Septumbcr. 1C5I.
508 GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS OF THE MILITARY POSTS.
FoBT Dalles, Obegon. — At the passage of the Columbia river through the eastern portions of the Cascade range of mount-
ains. The locality is on the south bank of the river, half a mile from it, and elevated about one hun-
dred feet. The exposure is over bare plateaux, with the Cascade ranjie protecting the district at the west.
Position from Assistant Surgeon Summers. Altitude from Lieutenant Saxtou, (of the North Pacific rail-
road survey,) 1854.
FoKT Steilacoou, Washington Tiuiritorv. — At Steilacoom, the southern extremity of Puget's sound. Tlie locality is one
mile east from the shore of the sound, with open plains and much water surface in the vicinity. The
Cascade and coast ranges of mountains enclose the area of the sound and plains. Position from the
survey of Oregon, 1852.
Cantorment Lorixo, Oregon. — Near Fort Hall, upper portion of Lewis' Fork of Columbia. The post is about etiuidistant
from Great Salt Lake and the South Pass, north and west respectively. The locality is on tlie east bank
of the river, live miles above Fort Hall, in a low valley three to five miles wide. The principal mount-
ains are too far distant to affect the position locally. Position and altitude derived from those of Fort
Hall, by Fremont, 1843.
Gbsat Salt Lake, Utah. — On a plain near ten miles south of the lake. A chain of mountains is quite near at the east,
but in other directions the exposure is open and free. Position by Captain Stansbury, Topographical
Engineers, 1850. Altitude from five months' barometric observations by Lieutenant Beekmth, United
States army, 1854.
Note — Valuable informaiion respecting the local features of several posts in the least known portions of Texas and New Mexico has been com-
municated by Assistant Surgeon White.
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES
TEMPERATURE SERIES.
In the following tables the mean results of the observations of temperature are given for each
month, season, and year during the entire period of observation at each post, with a summary for the
whole period. A part only of the records from 1822 to 1830 was published in the first preparation
of result.s ; and in the second, incomplete years, and observations not continuous for a series of years,
were also omitted. The series as now given embrace all the unpublished as well as published records
of the Army Medical Bureau, from the complete organization of the system of meteorological obser-
vations in 1822 to the close of 1854, a period of thirty-three years.
FORT KENT, MAINE.
Latitude 47" 15' N., Longitude 68° 35' W. Altitude above sea 515 feet.
FORT FAIRFIELD, MAINE.
Latitude 46° 46', Longitude 67° 49'. Altitude 415 feet.
HANCOCK BARRACKS, MAINE.
Latitude 46° 07', Longitude 67° 49'. Altitude 620/ee^.
Jan.
Feb.
Mar.
April.
May.
1
June.
July.
August.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov. '
Dec.
Spring.
!
Summer Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1842 ..
6.64
14.04
25.11
33.59
45.15
57.20
64.68
64.05
49.70
40.34
29.35
12.02
34 62
61.96 1 39.80
10.90
36.82
1843....
19.21
8.53
34.54
40.00
50.96
62.10
64.47
68.70
38.50
65.09
1844....
46.84
59.19
59.08
59.68
53.47
39.82
26.59
10.70
59.65 39.96
1845....
7.44
12.31
20.94
32.26
44.49
57.49
61.73
61.78
32.56
60.33
Mean...
11.10
11.63
23.53
35.28
46.86
58.99
62.49
63.55
51.59
40.08
27.97
11.36
35.22
61.68 39.88
11. .36
37.04
1842....
1843....
11.43
19.90
17.14
10.17
26.41
23.18
34.04
38.40
1
46.66 ,
49.03 :
56.15
57.96
65.40
60 16
65.07
64.74
49.93
40.92
30.05
13.53
35.70
36.87
62.21
60.95
40.30
14.03 !
38.06
Mi'an...
15.66
13.66
24.80
36.22
47.84
57.06
62.78
64.90
49.93
40.92
30.05
1
13.53
36.29
61 58
40.30
14.28
1
38.11
1829....
11.86
15.15
25.32
41.31
56.44
61.70
60.08
62.46
•19.29
42.19
26.94
25.77
41.02
61.41
39.47
17.59
39.87
1830....
6.95
13.54
S7.92
46.18
52.46
60.80
68.12
64.40
53.9'.
47. -19
38.65
27.19
42.19
64.44
46.70
15.89
42.30
1831....
12.51
19.19
31.31
38.23
56.71
66.16
68.73
67.70
57.44
46.28
36.07
8.64
42.08
67.53
46.59
13.44
42.41
1833....
17.41
12.68
27.57
33 06
49.49
55.60
62.16
66.33
57.44
46.36
31.46
15.41
36.70
61.37
45.09
15.17
39.58
1833....
14.14
11.69
23.56
39.77
53.72
55.30
63.66
61.24
52.88
45.65
31.26
24.62
39.02
60.73
42.26
16.82
37.46
183-1....
10.12
23.89
27.20
42.55
•17.67
59.69
68.48
63.45
59.41
41.94
30.67
11.24
39.14
63.85
44.01
15.08
40.53
1833....
16 70
13.72
23.28
37.07
47.18
59.79
64.99
6-3.93
53.23
48.03
27.97
9.74
35 84
62.57
43.08
13.39
38.73
18:«....
16.41
U 51
28.37
37.65
49.23
6J,73
67.r,
6-J.6-J
55.18
38.10
30.10
17.19
38.42
64.23
41.13
l.i.04
39.70
510
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
HANCOCK BARRACKS, MAINE— Continued.
Latitude 46° 07', Longitude 6Y° 49'. Altitude midfeet.
■
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1837....
16.09
16.37
27.03
39.42
49.98
60.79
63.24
63.09
56.85
41.20
29.10
17.96
38.81
62.37
42.38
16.81
40.09
1838....
90.60
13.63
34.76
36.93
50.62
67.02
68.27
63.49
56.44
41.13
27.59
14.28
40.74
66.26
41.72
16.17
41.23
1839....
16.66
19.41
27.43
42.92
48.43
57. K>
67.01
65.89
ii6.r)2
45.14
31.16
25.48
39.59
63.58
44.27
20.52
41.99
1840....
9.81
23.66
28.77
41.39
52.46
61.04
67.84
68.10
56.16
43.50
31.96
15.97
40.87
65.86
43.87
16.48
42.02
1841.. .
91.52
15.83
26.87
34.88
48.67
57.09
64.86
67.70
59.48
39.13
32.77
23.32
38.81
63.22
43.79
20.22
41.01
18'12...
15.17
20.84
30.91
38.18
46.93
58.76
65.79
66.24
52.82
43.98
31.39
14.90
38.67
62.04
42.73
17 04
40.12
1843....
22.44
12.72
25 98
41.47
50.75
59.38
62.00
64.75
51.50
41.00
27.66
20.75
39.40
62.04
40.05
18.64
40.03
1844....
6.45
18.07
25.62
41.63
48.90
60.37
60.66
61.75
r>5.48
42.74
28.72
17.50
38.72
60.93
42.31
14.01
38.99
1845....
15.39
16.89
26.82
37.47
48.77
60.01
62.99
64.82
37.69
62.58
Mean ;
17 y'rs J
14.72
16.40
27.57
39.42
50.47
60.28
65.18
64.. M
55.25
43.37
30.84
18.12
39.15
63.33
43.15
16.41
40.51
FORT SULLIVAN, MAINE.
Latitude 44° 54', Longitude 66° 58'. Altitude 110 feet.
1822....
17.86
22.98
32.60
37.17
50.49
57.99
62.34
62.24
55.48
46.68
37.03
24.64
40.09
60.86
47.39
21.83
42.54
1823....
21.02
17.30
28.91
39.02
47.61
54.73
62.67
62.22
54.97
47.36
31.65
28.30
38.51
59.87
44.66
22.91
41.31
1834....
20.91
21.11
29.30
40.38
46.07
55.85
63.52
62.97
56.69
45.33
34.28
27.67
38.58
eo..^
45.43
23.23
41.95
1825....
21.18
22.35
32.92
42.29
50.14
60 97
67.33
64.83
56.57
47.81
37.94
28.33
41.78
64.38
47.44
23.95
44.39
1826....
23.17
22.72
31.17
39.61
53.96
60.07
66.90
67.53
59.70
48.71
38.24
27.83
41.58
64.83
48.88
24.57
44.96
1827....
20.48
23.07
32.00
43.54
51.54
59.21
66.17
61.94
60.81
51.12
42.36
63.44
1828....
22.44
29.61
31.62
37.52
50.08
57.47
61.50
65.00
58.42
47.19
38.53
26.18
39.74
61.31
48.05
26.08
43.79
1829....
19.57
21.29
99 32
40.93
51.79
58.01
61.08
61.49
53.24
45.89
37.35
31.67
40.68
60.19
45.49
24.28
42.66
1830....
18.17
19.42
31.05
44.08
49.69
57.07
63.63
61.76
54.37
48.61
41.92
32.37
41.61
60.82
48.30
23.32
43.51
1831....
19.87
24.57
35.45
42.81
55.83
60.27
67.48
66.58
58.96
48.97
39.93
14.77
44.69
64.78
49.29
19.80
44.64
1832....
25.78
20.35
98.52
35.88
49.25
54.36
57.53
69.11
55.07
48.08
36.43
23.37
37.88
58.00
46.86
23.17
41.48
1833....
23.18
90.19
29.23
41.95
50.27
54.68
62.09
60.50
58.28
48.51
36.46
29.90
40.48
59.09
47.75
24.42
49.93
1834....
19.48
29.99
33.21
43.32
47.77
58.29
62.71
61.04
58.64
46.00
36.96
20.42
41.43
60.68
47.20
93.30
43.17
1835....
24.34
22.20
29.40
38.11
49.09
55.38
60.50
59.67
57.02
50.45
36.22
17.28
38.20
58. K
47.90
21.27
41.43
1836....
21.49
IT. 99
27.73
37.74
45.47
55.13
36.98
1841....
30.13
23.97
31.34
36.30
45.05
56.68
60.82
62.10
60.36
44.25
36.42
28.85
37.56
59.87
47.01
27.65
43.02
1642 ...
23.95
97.96
^.75
39.77
47.77
53.15
63.69
61.41
54.91
45.45
36.10
22.88
40.09
59.41
45.49
24.93
42.48
1843....
29.07
20.30
27.40
40.48
49.26
.57.08
61.28
61.18
66.48
47.72
35.38
27.56
39.05
59.85
46.53
25.64
42.77
1844....
16.17
25.61
33.40
45.48
50.33
53.01
59.19
60.57
58.75
49.08
36.89
27.16
43.07
59.26
48.24
22.98
43.39
1845....
23.63
2-1 11
31.45
40.78
47.07
57.45
60.24
63.24
39.77
60.31
1849....
61.38
62.36
57.62
47.80
43.54
23.28
49.65
1850....
93.88
27.17
27.29
40.87
46.55
55.95
61.69
61.51
57.80
50.45
39.71
23.96
38.24
59.72
49.32
25.00
43.07
1851....
21.52
26.48
31.68
41.77
48.18
54.31
59.68
61.55
57.68
51.88
35.21
ffi.41
40.54
58.51
48.26
23.47
42.69
1852....
^.16
26.93
30.38
40.25
49.51
54.00
61.08
60.76
57.72
47.59
38.28
32.85
40.05
56.61
47.86
27.31
43.46
1853....
27.51
27 31
30.92
40.65
48.83
56.12
61.64
61.20
40.13
59.62
Mean }
25 y'rs J
22.37
23.54
30.79
40.44
49.23
56.76
62.33
62.42
57.25
47.95
37.35
25.79
40.15
60.50
47.52
23.90
43.02
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
511
FORT PREBLE, MAINE.
Latitude 43" 39', Longitude 70° 20'. Altitude Id feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
TVinter.
Year.
1824....
24.82
24.42
33.92
43.96
51.51
62.87
68.66
66.76
60.79
48.54
34.98
29 25
43.13
66.10
48.08
26.16
45.87
1835....
22.59
24.63
35.62
46.56
53.47
68.00
73.56
68.05
58.65
49.97
88.05
28.26
45.22
69.87
48.89
25.16
47.28
1826....
21.52
24.51
34.76
41.41
59.46
65.32
72.33
68.67
61.34
50.43
37.05
28.14
45.21
68.77
49.61
24.72
47.05
1827....
19.65
24.56
33.92
46.74
54.26
62.91
70.06
66.74
61.52
50.53
32.54
27.74
44.97
66 57
48.20
23.98
45.93
1828....
27.02
33.76
34.83
43.02
52.86
67.31
70.85
70.66
62.18
49.10
39.13
32.43
43.57
69.61
50.14
24.59
46.98
1829....
20.69
20.64
30.84
44.06
56.81
64.53
68.06
66.45
55.09
48 21
37.20
32.73
43.90
66 35
46.83
24.69
44.94
1830....
19.93
20.60
34.04
47.96
54.04
62.42
69.87
66.88
57.88
50.30
44.53
32.41
45.35
66.39
50.90
24.38
46.75
1831....
21.06
24.47
35.45
46.02
56.76
68.85
71.53
70.48
61.44
50.84
39.22
15.14
46.08
70.29
50.50
20. K
46.77
1832....
23.41
22.14
32.96
63.80
66.30
60.00
51.51
39.35
26.97
50.29
24.17
1833....
26.75
21.64
29.50
44.77
56.20
60.25
69.15
65.15
58.98
48.28
36.50
26.96
43.49
64.85
47.92
25.78
45.51
1834....
20.36
29.85
33.83
45.14
51.58
62.81
71.40
67.67
61.47
47.39
36.29
24.33
43.52
67.39
48.38
24.85
46.01
1835....
23.96
21.24
30.50
40.93
53,08
63.26
68.91
66.08
57.64
51.17
37.04
19.79
41 50
66.08
48.62
21.66
44.46
1841....
27.13
21.89
30.19
38.39
48.49
60.87
64.39
64.22
59.94
43.65
36.26
28.84
39.02
63.16
46.62
25.95
43.69
1842....
25.76
30.04
35.97
41.89
48.39
57.67
67.02
63.01
55.89
47.81
35.26
24.47
42.18
62.57
46.32
26.76
44.46
1843....
29.06
26.89
40.68
49.73
58.36
62.89
65.38
56.40
46.73
34.38
29.09
39.10
62.21
45.84
1844....
14.36
21.82
31.03
43.00
51.25
60.75
63.00
62.75
58.00
47.25
35.90
26.25
41.76
62.17
47.05
20.81
42.95
1845....
23.67
22.50
30.97
40.70
51.85
62.27
65.52
66.17
56.57
41.17
64.65
1849....
68. !«
69.69
69.52
63.20
53.50
50.79
26. 14
69.38
41.87
1850....
24.69
27.41
31.77
40.25
49.47
62.26
66.65
64.86
58.40
50.27
40.02
22.40 >
40.50
64.59
49.56
24.83
44.87
1851....
20.01
25.28
33.30
42.60
51 61
58.71
66.59
65.19
60.00
51.56
35.09
20.56
42.50
63.50
48.88
21.95
44.21
1852....
18.43
23.04
29.41
39.10
51.96
63.71
68.33
64.70
59.11
48.16
36.38
32.00
40.16
65.58
47.88
24.49
44.53
1853....
23.25
25.84
33.41
42.02
53.66
63.24
68.12
65.34
43.03
65.57
Mean )
22 y'rs j
iH.78
24.52
32.53
42.96
52.82
63. U
68.20
66.41
56.91
49.76
37.80
26.80
42.77
65.24
48.16
24.70
45.22
FORT CONSTITUTION,
Latit^ide 43° 04', Longitude
NEW HAMPSHIRE.
10° 49'. Altitude 20 feet.
1824....
27.83
36.25
34.84
1825....
27.13
28.50
37.60
46.54
153.59
65.59
71.32
64.90
59.23
51.38
39.41
•■fi.ge
45.91
67.27
50.00
29.53
48.18
1826....
28.84
31.79
36.31
43.05
58.65
62.71
68.54
67.61
61 88
51.73
40.50
30.21
46.00
66.29
51.37
30.28
48.48
1827....
21.31
26.88
35.52
47.63
53.61
61.75
67.64
65.16
60.44
31. 40
33.87
29.42
45.59
64.85
48.57
S3. 87
46.33
1828....
29.37
35.47
36.14
42.91
59.25
64.0,')
69.16
68.36
62.24
50.40
41,85
35.01
46 10
67.19
51.50
33.28
49.52
1829....
24.38
22.79
31.29
43.86
56.11
62.64
65.65
65.00
55.72
48.54
39.52
36.48
43.75
64.43
47,93
27.88
46.00
1830....
22.92
23.28
35.43
46.84
53.15
62.76
69.12
66 36
57.95
51.38
46.04
33.40
45.15
66.08
51.79
26.53
47.39
1831....
21.78
25.28
39.50
45.64
55.03
66.58
68.86
68.52
60.06
51,71
40.74
17.07
46.72
67.99
50.84
21.37
46.73
1832....
25.69
25.65
23.48
34.76
40.12
50.42
59.65
63.31
64.62
57.36
51.30
40.77
29.36
41.76
62.53
49.81
27.34
45.36
1833....
28 66
30.69
44.96
55.11
59.41
66.77
63.43
58 81
48.73
37.49
31.13
43.59
63.20
48.34
27.42
45.64
1634....
20.10
31.98
34.49
44.13
51.07
60.32
68.14
64.62
60.91
47.39
39.21
27.21
43.23
64.36
49.17
26.43
45.80
1835....
26.29
24.22
31.54
41.83
52.59
61.35
65.97
63 32
56.61
,tO,77
38.65
22 52
41.99
63.55
48.78
34.34
44.66
iKie....
25.41
19.69
30.17
39.67
50.70
55.76
65.73
60.48
57.11
44, lO
36.63
28.47
40.18
60.66
46.08
24.52
42.86
1837....
21.80
24.14
30.25
41.45
48.24
59.12
62.34
61.20
55.41
47.30
37.94
29.12
39,98
60 89
46.88
23.03
43.19
1838....
31.83
19.20
34.64
38.71
49 99
63 13
68.10
64.51
56 05
46.67
34.51
25.05
41,11
65.25
46.41
25.56
44.58
1839....
25.89
27.66
32.72
43.62
50.62
57.77
65.33
64.09
."^9.06
.=.0.62
37.34
31.66
42.32
62.40
49.01
28.40
45.53
1840....
18.65
31.98
33.70
4,'i.70
d;).13
61.75
66.58
6.1.09
58.06
....
14.18
64.47
1841....
50.42
40.00
32.51
512
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT CONSTITUTION, NEW HAMPSHIRE -Continued.
Latitude 43° 04', Longitude 70° 49'. Altitude 2Qfeet.
Jan.
Feb.
Marcl).
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
62.65
Autumn
Winter
Year.
1842....
26.38
30.71
37.19
42.26
50.61
57.46
65.61
64.87
57.33
48.74
37.66
25.09
43.35
47.91
28.06
45.49
1843....
31.69
19.55
26.58
43.81
55.25
64.30
68.45
69.80
62.13
47.69
35.71
28.83
41.88
67.52
48.51
26.69
46.15
1844....
17.85
25.32
34.17
45.40
53.39
61.91
64.56
63.79
59.73
48.68
38.26
29.46
44.32
63.42
48.89
34.21
45.21
1845....
36.00
24.99
33.86
42.01
53.99
61.28
67.66
66.80
42.95
65.31
Iti49....
68.74
68.78
61.28
48.91
44.70
26.28
51.63
1850....
35.39
28.57
32.05
40.66
49.51
64.33
67.20
65.41
58.48
50.02
40.69
23.91
40.74
65.65
49.73
25.96
45.52
1851....
2s.ea
27.33
34.98
42.09
52.37
60.91
67.70
65.49
58.65
51.33
34.22
20.62
43.11
64.70
48.06
23.59
44.87
1852....
19.76
25.02
31.21
39.00
53.95
64.20
67.37
63.95
58.90
48.23
35.76
^.13
41.42
65.14
47.63
25.64
44.96
1853....
24.20
25.54
K.92
39.17
52.84
64.56
67.45
60.53
59.46
41.64
64.18
Mean )
SSSy'raj
24.95
26.21
33.71
42.96
53.00
60.97
67.10
65.07
58. K
49.47
38.75
28.63
43.22
64.38
49.05
26.60
45.81
FORT INDEPENDENCE, BOSTON HARBOR,
Latitude 42° 20', Longitude 71° 00'.
MASSACHUSETTS.
Altitude 50 feet.
1824....
29.63
28.40
35.33
46.16
55.98
64.57
71.07
67.78
63.46
52.89
40.02
•M.ia
45.79
67.81
52.12
30.75
49.12
1825 ...
28.73
30.45
40.14
48.76
57.31
68.66
75.20
71.54
62.26
54.44
42.66
32.61
48.74
71.87
53.12
30.60
51.08
1826....
29.40
30.58
36.38
43.28
62.02
65.97
71.01
69.27
63.80
54.05
41.64
32.92
47.23
68.75
53.16
30.97
50.03
1827....
21.76
27.98
37.26
49.01
56.15
63.67
70.20
68.52
63 59
53.70
37.22
47.47
67.46
51.50
1828....
31.48
36.14
38.06
43.44
55.62
67.06
70.71
71.21
64.26
53.18
44.15
36.75
45.71
69.66
53.86
34.96
51.05
1829....
26.58
22.89
30.46
46.09
57.55
66.56
67.53
39.20
52.47
42.67
39.56
44.70
51.45
29.68
1830....
27.39
26.46
38.39
49.71
58.06
66.14
71.32
69.48
61.84
55.68
48.80
36.97
48.72
68.98
55.44
30.27
50.85
1831....
25.08
26.62
42.40
49.48
59.17
70.55
68.86
71.55
64.12
55.70
42.33
20.26
50.35
70.32
54.05
23.98
49.67
1832....
29.12
29.17
37.46
42.39
52.60
64.07
67.75
69.24
62.17
54.66
44.75
32.47
44.15
67.02
53.86
30.25
48.83
1633....
31.61
26.50
33 86
49.90
59.95
64.10
70.77
68.47
63.05
47.90
67.78
1634....
24.55
33.90
36.59
45.55
53.23
63.26
73.32
68.30
62.78
50.02
39.18
27.79
45.12
68.29
50.66
26.75
48.20
1835....
26.23
23.33
31.53
42.09
54.02
66.02
42.55
1836....
25.88
19.16
30.81
43.98
59 27
61.96
72.11
67.33
61.70
47.10
36.84
29.91
44.69
67.13
48.55
24.98
46.34
1837. ..
21.95
25.07
30.76
1851....
56.32
64.32
71.11
69.02
61.72
53 64
36.92
23.87
68.15
50.76
1852....
23.19
28.50
32.98
41.26
56.51
65.22
72.09
66.75
62.91
51.81
39.75
36.58
43.58
68-02
51.49
29.42
48.13
1853....
27.98
30.33
37.58
45.67
57.15
67.57
71.17
69.98
63.98
50.72
41.93
28.67
46.80
69.58
52.21
29.00
49.40
1854....
25.52
25.00
32.92
43 41
58.76
65.91
74.07
69.70
63.71
55.29
44.27
26.95
44.70
69.89
54.42
25.82
48.71
Mean (
17y'rsi
26.83
27.67
35.46
45.57
57.04
65.57
71.08
69.10
62.78
53.02
41.54
31.39
46.02
«8.58
52.45
28.63
48.»2
WATERTOWN ARSENAL, MASSACHUSETTS.
Latitude 42° 21', Longitude 11° 09'.
1837....
21.51
25.92
31.52
44.20
53.70
63.68
67.69
65.16
59.15
49.09
40.07
29.36
43.07
65.51
49.64
25.59
45.91
1838....
32.96
19.01
35.64 i
41.30
54.57
68.21
74.04
69.98
62.25
47.53
35.72
26.71
43.83
70.74
48.50
26.22
47.35
1839 ...
27.24
28.05
36.41
47.92
55.56
61.34
71.79
69.00
63.25
52.49
37.58
30.57
46.63
67.37
51.10
28.62
48.43
1840....
19.18
33.45
37.09
47.66
56.75
66.16
72.56
71.15
60.82
51.38
38.78
27.18
47.17
69.95
50. K
26.60
48.51
1841....
30.82
26.40
35.28
69.08
69.04
K.68
44.86
37.60
31.48
48.38
29.57
1843....
31.69
19.55
26.58
43.61
55.25
64.30
68.45
69.80
62.13
47.69
35.71
28.83
41.88
67.52
48.51
26.69
46.15
Mean )
6 y'rs f
27.23
25.40
33.75
44.98
55.17
64.74
70.60
69.02
61.71
48.84
37.58
29 02
44.63
68.12
49.38
27.22
47.34
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMAEIES.
513
FORT ADAMS, RHODE ISLAND.
Latitude 41° 29', Longitude 71° 20'. Altitude iOfeet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
1
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1842....
32.36
35.43
40.25
46.02
S5.20
64.60
73.11
71.59
63.13
52.24
38.06
30.92
47.15
69.76
51.14
32.90
S0.23
1843....
34.40
24.45
29.80
45.16
^.42
63.28
73.S
72.87
64.69
51.30
37.13
33.31
43.46
70.46
51.01
30.72
48.66
1844....
23.79
29.02
35.62
47.69
57.56
66.80
71.00
71.11
63.48
53.63
42.73
34.20
46.96
69.64
53.28
29.00
49.72
1845....
32.49
28.91
37.75
44.92
53.55
64.36
71.83
72.22
62.84
53.87
46.67
29.28
45.41
69.47
48.35
30.93
48.36
1846....
30.67
25.70
38.35
45.83
54.-52
63.37
70.55
69.94
65.27
45.57
67.95
1848....
53.01
41.00
39.06
1849....
26.01
24.82
38.15
44.90
53.19
67.04
71.49
71.84
63.50
59.94
50.38
34.56
43.41
70.12
55.61
28.46
49.90
1650....
33.34
M.D7
35.40
42.74
53.04
65.04
72.63
70.03
63.64
55.49
45.98
32.72
43.73
69.25
53.04
33.38
50.35
1851....
33.03
34.55
38.56
46.33
55. 8i
64.50
71.71
69.13
63.40
56.79
41.10
28.38
46.90
68.44
53.76
31.99
50.97
1652....
26.49
30 03
35.26
42.15
55.15
65.72
72.33
69.35
63.76
54.62
42.72
40.56
44.19
69.13
33.70
32.36
49.84
1853....
30.85
33.20
38.34
45.34
56.36
67.48
72.87
70.84
64.65
46.68
70.40
^■a ■■•
Mean )
lOy'rsj
30.34
30.02
36.55
43.11
54.98
65.43
72.07
70.89
64.07
53.76
42.86
30.30
45.55
69.46
53.56
30.23
49.70
FORT WOLCOTl', NEWPORT
Latitude 41° 30', Longitude
HARBOR, RHODE IbL.\ND.
71° 20'. Altitude IQfeet.
1822....
26.54
31.82
38.44
47.45
59.93
67.27
74.35
70.80
68.58
55.83
47.95
34.47
48.61
70.81
57.43
30.94
51.95
1823....
27.23
26.50
36.39
45.80
54.77
64.47
70.85
71.08
62.61
52.49
39.84
35.80
45.65
68.80
51.65
29.84
48.99
1824....
33.54
32.14
37.61
47.86
55.15
63.69
71.46
68.96
64.19
54.60
42.71
37.16
46.87
68.70
53.83
.34.28
50.92
1825....
31.51
32.99
40.86
47.96
56.61
69.12
74.63
71.41
63.16
56.08
44.63
34.97
48.48
71.72
54.62
33.16
51.99
1826....
33.16
33.63
38.98
44.03
59.58
64.24
79.33
71.26
65.82
55.66
43.43
34.62
47.53
69.98
41.24
37.13
48.79
1827....
25.05
31.28
38.30
48.42
55.59
64.59
71.16
69.61
63.70
56.06
37.70
36.35
47.44
68.43
52.49
30.89
49.81
1828....
33.95
38.68
40.10
44.93
56.36
67.43
71.47
72.70
65.93
34.23
45.77
38.40
47.13
70.54
53.31
37.34
59.08
ltH9....
98.90
94.97
39.88
44.67
55.83
63.93
65.52
67.57
58.39
50.66
42.72
39.37
44.46
65.77
50.59
31.08
47.98
1830....
29.47
27.52
37.90
46.53
55.03
63.84
70.35
68.24
60.74
54.42
46.02
37.59
46.49
67.48
53.73
31.53
49.81
1831 ....
25.04
26.66
39.68
47.44
56.75
67.43
69.95
71.62
64.23
35.88
42.75
22.71
47.96
69.67
54.29
94.80
49.18
18K....
29.27
30.23
36 30
40.89
50.56
59.67
65.78
68.24
61.70
53.69
44.43
34.22
42.58
64.56
53.27
31.58
46.00
1833....
33.20
28.29
33.94
46.55
56.57
61.13
67.76
66.36
61.60
52.90
40.36
34.39
45.69
65.08
51.62
31.96
48.59
1834....
26.79
34.90
37.23
*46.26
52.01
61.79
69.85
67.98
64.02
50.66
40.48
31.57
45.17
66.54
31.72
31.09
46.63
1835....
29.24
27.13
32.69
41.44
53.82
63.43
69.31
68.40
60.43
57.04
43.64
28.41
42.65
67.05
53.70
98.96
47.91
Mean
14y'rs
29.34
30.56
37.31
45.73
55.61
65.23
70.41
69.59
63.22
54.30
43.03
34.99
46.22
68.41
S3.S2
34.73
50.72
FORT TRUMBULL, CONNECTICUT.
Latitude 41° 21', Longitude 12° 06'. Altitude 23/eef.
1833....
53.49
61.94
65.90
72.38
69.79
65.10
54.82
1834....
27.11
36.14
38 37
50.16
57.37
66.85
75.80
71.67
65.49
48.78
1835....
97.79
26.68
34.12
44.61
57.93
68.83
73.33
70.93
59.43
36.10
1843....
32.59
19.97
23.85
44.68
53.88
63.63
67.67
69.03
63.21
49.01
1844....
20.92
27.23
35.28
48.80
57.00
63.95
68.44
68.40
61.47
50.18
1845....
31.44
28.77
37.94
45.06
54.00
65.16
70.93
71.35
62.56
34.36
43.76
38.66
43.36
36.81
39.59
46.39
33.98
69.12
S4.S6
29.90
48.63
71.44
50.93
26.96
45.55
71.04
52.96
31.25
41.47
66.78
49.68
29.20
47.03
66.93
50.41
27.93
45.67
68.91
54.44
31.03
97.14
27.94
25.78
99.38
S0.S9
49.17
46.47
47.54
S. 9B-
-65
614
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT TRUMBULL, CONNECTICUT— Continued.
Latitude 41° 21', Longitude 72° 06'. Altitude 23 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn Winter.
Year.
1846....
30.19
25.62
38.81
48.10
55.62
47.31
1849....
52.32
66.04
71.47
71.14
62.82
S2.02
48.97
33.18
69.55
54.60
1850....
33.31
33.90
36.10
43.32
53.69
67.18
72.69
69.27
62. T7
54.78
44.82
31.52
44.37
69.71
54.12
32.91
50.28
1851....
32.22
33.15
39.28
47.30
56.2S
65.40
72.08
68.91
63.67
55.07
39.88
27.69
47.61
68.79
52.87
31.02
50.07
1852....
25.85
30.S3
35.90
43.12
57.63
66.88
79.34
69.15
63.37
34.63
41.20
39.45
45.55
69.45
53.07
31.94
50.00
1853....
S9.60
33.59
39.25
46.68
58.01
68.23
71.74
71.32
66.15
47.98
70.43
Mean >
lly'rs j
29.10
29..W
36.09
46.85
56.30
66.12
71.56
70.12
63.27
52.97
42.34
31.11
46.41
69.27
52.86
29.92
49.62
FORT COLUMBUS, NEW YORK HARBOR.
Latitude 40° 42', Longitude 74° 01'. Altitude 23 feet.
1822....
26.17
29.82
42.15
52.35
63.35
70.64
78.. 39
74.65
70.88
59.10
48.38
34.53
52.62
74.36
39.43
30.17
54.20
1823....
31.21
25.29
38.38
49.60
58.88
68.95
74.96
73.43
64.09
51.75 1 38.23
34 74
48.28
72.11
51.36
30.41
50.54
1824....
35.29
31.28
37.57
49.94
1 58.02
68.26
73.62
70.37
64.15
55.08
! 42.71
38.51
48.51
70.73
53.98
35.03
52.07
1825....
K.74
32.63
43.71
51.35
j 62.5)
74.58
81.29
73.99
67.42
57.11
43.90
31.70
1 52.32
76.62
56.21
32 36
54.43
1826....
28.89
31.31
37.67
43.27
64.88
69.77
73.94
73.90
68 83
36.53
43.66
33.14
' 48.61
73.87
56.35
31.11
!i2.48
1827....
24.02
31.95
39.34
52.06
59.34
68.60
75.63
74.34
67.05
55.90
39.66
33.21
30.31
72.86
54.20
29.73
51.77
1828....
33.59
41.32
40.75
45.27
60.07
72.26
74.67
76.50
66.79
53.39
44.94
38.67
48.70
74.48
55.04
37.86
54.02
1839....
27.05
25.44
37.t8
52.27
63.85
71.14
73.73
75.00
64.14
34 85
43.87
41.30
51.33
73.29
34.29
31.26
52 54
1830. ..
31.74
31.93
41.05
52.88
60.34
70.45
78.75
77.04
67.11
38.67
51.08
36.96
51.42
75.41
58.93
33.54
34.83
1831....
25.73
26.28
41.98
49.96
61.17
74.08
76.41
76.38
66.68
53.44
43.27
22.20
, 51.04
1
75.62
55.20
24.74
51.65
18K....
28.51
32.28
38,98
48.30
56.11
67.14
73.32
73.26
65.40
34.06
44.72
36.45
47.80
71.24
54.73
32.41
51.54
1833....
33.08
30.91
35.86
51 34
60.73
60.13
74.72
70.37
64.83
52.19
41.48
34 38
49.34
70.47
32.84
33.52
31.34
1834....
28.28
37.21
39.64
48.49
56.34
66.75
76.19
71.85
64.22
51.64
40.99
30 76
48.22
71.60
52.28
32.08
51.04
1835....
29.37
27.22
35.59
45.80
58.44
67.12
72.30
69.78
60.69
56.46
43.81
28.36
46.61
69.80
53.65
28.32
49.59
1838....
27.82;
.21.51
33.21
44.32
38.01
62.28
73.01
67.92
63.97
45.86
38.66
31.18
44.83
67.74
49.50
28.17
47.56
1837....
26.36
29.85
34.91
46.03
55.29
64.32
69.51
68.64
62.18
32. «
44.03
35.60
45.22
67.55
52.84
30.60
49.05
1838....
34.49
23.29
37.81
44.16
56.16
70.39
77.18
74.71
63.38
51.66
40.02
29.09
46.04
74.09
52.35
28.95
50.35
1839.. .
30.48
31.93
38.64
49.81
57.76
63.40
72.97
70.85
66 72
56.31
39.93
35.62
48.74
69.07
54.32
32.68
51.20
1840....
23.80
34.85
40.26
51.47
58.02
67.05
72.30
73.32
63.96
55.17
43.38
30.36
49.92
70.89
54.24
29.67
51.18
1841....
30.84
28.12
37.40
45.98
66.49
69.11
73 93
73.40
68.58
51.86
44.68
33.82
46. 6e
72.15
55.11
30.93
51.20
1842....
33.72
38.14
44.59
51.53
58.46
67.19
74.38
72.91
67.14
51.73
39.21
32.12
31.53
71.49
36.03
34.66
53.43
1843....
36.47
25.66
30.31
47.28
39.08
71.25
74.11
74.27
68.03
33.69
40.50
36.12
45.59
73.21
54.07
32.75
51.40
1844....
25.76
29.74
38.79
53.35
63.29
69.22
74.54
72.93
65.79
53.52
43.33
33.97
51.88
72.23
34.21
29.82
52.03
1845....
35.03
31.95
42.12
50.79
60.54
71.30
76.60
76.04
63.49
55.31
45.68
28.27 1
31.13
74.63
55.49
31.73
53.26
1846....
31.37
27.41
39.31
30.33
60.41
67.36
72.21
73.25
69.71
54.00
48.13
33.90
50.02
70.94
57.29
30.89
52.28
1847....
32.40
31.60
36.01
49.50
39.51
70.84
75.61
72.30
64.73
31 40
46.04
37.90
48.34
72.92
54.06
33.97
32.32
1848....
33.79
31.21
36.14
50.10
61.38
69.11
74.28
73.34
63.44
54.15
39.74
39.29
49.87
72.31
52.44
34.76
52.34
1849....
25.78
24.68
37.84
47.55
55.00
69.30
72.80
72.33
64.31
52.64
48.19
32.07
46.80
71.34
33.05
27.51
50.22
1850....
32.78
33.42
36.16
, 44.08
54.45
68.63
73.06
71.04
64.32
53.78
45.19
33.23
44.90
71.24
54.43
33.14
50.93
1851....
32.15
33.68
39.71
49.13
38.24
68.45
75.64
74.00
67.86
57.32
42.24
27.39 i
49.02
72.69
53.80
31.07
32.13
1852....
24.33
30.74
36.72
43.73
60.30
69.70
76.61
73.27
63.77
53.61
41.64
40.45
46.92
73.19
53.67
31.84
51.40
1853....
32.08
33.50
39.58
48.13
60.25
71.20
72.77
73.52
66.41
32.01
44.31
33.13
49.32
72.50
54.24
32.90
32.24
1854....
28.71
28.17
36.17
45.09
59.96
68.49
75.89
72.88
66.33
55.71
43.67
27.52
47.07
72.42
55.24
28.13
50.71
Mean ?
33rrs!
30.18
30.44
38.28
48.65
39.30
68.30
74.63
73.16
63.78
54.19
43.32
33.52
48.76
72.10
34.43
31.38
51.67
Note.— The record for 1837 and 1838 was at Fort Wood, Bedloe's Island ; so near tliat it is incorporated in the mean for the series at Fort Columbus.
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
515
FORT HAMILTON, NEW YORK HARBOR.
Latitude 40'' 37', Longitude 74° 02'. Altitude 25 feet.
Jan.
P..
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
fy^e-
Sept.
Oct.
Not.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn' Winter.
Year.
1W3....
37.27
26.80
30.80
48.50
56.90
68.40
71.90
74.40
68.45
53.95
42.10
35.15
45.40
71.57
54.83
33.07
51 .S
1&44....
26.21)
29.82
38.04
51.51
61.50
66.87
71.39
71.82
66.07
53.10
43.42
34.00
50.35
70.03
54.20
30.04
51.15
1845....
34.55
31.91
41.61
49.59
58 33
68.73
74.48
75.42
65.97
57.24
47.18
28 .-97
49.84
ra.88
56.80
31.81
52.83
1846....
31.94
27.04
40.03
49.26
59 27
65.67
71.96
73.04
69.96
54.32
49.15
35.19
49.52
70.a
57.81
31.39
52.23
1847....
32.80
32.26
36.71
45.50
54.97
64.84
74.74
72.69
65.24
54.44
47.23
37.75
45.73
70.76
55.64
34.27
51.60
1848....
35.67
31.14
35.33
48.59
59.91
67.66
71.08
73.10
63.96
55.00
41.19
39.98
48.28
70.61
53.38
35.60
51.97
1849....
26.74
25.85
38.33
46.10
54.13
69.01
71.57
72.57
65.02
53.06
49.72
33.89
46.19
71.05
55.93
26.62
49.95
1850....
34.25
35.37
37.17
45.00
54.35
68.90
73.32
72.12
66.55
55.72
47.05
34.67
45.51
71.35
56.44
34.76
52.01
1851....
34.90
36.40
40.72
48.95
58.62
67.50
73.56
70.67
65.35
58.32
43.67
31.00
49.43
70.57
55.75
34.10
52.46
1852....
25.42
30.48
40.20
46.20
58.32
68.70
74 02
71.02
67.60
58.72
44.91
39.01
48.24
71.24
57.08
31.64
562.05
1853....
29.72
33.17
39.92
46.73
58.63
69.00
73.52
74.23
67.66
52.86
46.91
33.53
48.43
73 25
55.81
32.14
Sl.K
1854....
31.49
30.95
37.70
45.57
59.37
68.69
77.17
74.67
67.06
56.15
43.90
28.31
47.55
73.51
55.70
30.25
51.75
Mran )
12y'rs i
31.67
30.93
38.05
47.62
57.86
67.83
73.23
72.98
66.57
55.24
45.SS
34.28
47.84
71.35
55.79
32.29
51.82
WEST rOINT, NEW YORK.
Latitude 41° 23', Longitude 74° 00'. Altitude Wj/eet.
1824....
1K5....
1826...
1827....
1828....
1829....
1830 ...
1831....
1832....
1833....
1834....
1835....
1836....
1837....
1838....
1839....
1840....
1641....
1842...,
1843...,
1844...
1845...
1846..
1817...
1848...
1849...
K.08
31.55*
29.61
23.31
33.42
27.10
28.05
24.41
30.19
33.12
26.33
26.83
27.17
21.78
34.68
28.41
23.12
29.69
35.17
33.40
19.10
28.53
27.48
23.90
32.40
23.98
29.71
31.97*
a2.25
31.87
39.39
^.83
27.01
23.98
30.63
27.96
35.87
25.40
20.69
27.54
21.98
32.59
36.71
26.01
39.55
21.40
26.03
28.20
23 65
28.20
28.74
21.85
36.91
44.73«
39.11
40.58
41.77
34.80
40.07
42.50
40.33
35.32
39.60
36.40
32.23
32.61
38.62
40.76
41.13
36.16
46.65
26.77
36.00
39.62
37.33
32.45
34.36
37.34
51.70
47. 61*
46.41
54.66
47.72
49.72
54.19
51.84
48.24
54.47
51.24
46.73
45.69
45.45
42.55
53.80
50.83
45.84
54.25
47.20
53.04
48.06
50.00
45.19
48.. '>2
46.22
61.06
59. 34*
68.17
61.94
61.76
64 31
59.62
62.63
58.85
63.07
59.05
59.70
60.94
56.61
56.90
60.80
60.43
57.33
59.19
59.00
61.69
57.79
60.25
58.38
60.78
55.35
68.95
77.34'
71.90
75.11
69.30
72.98
73.85
75.41
69.66
72.50
69.13
75.69
74.85
73.77
66.24
71.70
66.93
72.50
67.44
76.82
67.92
74.27
65.56
73.41
67.16
71.60
71.92
77.81
65.43
73.68
67.30
74.16
71.90
73.90
67.10
74.76
71.00
74.96
67.42
71.37
69.06
74.36
67.32
72.25
64.83
75.35
68.46
71.15
67.47
71.90
75. 36* 64.11
73.74
ra.90
76.58
71.34
75.35
74 39
70.83
71.40
73.92
71.24
67.55
69.79
74.57
68.09
73.82
72.38
70.52
71.79
68.99
74.18
72.55
73.03
71.52
69.63
67.00
65.48
68.64
60.61
66.73
65.82
62.81
66.84
65.41
61.00
64.85
61.76
67.07
64.30
63.30
67.25
63.82
66.46
62.40
61.79
69.07
63.36
61.48
61.85
59.22*
58.11
56.06
54.45
55.99
53.16
48.82
56.87
55.48
53.45
51.62
59.00
47.35
51.31
54.27
56.37
53.61
45.99
57.04
48.81
49.81
52.60
51.26
50.48
51.17
50.46
42.29* 39.27- 49.89
44.34 33.76 : 50.56
i
32.02
34.95
39.97
40.15
37.33
26.17
34.50
33.80
30.31
25.91
29.19
31.23
29.05
E.92
29.13
35.24
31.31
30.23
30.06
24.12
30.74
35.77
36 20
43.93
37.90
45 03
41.71
49.91
44.73
45.45
40.94
40.^ I
43.21
39.23
42.13
40.43
39.68
43.53
39.02
43.20
36.41
39.27
43.32
45.26
44.45
37.41
47.60 I 31.45
51.23
52.39
50.42
49.61
51.29
52.32
49.14
50.95
49.96
47.61
46.29
44.89
46.02
51.79
50.80
46.44
53.36
44.32
50.24
48.49
49.19
45.34
47.8
46.30
73.88
55.21
33.69
32.43
73.58
55.66
31.29
71.73
52.61
30.04
75.28
56.55
37.59
71.17
51.63
30.03
73.39
55.15
34.13
74.34
55.81
24.85
69.59
54.58
31.77
70.27
53.74
31.63
72.76
52.62
30.84
71.14
54.40
36.05
68.84
50.48
25.68
69.52
51.73
26.65
74.77
53.92
28.57
69.07
53.45
31.31
71.76
53.48
29.65
72.73
50.75
30.31
70.79
54.69
35.34
72.58
50.56
28.34
69.26
50.49
SS.06
72.53
52.57
26.95
70.71
55.19
27.29
71.07
53.10
30.96
70.38
50.02
3178
69.67
53.30
25.76
53.17
52.91
51.69
54.96
50.66
53.49
51.83
51.24
51.65
51.54
49.80
47.82
48.25
50.82
51.40
51.42
50.06
53.54
48.95
48.76
50.13
50.59
50.12
S0.27
48.76
* E.xtreme hours in excess, or thermometor protected. " Thermometer removed from a largo to a small building " in June, 1825. The apparent defects of
position in the first two years of the record do not sensibly aflect the mean results.
516
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
WEST POINT. NEW YORK— Continued.
Latitude 41° 23', Longitude 74° 00'. Altitude 1&1 feet.
Jan.
Fell.
.Morel).
AprU.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn Winter.
Year.
1850....
30.75
32.75
35.46
44.62
53.49
63.49
73.03
68.69
61.67
51.91
42.87
29.37
44.53
68.40
53.15
30.96
49.01
1851....
29.45
K.ae
38.64
46.85
57.13
65.51
71.62
68.65
63.74
53.89
38.48
25.00
47.54
68.59
52.03
28.90
49.27
IKia....
21.57
28.69
33.38
42.49
58.40
68.30
72.90
67.75
61.78
53.56
39.98
36.46
44.75
69.65
51.77
28.91
48.77
1853....
26.28
29.70
38.60
48.83
50.88
69.14
70.80
71.39
64.76
50.59
44.38
30.44
49.10
70.44
53.24
28.81
50.40
1854...
28.00
27.40
36.35
45.91
60.57
68.06
75.59
79.75
64.25
53.69
42.39
25.50
47.61
72.13
53.44
36.97
50.04
Mean
31y'rs
28.38
28.80
37.63
48.70
59.83
68.41
73.75
71.83
64.31
53.04
42 S3
31.98
48.72
71.33
53.19
39.69
50.73
WATEKVLIET ARSENAL, NEW YORK.
Latitude 42° 43', Longitude 73° 43'. Altitude 50 .^ feet.
1S24....
25.87
25.47
32.47
48.43
59.04
68.03
73.61
71.24
66.00
54.01
40.56
34.34
46.65
70.96
53.52
28.56
49.92
18-23....
36.58
29.06
39.96
49.91
62.11
70.32
78.67
73.34
60.99
53.01
36.80
30.02
50.66
74.07
50.27
38.55
50.89
1826....
27.46
27.71
36.87
44.71
67.23
70.83
73.10
73.16
65.03
51.96
41.37
29.33
49.60
73.36
53.79
28.17
50.73
1827....
17.11
36.64
33.40
50.62
59.78
70. M
74.54
71.04
64.11
50.71
33.14
27.01
47.93
72.18
49.32
23.59
48.26
1K!8....
28.43
31.92
38.55
43.33
62.82
73.16
74.89
75.77
64.63
52.62
41.88
32.18
48.23
74.61
53.04
30.84
51.68
1829....
21.63
15.56
29.88
44.25
65.38
70.20
72.93
72.48
58.67
51.97
39.70
36.06
46.50
71.87
50.11
37.42
48.97
1830....
22.57
21.03
39.20
51.60
57.13
67.58
76.34
72.76
61.40
48.82
45.08
33.50
49.31
79.29
51.77
25.70
49.77
1831....
20.89
19.25
39.04
49.10
60.01
74.69
73.73
71.36
63.40
53.55
40.93
14.03
49.38
73.26
52.29
18.03
48.24
1832....
22.10
32.86
34.97
44.61
54.49
68.87
71.06
68.73
61.44
49.94
38.75
39.03
44.69
69.55
50.04
24.66
47.23
18.13....
44.97
55.97
60 77
73.77
69.32
63.65
48.08
35.75
28.78
67.96
48.83
1834....
20.59
32.84
34.98
49.95
57.30
68.00
77.66
73.24
61.51
46.15
38.45
24.43
47.41
72.97
49.70
25.95
49.01
1835....
19.60
30.25
31.85
43.99
58.84
67.90
72.26
68.83
59.34
5J.58
37.35
19.36
44.93
69.66
49.76
19.74
46.03
1836....
21.94
14.01
26.80
42.39
58.91
66.. •«
72.46
65.06
61.83
41.95
35.32
24.93
42.67
67.97
46.37
20.29
44.32
1837....
15.18
23.03
29.07
42.58
54.99
65.44
70.37
69.03
58.67
49.11
41.36
26.84
42.31
68.61
49.71
21.68
45.55
1838....
28.71
14.66
34.84
37.19
57.49
70.91
75.90
72.15
62.95
48.53
36.67
21.12
43.17
72.99
49.33
21.50
46.78
1839....
31.93
35.42
31.92
49.34
58.24
63.49
73.42
70.40
62.44
51.62
36.37
28.81
46.50
69.10
50.14
25.38
47.78
1840....
15.01
31.20
35.51
49.89
61.26
66.46
73.67
71.10
59.43
50.30
33.15
36.85
43.89
70.41
49.29
34.35
48.33
1841....
28 22
32.53
33.39
41.22
56.83
70.18
•m.si
71.90
67.34
45.54
38.40
29.55
43.48
71.53
50.43
26.77
48.05
1842....
30.31
36.28
41 99
53.14
57.89
66.43
79.69
69.69
58.10
46.38
34.70
23.22
51.01
69.60
46.39
39.94
49.23
1843....
29.00
15.30
35.19
42.70
59.42
66.15
73.90
71.60
66.15
46.43
38.56
31.20
42.44
70.22
50.38
25.17
47.05
1844....
14.15
24.03
35.29
53.44
60.72
65.13
68.17
71.87
61.82
46.71
35.31
30.52
49.^
68.39
47.95
33.90
47.26
1845....
25.78
26.84
f).65
48.34
55.86
69.31
74.51
72.47
55.61
48.86
39.80
17.18
48.28
72.10
48.09
23.27
47.93
1846....
16.98
17.39
29.85
47.07
60.15
67.50
71.87
71.98
60.78
47.89
42.45
25.43
45.69
70.45
53.37
19.93
47.11
1847....
25.98
21.72
28.52
42.83
59.29
66.90
73.95
71.44
62.36
47.10
44.03
32 30
43.55
70.76
51.16
26.67
48.03
1848....
30.06
23.48
31.77
47.51
62.00
69.92
71.88
71.89
55.36
48.97
39.43
33.66
47.09
71.23
47.92
29.07
43.83
1849....
19.81
16.48
36.14
42.36
54.28
68.12
73.58
69.14
60.49
47.56
43.14
25.54
44.26
70.28
50.40
20.61
46.39
1850....
iS.52
25.33
30.29
40.94
53.44
68.^
76.13
67.64
59.20
48.05
39.03
21.40
41.56
70.66
48.76
23.08
46.01
1851....
22.03
27.84
37.35
45.66
57.94
66.67
72.14
68.60
61.83
52.16
36.00
22.01
46.98
69.13
50.00
23.96
47.52
1852....
16.67
25.77
32.63
44.42
60.69
68.68
75.44
71.54
61.78
56.60
39.75
37.62
45.91
71.89
52.71
26.69
49.30
1853....
30,14
30.86
37.78
42.88
55.39
69.55
70.74
70 39
61.38
45.46
39.02
25.67
45.33
70.23
48.62
28.89
48.26
1854....
21,86
19.54
31.55
41.27
54.89
67.10
77.17
69.77
61.44
48.18
38.67
19.38
42.90
71.33
49.43
20.26
45.99
Mean >
31 y'rs i
22.97
S3. 81
34.02
45.84
58.70
68.^
73.61
70.93
61.84
50.67
38.90
97.14
46.19
70.92
50.47
34.64
M8.05
» Mean of 33 years at the Albany Academy, New York University system, 48.30 degrees.
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AXD SUMMARIES.
517
PLATTSBURG BARRACKS, NEW YORK.
Latitude 44° 41', Longitude 73° 25'. Altitude 18&/eet.
1
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
I 1
Summer Autumn Winter.
Year.
1839....
16.72
32.43
31.25
45.13
57.97
66.28
72.04
68.75
59.93
48.12
32.88
24.94
44.78
69.03
46.38
21.36
45.53
1840....
12.62
26.37
29.33
44.21
60.67
67.17
73.11
69.39
58.13
46.47
re.45
19.41
44.73
69.56
45.08
19.46
44.85
1841....
23.98
67.52
67.45
60.37
42.77
33.10
25.37
45.41
1842....
20.70
25.31
33.7S
42.90
50.92
60.13
67.61
68.92
56.81
45.53
33.86
19.25
42.53
65.55
45.40
21.75
43.80
1843....
96.45
13.78
25.95
43.75
57.30
65.41
69.16
71.22
'64.78
46.53
36.25
28.79
42.33
66.60
49.19
23.01
45.78
1844....
10.33
19.68
30.29
47.74
55.04
61.01
66.30
64.90
58,57
42.89
29.19
18.95
44.36
64.07
43.55
16.39
42.07
1845....
18.68
19.50
30.85
39.87
51.41
63.81
67.42
68.15
54.65
48.17
37.15
16.03
40.70
66.46
46.66
18.07
42.97
1846....
18.70
I2.S
31.05
44.02
54.12
61.52
43.26
1849....
70.00
68.48
57.57
46.03
41.94
^.10
48.51
1850....
21.45
94.46
98.80
37.94
49.64
65.39
68.97
64.96
58.88
46.86
38.95
19.32
38.46
66.44
48.23
21.74
43.72
1851....
18.62
24.20
30.28
42.08
52.91
61.65
66.96
66.37
59.39
51.57
30.49
19.07
41.75
64.99
47.15
20.63
43.63
185a....
13.90
21.05
27.^
38.06
Mean )
11 y'rs 5
18.37
30.96
29.88
42.63
54.51
63.60
68.81
67.86
58.91
46.49
34.62
21.32 1
. 42.34
66.76
46.67
20.22
44.00
NOTC.
Mean
— ^The first three months of 1839 were observed at Rouae^s Point,
temperature at Vermont University, Burlin^on, for eleven years— 18^ to 1852— 44.74 degrees. Observations by Professor Thompson, Hist. Vermont, 1853.
MADISON BARKACKS, SACKETT'S HARBOR, NEW YORK.
Latitude 43° oVj Longitude 76° 15'. Altitude 262 feet.
1824»...
28.41
S7.S6
31.77
45.15
52.13
63.26
69.17
67.-^!
K.93
49.77
36.84
33.07
43.03
66.62
49.85
39.68
47.31
1825....
25,51
30.46
36.93
72.69
71.91
62.57
55.27
41.42
39.34
.53.09
28.44
1K8....
27.92
30.90
35.58
41.30
61.65
69.60
72.26
73. K
62.80
53.58
39.31
95.69
46.18
71.63
51.90
28.17
49.47
1827....
14.29
20.56
30.73
42.96
53.34
63,11
69.03
64.23
43.34
65.46
1828....
25.77
29.28
35.03
1829....
21.44
20.61
98,07
45.27
60.54
68.48
70.29
71,59
59.52
51.28
37.01
36.11
44.63
70.12
49.27,
26.05
47.52
1830,...
20.35
22.40
36.09
54.03
57.90
65.07
74.62
69.65
61.09
53.81
45.46
K.62
49.32
69.78
53.45
25.12
49.42
1831....
18.23
^.25
41.41
48.99
58.15
73.88
72.34
71.88
64.40
55.56
41.63
19.95
49.S3
72.37
53.86
30.14
48.97
1832....
27.58
25.79
39.11
1838....
47.28
32.92
23.94
1839....
49.08
55.74
60.13
70.87
68.46
59.43
51.95
37.21
27.73
66.48
49.53
1840....
15.45
30.73
33.50
70.85
71.69
58.76
47.51
36.85
23.12
1
47.71
23.10
1841t...
33.60
67.10
38.50
66.62
47.11
37.35
44.89
1842....
26.01
39.11
37.30
45.06
50.44
59.91
65.89
66.69
56.30
47.91
34.39
24.76
*
29.19
44.26
64.15
46.20
26.e
45.30
1843....
30 24
14.18
93.30
42.30
51.15
59.23
66.20
67.20
59.37
44 30
34.90
38.^
64.21
45.96
94.54
43.41
1844....
12.74
30.99
30.60
46.94
56.00
69.13
66.90
66.15
60.63
44.69
33.79
35.00
45.18
65.06
46.37
19.91
44.13
1845....
21.73
31.85
34,61
43.06
50.74
62.00
66.88
68.93
56.85
49.94
37.76
17.88
42.80
65.93
48.18
30.39
44.33
1846....
21.53
16.16
31.62
43.44
56.83
63.64
I 44.63
1849...
39.66
41.91
53.46
67.12
72.04
71 09
61.43
48.93
46.08
25.11
42.68
70.08
53.14
1850....
25.05
34.43
30.49
40.55
50.91
67.90
72.13
68.88
60.06
48.02
40.32
19.73
40.65
69.64
49.47
23.07
45.71
ISol....
22.31
27.80
34.31
41.93
54.13
62.01
68.52
65.45
59.18
50.60
32.26
22.49
43.46
65.33
47.35
24.53
45.17
1852....
14.93
23.03
98.79
39.05
{Mean )
16 y'rs i
^.19
24.30
33.22
44.69
54.87
64.43
69.86
69.02
00.35
30.ua
37.65
35.98
44.26
67.77
49.34
34.16
46.38
Mean J
last 8V
V "rs- )
21.89
32.70
31.52
43.14
52.96
63.00
69.75
67.77
59.12
47.91
38.97
33.45
'^.54
68.84
48.00
fs.ee
45.01
• Observations taken at 6, 3, and 7, in the second quarter, and apparently near these hours, through 1824, 1825, and 1826. They are generally incomplete to
1828, inclusive.
f The monthly records for 1S41 are lost.
} The mean at Toronto, latitude 43' 39 06 ', for 13 years, (rom 1841 to 18jJ, 44.23 degrees— corrected to absolute mean temperature, as for hourly observationa
bv Col. Sabliie. The nieau for the corresponding and carefully observed years of this scries is ver)- nearly accordant with that at Toronto.
518
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT ONTARIO, NEW YORK.
Latitude 43° 20', Longitude 76° 40'. Altitude 250/ee<.
FORT NIAGARA, NEW YORK.
Latitude 43° 18', Longitude 79° 08'. AUitude 250 feet.
1 Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
lS-13....
30.84
17.97
24.27
42.76
51.25
59.06
66.09
68.50
61.50
45.10
34.30
30.50
39.43
64,55
46.97
26.44
44.35
1844....
17.40
24.95
33.35
49.65
57.57
61.72
68,57
65.82
61.07
45.00
35.85
27.60
46.86
65.37
47.31
23.32
45.71
IMS....
25.66
25.77
36.46
43.09
49.74
61.83
67.44
69.06
58.50
49.89
39.55
22.04
43.10
66.11
49.31
24.49
45.78
1846....
24.70
21.36
31.17
45.02
56.52
6-1.18
44.24
1849....
20.29
19.45
34.04
41.98
51.20
66.01
73.50
70.97
61.00
45.77
44.25
26.90
42.41
70.16
50.34
22.21
46.28
1850....
27.27
27.06
31.36
40.18
47.79
65.96
70.29
69.58
60.85
48.40
41.28
23.68
39.78
68.61
50.18
26.00
46.14
1851....
25.69
29.74
34.71
42.12
52.06
61.67
68.82
66.69
63.07
50.89
34.54
23.37
42.96
65.72
49.50
26.27
46.11
1852....
19.07
24.98
30.67
37.49
53.26
63.46
69.60
67.59
59.25
50.24
35.20
32,07
40.47
66.55
48.23
25.37
45.15
1853....
24.87
24.73
31.^
41.31
49.00
66.44
69.12
40.74
1854....
48.37
38.78
23.57
Menn )
9y'rs i
23.98
24 00
^.00
42.62
56.49
63.26
69.18
68.31
61.03
46.71
37.97
26.21
43.70
66.92
48.57
24.73
45.98
1829.^.
27.78
21.65
32.72
45.46
59.45
69.27
70.76
71.54
60.78
55.51
38.89
39.62
45.88
70.52
51.72
29.68
49.42
1830....
23.94
28.76
36.06
49.59
60.09
68.52
48.58
1831....
25.63
25.55
42.23
45.02
57.65
7i.se
73.57
71.67
62.50
55.76
41.72
24.19
48.30
72 38
53.33
25.12
49.78
1833....
51.17
62.12
66.34
72.72
73.35
66 99
70.80
1840 ...
23.18
31.69
34.84
44.01
56.89
60.44
70.20
70.72
59.08
49.94
39.98
26.26
48.27
67.14
49.66
27.37
48.11
1842....
30.53
30.20
38.54
45.10
52.49
59.08
68.34
67.77
60.78
51.51
35.75
28.70
45.37
65.66
49,34
29.81
47.54
1843....
31.80
20.08
25.74
41.75
50.64
61,31
68.70
69.38
63.70
45.95
34.48
^.14
39.38
66.46
48,04
28.01
45.47
1844....
22.17
28.70
33.78
48.28
57.24
61.66
67.20
65.30
61.35
45.84
38.40
31.74
46.43
64.72
48.53
27.54
46.80
1845....
29.02
29.17
38.83
44.55
55.00
65.01
70.58
70.32
60.73
50.67
39.45
24.33
46.13
68.64
50.28
27.51
48.14
1846*...
28.75
24.57
35.20
44.41
55.07
62.83
44.89
1849....
69.84
68.27
61.45
50.03
47.51
29.44
52.99
1850.. .
29.77
28.51
32.47
39.98
52.39
67.65
72.19
69.29
59.32
49.43
43.26
27.59
41.61
69.71
50 67
28.62
47.65
1851....
28.69
30.36
35.52
41.79
53.59
63.58
68.67
66.93
61.58
51 66
36.55
27.02
50.85
69.25
50.89
32.38
50.84
1858....
21.68
26.97
30.57
38.53
53.18
63.10
69.37
69.17
60.73
51 91
37.04
34.54
40.76
67.21
49.89
27.73
46.39
1853....
27.35
27.64
34.00
42.54
55.88
69.17
69.92
72.90
62.84
47.53
41.30
28.37
44.14
71.00
50.56
27.79
48.37
1854....
25.04
23.23
32.37
41.41
54.98
•
67.58
72.84
69.62
64.02
42.^
70.01
Mean >
My'rs \
26.85
26.93
34.49
44.24
5i.77
65.16
70.35
69.73
61. T7
50.48
39.53
29.66
44.83
68.41
50.59
27.81
47.91
* The record was evidently from a thermometer in a building or protected position for most of the period. Some of the early years were quite inaccurate,
and portions of these have been omitted.
BUFFALO BARRACKS, NEW YORK.
Latitude 42° 53', Longitude 78° 58'. Altitude 660/ee^.
1841....
25.24
21.26
26.97
35.85
48.81
65.31 1
63.23
67.83
64.30
44.21
37.35
30,83
37.21
65.45
48.62
25.77
44.26
1842....
29.98
29.45
38.58
45.41
55 12
61.90
68.67
68.44
59.24
48 86
a5.io
26,46
46.37
66.33
47.73
28.63
47.26
1843....
30.80
18.17
19,20
43.30
52.10
63.04
69.20
71.15
63.19
45.12
34.10
32.80
38,20
67.80
47.47
27.26
45.18
1844....
22.40
27.38
33.19
50.68
56.48
65.30
69.33
66.72
61.34
45.46
36.78
30,09
46.85
67.12
47.86
26.62
47.11
1845....
28.07
28.36
37,23
45.56
52.21
64.75
70.61
45.00
Mean )
4iy'r3S
27.30
24.92
31.05
44.20
52.95
64.06
68.21
68.53
62 02
45.91
35.83
30.04
«.73
66.93
47.92
27.42
46.25
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
519
ALLEGHANY ARSENAL, PI'lTSBURG, PENNSYLVANL4.
Latitude 40° 32', Longitude 80° 02'. Altitude 704 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1825...,
31.15
37.49
45.15
50.40
64.06
71.80
76.04
74.05
63.09
54. .'lO
39.41
30.85
53.20
73.96
52.30
33.16
53.15
1826....
28.13
33.97
43.69
74.24
79.67
66.48
S6.79
43.93
34.70
55.73
32.27
1827....
26.08
39.54
48.40
57.24
62.33
69.08
74.49
74.16
65.93
54.54
42.69
41.83
55.99
72.91
54.39
35.82
54.78
1836....
28.75
20.13
31 55
54.09
74.60
73.02
74.72
68.49
62.24
38.15
30. t4
22.40
53.08
72.08
43.74
23.76
48.16
1837....
16.79
25.65
27.74
31.26
59 69
70.33
74.44
72.00
57.43
52.30
42.94
32.31
39.56
72.36
50.89
24.92
46.91
1838....
33.22
18.49
41.55
44.95
53.96
71.68
77.79
74.57
66.05
55.47
40.23
^.28
46.82
74.68
50.58
24.66
49.18
1839....
30.68
aj.55
37.09
54.82
60.97
65.28
72. K
69.80
63.48
57.99
35.99
30. K
50.96
69.37
52.49
31.18
51.00
1840....
21.79
39.12
40.95
53.13
61.73
69.59
71.15
69 50
59.64
52.05
39.45
29.39
51.70
70.08
50.38
30.10
50.56
1841....
29.95
29 56
38.24
47.50
57.51
70.86
63.26
68.15
66.12
46 50
41.14
30.53
48.08
67.42
51.25
30.01
49.19
1642....
33.99
36.06
46.76
54.41
56.43
65.41
69.90
68.10
64.36
49.75
35.55
31.01
52.53
67.80
49.89
33.69
50.98
1843....
35.77
23.84
26.05
48.01
57.64
68.10
72.38
71.25
66.84
46.08
37.41
33.59
43.90
70.58
50.11
31.73
49.08
1844....
25.48
31.35
40.75
59.52
62.52
68.17
73.12
68.97
62.19
47.15
38.59
31.88
54.26
70.09
49.31
29.57
50.81
1845....
33.53
31.36
39.49
53.59
58.34
69.12
70.60
72.41
62.10
47.38
38.07
23.10
50.47
70.71
49.18
29.33
49.92
1846....
29.27
27.74
40.09
54.28
65.43
68.^2
73.27
74.12
68.50
51.50
45.30
35.70
53.26
72.10
55.10
30.80
52.81
1847....
29.92
32.62
37.27
50.31
62.36
66.97
72 48
68.67
62.03
49.41
42.12
33.10
49.98
69.37
51.18
31.88
50.60
1848....
33.63
31 49
36.37
48.75
64.28
68.37
70.97
70.91
58.14
50.16
36.60
40.18
49.80
70.08
48.30
35.10
50.82
1849....
28.28
28.08
41.05
47.84
60.35
70.93
71.50
69.79
60.15
50.22
44.82
30.22
46.21
70.74
51.73
28.86
49.43
1850....
33.63
31.87
35.50
46.06
53.97
68.48
76.10
72.28
62.51
49.33
42.08
32.68
45.18
72.29
51.31
32.73
50.38
1851....
32.47
37.67
42.48
48.75
61.32
66.41
72.19
69.15
64.48
51.66
36.55
27.02
50.85
69.25
50.69
32.38
50.84
1852....
23.62
31.37
40.20
44.46
59. K
66.23
73.71
69.38
62.08
57.22
39.65
36.62
48.16
69.77
52.98
30.54
50.36
1853....
29.31
32.08
38.60
50.42
60.90
73.72
72.21
71.88
65.02
48.46
44.38
29.38
49.94
72.60
52.95
30.26
51.44
1854....
29.08
33.49
40.36
49.30
61.17
71.15
78.18
76.38
69.92
53.32
37.92
30.53
50.28
75.24
53.72
31.03
52.57
Mean )
23y'rs J
29.25
31.16
39.02
49.96
60.92
69.22
72.98
71.21
63.58
50.91
39.80
31.35
49.97
71.47
51.43
30.59
50.86
CARLISLE ]'..A.RRACKS, PENNSYLVANIA.
Latitude 40° 12', Longitude T7° 14'. Altitude 500 feet.
1839....]
77.17
72.76
67.08
56.30
34.90
29.33
52.76
1
1840....!
20.44
35.64
42.50
52.52
60.36
67.69
72.88
71.64
58.60
50.66
38.99
26.82
5) .79
70.74
49.41
27.63
49.89
1841....
29.15
25.52
33.62
46.31
59.53
71.48
70.64
70.76
64.86
45.51
39.33
30.60
46.49
70.96
49.90
28.43
48.94
1842....
31.43
33.37
45.24
51.29
54.32
67.23
72.17
68.83
62.60
48.56
34.13
29.09
50.28
69.41
48.43
31.28
49.85
1843....
33.74
23.90
26.88
50.80
60.15
68.85
72.70
12.05
67.90
49.80
37.50
31.65
45.91
71.20
51.73
29.76
49.66
1844....
25.07
31.26
41.00
59.06
65.88
70.09
77.01
73.10
66.65
54.36
41.61
32.93
55.31
73.40
54.21
29.75
53.17
18-15....
35.80
J2.S6
43.56
54.11
62.42
75.95
80.35
78.91
71.50
57.16
46.80
28.33
53.36
78.40
58.49
32.34
53.65
1846....
34.58
32.48
39.90
51 42
1848....
31.50
30.80
35,81
51.41
64.75
72.46
71 27
68.81
58.59
52.10
35.34
38.25
50.66
70.85
48.68
33.53
50.93
1849....
24.93
24.92
40.60
48.90
58.01
71.92
73.18
72.32
62.56
51.19
46.37
29.81
49.17
72.47
53.37
26.55
50.39
1850....
30.13
32.40
."ie.ss
46.46
56.48
71.15
75.79
71.58
62.14
50.20
41.48
32.05
46.60
72.84
51.27
31.53
50.56
1851....
31.38
36.85
41.47
47.61
60.72
67.33
71.90
69.30
63.83
52.13
36.95
49.93
69.81
50.97
1852....!
23.00
30.19
37.09
44.25
61.73
68.31
74.16
68.62
61.31
55.63
38.55
36.30
47.69
70.36
51.83
29.83
49.93
1853
28.94
32.21
38.62
48.18
60.54
73.00
73.78
ra.61
65.72
49.11
73.13
1854....'
73.61
68.66
55.29
41.60
28.70
55.18
Mean >
ISy'rsJ
29.24
33.95
38.78
50.10
60.41
70.45
74.08
71.92
64.43
52.22
39.50
31.16
49.76
72.15
SS.OS
30.43
51.10
620
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT MIFFLIN, PENNSYLVANIA.
Latitude 39° 53', Longitude 75° 13', Altitude 20 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1823....
31.95
26.61
39.11
S5.77
63.84
75.22
82.19
78.81
73.27
58.27
42.46
35.11
52.91
78.74
58.00
31.22
55.22
1834....
35.13
32.73
38.27
48.55
03.09
75.24
80.96
75.18
73.44
56.12
46.33
39.22
49.97
77.13
58.63
35.69
55.35
1843....
39.01
27.78
30.45
50.36
59.22
70.43
73.70
74.82
69.16
51.28
40.56
34.42
46.68
72.98
53.67
33.74
51.77
1844....
28.28
32.03
42 54
54.51
65.79
69.98
74.53
72.55
65.82
52.41
42.59
33.55
54.28
72.35
53.51
31.29
52.86
1843....
36.43
33.56
44.79
.52.98
60.84
71.76
76.58
75.41
66.67
53.95
44.57
28.59
52.93
74.58
55.06
32.86
53.86
1846....
32.22
28.75
41.75
.52.46
1849....
29.67
28.38
42.24
49.90
57.74
72.56
73.35
73.86
66.54
55.28
51.86
33.76
49.95
73.26
57.89
30.60
52.92
1850....
35.25
37.72
40.06
47.50
57.82
71.46
77.18
73.35
68.05'
56.06
36.30
48.46
74.00
.36.42
1851....
33.17
37.00
41.84
50.66
61.77
69.49
76.25
73.49
69.40
61.05
53.27
34.90
51.42
73.07
61.24.'
35.02
55.19
1852....
33.16
35.01
40.77
44.00
63.34
69.64
79.97
72.27
67.58
58.80
42.40
39.75
49.37
73.96
55.26
33.97
53.89
1853;.. .
31.06
34.76
41.28
50.59
62.09
73.70
74.43
74.37
67.06
54.66
51.29
74.17
Mean)
lOy're 5
33.21
32.21
40.30
50.65
61.55
71.95
76.91
74.41
68.70
55.81
45.50
35.07
50.83
74.42
56.67
33.50
53.85
FORT DELAWARE, DELAWARE.
Latitude 39° 35', Longitude 75° 34'. Altitude 10 feet.
1825....
36.57
43.09
53.04
65.14
74.31
80.47
75.35
68.05
61.47
46.47
35.42
53.76
76.71
58.66
1826....
35.15
37.09
39.50
45.77
69.46
76.56
77.72
76.03
76.59
57.68
50.64
38.35
51.58
76.77
61.64
36.86
56.71
1827....
29.92
40.44
47.28
58.70
62.38
70.64
77.05
•71.54
79.26
59.47
43.41
56.12
76.08
37.92
1828....
42.38
46.40
49.02
50.89
67.18
79.11
79.29
79.48
68.65
55.37
47.60
42.01
55.70
79.29
57.21
43.60
58.95
1829....
31.56
26.92
37.07
52.82
65.17
71.80
73.98
74.98
64.36
55.51
42.61
40.10
51.69
73.59
54.16
32.86
53.07
1830....
31.94
28.90
41.76
54.17
63.33
70.19
79.42
78.51
68.62
58.42
45.62
36.67
53.09
76.04
57.55
32.84
54.88
18!>4....
32.38
34.56
43.18
50.98
64.50
53.89
Mean >
6J y'rs i
33.67
35.84
42.99
52.34
65.31
73.77
77.99
75.98
70.92
57.99
46.59
39.33
53.55
75.91
58.50
36.28
56.06
* August, 1827, observed at Cape May.
FORT McHENRY, MARyL.,VND.
Latitude 39° 17', Longitude 76° 35'. Altitude
3&feet.
1831....
28.66
30.78
47.33
56.49
64.34
74.75
75.51
75.88
67.07
59.78
43.72
25.36
56.05
75.38
56.86
28.27
54.14
1832 ...
31.81
37.46
44.50
52.66
62.76
71.75
76.52
75.69
71.60
59.84
46.78
38.97
53.31
74.65
59.41
36.08
55.86
1833....
37.06
37.40
40.79
56.64
70.12
72.71
77.71
74.12
69.27
54.69
44.26
38.49
55.85
74.85
56.07
37.65
56.10
1834....
29.71
44.49
47.15
55.27
61.07
72.00
80.41
77.26
66.78
52.97
44.63
36.52
54.50
76.56
54.80
36.91
55.69
1835....
31.82
29.09
41.01
49.03
63.97
71.18
75.53
72.46
61.81
58.39
48.43
33.31
1 51.34
73.06
56.21
31.41
53.00
1836....
33.77
26.06
32.80
51.52
63.43
66.77
74.76
69.97
68.52
48.21
41.61
41.61
; 49.25
70.50
52.78
33.8!
51.58
1837....
28.77
34.08
40.83
49.08
62.26
69.92
74.72
73.78
64.49
56.33
46.66
38.28
50.72
72.81
55.83
33.04
53.10
1838....
37.34
26.79
42.59
48.35
59.29
74.46
80., W
77.38
67.. 58
51.32
40.68
31.08
50.08
77.46
53.19
31.74
53.12
1839....
32.41
34.66
43.30
56.41
66.25
70.00
77 10
72.94
67.10
60.10
40.23
34.27
55.32
73.35
55.81
33.78
54.56
1840....
24.20
38.68
45.26
54.25
61.51
71.16
73.77
74.47
63.49
55.72
43.69
29.88
53.67
72.80
54.30
30.92
52.92
1841....
30.45
31.81
40.36
47.43
55.72
69.63
76.42
74.07
70.64
49.28
42.07
35.06
47.84
73.37
54.00
32.44
51.91
1832....
36.42
38.14
47.97
54.19
59.63
68.98
75.39
73.42
68.08
54.43
38.93
32.68
53.93
72.60
53.81
35.75
54.02
1843....
38.39
28.13
30.14
50.28
60.97
72.61
75.73
78.36
71.15
54.36
41.90
35.18
47.13
74.90
55.82
33.90
52.94
1844....
29.22
32.10
41.93
55.88
G6.46
69.34
77.36
74.10
66.62
52.88
41.08
33.25
54.76
73.60
53.53
31.52
53.35
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
521
FORT McHENRY, MARYLAND— Continued.
Latitude 39° 17', Longitude 76° 35'. Altitude 36/eet.
Jan.
Feb.
Marcli.
April.
May.
June.
July.
.Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
1
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1845....
36.85
31.09
44.13
54.55
60.55
71.77
76.07
53.08
1846....
K.29
29.64
42.02
52.98
64.81
68.09
74.30
74.16
69.98
54.32
47.31
34.79
53.27
71.85
57.20
32.24
53.64
1847....
30.71
32.52
38.00
53.74
64.19
69.99
77.62
75.27
68.33
55.79
49.21
37.94
52.64
74.29
57.78
33.72
54.61
1848....
37.51
36.17
40.73
.56.91
67.86
74.91
75.26
76.24
65.23
57.61
42.23
43.91
55.17
75.47
55.02
39.20
56.21
1849....
31.89
30.94
44.44
52.05
61.19
75.17
76.17
75.47
67.92
57.07
53.57
37.10
52.56
75.60
59.52
33.31
55.35
1830....
38.18
39.78
42.75
50.59
61.20
74.67
78 55
73.96
67.88
58.23
51.36
40.37
51.51
75.73
59.16
39.44
56.46
1851....
37.30
39.54
47.05
54.73
64.84
71.39
78.33
73.64
69.37
58.86
46.63
32.67
55.54
74.45
58.28
36.50
56.19
1852....
28.01
35 86
42.95
47.95
63.18
70.12
74.85
76.00
65.86
58.26
43.97
40.48
51.36
73.66
55.69
34.78
53.87
1853 ...
33.27
36.74
42.75
53.19
64.33
74.53
76.01
75.15
69.83
54.14
48.66
36.62
53.42
75.23
57. M
35.21
55.33
1854....
33.6!
36.47
44.40
49.00
64 29
72.00
78.32
75.45
71.29
58.11
50.55
33,76
53.56
75.26
59.98
34.61
55.60
Mean )
24y'rs J
32.86
34.23
42.29
53.71
63.10
71.58
76.71
74.66
67.82
55.68
43 10
35.63
52.70
74.32
56.20
34.24
54.36
FORT SEVERN, MARY LAND.
Latitude 38° 58', Longitude 76° 27'. Altitude 20 feet.
1822....
29.28
35.13
46.26
55.05
67.09
73.16
79.68
77.23
72.36
61.55
53.^
38.51
56.13
76.69
62.58
34.31
57.43
1831....
27.86
27.82
45.19
.14.43
64,33
74 94
77.54
75.66
68.37
59,15
44.64
25.98 1
54.64
76.05
57.39
27.22
53.ffi
1833....
33.70
37.78
43.35
51.84
61.63
71.97
77.01
75.44
68.82
58.38
48.59
43.24
52.27
74.81
58.60
37.91
53.90
1833....
36.68
37.36
40.84
58.14
66.74
71.23
77.95
75.20
70.95
57.09
45.83
38.08
55.24
74.79
57.96
37.37
56.31
1834....
30.00
40.79
45.05
49.70
64.14
72.95
79.79
78.10
61.78
58.08
46.70
36.83
52.96
76.95
fr2.19
33.87
54.49
1843....
32.46
51.46
60.40
72.13
75.66
75.11
70.40
53,16
41.95
36.80
48.11
74.30
55.17
1844....
30.35
32.85
43.03
55.20
69,00
72.04
77.99
75.45
69.09
55.91
46.34
37.46 :
56.08
75.16
57.11
33.55
55.47
1845....
39 31
36.51
46.59
53.60
62.50
73.35
77.72
'■
54.90
!Mean )
8 yr's. ;
32.31
35.46
42.85
54.05
64.48
72.72
77.17
76.03
68.82
57.62
46.84
36.70,
53.79
75.31
57.76
34.sa
55.42
Latitude 38° 53' 39", Longitude 77'
WASHINGTON CITY.=
2' 48". {National Observatory.)
Altitude 50 to ^Ofeet.
1823...
41.37
35.15
47.41
59.69
66.49
73.27
78.21
76.67
C8.42
53.04
37.75
37.23
57.86
76.05 '
53.27
si.aa
58.28
1824....
38,51
34.66
41.46
55.35
64.69
73.60
79.13
74.98
63.63
57,27
43.88
40.28
53,83
75.90
56 59
37.K
56.04
1835....
35.41
39.14
48.87
53.38
61.98
76.. 36
79.27
' 75.77
67.51
60.16
44.63
36,13
56.74
77.13
57.40
33.56
56.31
1826....
35.66
41.33
49.00
33.36
73.42
76.51
77.48
76.25
72.34
58.68
45.84
36.31
58.59
76.75
58.95
37.77
58.02
1827....
30.20
42.63
47.41
59,97
66.22
74.35
79.93
78.42
70.15
58.41
44.87
41.59
57.87
77.57
57.81
3S.I4
57.85
1828....
41.13
47.26
47.52
50.44
66.96
79.29
78.11
79.09
67.41
54.79
47.33
41.74
54.97
78.83
56.51
43.38
58.42
1839....
32.74
28.62
39.63
54.36
65.53
73.61
74.80
73.91
64.29
55.79
42.69
44.28
53.17
74.11
54.23
35.31
54 18
1830....
a-i.84
33.70
46.36
56,33
65.16
73..54
81.14
77.95
69.27
58.66
52.47
37.33
55.95
77.54
60.13
34.98
57.14
1831....
26,83
29.32
46,82
55.06
63.32
73.91
74.96
74.78
67.37
56.03
42.13
25.37
55.07
74 55
55.18
27.17
52.99
1833....
31.98
37.13
44,91
1833....
35.59
36.57
41.63
58.20
70.03
71.34
77.59
74.50
68.88
53.87
43.30
37.53
56.62
74.48
55.03
36.56
55.67
1834....
29.82
43.15
47.33
55.82
62.84
72,37
80.51
77.22
66.45
53 31
43.80
36.54
55.34
76.67
54.52
36.50
55.78
183,5....
30.15
29,01
41.37
53.45
65.46
75.14
78.03
73 97
62.44
59.77
49.32
33.57
50.09
76.38
57.18
30.91
53.64
Alean j
12y'rsS
34.09
36.74
45.36
55.70
66.26
74.41
78.23
76.29
•
67.76
58.70
44.83
37.32
J55.7,
76.33
56.43
36.0.1
.■*.14
• Obiicrvaiions by Iti-v. Hnbirt I.iiile In July, 1827, anil by .\ssistaut Surgeon J. A. Brcreton f ubscqu :nlly. Tlic looalily w.ts in llic first case near Hie ceiiuc
of tbe ciry, and in tlic last near tlic War Pepaftmenl buildings.
S, 90 6ti,
522
CONSOMDATED TABLES AND SUMMAlilES.
FORT WASHINGTON, JUKYLAND.
Latitude 38° 43', Longitude 77° 06'. Altitude 60 Jeet.
BELLONA ARSENAL, RICHMOND, VIRGINIA.
Latitude 37° 20', Longitude 11° 25'. Altitude 120 feet.
FORT MONROE, VIRGINLi.
Latitude 37° 00', Longitude 76° 18'. Altitude 8 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June,
July.
Aug.
Sept.
00..
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year-
1824....
43.67
38.40
45.34
56.53
65.96
75.06
79.63
76.11
68.32
59.25
47.50
43.00
55.94
76.93
58.38
41.36
58.15
1825....
37.44
40.47
50.12
58.90
66.87
78.23
81.46
78.79
69.79
63.56
47 34
39.13
56.63
79.47
60.23
39.01
59.33
1826....
38.41
43.53
51.20
54.70
74.00
77.83
78.61
77.79
73.32
61.66
49.83
40.24
59.97
78.08
61.60
40.73
63.34
1827....
31.19
46.13
51.40
62.72
66.22
74.35
60.19
46.85
41.33
60.11
39.55
1898....
43.64
48.00
49.00
52.09
69.37
59.98
49.65
33.34
56.82
41.33
1829....
33.70
28.33
41.05
57.86
70.28
76.22
77.44
77.41
67.90
58.24
45.08
46.26
56.43
77.02
57.07
38.09
56.65
1830....
35.21
36.05
49.38
60.69
69.40
77.28
83.60
79.08
70.75
62.14
53.94
38.43
59.82
79.99
63.28
36.56
59.66
1831....
31.33
50.65
59.43
69.25
79.48
79.45
77.72
71.23
61.74
45.97
26.16
59.78
78.88
63.98
1832....
56.68
67.10
76.54
81.11
77.26
69.88
59.10
50.86
39.89
78.30
59.61
1833....
38.57
38.71
43.53
62.00
73.41
76.24
82.57
78.42
73.59
56.47
47.07
38.24
59.64
79.07
59.04
38.50
58.40
1834....
31.29
45 59
44.45
55.75
64.88
79.20
83.03
79.77
71.41
56.52
43.17
37.94
55.03
78.73
57.03
38.24
57.25
1835....
31.81
28.89
42.98
78.23
73.20
62.94
59.73
49.83
34.56
57.17
31.75
1851....
66.04
72.20
78.48
74.61
68.08
58.02
43.09
31.17
75.09
56.40
1852....'
29.31
37.09
45.31
50.14
67.30
73.22
78.03
72.43
67.38
60.64
43.76
42.14 '
54.25
74.76
57.26
36.18
55.61
1853....
34.00
39.18
44.71
55.29
65.85
68.38
76.64
77.57
78.01
69.88
55.28
77.41
Me.in (
ISy'rs j-
35.50
38.59
46.86
57.14
76.35
79.99
76.96
69.57
59.80
47.42
37.99
57.43
77.77
58.93
37.36
57.87
1824....
41.44
34.09
42.10
50.26
57.48
79.03
76.47
76.76
63.00
48.74
41.64
49.95
77.43
39.06
1825....
35.54
40.21
56.51
80.38
79.85
72.52
48.34
38.09
37.95
1826....
40.37
46.97
53.83
61.06
.49.74
40.34
42.56
1827....
63.45
66.18
73.58
79.89
79.53
70.32
59.04
54.33
49.49
77.67
61.23
1828....
43.25
52.45
50.79
55.73
73.23
81.09
79.60
80.29
71.95
59.66
53.88
44.93
59.93
80.33
61.50
46.88
63.16
1829....
35.66
40.65
45.10
58.83
66.96
74.99
76.92
75.80
67.42
58.75
46.14
46.68
56.96
75.88
57.44
41.00
57.82
1830....
39.21
39.50
51.55
59.50
67.18
76.16
81.38
78.72
69.10
59.72
53.66
42.44
59.08
78.75
60.83
40.38
59.76
1831....
31.59
34.97
54.10
1832....
38.08
45.42
50.27
57.04
70.67
74.57
78.19
77.70
70.14
59.33
50.87
43.S!
59.33
76.8S
60.11
42.44
59.67
1833....
43.41
43.47
48.50
63.74
72.83
76.72
80.80
74.58
72.53
61.69
77.77
Mean i
8y'rs \
38.73
41.97
50.30
58.36
63.50
76 58
79.19
77.90
70.57'
60.08
50.59
43.43
57.39
77.89
60.41
41.38
59.37
1835....
46.17
47.96
55.89
59.80
69 85
75.30
75.97
77.88
72.75
67.23
55.52
44.05
61 85
76.38
65.17
46.06
63.36
1826....
43.55
48.23
54.87
56.63
71.57
78.02
79.98
79.33
76.51
63.11
50.23
42.89
61.02
79.11
63.28
44.89
62.07
1827...
36.58
45.84
51. oe
61.85
63.47
71.39
79.18
80.21
71.52
62.79
49.71
50.86
58.80
76.93
61.34
44.43
60.37
1838....
49.71
53.51
52.77
58.53
70.27
79.09
79.58
80.51
71.31
63.29
56.98
47.57
60.52
79.73
63.86
50.26
63.59
1829....
41.47
36.07
43.66
56.85
66.59
74.40
78.03
78.90
71.00
64.59
51.50
50.77
55.70
77.11
62.36
42.77
59.48
1830....
43.84
40.62
50.95
51.37
67.35
75.97
81.46
78.55
73.23
65.11
59.05
47.00
56.52
78.66
65.80
43.49
61.12
1831....
38.00
37.84
50.26
57.46
64.11
76.54
79.04
78.19
74.06
61.27
48.30
28.97
57.28
77.92
61.21
34.27
57.67
1832....
33.65
40.32
42.92
49.63
59.54
66.74
72.36
72.60
67.66
57.75
48.85
42.13
50.70
70.57
58.09
38.70
54.51
1833....
39.39
38.70
41.06
53.67
66.37
69.56
75.85
76.03
73.23
63.63
50.31
43.98
53.70
73.81
62.39
40.46
57.59
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
523
FORT MONROE, VIRGINIA— Continued.
Latitude 37° 00', Longitude 76° 18'. Altitude 8/eef.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May;
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
.Dec.
Spring.
1
Summer Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1834....
35.96
46.46
49.95
57.19
64.85
75.27
81.13
79.20
74.26
65.07
53.22
45.98
57.33
78 53
64.18
49.80
58,21
1833....
42.53
34.28
43.76
56.86
65. K
71.66
77.46
76.35
69.96
64.75
56.87
42.19
55.98
75.16
63.63
39.64
61.10
1836....
38.58
31 95
41.75
55.43
67.49
71.23
76.36
75.52
74.04
57.32
45 22
37.90
54.89
74.37
58.86
36.14
54.36
1837....
^.93
42.53
45.93
53 83
64.40
73.60
80.11
77.42
68.50
64.64
54.91
46.07
54.72
77.04
62.68
40.51
58.74
1833....
46.01
33.51
48.95
53.92
63.70
74.55
82.83
81.14
72.33
60.45
46.72
38.SS 1
55.29
79.51
59.83
39.36
58.50
1839....
39.72
43.13
46 94
56.62
69.18
73.14
80.04
76 17
69.85
63.84
48.03
40.15
57.58
76.45
60.57
37.67
58.07
1810....
34.26
47.72
53 IS
61.38
67.82
74.83
78.29
79.00
69.49
63.37
50.68
41.48
60.78
T7.37
61.18
41.14
60.12
1841....
41. ,10
39.11
47.50
54.32
63.45
77.53
78.34
76.94
74.60
56.96
51.04
45.49
55.09
77.67
60.87
49.01
58.66
1812....
45.09
47.03
57.18
K.78
66.99
74.18
77.42
75.7a
74.38
62 39
44.27
38.40
62.32
75.77
60.33
43.51
60.49
1813....
44.12
37.12
37.09
55.30
64.18
75.29
78.19
77.18
75.98
58.25
48.80
41.94
32.19
76.89
60.78
40.83
57.67
1814....
38.03
37.92
48.73
59.32
72.94
74.91
78.67
74.13
71. K
60.56
59.46
41.84 1
60.10
73.90
61.55
38.28
58.96
1843....
44.79
42.74
51.01
58.58
65.94
76.30
79.02
77.95
■ra.oo
61.07
51.70
34.77
58.51
77.76
61.39
40.77
59.66
1846....
40,90
38.87
48.91
57.29
70.00
73.95
78.86
79.74
74.20
61.36
54.46
46.94 ^
58.73
77.52
63.41
42.00
60.41
1847....
42.19
42.65
45.01
54.91
62.94
72.24
76 16
74.35
69.98
60.50
53.09
43.88 1
54.05
74.95
61.17
43.24
58.18
1848....
41.45
39.79
47.49
55.06
67.77
75.48
75.48
75.89
69.98
59.11
46.^
51.79
56.77
75.62
58.20
44.34
38.73
1849....
37.50
36.56
46.40
54.30
61.65
75.56
75.45
76.01
70.70
60.18
54.94
43.35
51.12
75.67
61.94
39.14
57.72
1850....
43.34
43.01
46.57
51.07
^.99
73.09
78.46
76.85
71.43
60.65
53.67
45 75
53.54
76.13
61.59
44.04
58.82
1851....
42.44
46.36
49.S
54.38
65.49
72.54
79.00
75.04
69.66
61.36
48.46
40.90
56.39
75.52
59.82
43.23
59.57
1852....
33.19
42.62
48.87
53.44
65.85
72.74
76.23
74.12
70.20
63.39
49.94
47.87
56.05
74.36
61.18
41.89
58.38
1833....
38.&t
44.00
48.62
56.13
64.94
74.49
77.54
76.96
71,85
59,90
55.46
43 09
56.56
76.33
69.17
41.98
39.96
1854....
41.47
43.82
50.82
57.16
68.74
77.20
80.91
79 55
76.60
64.55
52.85
40.75
58.91
78.99
64.67
42.01
61.14
Mean i
30y-ref
40.54
41.67
48.29
56.17
66.14
74.92
78.23
77.23
72.03
61.60
51.41
43.13 ,
56.87
76.57
61.68
41.45
59.14
FORT MACON, NORTH CAROLINA.
Latitude 34° iV, Longitude 76° 40'. Altitude 20 feet.
1833....
1834....
1833....
1836....
1843....
1844...,
Slean I ^^ ,,
5y'rs \ ^-1^
41.16
44.55
46.00
51.07
43.06
51.99
55.37
63.93
70.94
41.09
50.78
58.71
68.70
39.33
46.34
57.42
67.69
44.50
43.03
57.87
67.50
43.53
51.91
^.00
71.60
44.09
49.49
60.00
68.89
es.57 81.63
77.66 78.66
74.04
75.93 80.05
74.19 i 78.85
I
76.87 79,
79.72
78.10
I 65.20
76.53 66.34
71.06 65.97
80.14 ; 79.3! 62.60 53.
71.66 61.97
54.29
57.42
61.10
74.64 64.« 56.51
51.50
46.03
47.33
63.42
58.40
57.15
56.14
61.84
48.00
59.46
81.31
78.14
78.71
76.83
66.76
66.04
48.92 ]
43.89
64.93
61.62
65.03 I 47.63 61.88
69.23
FORT JOHNSTON, NORTH CAROLINA,
Latitude 34° GO', Longitude 78° 05'. Altitude 10 feet.
1822....
50.32
52,97
60.43
66.73
74.68
78.74
81.39
80 .39
76.12
70.79
66.69
54.95
67.28
80.24
71.20
59.75
67.87
1823....
52.14
46.55
58.71
67.29
74.19
76.92
80.83
79.91
73.89
65.91
55.56
54.30
66.73
79.as
65.79
51.00
65.68
1824....
55.34
50.69
58.42
63.97
71.90
77.97
82.93
80.50
75.19
68.87
60.40
57.34
64.76
60.47
68.15
54.46
66.96
1825....
31.82
54.34
61.96
62.11
73.38
79.98
81.07
80.19
75.00
68.85
57.03
48.47
65.82
80.41
66.96
51.54
66.18
1826....
47.47
56.38
63.08
66.29
74.34
81.38
81.61
80.76
79.39
71.14
60.98
54.07
67.90
81 .33
70.50
52 64
68.07
1827....
43.41
58.77
5.0.63
65.70
57.46
59.91
5J.47
laM....
.■a. 13
61 .59
62.00
63.64
74.17
80.47
79.66
81.33
74.17
67.26
61.38
59.25
66,60
60.49
67. S7
59.66
6S33
524
CONS0LID.\TED TABLES .'VND SUMMARIE.S.
FOKT .TOHNSTON, NORTH CAROLINA— Continued.
Latitude 34° 00', Longitude 78° 05'. AltUvde 20 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June. July.
Aug.
Sept. ^ Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
53.58
41 58
57.70
47.59
49.54
48 36
49.12
48.50
Spring.
Summer
Autmiiti
Wiiiur.
Vu.ir.
1S39....
1830....
lis;)!....
1833....
1833....
1834....
1835....
1836....
1843....
1844....
1845....
50.81
50.35
43 03
' 45.58
50.43
43.98
45.42
46.87
52.00
43.57
50.94
46. G3
50.39
44.27
55.91
51 09
53.63
39.92
44.69
47.00
45.69
48.99
53.40
59.18
55.72
54.47
54.26
57.23
50.68
48.51
46.50
54.34
56.55
62.30
64.16
64.15
64.28
63.88
61.94
63.38
61.50
64.64
66.44
70.90
71.88
70.80
79.84
76.12
69.65
72.85
70.50
76.90
70.74
79.19
77.46
79.67
77.30
80.83
80.09
79.96
76.50
77.77
79.30
80.43
80.65
80.22
83.36
83.14
80.25
82.50
83.16
82.76
80.83
80.93
80.08
77.29
79.18
79.63
82.00
79.18
75.22
78.19
75.83
76.92
75.97
71.34
80.00
75.33
66.62
68.05
68.43
64.23
67.07
65.58
64.00
63.61
62.40
56.83
63.15
53.73
55.39
61.19
58.00
59.77
61.87
63 07
63.56
63.86
64.75
62.94
62.30
59.50
65.29
64.58
80.15
80.42
79.20
80.16
80.80
79.71
80.33
79.80
67.69
68.80
64.97
66.14
66.04
67.33
66.24
51.44
42.96
53.03
49.70
48.72
44.57
49.37
45.93
63.66
66.22
64.87
64.65
63.15
64.13
64.31
Mean )
ISy'rif
49.03
50.53
56.34
64.17
72.86
78.92
81.48
80.17 76.04
67.07
59.26
52.24
64.46
80.19
67.46
50.60
65.68
AUGUSTA ARSENAL, GEORGIA.
Latitude 33° 28', Longitude 81° 53'. Altitude &00? feet.
ItHG....
48 57
56.21
63.87
68.09
77.46
79.26
83.30
81.22
78 03
68.24
56.23
47.65
70.47
81.26
67.51
50.81
67.51
1827....
44.57
61.26
59.30
67.93
70.92
70.98
82.88
81.44
75.10
66.66
57.63
57.16
66.05
80.43
66.46
54.33
66.82
1838....
54.41
57.66
39.47
64.28
76.57
83.37
81.66
81.61
72.13
71.40
56.74
54.44
66.77
82.21
66.76
55.50
67.81
1829....
46.97
40.27
49.93
.'59.40
69.18
78.36
78.58
78.30
72.21
61.77
50.45
54.18
39.50
78.41
61.48
47.14
61.63
1830....
48.61
50.39
SS.30
69.19
72.41
81.45
84.40
83.14
73. &3
61.12
60.71
49.04
66.63
83.00
65.26
49.35
66.06
1831....
40.98
45.57
58.72
65.69
fi9..54
77.94
80.41
77.74
74.06
65.12
53.90
37.23
64.65
78.50
64.36
41.26
63.19
1833....
45.52
5S.8I
54.93
64.95
72.94
77.57
81.72
79.63
73..'i8
64.15
36.28
49.41
64.04
79.64
64.67
30.31
64.64
1833....
54.07
57.04
57.69
63.21
77.07
84.39
84.27
80.41
76.80
60.61
51.31
44.72
66.66
83.02
69.91
51.94
66.13
1834....
44.24
62.03
50.82
63.70
72.03
82.86
85.95
83.24
74.65
63.85
52.97
49.23
62.18
83.78
63.82
51.83
65.40
IS.'iS....
45.92
•39.60
50.77
61.91
72.84
79.66
79.82
78.85
68.21
«3.38
60.03
47.15
61.84
79.44
63.87
44. iH
62.36
1836....
45.05
44.09
50.34
64.59
72.62
73.98
79.43
78.02
75.70
69.59
77.81
1837....
39.94
49.21
53.77
r>8.6i
70.84
76.43
86.37?
81.71
73.89
61.07
81.50
1838....
64.65
66.98
79.92
84.93
83.01
74.60
56.79
47.66
40.35
82.39
39.68
1839 ..
44.65
46.16
53.10
65.90
70..38
79.32
79.71
78.90
79.47
66.09
47.91
38.67
63.86
79.31
63.16
43.16
69.05
1840....
43.43
54.17
38.21
64 80
68.00
73.41
75.99
75.23
66.34
63.94
50.47
43.84
63.67
75.55
60.93
47.15
61.65
1841t...
47.00
46.00
53.94
69.88
70.30
78.40
80.47
76.37
71.53
57.72
52.62
44.85
62.37
78.41
60.63
45.91
61.83
18.12....
48.74
51.31
64.26
66.95
71.58
76.39
77.45
74.93
74.96
60.49
46 98
44.47
67.60
76.26
60.33
48.17
63.14
1843....
50.90
46.69
43.87
64.76
71.16
78.23
89.96
79.20
80.73
64.75
58.66
52.27
59.93
80.13
68.05
49.95
64.51
1844....
44.78
51.20
56.09
69.15
77.43
77.04
81.49
79.42
74.43
63.94
57.14
48.42
67.56
79.33
65.17
48.13
65.04
1845....
51.40
52.92
57.19
70.55
72.96
83.47
87.48
80.94
74. «)
69.86
50.71
38.76
06.90
83.96
63.81
47.09
65 34
1846....
45.83
46 52
57.64
65.56
Mean i
21 y'rs f
46.73
50.70
55.80
65.15
72.17
79.05
81.92
79.66
73.89
63.49
53.80
46.77
64.37
80.21
63.37
48.07
64.01
* February 8, 1835, thermometer— 4" at 5 a. m.
t First nine months of 1841 cniiiputcd from obscr^-ations at sunrise and 9 p. m. ; remainder, 7, 9, and 9.
Note — The very low meiin temperature of December, 1831, will be obser^-ed in the series at each post.
CONSOIilDATED TABLES AND SCMMARIES.
525
FORT MOULTRIE, SOUTH CAEOLINA.
Latitude 32° 45', Longitude 79° 51'. Altitude 25 feet.
Jan.
Fel).
Marcb.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
OcL
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
1 1 1
Summer .\utuinn Winter.
Tear.
1K3....
48.56
43.06
57.09
65.36
75.12
75.97
81.17
79.83
76.43
66.26
56 80
50.96
63.88
78.99
66.50
47.53
64.72
1834....
53.90
49.43
60.92
64.57
74.73
79 76
&2.81
80.10
75.95
68.39
58.33
54.66
66.74
80.89
67.36
52.33
61.88
1^5....
50.29
52.82
61.39
62.62
72.88
79.35
82.09
83.57
77.38
70.87
1
63.63
81.67
183S....
69.32
73.80
81.09
81.99
81.59
81.02
72.04
62.78
54.13
81.58
71.95
1827....
44.93
59.93
62.45
69.11
73.67
77.25
83.33
80.76
78.73
68.41
80.45
1828*...
61.48
M.73
64 03
65.09
77.29
85.-25
RJ.66
82.72
78.19
68.63
62.92
59.66
68.80
83 88
69.92
61.98
71.14
1829....
51.37
46.41
53.59
63.73
68.17
^.80
84.09
84.29
77.80
1
61.16
83.73
1830....
55.79
54 48
63.24
67. K
74.87
79.45
83.21
eS45
81.49
74.25
68.77
5S.55 '
68.48
81.70
74.84
f5.61
70.18
1831....
45.64
48.46
59.86
68.64
71.84
79.58
80.37
81.36
78.20
71.70
63.30
41.55
68.78
80.44
71.07
45 22
65.85
ISH....
48.69
57.35
57.96
64.12
72.95
76.93
79.90
79.96
76.03
B7.59
59.22
54.37
65.01
78.93
67.62
53 47
66.26
1833....
53.34
55.32
57.14
64.38
74.14
77.80
81.38
79.39
77.42
66.16
56.31
50.32
65.21
79.aJ
66.60
52.96
66.07
1834....
49.25
57.86
58.25
63.78
71.28
80.69
K.36
79.74
76.46
68.63
59.38
53.14
64.44
80.93
68.16
33.42
66.74
1835....
46. »t
40.14
51.69
61.88
73.73
79.75
79.87
80.04
72.94
67.49
64.51
51.48
62.43
79.89
68.31
46.15
64.19
1840 ...
47.94
57.86
61.36
67.18
73.40
77.44
79.29
79.80
73.03
67.35
57.53
49.80
67.31
78.84
65.97
51.87
66.00
1841....
52.80
48.^
55.33
63.70
69.51
77.00
82.79
81.00
76.68
63.22
61.32
50.20 j
63.18
80.26
67.07
50.84
63.16
1842....
53.23
53.43
63.35
66.78
71.81
77.03
78.02
75.71
76.18
66.28
53.54
49.33
67.31
78.92
65.31
52.00
63.39
1843....
53.67
48.73
48.82
64.68
71.61
78.06
81.47
80.43
80.85
67.31
59.62
53.39
61.70
80.00
69.26
51.93
65.72
1844....
50.08
51.71
58.12
66.95
75.98
79.85
83.29
81.53
75.15
66 60
61.92
52.76
67.02
81.56
67.89
51.52
67.00
18J5....
54.78
53.11
59.20
68.87
79.43
80.67
82.84
80.52
73.17
67.31
57.55
44.61
66.83
81.34
66.01
50.83
66.25
1846....
50.65
51.64
58.03
65.95
74.38
79.33
80.65
82.77
78.9J
61.46
53 44
66.31
80.M
51.%
1S47....
52.71
53.82
54.42
66.62
69^
80.01
81.07
80.97
76.55
66.66
60.51
53.80
63.45
80.68
67.90
53.44
66.37
1848....
50. (e
50.17
59.-52
66.05
79.51
81.75
S.75
77.07
64.28
52.05
61.75
81.34
64.47
53.95
1849....
49.47
49.00
58.69
64.73
72.65
81.31
78.89
81.25
75.29
67.94
60.87
54.24
65.38
80.48
68.03
50.90
66. ID
1830....
54.89
50.68
56.21
62.. 53
71.76
76.84
83 76
83.31
77.81
66.23
59.84
55.58
63-50
81.30
67.98
53.72
66.37
1851....
51.09
56.82
60.87
66.00
73.45
78.95
82.84
82.17
74.32
67.61
56.88
48.47
66.77
Sl.Si
66.20
52.13
66.61
1852 ...
43.16
52 96
60.20
ffi!.87
73.80
76.61
81.40
79.79
75.76
70.54
58.48
56.27
83.62
79.26
68.26
50.79
65.98
1853....
45.23
53.20
58.S
66.63
76.40
79.39
^.83
80.85
77.06
65.70
eo.ss
54.19
66.42
81.02
67.76
S0.S7
66.sa
1854....
50.83
53.09
62.72
62.76
73.35
78.55
82.06
82.37
78.93
67. *2
56.29
47.97
52.51
6S.28
81.00
67.71
50.63
70.14
Mean
28)'rs
50.73
SSAl
58.68
65.44
73.42
79.01
81.72
80.94
76.89
67.88
59.56
6S.S
80.59
68.11
51.88
66.61
* Assistant Surgeon Stevenson reports the mildness of the winter of 1828 as verj' remarkable. The only frost observed wa.s on the ITtll of March.
OGLETHORPE BARRACKS, GEORGIA.
Latitude 32° n.")', Longitude 81° 01'. Altitude iOfeet.
1832....
49.93
57.87
59.18
66.87
74.88
77.11
80.11
79.10
77.02
1
70.31
78.77
1833....
77.90
81.68
81.42
80.30
77.51
69.76
56.26
56 99
81.13
67.84
1834....
5.-!.28
63.87
62.76
68.15
74.81
83.70
83.06
81.85
77.51
70.27
63.06
58.29
68.57
82.87
70.28
58.47
70.05
1835....
53.68
49.71
59.64
63.77
76.66
78.81
78.98
79.99
72.99
66.10
63.38
30.82
66.69
79.96
67.48
51.07
66.13
1843....
57.20
53.17
49.90
66.90
73.47
78 96
^.20
81.13
81.83
67.33
59.90
53.48
63.42
80 76
69.69
54.62
67.12
1844....
49.00
52.93
57.30
68.53
78.92
79.89
81.74
79.83
74.42
64.07
60.00
49.18
68.25
80.48
66.16
50.37
66.31
1845....
52.52
53.62
39 50
72.02
73.67
81.40
83.14
.80.87
77.12
86 70
56.31
45.01
68.40
81.80
66.78
30.88
66.84
1&I6....
.■a.-TO
53.71
61.24
64.07
75.44
78.41
79.71
81.05
T7.50
86.92
79.72
1850....
S5.5S
59.57
86.87
73.38
78.59
ffi.81
83.15
77.25
65.58
58.30
55.04 ^
66.61
81.52
67.04
Mean 1
9y,^{
54.44
55.05
58.64
67.15
73 46
79.84
81.46
80.81
77.02
67.13
59.67
53.69
67.08
80.70
67.94
64.06
67.44
526
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT MARION, ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA.
Latitude 29° 48', Longitude 81° 35'. Altitude 2b feet.
1
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
1
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1834....
•>...■
.. . .
76.01
67.18
62.35
.....
1825....
61.10
60.79
70.14
67.57
76.71
81.23
83.03
83 94
80.76
76.89
67.82
$6.60
71.47
82.73
75.16
59.50
72.21
1826....
56.69
64.98
70.63
74.19
78.26
82.37
84.17
83.62
81.97
75.50
61.78
74.36
83.02
73.28
1827....
74.35
76.69
80.20
84.35
82 43
79.62
72.75
63.58
65.59
82.33
71.98
1828....
67.77
71.61
64.21
68.95
77.32
81.43
81.64
82.00
79.66
72.03
66.33
66.90
70.16
81.69
72.67
68.76
73.32
1829....
57.28
56.45
58.18
67.19
73.61
80.84
81.32
80.55
79.61
66 33
80.90
1830....
57.57
63.50
65.24
69.53
75.28
80.70
82.40
82.10
78.27
71.90
68.37
60.63
70.02
81.73
72.85
60.23
71.21
1831....
52.13
55.38
64.40
68.92
73.37
79.08
80.25
81.23
78.82
72.98
65.76
53.46
68.90
80.19
72.52
53.32
68.73
18^....
54.77
63.71
63.90
71.23
76 53
77.81
80.76
80 35
78.73
73.58
64.74
61.09
70.55
79.64
72.35
59.86
70.60
1833....
59.38
62.86
61 92
69.38
76. i«
80.69
82.43
80.69
79.80
72.36
63.00
57.96
69.23
81.27
71.72
60.07
70.57
1834....
55.08
64.43
66.06
68.35
75.42
82.36
81.69
78.67
78.72
69.94
80.91
1836....
80.31
82.38
78.10
68.46
57.47
53.42
68.01
1837...
51.65
55.33
59.01
65.53
73.19
78.63
79.82
81.45
76.86
70.21
62.44
58.28
65.91
79 98
69.84
55 42
67.79
1838....
56.86
53.36
58 78
65.06
68.38
74.72
77.56
76.71
74.90
74.27
63.38
56.77
64.01
76.33
70.85
55.33
66.63
1839...
55.01
61.33
62.62
62.67
69 83
78.97
78.45
79.08
77.96
71.45
58.01
49.57
64.71
78.83
69.14
55.30
66.99
1840....
73.30
56.03
49.39
1
1841....
56.86
51.^
59.22
63,89
66.14
75.19
80.37
79.16
78.22
69.16
61.27
58.77
63.08
78.24
69.55
55.62
66.63
1843....
59.89
60.62
70.07
71.96
64.51
77.52
75.76
76.38
78.11
69.79
62.90
55.36
68.85
76.55
70.27
58.62
68.82
1843....
58.50
58.09
55.12
67.50
71.56
77.05
80.01
78.58
79.60
70.77
67.06
59.09
64.73
78.55
72.48
58.56
68.77
1844....
57 02
57.21
61.82
69.51
74.15
77.72
80.96
79.33
76.93
■ 70.92
67.33
56.03
68.49
79.34
71.73
56.75
69.10
1845....
59.32
59.18
63.68
71.60
72.95
79.69
82.83
77.78
72.87
61 92
50.25
69.41
70.85
56.25
1846....
57.50
56.75
64.12
69.05
75.07
77.82
69.41
1849....
79.14
80.20
83.14
80.82
1851....
63.70
64.32
09.33
74.86
79.14
80.55
80.54
77.48
73.35
65.18
57.45
69.50
80.07
72.00
1852....
49.26
60.31
63.34
1
Mean )
aoy'rs f
57.03
59.94
68.78
73.50
79.64
80.90
80.56
78.60
72.42
63.58
57.26
68 54
80.37
71.53
58.08
69.63
FORT SHANNON, PILATKA, EAST FLORIDA.
Latitude 29° 34', Longitude 81° 48'. Altitude 2a feet.
1838*...
63.53
53.44
63.66
82.54
ffi.55
78.74
66.98
60.60
52.91
68.77
56.63
1839....
53.31
56.07
60.11
65.83
75.07
81.41
80.25
79.71
77.07
72.23
60.74
48.08
67.00
80.46
70.01
52.49
67.49
1840....
55 .<M
64.40
70.58
75.80
78.02
81.90
81.97
82.25
78.91
75.63
60.75
57.31
74.80
83.04
71.76
58.92
71.88
1841....
59.23
56.42
63. K
71.13
78.20
78.93
83.45
81.90
79.13
68.00
62 14
59.83
70 88
81.43
69.76
58.49
70.14
1842....
*7.89
62.36
69.34
72.00
75.00
80.00
78.65
75.36
79.30
69.50
62.13
55.14
72.11
77.97
70 31
58.46
69.71
1843....
S8.97
57.04
.58.80
70.86
75.90
79.08
80 30
79.45
68.52
79.61
1819....
62.56
62.62
1850....
52.87
Mean I
6 y'ni f
57.26
58.29
64.14
71.13
76.60
80.26
81.20
80.33
78.63
70.47
61.50
56.00
70.62
80.56
70.20
57.18
69.64
* At Fort lieileman, thirty miles northward, and at the same distance as Fort Shannon from the sea, from October, 1838, to December, 1839, and for the
first three niontlis of 1841.
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
527
PICOLATA AND FORT HEILEMAN, FLORIDA; AND FORT HENDERSON, GEORGLi.
Latitude 29° 48', Longitude 80° 45'.*
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
p. 1840.
76.95
74.61
61.00
57.61
70.85
P. 1841.
61.21
56.80
64.30
72.60
73.46
78.60
81.70
80.50
79.10
70.12
80.27
71.57
58.54
70.12
H. 1838.
61.40
53.40
62.60
66.98
60.60
52.91
55.90
H. 1839.
53.31
56.07
60.11
65.83
75.07
81.41
80.25
79.71
77.07
72 23
60.74
48.08
67.00
80.46
70.01
K.49
67.49
II. 1840.
51.35
59.90
67.10
74.26
76.58
82.34
70.91
57.38
54.82
72.65
S@.36
H. 1841.
59.23
56.42
63.32
71.65
74.48
69.82
II-nl838
^
...
67.33
59.33
54.50
H'nl839
55.64
58.27
64.46
70.52
76.26
82.03
80.16
79 76
77.54
70.41
80.65
68.07
56.14
68.82
H. mean
56.32
56.45
64.28
70.58
75.38
81.88
80.25
79.71
77.07
70.04
69.57
51.94
70.08
80.61
72.23
54.90
69.46
•The latitude of Fort Heileman is the same, the longitude 82° 05' j Fort Henderson, latitude 30° 51', longitude W 09".
NEW SMYRNA, EAST FLOHLDA.
Latitude 28° 54', Longitude 81° 02'. Altitude 20 feet.
* At Fort Mellon, a few miles inland, from May, 1841, to March, 1842.
FORT PIERCE, (CAPRON,) EAST FLORIDA.
Latitude 27° 30', Longitude 80° 20'. Altitude 30 feet.
FORT DALL.VS,= EAST FLORIDA.
Latitude 25° 55', Longitude 80° 20'. Altitude 20 feet.
1840....
64.35
66.33
65.55
75.05
72.76
78.64
78.56
78.32
78.06
72.77
69.33
64.53
71.12
78.51
73.39
65.07
72.02
1841*...
64.81
63.15
65.60
74.21
78.81
81.70
79.50
77.83
70.50
65.00
62.50
80.00
71.11
63.49
1843....
63.00
65.00
72.50
1853....
.57.44
60.48
66.64
72.15
76.76
79.07
79.05
78 60
78.59
72.62
71.85
78.91
Mean...
62.40
63.74
67.57
73.60
74.34
78.84
79.77
78.81
78.16j
71.96
67.17
63.51
71.80
79.14
72.43
63.23
71.65
1840....
64.27
66.77
69.33
74.08
76.44
78.62
79.61
?8.95
78.65
75.89
64.41
61.51
73.28
79.06
72.65
64.18
72.29
1841....
65.46
62.51
67.76
71.92
75.83
71.00
64.67
62.71
73.56
1842....
72.50
74.25
76.50
1851....
71.53
61.83
1852....
54,91
64.97
69.82
71.23
78.68
80.06
80.02
81.96
79. S4
75.81
70.78
70.24
73.24
80.68
75.51
63.37
73.20
1853....
60.03
62.83
73.77
79.27
81.82
81.03
86.21
85.23
81.61
74.54
74.07
59.21
78.29
84.16
76.74
60.69
74.97
1854....
67.91
67.33
73.01
71.10
78.41
82.09
84.16
83.37
83.18
77.72
65.90
60.30
74.17
83.21
75.60
65.18
74.54
1855....
63.90
63.24
64.91
73.63
76.92
Mean...
62.75
64.43
69.77
79.02
82.50
83.38
80.85
75.00
68.56
62.63
73,44
81.30
74.80
63.37
73.20
1839....
68.44
71.77
72.82
79.15
82.41
81.11
83.61
78.75
78.51
71.87
63.07
74.58
83.04
76.38
1840....
65.07
69.12
72.53
77.91
78.92
81.63
82.24
81.63
79.50
78.20
67.59
64.75
76.45
81.83
75.10
66.31
74.93
1841....
68.71
65.4''.
70.31
75.25
75.67
78.62
81.40
78.42
77.45
73.74
79 48
1850....
79.06
79.22
80 50
83.74
84.45
82.64
77.17
74.36
72.57
83.90
78.06
1855....
65.35
63.24
66.73
72.82
76.90
79.71
73.15
Mean..
66.38
66.56
70.45
75.57
77.97
80.57
82.12
81.80 1
79.59
77.96
71.27
66.80
74.66
81.50
76.27
66.58
74.75
*At
distance
Fort Lauderdale from January to September, 1839, and from July to September, 1840. This post is a few miles nortli of Fort OaUus, and at the same
from the sea.
528
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
KEY WEST, FLOItlDA.
Latitude 24° 32', Longitude 81° 48'. Altitude Id feet.
FORT MYERS, SOUTH FLORIDA.
Lcditti.de 26° 38', Longitude 82° 00'. Altitude 50 feet.
FORT BROOKE, TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA.
Latitude 28° 00', Longiitide 82° 28'. Altitude 20 feet.
I8S5....
60.41
64.61
67.39
1826....
. 57.31
69.. M
72.90
1827....
56.86
09.68
70.47
1828....
,69.77
71.51
64.51
1829....
59.82
62.21
60.12
1830....
61.08
63.55
67.53
IKil....
se.o.i
60.09
68.19
1832....
60.73
"0.01
66.45
1837....
1838....
64.99
59.61
64.71
1839....
61.91
61.86
e.'i.sa
1840...,
57.89
65.51
68.37
72.70
7^70
80.71
80.72
78 99
78.46
76.90
70.50
58.70
72.60
60.14
75.29
61.34
74.77
79.74
79.11
81.55
80.06
81.57
76.27
66.7S
60.21
75.80
80.24
74.86
62.39
75.38
78.04
81.35
82.85
82,73
81.16
74.79
69.42
67.62
74.63
82.31
75,12
64 72
69.84
76.07
80.47
81.17
81.70
79.33
73.94
68.28
69.98
70.14
81.11
73.85
70.42
80.08
81.49
79.87
75.80
62.90
07.40
73.86
03.14
71 27
77.40
81.51
82.40
81.67
79.25
74.29
70.36
65.59
72.07
81.86
74.63
63.41
72.27
74.67
79.64
81.06
81.09
81.15
75.55
67.69
59.60
71.71
80.60
74.80
58.58
70.55
77.38
80.71
71.46
84.11
81.09
78.93
75.00
66.95
63.96
73.63
70.08
73.30
78 07
78 29
78.85
77.50
72.3-2
67.0-1
61.93
69.00
78.40
72 32
62.18
71.59
T7.88
81.23
81.46
g2.43
80.56
77.19
68.39
54.75
71.60
81.71
75.38
59.61
75.87
76.00
78.11
77.71
78.50
76.86
73.04
63.31
59.15
73.41
78,17
71.07
60.85
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
SuDimer
Autumn Winter.
1
Vear.
1831....
67.-19
69.38
75.08
75.96
77.26
80.39
81.88
81.57
81.44
77 97
75.32
69.58
76.10
81.28
78.24
68.82
76.11
1832....
68.40
74.38
72,35
75,42
80.17
80,62
83.28
80.54
80.38
75.55
71.14
70.56
75.98
81.48
75.69
71.08
76.06
1833....
68.25
71.67
72,03
68.47
69.46
1834....
71.94
ra,20
74,32
74.03
78.07
82.98
82.53
82.96
80.91
76.76
70.78
70.52
75.47
83.83
76.15
71.55
76.50
1835....
67.57
64,45
71.16
74.88
78.60
80.83
81.96
81.30
79.66
73.95
75.74
68.39
74.88
81.36
J6.42
66.80
74.87
1836....
79.38
82.16
81,67
1837....
66.22
68.80
70.77
73,12
77.90
81.35
82.35
82.01
81.00
77.85
76.13
70.29
73.93
81.90
78,33
68.44
75.65
1838....
71.14
68.30
70.62
73,37
77.02
79 55
82.15
sa.83
81.72
78.54
73.44
70.22
73.67
81.51
77,90
69.89
75.74
1843....
78.14
81.23
84,02
85.24
84.17
82,12
79.89
77.00
72,88
84.48
79 69
1844....
......
68.70
70.96
75.00
78,93
61,34
83.64
83.94
83.50
78.80
77.29
69.23
74,96
82.97
79.86
18-15....
69.98
68.90
74,06
77,05
78,63
80,68
83.52
76.58
18-19....
84,17
82,96
78,98
1850....
85.34
84.78
83.15
77,41
73.54
74.17
!
78.03
.......
1851....
73.85
74.52
74.02
77,18
79 57
81.79
83.48
83.64
81.31
79,80
75.46
69.96
76,92
82.97
78.85
72.77
77.68
1852....
61,20
70.02
74.37
76,06
80.38
82.81
83.42
83,86
82.07
79,38
76.19
74.93
76.90
83.36
79.21
68.72
77.05
1853....
68,01
71,30
74.08
76,14
79.87
80.48
83.47
83,93
, 82.56
80.41
75.76
68.44
76.60
K!.61
79.58
69.35
77.01
1854 ...
71.75
71 95
76.. 56
73.89
80.84
83.34
83.30
82,59
62.. le
78.24
72.70
66.39
77.10
83.08
77.83
70.031 77.01
1855....
67.18
65.94
70.28
75.09
79.13
82.74
74.83
•
t— ••
Mean )
14y'rs 5
66,68
69.88
73.88
75.38
79.10
81.63
es.oo
, 82,90
81.92
78.11
74 66
^.03
75.79
^.51
78.23
09,19
76,43
*
«
1851....
65.45
69.03
69.89
73.88
78.68
79.59
81.71
TT-
83.41
■ *-
80.40
78.29
72.74
64.59
74.15
81,57
77.14
66.35
74.80
1852...,
58,16
68,01
73.55
74.28
81.95
82.41
83.50
82.93
82.89
78.40
74.07
72.43
76,59
82.94
78.45
66.19
76.04
1853....
63,59
67,51
71,57
76.23
80.76
80.66
84.38
84.43
81.12
77.65
72.50
61.70
76.19
83.16
77.09
64.27
75.18
1854....
67.56
67 39
73.74
71.07
79 13
82,35
81.91
81.85
82.59
76.72
66.70
60,18
74.65
82.04
75.34
65.04
74.27
Mean
4yr's.
63.39
67.98
72.19
73.86
80,13
81.25
82.87
83,15
81,75
77.76
71,. 50
64,72
75.39
82.41
77.00
65.36
75.04
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
529
FORT BROOKE, TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA— Continued.
Latitude 28° 00', Longitude %1° 28'. Altitude 2Q feet.
1&41..
1843..
1843..
1844..
1845..
1846..
184T..
18)8..
1849..
1830..
1651..
1852..
1853..
1854..
Jan.
Feb. , iMarcli. April. ' May. June. July.
63.10
62.87
62.30
61.02
63.00
.59.71
65.05
63.31
63.61
70.45
52.70
58.93
62.94 I
^0.06
64.. 14
59.92
60.2.)
60.82
62.08
60.98
63.42
61 39
64.64
62.56
64.79
63.36
Mean j
25y'rs j
61.53 63.54
66.72
72.10
62.67
63.53
67.25
66.58
63.29
67.45
71.60
70 ^
70.26
69.83
70.06
<2.12
71.08
72,56
70.70
73.91
72.15
72.83
71.32
72.41
73.62
72.27
70.96
73.81
70.07
67.34 72.aS
74.21
70.39
74.90
77.87
75.24
76.47
74 37
76.50
79.22
T6.4I
76.46
77.66
78.13
77.49
78.59
79.57
76.55
76.66
79.56
79.31
81,09
78.25
80.71
78.61
78,66
79.43
78.79
80.51
80.64
78.47
77.35
80.63
79.42
79.88
80.66
83.46
81.70
80.86
80.16
79.61
83.52
81.08
Aug.
76.64 I 79.46 80.72
79.05
79.01
76.90
78.67
79.18
80.01
81.16
80.71
83.^
81.74
80.22
80.08
83.47
'79,59
Sept.
78.95
78.91
77.75
77.35
77.59
79.24
79.00
80.22
81.96
81.56
76.33
79 04
79.78
80.71
79.35
69.S6
71.80
70.05
72.24
72 74
73.02
74.70
75.83
72.02
73.87
76.07
75.55
73.83
74.02
Nov.
64.70
64.47
68.85
69.64
63.62
66.10
67.83
63.17
69,37
66.61
67.82
71.90
62.11
Dec.
63.08
61.42
63.00
55.10
55.74
63.35
55.70
71.59
70.05
58.81
66.34
58.13
56.52
66.94 . 61.99
Spring.
Summer ,
71.02
79.43
73.19
-».(«
70.01
76.93
70.70
78.65
72.13
79.39
71.73
79.73
70.83
80.98
71.74
80.80
74.41
81.88
73.65
80.40
79.68
72.96
79.37
73.92
81.26
72.54
I
80.39
■1
, 73.08
80.30
.Autumn Winter. Year.
I
63.37 I 68,79
62.94
61.74
T1.73
72.32
73.08
70.98
73.79
59.51
61.71
73.84 60 58 1
65.77
75.72 65.02
72.27
74.01 60.53
75 74 60.62
72.33 60.61
70.40
71.72
70.22
70.30
70.50
71.49
71.56
74.26
71.72
72.88
71.44
1
73.44 62.35 72.48
FORT MEADE, FLORIDA.
Latitude 28° 01', Longitude 82° 00'. Altitude 80 feet.
1851...,
1&V2....
1853...,
1854...,
52.10
59.36
63.75
Mean...! 58.40
76.35
79.32
80.24
80.82
63.54
69.32
70.38
77.96
78.88
79.62
80.54
63 83
67.09
71 19
76.16
75.65
79.01
7^.76
63.33
70.64
68.10
76.31
79.10
80.17
80.00
63.23
69.02
«69.89
76.69
78.24
79.76
80.03
76.49 72.57
78.80 73.82
80.39 ! 74.44
81.15 ' 74,40
79.18 73 81
65.89
57.68
68.16
68.59
69.60
56.98
1
70.37
68.48
61.08 ;
I 80.13 71.64
73.5.". 79.68 ! 73.59
71.48 ■ 77.84 | 74.78
71.68 ' 79.75 ' 73.27
59 72
71.87
79.34
73.82 60.90
61.41 { 71.81
70.96
1.48
FORT MICANOPY, FLORIDA.
Latitude 29° 30', Longitude 82° 28'. Altitude 60.? feet.
1838....
80.99
81.63
77.13
61.92
ii8.il
1839....
68.20
60.00
63.07
70.27
77.42
83.91
81.23
80.47
78.51
72.81
63.14
52.48
" 70.25
81. B7
71.49
60 23
70.96
1840...
55.59
64.78
69.90
77.46
78.21
78.64
76.80
77.64
75.85
73.35
60.00
55.89
75.19
77.69
69.73
58.75
70.34
63.36
1841....
62.10
56.15
64.30
67.83
73.96
77.63
81.68
78.45
78.10
66.50
57.77
55.81
68.70
79.25
67.46
58.02
1842....
56.10
60.82
72.33
72.56
76.90
76.93
79.40
78.51
79.87
77.89
69.30
63.20
57.10
73.60
78.28
70.46
58.01
70.09
Mean )
44 y-rs f
60.50
60,44
67.40
72.03
76.62
79.28
80.02
79,34
70 49
61.01
56.00
72. K)
79.55
69.80
58.98
70.09
S. 96 R7
530
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT KING, FLORIDA.
Latitude 29° 10', Longitude 82° 10'. Altitude 50/eet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
.\utiunn
Winter.
Year.
1832....
75.14
66.44
63.05
1633....
60.23
63.45
65.00
74.01
79.56
85.26
84.70
84.75
81.43
72.55
61.15
56.83
72.86
84.90
71.71
60.17
72.41
1834....
61.39
67.li;
66.11
72.62
78.10
84.61
83.34
82.51
81.62
72.96
62.81
61.68
72.27
83.49
72.46
63.39
72.90
1835....
56.78
52.86
61.20
70.47
78.17
•78.41
77.93
78.71
74.23
68.76
68.58
56.67
69.95
78.35
70.52
55.44
68.56
1836....
56 92
5-1.. '>0
61.71
1837....
81.26
79.35
74.93
1840....
61.53
55.83
1841....
60.14
r.5.98
62.52
68.07
71.72
74.95
80.94
78.74
77.33
66.20
59.56
57.21
67.44
78.21
67.70
57.78
67.78
1842....
57.39
58.50
69.65
71.90
74.38
75. V8
75.85
76.50
79.56
67.75
62.28
58.56
71.98
76.04
69.86
!)8.15
69.01
1M3....
56.49
55.04
Mean )
6 y'ra. (■
58.48
58.21
64.36
71.41
76.39
79.78
80.80
80.09
78.18
70.56
63.19
58.55
70.72
- 80.S2
70.64
58.41
70.00
* " Position of thcrmoniPtcr elianged in May. (1835,) to n more favorable one. In June, received a new thermometer, which ranged 2° lower than the old
one." — ^issistant Surgeon Robert ^•irchcr.
FORTS HARLEE, RUSSELL, WHEELOCK, HOLMES, AND WACAHOOTEE, INTERIOR OF FLORIDA.
H. 1838
......
85.33
85.92
77.95
R. IMO
57.11
R. 1841
63.00
58.00
66.00
7-J.OO
77.00
79.00
84.00
81.50
78.00
67.49
59.78
59.69
71 67
81.50
68.42
60.23
70.46
R. 1842
60.60
56.00
74.00
71.17
74.00
79.21
73.06
Wh 1841
62.40
56.40
64.60
81.90
81.09
79.40
69.70
62.68
59.33
70.59
59.38
H's 1S41
62.75
57.64
64.48
71.50
73.58
78.40
69.85
Wal841
61.00
56.00
64.00
69.67
ra.oo
75.00
80.00
78.00
77.00
63.67
59.. -a
56.33
68.56
77.67
64.00
57.78
67.00
Wal842
57.25
55.07
70)12
Note.— These posts are in the vicinity of Forts King and Micanopy. Their local topngmphv is similar to that of theae and other posts in the interior of
Florida. •
CEDAR KEYS. FLORIDA.
Latitude 29° 07', Longitude 83° 03'. Altitude So feet.
1840...
81.29
80.45
78.03
76.03
60.76
57.00
71.61
1841....
59.33
57.08
63.90
70.12
76.36
78.43
82.70
81.00
78.78
68.38
63.21
57.80
70.11
80.71
70.12
58.07
69.75
1842...
57.77
59.79
67.42
69.66
73.14
76.66
76.90
76.66
80.16
71.07
62.91
58 23
70.05
76.74
71.38
58.60
69.19
Mean...
58.55
59.46
65.66
69.86
74.72
77.55
80.30
79.37
78.99
71.83
62.29
57.68
70.08
79.07
71.04
58.22
69.60
FORT WACASSASSA.o ILORIDA.
1840....
.....
73.39
57.83
54.84
1841....
61.58
57.53
65.65
71.90
73.84
76.80
81.42
80.78
78.16
66.90
59.80
57.13
70.46
79.67
68.29
58.75
69.89
1842....
55.97
58.25
68.10
69.00
73.^
77.43
76.90
77.93
78.77
68.85
61.46
58.06
70.11
77.42
69.69
57.43
68.66
Mean. . .
.58.78
57.89
66.87
70.45
73.53
77.11
79.66
79.85
78.46
69.71
59.70
55.68
70.28
78.87
69.29
57.45
68.97
• .^boul thirty miles northeast from Cedar Keys. Fort Fniining is at the same distance north northeast on the Suwance river.
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
531
FORT FANNING, FLORIDA.
Latitude 29° 35', Longitude 83° 00'. Altitude 50 feet.
1
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April. 1
May.
Juin".
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Not.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer Autumn
Winter.
Year.
IS40...
1841...
iii4a...
62.20
57.16
56.82
59.71
63.64
70.35
70.90
70.44
75.68
75.64
78.50
79.75
83.35
79.75
84.01
80.38
79.45
81.45
71.38 :
74.52
70.50
58.03
63.33
60.50
50.26
60.03
54.81
70.07
72.14
81.95
79.96
72.43
70.81
59.68
57.23
71.03
70.03
Mean. .
j 59.68
58.26
67.00
70.67
75.66
79.12
81.55,
82.20
80.45
72.13
60.62 ^
55.03
71.11
80.96
,1.07
57.66 1
70.20
FORTS PLEASANT AND GAMBLE, MIDDLE FLORIDA. =
p. 1841.
81.74
80.71
78.30
67.80
61.67
58.97
69.26
P. itwa.
59.13
61.71
73.90
72.10
76.71
82.33
79.88
79.93 '
81.13
!
74.24
60.71
G. 1840.
52.95
61.25
65. K
71.29
73.85
78.37
78.70
79.02
70.32
78.70 t
G. 1841.
79.44
81.20
80.85
78.00
66.90
61.62
54.71
80.50
68.84
G. 1842
58.11
59.85
70.90
70.77
76.50
81.30
76.93
78.33
"8.41
67.93
57.35
53.58
72.72
78.85
67.90
57.18
69.16
Mean...
55.53
60.55
68.36 1
71.03
■ 75.17
79.70
78.94
79.40
78.20
67.41
59.48
54.64
1
71.52
79.35
68.36
56.91
69.04
* These posts are from ten to thirty miles southeast from Tallahassee, and ten to twenty miles from the Gulf coast at .\palachee bay. Lat. 30° 20', long. 84°.
FORT BARRANCAS, PENSACOLA, FLORIDA."
Latitude 30° 18', Longitude 87° 27'. Altitude '20/eei.
1822....
51.85
51.34
61.47
68.82
77.78
84 16
81.87
82.22
77.92
69.87
65.66
54.49
69.36
82.75
71.22
52.56
68.97
1823 ...
53.16
50.49
63.41
70.62
79.36
79.72
81.ffi>
81.42
77.90
68.96
55.62
56.51
71.13
81.02
67.49
33.39
68.26
1824....
55.62
53.80
65.88
67. a-)
75.79
81.30
83.35
82.86
77.00
68.73
61.44
35.98
69.34
82.57
69.06
55.13
69.02
1826....
51.45
58.71
67.46
70.72
78.08
79 96
82.88
81.90
78.57
72.03
62.73
54.50
72.09
81.58
71.11
54.89
69.92
1827....
51.36
64.10
63.23
72.13
72.12
81.39
84.62
82.15
76.87
68.99
62.37
62.06
69.16
82.79
70.08
59.17
70.98
1828....
62.30
61.13
62.94
65.55
76.13
81.04
82.20
82.20
76.2!
69.53
62.00
62.00
68.21
81.85
69.25
61.81
70.28
1^9....
54.76
52.27
56.07
65.12
73.93
82.94
83 68
83.14
81.94
73.75
59.29
60.94
65.04
83.25
71.66
55.99
68.73
1842....
81.10
80.66
76.86
71.42
61.46
55.27
69.91
1813....
56.25
54.96
52.14
70.03
75.58
79.86
80.32
80.12
82.53
68.56
64.90
56.09
65.92
80.10
71.99
53.77
68.44
1&14....
56.27
57.41
60.90
69.62
78.44
80.43
83.64
80.75
77.93
68.76
63.11
52.43
69.65
81.61
69.94
55.37
69.14
1845....
54.96
56.17
60.74
70.86
73.54
79.26
81.40
56.91
45.37
68.38
52.17
1646 ...
52.11
53.53
62.02
66.90
80.27
79.92
78.60
67.91
61.93
57.82
69.48
54.49
1847....
50.80
54.02
57.69
69.28
71.82
66.26
1849....
58.20
53.09
66.62
68. »2
74.56
79.96
79.36
' 69.73
1851....
54.00
58.98
60.94
67.96
74.66
80.73
83.04
81.37
76.68
58.83
52.40
67.85
81.71
55.12
1852....
44.16
57.15
81.48
80.28
77.85
71.35
60.00
61.64
69.73
51.32
1853....
49.37
54.69
62.30
69.27
74.45
79.42
81.38
81.49
76.83
51.71
68.67
80.76
1854....
54.71
54.56
64.98
62.93
73.40
81.00
84.55
84.10
81.44
71.34
58.89
49.60
67.77
83.22
70.S6
SS.96
68.63
Mean )
17y'rsf
53.61
55.58
61.80
68.51
75.45
80.80
82.26
81.64
78.47
70.08
61.02
55.57
68.59
81.57
69.86
54.92
68.74
• The first seven years of this series were observed at Cantonment Clinch, three miles from Pensacola, and fourteen from Barrancas, which is at the entrance
of the harbor.
532
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT MORGAN, ALABAMA.
Latitude 30° 14', Longitude 88° 00'. Altitude 2Qfeet.
MOUNT VERNON ARSENAL, ALABAMA.
Latitude 31° 12', Longitude 88° 02'. Altitude 2m? feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
.\utumn
Winter.
Year.
1835....
55.52
46.20
55.41
64.04
75.65
77.56
80.06
80.31
75.46
65.03
79.31
1841....
82.00
1842....
64.16
74-18
79.91
63.34
80.30
79.06
71.26
59.00
52.00
80.85
69.77
1843....
54.88
54.17
51.16
68.43
76.70
80.08
81.06
52 00
65.43
Mean..
55.19
50.18
53.28
65.54
75.61
79 19
81.50
80.30
77.26
71.26
59.00
64.81
80.33
69.17 53.68
67.00
1840....
78.83
74.12
67.65
55.92
50.53
65.93
1841....
50.50
53.00
58.00
67.00
72.25
77.00
65.75
1842....
66.50
67.12
73.00
78.50
76.70
75.50
74.60
65.82
55.03
49.05
68.87
76 90
65.15
1843....
52.50
.i0.70
47.70
69.50
75.30
76.66
82 35
78.21
78.86
63.61
59.56
49.61
64.17
79.07
67.34
50.94
65.33
1844...
77.51
78.42
81.17
78.16
73.97
62.65
57 07
47.40
79.25
64.56
lt!4S....
51.30
53.14
55.73
70.49
73.59
80.08
81.36
81.04
74.30
62.62
53.03
42.53
66.60
80.83
63.32
48.99
64.93
1846....
48.93
50.63
61.57
64.18
72.72
76.52
77.43
78.19
77.60
65.17
58.87
57.23
66.16
77.38
67.21
52.26
65.75
1847....
47.40
55.02
57.09
69.99
70.53
77.90
77.08
77.33
71.45
66 30
57.84
47 U
65.87
77.44
65.20
49.84
64.57
1848....
52.98
56.61
60.44
64.50
73.95
74.89
78.22
77.82
72.76
65.59
51.19
57.98
66.30
76.98
63.18
55.86
65.58
1849....
53 00
49.86
65.14
64.75
72.50
76 90
76.27
79.05
74.60
64.21
58.90
54.22
67.46
77.41
65.87
52.36
65.77
1850....
56.30
51.66
61.55
66.61
73.18
76.90
79.89
81.61
78.33
66.96
55.57
52.04
07.11
79.47
66.95
53.33
66.72
1851....
51.26
57.04
59.12
67 52
74.89
79.83
81.82
79 22
75.53
66 83
54 79
49.82
67.17
80.29
65.71
52 71
66.47
1652....
42.15
59.55
64.17
64.42
76.43
79.60
82.29
82.14
79.01
70.58
56.87
59.51
68.34
81.34
68.82
53.74
68.06
1653....
47.48
53.84
61.22
70 96
74.31
79.86
78.55
80.44
75.70
65.88
61.10
47.31
68.83
79.62
67.56-
49.54
66.39
1854....
51.52
53 18
65.24
62.30
74.64
79.17
78.90
81.17
79.58
69.17
54.76
49.22
67.39
79.75
67.84
51.31
66.57
Me.nn I
Hy'rsf
50.44
53.69
60.26
66.87
73.92
78.03
78.62
79.19
75.03
65.93
56.47
51.04
67.02
78.68
65.81
51.72
65.81
BAY OF ST. LOUIS, PASS CHRISTIAN, AND EAST PASCAGOULA, MISSISSIPPI.^
SlL.1833
StL. 183-1
SlL.1835
C.
1843
c.
1844
c.
1845
p.
1848'
p.
1849
p.
1850
p.
18.il
j
p.
1852
p.
1853
Mean . .
68.80
78.76
75.80
78.11
78 92
77.56 80.94 82 87
84.54
63.08
79 07
81.76
82.92
82.70
85.17
83.98
82.63
81. 4U I 79.19
82.80 I 78 91
80.23 I 75.30
80.00 I 80.00
81.80 ' 78.68
79.85
85.10
86.08
84.05
83.25
S4.31
74.31
81.01
83.44
80.46
80.89
60.10
79.11
67.95
68.45
70.11
69.78
55.88
66.00
.07 60.94
79.41
84.09
* Tliese are ,-umiiicr stations for troops stationed at New Orleans and otiier posts of the vicinity, and tlieir po.«ition and e.\posure are so nearly alike as to
permit combination of the observations in one result. Past Christian in latitude 30' 20', longitude 89" 25' ; East Pascagoula^ latitude 30" 20', longitude 88* 42'.
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
533
FORT PIKE, LOUISIANA.
Latitude 30° 10', Longitude 89° 38'. Altitude lO/eet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
AprU.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
.Vov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn Winter.
Year.
18-24....
...^..
09.88
1835....
S-2.43
57.94
68.45
68 79
78.60
81.93
83 62
85.48
78.11
71.95
83.68
1826....
....
85.09
84.26
79.87
73.. W
63.64
35.11
72.02
1827....
50.81
65.08
62.66
72.15
73.19
83 61
81.50
82.41
80.63
69.19
62.53
62.74
69.33
83.51
70.78
59.54
70.79
1828....
60.00
64.67
64.33
70.47
79.08
83 43
83.26
83.32
78.62
74.04
67.03
64.28
71.29
83.34
73.23
62.98
72.71
1833....
55.63
51.17
58.55
63.78
75.52
82.72
82.90
83.33
81.51
72.28
60.84
61.13
66.62
83.00
71 ..M
55.98
60.28
1830....
57.51
59.56
68.17
71.60
77.63
82.05
85.10
84.83
81.36
72.99
67.99
59.52
72.47
83.99
74.18
58.20
72.21
1831....
49.31
51.54
65.77
69.45
74.46
80.97
83.24
80.48
78.17
70.91
63.49
47.27
69.89
81.56
70.86
49.37
67.ie
1832....
54.57
65.27
63.52
71.21
77.90
80.58
82.26
63.83
78.21
73.10
60.11
59.42
70.88
82. S
70.14
59.75
70.75
1833....
58.76
60 ai
62.10
72. S9
78.79
82.76
82.63
81.11
81.32
67.87
61.02
56.37
71.29
82.17
70.07
.58.45
70.49
1834....
51.41
58.88
64.57
71.26
76.44
82.93
83.13
84.28
78.22
73.11
62.69
56.67
70.76
83.45
71.01
55.65
70.22
1835....
54.37
47.21
.•iB.lo
67.49
BU.21 ,
82.42
69.90
64.89
55.54
68.62
52.37
1836....
55. U
55.17
60.77
.. ..;
1S38....
62.33
51.09
63.79
72.93
71 89
83.16
85.46 '
85.19
78.05
1842....
79.20
79.00
75.75
67.84
57.76
31.06
67.12
1843....
52.47
52.30
49.63
71.40
77.60
80.10
81.45
81.43
79.80
67.75
64.65
54.70
es.sa
81.00
70.73
53.16
67.78
1844....
56.20
57.55
61.53
72.11
81.10
81.47
85.06
62.29
78.33
67.07
59.60
52.66
71.60
82.94
68.33
55.47
69.58
1845....
55.29
57.70
61.65
73.64
75.96
82.59
83.97
45.38
70.42
52.7'J
1846....
49.98
54.51
63.83
67.03
1
^
Mean 1
14 y'rs f
54.76
56.86
62.34
70.53
77.03
82.19
83.39
82.94
79.16
70.33
62.80
55.77
69.97
82.84
70.83
55.60
69.86
FORT WOOD, LOUISIANA.
Latitude 30° 08', Longitude 89° 51'. Altitude 20 feet.
NEW ORLEANS, LOLTSIANA.
Latitude 29° 57', Longitude 90° 00'. Altitude 10 feet.
1832....
78.02
83.00
82.27
77.62
73.00
62.28
57.65
70.63
1833....
59.55
60.32
60.38
70.88
82.51
83.56
83.18
81.26
66.20
58.05
54.23
69.76
83.08
65.17
58.10
69.03
1834....
50.48
61 26
63.79
71.29
75.93
82.93
70.00
■'>.•■•
1835....
51.65
49.64
60.43
68.00
79.54
81.80
81.07
83.01
75.58
69.93
63.71
5.1.87
69 33
81.96
70.08
51.54
68.38
1843....
54.58
52.38
51.41
71.12
78.30
78.24
81.43
80.21
80.58
68.20
65.15
55.90
66.94
79.97
71.31
54.29
68.13
1844....
57.60
58.36
1
61.62
72.12
79.92
81.59
84.28
^.03
79.07
68.20
61.81
53.42
71.22
82.63
69.69
56.46
70.00
1845....
55.59
58.05
61.33
73.49
73.76
80.76
82.60
82.15
78.21
67.03
70.19
81.84
1846....
. 53.93
54.83
62.40
69.29
Mean I
ety'rsf
54.77
58.44
60.19
70.88
77.91
81.30
83.66
83.14
78.90
68.60
62.20
55.01
69.66
82.03
69.90
55.41
69.25
1825....
53.26
53.33
67.80
1826....
53.20
63.27
70.71
1827....
56.74
66.85
64.31
1828....
64.58
66.01
65.34
18K....
1833....
55..37
00.33
C0.71
1834....
66.90 I 81.82
72.54 77.61 '
73.03 ' 74.00
66.50 74.23
88.54
83.24
82 65
78.64
82.95
84.33
84.16
85.15
82.75
SJ.52
80.17
80.64
77.65
72.97
67.57
62.60
65.55
62.04
70.74 63.08 59.10
44.04
58.28
62.00
72.17
73.62
70.11
85.27
84.18
81.30
50.21
58.25
61.88
72.27
534
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
NEW ORLEANS, LOOISLAN A— Continued.
Latitude 29° 57', Longitude 90° 00'. Altitude 10/eet.
FORTS ST. PHILIP AND JACKSON, LOUISIANA, o
Latitude 29° 25', Longitude 89° 30'. At sea level.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
AprU.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Bee.
Spring.
1
Summer Autumn Winter.
Year.
1835....
41.02
50.70
61.29
69.73
65.81
58.11
49.94
1838....
56.61
52.38
64.10
67.19
68.65
82.07
82.47
82.11
77.35
68.39
57.07
62.85
66.65
82.22
67.60
53.95
67.61
1839....
56.22
54.48
60.96
70.98
77.33
83.03
82.48
ffi.25
79.22
75.39
57.40
48.09
69.76
82.59
70.67
52.93
68.99
1840....
55.09
61.77
69.15
74.38
77.30
79.97
85.56
84.96
78.91
74.32
65.66
56.13
73.61
83.50
72.96
57.66
71.93
1841 ...
55.46
55.61
64.81
71.62
76.17
84.35
87.02
83.86
79.48
69.17
61.83
55.40
70.87
85.08
70.16
55.49
70.40
184i2....
56.96
58.50
71.35
69.80
74.96
80.56
80.25
79.58
78.63
69.03
59.06
53.29
72.03
80.13
68.91
56.25
69.33
1643....
55.43
54.16
52.03
70.85
75.79
78.50
68.13
55.77
66.22
80.08
69.03
55.12
67.61
1844....
58.54
59.28
63.55
72.52
78.46
79.80
65.02
57.18
71.51
81.51
70.75
58.33
70.52
1845...
57.25
59.91
62.11
72.75
73.20
79.46
69.35
1846....
61.50
67.16
75.28
80.14
82.73
68.82
63.94
62.14
67.S8
1847....
54.85
57.30
61.90
71.48
76.56
78.75
81.83
82.68
77.85
71.16
64.37
53.25
69.98
81.08
71.13
55.13
69.33
1848....
58.18
61.67
64.33
68.39
76.47
82 86
80.42
81.25
79.51
73.67
59 58
59.43
69.73
81.51
70.92
59.76
70.48
1849....
60.89
56.08
70.17
71.00
76.82
81.08
' 81.10
72.63
1850....
59.31
55.32
63.89
68.13
72.26
76.12
82.54
66.41
60.58
55.49
68.09
56.71
1851....
54 43
59.79
61.64
68.24
69.67
60.89
55.21
56.48
1853....
46.59
62.10
66.96
67.27
74.25
61.37
61.98
56.89
1853....
50.65
56.51
62.70
70.42
74.33
80.23
69.15
Mean
aOy'rs
55.27
58.35
64.15
70.06
75.62
81.11
82.94
82.77
78.94
TO. 75
62.44
55.98
69.94
82.27
70.71
56.53
69.86
StP1826
83.36
80.34
80.83
74.27
64.59
59,50
TJ.23
StP1828
62.81
64.22
60.85
SlP 1831
48.32
48.24
57.20
J. ..1831
82.33
80.07
80.89
71.80
68.05
47.59
73.58
J. ..1832
61.14
67.17
66. K
73.55
78.13
81.52
84.21
83.95
T9.96
76.81
65.87
65.39
72.83
82.89
73.21
64.57
73.62
J.. .1833
64.44
63.17
62.59
61.96
58.75
62.12
J. ..1834
60.58
64. K
65.73
72.16
75.87
82.46
68.95
54.45
63.64
62.85
J. ..1835
59.53
53.30
60.5!
Mean ..
59.47
60 14
62.37
72.86
77.00
81.99
82.97
81.43
80.56
72.96
62.98
58.97
70.78
82.14
72.17
59.53
71.15
• The post' are on opposite sides of the Mississippi river, fifty miles southeast of New Orleans, and twenty miles from the Delta proper.
Gulf is much nearer at the southwest.
BATON KOUGE, LOUISIANA
Latitude 30° 26', Longitude 91° 18'. Altitude 41 feet.
The coast of the '
1822....
52.37
49.71
62.05
67.99
78.16
84.80
81.20
81.07
76.13
66.67
63.94
51.77
, 69.40
82.36
68.92
51.28
67.99
1824....
57.13
51.41
64.90
1825....
49.80
57.58
64.79
!
1828....
71.39
62.81
60.76
1829....
^.SI
49.90
53.57
63.80
74.35
81.87
80.70
80.43
77.17
70.14
57.51
57.31
64.57
81.00
68.27
54.53
67.09
1830....
54.61
57.07
64.81
65.87
73.04
79.47
82.43
82.63
78.31
70.27
63.59
54.62
67.91
81.51
70.72
55.43
68.89
1831....
46.16
48.61
G1.41
66.46
73.00
79,84
80.89
76.58
75.79
66.25
57.67
43.57
66 96
79.10
66.57
46.11
64.68
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
535
BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA— Continned.
Latitude 30° 26', Longitude 91° 18'. Altitude 41 feet.
1 Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1KB...
49.86
61.77
61.00
68.41
75.27
78.55
82.16
81.48
76.19
68.51
58.75
57.98
68.23
80.73
67.ffi!
56.54
68.44
1833...
57.85
58.11
58.62
70.49
77.87
82.63
^83.55
82.31
79.18
63.56
57.56
54.59
68.99
82.83
66.77
56.85
68.61
1834...
50.08
60.56
63.23
70.01
75.69
83.86
83.02
82.29
74,32
68.61
60.00
55. a5
69.64
83.06
67.64
.55.33
68.92
1835...
; 55.19
45.52
56.38
64 89
77.88
81.09
78.43
80.01
73.31
66.39
59.70
54.16
66.38
79.84
66.47
51.62
66.08
1836...
55.11
54.82
56.92
1837...
66.41
76.71
81.61
85.56
85.14
79.25
71.39
65.74
53.79
84.10
72.13
1838...
54.14
45.94
63.71
73.05
72.31
83.86
84.05
83.05
76.82
69.69
83.65
1839...
.'-.4.52
51.19
61.95
74.08
78.96
84.65
82.05
80.23
79.86
65.80
54.18
50.27
71.66
82.31
66.61
51.99
68.14
1840...
55.82
63.59
71.56
77.95
77.59
82.02
81.52
82.44
78.37
75.70
81.99
1843...
55.08
54.50
51.47
72.76
76.98
79.74
82.09
80.80
80.10
65.03
66.46
55.75
67.07
80.78
70.53
55.11
68.37
1844...
57.35
59.49
61.77
77.91
77.10
78.75
81.84
80.34
75.41
66.28
63.43
50.94
70.26
80.28
68.37
55.93
68.71
1845...
.'•)4.79
56.77
59.86
70.99
73.90
79.80
80.92
80.65
76.63
66.23
57.68
47.23
68.25
80.46
66.85
52.93
67.12
1848...
52.00
54.10
62.30
68.07
75.60
78.86
81.37
80.21
80.01
67.13
62.64
59.60
68.66
80.14
69.93
55.23
68.49
1847...
49.84
80.08
80.05
81.04
80.36
1848...
77.40
81.23
82.18
74.65
69.69
54.13
58.04
80.27
66.18
1849...
58.16
54.30
67.81
67.63
79.77
83.42
78.45
68.51
64.18
61.41
70.38
57.96
1850...
64.01
58.51
63.47
72.84
76.90
78.59
84.81
83.67
78.57
65.47
51.17
71.07
82.36
57.90
1851...
52.94
57.16
61.17
67.32
75.21
78.80
81.43
80.19
75.14
65.43
55 06
51.72
67.90
80.14
65.21
53.94
66.80
1852...
42.78
59.81
65.87
64.53
74.42
77.74
79.69
79.17
75.11
68.32
56.00
58.06
68.27
78.86
66.48
53.55
66.79
1853...
47.38
53.62
59.60
68.61
71.65
78.3.')
78.59
79.79
65.82
51.10
66.62
78.91
50.70
1854...
53.43
56.48
66.24
64.63
75.10
80.61
80.09
81.52
78.11
69.95
57.07
52.17
68.66
80.74
68.38
54.03
67.95
Me.in 1
24 y'rs ;
' 53.47
55.02
61.93
69.30
75.60
80.56
81.81
81.26
••
77.14
67.58
59.90
54.15
68.94
81.21
66.21
54.21
68.14
FORT JESUr, LOriSIAXA.
Latitiide 31° 33', Longitude 93° 32'. Altitude 80 ? feet.
1833....
51.00
43.33
60.66
71.57
77 10
77.87
83.04
83.21
75.95
69.81
58.45
57.40
69.78
81.37
68.07
50.58
67.45
1824....
58.98
54.25
63.93
64.44
76.55
84.81
85.93
83.87
77.98
66.03
57.94
56.61
68.30
84 90
67.32
56.61
69.28
1825....
52.69
59 83
64.67
66.97
77.75
80.98
82.79
85.11
77.56
63.77
57.10
45.11
69.80
82.96
66.14
52.54
67.86
1826....
46.82
57.76
68.49
70.23
77.91
79.82
85.45
83.98
76.07
68.75
60.28
52.83
72.21
83.08
68.37
51.80
68.86
1827....
51.05
62.85
60.33
69.54
72.22
81.45
83.62
82.96
81.55
67.17
60.29
57.65
67.36
82.68
69.67
57.18
69.23
1828....
55.64
58.86
61.19
64.97
74.94
82.79
83.33
82.11
73.45
67.75
59.43
54.57
67.03
82.74
66.88
56.36
68.35
1829....
51.79
45.27
53.08
62 34
74.31
80.55
81.20
79.35
77.28
68.56
55.63
53.09
63.24
80.37
67.16
50.05
65.20
1830....
50.44
50.58
62.01
64.42
70.82
79.30
82 93
83.08
77.27
70.10
59.29
48.12
65.75
81.77
68.89
49.71
66.53
1831...
41.43
45.37
59.43
66.07
72.75
80.93
81.09
76.58
73.53
62.74
53.76
38.67
66.08
79.53
63.34
41.82
63.69
1833....
46.54
55.26
58 29
67.74
73.94
78.76
82.29
80.99
75.73
64.76
53.33
55.34
66.66
80.68
64.61
52. 71
66.16
1833....
55.79
53.85
55.87
67.44
75.07
81.15
83.95
83.82
78.63
61.85
56.70
S3 10
66.13
82.97
65.73
54.25
67.27
1834....
44.95
60 61
62.15
69.83
73.61
82.88
82.06
82.12
72.95
69.07
61.65
50.15
68.53
82.35
67.86
51.90
67.66
1835....
50.21
43.64
55.34
63.44
70.76
80.53
79.58
80.68
73.66
64.77
53.92
52.37
63.18
80.26
64.13
48.74
64.07
1836....
50.74
54.14
55.08
67.85
70.57
76.67
80.35
78.58
75.69
59.84
49.61
46 58
64.50
78.53
62 05
50.49
63.89
1837....
45.21
50.36
55.73
62.57
71.50
79.66
80.44
80.44
74.27
67.56
63.65
51.50
63.27
80.18
68.49
49.03
65 24
1838....
51.12
42 79
61.27
69.12
68.54
80.94
81.00
80.07
74.27
64.44
52.17
45.83
66.31
80.67
63.63
46.S8
64.30
1839....
52.63
50.36
59.71
70.59
73.30
81.85
81.25
83.51
78.53
73.03
55.46
48.85
J
67.87
83.20
69.01
.'.0.61
67.42
IMO....
.■50.49
57.38
64.52
71.30
73.87
SO. 08
82.06
83.30
76.39
70.07
55.03
50.59 ,
69.90
81.81
67.16
53. i2
67.99
536
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT JESUP, LOUISIANA— Continued.
Latitude 31° 33', Longitude 93° 32'. Altitude 80? feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Aututnii
Wiiitir.
Venr.
1841....
45.09
51.89
58.13
69.69
70.75
78.S
84.21
80.19
73.50
62.63
56.34
48.73
66.19
80.87
64 15
48.57
64.94
1842....
53.14
56.13
64.12
70.43
76.92
8Q.68
78.16
78.65
76.93
64.79
50.74
47.02
70.59
80.14
64.15
52.10
66.74
1843....
54.95
47.90
41.60
69.65
75.34
77.30
81.75
76.25
78.60
61.82
57.99
48.30
62 20
78.43
66.14
50.15
64.23
1844....
52.82
53.88
57.51
70.66
76.57
79.18
83.90
80.94
73.68
60.93
58.54
48.43
68.95
81.11
63.72
51.71
6G.20
1845....
51.72
55.65
57.42
68 64
70.49
77.41
81.10
76.56
76.09
65.57
57.92
43.91
65.52
66.68
50.43
Mean i
50.63
52.69
59.45
67.80
73.72
80.95
82 S2
81.35
65.90
56.60
49.68
66.99
81.27
66.22
51.00
66.39
FORT SABINE, LOUISIANA.
Latitude 29° 45', Longitude 93° 50'. At sea level*
1837....
1838....
51.60 43.ffi
59.12 70.26 (68.54) 79.05
79.53
78.35
72.39
71.37
64.62
53 84
63.97
79.00
66.05
• The post was on the low shore of Sabine lake, eight miles from the Gulf of Mexico, southwartl, and surrounded by water and innrsh lands
FORT TOWSON, INDIAN TERRITORY.
Latitude 34° 00', Longitude 95° 33'. Altitude 300?/ee<.
1832....
39.59
79.39
75.20
69.98
61.16
47.80
47.00
59.65
1833. ..
51.29
45.34
46.99
63.56
72.24
72.84
85.70
80.55
74.44
57.81
49.33
43.83
60.93
79.70
60.53
46.83
63.00
1834....
32.32
50.49
55.14
65.93
68.95
79.52
80.93
81.94
67.57
62.54
56.69
42.19
63.34
80.80
62.97
41.63
62.01
1833....
44.30
34.94
51.12
60.14
72.06
76.87
76 51
76 03
68.14
59.75
43.04
43.09
61.11
76.47
56.98
41.44
.59.00
1836....
41.17
44.77
47.94
61.59
69.66
75.63
78.76
79.39
74.16
58.31
48.99
41.36
59.73
77.93
60.30
42.43
61.00
1837....
40.51
46.91
52.94
58.68
66.75
77.44
81.85
80.20
72.21
64.31
57.98
45.80
59.19
79.83
64.83
44.41
62.05
1838....
43.69
34.18
56.90
66.42
62.98
78.80
K.02
81.06
70.54
59.06
43.95
37.12
62.10
80.63
57.85
38.33
59.74
1839....
46.76
46.31
56.19
68.60
72.53
79.17
82.88
80.05
72.57
66.34
47.44
39.99
05.79
80 70
62.19
44.39
63.95
1840....
42.20
49.91
57.93
65.99
70.94
76.81
80.118
83.21
71.77
60.30
50.96
44.72
64.95
80.03
61.01
45.61
62.90
1841....
42.14
49.73
52.97
69.93
68.95
73.76
81.76
76.06
66.69
56.98
46.97
35.42
61.62
77.19
56.65
42 43
59.47
1842....
43.03
53.70
65.12
67.86
73.58
78.76
80.96
78.61
76.60
63 06
46.26
43.22 1
68.85
79.44
61.97
46.65
64.94
1843....
49.40
43.60
39.00
66.51
70.30
75.10
78.80
73,95
76.15
59.10
53.50
45.65 .
42.33
58.60
76.62
63.93
46.18
61.08
1844....
44.40
49.^
51.73
68 36
72.53
77.91
82.80
80.75
71.97
59.64
53.16
64.21
80.49
61.59
45.32
63.90
1845....
46.57
50.71
52.20
67.70
68.49
77.31
81.59
79.73
75.44
60.10
49.30
35.79
62.80
79.54
61.68
44.36
63.09
1846....
43.60
42.60
53.85
61.27
1
1849....
76 11
78.18
79.16
74.26
59.11
56.53
42.00
77.82
63.30
1850....
46.10
47.13
53.48
59.81
67.92
76.06
80.57
82.49
75.98
63.12
51.71
39.29
60.17
76.37
63.37
44.14
61.01
1851....
44.31
44.88
56.35
60.38
71.91
78.30
82.23
82.54
78.75
63.25
47.60
62.51
81.02
63.20
1852....
68.17
66.05
48.80
43.68
58.34
1853....
41.78
43.75
51.84
64.24
67.25
78.02
79.69
81.40
73.40
60.27
54.95
42.48
61.11
79.70
63.87
42.67
61.59
1854....
30 39
49.29
59.55
61.90
Me.an 1
aOy'rsf
43.14
45.97
53.40
64.00
69.77
76.97
80.82
79 69
72.53
61.04
50.24
43 65
62.39
79.16
61.37
43.92
01.69
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
537
FORT WASHITA, 1XDL\N TERRITORY.
Latitude 34° 14', Longitude 96° 38'. Altitude 645 feet.
1
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Scj.t.
Oct.
1
Not.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer.
Autumn
Winter.
Tear.
1343...
47.50
41 .TO
36.50
65.30
69.70
76.70
80.30
77.00
T5.40
63.90
52.40
47.20
57.17
73.00
62.23
45.47
60.72
1S14....
45.02
51.16
53.44
63.27
73.41
77.18
62.89
82.54
71.20
60.64
54.99
45.91
1 65.04
80.69
63.28
47.36
63.81
1S45....
4T.29
53.64
53.17
69.18
69.25
T3.SS
84.31
79.18
76.00
CO. 71
49.52
89.03
63.87
80.62
62.10
46.67
63.31
IBIO....
47.80
44.90
55.94
63.46
72.63
74.79
81.76
81.09
76.13
65.09
55.09
48.87
63.99
79.88
65.4i
47.02
64.03
1S47...,
85.83
45.60
49.16
67.73
66.90
76.84
79.47
78.48
73.46
65.52
51.16
44.00
60.96
73.10
63.33
41.81
61. C6
1848....
47.44
51.72
55.95
53.59
74.82
75.37
79.74
81.08
73.62
68.55
44.87
82.08
63.12
78.73
60.63
43.73
6! .56
1849...
36.96
44.90
58.66
61.85
69.83
76.04
77.88
79.88
78.85
60.T4
57.65
41.49
63.28
7T.92
64.08
41.12
61.60
1S50....
47.06
46.39
62 96
59.50
66.31
74.62
81.01
83.81
77.04
65.53
53.57
87.16
59.59
79.64
65.3S
43.50
62.03
1S51....
43.93
44.18
56. S8
60.84
72.89
79.56
82.41
84.71
80.25
61.72
46.70
42.24
63.87
82.23
62.69
43.45
62.93
1352 ...
37.71
49.41
55.20
53.05
69.50
73.51
78.62
T8.17
69.77
64.90
47.63
41.37
60.91
T6.T6
60.73
42.83
60.83
IS-W....
42.05
42.37
51.44
63.94
65.46
76.90
78.41
81.50
74.08
60.73
54.18
42.63
60.23
78.94
63.01
42.85
61.14
1554....
86.76
43.94
60.41
61.43
69.80
75.43
83.13
88.40
77.30
66.83
51.56
43.70
63.S.S
80.67
65.05
43.13
63.18
*
Me'.n )
12y'r3/
42.91
47. «7
53.81
63.18
69.93
76.23
SO. 73
SO. 86
74.S4
68.29
■
51.61
43.43 j
62.16
79.29
63.25
44.14
62.21
FORT SMITH, ARKANSAS.
Latitude 35° 23', Longitude 94° 29'. Altitude 460 feet.
1342....
42.99
44.77
61.50
63.54
69.64
T4.78
77.19
74.56
73.49
5T.75
41.36
38.34
61.89
75.61
57.20
42.03
59.91
1S13....
41.70
36.83
31.53
60.28
67.72
T4.38
78.79
T4.S3
73.71
54.14
47.83
40.25
53.16
T6.00
58.63
39.59
36.88
1844....
3S.34
45.77
43.12
66.53
71.15
76.71
81.13
76.82
63.06
56.20
48.65
37.94
61.93
TS.22
6T.69
40.65
69.61
1845....
43.49
47.39
50.05
63.82
68.50
78.61
S2.47
"8.27
72.55
65.34
44.98
31.88
62.46
T9.T8
57.62
40.75
60.15
1846...
3D. 82
83.70
52.46
63.56
71.24
73.50
80.65
73.80
75 73
61.55
51.21
46.47
62.09
T7.65
62.88
41.66
61.06
1347....
84.43
40. IT
47.96
65.71
65'.76
75.71
TT.86
75.88
71.01
62.34
47.75
43.40
59.80
76.48
60.87
83.ST
53.87
1S4S....
44. S7
48.07
62.69
69.61
T2.61
T5.0T
79.01
79.45
68.T4
60.93
42.98
34.01
61.64
77.84
57.68
42.32
69.88
1849....
35.78
40.91
57.65
59.46
64.43
T6.S0
TD.86
80.86
74.82
60.83
59.60
49.90
60.51
79.01
64.71
39.20
60.86
1850....
46.50
51.51
67.73
53.51
61.27
76.62
62.22
1S52....
58.92
67.91
72.74
73.07
T6.61
69.06
63.53
46.53
39.60
74.10
59.72
■ •>■
1833....
40.20
41.67
50.66
63.97
64.93
76.21
77.93
80.57
71.53
58.79
63.14
89.80
69.85
78.24
61.15
40.56
69.95
1354...
33.92
47.01
57.01
60.62
67.51
75.4S
63.15
82.70
TT.3S
64.70
47.97
40.83
61.71
80.44
63.33
40.59
61.52
Mean i
12y'rsf
40.18
43.89
51.53
62.33
69.91
75.55
79.19 '
73.07
T2.23
59.65
4S.8G
39.37
61.29
77.60
60.08
41.11
60.02
FORT GIBSON, INDIAN TERRITORY.
Latitude 35° 47', Longitude 95° 10'. Altitude 560 feet.
162-....
81.93
82.98
78.58
66.66
87.00
46.68
67.41
1328....
41.26
47.63
54.74
59.06
71.36
81.16
81.75
82.04
69.72
66.02
55.89
47.66
61.72
81.65
63.71
46.58
68.34
1829....
44.52
23.65
48.82
59.51
74.16
78.09
80.76
82.92
75.08
62.6T
60.14
50.29
60.66
80.69
63.63
41.15
61.26
1680....
47.64
47.48
67.46
65.26
69.95
80.63
81.95
81.83
79.04
69.15
56.84
40.46
64.22
82.43
63.84
45.19
<5.06
1S31....
80.14
84.54
53.70
68.18
68.09
75.34
83.71
76.66
70.69
60.28
50.84
81.89
61.61
73.31
60.42
82.19
63.13
1382....
41.31
41.92
55.21
64.25
69.67
77.81
80.25
77.83
72.30
62.94
60.43
47.48
63.01
73.81
61.86
48.72
61.76
18-33....
47.52
41.42
50.47
63.93
T0.98
76.86
81.63
80.70
75.43
57.50
52.28
48.62
61.73
79.57
61.-1
45.25
62.03
1S34....
23.17
50.80
52.51
67.83
72.81
79.81
83.06
88.22
78.87
65.31
64.97
41.06
64.24
88.70
64.83
39.84
63.16
1S35....
43.83
82.74
61.19
60.17
T1.48
78.55
77.93
77.89
70.19
61.06
48.19
48.64
60.95
73.12
68.16
89.57
69.19
1SS6 ...
40.43
S
43.06
.96
46.14
—68
63.44
71.26
74.73
79.45
80.12
74.54
66.09
4T.83
89.66
60.95
78.W
69.49
41.03 1
S9.90
538
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES
FORT GIBSON, INDIAN TERRITORY— Continued.
Latitude 35° 47', Longitude 95° 10'. Altitude 560 feet.
J.iii.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
Juno.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Not.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer.
Autumn
Winter.'
Year.
188T....
36.92
44.64
CO .20
58.74
66.36
T6.6S
83.91
82.91
72.24
65.44
69.19
43.52
57.48
81.17
65.02
41.66
61.47
18SS....
40.99
28.81
68.70
65.70
62.28
79.21
88.07
83.18
74.42
56.40
40.87
83.65
60.66
81.82
67.06
84.32
68.44
1S89....
43. C9
43.30
63.68
68.96
71.66
75.83
62.79
82.68
74.64
67.21
47.24
89.73
64.78
80.88
63.08
42.24
62.59
ISIO....
86. S2
46.41
54. 51
63.49
69.10
77.15
77.74
78.86
69.83
69.78
45.92
42.22
62.87
77.76
58.34
41. S2
60.07
1841....
85.27
41.87
62.14
61.85
68.14
75.58
81.95
80.04
69.72
56.70
51.85
42.09
60.71
79.17
59.26
89.64
59.67
1&12....
45.90
46.57
03.22
64.18
70.12
73.66
77.12
75.06
74.86
60.67
43.86
41.12
65.49
75.85
59.63
44.63
01.25
1S43....
43.80
88.17
39.50
62.40
66.93
74.50
76.83
74.17
78.20
66.65
50.25
45.20
66.28
75.16
61.70
42.22
68.84
1844....
40.67
47.81
60.45
66.80
69.89
75.77
80.00
77.40
68.67
57.91
60.41
41.73
62.21
77.72
69.00
43.24
60.54
1845 ...
46.24
50.65
60.54
68.46
67.02
77.25
83.80
78.94
75.58
68.25
47.12
84.40
62.01
79.83
60.82
43.76
01 .48
184G....
42.78
38.44
52.61
61.87
70.00
71.32
79.74
78.95
74.50
62.44
53.59
45.93
61.49
76.67
03.18
42.87
60.98
1847....
83.55
42.78
47.16
66.01
65.52
72.75
77.92
74.62
70.29
61.56
52.67
41.16
69.56
75.06
61.47
89.15
68.81
1S4S....
45.88
49.11
53.13
57.30
70.72
75.83
77.95
76.68
68.00
62.89
43.81
80.48
00.38
76.83
88.07
41.81
69.27
1S49....
83.19
89.65
65. S4
60.46
68.87
75.77
77.79
77.80
72.59
56.45
54.61
36.69
61.72
76.96
61.22
86.51
69.10
1850....
42.15
42.89
49.42
65.85
66.63
76.54
81.00
83.78
"5.46
62.48
60.52
36.01
57.13
80.44
62.65
40.61
60.28
1851....
41.91
42.27
64.09
58.28
72.26
77.16
82.60
84.80
78.82
60.76
44.34
86.81
61.58
81.49
01.14
40.33
01.12
1852....
84.82
47.08
54.00
63.80
TO. 18
74.31
81.60
76.97
69.36
63. 96
44.95
37.89
60.97
77.62
69. 4B
89.74
59.44
1853....
39.63
39.90
49.40
63.81
64.79
78.11
80.23
82.86
73.31
59.80
53.11
41.22
69.17
80.28
62.07
40.25
60.43
1854....
33.72
46.88
56.67
60.49
67.61
75.74
84.62
85.20
79.61
66.67
47.80
41.50
61.56
81.65
64.68
40.58
62.12
Me&n
27i yr's.
[•40.15
42.41
62.19
62.13
68.79
76.82
80.76
80.24
73.50
61.56
49.72
40.84
61.04
79.41
61.66
41.18
60.81
FORT SCOTT, MISSOURI.
Latitude 31° 45', Longitude 94° 35'. Altitude 1000? feet.
1843....
87.11
28.05
24.65
53.95
68.50
71.95
75.46
73.40
70.70
50.90
42.85
87.90
47.83
73.60
64.66
34.35
62.48
1844....
80.55
80.70
45.34
63.27
64.86
72.07
80.27
74.24
62.85
61.84
42.00
85.26
67.66
75.53
52.28
8t.l7
64.90
1845....
89.04
42.71
45.85
02.50
65.01
72.28
78.84
76.02
09.20
52.23
89.01
25.87
67.79
75.68
58.68
86.01
65.75
1846....
87.88
29.93
46.05
67.84
68.97
69.26
78.40
75.86
70.09
54.83
44.91
87.31
67.45
74.60
66.61
34.80
55.85
1847....
22.70
38.82
87.17
67.88
61.57
70.93
76.06
72.23
07.83
50.27
41.85
88.89
62.21
78.07
65.00
29.97
62.66
1848....
87.41
89.68
45.21
63.81
68.63
72.71
74.94
76.08
64.77
66.42
85.28
21.95
65.85
74.58
62.16
33.01
63.90
1849....
22.91
80.10
49.03
63.17
63.47
73.60
76.12
74.58
68.79
62.64
50.14
29.88
64.22
74.48
67.19
27.46
68.07
1850....
84.66
35.69
42.27
43.68
61.87
78.47
79.84
81.24
71.68
58.20
46.09
27.41
60.89
78.02
58.04
82.55
65.02
1851....
88.71
36.82
48.14
68.46
69.50
78.40
78.23
70,03
73.59
53.11
89.02
81.30
67.03
70.09
66.90
83.78
55.95
1852....
23.45
89.11
47.82
68.28
67.62
71.46
76.03
75.07
67.17
01.40
88.40
31.13
66.24
74.18
66.65
82.91
54.74
1858....
36.24
88.30
43.00
Mean }
lOy'rs (
82.91
84.98
43.18
55.72
65.48
72.11
77.22
75.63
68.62
55.28
41.91
31.09
54.78
74.95
55.27
82.99
54.60
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
539
JEFFERSON BARRACKS,
Latitude 38° 28', Longitude 90° 1
MISSOURI.
5'. Altitude 472 feet.
ST. LOUIS ARSENAL, MISSOURI.
Latitude 38° 40', Longitude 90° 05'. Altitude 450 feet.
1S43. ..
1844....
1S45 ...
1S46...
1S4T...,
ISIS...
81.44
SS.69
ST.20
24.64
85.57
1S49....1 25.12
1S50....! 84.08
22.64
36.57
40.51
27.93
83.41
."!T.90
2S.44
83.76
25. 2S 56.08
42.11 ! 64.88 I
44.34 60.99
45.71 I 54.91
8S.06 56.65
42.16 : 51.03
I
46.40 53.36
41.38 43.55
66.79
66.23
61.71
63.97
62.19
66.14
63.90
61.47
74.30
79. S3
76.32
72.59
75.29
81.03
74.34
66.75
73.60
79.S2
75.85
75.08
71.11
79.95
77.87
72.SS
72.64
78.60
74.10
67.85
7S.1P
76.65
74.67
02.96
76.69
75.04
78.71
66.62
75.01
78.83
77.89
67.81
63.39
51.04
68.95
54.05
52.38
54.23
50.30
54.14
41.74
44.45
40.55
42.73
43.63
87.25
49.02
44.73
35.93
36.43
24.13
37.46
31.30
30.20
23.96
29. So
49.37
55.74
55.63
56.53
52.30
53.18
54.57
50.45
77.15
77.25
T6.22
76.81
75.11
74.81
75.14
77.79
55.91
54.03
56.51
56.40
54.61
51.43.
65.31
55.89
31.54
S4.S1
34.44
84.20
29.73
34.5<!
27.51
81.24
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
ADg.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1327....
82.09
44.55
50.93
61.22
' 65.52
78.62
80.15
81.67
72.95
53.98
50.40
39.09
59.24
78.48
60.78
88.58
59.27
1823....
87.17
42.32
49.43
55.85
70.08
80.69
79.41
81.56
67.89
50.75
50.55
44.S5
1 53.44
80.55
56.40
41.61
59.25
1S29....
36.81
20.52
42.60
60.17
73.73
77.21
T6.82
76.97
65.30
5S.87
37.11
42.31
53.68
77.00
53.26
88.05
55.53
18.30....
82.79
87.55
4S.00
61.83
66.86
75.63
79.78
78.74
67.63
60.74
51.43
42.05
53.68
78.07
59.98
87.80
58.61
1S31....
21.58
27.22
43.37
75.46
71.96
63.05
53.73
40.35
18.54
52.83
22.48
1S82...
81.10
31.17
50.35
58. S3
63.35
80.55
76.53
78.94
66.04
53.60
44.99
36.33
57.69
77.01
66.54
33. C5
56.07
1833....
83.13
35.89
42.76
61.81
70.68
78.88
81.24
79.28
71.21
62.18
44.83
38.80
53.25
77.97
56.06
S7.44
57.43
1534....
21.84
44.04
45.29
89.81
67.56
75.91
81.60
81.27
64.93
54.93
45 21
32.45
57.55
79.59
55.06
82. 6S
56.22
1S35....
83.64
21.75
42.02
54.05
69.78
74.47
74.41
73.10
61.42
59.26
40.79
85.00
55.27
73.99
53.82
80.13
63.30
1686....
46.79
89.25
29.17
1387. ..
23.52
87.37
40.78
49.15
61.70
70.52
77.05
75.63
65.03
74.40
1833....
52.56
67.67
78.53
79.77
77.83
67 22
51.32
82.48
25.61
77.04
50.52
13.39....
37.06
36.95
43.80
'62.11
62.82
69.10
78.81
72.40
65.76
63.95
83.03
28.02
56.24
71.77
55.91
30.63
58.65
1S40....
24.96
89.43
44.23
52.73
76.44
76.16
76.89
56. C2
55.00
41.66
M.S2
76.33
58.89
38.09
1841....
27.53
30.22
41.57
58.16
65.61
74.61
79. S6
75. C5
67.75
58.70
44.33
34.59
».45
76.51
55.26
80.73
54.25
1S42....
33.70
87.02
53.73
64.81
65.12
71.09
75.09
71.79
71 24
59.64
37.67
84.38
62,88
72.66
56.13
36.70
67.10
1S43....
36.16
23. 7S
25.80
52.66
65.84
72.36
76 58
74.56
70.00
49 56
42.61
87.12
47.88
74.67
54.06
32.85
52.23
1844....
31.82
37.72
44.03
02.91
65.20
70.37
77.58
73.78
64.99
52.73
44.05
80.52
57.33
77.78
63.94
85.19
66.07
li!45....
39.13
43.05
46.32
65.63
66.36
77.62
79.35
76.60
70.40
54 45
41.53
25.03
59.60
77.99
65.43
35.74
57.20
1S46....
87.73
80.02
46.85
59.85
69.65
69.82
73.42
77.68
72.93
53.39
45.08
83.59
53.63
75.14
57.80
35.46
56.76
1S47....
87.57
..
69.60
77.41
67.66
31.64
1548....
33.49
40.99
42.42
56.61
63.53
71.48
72.51
73.97
63.33
54.46
87.93
81.63
54.87
75.99
52.09
37.05
95.00
1S49....
23.06
81.13
49.40
55.23
65.15
73.53
75.19
74.87
67.41
62.24
49.71
29.33
56.63
74.53
56.79
29.54
54.87
1550....
34.04
85.86
42.51
43.54
62.27
76.11
81.44
80.13
69.57
57.46
47.23
81.04
51.14
79.24
53.09
33.48
55.43
1S51....
85.48
88.29
48.18
50.83
63.27
73.62
79.53
76.05
73.53
67.52
41.09
29.78
55.74
76.40
57.33
34.52
56.01
1S52...
23.20
83.88
45.25
58.31
67.27
71.76
77.60
73.60
67.31
68.90
89.41
36.50
56.27
74.32
57.04
34.01
55.41
1353....
86.80
83.73
44.87
57.42
64.46
78.48
76.66
77.07
70.34
53.81
49.93
34.51
55.42
77.40
53.21
34.35
56.47
1S54....
23.48
40.04
4S..34
56.79
63.44
74.78
55.80
82.12
75.39
61.19
44.21
86.02
57.86
80.90
60.43
34.85
53.51
Mean )
26y'r3 f
32.53
35.16
45.03
57.06
66.82
74.11
78.00
76.46
68.07
65.68
43.15
38.31
56.15
76.19
55.68
33.85
55.46
53.49
55.97
55.71
55.8e
S2.95
53.49
53.13
63.72
540
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
ST. LOUIS ARSENAL, MISSOURI— Continued.
Latitude 38° 40', Longitude 90° 05'. Altitude 450 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer.
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1S51....
82.50
36.31
46.32
50.61
66.49
72.41
73.85
77.09
71.71
66.18
89.89
29.21
54.47
75.95
65.41
32.69
54.63
1S52....
27. S4
85.28
46.79
62.00
65.98
72.40
78.12
78.56
67.40
69.91
88.43
33.87
54.90
74.69
5'). 26
82.16
64.25
1S63....
88.25
31. 8S
42.95
66.63
64.53
7S.13
76.00
76.27
69.01
51.70
46.96
82.14
64.69
76.60
55.69
82.42
64.95
lSo4....
25.47
36. SC
46.10
65.41
66.86
74.75
82.25
81.80
75.88
69.70
41.68
34.34
65.90
79.48
53.89
82.16
66.01
Mi-an 1
12.v,-sf
81.44
83.48
42.80
55.08
65. or
74.20
78.22
76.16
69.68
64.20
42.55
81.93
61.15
76.19
55.44
32.27
64.61
Mean for sixteen years at St. Louis, 1833 to 1S48, by Dr. Ungelmann, .'16.27 degrees.
NEWPORT BARRACKS, KENTUCKY.
Latitude 39° 05', Longitude 84° 29'. Altitude 500 feet.
Tile last summary is of observations at Cincinnati by Professor Kay.
DETROIT, MICHIGAN.*
Latitude 42° 20', Longitude 82° 58'. Altitude 580 feet.
1847....
78.60
75.28
70.51
55.04
40.62
33.67
57.36
1S4S....
80.76
37.00
48.25
65.64
69.08
73.88
75.60
76.00
63.75
54.81
39.96
41.27
66.29
74.79
52.85
88.84
55.67
1S49....
33.08
81.08
49.00
54.50
65.20
76.84
75.19
73.50
00.77
56.26
61.16
82.14
66.23
75.01
57.72
32.10
65.27
1850..,.
87.47
86.54
42.44
51.10
59.32
74.64
79.69
76.60
66.87
54.40
47.18
61.30
70.91
56.16
1851....
80.42
42.87
48.66
63.82
07.13
72.46
70.30
75.10
69.77
65.48
43.07
81.28
56.38
74.64
56.11
86.80
55.98
1562....
27.20
87.95
46.62
51.01
64.87
6S.97
76.74
72.20
65.79
00.44
41.92
40.15
64.00
72.04
50.06
85.12
64.45
1868....
85.52
84.55
41.60
55.00
68.93
76.00
73.41
74.43
67.86
61.36
45.98
84.38
53.51
74.01
65.00
84.98
54.54
1S54....
31.75
89.60
46.74
53.20
64.00
72.13
79.54
78.18
74.34
59.75
41.89
85.37
64.65
70.00
68.06
35.67
60.37
Menn )
7^ y'rs f
84.04
30.94
45.40
63.89
64.72
78.49
76.48
75.02
63.21
55 81
44.71
34.84
64.52
75.00
66.24
85.27
55.26
Mean 1
ISyVsf
88.50
84.10
43.40
64.. W
63.50
71.10
76.80
73.70
65.50
53.00
42.30
83.80
53.80
78.70
53.60
83.80
63.70
1S80 ...
44. S7
66.76
63.89
67.15
00.52
58.13
89.90
83.12
24.79
63.69
43.74
1837....
21.57
24.29
29. S4
33.81
51.63
62.74
66.22
05.41
68.74
46.95
89.69
26.03
1 39.94
64.79
48.43
24.10
44.88
1838....
27.72
12.11
33.77
89.63
60.62
6S.12
73.78
68.07
59.51
62.66
29.81
17.00
43.02
70.19
48.83
19.14
44.05
1339....
25.69
27.38
82.77
50.74
69.85
65.02
72.07
66.07
56.68
57.46
83.04
28.03
47.79
68.12
50.38
27.03
43.83
1S40....
20.87
33 .23
35.19
48.14
60.78
66.75
07.80
66.67
50.89
48.48
87.80
28.89
48.04
67.00
47.71
27.35
47.54
1S41....
25.90
25.70
31.47
42.04
51.89
67.16
68.06
63.16
01.81
45.64
36.83
31.81
41.60
08.13
48.76
27. OS
40.57
1842....
82.07
81.74
44.89
49.17
54.13
60.36
66.09
67.21
01.00
51.14
84.93
29.57
49.40
04.05
49.02
81.80
48.59
1S43....
30.48
19.25
22.46
46.83
54.86
64.83
66.00
66.08
05.48
44.62
84.96
81.85
41.21
65.47
43.35
27.03
45.61
1S44....
23.48
29.87
84.90
64.57
58.49
63.93
70.73
60.67
02.25
47.27
38.11
80.08
' 49.82
67.13
49.21
27.01
43.32
1S46....
80.07
29.92
89.70
48.60
65.40
66.17
7U.92
71.92
69.70
4S.S5
35.50
21.95
47.90
69.67
48.01
27.31
48.22
1S46....
29.32
24.62
80.85
50.03
62.92
66.27
49.93
1849....
54.69
20. C3
39.10
45.69
56.11
69.85
72.60
69.84
63.81
49.71
46.77
26.95
46.96
70.76
63.43
25.89
49.26
1650....
80.77
29 66
85.37
44.81
66.04
09 63
74.69
71.69
00.04
49.63
44.21
25.93
44.97
71.97
61.46
28.80
49.30
1651....
28.47
32.66
89.66
44. C9
66. S2
40.79
Mc:m 1
13 J'ls f
27.01
20.02
35.40
46.82
66.02
65.62
C9.71
07.47
00.05
47 69
88.20
26.83
45.75
67.60
43.67
20.84
47.21
* At DeUoit Arsenal, Dearboniville, tcu miles west of Uic city, to the close of 1S39 ; subsequently at Detroit BarracliB.
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
641
FORT GRATIOT, MICHIGAN.
Latitude 42° 55', Longitude 82° 23'. Altitude 598
feet.
Jan.
Feb.
Marcli.
Api-il.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn.
Winter.
Year.
1830....
52.00
54.40
61.93
78.69
71.23
62.26
55.80
46.56
28.03
68.92
M.37
1881....
21.26
20.17
88.65
44.22
56.07
70.15
72.08
70.61
59.83
62.23
88.40
15.82
46.31
70.98
50.00
19.06
46.53
1882....
25.16
21.09
85.29
48.84
53.57
67.85
70.99
68.98
62.73
53.96
89.10
81.97
44.23
69.87
51.95
26.17
47.93
1833....
29.65
24.80
81.67
48.19
57.70
62.03
70.40
68.90
61.95
47.04
89.98
84.92
45.85
67.13
49.66
29.79
48.11
1884....
21.89
34.80
84.96
47.80
53.44
64.10
75.16
70.79
60.77
47.94
40.27
80.86
46.90
70.02
49.66
28.63
48.81
1885....
28.49
23.06
82.95
44.60
53.07
65.80
68.55
66.87
55.94
62.96
88.66
26.46
45.21
67.07
49.19
26.00
46.87
1636....
26.63
17.68
24.67
39.61
62.29
53.93
68.08
61.15
58.68
41.00
86.63
27.14
88.82
62.74
45.42
23.78
42.09
1687....
23.21
25.08
23.93
30.74
47.70
87.81
1839....
69.64
65.16
55.82
55.48
34.24
26.09
43.33
1840....
16.71
81.42
84.75
46.26
58.69
65.37
fS.15
69.32
63.95
40.87
35.59
24.61
46.57
67.78
46.80
24.25
46.3S
1841....
28.70
20 31
80.87
40.32
50.13
64.20
71.60
60.65
63.27
44.61
87.48
81.18
40.46
68.48
48.45
25.05
45.61
1842....
80.26
29.46
89.28
48.05
51.36
68.41
64.84
66.52
58.23
50.10
34.71
27.93
46.23
63.26
47.68
29.22
46.60
1848....
29.13
18.46
19.96
89.94
50.00
60.46
63.32
67.81
63.50
44.90
84.80
31.90
36.63
63.86
47.73
26.51
48.68
1844....
22.57
2S.S2
83.62
58.40
53.18
60.97
66.82
65.25
60.43
45.56
86.24
29.79
4S.40
64.85
47.41
26.89
46.64
1845....
28.46
29.43
38.49
44.49
52.13
63.13
69.52
69.69
58.81
47.94
30.05
20.64
45.05
67.46
47.60
26.18
46.5T
1846 ...
26.53
22.96
34.68
45.36
50.54
62.15
45.51
1349....
70.83
65.87
60.00
48.53
45.25
25.58
51.24
1850....
29.43
26.89
29.62
41.71
48.91
66.87
71.25
68.67
67.48
43.03
42.25
24.42
40.08
63.98
49.23
26.91
43.79
1S51....
25.67
29.55
35.09
40.83
53.16
62.00
67.56
04.34
62.46
50.76
35.14
24.63
43.02
64.63
49.45
26.62
45.93
1852....
21.90
26.17
31.01
36.61
60.89
89.51
\
Mean
174 y'ra
25.30
25.26
33.16
44.08
63.80
63.44
69.55
67.10
60 81
43.66
33.24
26.55
48.63
66.70
49.07
25.70
46.29
FORT MACKINAC, MICHIGAN.
Latitude 45° 51', Longitude 84° 33'. Altitude 728 feet.
1825....
65.26
47.92
88.60
20.70
47.26
1826....
18.93
17. C6
20.32
82.65
50.59
01.14
66.74
63.29
54.81
48.63
85.60
23.41
80.69
63.72
46.86
20.00
41. ST
1828....
21.14
20.06
23.17
85.96
47.60
67.31
61.53
63.35
55.13
46.48
86.12
20.25
87.24
61. C6
45.92
22.43
41.67
1829....
19.87
11.44
22.78
37.09
55.52
60.95
63 89
66.95
53.20
47.56
29.60
29.79
38.46
63.60
48.45
20.10
41.40
1830....
16.28
21.45
23.51
43.62
46.31
56.44
70.12
64.85
53.16
49.76
43.40
24.76
89.43
68.81
48.77
20.83
43.22
1831....
16.48
14.97
80.83
37.68,
48.27
61.64
64.75
65.56
53.02
45.62
34.14
13.94
83.91
63.95
44.20
15.18
40.55
1S3S....
18.89
8.00
27.94
83.22
44.83
69.03
61.69
63.54
64.88
46.73
81. S5
27.01
86.65
61.44
44.32
17.80
89.93
1883....
21.64
16.29
23.16
83.97
43.97
58.60
62.05
64.14
55.66
41.73
85.36
82.86
87.03
69.93
44.25
23.40
41.15
1834...
16.42
24.64
26.92
89.63
44.69
53.19
65.57
65.39
54.87
41.08
84.95
21.76
87.05
61.88
43.63
20.94
40.78
1835....
22.37
10.03
24.50
86.01
47.73
69.45
62.83
62.27
50.25
48.65
29.53
19.33
86.13
61.62
41.11
17.61
89.10
1836 ...
18.22
12.33
15. .M
82.42
46.4-1
53.77
63.82
57.72
60.79
37.73
84.11
22.55
81.47
59.10
40.59
17.70
37.29
1837 ...
17.44
17.89
20.07
1642....
26.49
24.01
83.42
40.93
45.30
51.61
61.62
65.90
55.90
47.88
82.50
24.69
89.88
59.71
45.26
25.03
42.4T
1843....
25.40
9.25
10. S7
86.66
44.38
50.86
69.62
64.98
67.70
42.29
80.60
27.75
82.60
60 45
43.53
20.80
S9.81
1844....
16.23
23 01
26.29
42.42
48.30
54.10
63.64
62. W
65.62
43.46
84.81
24.41
89.17
60.18
44.60
21.43
41.38
1845....
22.67
22.53
SO 01
86.83
47.73
56.60
61.15
64.46
63.76
44.10
81.78
19.86
88.04
61.73
43.21
21.69
41.17
1846 ...
83.92
15.00
80.14
83.32
50.41
63.77
66.00
68 07
61.25
42.64
87.97
25.82
89.62
64.23
46.95
28.SS
43.86
!847....
13.14
15.56
19.60
83.32
46.70
53.12
65.41
60.97
52.19
43.69
S-2.60
22.57
32.87
59.83
42.83
17.(9
».16
1848 ...
JO.86
20.69
23.21
87.31
48.14
20.78
as.2i
20.76
542
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND StXMMARIES.
FORT MACKINAC, MICHIGAN— Continued.
Latitude 45° 51', Longitude 84° 33'. Altitude 728 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
35.92
Summer.
Autumn.
Winter.
Year.
1849....
18.93
12.86
28.10
83.80
46.06
6S.90
66.93
61 64
50.15
44.10
41.58
20.17
62.49
45.26
15.50
89.77
1850....
23.65
23.09
25.67
88.92
48.10 !
61.80
6S.00
67.25
68.91
45.22
36.14
19.68
35.90
65.52
46.76
22.11
42.57
1851....
19.47
25.36
80.21
86.26
44.T9
57.61
66.75
63.87
63.95
49.55
27.71
16.67
87.08
62.33
45.37
20.47
41.88
1852....
15.80
20.14
24.17
85.78
64.47
65.65
65.13
45.97
82.87
25.46
44.49
20.47
1858....
22.85
1T.6S
27.12
8S.1S
46.76
.56.00
68.S1
65.06
67.22
44.24
88.75
23.66
37.84
61.62
45.07
21.40
41 86
1854...
13.09
15.89
26.40
87.06
47.62
59. 9G
67.12
62.47
59.72
49.61
83.66
21.41
87.08
63.13
47.66
16.80
41.17
Mean ;
24 y'rs )
19.87
17.60
25.68
87.03
47.47
67 81
64.55
64.05
55.08
45.17
81.30
23.12
86.73
01.97
43.85
20.08
40.65
FORT DEARBORN, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS.
Latitude 41° 52', Longitude 87° 35'. Altitude 591 feet.
FORT BRADY, MICHIGAN.
Latitude 46° 30', Longitude 84° 43'. Altitude 600 feet.
1832 ...
71.25
71.95
63.40
64.43
40.10
33.88
62.64
1833....
29.92
27.81
83.69
60.88
60.71
64.25
73.00
70.83
64.55
45.91
40.00
84.29
43.89
69.86
60.15
80.67
49.64
1834....
18.51
85.06
36.94
47.75
65.25
63.54
74.37
71.66
60.53
46.69
40.54
29.79
46.93
70 02
49.27
26.12
43.10
1885....
28.32
14.15
32.27
42.92
55.22
68.71
07.66
65.92
54.76
48.33 '
84.35
25.08
43.80
65.76
45.81
22.50
44.47
1386....
22.63
21.94
26.41
42.77
S4.12
69.18
67.09
62.41
57,20
47.24 '
84.51
24.87
41.10
62.89
46.32
22. 9S
43.32
Mean 1
44 y'rs f
23.60
24.74
82.80
46.08
56.32
62.67
70.77
68.55
60.10
43.54
87.90
29.37
44.90
67.83
48.85
25.90
40.75
1823....
22.10
9.47
20.48
89.69
46.96
59.77
63.44
64.17
53.20
42.49
29.72
19.69
35.71
64.18
41.80
17.09
89.63
1824....
19.95
12.65
25.19
89.84
43.54
60.07
64.56
62.87
57.86
42.61
31.85
26.45
87.69
62.50
48.94
19.63
40.95
1825....
13.73
25.62
30.97
41.64
62.65
61.96
67.39
67.99
51.34
45.70
86.77
17.48
41.69
65.78
46.77
20.61
48.46
1826....
17.62
16 58
25.87
32.36
54.08
62.16
45.37
83.44
21.98
87.42
13.63
1827....
17.86
22.73
25.85
39.89
49.92
69.63
63.60
63.67
53.87
45.12
31 16
20.83
83.39
62.28
45.05
20.14
41.46
IS28....
18.43
20.88
2S.T8
39.35
52.80
61.23
67.20
64.86
64.86
45.53
34.60
23.74
40.29
64.43
44.96
20.83
42.68
1329....
16.46
9.83
23.16
88.21
55.20
59 76
47.64
28.81
23.56
33.86
13.23
1830....
18.19
18.67
27.92
46.13
43.48
69.85
71.00
62.38
65.22
49.50
44.08
24.66
40.86
64.23
49.60
13.84
43.48
1831....
15.43
16.86
83.72
89.19
51.56
62.49
65.11
66.75
68.76
46.19
34.97
12.88
41.49
64.45
44.97
14.69
41.45
1832....
13.21
9.65
23.88
40.96
48.55
62.69
69.55
63.13
55.41
40.60
82.50
24.16
39.46
65.12
45.84
17.81
41.93
1838....
17.74
14.01
23.85
40.63
54.15
67.56
62.98
64.86
54.55
89.84
83.05
83.96
89.33
61.62
42.48
21.90
41.84
1334....
14.80
21.24
27.70
40.68
61.59
66.82
67.93
66.83
53.10
40 37
34.64
18.76
89.99
68.73
42.67
18.27
41.16
1835....
21.50
10.06
25.14
38.3*
62.37
61.65
64.29
62.49
51.69
43.83
80.55
19.00
33.62
62.81
42.04
16.85
40.08
1836....
17.72
11.83
16.12
33.63
48.73
68.67
62.48
55.69
49.89
87.56
33.19
19.91
32.84
63.91
40.05
16.34
87.03
1837....
18.40
13.61
16.07
80.44
42.96
65.87
57.68
88.65
58.10
40.28
34.58
20.95
29.82
67.87
42.62
15.99
86.45
1833....
16.77
8.23
31.17
80.71
44.90
69.00
67.35
68.20
66.54
41.13
24.05
12.21
35.69
68 85
40.26
12.40
37.90
1839....
16.20
20.73
28.02
45.44
45.85
57.46
66.16
64.83
62.66
48.44
31.88
27.90
33.10
62.98
44.16
21.61
41.71
1340....
16.08
21.69
28.82
38.85
68.87
62.19
64.07
60.-0S
62.45
40.77
31.44
19.87
41.85
62.10
41.55
13.85
41.09
1841....
16.88
16.46
22.84
83.60
46.23
63.39
61.41
68.48
54.99
41.02
81.78
22.82
84.02
62.74
42.53
18.37
39.43
1842....
18.17
19.49
30.85
89.21
42.14
60.52
53.45
62.93
61.12
43.17
29.07
20.78
37.40
67.80
41.12
19.43
88.82
1343...
21.81
' 10.51
8.69
12.70
35.96
44.60
55.610
.. 67.90
62.98
63.80
88.04
28.25
25.80
81.09
62.14
89.86
17.10
87.55
ISH...;
20.42
23.77
42.67
47.95
53.89
61.06
60.17
63.35
39.85
29.82
20.91
83.13
68.21
41.01
17.23
38.66
1343....
17.90
19.76
27.80
35.57
44.62
60.27
61.20
63.77
64.92
46.42
81.50
18.25
85.80
60.41
43.93
18.63
89.70
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT BRADY. MICHIGAN— Continued.
Latitude 46° 30', Longitude 84° 43'. Altitude 600 feet.
FORT WILKINS, MICHIGAN.
Latitude 47° 30', Longitude 88° 00'. Altitude 620 feet.
FORT HOWARD, WISCONSIN.
Latitude 44° 30', Longitude 88° 05'. Altitude 620
/ee<.
1 Jan. Feb.
j i
March.
April.
May.
June.
July. ' Aug.
I i 1 ■ 1
Sept. Oct. Not. Dec. ' Spring. Sammer. Autumn. Winter.
Year.
1846....
1S47....
i&ts....
ISoO ...
1S51....
1S52....
1S53....
1S54....
23.50
12.40
18.53
21.80
17.69
11.69
21.88
11.02
17.13
13.26
21.80
21.74
21.96
14.13
18.20
12.95
31.70
19.87
25.14
26.92
23.64
18.03
27.70
23.14
42.17
35.03
39.11
86.88
88.20
84.S2
38.96
40.87
62.95
61.87
50.11
47.81
44.47
48.9;
48.97
46.86
61.72
55.64
62.64
53.46
59.88
60.54
66.99
65.88
62.46
62.04
65.20
63.48
64.49
61.23
68.14
61.27
61.62
54.71
54.46
66.82
54.08
58.04
44.87
44.25
45.29
44.78
40.59
44.00
.39.72
82.85
87.88
26.64
35.65
82.51
29.76
25.75
23.10
18.66
17.29
25.06
1
20.47
15.26
42.27
85.42
88.12
87.04
87.10
88.82
83.54
86.79
61.69
64.84
59.07
61.69
62.34
48.74
43.94
45.71
42.57
42.39
43.98
22.12
15.92
20.78
18.93
16.96
20.02
13.09
89.24
41.96
89.43
40.66
89.04
Mean
17.22
16.20
25.15
88.81
49.84
58.40 64.T8 i 62.90
54.57 43.56
82.60 1 21.60
87.60
62.01 1 48.54 18.81 40.87
1344....
66.78
68.30
63.10
55.82
41.64
29.54
22.67
j
61.06
42.00
1S45....
21.40
23.70
25.99
86.88
44.80
55.85
63.80
61.24
55.75
44.18
30.81
18.43
85.89
60.80 '
43.53
2) .18.
40.24
1S46....
25.40
19.09
31.88
39.26
52.03
57.41
40.96
Mean ..
28.40
21.40
28.94
83.07
48.41
56.68
63.55
62.17
65.79
42.91
80.17
20.55
j 88.47
60.80
42.96
21.78
41.00
1822....
1
13.20
21.40
84.S7
41.18
61.15
66.48
72.45
69.59
59.18
43.47
86.82
9.37
45.73
69.51
46.82
14.66
44.05
1828....
19.74
15.17
23.93
42.60
52.23
66.01
71.73
69.09
58.45
42.56
29.91
20.06
40.37
68.94
41.97
13.32
42.85
1824....
24.45
17.95
28.48
42.19
53.53
65.12
73.07
67.92
69.54
42.52
30.50
27.25
41.40
68.70
44.15
23.22
44.87
1825....
18.51
23.15
34.05
47.29
56.98
69.26
79.13
68.56
56.55
48.95
87.25
16.19
46.09
72.82
47.53
20.95
46.73
1826....
19.19
13.85
29.39
89.51
62.85
67.89
70.74
68.24
57.26
50.92
86.29
20.92
48.75
63.96
48.16
19.65
45.13
1827....
16.21
25.10
31.00
43.20
65.61
63.15
72.14
70.17
64.12
46.95
34.19
20.42
48.27
70.15
48.42
20.58
45.60
1828....
18.97
23.4S
36.60
41.84
56.79
69.73
09.75
69.69
65.30
48.48
84.60
24.58
45.03
69.72
46.11
22.34
45.81
1829....
18.95 '
6.83
27.10
40.16
61.21
63.76
68.51
67.46
56.00
49.73
26.51
29.39
42.82
68.24
44.03
18.41
48.89
ISSO....
14.04
24.47
33.21
51.55
54.53
64.00
75.72
63.77
57.05
54.07
43.04
20.81
46.43
69.50
51.89
19.77
46.77
1831....
9.93
12.71
83.69
40.90
56.51
68.88
72.08
70.04
53.68
46.18
81.21
3.86
43.70
70.82
43.69
8.83
41.63
1832....
16.67
9.27
34.49
47.23
53.95
68.44
71.65
66.61
53.54
45.22
63.87
1833....
21.48
20.12
30.62
47.89
58.74
64.04
72.65
70.40
60.97
42.74
87.27
83.47
45.75
69.00
47.00
85.02
46.69
1834....
11.65
81.30
33.05
46.77
5S.4S
68.53
75.23
71.19
58.53
46.66
39.98
26.47
46.10
69.98
48.37
28.11
46.89
1S35....
25.84
11.73
31.95
43.06
59.98
67.34
69.83
67.32
53.56
47.34
29.18
19.79
45.00
68.00
43.36
19.14
43.88
1886....
20.97
20.60
23.89
41.84
56.86
63.78
69.15
62.67
65.00
40.88
84.63
28.69
40.86
65.20
43.84
21.75
43.79
1887....
24.16
23.44
25.65
SS.03
47.95
62.84
67.70
64.72
56.94
45.56
39.66
26.43
87.21
64.92
47.89
34.67
48.55
1883....
21.62
12.54
37.67
89.69
51.03
66.79
71.51
69.82
56.30
42.57
25.34
15.64
43.63
69.87
41.57
16.57
42.58
1839....
24.11
j 25.12
80.15
52.91
53.93
61.25
71.31
1 65.28
55.46
M.29
82.07
27.18
45.66
65.95
47.21
25.47
46.07
1840...
16.03
22.67
83.59
46.36
69.54
63.39
63.91
65.68
66.97
45.94
88.00
21.01
46.50
67.61
45.24
19.92
44.82
1849...
44.77
42.17
15.46
^
1850...
21.79
23.83
28.98
87.83
50.11
66.75
70.87
6S.08
56.81
47.83
84.63
17.84
83.97
68.22
46.11
21.00
48.87
1851...
20.15
21.89
1 83.47
89.96
50.19
62.26
67.82
61.56
61.16
46.11
81.10
17.69
41.20
64.71
1
46.12
20.91
1
45.28
Mean 1
21j'rs
18.93
19.96
31.33
48.43
55.79
66.17
71.49
cr.ss
57.28
46.54
34.26
20.88
' 43.52
65.51
46.01
19.91
44 49
644
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT WINNEBAGO, AVISCONSIN.
Latitude 43° 31', Longitude 89° 28'. Altitude 770? feet.
* The summer months of tliis year are reported as unprecedentedly hot and dry in Wisconsin.
FORT CRAWFORD, WISCONSIN.
Latitude 43° 05', Longitude 91° 00' Altitude 642 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer. Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1329....
25.49
9.64
83.77
46.83
64.01
68.40
70.08
70.36
61.11
65.45
31.00
33.75
48.20
69 61
49.19
22,96
47.49
1880*...
17.48
28.20
33.40
67.85
61.97
71.88
83.65
76.20
68.33
60.21
47.62
28.24
52.67
77.08
57.22
22.96
62.46
1881....
18. T7
18.94
40.12
49.18
61.44
78.55
74.49
72.46
61.87
51.97
83. S5
9.88
60.25
73.60
49.06
14.16
46 74
1832....
24.40
16.52
41.58
58.52
67.40
72.75
76.04
71.83
64.95
65.69
87.02
82.63
60.88
78.89
52.65
24.62
50.83
18SS....
29.82
28.81
42.20
54.06
1834....
69.73
47.85
89.00
22.61
1885....
21.18
7.8S
80.83
48.08
53.94
61.10
67.99
64.85
61.18
45.75
27.14
18.62
44.28
65.48
41.86
15.71
41.71
1S36....
15.95
17.66
20.49
40.84
56.65
62.06
67.56
61.67
54.83
36.75
81,25
16.93
89.16
63.76
40.78
18.63
89.81
1687....
16.67
19.68
23.30
86.44
60.34
61.73
63.29
04.12
65.77
46.31
35.05
20.77
36.69
64.71
45.71
19.04
41.61
1838....
17.95
6.04
37.89
87.50
49.35
66.57
73.01
63.22
66.49
89.21
21.68
12.93
41.68
69.27
89.11
12.81
40.57
1839....
22.36
22.79
30.47
83.97'
54.73
60.57
68.56
64.02
51.22
52.42
23.16
22.83
46.41
64.83
43.93
22.49
44.80
1840....
12.78
22.97
81.62
44.76
58.95
65.38
66.52
64.49
64.45
43.82
30.00
16.45
45.08
C5.46
42.76
17.40
42.67
1811....
12.03
15.03
28.93
39.69
65.99
66.27
67.97
63.96
54.50
42.60
81.67
23.49
41.52
66.07
42.89
16.87
41.84
1842....
20.52
21.95
39.70
60.68
52.83
67.76
66.16
65.39
67.63
47.89
20.76
18.81
47.72
63.10
44.69
20.26
43.79
1848. ..
22.08
8.75
12.38
44.31
68.22
64.26
70.59
07.04
61.83
89.29
29.83
37.24
86.64
67.80
48.67
19.84
41.74
1814....
16.67
24.47
35.02
55.17
63.21
71.10
60.43
69.10
43.69
32.11
20.87
66.91
44.98
20.64
1845....
23.58
27.54
84.96
48.40
67.41
66.57
72.22
69.06
46.92
69.48
Mean 1
lOyrs \
19.52
18.50
32.60
47.20
66.66
65.63
70.95
67.81
57.88
47.90
82.14
21.83
45.49
67.96
45.96
19.73
44.80
1822....
14.86
28.78
88.01
43.99
60.45
69.25
78.66
72.70
61.16
44,87
34.26
9.53
47.43
71.87
46.60
1G.04
45.50
1824....
24.59
20.14
26.96
43.86
53.46
67.90
71.34
70.12
61.84
46.58
41.86
26.66
43.09
69.79
46.74
28.76
45.81
1625....
18.65
30.45
40.96
1829....
71.00
73.76
63.05
64.81
30.26
31.98
49.37
1830. ..
20.21
27.84
83.42
56.76
61.10
73.53
81.46
77.07
61.45
65.97
45.90
19.23
53.09
77.35
64.44
23.44
61.88
1831....
9.92
18.90
86.80
47.26
61.90
72.69
76.66
71.98
60.17
52.00
29.54
6.97
43.65
73.73
47.24
11.60
45.80
1833....
IS. 42
9.96
87.48
51.34
85.92
72.75
74.40
70.06
62.03
52.01
85.13
28.90
49.40
72.40
49.70
19.09
47.66
1888....
_ 27.57
23.94
84.85
68.86
61.92
70.49
73.72
76.67
70.27
43.79
39.47
32.68
62.83
75.20
51.13
23.06
51.84
1884....
7.96
34.16
84.74
67.44
51.07
63. S8
80.49
77.65
69.56
43.63
41.99
27.93
47.75
75.61
60.04
23.85
49.19
1835....
26.27
9.47
3S.74
46.45
61.57
63.77
78.88
70.25
66.45
49.57
29.74
21.69
43.92
70.96
45.25
19.14
46.06
1836...
17.72
20.08
24.22
45.78
68.91
67.45
72.95
67.26
60.49
41.71
34.83
20.51
44.62
69.22
45.63
19.42
45.58
1837....
13.43
25.84
26.86
42.66
66.71
64.03
73.74
70.97
61.14
50.06
89.66
21.67
42.02
69.00
60.29
21.95
45.96
1333....
22.08
6.92
48.48.
45.16
66.68
72.40
78.22
78.95
63.99
45. S7
27.45
17.86
48,41
74.86
45.77
15.60
46.16
1389 ...
27.88
23.88
35.65
61.56
63.44
69.51
78.71
72.05
58. SI
69.53
38.55
25.49
63.65
78.42
60.63
27.25
61.46
1846....
16.21
26.46
87.15
61.34
65.97
78.69
73.31
70.60
69.45
47.91
85.63
28.42
61.49
72.67
47.67
22.08
48.44
1841....
16.79
21.78
86.92
44.99
04.78
71.48
74.25
69.16
59.49
47,61
86.87
25.62
49.90
71.61
48.99
21,46
47.74
1842....
20.31
22.71
43.95
69.63
59.61
67. 6S
73.73
71.13
62.74
53.89
29.14
19.47
64.42
70.85
48.46
20.63
48.64
1818....
20.17
7.70
8.29
45.60
56.22
67.16
74.00
71.10
65.13
40.22
81.27
28.61
86.70
70.76
45.66
18.88
42.96
1844....
17.25
24.70
87.63
67.24
60.63
66.12
74.19
70.00
60.43
46.74
85.79
20.47
51.67
70.10
47.05
20.81
47.61
1845....
24.43
28.06
88.27
52.57
61.01
68.07
75.25
72.88
60.62
71.88
Mean 1
19.v'rs f
19.43
21.67
84.. 58
60.88
60.63
69.55
75.26
72.03
61.54
48 92
34.66
22.65
48.66
72.28
i
48.34
21.25
47.63
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
545
FORT ARMSTRONG, ILLINOIS.
Latitude 41° 30', Longitude 90° 40'. Altitude 528/eet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
i
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
1
Summer Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1824....
29.58
24.57
33.92
49.17
61.64
70.05
76.47
74.06
64.21
50.47
34.23
29.55
47.91
73.53
49.64
27.90
49.74
1825....
21.59
33.04
42.04
54.35
65.12
74.64
79.91
77.51
65.92
52.04
41.95
a. 98
53.84
77.35
53.30
25.87
52.59
1826....
19.26
22.74
37.16
44.95
68.89
74.28
76.41
72.20
63.59
57.52
43.54
26.63
50.33
74.30
&1.88
22.86
50.60
1827....
21.75
31.37
40.43
51.18
63.83
72.31
78.38
76.66
67.43
52.26
38.64
27.74
51.81
75.78
52.78
26.95
51.83
1828....
24.28
31.08
35.69
48.25
62.03
75.54
76.85
76.73
60.84
54.29
40.89
33.47
48.66
76.37
52.01
29.61
51.66
1829....
25.75
12.41
32 56
49.73
67.08
74.12
75.10
74.88
62.94
54.78
29.80
34.60
49.79
74.70
49.17
24.25
49.48
1830....
23.45
30.29
41.18
.'iS.90
62.38
72.26
81.36
76.58
62.87
57.00
49.99
26.39
53.15
76.73
56.62
26.69
53.30
1831....
13.10
17.72
38.89
48.56
59.64
70.45
74.34
72.13
59.56
50.90
35.57
9.56
49.03
72.31
48.68
13.46
45.87
1832....
23.35
17.43
41.06
54.92
58.42
73.24
51.47
1833....
31.30
28.12
37.68
55.68
63 30
65.88
74.62
73.24
64.90
43.43
39.97
32.90
52.32
71.25
49.43
30.77
50.93
1834....
12.82
36.17
39.07
54.44
59.70
67.64
76.87
75.38
59.64
48.81
40.89
30.00
51.07
73.30
49.78
26.33
50.13
1835....
27.38
11.28
35.22
45.66
60.10
66.26
71.03
69.84
60.82
53.38
33.75
24.91
46.99
69.04
49.32
21.19
46.63
Mean
lily's
23.80
24.68
37.82
51.06
62.70
71.39
76.49
74.47
63.90
52.26
39.02
27.16
50.53
74.12
51.73
34.88
50.31
1
FORT ATKINSON, IOWA.
Latitude 43° 00', Longitude 92° 00'. Altitude 700 .^ feet.
FORT DES MOINES, IOWA.
Latitude 41° 32', Longitude 93° 38'. Altitude 180/eef.
FORT GAINES, (RIPLEY,) MINNESOTA.
Latitude 46° 19', Longitude 94° 19'. Altitude l,ldO/eet.
1843....
18.07
20.76
32.51
54.90
56.94
62.31
70.13
70.76
65.96
55.91
31.80
19.17
51.45
67.73
51.32
19.33
47.43
1843....
21.17
8.39
7.53
44.40
55.08
66.31
72.73
67.17
62.10
38.24
29.90
26.90
35.67
68.73
43.44
18.62
41.66
1844....
14.32
23.61
35.01
55.39
57.32
64.10
73.39
67.40
58.36
43.25
32.23
18.76
49.24
68.30
44.61
16.89
45.26
1845....
22.48
26.59
34.90
49.00
58.67
66.34
73.53
69.. 15
59.59
45.20
31.02
16.71
47.52
69.74
45.27
21.93
46.11
1846....
29.70
22.35
38.00
45.58
64.21
!
1
49.26
Mean...
21.15
20.34
31.59
49.85
58.44
64.76
73.44
68.67
61.50
45.65
31.25
20.38
46.63
68.62
46.13
30.62
45.50
1843....
•••■•■
43.50
34.93
31.50
1844....
31.08
33.97
38.88
59.24
59.33
64.88
76.46
71.61
59.36
45.86
35.70
36.90
£2.46
70.98
46.97
27.32
49.44
1845....
38.96
33.08
40.20
52.30
59.11
67.99
76.52
71.86
62.98
50.54
72.12
1846....
32.35
23.90
Mean. . .
27.43
39.98
39.54
55.77
59.22
66.43
76.49
71.73
61.17
44.68
35.31
29.20
51.51
71.55
47.05
36.87
49.74
1849....
67.68
64.38
56.83
43.05
37.26
4.94
1
1
45.71
1850....
7.94
13.03
20.27
32.54
50.99
63.76
66.21
67.84
54.60
43.65
30.50
6.03
34.60
65.94
42.65
8.99
38.05
1851....
9.25
14.46
31 33
39.81
48.44
60.04
61.61
60.03
43.36
24.33
7.41
39.66
42.57
10.37
1852....
10.08
17.53
31.21
38.55
55.96
63.05
68.00
66.58
53.43
45.01
22.56
9.37
37.90
65.87
40.33
12.33
39.11
1853....
13.61
7.11
22.46
43.85
52.02
62.92
65.70
66.34
56.53
41.45
34.20
15.74
' 39.44
64.98
40.73
13.15
39.32
1854...
— 2.10*
10.88
37.36
45.58
52.11
64.01
68.93
61.78
58.59
48.27
29.52
18.19
: 41.65
64.91
45.46
8.99
40.25
1855....
8.42
8.22
23.69
46.16
57.69
63.90
43.51
Mean )
6 y'rs 5
7.67
11.87
34.37
40.75
52.87
62.78
67.30
64.74
56.67
44.00
28.06
10.28
> 39.33
64 94
43.91
10.01
39.30
S. 96-
-G9
*3.10 degrees betow zero.
54G
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT SNELLING, MINNESOTA.
Latitude 44° 53', Longitude 93° 10'. Altitude 820 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
.March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
.ec.
Spring.
Summer Autumn Winter
Year.
1819....
44.13
33.04
20.00
ISJO....
0.92
21.29
26.43
52.72
60.64
70.86
68.86
68.33
62.01
30.71
10.83
46.60
69.35
11.01
1821....
7.38
14.51
29.04
40.63
57.08
74.27
72.26
75.06
59.00
48.72
30.74
10.58
42.25
73.86
46.15
10.82
43.27
18-S....
11.68
19.92
37.39
43.75
61.28
70.19
75.47
72.77
60.58
42.56
30.58
3.26
47.47
72.81
44.57
11.62
44,12
1823....
13.16
S.95
29.87
49.26
56.94
73.96
75.83
72.00
56.03
47.13
31.75
13.56
45.36
73.94
44.97
10.89
43,79
1824....
17.17
14.20
23.8fi
41.78
56.39
66.03
73.03
70.50
61.03
41.92
29.96
22.33
40.31
69.85
44.30
17.87
43,08
1825....
14.84
26.25
36.29
55 19
60.90
70.67
75.54
73.01
62.87
45.98
33.94
14.36
50.79
73.07
47.60
18.48
47,48
1826....
13.09
16.15
29.60
37.68
66.76
72.05
73.8.5
70.24
55.32
49.13
35.29
19.15
44.68
72.05
46., 58
16.13
44.86
1827....
17.26
24.86
31.74
44.76
62.93
71.95
74.06
70.35
61.02
49.26
31.99
13.01
46.48
72.12
47.42
18.38
46.10
1828....
10.43
16.80
32.24
45.04
60.28
71.82
76.40
74.46
58.83
50.12
35.18
34.87
45.85
74.23
48.04
17.36
46,37
1829....
15.97
7.51
29.87
48.03
68.17
73.63
73.57
71.34
57.77
50.46
27.14
25.08
48 69
72 83
45.12
16.19
45,71
IMO....
14.18
23.60
34.00
51.77
59.70
70.31
81.66
73.21
58.70
54.74
42.79
15 64
48.49
75.06
52.08
17.81
48.36
1831....
8.84
14.04
32.28
45.13
61.11
70.06
73.81
71.51
54.78
48.28
31.16
3.28
46.17
71.79
44.74
8.72
42.85
1832....
17.16
6.46
.38.05
53 97
55.89
66.94
73.72
67.61
60.50
50.67
33.54
35.77
49.30
69.42
48.24
16.46
45.85
1833....
21.19
20.93
34.09
51.76
61.09
67.97
75.17
70.75
63.61
41.43
37.. 11
31.37
48.98
71.26
47.05
34.50
47.95
1834....
5.63
31.16
32.32
51.67
61.76
67.18
77.75
73.32
56.69
45.82
40.02
31.84
48.58
72.75
47.51
19.54
47.09
1835....
23.49
9.28
32 72
43.99
62.56
68.30
70.65
68.00
54.63
45.69
24.38
17.29
46.42
68.98
41.57
16.69
43.41
I83G....
13.42
17.04
20.25
43.67
64.29
67.38
72.13
66.12
56.80
41.94
34.37
19.00
42.74
68.54
44.37
16.15
42.95
1S37....
19.47
25.08
24.54
41.33
54.06
64.50
71.32
67.92
58.39
46.53
37.79
17.81
39.98
67.58
47.50
30.79
43.95
1838....
9.74
4.4S
37.44
41.78
53.07
70.43
75.64
72.67
61.12
42.72
20.53
11.36
44.10*
72.91
41.46
8,52
41.75
Ili39....
22.49
34 80
29.63
57.28
57.18
67.13
73.89
71.14
56.34
54.40
30.14
22.05
48.03
70.72
46.96
33,11
47,20
1840,...
12.43
21.85
34.81
47.50
63.83
69.60
70.47
65.93
56.88
40.92
29.47
24.14
48.71
68.67
42.42
19,47
44,82
1841....
13.82
20.48
33.19
38.15
59.72
69.83
72.32
68.33
54,38
44.80
30 41
19.78
43.69
70.16
43.20
14.69
42.93
1842....
17.80
19.54
39.15
49.83
51.87
56.03
68.40
67.69
58.17
49.29
34.60
18.03
46.95
64.04
44.02
18.46
43.39
1843....
20.70
2.01
4.67
43.55
52.35
62.98
69.90
66.56
57.95
47.72
26.61
33.14
33.49
66.48
44.09
15.28
39 83
1844....
9.41
22.33
32.94
51.45
55.08
62.64
69.82
65.61
55.57
41 45
28.10
17.05
46.49
66.02
41.71
16.26
42.62
1845....
19.49
35.60
34.57
47.62
60.83
67.64
74.19
69.47
59 79
45.64
29.50
14.10
47.67
70.43
44.98
19.73
45.70
1846....
38.81
19.53
38.41
46.37
63.65
66.82
74.21
73.86
62.80
43.87
39 85
21 57
49.48
71.62
48.51
33,30
48.23
1847....
4.24
19.70
23.88
46.18
52.64
65.24
71.90
66.73
57.99
46.66
30.45
16.36
40.90
67.96
45.03
13,43
41.83
1848....
16.94
19.46
38.23
44.79
60.11
67.45
67.00
67.16
53.97
50.19
25.68
8.62
44.37
67.20
43.28
15,01
42.46
1849....
5.42
13.93
30.26
39.69
54.77
68.22
71.63
63.85
61.54
47.23
41.60
8.76
41 91
67.90
50.12
9.04
42.37
1850....
13.84
17.83
24 05
35.43
55.81
70.51
75.85
73.90
61.06
49.22
33.73
13.42
37.76
73.42
48.00
14,69
43.47
1851....
14 95
22.10
39.37
50.14
57.99
67.80
76.34
68.41
69.08
52.05
30.27
11.16
49.17
70.85
50.46
16.07
46.54
1852.. .
12.82
23.14
26 80
43.07
58.48
70.06
73.68
71.57
54.20
53.13
25.73
11.67
42.78
71.77
44.35
15.88
43.69
1853....
14.03
6.69
23.00
44.97
54.97
67.83
70.60
71.27
60.04
45.60
29.60
18.23
40.98
69.90
45.08
12.98
46.74
1854....
1.30
15.40
30.74
48.54
57.82
70.01
75.04
71.12
61.66
52.10
32.30
20.65 I
45.70
72.06
48.69
12,45
44,73
1855....
17.09
12. G2
25.30
49.86
61.29
66 15
58.86
45.48
Mean
35} y'rs.
i 13.76
17.57
31.41
46.34
58.97
68.46
73.57
70.05
47.15
31.67
16.89
45.57
70.69
45.89
16,07
44.55
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
547
FORT LEAVENWORTH, KANSAS.
Latitude 39° 21', Longitude 9-1° 44'. Altitude 896/ee<.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1830....
34.18
40 58
48.52
58.87
64.18
74.34
80.71
78.97
67.21
62.51
46 84
36.71
57.19
78.01
58.85
33.82
56.97
1831....
ia.51
24.40
46.41
55.14
64.14
70.24
76.60
71.06
62.18
53.51
40.94
18 21
55.23
72.63
52.21
30.71
50.19
1832....
36.85
18.56
46.34
59.48
61.31
72 44
76.53
73.03
68.02
56.49
41.30
35.25
55.71
74.00
55.17
30.iS
54.77
1833....
35.66
35.72
40.92
59.12
67.11
71.78
79.08
77.16
68.33
53.02
45.93
37.51
42.38
76.01
55.77
36.30
52.61
1834....
13.51
35.79
40.92
58.89
65.10
72.04
78.04
78.06
61.53
54.23
44.95
30.67
41.23
76.05
53.57
36.66
49.38
1835.. .
29.50
19.37
40.98
51.46
67.01
78.35
52.65
32.93
31.94
53.15
28.94
1836....
25 62
29.73
33.07
53.98
66.31
68.68
73.94
70.85
64.08
46.63
39.39
27.54
51.12
71.16
50.00
24.30
49.14
1837....
26.34
34.42
36.57
47.21
59.27
71.23
81.46
75.71
64.90
55.76
49.79
36.94
47.68
76.13
56.82
32.57
53.30
1838....
27.73
17.38
46.90
58.04
61.10
74.88
82.34
77.91
68.69
51.00
28 59
24.05
55.35
78.38
49.43
23.05
51.55
1833....
33.84
36.36
48.22
64.06
64.15
70.34
75.57
72.37
61.35
59.78
37.57
27.84
57.14
72.83
52.90
33.35
54.05
1840....
22.80
34.61
42.92
55.79
63.11
70.91
72.35
72.22
60.68
53.72
38.93
33.15
53.94
71.83
51.11
30.19
51.77
1841....
27.73
27.80
42.00
51.47
63.55
72.21
77.60
70.51
59.15
50.54
39 37
31.08
52.34
73.44
49.69
28.87
51.08
1842....
34.98
35.59
53.42
60.56
62.97
67.48
72.89
71.15
66.64
58.(B
32.52
25.67
58.98
70.51
52.06
33.08
53.41
1843....
28.96
20.50
17.45
49.76
60.40
70.50
74.46
72.25
67.24
49.04
40.20
36 12
42.54
72.40
53.16
28.53
48.91
1844.. .
25.88
33.66
40.19
63.46
62.04
68.75
77.47
73.91
63.44
51.46
38.39
32.18
55.23
73.88
51.10
30.57
52.57
1843....
36.05
37.52
44.44
59.. W
63.29
70.27
78.70
75.62
69.53
52.96
41.14
26.66
55.76
74.86
54.54
33.61
54.69
1846....
38.22
31.01
46 65
54.92
66.80
68.87
77.85
77.06
69.04
54.36
45.00
33.08
56.12
74.59
56.13
34.10
55.86
1847....
18.16
31.26
!)4.95
57.90
59.45
69.91
75.83
69.24
65.63
55.70
38.24
30.00
47.43
71.66
53.19
26.47
49.69
1848....
32.96
35.35
40.67
52.70
66.49
69.03
72.34
69.74
53.29
70.38
«
1849....
18.25
24.78
45.65
53.00
63.45
73.32
74.57
73.K
69.27
52.84
50.31
26.68
54.03
73.74
57.47
23.24
52.12
1850....
29.49
31.34
37.22
45.58
61.51
72.44
76.86
77.93
67.80
55,84
42.19
25.20
48.10
75.74
55.37
28.87
51.94
1831....
32.00
33.16
47.11
50.20
65.25
70.62
75.77
73.37
71.60
54.49
35.35
36.28
54.19
73.35
53.78
31.13
53.09
1852....
24.42
34.82
43.89
50.26
64.68
69.96
74.79
73.42
63.42
58.38
33.51
23.77
52.94
72.72
51.77
S8.34
51.44
1853....
32.03
30.53
39.87
54.98
59.97
72 82
72.72
75.71
68.24
53.39
44.18
31.76
51 61
73.75
55.37
31.44
53.02
1854....
24 68
35.53
45.14
56.06
65.45
72 85
81.19
79.10
73 71
60.64
41.37
34.38
55.55
77.71
58.57
31 53
55.84
1855....
38.13
38.23
52.26
60.24
64.61
69.78
77.12
59.04
Mean
244 y'fs-
1 28.00
31.15
42.22
55.47
63.64
71.31
76.67
74.18
66.16
54.46
40.36
29.77
53.78
74.05
53.66
39.64
sa.78
COUNCIL BLUFFS, NEBRASKA.
Latitude 41° 30', Longitude 95° 48'. Altitude 1,250 feet.
1820....
8.83
29.38
34.12
58.01
62.72
74.12
75.44
75.08
.68.01
46.21
32.87
18.41
51.62
74.88
49.03
18.87
48 80
1821....
10.78
34.14
37.00
45.06
58,59
75.00
72.14
7^.76
64.16
54.89
33.94
14.92
46.88
74.97
51.66
16.81
47.53
1822....
21.02
33.87
44.81
49.31
63.92
74.01
79.62
77.27
67.81
49.13
35.34
12.80
52.68
76.97
50.76
22.23
50.66
1823....
32.37
16.07
38.87
55.04
61.82
78.99
79.00
76.70
66.83
55.69
41.44
27.48
51.91
78.33
54.65
21.97
51.69
1624....
37.19
27.46
28.42
47.37
63,34
67.45
75.92
75.13
64.45
51.30
30.07
23.81
46 38
73.84
46.61
26.83
48.66
1825....
30.42
32.91
40.34
59.45
66.98
73.05
75.30
76.66
64.34
54.74
43.05
34.17
55.59
75.00
54.04
23.63
53.61
1843*.. .
24.90
13.78
12.88
48.63
58.33
68.25
73.77
69.46
63.80
39.90
49.38
70.49
Mean >
7 yVsj. J
19.36
25.23
33.77
51.84
62.33
72.98
75.88
75.44
65.63
53.00
35.45
20.60
74.76
51.36
SI. 73
49.98
■ The observalions in 1843 were at fort OrogAon, Iowa, twenty miles south of Council Blufls.
548
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT KEARNY. NEBRASKA.
Latitude 40° 38', Longitude 98° 57'. Altitude 2,360 feet.
I'ORT LARAMIE, NEBRASKA.
Latitude 42° 12', Longitude 104° 31'. Altitude 4,519 /ee<.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1849....
7.10
15.77
35.80
46.92
38.24
67.95
70.95
68 92
65.23
46.74
40.94
17.89
47.00
69.27
30.97
13.59
45.20
1830....
23.92
27.28
31.74
39.94
58.90
68.20
74.95
73.00
63.85
41.98
35.31
19.15
43.52
72.03
47.04
23.11
46.43
1851....
27.00
28.11
45.58
60.63
67.00
76.17
70.82
69.58
50.45
30.38
19.69
71.33
50.14
24.93
1852....
23.07
30.93
33.34
43.30
60.09
67.80
72.62
72.01
38.77
33.35
28.17
15.07
45.57
70.81
46.10
23.02
46.38
1853....
26.08
24.61
36.50
48.58
53.39
70.26
71.52
73.15
63.00
48.94
34.16
29.26
46.22
71.64
48.70
26.65
48.30
1854....
18.26
30.37
36.76
51.22
39.31
68.92
75.16
76.10
66.10
55.91
37.44
30.15
49.10
73.39
33.15
26.26
50 47
1853....
23.33
25.69
32.86
54.39
60.89
69.44
49.38
Mean 1
6iy'r4
21.14
25.11
34.50
47.13
58.81
68.31
73.56
72.33
64.42
49.56
34.07
21.87
46.81
71.47
49.35
23.04
47.67
1849....
61.98
43 50
37.28
23.92
47.59
1850....
27.35
36.27
35.50
43.25
56.04
66.91
72.87
73.51
67.13
34.58
35.05
26.62
44.93
71.10
52.25
30.08
49.59
1851....
35,57
31.21
41.00
47.45
33.15
67.21
77.38
72.69
69.32
51.56
33.24
24.74
47.86
72.43
51.37
30.50
50.54
1832....
30.68
33.02
30.00
42.80
57.11
67.18
75.05
73.10
58.77
49.56
25.23
19.92
43.30
71.78
44.52
27.87
46.87
1853....
34.11
29.71
36.92
48.57
51.62
65.59
72.97
73.14
61.11
49.67
41.73
33.72
45.70
70.57
50.84
32.51
49.90
1854....
22.60
36.40
41.06
50.62
36.92
67.73
75.24
76.46
66.95
56.59
42.44
38.94
49.53
73.14
55.33
32.65
52.66
1855....
35.85
29.01
35.41
32.94
59.82
69.44
49.72
Mean
6 y'rs.
31.03
32.60
36.81
47.60
56.11
67.34
74.70
73.78
64.21
50.91
35.83
27.98
46.84
71.94
50.32
31.14
50.08
FORT ARBUCKLE, INDIAN TERRITORY.
Latitude 34° 27', Longitude 97° 09'. Altitude 1,000? feet.
1850....
60.68
52.92
34.15
#...
1851....
39.28
43.11
34.62
56.96
69.11
78.03
81.83
84.55
77.13
62.80
45.56
39.47
60.23
81.47
61.83
40.62
61.04
1852....
36.77
47.07
33.76
59.77
70.25
73.71
78.26
78.04
69.05
63.11
45.10
38.82
61.26
76.67
59.09
40.89
59.48
1833....
41.33
40.68
31.24
64.26
66.23
77.35
79.50
81.81
74.51
60.77
52.91
42.44
60.58
79.55
62.73
41.48
61.08
185-1....
36.16
47.73
37 39
60.82
68.64
74.96
83.29
83.95
77.28
66.35
49.91
42.90
62.98
80.73
64.51
41.94
6J.37
1855....
41.94
39.86
49.09
67.43
73.39
77.61
85.67
67.30
Mean...
39.10
43.69
53.22
61.85
69.93
72.33
81.71
82.09
•
74.49
62.74
49.28
39.56
61.67
78.71
62.17
40.78
60.83
FORT BELKNAP, TEXAS.
Latitude 33° 08', Longitude 98° 48'. Altitude 1,600? feet.
1851....
83.31
84.70
79.93
66.20
46.64
41.93
64.28
1852....
39.40
49.77
56.26
60.08
71.15
73.88
80.58
79.93
71.48
U6.15
49.35
44.11
62.49
78.80
62.39
44.43
62.03
1853....
44.86
43.28
54.51
67.31
68.41
78.12
81.72
84.59
79.29
65.29
35.45
46.07
63.41
81.48
66.68
44.74
64.08
1854....
41.01
52.33
63.15
65.77
71.66
78.79
83.86
80.75
78.71
69.62
53.59
46.53
66.86
81.13
67.31
46.62
65.48
1853....
43.92
44.49
53.69
70.00
76.80
79.12
66.83
Mean...
43.80
47.47
58.90
65.79
72.00
77.98
82.37
82.50
77.33
66.81
51.31
44.63
64.90
80.96
65.15
44.98
63.99
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
549
FORT WORTH, TEXAS.
Latitude 32° 40', Longitude 9Y° 25'. Altitude 1,100? /ee<.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1849....
59.46
44'.34
IS-W....
49.96
50.61
55.63
61.96
67.98
77.63
81.76
85.70
79.69
66.82
53.67
38.87
61.^
81.69
66.06
46.48
64.01
1851....
45.78
46.71
56.64
61.10
72.70
79.29
82.23
84.55
78.66
66.23
48.80
44.12
63.48
82.02
64.36
45.33
63.90
1852....
40.88
51.42
68.49
61.49
73.79
76.83
81.73
79.62
71.27
65.61
51.52
46.30
64.59
79.39
62.80
46.20
63.25
1853....
45.70
46.39
54.44
65.71
67.47
76.02
78.24
61.61
62.54
78.62
Mean..
43.58
48.78
56.30
62.56
70.48
77.44
80.99
82.87
76.54
66.22
53.36
43.38
63.11
80.43
65.37
43.25
63.54
PHANTOM HILL, CLEAR FORK OF BRAZOS, TEXAS.
Latitude 32° 30', Longitude 99° 45'. Altitude 2,300? feet.
1851....
• ••• •
46.09
1852....
42.33
51.10
56.50
63.68
74.74
75.96
80.47
79.70
72.04
64.16
50.28
46.10
64.97
78.71
62.16
44.88
62.67
1853....
45.98
46.39
55.46
69.11
69.12
76.97
81.00
83.29
76.82
63.02
56.24
46.60
64.36
80.42
65.36
46.32
64.16
1854....
40.44
50.43
62.11
46.26
1
Mean..
42.92
49.31
58.02
66.39
71.93
76.46
80.73
81.49
74.43
63.59
53.26
63.45
79.56
63.76
46.16
63.73
FORT CHADBOURNE, TEXAS.
Latitude 32° 02', Longitude 100° 05'. Altitude 2,120 feet.
1852....
67.81
73.37
79.13
77.91
69.44
63.07
50.29
47.64
76.87
09.93
1853....
45.25
47.44
33.78
64.88
65.32
70.32
75.92
75.08
70.49
54.71.'
54.24
46.61
61.33
73.84
39.81
46.43
60.35
1854....
38.73
46.94
63.58
63.17
70.08
74.00
78.54
82.94
76.01
69.57
55.13
45.72
65.61
78.49
66.90
43.80
63.70
1853....
48.89
45.87
56.68
68.51
74.84
77.06
1
Mean..
44.29
46.75
58.01
65.52
69.51
73.79
77.87
78.64
71.98
62.45
53.22
46.62
J 64.35
76.77
62.36
43.87
62.38
FORT GRAHAM, TEXAS.
Latitude 31° 56', Longitude 91° 26'. Altitude dOO? feet.
1850....
1851....
1852....
1853....
48.27
44.01
51.58
49.92
55.02
51.49
57.84
58.38
58.98
57.16
62.28
62.69
64.29
67.00
68.45
74.92
74.97
72.02
78.84
81.45
77.76
79.75
83.90
84.90
84.39
79.33
85.07
87.20
82.01
84.33
78.43
80.15
73.60
66.62
68.37
67.93
53.94
53.89
56.65
40.35
48.26
50.84
62.84
65.33
66.08
65.06
82.60
84.51
81.39
81.21
66.99
67.47
66.13
48.82
49.96
66.33
63.89
Mean . .
47.95
51.81
58.09
64.31
72.59
79.45
83.13
84.70 j 77.46
67.64 1 55.49
46.48
64.99
8e.43
66.86
48.75
65.76
FORT GATES, TEXAS.
Latitude 31° 26', Longitude 97° 49'. Altitude 1,000? feet.
1849....
67.25
65.37
49.59
1850....
36.21
54.33
39.97
64.59
68.58
76.28
80.80
82.51
78.26
68.51
54.72
40.17
64.03
79.86
67.16
50.24
65.32
1851....
47.84
47.43
58.39
62.75
74.49
81.59
85.04
87.68
80.10
66.00
30.82
47.66
65.21
84.77
65.64
47.63
65.82
Mean . .
52.02
30.90
59.18
63.67
71.53
78.93
K.92
85.09
79.18
67.23
56.97
45.81
64.79
82.31
67.80
49.58
66.12
650
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SOMMAEIES.
FORT CROGHAN, TEXAS.
Latitude 30° 40', Longitude 98° 31'. Altitude 'i, 000? feet.
Jan.
Feb.
M.irch.
-April.
May.
June.
July.
Au".
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
.Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1949....
78.75
80.90
81.19
76.57
65.57
60.27
44.56
80.28
67.47
1830....
54.14
53.66
62 33
63.73
63.55
74.35
79.62
83.46
80.50
70.58
56.94
43.41
63.20
79.14
69.34
50.40
65.52
IbSl....
51.20
52.34
60.01
63.72
75.52
81.70
83.42
86.65
78.38
64.90
50.22
47.13
66.43
83.92
64.50
50.22
66.96
1852....
42.89
55.03
62.13
66.67
75.70
78.56
81.31
82.27
74.66
68.14
56.98
52.44
68.16
80.71
66.59
50.12
66.40
1853....
48.93
47.ffi
57. U6
68.50
71.40
78.35
80.03
79.22
62.32
79.20
Mean...
49.29
52.21
60.38
65.65
71.54
78.34
81.06
82.56
77.53
67.30
56.10
46.88
65.66
80.65
66.98
49.46
65.74
FORTS MARTIX SCOTT, MASON, TERRETT, AXD McKAVEPr, TEXAS.
1849.. ..1
74.79
70.57
60.05
55.66
1
62.09
1850....
54.15
52 39
57.10
62.87
65.92
73.45
75.67
78.86
73 53
62.05
51.47
39.18
61.96
75.99
62.35
48.57
62.31
1851....
42.95
47.76
54.10
62.08
71.09
77.51
78.84
80.76
74.74
64.(e
50.10
4T.01
62.42
79.04
62.95
45.91
62.58
1852....
41.44
57.20
61.63
Me.in
Ft. M.S.
U6.I8
53.45
57.61
62.47
68.50
75.48
77.20
78.14
72.95
63.04
52.41
43.09
62.86
76.94
62 80
47.24
62.46
M. 1852
72.42
77.68
75.74
77.62
80.70
73.15
68.27
54.32
49.37
78.02
65.25
M. 1853
46.57
47.45
56.84
69.35
71.30
76.96
79.53
80 60
76.69
65.57
58.16
65.83
79.03
66.81
T. 1852
65.25
75.85
77.96
80.04
80.53
73.19
66.51
53.90
48.59
79.51
64.53
T. 185:)
44.43
45.98
56.91
67.45
69.80
73.97
76.37
77.10
73.52
63.66
58.57
50.59
61.72
73.8!
65.25
47.00
63.20
Mc.1852
67.16
76.13
75.72
79.07
79.66
71.19
64.29
53.09
47.82
78.15
63.86
Mc.1853
44.62
44 58
56.02
66.75
68.58
73.36
77.56
78.76
63.78
76.56
.Mc.1854
42. S9
51.52
63.50
64.04
70.33
76.80
78.74
80.10
75.57
67.50
54.19
43.66
65.62
78.55
65.75
46.02
63.98
Mc.1855;
46.74
44.51
53.66
67.05
73.61
73.84
64.77
Mean
Fl.MeK.
1 44.75
46.87
57.39
66.25
72.16
74.93
78.46
79.51
73.38
65.89
53.64
45.74
65.27
77.63
64.30
45.79
63.23
Fort Martin ScoU— Latitude 30°
rcM— Latitude 30° 23'. longitude 100'
10', longitude 99° 05'; altitude 1,300 feet. Fort ifoMn-LaUtude 30° 48', longitude 99° 15'; altitude 1,200.' feet. Fnt Ter-
16' ; altitude 1,320 Icct. Fort i/cA'ciicH— Latitude 30° 55', longitude 100° 05' ; altitude 2,060 feet.
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS.
Latitude 29° 25', Longitude 98° 25'. Altitude 600/ee<.
1849....
i
80.48
79.34
78.94
71.90
63.59
53.66
i
72.14
1830....
57.28
56.78
62.53
69.33
72.55
80.61
84.75
85.88
83 06
73.27
63.63
47.67
74.67
83.74
73.32
53.91
71.41
1851...
54.51
53.66
60.83
66.06
74.76 '
78.88
79.16
83 96
77.85
71.00
56.28
51.51
67.22
80.67
68.38
53.32
67 37
1832....
47.18
62.19
66.22
72.90
81.88 1
82.07
83.74
86.41
79.29
72.54
73.66
84.07
Mean...
53.26
57 54
63.19
69.44
76.40 '-
i
80.52
82.03
83.^
79.78
72.18
61.83
50.95
69.68
^.16
71.36
53.^2
69.35
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
551
FORT MERRILL, TEXAS.
Latitude 28° 17', Longitude 98° 00'. Altitude lad? feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
.-Vprll.
May.
June.
July.
■'Vug-
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
.Autumn Winter.
Year.
1851....
69.57
77.34
82.30
81.82
84.95
78.70
72.00
59.64
59.50
83.02
70.11
1S32....
72.46
79.67
80.30
81.85
1
1853....
83.96
79.96
75.18
66.36
58.66 ,
73.80
1854....
55.14
59.56
75.50
76.54
80.73
84.82
85.91
84.39
81.09
75.00
61.76
52.17 j
77.59
85.04
72.62
55.66
72.73
1855....
54.51
54.65
01.83
74.50
81.13
80.11
72.48
56.27
Mean...
54.82
57.20
68.66
73.27
79.72
81.88
83.19
84.43
79.92
74.06
62.55
56.78 !
73.88
83.17
72.18
71.37
FORT E^VELL, TEXAS.
Latitude 28° 05', Longitude 98° 57'. Altitude 200 ? feet.
1852....
79.54
73.38
65.13
58.71
72.68
1
1853....
55 37
57.10
63.87
75.61
79.38
83.80
86.52
84.47
80.79
71.49
64.41
55.08
72.95
84.93
72.23
55.85
71.49
1854....
50.47
58.12
70.34 I
72.50
77.45
81.61
82 22
83. K
81.38
\
73.43 ;
i
82.35
Mean...
52.92
57.61
67.00
74.05
78.41
82.70
84.37
83.84
80.57
72.43
64.77
56.89
73.15
83.64
72.59
55.81
71.30
CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS.
Latitude 27'' 47', Longitude 97° 27'. Altitude 20 feet.
1815....
62.22
51.%
1846....
56.30
56.98
63.21
68.50
77.29
80.10
82.22
82.04
81.15
73.69
69.66
81.45
1849....
81.25
81.11
81.01
74.36
72.24
62.21
75.87
1851....
69.96
71.23
79.86
K.62
82.86
84.74
80.38
72.12
60.21
56.50
73.69
83.44
71.23
!
1854....
76.61
83.27
83.40
84.61
81.62
83.43
Mean...
56.30
56.98
66.59
69.86
77.89
82.00
82.46
83.12
81.04
73.39
64.89
56.88
71.45
S.53
73.11
56.72 j 70.95
The observations in 1849 were at Point Isabel, south of Corpus Chiisti.
FORT BROWN, TEXAS, (MATAMOROS.)
Latitude 25° 53' 16.3", Longitude 97° 26' 22.5". Altitude 50 feet.
1846.. .
75.36
72.81
1847....
56 51
64.14
67.60
77.29
82.38
84.79
85.43
84.56
80.88
76.32
70.25
61.37
75.78
84.93
75.82
61.34
74.47
1848....
65.43
66.17
69.61
72.03
81.22
1
74.29
1849....
78.97
71.01
68.97
62.sa '
72.98
1850 ...
62.49
66.03
70.61
73 24
74.31
80.43
84.87
84. TB
84.74
76.26
67.26
58. !S
73.32
83.32
76.08
62.24
73.49
1851....
60.54
65.21
66.69
75.18
81.60
83.11
82.41
85.83
79.83
73.23
61.89
57.94
74.49
83.45
72 65
61.23
T2.95
1852....
55.48
69.77
71.04
75 81
80.40
81.14
82.51
83.05
80.30
77.09
69.68
65.57
75.78
82.23
75.69
63.61
74.31
1853....
56.35
59.84
69.94
78.73
78.97
82 06
84.43
82.76
78.91
71.11
09.37
62.26
75.88
83.09
73.13
59.48
79.89
1854....
59.34
62.45
71.87
73.90
81.00
83.67
84.06
82.00
81.06
76.44
70.35
60.73
75.59
83.24
75.95
60.91
73.93
1855...
60.23
61.60
66.24
74.98
81.77
81.05
73.25
Mean...
59.80
64.40
69.21
75.14
80.91
82.32
83.95
83.83
80.67
74.49
69.14
62.64
74.85
83.37
74.77
63.28
73.82
Note.
ihe river.
-The observniioiii arc repoitcd aa from Matamoros for most of iJie period previous to 1849, though generally taken at positions on the north side of
552
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
RINGGOLD BARRACKS, TEXAS.
Latilude 26° 22' 30.5", Longitude 98° 46' 37.93". Altitude o2l/eet.
FORT McINTOSH, LAREDO, TEXAS.
Latitude 27° 30' 08", Longitude 99° 29' 07". Altitude 80&/eet.
FORT DUNCAN, EAGLE PASS, TEXAS.
Latitude 28° 42' 43.7", Longitude 100° 30' 26.7" Altitude l,460/ee«.
FORT INGE, TEXAS.
Latitude 29° 10' 18.4", Longitude 99° 47' 10". Altitude 8^5 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
61.09
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1849....
72.97
69.85
1850....
65.48
65.57
70.95
76.92
76.97
85.17
88.94
89.06
83.08
77.08
66.60
55.65
74.64
87.72
75.58
62.23
75.54
1851....
59.68
63.04
72.50
77.55
83.80
86.39
84.33
87.07
80.58
75.01
63.19
59.36
77.62
85.93
78.59
60.69
75.71
1852....
52.77
69.84
73.50
77.67
83.41
83.60
85.69
87.00
81.68
75.47
68.97
62.92
78.19
85.43
75.37
61.84
75.21
1M3....
57.32
60.59
67.43
77.59
82.07
83.80
87.32
S4.50
80.62
73.28
69.34
61.03
75.86
85.31
74.41
59.65
73.78
1854 ...
55.72
62.38
74.10
76.39
81.74
84.30
82.65
83.01
81.31
75.98
65.42
56.44
77.41
83.32
74.24
58.18
73.29
1855....
59.38
59.03
65.54
76.21
83.51
Si.l5
75.09
Mean)
6 y'ra. i
58.39
63.41
70.67
77.05
82.00
84.65
85.18
86.13
81.45
74.98
67.23
59.41
76.57
85.32
74.54
60.40
74 21
1849....
86.38
84.60
80.76
71.19
66.11
56.65
72.68
1850....
60.78
61.85
68.62
74.04
76.42
82.23
86.09
90.12
86.64
75.73
62.85
50.80 ,
73.02
86.68
75.07
57.47
73.06
1851....
57.67
61.17
67.^
74.81
^.92
86.02
86.41
90.32
82.46
73.24
60.25
55.14 1
75.22
87.58
71.98
57.99
73.19
1852....
50.59
67.72
71.54
77.58
84.52
84.67
87.36
89.61
82.16
75.15
66.62
59.58
77.88
87.21
74.64
59.29
74.76
1853....
55.18
56.97
66.36
78.24
81.73
84.26
87.71
85.72
82.39
72.92
67.98
57.71
75.44
85.90
74.43
56.62
73.10
1854....
53.02
60.02
74.23
77.19
81.41
83.69
84.06
84.50
81.16
77.19
64.33
53.80
77.61
84.08
74.23
55.61
72.88
1855....
56.63
57.30
65.29
78.08
84.20
82.73
64.69
55.61
75.86
Mean)
6 y'rs. j
55.64
60.84
68.99
76.66
81.87
83.93
86.33
87.48
^.59
74.24
75.84
85.91
73.84
57.36
73.24
1849....
68.55
62.71
53.89
1850....
58.63
58.74
66.19
69.97
75.44
80.78
83.44
86.49
84.38
74.70
63.49
50.22
70.46
83.57
74.19
^.86
71.02
18S1....
55.58
57.88
65.01
74.15
81.33
85.39
86.07
88.25
83.76
74.62
62.15
53.57
73.49
86.57
73.51
55.68
72.31
1852....
47.96
63.03
66.62
74.42
82.76
64.80
65.67
88.17
80.71
72.61
58.80
54.45
77.80
86.21
70.71
55.81
72.63
1853....
49.47
52.95
62.85
74.67
79.86
81.20
84.65
61.79
80.67
69.64
62.98
51.80
72.46
82.55
71.10
51.41
69.38
1854....
50.25
58 20
68.67
72.18
78.92
81.87
83.52
84.98
81.74
75.75
61.(6
50.14
73.26
83.46
72.84
52.86
70.60
1855....
50.51
53.25
61.24
75.26
80.00
72.17
Mean 1
6y>™. r
52.07
57.34
65.10
73.44
79.72
82.81
84.67
85.96
82.25
72.64
61.86
52.34
72.75
84.48
72.25
53.92
70.85
1849....
78.45
66.20
60.22
52.81
1850...
54.91
55.87
61.86
63.11
70.98
78.42
81.87
83.60
81.91
68.02
61.14
45.81
64.98
81.26
70.39
52.19
67.20
1851....
57.11
62.18
67.25
78.90
81.38
81.70
83.13
78.40
68.00
55.00
53.04
69.44
82.07
67.13
1852....
44.59
60.32
62.96
68.84
76.95
77.45
79.77
81.69
75.30
68.32
57.57
52.79
69.58
79.63
67.06
52.57
67.21
1853....
48.37
52.38
60.00
70.38
75.12
77.84
81.27
80.68
77.53
66.76
60.75
54.00
68.50
79.93
68.35
51.56
67.09
1854....
47.34
56.04
67.54
64.06
74. S9
81.91
83.03
83.95
80.71
73.95
60.29
50.34
68.83
82.96
71.65
51.21
6S.66
1855....
52.21
50.63
61.iS
74.48
Mean 1
6yra.f
49.46
55.39
62.63
68.02
75.37
79.40
81.53
82.61
78.72
68.54
59.16
51.46 j
68.67
81.18
68.81
52.10
67.69
CONSOLIDATED TABLES A^fD SUMMARIES.
553
FOET LINCOLX, TEXAS.
Latitude 29° 22', Longitude 99° 33'. Altitude 900? feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
. June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer, Autumn Winter.
Year.
1849...
80.61
78.03
65.93
53.67
1850...
57.00
56.53
62.32
64.39
68.85
76.77
81.47
82.52
81.65
77.15
65.19
80 25
1851...
81.98
84.43
79.61
66.%
S5 64
53.92
67.39
1852...
46.53
61.52
64.32
69.23
77.60
79.88
83.37
70.38
Mean..
51.74
59.02
63.32
66.81
73.22
78.32
82.27
82.52
79.76
70.00
55.64
53.79
67.78
81.04
68.47 54.85
68.03
FORT CLARK, 'mXAS.
Latitude 29° 17', Longitude 100° 25'. Altitude 1,000 ? feet.
1852....
'
80.51
74.80
68.46
58.38
53.21
67.18
1853....
49.16
50.77
56.89
70.09
73.85
77.18 1
79.96
78 74
76.45
66.22
62.23
52.92
66.94
78.63
68.30
50.95
66.30
1854....
48.41
55.01
66.37
68.72
75.00
79.81
81.97
83.93
80.45
73.32
60.32
51.70
70.03
81.90
71.36
51.71
68.75
1855....
44.06
42.36
61.11
71.72
78.13
80.45
70.35
Mean
3 y'rs. f
47.21
49.38
61.46
70.18
75.66
79.15
80.96
81.06
77.23
69.33
60.31
52.61
69.10
80.39
68.96
49.73
67.04
FORT FILLMORE, NEW MEXICO.
Latitude 32° 13' 38.5", Longitude 106° 15'. Altitude 3,937 /ee<.
1851....
1
79.60
63.18
48.17
44.14
......
63.98
1852....
39.69
49.73
48.43
56.53
68.67
78.05
79.59
76.42
74.27
59.03
46.00
44.11
57.87
78.01
59.77
44.51
60.04
1853....
41.71
44.98
52.66
65.54
72.50
81.84
85.36
81.39
77.53
65.00
57.48
50. K
63.53
K.86
66.67
45.84
64.72
1854....
48.62
50.41
59.71
66.10
68.59
80.61
85.12
81.24
77.43
70.37
53.23
46.73
64.80
K.32
67.00
48.59
65.68
1855....
47.88
50.62
61.03
69.39
75.51
83.19
68.64
Mean..
44.47
48.93
55.46
64.39
71.32
80.92
83.36
79.68
77.21
64.39
51.22
46.45
63.72
81.32
64.27
46.62
63.98
FORT WEBSTER, NEW MEXICO.
Latitude 32° 47' 53", Longitude 108° 0-1' 39". Altitude 6,350 feet.
1852....
40.31
44.54
49.02
57.12
68.97
73.53
67.70
61.48
52.11
38.11
40.63
50.23
70.07
50.57
1853....
40.59
40.64
47.87
57.18
61.75
71.25
76.76
72.08
64.68
55.59
49.12
45.02
55.61
73.36
56.40
42.08
36.86
T. 1854.
41.81
40.57
50.73
60.42
67.06
^.37
78.27
73.92
69.95
60.13
44.30
41.05
59.40
74.85
58.13
41.14
58.38
T. 1855.
39.44
47.65
54.86
65.01
71.81
63.89
Mean...
40.59
40.47
46.21
53.08
59.43
70.11
75.14
69.89
63.08
53.75
43.61
42.82
52.90
71.71
53.48
41.29
54.84
The obserYations in continuation of this record for 1854 and 1855 were at Fort Thorn, laiiuide 32° 3* , bngitude 107° 10 ; altitude 4,500 feet. They
arc not included in the mean.
S. 9G 70
554
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT CONRAD, NEW JIEXICO.
Latitude 33° 34', Longitude 107° 09'. Altitude 4,576 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Not.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1891....
60. SB
41.26
36.65
1852....
32.27
45.11
53.31
58.05
66.65
73.06
78.36
78.15
86.62
56.45
42.87
40.18
59.67
76.52
61.98
39.52
59.42
1853....
38.68
39.78
50.53
63.68
66.76
75.35
79.76
75.92
71.36
57.29
46.66
38.37
60.32
77.01
58-44
38.94
58.68
1854....
36.82
41.08
50.08
60.78
63.56
75 51
82.14
78.85
72.80
64.90
47.53
38.90
■ 58.14
78.83
61.74
38.93
59.41
1855....
40.54
46.04
55.19
63.67
Mean...
37.08
43.00
52.28
61.54
65.66
74.64
80.09
77.64
76.93
59.89
45.58
38.52
59.83
1
77.46
60.80
39.S3
S9.40
From April, 1854, llie obser\ atioiis were at Fort Craig, eiglil miles south of Fort Conrad.
ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO.
Latitude 35° 06', Longitude 106° 38'. Altitude 5,032 feet.
1849....
69.09
56.95
48.32
38.22
58.12
1850....
35.20
40.50
46.20
50.20
61.02
70.76
75.90
74.44
68.07
55.52
40.81
25.96
52.47
73.70
54.80
33.89
53.57
1831....
30.70
36.07
47.26
53.01
61.80
70.19
75.72
54.02
1852....
42.92
38.43
1853....
41.97
40.25
46.42
59.24
65.10
73.43
78.58
70.86
58.80
47.88
41.09
56.92
59.18
41.00
1854....
36.46
40.70
49.35
59.02
62.47
73.83
78.87
76.39
69.42
62.64
40.66
36.48
56.95
76.36
57.57
47.88
59.69
1853....
34.57
40.61
50.43
59.69
67.30
59.15
Mean...
35.78
39.63
47.94
56.23
63.54
72.05
77.27
75.41
69.38
58.48
44.12
36.04
53.90
74.91
57.33
37.15
56.32
CEBOLLETA AND LAGUNA, NEW MEXICO.
Latitude 35° 03', Longitude 107° 14'. Altitude 6,000' feet.
1849...
33.43
1850....
34.80
40.08
45.25
49.82
59.05
68.85
76.33
76.90
70.31
59.06
41.03
25.54
51.37
74.03
56.80
33.47
53.92
1851....
31.00
31.77
43 76
52.90
64.25
76.19
78.56
74.41
66.60
57.43
46.38
40.10
53.64
76.38
54.83
34.29
54.78
1852....
38.91
46.24
43.70
Mean...
34.90
39.36
44.50
51.36
61.65
72.52
77.44
75.65
68.45
58.24
33.69
52.50
75.20
56.80
35.98
55.12
The position here given is that ofLaguna, Cebolleta is twenty miles northward, and a little more elevated. The record was at this last place until October, 1851.
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO.
Latitude 35° 41', Longitude 106° 02'. Altitude &,8iG feet.
1849....
32.87
35.14
43.18
52.96
54.70
71.33
70.22
64.37
48.90
39.59
33.46
50.28
50.95
33.82
1850....
30.25
31.91
40.94
50.72
76.20
75.25
55.75
23.25
1851....
34.01
34.15
49.40
59.02
69.43
72.90
1852....
59.56
47.87
34.39
29.62
47.27
1853....
31.16
28.00
37.86
53.92
60.34
66.40
69.37
66.71
62.74
48.27
40.30
31.39
50.71
67.49
50.44
30.18
49.70
1854....
28.51
34.07
41.46
49.80
54.18
68.18
71.80
67.73
61.04
55.56
40.00
33.32
48.46
69.24
52.20
31.97
50.47
1855....
31.88
36.26
40.09
50.89
Mean...
31.45
33.25
40.71
51.28
57.06.
68.84
79.57
69.98
61.93
51.27
38.57
30.21
49.68
70.46
50.59
31.64
50.59
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
555
LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
Latitude 35° 35', Longitude 105° 16'. Altitude 6,418 /ee<.
FORT UNION, NEW MEXICO.
Latitude 35° 54', Longitude 104° 57'. Altitude 6,670 feet.
Jan. Feb.
1
March. April.
May. June. July.
Aug.
Sept. Oct. Not.
Dec.
! 1
Spring. Summer Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1850....
1851....
1851....
1852....
1853....
1834....
1855....
38.15 34.30
28.57 28.10
29.69 1 35.94
33.80 1 31.11
32.:H i 36.02
35.93 34.95
41.28 46.20
33.19 47.93
40.88 50.34
39.78 52.21
40.91 48.01
39.84 50.73
51.77 64.18
61.06 71.46
57.05 ; 60.79
56 69 64.52
54.18 68.18
57.34
67.93
74.90
67.46
64.84
71.80
73.01
64.49
64.60
64.29
67.73
66.47
SI. 70
56.44
58.38
61.04
48.88
46.62
47.91
46.37
55.56
32.98
35.91
34.27
42.56
40.00
21 73
31.71
33.05
34.12
33.32
46.42
47.39
!
49.42
49.56
48.48
49.30
68.37
.
64.28
64.55
69.24
49.44
46.74
46.21
49.10
52.20
31.39
33.56
33.01
31.97
48.90
48.37
49.06
50.47
Mean...
33.08 ! 33.40
1
39.31 49.24
56.35 65.83
69.39
66.83
58.80
49.07 37.14 31.19
48.30
67.35
48.34
32.56
49.14
The position and exposure of these posts is such as to permit combination of the records in one mean result. The change to Fvrt Union was made in August, 1851 .
FORT MASSACHUSETTS, NEW MEXICO.
Latitude 37° 32', Longitude 105° 23'. Altitude 8,365 /ee^.
1852....
1853....
1854 ...
1855....
20.30
19.09
18.84
25.04
31.28
45.23
44.41
47.73
49.41
51.19
38.91
57.50
63.89
64.07
61.58
62.84
48.67 1 40.12
53.67
53.74 45.94
24.39
29.77
19.15
21.43
41.41
61.13
61.47
37.73
42.82
Mean. . .
19.69
22.24
31.28
44.83
49.44
58.20
63.48
62.21
51.62 43.03
27.08
20 29
41.84
61.29
40.58 20.74 41.11
FORT DEFIANCE, NEW MEXICO.
Latitude 35° 44', Longitude 109° 15'. Altitude 1,200? feet.
1851....
27.72
1852...
52.72
64.75
68.16
66.96
50.07
45.63
32.45
28.70
66.63
42.72
1853...
29.47
28.06
37.57
48.15
51.63
64.86
70.52
69.00
61 39
44.21
36.43
28.65
45 78
68.13
47.34
88.73
47.50
1854...
24.33
30 63
37.04
46.54
51.08
63.40
70.95
64.94
57.11
48.89
38.09
33.03
44.89
66.10
48.03
29.01
47.01
1855...
24.72
33.62
40.28
43.06
49.16
44.83
Mean. .
26.18
30.78
38.30
46.58
50.99
64.00
69.88
66.96
56.19
46.24
35.66
29.27
45.29
67.61
46.03
28.74
46.92
FORT TCMA, CALIFORNIA."
Latitude 32° 32' 3", Longitude 114° 36' 9". Altitude 355 feet.
1850....
i
1
51 70
1831....
' 54.40
53.15
62.64
72.93
1853....
87.00 '
88.65
88.10
83.55 !
72.90
61.46
55.47
87.93
72.64
1853....
59.32
58.60
67.61
73.23
77.66
89.49
94.12
92.16
89.33 '
79.44
65.74
57.10
72.83
91.92
78.17
58.34
75.31
1854....
54.17
39.18
64 50
74.71
74.12
83.40
94.05
90.63
85.48
77.25
66. U4
59.17
71.11
90.02
76.26
57.61
73.75
1835...
57.92
61.20
69.73
72.96
78.41
73.70
'
Mean..
\ 56.45
58.03
66.12
73.46
76.73
87.29
93.27
90.29
86.13
76.33
64.41
55.93
1
/2.10
89.95
75.69
56.80
73.62
* See letter of Assistant Surgeon Horace R. Wirtz, p. 437.
556
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA.
Latitude 32° 42', Longitude 11Y° 14'. Altitude 150 /ee<.
Jan.
Feb.
Marcli.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1849....
1
74.27
75.33
69.93
64.15
56.40
51.04
63.49
1850....
51.25
52.42
54.87
59.41
61.86
64.00
67.39
74.49
71.44
66.38
56.52
48.69
58.71
68.63
64.75
50.79
60.79
1851....
51.38 ,
50.30
55.19
56.38
52.67
1852....
53.07
55.76
55.07
57.74
61.39
67.09
73.25
72.50
73.. 'iT
65.13
57.19
51.71
58.03
70.95
65.30
53.31
61.95
1853....
53.78
52.92
57.83
63.66
63. ''.4
68.43
72.85
72.88
70.74
68.94
58.39
53.52
61.31
71.39
66.02
53.41
63.03
1854....
51.90
52.50
54.62
62.60
60.69
65.04
73.14
73.23
67.64
63.99
56.65
52.60
59.30
70.47
62.43
62.33
61.13
1853....
50.11
55.72
58.42
63.72
66.06
72.40
62.73
Mean. . .
51.90
53.27
56.00
61.23
62.67
67.39
72.72
73.68
70.87
65.50
56.93
51.70
59.97
71.26
64.43
52.29
62.00
POSTS DEL CHINO AND JURUPA, CALIFORNIA.
Latitude 34° 00', Longitude 117° 25'. Altitude 1,000 ? feet.
1851....
1852....
1652....
1853....
1854....
55.43
56.29
50.32
56. S3
54.70
53.08
56.57
59.29
54.49
60.75
64.42
63.75
63.56
68.76
71.83
71.89
73.19
76.22
73.68
71.57
74.51
70.06
74.07
68.58
64.81
69.00
60.39
56.03
57.00
53.61
51.12
53.63
60.36
62.42
71.17
74.19
66.34
66.69
54.87
64.54
Mean...
54.01
54.87
56.78
62.58
63.66
70.29
73.77
73.25
72.06 67.46
57.81
52.78
61.01
72.44
65.78
53.89
63.28
Tlie longitude is that of Jwrupo, the other position being twenty miles westward in the same valley. The change of po^^ition was made in September, 1852.
These posts are designated Raneko del China and Rancho iJe JurupOj in the registers.
MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA.
Latitude 36° 36', Longitude 121° 52'. Altitude 140 feet.
FORT MILLER, CALIFORNIA,
Latitude 37° 00', Longitude 119° 40'. Altitude 402 feet.
1847....
55.39
57.90
58.64
59.26
61.16
57.91
53.40
i
50.60
58.60
56.82
1848....
51.:i8
46.62
50.15
52.82
55.35
58.05
54.40
60.08
52.74
57.51
1849....
61 77
56.69
61.70
58.03
57.22
58.91
55.20
50.87
58.81
57.11
1850....
49.25
50.15
50.67
54.59
55.84
56.72
57.58
57.70
59.56
57.01
53.49
49.09
53.70
57.3.T
56.69
49.39
54.78
1851....
57.06
62.84
59.14
59.96
55.56
53 16
58.29
1852....
56.11
54.63
53.53
53.87
55.56
59.90
61.55
54.32
Mean...
53.25
50.47
51.45
53.76
56.76
57.85
58.49
59.58
59.27
58.45
54.16
50.93
53.99
58.64
57.29
51.22
55.39
1851.. .
82.71
75.41
69.87
55.26
48.00
68.84
1853...
48.37
55.74
55.37
63.45
72-33
88.55
83.82
81.45
66.33
53.51
48.54
63.72
66.76
50.85
1853....
49.75
53.09
58.61
64 23
70. J6
84.57
89 56
82.56
75.00
68.77
55.72
46.41
64.33
85.56
66.50
49.75
66.54
1854....
43.60
49.57
52.98
62.54
66.80
76.17
90.92
74.48
65.12
58.41
49.10
60.77
66.00
47.72
1855....
46.54
53.66
59.75
61.22
65.96
83.37
Mean. . .
47.04
53.01
56,68
62.86
68.81
83.16
90.24
83.03
76.09
67.52
55.48
48.01
62.78
85.48
66.36
49.35
66:00
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
557
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA.
Latitude 37° 48', Longitude 122° 26'. Altitude 150 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
1
Summer Autumn
i
Winter.
Year.
1847....
57.55
50.23
50.79
1848....
49.33
50.49
1850....
49.79
54.45
55.21
57.20
53.15
1852....
59.86
58.10
58.50
55.46
54.62
50.09
56.12
1853....
51.00
49.91
53.06
54.93
56.38
57.60
56.58
56.90
58.96
59.66
55.94
51.28
54.79
57.03
58.19
50.73
55.18
1854....
47.93
51.72
52.00
56.11
53.56
55.30
57.25
56.65
57.31
58.98
56.45
52.03
53.89
56.40
57.58
50.76
54.66
1855....
50.14
54.99
56.61
55.98
56.01
57.35
56.20
Mean...
49.60
51.78
52.87
55.37
55.29
56.86
57.90
57.22
58.26
57.91
54.31
51.20
54.51
57.33
56.83
50.86
54.88
BENICIA BARRACKS, CALIFORNIA.
Latitude 38° 03', Longitude 122° 08'. Altitude QAfeet.
1849....
1850....
1851....
1852....
1853....
1834....
1855....
47.37
49.54
48.20
48.63
42.59
45.78
49.16
50.08
52.43
49.85
58.85
52.17
51.20
55.42
52.16
52.90
50.27
56.38
60.12
56.89
56.13
57.00
56.91
61.83
58.65
60.62
56.40
58.29
69.77
65.16
65.71
68.68
62.45
70.66
67.50
65.68
70.09
65.14
68.37
66.74
70.07
67.83
63.98
64.42
65.00
64.08
67.98
64.37
61.68
64.30
65.86
60.58
64.50
58.91
46.15
54.44
56.93
55.86
56.29
55.90
47.95
46.45
49.03
49.04
46.57
48.67
59.12
55.90
56.55
54.56
57.19
68.00
66.97
67.87
65.93
65.08
61.25
62.29
61.47
61.72
58.8:j
47.66
49.55
49.89
48.35
46.70
59.48
58.78
58.14
56.29
Mean...
47.02
52.09
53.05
57.41
59.16
67.07
67.36
66.61
64.62 62.83
54.26
47.95
56.54
67.01
60.57
49.02
58.29
SACRAMENTO, AND CAMP FAR WEST, CALIFORNIA.
Latitude 38° 33', Longitude 121° 20'. Altitude 50 feet*
1849....
72.25
69.60
64.42
63.96
51.52
45.58
60.00
1850....
44.05
45.88
49.20
57.55
71.88
66.00
50.25
43.09
59.54
44.34
1851....
45.34
48.03
52.62
60.84
62.13
71.66
75.53
76.29
69.34
64.70
54.33
46.61
58.53
74.49
62.76
46.66
60.61
1852....
46.61
45.33
51.44
52.06
Mean. . .
48.45
51.29
59.20
67.00
71.66
73.89
73.00
66.88
64.89
52.04
45.09
59.16
72.83
61.27
46.29
59.89
* Camp Far West is in lat. 39° 07', long. 121° 18', and 150 or 200 feet above tlie sea. The observations were taken at this post after October, 1850.
FORT READING, CALIFORNIA.
Latitude 40° 30', Longitude 122° 05'. Altitude Qli/eet.
1852....
58.66
79.00
80.37
78.75
72.33
59.76
51.80
43.42
79.37
61.30
1853....
48.04
49 12
52.37
58.77
65.96
78.51
84.76
78.76
70.70
65.05
53.12
46.23
59.03
80.68
62.96
47.80
62.62
1854....
40.00
47.26
53.61
60 36
66.92
72.47
83.75
79.76
72.42
62.23
53.80
44.80
60.30
78.66
62.ffi!
44.02
61.45
1855....
44.64
51.56
57.31
59.92
64.44
81.65
60.56
Mean...
44.23
49.31
54.43
59.45
65.77
77.91
82.96
79.09
71.78
62.35
52.91
44.82
59.88
80.00
62.35
46.12
62.09
558
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
FORT HUMBOLDT, CALIFORNIA.
Latitude 40° 46', Longitude 124° 09'. Altitude 50 feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
1854....
40.83
43.54
47.37
54.06
53.94
1855....
45.50
49.97
52.59
56.56
Ft.Ross*
47.20
48.00
49.90
51.30
55.30
June. 1 July.
58.04 I 56.71
59.19
56.90 57.90
57.00
S8.40
Sept.
57.02
Oct.
53.00
48.62
Dec.
45.69
48.90
Spring.
Summer
51.79
57.55
Autumn Winter.
52.88
53.10
Year.
43.35 51.39
48.00
52.80
* A mean of four years of observation by Kussian authorities. Fort Ross is in latitude 38* 35^, and on the coast between Humboldt Bay and San Francisco.
FORT JOXES, CALIFORNLV.
Latitude 41° 36', Longitude 122° 52'. Altitude 2,510/eet.
1853....
35.07
37.96
42.01
47.14
55.87
64.36
79.04
53.67
42.74
33.42
48.34
35.48
1854....
31.36
35.02
41.16
51.02
53.55
58.76
71.07
68.66
62.72
50.00
40. «9
31.58
48.58
66.16
51.20
32.65
49.65
1855....
27.68
39.41
46.17
49.70
54.65
50.17
Mean. . .
31.37
37.46
43.11
49.29
54.69
61.56
71.56
68.66
62.72
51.84
41.81
K.50
49.03
67.26
52.12
33.78
51.40
FORT ORFORD, OREGON.
Latitude 42° 44', Longitude 124° 29'. Altitude 50 feet.
1852....
60.47
61.33
62.69
59.18
54.70
50.59
44.15
61.49
54.82
1853....
48.72
46.47
47.92
51.55
57.06
52.18
1854....
58.14
59.50
58.65
55.07
53.25
48.19
55.66
1855....
48.04
49.30
51.23
50.63
52.54
57 58
51.47
Mean...
48.38
47.88
49.57
51.09
54.80
59.03
59.73
61.09
58.91
54.88
51.87
46.17
51.82
59.95
55.22
47.48
53.KS
FORT VANCOUVER, (COLUMBIA BARRACKS,) WASHINGTON TERRITORY.
Latitude 45° 40', Longitude 122° 30'. Altitude 50 feet.
1849...
1850...
1851...
1852...
1853..
1854..,
1855...
Mean..
38.14
40.99
42.01
42 90
42.74
42.19
37.81
42.13
38.05
42.12
43.71
40.56
41.66
37.29
45.29
40.66
46.58
45.00 !
50.04
56.61 60.19 61. K 67.40 66.65 61.62 1 53.83
48.08
54.16
52.43
51.46
44.14
59.81
67.11
60.00
63.09
70.83
57.18
56.85
67.90
57.57
64.97
S8.9S
62.67
68.71
64.04
66 00
j 53.90
60.28 53.51
60.54 I 51.96
45.08
45.37
52.40
34.60
35.78
36.89
33.20
41.78
36.81
60.81 I 53.30 I 46.51 36.51
51.36
49.52
53.58
51.54
53.02
51.88
66.00
63.58
52.85
53.05
55.00
65.65
53.54
38.30 51.91
40.60
39.37
40.57 53.30
39.54
52.65
FORT DALLES, OREGON.
Latitude 45° 36', Longitude 120° 55'. Altitude 350/eef.
1850 .
1851..
1852..
1853..
1854..
1855..
Mean.
37.95 ' 41.39
K.27
21.98
40.16
37.14
38.94
42.57
46.69
13 76
53.41
62.14
66.58
74. iS
70.21
46.00
53.51
58.94
63.51
71.51
71. M
49.33
52.02
57.66
71. IS
57.43 52.64 37.93 32.55
63.71
64.00
33.09 I 40.01 I 46.45 I 52.98 59.58 67.09
73.22 70.77
53.57 41 25
55.35 41.80
52 88
44.34
53.61 41.33
24.95
40.07 I 53.10
37.07 I 52.89
l! 53.00
33.66
70.57
68.79
70.36
49.33
53.62 36.49
53.74 32.66
52.22 35.59
53.44
52.00
52.79
CONSOLIDATED TABLES AND SUMMARIES.
559
FORT STEILACOOM, WASHINGTON TERRITORY.
Latitude 47° 10', Longitude 122° 25'. Altitude 300 ? feet.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
AprU.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer Autumn.
Winter.
Year.
1849....
46.81
36.29
1850....
35.87
39.12
40.51
47.33
55.60
61.11
64.25
63.40
56.52
51.87
41.31
37 15
47.81
62.93
49.86
37.38
49.49
1851....
40.60
40.79
43.17
51.49
54.38
61.26
62.93
66.8a
57.01
52.90
46.27
41.15
49.68
63.67
52.06
40.78
51.55
1853....
43.26
42.60
40.18
46.49
57.10
63 00
63.51
63.88
57.06
51.69
43.75
33.28
47.92
63.46
50.83
39.71
50.48
1853....
39.73
39.78
41. »
48.74
57.62
60.47
66.73
62.11
58.56
53 58
45.10
44.62
49.43
63.10
52.41
41.38
51.58
1854....
30.61
39.64
43.87
50.83
55.57
58.96
63.71
62.80
59.61
51.73
46.67
43.06
50.09
61.82
53.67
37.77
50.59
1855....
41.95
43.15
47.75
48.39
54.79
59.11
50.31
Mean...
38.67
40.S8
42.90
48.88
55.84
60.65
64.23
63.80
57.75
52.35
44.97
39.26
49.21
62.89
51.69
39.50
50.82
ASTORLi, OREGON.
Latitude 46° 11', Longitude 123° 48'. Altitude 50/eet.
1850...
1
62.22
59.38
55.45
46.44
40.66
......
53.76
J8ol...
1 43.00
43.62
45.73 [
53.76
55.00
59.53
61.55
63.76
58.13
i
51.16
61.58
42.43
52.23
CANTONMENT LORING, (FORT HALL,) OREGON.
Latitude 43° 04', Longitude 112° 27'. Altitude 4,800 feet.
1849....
I
!
63.39
59.62
47.97
34.67
93.50
47.42
1850....
24.31
24.06
25.23
42.71
33.62
GREAT SALT LAKE, UTAH.
Latitude 40° 46', Longitude 112° 06'. Altitude 4,351 /eef.
1850....
1853....
1854....
1855....
26.40
24.20
30.75
32.20
35.46
37.38
35.58
40.50
43.17
48.00
52.40
65 a5
71.29
80.55
41.73
36.57
31.65
49.61
1
35.44
Mean...
27.12
35.01
39.75
50.20
65.25
71.29
80.55
41.73
34.11
51.73
75.92
32.08 53.34
To obtain a nearer approximation to the temperature of this district the obser\'ations of Captain Stansbury, in 1850, and those of Liautenant Beckwilh,
from December, 1853, to April, 1854, are incorporated.
SERIES OE MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
The entire amount of water falling in rain and snow is in all cases intended to be included in
the summaries given in the original record, and of which the results for separate years are here
consolidated to determine the mean for a series of years. In some cases the amount falling in snow
is not fully given as water, and some such omissions have been supplied by taking one-tenth of the
reported depth of snow as its equivalent in water.
HAKCOCK BARRACKS, MAINE.
1836...
1837...
1836...
1839...
1840...
1841...
1842...
1843...
1844...
1845...
Mean 1
9ly'rsf
Feb. March.
9.00
1.85
2.55
1.34
5.99
2.82
2.02
2.80
4.37
2.86
4.40
0.62
0.94
1.35
0.81
3.41
3.15
0.79
1.73
1.91
1.82
0.12
1.%
2.67
2.13
1.68
2.79
1.66
1.70
1.84
April.
2.99
1.40
4.24
5.32
3.31
1.19
3.92
1.57
1.48
2.83
May.
2.21
3.87
3.35
1.52
4.74
2.64
2.80
2.87
2.51
2.95
0.46
2.95
6.69
5.17
5.93
5.80
3.94
2.37
2.73
2.10
3.82
July.
3.89
4.80
2.81
7.20
3.09
1.98
9.40
2.70
3.55
8.86
4.83
Aug.
3.28
3.90
3.54
4.50
2.97
0.12
1.56
8.93
1.80
2 15
2.27
Sept.
2.33
3.54
3.78
1.74
3.09
4.52
2.74
1.10
1.85
2.94
3.01
2.40
5.42
0.53
5.58
1.84
4.00
7.84
4.62
1.74
2.87
6.72
3.89
4.11
2.53
2.47
2.14
3.13
3.92 I 3.29
4.79
1.80.
1.55
2.70
3.62
3.20
1.75
1.58
3.43
2.71
Spring.
Summer
7.02
5.40
9.55
9.51
10.18
5.51
9.51
6.10
5.69
7.6:
7.63
11.65
13.04
17.40
11.99
7.90
14 90
13.99
8.08
13.11
11.92
7.07
8.51
15.92
6.16
14.78
8.89
9.61
11.08
9.60
8.20
4.02
5.35
6.31
10.00
7.98
6.75
7.02
Year.
35.68
38.37
38.77
41.91
36.97
37.60
41 33
30.80
7.48 I 36.97
FORT KENT, MAINE.
1844....
1845....
3.75
2.60
1.36
3.36
5.46
11.65
9.64
9.71
36.46
FORT SULLIVAN, MAINE.
1841....
5.15
0.79
2.55
6.54
1.51
2.94
5.10
1.15
2.48
1.73
2.99
5.18
10.60
■9.19
7.20
11.12
38.11
1842....
3.54
3.61
2.75
1.60
2.15
2.00
1.75
6.15
2.85
5.45
4.00
4.80
6.50
9.90
12.30
11.95
40.65
1843....
2.15
2.80
3.38
3.05
2.35
1.55
3.83
3.75
0.95
3.55
3.40
4.70
8.78
9.13
7.90
9.65
38.46
1844....
1.95
1.65
2.75
0.70
3.65
0.82
5.34
4.48
2.35
2.54
4.25
7.06
7.10
10.64
9.14
10.66
37.54
1845....
3.12
2.62
2.95
2.53
5.17
2.00
6.51
3.85
....
....
9.95
12.36
.. . .
1849. ..
....
....
....
....
5.24
1.86
2.25
2.47?
9.65
1850....
3.83
2.32
2.80
1.50
5.10
6.10
7.10
2.58
4.80
3.24
3.00
4.80
9.40
15.78
11.04
10.95
47.17
1851....
2.81
4.10
4.60
3.30
2.80
1.40
3.35
0.90
3.30
4.50
3.00
2.60
10.70
5.65
10.80
8.91
36.06
1852....
4.30
3.60
2.90
4.10
0.30
2.20
4.00
4.80
3.40
3.50
4.20
2.50 1
7.30
11.00
11.10
10.40
39.80
1853....
1.70
7.20
4.50
1 90
3.30
0.35
1.70
4.90
....
....
....
....
9.70
6.95
Mean
SJy'ra '
3.17
3.18
3.16
2.80
2.92
2.15
4.28
3.62
3.17
3.29
3.39
4.26
8,88
10.05
9.85
10.61
39.39
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
561
FORT PREBLE, MAINE.
1
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
' July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn.
Winter.
Tear.
1840....
....
...
....
.• . .
4.52
2.20
1S41....
4.23
0.79
1.89
5 05
2.87
1.83
0.74
4.43
4.08
1.43
8.67
6.38
9.81
6.55
9.18
11.45
37.00
1S43....
1.01
3.40
1.86
l.SO
2.40
4.26
2.95
8.59
4.53
0.98
3.53
5.83
6.06
10. SO
9.09
8.69
36.64
1S48....
1.S7
5.20
4.42
4.05
4.79
1.81
6.30
0.89
5.21
8.64
1.04
13.67
12.40
9.24
ISH....
8.43
0.75
8.59
0.34
3.74
8.34
1.76
2.27
1.70
4.66
2.92
4.10
7.67
T.87
9.34
8.28
82.66
1345....
8.75
2.07
2.37
1.44
8.14
1.66
5. 86
2.93
2.57
6.95
10.85
1S49....
....
2.70
4.60
5.80
8.95
12.60
1S50....
4.85
8.20
2.70
4.60
15.50
4.80
2.90
8.85
6.95
8.45
2.80
4.50
22.80
11. C5
12.20
12.55
89.00
1S51....
3.65
5.S0
2.45
7.35
8.90
8.87
3.65
2.22
4.41
8.43
6.58
2.89
18.70
9.74
19.42
12.24
46.10
1SS2....
4.79
2.56
3.59
8.64
2.82
5.02
8.19
8.81
3.42
5.80
6.38
6.10
14.95
16.52
15.10
13.45
60.02
1S53....
1.S7
8.55
2.61
3.76
7.03
1.47
2.68
8 58
18.45
7.73
IVIean I
Si y'rs f
3.87
8.89
2.92
4.14
5.05
8.89
2.78
4.11
3.31
4.25
4.37
4.17
12.11
10.28
11.93
10.98
45.25
FORT CONSTITUTION, NEW HAMPSHIRE.
1886....
....
3.27
1.29
2.97
1.78
2.05
0.61
3.91
8.57
4.26
6.S0
8. 09
1337....
1.91
1.53
2.29
4.37
5.21
4.09
1.05
1.65
0.85
1.48
2.01
1.72
11.87
6.79
4.84
5.16
23.16
1S38 ...
2.62
0.97
1.14
2.21
8.88
8.81
2.00
3.79
3.93
4.24
8.85
0.65
6.73
9.10
11.57
4.44
81.84
1839....
0.97
2.06
0.80
8.28
3.85
2.71
2.70
2.55
1.58
0.S3
2.05
3.65
7.93
7.96
4.46
6. 68
20.93
1840....
0.90
1.87
3.87
4.05
1.93
2.02
LSI
2.99
1.26
....
9.85
5.82
1342....
1.84
2.68
8.08
1.59
3.13
4.43
3.13
4.23
2.61
0.66
2.41
4.45
7.80
U.S4
5.63
8.47
83.79
1S43. ..
1.28
8.57
1.40
2.77
0.60
6.53
1.70
7.16
0.43
8.83
2.67
2.72 1
4.77
15.83
6.48
7.67
34.15
1844....
2.83
1.43
8.60
0.85
2.75
1.45
1.36
2.23
2.67
4.54
2.99
6.65
6.70
5.04
9. CO
9.81
30.65
1845....
3.01
2. 83
8.20
1.15
8.15
1.89
7.83
2.72
....
T.50
11.94
1849....
....
1.35
4.07
1.69
6.01
8.50
8.86
11.40
1S50....
6.14
2.72
8.45
4.70
8.81
2.73
2.04
6.50
6.68
2.76
2.4S
2.22
16.46
11.27
11.92
11.08
50.73
1S51....
2.13
5.12
0.55
7.13
2.55
8.67
4.30
1.92
3.23
5.47
6.10
8.18
10.23
9.89
14.80
10.48
45.35
1852....
3.51
2.65
2.26
6.60
1.42
2.79
2.63
6.20
2.71
2.92
4.35
4.65
10.28
11.52
9. OS
10.71
42.49
1353....
2.35
4.82
0.29
8.23
6.96
0.52
0.92
5. IS
8.21
10.48
6.62
Moan I
13 y'rs t
2.42
2.64
2.16
8.44
3.43
8.01
2.40
8.80
2.43
8.29
3.23
8.82
9.03
9.21
8.95
8.38
85.67
WATERTOWN ARSENAL, MASSACHUSETTS.
1836....
....
....
4.26
2.45
1.11
0.99
2.87
4.45
4.69
7.82
8.31
1837....
2.46
2.95
2.56
3.43
5.92
4.34
1.84
2.18
0.51
1.71
1.74
2.47
11.91
8.81
8.96
7.68
82.06
1888....
8.16
2.18
2.18
2.75
3.85
4.90
2.07
4.94
7.74
4.90
4.80
1 02
8. 78
11.91
16.94
6.86
43.99
1SS9....
1.08
2.39
1.24
6. 86
4.73
2.74
4.50
4.63
1.96
8.26
2.07
8.4S
12.83
11.87
6.29
11.90
42.39
1340....
2.91
2.76
3 76
5.18
2.48
2.82
2.84
6.10
2.62
4.19
8.96
4.46
11.42
10.76
15.77
10.13
43.03
1341....
5.06
1.46
8.17
....
2.01
6.C5
4.29
3.21
8.95
4.19
11.45
10.71
1343....
1.96
6.74
6.41
3.60
1.86
4.50
2. 63
8.00
1.12
5.30
8.89
8.45
10.87
15.08
10.81
12.15
43.41
1344....
3.51
1.64
4.73
0.88
3.67
1.69
2.79
3.80
4.72
5.80
8.05
....
8.83
7.78
13 63
Mean }
7 y'rs. J
2.87
2.85
8.80
8.70
3.75
8.61
2.64
4.41
8 00
8.35
8. 93
4.11
10.75
10.66
10.83
9.83 I
42.0T
S. 96-
-71
562
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
FORT INUEFENDENt'E, MASSACHUSETTS.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Deo.
Spring.
1
Summer. Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1S61....
1.00
1.44
1.24
8.95
4.40
1.28
9.50
1S52....
8.50
1 82
1.20
4.00
1.20
2.71
1.92
5.35
1.60
1.42
2.94
8.00
6.40
9.98
5.96
7.82
80.22
1858....
2.16
8.48
1.10
2.77
0.81
2.55
4.04
4.70
8.90
2.74
4.93
2.71
10.24
11.29
11.16
8.85
41.04
1854....
2.50
8 36
2.S5
5.40
4.2S
2.00
4.44
0.50
8.34
1.47
6.57
8.23
12.28
6.94
10.88
9.(19
88.64
1855 ...
6.34
3.30
1.10
2.72
1.02
....
....
....
....
5.5a
Mean )
8.62
2.84
1 53
3 72
8.85
2.42
S.OO
3.00
2.52
2.39
4.86
2.55
8.00
8.42
9.27
9.01
85.30
Note. — The measurement of rain at I^rt Indtpcndntcc appears deficient for most of this period. The record of Cambridge Observatory gives 40.5 inches for
1552, and 5S.8 inches for 1850, the dilTercnces from tlicse measures being quite equally distributed ttirough the monthly results.
FORT ADAMS, RHODE ISLAND.
1841....
....
....
...
....
4.81
6.69
T.22
1842....
4.48
6.95
4.54
3.18
4.05
10.92
8.88
4.33
2.97
80
8.06
5.48
12. .37
19.18
7.43
15.80
54.79
1S4S....
4.22
6.43
6.68
7.56
3.09
2.05
2.88
9.12
1.90
10.02
6.84
7.10
16.98
14.05
18.82
17.81
07.eif
1814 ...
6.85
1.21
8.17
1.49
5.21
1.77
6.78
4.72
5.25
8.30
8.81
2.98
9.87
12.27
16.86
10.07
49.07
1845...
2.90
8.15
2.49
1.67
8.22
2.81
2.78
8.54
2.96
4.74
9.49
3.44
T.88
8.63
17.19
9.49
42.09
1840....
2.49
1.98
2.88
1.95
2.75
0.79
2.&4
8.70
1.18
....
....
....
7.58
7.83
1S48....
....
....
....
....
....
3.55
5.48
1849....
1.C6
3.27
6.25
2.10
4.20
2.80
1.07
S..S3
2.30
7.07
4.52
8.85
12.61
7.80
13.95
8.77
42.08
1650....
5.24
8.51
6.82
4.97
5.75
2.42
4.01
8.05
5.23
3.58
2.39
O.SS
17.54
10 08
11.20
15.88
54.15
1851....
3.12
5.CS
1.41
7. or,
•1.10
2.10
0.62
8.05
3.49
4.47
6. 84
8. .32
1.3.47
12.27
14.80
12.12
.'12. 70
1852....
4.43
5.41
6.90
8.67
8.92
1.70
2.10
6.90
2.55
2.60
6.63
6.53
18.49
10.70
11. T7
16.39
57.88
1858....
6.68
5.18
4.65
10.48
7.56
2.83
4.92
6.84
8.25
....
22.09
12.04
Mean I
10 y'rs J
4.10
4.17
4.38
5.00
4.51
2.87
8.74
4.88
3.12
5.15
5.39
5.20
18.89
11.44
13.66
18.47
52.46
Note.-
esq., gives
—The measurements ot Fort Adams, particularly for 1S48, appear somewhat in excess. A record at New Bedford, for forty years, by Samuel Rodman,
42 inches as the mean annual fall, and thai at Brown Universily for twenty years is very nearly the same measure.
FORT TRUMBULL, CONNECTICUT.
1848....
2.05
3.42
6.92
4.20
8.35
2.47
2.51
10.14
1.03
7.45
5.79
3.80
13.47
16.12
14.92
9.27
52.73
1844....
5.92
1.81
0.01
1.19
8.47
1 94
3.81
2.72
2.40
5.89
3.40
2.23
10.67
8.47
11.19
9.96
40.29
1845....
8.54
3.57
8.40
3.00
2.89
8.05
3.69
1.00
1.74
8.65
7.90
4.72
10.29
8.34
13.35
11.83
43.81
1840....
8.04
2.24
8.35
2.12
4.09
....
....
....
10.16
Mean I
8* y'rs r
8.64
8.76
4.07
2.08
3.60
2.49
3.34
4.82
1.94
5.50
5.73
3.58
10.90
10.65
18.16
30.98
45.69
FORT HAMILTON, NEW YORK.
1889....
1840....
1843....
1814....
1845....
1846....
1S47....
IMS
1.80
2.50
0.70
2.97
4.26
6.15
6.04
r 2.20
2.72
2.80
1.90
0.93
6.70
5.55
7.06
1.17
1.90
4.20
4.33
2.21
2.82
6.04
1.81
8.84
4.85
5.70
0.52
1.00
2.40
0.71
1.75
6.22
8.88
1..33
2.80
1.47
9.84
1.03
9.32
6.41
5,11
1.67
2.82
8.60
2.14
8.87
6.19
4.55
1.8S
4.87
1.95
7.09
4.82
l.SO
6.83
6.20
14.05
1.72
4. 48
4.84
3.80
0.91
4.74
1.73
3.75
4.. 30
2.28
0.20
10.60
1.05
2.35
4.10
8.78
1.76
1.53
4.25
2.95
1.70
2.05
2.95
8.90
5.20
1.82
8.70
3.21
2.05
8.45
2.63
7.18
2.50
11.40
14.54
15.86
11.89
13.22
11.22
17.00
9.55
6.81
7.65
8.91
10.18
6.95
4.68
10.13
0.99
18.41
15.06
18.67
10.68
18.83
7.38
15.99
20.05
19.27
12.91
7.98
6.42
8.S7
51.11
44.18
32.64
85.21
52.69
62.09
86.18
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
563
FORT HAMILTON, NEW YORK— Continued.
Jan
Ffb.
.M rch.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nor.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
AutumD.
Winter.
Year.
1S49....
0.44
2.12
5.11
0.62
8.75
0.82
2.76
3.01
2.84
4.50
1.45
2.43
1
1 9.8S
6.59
• 8.79
4.99
29.75
1S50...
4.69
1.74
5.55
1 44
6.74
2.11
8.63
6.16
4.20
1.83
1.98
5.77
18.73
11.95
8.01
12.20
45.89
1S51. ..
2..S9
4.44
8.SS
5.82
2.88
l.CS
3.29
2.64
1.81
2.99
4.39
2.66
, 12. C8
7.61
8.69
9.49
87.87
1S52....
1.91
2.27
4.U
6.06
S.20
2.80
2.64
4.46
1.99
2.25
4.14
8.80
' 13.87
9.90
8.33
8.01
39.66
1S58....
4.58
7.24
5.79
4.78
6.02
4.42
5.83
5.23
8.75
2.7.*
8 71
; 16
16.59
15.43
10.19
12.93
55.24
1854....
8.05
4.45
0.65
9. 53
6.C9
4.25
2.23
0.26
8.50
1.19
5.70
3.85
16.83
6.74
10.89
10.85
44.30
Mean. . .
2.9S
3.57
3.65
3.42
4.62
3.65
3.55
4.44
8.88
2.80
3.75
3.84
11.69
11.64
9.93
10.39
43.65
FORT COLUMBUS, NEW YORK.
18.36....
1.09
2.01
1.31
2.66
0.63
6.46
1.44
2.37
3.40
2.00
1.90
2.8J
4.60
10.27
7.80
5.40
27.57
IS-ST*...
2.70
3.70
8.20
7 50
9.50
8.50
5.90
C.30
2.10
2.11
2.90
6.10
25.20
20.70
T.ll
12.50
65 61
1833....
3.98
3.70
4.10
2.50
3.99
3.12
1.33
4.79
4 96
3.64
8.10
2.24
10.59
9.74
11.70
9.87
41.90
1S.39....
0.69
2.05
2.46
3.35
8.37
4.94
1.85
4.92
3.59
1.45
2.19
7.61
14.18
11.21
7.28
10.85
42.97
1S40....
1.34
1.84
2.92
2.03
2.39
2.40
1.80
4.25
1.84
4.59
2.90
1.00
7.34
8.45
9.33
4.68
29.80
an....
5.30
O.SO
2.35
3.93
3.95
4.65
4.90
2.50
2.90
4.40
8.70
2.70
10.23
12.05
11. CO
8.80
42.03
1342.. .
1.07
2.85
1.25
3.60
3.60
8.8a
3.30
2.81
2.10
4.30
1.80
3.50
8.45
8.91
8.20
7.42
32.98
184.3....
1.00
2.81
2.13
2.14
1.00
0.70
1.64
15.26
3.06
5.91
2.82
3.34
5.27
17.66
11.79
6.65
41.87
1S44....
2.66
1.03
4.50
0.65
3.41
2.87
6.00
2.73
4.50
4.08
1.78
2.82
8.46
11.10
10.81
6.51
86.38
1S45....
4. 87
8.22
3.33
1.22
1.75
3.70
1.75
8.21
2.62
2.S0
8.40
2.51
6.30
8.66
8.52
10.60
34.08
1846....
S.92
3.01
3.82
4.01
9.70
1.39
6.01
8.8S
0.48
1.34
8.86
2.99
17.53
11.28
10.18
9.92
48.91
1S47....
4.62
5.74
8.4S
1.53
2. IS
6.73
1.62
6.93
12.20
2.13
6.29
6.35
12.19
15.33
20.62
16.71
64.85
1348....
1.75
1.63
2.23
1.16
7.28
4.56
2.64
1.41
1.87
6.61
1.59
4.02
10.67
8 61
10.07
7.45
36.80
1849....
0.61
2.26
4.87
0.62
3.47
0.78
1.48
4.63
1.55
6.68
l.SS
4.01
8.96
6.84
9.06
6.S8
81.74
1550....
5.57
2.64
4.64
2.72
9.20
3.07
8.92
T.21
4.71
3.16
2.33
5.36
16.56
14.20
10.20
13.57
54.53
1351....
1.46
4.50
1.70
6.94
4.73
0.90
4.72
3.47
1.26
2.95
4.53
3.72
13.37
9.13
8.74
8.63
39.97
1S52....
2.92
8.03
4.43
4.74
2.24
2.11
3.25
6.20
2.29
2.06
6.07
4.45
11.41
11.56
10.42
10.45
43.84
1853 ...
4.14
4.98
2.03
3.32
5.80
4.80
4.40
5.50
5.49
3.90
6.80
1.04
11.15
14.70
16.19
10.16
52.20
1S54....
2.60
4.00
0.70
8.80
7.70
2 20
1.90
1.03
1.90
I. SO
3.95
8.60
17.20
5.13
7.65
15 20
45.18
Mean...
2.73
2.92
3.44
s.as
4.78
8.46
3.17
4.70
3.31
3.40
3.59
3.93
11.55
11.83
10.80
9.6S
42.23
* At Furl WimI, Bedlue's Island, from January, 18.37, to September, 1839.
WEST POINT, NEW YORK.
1336....
....
1.80
5.95
13.90
10.60
3.85
4.30
7.07
9.15
16.65
28.85
20.52
50.14
1837....
4.15
6.10
11.00
7.75
13.35
13.10
8.75
7.40
3.55
4.20
2.60
2.05 i
82.10
29.25
10.85
11.30
83.03?
13-33....
2.25
2.45
5.30
5.15
12.90
12.27
5.90
5.85
12.50
S.05
6.10
4.65 '.
23.35
24.02
26. C5
9.35
83.37?
1839....
0.75
3.95
1.40
9. 75
11.25
6.50
9.83
5.72
4.59
2 13
1.44
6.66
22.40
21.55
8.16
17.86
69.47?
1340....
2.50
2.50
3.41
4.59
3.85
2.S0
2.73
5.18
3.03
8.33
8.10
6.25
16.35
10.71
14.51
11.25
47 63
1841....
9.95
2 00
5.25
6.60
4.37
5.97
3.40
2.80
3.05
2.10
8.85
5.10
16.22
12.17
13.50
17.05
63.94?
1342....
3 00
2.60
0.75
4.95
4.S0
3.23
5.19
9.92
5.60
4.20
2.93
4.40
10.50
13.34
12.73
9 60
50.63
1313....
2.70
3.02
5.05
3.40
2.23
1.95
3.0O
11.83
8.62
6.95
4.60
2.70
10.73
16.23
15.17
3.43
50.60
1344....
5.25
3.10
4.20
0.50
5.1J
3.45
7.90
5. 28
3.53
4.93
1.05
4.12
9 SO
16.(»
9.47
12.47
48.87
1*45....
5.15
2.83
8.40
1.80
4.10
1.82
2 33
7.72
2.60
2.98
6.36
8 24
9.30
11.93
10.89
11.27
43.33
1S40....
8.42
2.78
8.99
3.04
6.62
2.30
6.14
2.93
0.17
2.46
10.02
2.S0
13.56
11.37
12.63
9.00
46.56
1347....
4.01
6.22
3.49
0.79
2.70
2.27
2.62
2.20
3.53
1.97
1.8^
3.5i1
6.93
6.99
7.35
13.78
85.05
564
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
WEST POINT, NEW YORK— Continued.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer.
Autumn.
Winter.
Year.
1S4S....
1.87
3. 98
2.71
2.90
7.15
7.87
4.42
0.49
3.67
4.43
6 76
5.04
12.70
12.28
14. SO
10.89
60.79
1849 ...
1.03
2.07
4.55
0.90
6.10
1.08
8.15
4.84
0.48
7.03
2.31
4.11
11.55
9.07
10.42
7.21
88.25
1850....
6.06
8.83
4.84
4.30
8.26
8.83
5.89
5.18
8.14
2.84
2.17
5.65
17.40
14.85
12.65
16.04
57.94
1S31....
0.82
5.09
2.56
724
4.34
1.68
4.44
2.63
1.22
4.02
4.81
2.45
14.14
8.55
9.55
8.86
40.60
is-ia....
1.80
S.SO
2.68
4.66
1.85
2.80
4.07
6.39
2.39
2.99
4.47
5.31
9.19
18.86
9.85
10.91
48.81
1S5S....
8.27
6.45
8.28
5.84
7.99
8.77
10.48
7.S7
8.95
8. 65
5.00
2.26
17.06
22.12
13.40
10.98
68.56
ISM....
3.52
5.04
2.81
10.68
5.03
0.18
1.63
4. 79
3.73
0.46
4.00
1.93
5.65
2.64
18.42
5.81
11.68
11.20
47.06
Mc.in 1
3.50
3.44
3.71
4.55
5.50
5.15
3.89
4.81
4.89
4.71
, 14.44
15.44
12.62
11.65
54.15
M'n l.nst
12 years
[S.24
8.90
3.62
8.82
5.13
2.77
4.89
4.77
8.11
8.87
8.76
3.65
12.6T
12.48
10.74
10.79
46.53
WATERVLIET ARSENAL, NEW YORK.
1636....
2.21
2.42
7.08
2.89
2.00
0.99
4.15
2.58
4.53
11.47
7.72
183-....
2.49
2.82
2.17
1.31
6.14
4.73
2.92
8.91
1.15
2.12
0.80
1.45
9.65
11.56
4.07
6.76
32.04
163S....
0.(3
1.02
1.25
0.63
4.09
4.37
2.67
5.95
2.96
2.66
3 32
0.55
«.67
12.99
8.84
2.40
30.80
1889....
2.20
0.65
1.80
8.03
2.91
4.60
3.61
1.08
3.67
1.22
2.81
2.10
7.84
9.24
7.70
4.95
29.73
1840....
0.27
0.20
2.79
4 60
1.95
8.45
2.64
2.96
4.72
4.24
2.95
1.61
9.84
8.95
11.91
2.08
32.23
1811....
8.69
2.20
2.50
4.84
1.75
3.r9
1.08
4.25
5.44
1.41
2. 89
3.16
! 6.69
8.42
9.74
9.04
85.79
1842....
0.95
3.28
3.47
4.93
1.87
4.98
5.08
4.86
7.69
4.18
2.86
....
1 9.77
14.37
14.23
1S43 ...
1.90
1.30
4.26
8.25
6.05
4.89
7.02
2.61
4.83
2.75
1.60
8.81
17.46
10.89
1845....
4.25
2.95
8.36
8.25
5.C2
2.09
3.81
1.19
8.12
2.04
3.41
2.56
11.68
6.59
8.57
9.75
86.61
1846....
2.86
2.20
2.85
0.86*
3.S9
2.96
2.60*
2.90
1.10
2.16
5.00
2.81
7.00
8.36
8.26
7.87
81.49
1817....
1.84
1.38
2.50
2.28
2.45
8.83
6 01
1.74
8.06
3.16
1.97
1.64
! 7.18
11.57
8.19
4.86
81.80
1848....
2.02
2.27
8.22
1.40
6.61
3.62
6.57
2.9S
2.25
3.44
2,23
4.32
1 11.23
11.37
7.92
8.61
89.18
1S49....
0.65
....
1.19?
1.01
5.53
5.52
0.67
5.84
1.61
2.93
7.78
7.62
1850....
1.80
0.40
0.64
2.92
4.70
1.91
5.27
3.84
4.23
8.37
1.69
2.75
8.46
10.52
9.29
4.96
83.28?
1851....
1.82
8.86
0.97
3.68
2.83
3.60
4.43
2.89
1.66
2.63
4.01
2.86
7.88
10.42
8.29
8.04
84.08
1852....
2.88
1.10
2.06
4.16
1.67
1.28
2.87
2.73
2.67
2.67
4.70
2.85
1 7.89
6.88
10.04
6.88
81.14
1S5S....
1.78
4.08
2.72
8.36
6.84
1.62
8.54
3.06
7.56
2.47
5.37
1.43
! 11.92
8.21
15.40
7.29
42.82
1S54....
8.50
2.77
2.78
3.9S
1.53
2.81
1.54
0.84
2.32
2.05
2.40
0.98
8.29
4.69
7.27
7.25
27.50
Mean ..
2.07
2.08
2.19
2.92
8.55
8.73
8.51
8.10
3.24
3.00
2.98
2.3-$
8.66
10.84
9.17
6.33
84.55
• This series is generally incomplete in measurement of water falling as snow. A series of twenty years' observation at Albany gives 40 incbes as the mean
annual fall of water.
PLATTSBURG BARRACKS, NEW YORK.
1840....
1.10
0.20
5.05
5.25
2.60
2.75
8.00
4.60
6.25
1.10
2.00
2.00
12.80
10.26
9.35
3.30
85.70
1841....
2.00
0.81
1.25
....
1.75
1.50
8.46
0.60
1.47
2.44
5.43
6.23
1842....
0.47
1.82
2.40
2.26
0.80
2.23
4.09
2.41
3.69
3.84
2.84
3.12
6.46
8.78
9.67
4,91
29.02
1843....
1.26
1.46
2.88
1.48
4.88
6.43
6.09
5.22
4.47
4.68
8.08
0.74
11.84
15.79
12.43
3,66
43.72
1S44....
0.84
0.64
2.44
2.61
5.40
4.41
4.78
6.40
3.33
4.68
2.40
1.53
10.45
15.65
10.28
2,90
89.28
1S45....
1S46....
2.84
1.13
2.67
0.74
2.C9
1.86
2.02
0,62
1.88
2.91
2.15
3.11
2.09
1.31
8,66
2.26
3.49
1.20
5.91
4.S9
6. .55
9,41
6.73
27.03
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
565
PLATTSBURG BARRACKS, NEW YORK— Continued.
Mean of eighteeo years* obserration at Burlington, Vermont, 33.9 inches. — Professor Thompson.
MADISON BARRACKS, NEW YORK.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
Joly.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Not.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer.
Antumo.
Winter.
Tear.
1S49....
0.95
8.60
0.70
4.20
2.80
1.20
7.20
1850...
1.10
0.98
0.28
8.78
T.18
2.53
4.12
1.83
4.56
7.64
8.10
7.25
11.19
8.03
15.80
9.33
43.90
ISol....
1S52....
2.19
0.90
1.99
1.83
2.03
2.02
1.61
8.42
8.61
5.35
8.09
8.22
3.86
4.61
3.30
1.S4
7.25
11.66
11.27
6.02
86.20
Mean...
1.88
1.20
2.18
2.55
8.63
8.51
8.22
8.80
8.72
3.67
2.66
2.87
8.86
10.03
10.05
4.95
83.39
1S40....
1.15
3.53
2.53
4.80
3.62
8.T8
8.16
2.35
10.56
7.53
ISil....
3.18
0.51
8.00
2.73
1.74
1.58
4.14
1.59
5.86
1.S8
8.85
8.11
7.47
7.31
10.79
6.80
82.87
1812....
0.94
1.93
3.24
8.16
1.76
4.43
3.81
8.38
4.21
4.11
4.33
1.96
8.16
11.62
12.70
4.83
87.31
1843....
2.85
1.85
2.57
2.15
1.44
4.70
2.79
1.85
2.66
6.91
2.44
2.06
6.16
9.84
12.01
6.26
83.77
1844....
2.74
0.85
1.91
1.79
3.31
8.74
3.78
3.80
0.41
8.52
1.62
1.70
7.07
11.82
5.55
5.29
29.28
1845....
3.50
2.92
2.55
2.04
4.16
1.85
6.45
0.57
3.18
2.64
2.24
1.27
8.75
7.87
8.06
7.69
32.87
1846...
2.61
2.24
2.23
1.96
3.49
1.93
7.78
1849....
1.89
2.07
0.91
4.06
6.51
5.21
4.99
4.85
7.04
16.71
1S5D....
3.16
8.55
2.13
a.87
6.15
1.64
7.57
8.12
4. To
12. .39
8.93
6.26
11.15
12.33
21.07
12.97
67.51?
1851....
2.39
4.52
4.38
3.95
5.03
2.78
7.67
3.53
3.85
6.09
5.85
4.25
13.86
13.93
15.29
11.16
58.79?
1852...
2.90
2.79
5.89
3.29
Mean ..
2.49
2.47
3.05
2.66
3.23
2.75
4.51
2.97
8.73
5.13
8.60
8.14
8.94
10.23
12.51
S.IO
89.73
The last years of this record appear over-measured, by comparison with other stations and with previous summaries here.
FORT ONTARIO, NEW YORK.
1844....
1.43
0.19
1.54
1.40
8.74
3.20
1.42
6.50
0.54
4.89
1.02
8.71
6.63
16.12
6.45
5.88
84.53
1345....
3.01
2.68
0.35
2.43
2.39
4.73
1.58
3.63
5.60
2.65
8.62
, 5.62
11.88
9.31
1846....
2.80
2.93
1.55*
1 29
1.82
1.33
1 4.66
1849....
1.16
1.15
2.62
1.65
8.00
1.66
0.69
1.61
2.26
6.30
2.77
2.09
, ^-^
3.96
11.88
5.40
27.96
1850....
1.63
1.08
0.87
3.39
8.04
2.03
6.09
1.25
2.40
5.59
4.31
2.90
6.80
7.87
12.30
5.66
82.63
1851 ...
2.61
2.31
3.97
1.91
1.31
2.55
2.87
1.32
1.74
2.43
4.97
4.41
7.19
6.44
9.19
9.33
32.15
1852....
2.76
2.14
8.66
0.63
0.36
4.06
1.18
0.53
8.31
4.80
4.47
4.09
5.20
5.77
12 53
8.99
32.54
1858....
1.17
4.12
0.89
8.04
2.01
0.72
i 5.94
1854....
0.32
1.09
1.69
Mean...
2.02
2.07
1.93
1.98
2.27
8.17
2.22
2.24
2.81
4.35
3.11
8.21
6.18
7.63
9.77
7.80
30.33
FORT NIAG.\R,A, NEW YORK.
2.50
3.90
4.10
5.61
2.27
2.74
1.80
0.58
1.52
1.75
1.17
1.94
1.90
1.15
1.20
4.20
2.81
0.84
2.07
1.08
2.40
2.39
2.74
2.57
2.03
7.25
5.67
2.59
1.16
1.62
6.32
4.23
2.28
1.14
3.50
1.49
2.26
2.81
5.05
4.72
0.26
3.06
0.77
8.70
2.24
1.47
1.42
1.20
4.82
1.54
0.94
1.21
3.40
2.75
1.36
1.63
0.81
10.70
7.94
5.10
6.53
4.86
17.07
13.57
9.15
11.39
S.SO
9.24
7.18
S.67
8.96
5.11
5.69
8.23
50.49
87.07
18.86?
20.61?
566
SKRIES OP MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
FORT NIAGARA, NEW YORK— Continued.
Jan.
Fib.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer.
Autumn.
Winter.
Year.
1849....
....
2. 63
7.21
5.00
4.14
3.65
2.91
12.79
1S50....
4.01
0.07
0.49
0.46
•O.TO
6.64
6.87
5.17
7.25
3.10
8.06
1.82
1.65
18.18
13.41
6.60
89.74
1851....
1.20
8.32
0.37
2.01
2.49
1.69
3.18
2.26
2.99
2.63
2.40
1.42
4.87
7.13
7.97
5.94
25.91
1852...
l.OD
i.n
4.46
2.87
2.56
2.91
1.98
2.60
6.00
8.30
2.62
6.97
9.69
7.49
10.93
8.63
87.04
1853....
1.11
1.64
2.S4
8.40
8.70
1.60
2.71
1.50
8.55
i.sr
2. IS
1.17
9.64
5.87
7.04
8.92
26.47
1854....
1.63
2.52
1.87
2.25
3.90
1.71
4.08
1.52
2.61
8.02
7. 20
6.41
Mean ..
2.25
1.89
2.12
2.20
2.55
8.23
3.49
3.04
8.95
2.37
2.86
2.27
6.87
9.81
8.68
81.77
* Twelve days.
BUFFALO BAilRACKS, NEW YORK.
1842...
....
....
2.10
2.00
7.60
2.50
6.20
2.40
16.20
1843....
8.52
1.70
8.28
8.61
1.65
2. 86
8.77
2.90
7.10
7.76
S.27
3.38
' 8.44
9.68
IS. 13
8.60
44.70
1844....
2.40
0.64
3.06
1.55
5.05
8.60
4.77
5.84
0.22
3.90
2.10
2.20
9.60
18.61
6.28
6.24
84.79
1845....
4.08
2.29
2.91
2.70
1.78
1.96
1.64
....
....
7.89
Mean ..
8.83
1.54
8.08
2.59
2. S3
2.77
8.05
3.41
4.94
4.72
3.88
2.66
8.60
9.23
13.54
7.58
88.80
ALLEGHENY ARSENAL, PENNSYLVANIA.
1886....
....
....
8.28
1.55
2.04
1.59
2.18
5.18
1887....
2.66
2.27
1.27
1.00
4.64
7.60
1.70
2.52
1.77
3.93
3.71
2.69
6.91
11.72
9.41
7.02
35.66
1888....
1.29
1.94
1.69
....
....
....
....
....
1839....
1.40
1.80
1.76
1.80
2.08
2.55
2.40
1.50
3.75
0.60
2.70
3.28
6.64
6.45
7.05
6.08
25.62
1810....
1.33
1.33
3.47
2.18
2.93
8.70
1.67
8.89
2.12
2.68
1.71
1.78
8.58
9.16
6.51
4.39
29.64
1841....
2.74
0.07
4.77
3.82
2.40
4.96
1.78
4.01
1.S5
2.31
2.77
3.41
i 10.99
10.70
6.93
6.22
34.84
1842....
2.75
2.88
8.75
4.64
2.36
3.96
4.99
6.91
2.20
2.09
1.72
3.79
11.25
14.86
0.01
9.42
41.54
1843....
2.70
3.81
8.27
2.88
4.05
8.88
1.87
2.82
6.44
8.46
2.87
2.26
10.05
8.02
12.77
8.27
89.71
1844....
2.20
0.98
3.04
1.79
4.89
4.02
2.4-t
4.47
2.57
2.85
1.85
1.50
9.72
10.93
7.27
4.63
32.55
1845....
2.85
1.60
8.04
2.61
1.18
4.04
3.74
8.06
3.39
8.37
2.02
1.19
6.73
10.84
8.78
5.54
31.89
1846....
2.92
2.78
2.02
8.76
4.62
4.05
7.15
6.06
1.95
4.78
2.60
5.16
10.40
17.25
9.33
10. SI
47.79
1847....
3.01
2.S6
S.47
2.65
3.64
5.-32
4. IS
3.26
3.92
4.76
4.27
4.9S
9.00
12.76
12.95
10. S5
46.22
1848....
1.31
0.50
3.20
2.45
5.51
8.03
8.69
2.27
2.08
2.11
8.11
4.88
11.10
8.99
7.30
6.69
84.14
1849....
2.43
1.31
8.85
0.83
5.S3
2.84
1.26
3.26
1.26
8.86
8.97
4.11
10.61
7.86
9.09
7.85
84.81
1S50....
8.76
8.46
2.74
2.59
3.30
2.62
2.82
1.27
8.62
4.29
2.19
4.76
8.63
6.71
10.10
11.97
37.41
1861....
0.35
8.01
1.43
2.83
3.67
2.04
4.80
2.66
2.62
1.45
8.67
1.71
7.83
9.00
7.74
6.17
29.74
1852....
1.80
8.84
2.08
9.27
3.84
2.76
2.65
2.76
3.09
2.24
2.67
5.01
15.14
8.07
8.00
10.15
41.86
1S53....
1.66
8.68
1.11
4.16
3.27
1.32
2.74
6.56
2.34
2.04
2.90
2.10 '
8.54
10.62
7.28
7.19
33.63
1854....
2.23
2.33
2.82
4.21
2.24
2.06
1.45
1.13
1.76
2.89
1.88
1.67 '
8.13
9.27
9.88
4.64
6.63
6.23
26.67
Mean ..
2.18
2.17
2.70
3.10
3.58
3.50
2.97
3.34
2.68
2.87
2.68
9.87
8.23
7.48
34.96
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
567
CARLISLE BARRACKS, PENNSYLVANIA.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May. June. July. Aug.
s«r.t.
Oct.
Nor.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer. Autumn.
Winter.
Year.
1S48....
0.95
2.25 2.50 1 8.79
1.95
2.10
8.28
2.T8
4.T6
18.24"
8.11
ISM....
1.09
l.Sl
1 3.84
0.63
3.16 1.72 0.45
1.48
0.96
4.63
0.84
8.83
7. 68
3.60
6.43
6.23
28.91
1850....
4.2S
2.76
3. TO
2. 88
4.88 3.83 8.90
2.72
S.65
4. OS
0.87
8.81
10.91
15.00
10.60
10.85
47 86
1851....
0.51
3.00
2.85
4.76
3.41 \ 4.30 3.89
1.49
1.95
1.18
8.78
.... 1
10.52
9. 68
6.86
1S53....
1.18
2.23
3.96
4.69
2.96
3.36 3.51
4.33
1.45
1.64
6.27
3.61
11.61
11.25
9.86
7.62
39.24
1S53....
1.26
2.T3
0.73
3.02
3.69
0.81
2.63
2.63
3.01
—
.... 1
7.46
6.07
.:....
ISoi....
....
....
....
....
1.49
0.78
0.93?
2.80
i.es
4.01
Mean . .
l.GT
2.41
2.!l_'
•2.T.J
3. .38 2.63 1 4.69
2.30
2.27
2.62
2.79
3.6:3
9.05
9.67
7.65
7.61
34.01
FORT MIFFLIN, PENNSYLVANIA.
1843...
1 1.98
1.92
4.45
1.53
8.16
1.74
4.01
6.08
4.95
2.84
4.08
4.80
9.19
11.78
11.87
8.20
41.04
1S«...
5.60
2.00
4.15
2.15
3.S2
4.90
4.20
2.80
4.30
6.00
4.00
2.90
10.12
11.90
14.30
10.50
46.82
1849...
0.71
2.69
6.05
1.64
4.04
2.26
2.16
T.86
0.43
6.52
2.25
6.18
11.73
11.73
9.25
9.58
42.84
lS.iO...
1 4.29
2.52
5.89
2.93
T.65
1 65
5.23
6.84
3.45
1.54
4.66
16.02
18.72
11.47
1S51...
1.25
4.03
5.60
3. 85
4.65
3.00
3.65
3.08
0.94
3.03
3.41
1.90
18.80
9.68
T.88
7.18
38 04
1S52...
2.40
2.48
4.60
8 20
5.30
4.55
5.45
4.40
1.40
8.80
3.80
5.45
18.10
14.40
8.50
10.88
51.88
1S33...
1 O.SO
3.54
2.20
3.93
5.70
2.00
8.71
4.43
1.80
2. 84
11.88
15.13
Mean .
1 ^-^
2.60
4.63
3.44
4.90
2.87
4.77
4.98
8.19
3.72
3.51
4.23
12.97
12.62
10.42
9.26
45.27
Mt:an of 28 years at Pennsylvania Ilospital, Philadeli>liia, by Drs. Swift and Conrad, 42.3 Inches.
FORT McHENRY, MARYLAND.
1836....
....
4.10
9.20
2.85
6.70
8 15
4.00
480
1 7.10
18.25
11.95
13.37....
2.10
3.10
6.30
2.10
4.20
4.90
4.30
5.10
8.80
3.10
3.40
1 2.60
12.60
14.30
10.30
7.80
45.00
1833....
2.10
2.90
4.50
2.30
i.Si
4.70
1.90
9.10
4.50
8.10
2.70
4.50
11.60
15.70
10.30
9.50
47.10
18:39 ...
3.50
8.60
4.00
9.10
4.59
4.10
5.60
2.20
1.90
1.60
2.80
8.80
17.60
11.90
6.80
15.90
51.70
1840....
2.30
2.80
2.70
4.30
3.90
5.10
1.65
2.85
2.80
4.50
2.15
3.25
10.90
9 80
9.45
7.85
87.90
1841....
6.10
1.40
5.95
4.50
2.75
4.85
1.35
4.0O
2.80
2.80
3.80
6.10
15.10
9.70
8.40
12.60
48.90
1S42....
1.80
3.35
2.40
4.80
4.00
2.65
8.70
4.40
1.00
1.40
2.75
8.35
10.70
10.75
5.15
8.50
85.18
1343 ...
1.60
2.20
3.80
2.90
8.55
0.90
5.40
7.82
10.50
1.97
4.25
8.90
10.25
14.12
16.72
7.70
48.79
lS4r...
3.6J
1.45
8.00
1.60
4.00
1.70
8.90
0.31
4.47
8.08
1.85
8.50
8.60
5.91
9.85
8.60
82.46
1845....
2.40
8.59
1.70
1.49
2.36
2.93
1.26
2.77
1.51
3.73
1.22
8.43
5.55
6.96
6.46
9.42
28.39
1S16....
2.83
1.82
8.54
2.38
6.77
1.78
6.89
7.20
8.83
1.30
T.17
2.10
11.69
15.87
12.35
6.75
46.66
1847....
2.92
3.42
2.33
0.41
1.19
3.80
2.51
2.97
5.55
3.88
2.54
2.88
8.98
8.S4
11.47
9.72
34.01
1648....
1.58
94
2.70
0.81
2.96
4.24
4.42
8.24
1.64
7.85
1.44
8.10
6.47
11.90
10.43
5.62
34.43
1849....
1.02
1.15
3.63
0.87
4.18
1.50
2.06
2.55
1.90
6.27
1.06
4.44
8.68
6.11
9.23
6.61
80.68
1S30....
3.58
2.43
5.90
3.85
3.08
1.66
8.10
4.70
4.70
3.10
4.80
4.40
12.83
9.46
12.10
10.41
43.80
1851....
1.70
2.90
5.70
4.70
4.60
i.ao
4.20
8.80
0.50
2.20
5.60
1.50
15.00
8.79
8.80
6.10
8S.10
1852....
2.60
8.60
3.90
7.80
1.70
2.70
5.70
4.60
2.20
2.60
7.90
«.20
18.40
13.00
12.70
12.40
51.50
1353....
1.30
8.40
2.70
8.10
4.80
0.60
3.30
4.70
2.40
4.40
3.50
2.30
10.10
6.60
10.80
7.00
86.00
1S54»...
4.40
4.90
4.70
7.20
5.20
4.80
2.60
8.00
4.10
7.10
7.80
8.90
17.10
10.40
18.50
13.20
69.207
Me:in . .
2.04
2.70
8.36
8.56
8.71
3.23
3.50
4.26
3.31
8.53
3.68
8.97
11.13
11.04
10.52
9.31
42.00
* 1$^ and 1S45 appear maccurhtcly measured, one in excess and the other in deficiency. Their errors are compensating.
568
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
FORT SEVERN, MARYLAND.
Jan.
?eb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oot.
Not.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer. Autumn.
i
Winter.
Year.
1S«....
8.00
2.69
5.T1
1.24
6.2S
6.99
10.87
2.64
4.96
4.26
11.80
18.51
17.97
1$44....
4.22
0.94
8.S5
1.08
4.69
8.91
2.96
1.67
0.47
4.2S
3.62
8.37
9.82
8.54
14.87
8.58
40.76
1S«....
8.69
5.10
2.85
2.25
3.24
6.94
3.18
....
....
....
....
8.84
Mean ..
3.96
8.02
3.13
1.97
4.55
4.CS
4.14
S.88
S.42
8.46
4.29
8.81
9.65
12.00
16.17
10.79
48.61
WASHINGTON CITY.
1824....
1.50
2.65
1.9S
4.80
1.58
4.26
2.45
2.48
2.62
1.28
1.24
2.76
7.S6
9.14
6.09
6.91
29.00
1825....
1.62
2.27
8.83
3.85
2.87
2.66
1.87
1.35
0.45
1.6S
0.24
2.76
9.55
5.88
2.37
6.65
24.45
1826....
0.6:J
2.01
1.6S
0.45
0.80
1.87
2.06
2.87
1.60
l.OS
2.05
1.62
2.98
6.90
4.73
4.28
18.79
1827....
0.48
2.85
1.18
1.97
2.25
1.87
1.02
2.57
2.21
5.40
5.54
Mean ..
1.05
2.45
2.17
2.62
1.75
2.64
2.25
2.05
1.56
1.25
1.52
2.84
6.44
6.86
4.88
6.84
28.47
1886....
....
....
....
....
47.27
1887....
....
81.80
1838....
....
85.10
1839....
....
....
....
....
....
....
86.97
1838 )
10 '42. f
4.4«
2. 74
2.56
4.08
8. SO
2.92
3.92
8.69
8.62
8.55
8.08
2.67
10.45
10.58
10.15
10.07
41.20
These observations are reporlet! in the first publicittions of results from the medical department. The first were taken by Rev. Robert Little, and those from
1S36 to 1S89 by Judge Cranch. Later observations show the quantity of r;iin falling here to differ little from that at Baltimore, and the evidences are strong that
the first series was much under-measured. The last amount is from the observations of Lieutenant GiUiss, and is a mean of measui'ements from July, 1S3S, to
June, 1842, giving a close approximation to the absolute mean.
FORT WASHINGTON, MARYLAND.
1851....
....
....
....
8.77
1.42
4.92
3.51
2.27
1.95
8.66
1.73
9.85
7.88
1852....
1.54
3.28
2.88
7.05
2.29
8.51
2.89
11.64
1.75
2.20
6.90
4.64
12.22
17.94
10.85
9.41
60.42
1853....
3.19
4.40
8.47
8.66
6.28
1.66
8.8S
5.80
4.57
....
....
18.26
10.74
Mean ..
2.87
8.81
8.17
6.80
4.10
2.16
8.90
6.78
2.86
2.08
8.28
3.21
12.67
12.84
10.22
9.89
45.02
FORT MONROE, VIRGINIA.
1886....
....
....
....
....
....
6.80
5.20
0.81
2.70
4.70
3.40
8.21
1837...
1.60
2.60
2.40
0.90
2.20
8.50
2.00
7 50
6.70
0.50
2.90
9.00
6.50
13.00
9.10
18.10
40.70
1838....
2.74
1.S6
2.10
2.80
1.10
4.60
2.40
1.15
16.40
4.60
8.70
1.60
6.00
8.05
24.70
6.19
44.94
1889....
8.10
4.70
5.80
8.70
5.50
4.80
4.50
14.20
1.20
6.80
8.60
9.60
14.50
23.60
11.60
22.40
72.00
1840....
1.60
8.20
4.00
6.90
6.91
11.10
18.60
6.60
7.60
6.40
2.80
6.60
15.81
80.10
16.80
11.40
74.10
1841....
11.00
8.20
8.60
6.80
4.20
3.60
3.61
8.90
6.40
1.50
2.50
5.60
19.00
16.11
10.40
19.80
65.80
1842....
5.10
6.60
2.46
6.50
4.70
9.60
13.60
8.30
1.20
8.60
4.10
8.60
12.66
31.80
8.80
14.80
67.06
1843....
0.51
4.00
8.80
8.10
6.20
2.20
3.70
8.60
3.20
4.50
2.20
6.80
12.60
14.60
9.90
10.31
47.81
1844....
3.40
1.60
4.60
1.41
2.92
4.85
8.58
8.00
4.76
2.25
8.74
3.77
8.68
18.43
10.75
8.67
41.53
1845....
1.88
2.42
1.20
2.48
7.70
6.06
8.26
9.98
4.65
2.00
2.10
4.04
11.38
19.30
8.75
8.84
47.77
ISlC...
3.55
2.97
8.83
8.23
4.86
4.67
6.27
2.48
5.81
2.68
9.85
8.14
10.97
12.42
17.84
9.66
60.89
1817....
2.75
2.65
5.05
1.86
3.62
4.07
3.47
8.98
7.87
1.92
4.10
2.64
10.58
16.47
18.89
8.04
48.93
1843...
0.77
8.20
8.19
1.89
8.68
1.07
4.19
8.47
085
4.18
1.80
2.21
8.25
8.78
6.28
«.ie
29.44
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
569
FORT MONROE, VIRGINIA— Continued.
; Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
1
Summer Autumn Winter
Year.
U!49...
1.70
2.10
4.06
0.98
3.11
0.70
4.13
1.98
1.99
2.91
4.86
4.12
8.15
6.81 '
9.76
7.92
:s.64
1830...
4.32
2.20
3:04
2.47
3.24
1.12
18.01
3.27
2.31
0.76
1.92
7.10
8.75
22.40
4.99
13.62
49.76
1651...
3.21
2.24
2.23
1.33
2.20
2.51
3.00
4.00
0.76
2.02
2 45
0.91
5.76
9.51
5.23
6.36
26.86
1852...
0.90
1.18
1.82
2.72
i.s:)
1.89
3.83
4.90
1.55
1.92
2.06
2.94
6.07
10.63 j
5.53
5.05
27.27
1853...
1.54
1.90
1.41
2.47
2.08
0.56
5.79
1.93
1.11
O.SO
5.25
1.90
5.96
8.38 !
7.16
5.34
26.74
1854...
4 00
1.90
2.00
1.80
0.82
1.30
1.60
0.60
1.00
1.80
1.30
i.ao
4.62
3.50
4.10
7.10
19 32
Mean. <
3.48
3 'J6
3.01
2.74
3.74
3.33
3.01
2.80
4.17
3.64
4.41
3.78
6.10
5.56
6.29
5.70
4.68
3.93
3.61
2.82
3.58
3.41
4.81
4.17
10.92
9.77
16.80
15.08 1
11.87
10.16
11.30
10.17
50.89
45.18
The measurements of rain at Fort Monroe for the last four years differ so widely from those of previous years as to lead to the inference that the gauge is
defective or that the observations were inaccurate. The first summary is of obscrvrilions prcviims lo 1851.
FORT JOHNSTON, NOra'H CAROLINA.
1844....
1845....
3.40
1.85
1.50
2.00
4.00
2.99
0.70
0.48
1.57
3.94
3.28
1.61
8.43
1.93
7.90
9.86
2.43
4.04
6.27
7.41
19.61
16.32
7.85
50.05
Mean..
2.64
1.75
3.49
0.59
2.75
2.44
5.18
7.90
9.66
2.42
4.04
2.95
6.83
15.53
1
16.^
7.34
46.01
FORT MOULTRIE. SOUTH CAROLINA.
1842....
....
....
....
....
....
....
2.86
3.45
i
1843....
2.07
2.09
10.52
0.02
2.38
3.34
5.54
7.76
5.39
0.65
0.55
2.61
13.92
16.53
6.59
6.77
42.80
1844....
2.66
1.69
4.07
1.20
1.87
1.51
4.85
4.32
6.05
0.91
3.40
1.45
7.14
10.68
10.36
5.80
33.98
1843....
3.43
0.93
1.95
0.10
6.53
3.19
6.05
5.90
3.60
7.55
0.20
6.07
8.58
14.14
10.35
10.44
43.51
1S46....
4.97
3.51
5.50
3.35
1.90
3.25
4.60
9.05
3.30
0.33
1.35
10.75
16.90
9.83
1847....
1.69
O.SO
7.66
1.52
9.45
5.50
13.23
14.70
6.64
0.00
0.45
4.35
18.63
33.45
7.09
6.14
65.3!
1848....
0.73
5.83
1.73
3.80
7.10
7.85
5.85
6.32
9.40
5.23
1.23
1.70
12.65
20.02
15.90
8.30
56.87
1849....
0.25
1.45
1.50
0.50?
4.60
3 60
7.60
10.80
4.70
3.99
0.71
1.08
6 60
21.00
9.40
2.78
39.78
1850....
2.95
2.83
6.01
2.59
4.10
0.78
2.K
4.03
3.68
0.88
1.99
4.64
13.70
7.13
5.55
10.43
33.80
1851....
3.67
2.51
1.93
1.65
0.63
825
8.57
5.89
0.29
1.28
3.34
1.10
4.21
22.74
4.91
7.28
39.11
1852....
0.51
1.21
4.35
2.96
4.17
8.86
5.43
4.15
11.70
1.20
2.12
4.60
11.48
18.44
15.02 !
B.SS
51.96
1853....
1.90
2.80
3.30
1.06
2.33
1.53
10.88
2.30
8.10
4.05
4.89
3.39
6.89
14.63
17.04 '
7.09
45.65
1854....
3.80
2.84
0.25
2 20
3.70
4.20
5.69
3.82
9.34
1.13
1.16
1.74
6.15
13.71
11.52
8.38
39.76
Mean...
2.39
2.33
4.06
1.75
4.08
4.15
6.73
6.58
5.83
2.44
1.79
3.80
9.69
17.43
10.06
7.S2
44.92
AUGUSTA ARSENAL, GEORGIA.
1844....
_
....
0.57
1.41
1.34
0.53
3.34
0.37
1.88
1.76
3.18
.4.49
.....
1845....
1.90
0.62
0.78
0.05
1.07
1.20
0.35
263
0.53
3.51
50
6.00
1.90
4.17
4.54
8.52
19.13?
1846....
3.59
4 25
8.60
2.89
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
Mean. . .
2.74
2.43
4.69
1.47
0.82
1.3(1
0.79
1.57
1.43
1.89
1.19
3.88
6.78
3.66
4.51
8.05
23.00
S. 00-
-72
570
SERIES OP MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OP BAIN.
OGLEl'HORPE BARRACKS, GEORGIA.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
Jujie.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1843....
1.27
2 03
12.51
0.84
2.01
5.69
5.33
7.16
1 34
0.60
0.96
3.57
15.36
18.18
3.10
4.26
40.90
1814 ...
3.G1
1.10
8.77
3.07
2.47
8.19
13.92
4.10
6.08
0.57
2.78
2.90
14.31
26.21
9.43
7.61
57.56
1815....
2.85
0.03
2.21
O.SO
5.30
2.37
2.80
9.94
2.21
5.94
0.£2
3.96
7.71
15.11
8.37
6.06
38.05
184G....
6.54
4.70
5.06
3.72
1.36
5.81
7.08
6.44
7.17
....
....
10.14
19.33
li*50....
3.03
7.00
6.72
6.00
1.20
14.80
12.67
3.37
0.70
0.80
3.27
19.72
28.67
4.87
Mean. . .
3.57
2.16
7.11
2.91
3.43
4.65
8.79
8.06
4.07
1.95
1.19
3.42
13.45
23.50
7.21
9.17
53.33
FORT MARION, ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA.
1844....] 1.94
1815.... 1.98
1846....; 4.13
1
1851. ...[ ....
1852....! 0.32
1.00
0.50
4.32
1.71
0.59
4.71
2.05
1.67
0.93
1.26
0.60
1.70
2.63
2.97
2.63
1.77
0.64
2.18
0.59
6.28
8.01
....
2.37
4.11
3.23
2.68
3.38
7.13
4.81
5.60
0.49
6.06
0.71
0.73
0.43
....
2.72
'l.55
3.08
1.60
8.94
5.28
5.14
4.25
8.13
14.62
8.35
11.31
9.03
4.49
5.56
29.91
Mean...l 2.09 1.63
2.34
1.56
2.00
1
4.27 3.24 I 3.03
5.85
2.42
1.29
2.08
5.90
10.54
9.56
5.80
31.80
FORT SHANNON, FLORIDA.
1841»...
0.49
1.30
6.17
3.60
2.00
8.45
5.80
11.32
6.50
4.29
2.56
1.65
11.77
25.57
13.25
3.44
54.13
1842 ...
0.43
2.84
1.02
1.70
4.49
5.87
10.55
6.30
4 99
4.67
1.97
0.84
7.21
22.72
11.63
4.11
45.67
1843....
1.87
3.79
14.28
2.12
2.09
5.31
5.70
5.18
1.50
2.39
0.28
1.76
15.39
16.19
4.17
7.42
43.17
Mean. . .
0.93
2.64
7.16
2.47
2.86
6.54
7.35
7.60
4.33
3.78
1.60
1.42
12.49
21.49
9.71
4.99
48.68
• January and February at Fort Reui, a. few nules distant.
FORT PIERCE, (CAPRON,) FLORIDA.
1853....
0.42
1.73
0.63
1.14
2.75
7.23
4.47
3; IS
2.46
....
3.50
14.45
1&)2....
—
....
3.05
4.80
1.30
6.85
8.00
4.30
7.00
0.60
1.82
2.30
9.15
19.15
9.42
1853....
5.00
2.20
5.15
2.45
4.55
29.35
2.50
13.50
17.50
10.00
3.41
0.75
12.15
45.35
41.00
7.98
M6.48
1854....
3.55
3.40
1.05
7.00
5.70
6.63
4.97
2.63
3.30
5.47
1.41
1.68
13.75
14.23
10.18
8.63
46.79
1855....
4.81
2.56
2.80
1.14
5.54
....
....
....
....
9.49
Mean...
4.45
2.72
3.01
3 85
4.27
14.28
5.16
6.81
9.27
5.36
2.21
1.59
11.13
26.25
16.84
8.76
62.98
The first quantities given for 1653 are at Ifew Smyrna, and are not included in the summary.
KEY WEST, FLORIDA.
1837....
1.83
0.92
0.75
2.42
5.35
1.68
1.65
7.50
5.80
6. OS
3.05
1.65
8.52
10.83
14.90
4.40
38.65
1838....
0.05
0.05
0.00
0.02
0.82
4.86
1.15
3.05
3.47
0.40
5.75
0.87
0.84
9.06
9.62
0.97
20.49
1844....
1.23
0.13
0.05
1.36
7.13
1.26
2.63
8.50
14.07
0.44
1.28
1.54
11.02
23.01
2.51
38.08
1845....
4.43
0.14
3.67
2.00
4.33
6,07
5.00
....
10.10
1850....
2.02
3.38
3.93
4.18
0.01
2,10
7.32
1851....
2.40
0,88
1.6D
1,80
,1.32
9,94
3,24
6.80
14.00
9.45
2,30
2.64
ft, 62
19.28
25 75
5.92
59.57
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF KAIN.
571
KET WEST, FLORIDA— Continued.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1852....
1.82
3.67
8.74
2.17
0.40
8.51
6.16
6.03
6.22
4.18
3.00
3.41
11.31
20.70
13.40
8.90
54.31
1853....
2.80
0.35
12.06
....
0.94
18.11
2.33
5.02
4.39
1.69
1.08
0.89
25.46
7.16
4.04
18.54....
1.77
2.55
51
2 99
3.14
4.54
3.45
5.83
9.70
4.73
0.25
8.45
6.64
13.^
14.68
12.77
47.91
1855....
3.94
0.83
S.87
0.24
3.55
4.47
....
....
....
....
6.66
8.34
Mean...
2.86
1.38
4.21
1.55
2.58
8.39
3.35
4.95
7.79
6.38
1.18
3.13
16.59
15.35
7.37
47.65
A register of the fall of rain at Key West was kept by W. A. Whitehead, esq., and A. Gordon, esq., collectors of castoms, for 1834, 18.15, 1837, and 1838,
giving fur those years 36.1, 30.1, 36.7, and '20.5 inches respectively. Two ol these years are given in the table to show the characteristic deficiency in tlie winter
m-'nlhs: tliey are not incUideil in the summary.
FORT MYERS, FLORIDA.
1851....
7.61
3.38
2.09
4.57
2.71
18.51
7.35
3.61
8.01
1.66
0.55
1,50
9.37
29.47
10.22
12.49
61.55
1852....
1.54
1.00
11.77
5.70
3.25
18.13
12.02
7.60
9.54
0.40
0.98
2.34
20. ra
37.75
10.92
4.88
74.27
1853....
4.29
1.60
2.52
2.20
1.79
25.58
6.35
10.38
22.10
1.40
0.79
3.55
5.51
42.31
24.47
9.44
82.73
1854....
1.15
4.70
0.20
2.75
5.65
6.75
9.70
9.90
1.50
0.35
0.45
1.65
8.60
26.35
2.30
7.50
44.75
1855....
3.20
0.55
6.40
0.50
3.00
10.20
6.80
....
9.90
Mean...
3.56
2.24
4.60
3.14
3.28
15.83
8.45
7.87
' 10.29
1
0.98
0.69
2.26
11.02
32.15
11.96
8.06
63.19
FORT BROOKE, FLORIDA.
1840....
2.60
•i.OO
3.20
1.90
8.85
6.72
24.52
23.40
7.75
4,80
4.56
0.56
13.95
54.64
17.11
4.16
89.86
1341....
0.88
■2.54
2.80
0.30
0.30
8.95
10.60
8.10
5.61
3,31
3,10
2.40
3,40
27.65
12.02
S.ffl
48.89
1842....
0.30
2.83
0.10
2.70
2.80
2.90
11.00
12.50
4,00
3,20
2.00
1.63
5,60
26,40
9.20
4.76
45,96
1843....
3.37
5.70
7.20
1.30
2.00
6.90
8.61
6,60
9.90
2,60
0.80
1 30
10,50
22,11
13.30
10.37
56.28
1844....
1.10
3.30
1.80
0.10
5.50
4.70
7.70
15,77
3.50
2.20
3.10
2.90
7.40
28.17
8.80
7.30
51.67
1845....
3.60
0.15
0,40
0.20
4.03
4.51
12.30
8.23
12.69
2.14
1.00
3.61
4.63
25,04
15.83
7.56
53.06
1S46....
3.01
4.97
7.73
2.93
4.44
8.17
8.80
9,03
1 33
3.11
0.18
0.50
15.10
26. UO
4.63
8.48
54.20
1847....
2.24
3.25
4.38
1.61
1.00
4.68
7.23
4.80
10.23
2.01
0.28
4.50
6.99
16,60
12.52
9 99
46.10
1848....
0.36
0.21
0.05
1.23
230
10.59
21.31
14.80
....
3.58
46.70
1849....
....
....
....
8.74
6.33
3,55
1.74
0.77
1.13
6.06
1850....
144
5.92
3.50
1.65
3 98
2.05
11.98
5.43
2.71
2.89
9,13
19.46
1851....
.. .
2.03
6.57
3.18
6.35
6.93
1.85
2.10
3,00
16,10
10.88
1852....
0.95
o.es
6.40
3.05
3.06
13.20
10.95
14.30
10,00
0,30
3.20
3.00
12.51
33,45
13.50
4.80
69.26
1853....
455
1.60
3.35
0.75
0.30
9.09
4.12
4,67
4.36
1.70
2.90
7.38
4.40
17 88
8.96
13.53
44,77
1854....
3.83
6.89
2.44
8.82
6.21
9.44
15 53
11.23
4 68
1.77
1.75
4.85
17.47
3S.20
8.20
15.57
77.44
1855....
2.34
2.88
3.89
0.75
1.77
3.24
7.07
....
....
6.41
8.04
Mean...
2 20
3.01
3 37
1.9.-,
7.04
11.10
10,10
6,23
2 40
2.00
2.83
8.56
28.24
10.63
55.47
FORT MEADE, FLORIDA.
1851....
1852....
0.69
1653....
1.23
1854....
1.30
Mean,..
1.07 ,
0.27 I 2.08 [ 2.13
0.55 ' 0.99 1 0.03
2.21 I 1,85 3,19
1.64
1.78
3.00
8.67
5.73
6.47
7.67
2.04
2.31
11.71
11.41
6.35
6,60
1,32
0.15
3.54
4.52
2.39
2.12
0,31
10.57
7.24
8.55
10.20
2,99
2,34
534
7.79
7.55
6,35
4 85
1.50
1.28
0.15
0.78
0.03
0.56
2.37
1.33
1.67
30.87
6.52 29.47
1.17 10,45
15.61 25,99
8,76 20,68
10.99
8.07
3.21
5.25
2.38
3.44
46.34
18.27
3 87 40.22
572
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
CEDAR KEYS, FLORIDA.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn 'Winter.
i
Year.
18-10....
1841 ...
1M2....
....
4.70
0.90
1.80
8.80
3.40
0.20
1.40
1.40
1.00
0.80
U.SO
1.30
1.10
3.10
8.00
IS. 05
10. SO
10.10
6.30
4.00
4.60
1.70
5.60
4.10
3.30
5.10
1.10
1 OS
2.10
2.90
5.80
2.40
25.10
19.40
11.30
14.70
9.80
8.60
12 60
54.20
44.20
Mean. . .
3.80
S.30
1.80
1.40
o.yo
1 6.40
4.07
11.88
4.97
3.80
3.17
2.01
4.10
22.35
11.94
10.11
48.50
FORT BARRANCAS, PENSACOLA, FLORIDA.
1842....
....
....
....
....
12.29
1.48
13.04
2.30
6.46
2.18
21.80
1843....
2.54
2.77
7.85
5.86
0.70
13.04
4.95
7.04
5.87
1.46
5.78
6.30
14.41
25.03
13.11
9.61
62.16
1844....
5.76
0.91
7.78
1.98
5.52
5.11
7.67
6.59
2.61
1.99
11.57
2.09
15.28
19.37
16.17
8.76
59.58
1845...
4.17
1.16
5.00
0.42
3.69
1.37
3.46
2.93
4.14
9.11
9.47
1846....
8.28
10.46
5.80
6.34
....
14.48
10.62
2.65
0.48
4.73
2.36
7.86
21.10
1847....
4.78
8 98
10.95
5.85
890
....
....
....
...
....
25.70
1851....
3.50
8.03
0.60
4.52
4.20
0.96
1.11
6.15
1.66
....
8.39
2.54
9.32
8.22
24.07
1852....
0.97
3.40
....
8.02
16.25
0.65
1.10
7.80
3.51
9.55
7.88
1853....
4.15
6.80
4.82
0.51
4.00
4.51
3.80
2.95
12.25
....
1.25
9.33
11.36
12.20
_
1854....
3 45
5.55
7.21
0.50
3.47
3.39
5.43
6.81
3.47
7.14
0.76
3.74
11.18
15.63
11.37
12.64
50.82
1855....
1.09
1.44
2.86
1.00
1.92
4.21
....
....
....
5.78
Mean...
3.87
4.95
5.87
2.94
4.05
4.66
6.80
7.23
5.25
2.41
6.05
3.90
12.86
18.69
13.71
11.72
56.98
FORT MITCHELL,* ALABAMA.
* On the Coosa river, near Montgomery, latitude 32"' 25'.
MOUNT VERNON ARSENAL, ALABAMA.
1836...
2.10
3.40
0.64
0.11
3.86
1.48
4.61
1837...
2.29
5.52
4.61
6.70
6.30
7.08
1.40
6.17
1.81
......
17.60
14.65
9.29
46.15
1840....
....
....
....
....
....
• <•■
....
....
5.73
1.70
2.69
1
1841....
12.84
4.86
9.28
4.65
7.23
4.60
....
....
....
21.16
1843....
3.81
5.90
9.22
5.17
0.72
16.67
6.11
2.18
3.49
5.04
6.27
11.80
15.11
24.96
14.80
21.51
76.38
1844....
....
....
....
....
5.92
9.38
5.03
8.29
0.98
2.90
10.57
2.54
^.70
14.45
1845....
11.30
8.37
4.52
1.79
2.54
2 19
2.73
6.48
5.40
11.87
4.99
6.34
8.85
11.40
22.26
26.01
68.52
1846....
6.82
5.31
5.63
11.51
5.49
5.57
9 42
4.74
2.12
0.40
3.75
4.60
22.63
19.73
6.27
16.73
65.36
1847....
6.83
7.70
6.45
3.77
3.94
4.05
11.92
7.39
5.85
0.43
4.10
9.01
14.16
23.36
10.37
23.54
71.43
1848....
3.90
5.17
3.5U
3.78
3.15
6.35
3.10
4.39
3.99
1.54
7.94
5 74
8.43
13 84
12.47
14.81
49.15
1849....
2.89
2.44
1.36
3.06
6.11
9.25
14.56
11.15
0.65
13.00
10.54.'
4.32
10.53
34.96
24.19
9.55
79.23
1850....
9.49
4 81
2.09
4.22
6.72
2.01
6.44
5.13
0.13
0.85
2.32
5.22
13.03
12.58
3.32
19.62
48.55
1851....
3.89
7.26
0.77
1.14
3.44
5.35
1 84
8.60
4.42
2.07
6.99
3.91
5.35
15.88
13.48
14.06
48.77
1852....
1.^2
1.95
1.52
6.24
6.75
1.56
1.92
9.64
0.70
2.40
9.74
7.15
14.51
13.12
12.84
11.02
51.49
1853«...
11.18
8.10
16.45
6.59
5.34
2.00
12.64
8 95
11.09
8.44
2.70
13.09 i
28.38
33.59
22.23
32.37
106.57.'
1854....
11.01
12.83
6.22
1.96
4.45
6.72
6.13
3.39
6.82
0.81
2.34
0.73
12.63
15.34
9.97
24.57
63.51
Mean. . .
6.80
6.04
4.59
4.21
4.62
6.14
6.30
6.40
3.05
3.92
6.18
5.25
1
13.42
18.84
13.15
18.09
63.50
•The mi'asuri'nipnts for lljin ycnr arc rpjerted trrim ihi' snmimi'V for inl«mal evidence of error, at well as by tha amount in somparison with other years.
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
573
PASS CHRISTIAN AND EAST PASCAGOULA, MISSISSIPPI.
Jan.
Feb. .March.
.April.
May.
Juno.
July.
Au5.
Sept.
Oct.
Not.
Dec.
1
Spring. Summer
1
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1843....
8.70
2.39
11.19
2.39
....
IB44....
....
7.99
4.61
o.->>
1.54
184,'>....
2.70
....
1
1849....
....
5.94
9.12
4.82
1.83
....
8.77
1850 ...
....
....
1.76
1.03
...
....
1851....
....
....
2.25
1.44
6.14
5.K
5.83
....
' 12.90
1852...
8.8S
1.85
6.04
8.54
0.65
16.43
law....
....
10.72
3.61
6.83
....
....
Mean. . .
....
....
5.55
1.65
7.05
4.60
3.98
2 92
....
!
13 25
FORT WOOD, LOUISIANA.
1843....
1.50
0.22
18.24
8.61
2.04
5.66
2.39
6.77
6.42
28.89
14.82
18-14....
4 85
0.41
3.48
0.39
5.31
1.89
4.28
8 11
1.50
4.06
10.68
1.88
9.18
14.28
16.24
7.14
46.84
1845....
5.42
1.28
5.35
1.42
7.31
0.95
4.01
3.78
5.24
10.49
....
14.08
8.74
1846....
6.45
3.94
10.61
18.17
....
....
....
....
Mean...
5.57
1.88
6.48
5.37
4.28
7.03
5.63
4.64
4.13
5.65
5.82
4.15
16.13
17.30
15.60
11.60
60.63
FORT PIKE, LOUISIANA.
1843....
....
...
....
4.26
1.55
29.56
18.22
6.01
15.26
4.14
6.49
7.31
S3.79
25 89
1844....
4.03
0.80
3.50
0.86
9.52
1.18
5.76
3.31
1.61
3.30
7.14
3.25
13.88
10.25
12.05
8.08
44.26
1845....
4.42
2.23
3.65
99
2.69
0.73
1.40
....
....
....
3.30
7.33
1846....
8.40
4.19
14.25
13.75
....
....
....
....
....
....
Mean...
5.62
2.41
7.13
4.98
4.59
10.49
8.46
4.66
8.43
3.72
6.81
4.62
16.70
23.61
18 96
12.65
71.92
NEW ORLEANS BARRACKS, LOUISIANA.
1839....
8.10
3.40
2.19
2.10
2.02
3.11
9.8G
4.80
0.12
2.40
3.92
4.40 ;
6.31
17.77
6.44
15.90
46.42
1840....
a. 11
2.01
1.09
3.10
4.80
7.10
5.60
3.10
1.80
7.80
5.55
2.22
8.99
15.80
15.15
4.31
44.28
1841....
19.50
5.10
6.90
5.10
1.70
3.10
0.89
3.41
2.87
2.41
0.11
9.44
13.70
7.40
5.39
34.04
60.53
18.12....
4.21
3.51
2.71
5.20
1.12
1.13
4.52
7.40
4.80
1.50
3.25
1.70
9.03
13. Uo
9.55
9.42
41.05
1843...
4.U0
3.80
5.31
2.67
0.45
14 57
....
1.93
6.02
8.43
13.82
1844...
4.41
0.73
3.90
0.53
3.16
2.75
....
....
....
7.78
1.35
7.59
15.35
9.54
6.49
38.97
1845....
6.24
1.19
5.16
1.99
8.06
3.20
....
15.21
1846...
i •••
7.88
10.70
5.38'
1.85*
8.86
....
24.96
1847...
7.71
3.77
3.40
4.63
4.80
3.43
5.06
6.81
2.83
0.75
2 59
7.73
12.83
15.30
6.17
19.31
S3.51
1848...
5 42
1.28
1.97
3.92
4.75
9.36
7.79
8.37
0.80
2.31
883
1.86
10.64
25.52
11 94
8.56
S6.66
1849...
3.55
2.45
2.83
2.43
8.01
3.79
11.09
13.27
1850...
7 40
4..T3
2.27
4.10
6.20
8.92
6.31
0.96
1.58
3.46
12.57
15.39
1851...
3.82
3.18
1.20
3.49
....
....
3.70
9.00
2.69
9.69
1852...
0.80
1.45
4.24
5.25
....
2.83
7.00
5.30
7.55
1853...
3.20
4.20
7.38
1.88
2.80
1.86
....
....
....
....
12.06
Mean. .
5 61
2.90
3.90
3.29
4.10
4.97
6.66
5.65
2.20
2.74
4.68
4.20
11.29
17.28
9.62
12.71
50.90
* Incomplete measuremenu.
574
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
•
BATON
KOUGE, LOUISIANA.
Jon.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn Winter.
Year.
1W3....
9.06
S.39
6.54
3 08
2.78
7.63
8.20
2.57
9.16
3.58
4.28
9.81
13.40
18.39
16.03
14.26
61.07
1)S44....
5.40
....
3.10
0.50
3.30
3.50
3.-0
5.60
1.10
3.60
7.06
2.30
6.90
12.80
11.76
1843....
4.90
1.80
5.90
4.80
3.10
4.40
6.40
3.30
3.60
3.10
5.00
5.30
13.60
13.10
11.70
12.00
50.60
1846....
4.80
5.70
12.30
17.20
13.20
16.00
14.40
15.90
5.20
0.80
6.20
4.70
43.70
46.50
13.20
15.30
116.60
1847....
11. GO
....
....
....
....
2.30
3.30
4.20
....
....
....
....
1848....
....
....
....
....
8.60
11.80
12.10
0.50
1.38
6.80
7.60
33 50
6.68
1849....
3.30
6.20
1.30
2.50
10.93 ,
5.38
3.24
6.00
5.03
3.50
13.27
11.90
1850....
16.02
7.45
3.13
9.40
4.19
9.01
4.28
3.75
3.58
1.03
9.28
16.72
17.04
33.37
1851...,
0.97
5.27
1.54
2.26
1.42
2.06
2.68
7.96
0.59
2.32
8.91
5.36
5.22
13.70
11.82
11.60
41 34
i&'ia....
1.56
6 73
2.19
8.39
6.08
1.33
5.64
2.26
3.30
3.81
9.32
3.95
16.56
9.23
15.43
13.24
53.46
1853....
4.48
4.19
4.67
0.57
4.55
2.05
11.18
4.93
...
1.35
5.00
9.79
18.16
1854....
285
5.50
6.15
3.58
8.05
4.00
6.55
7.41
9.88
4.38
U.45
1.82
17.78
17.96
14.71
10.17
60.63
Mean. . .
5.26
4.91
4.68
5.22
5.18
5.53
7.42
6.20
3.91
2.67
5.90
5.23
1
15.08
19.14
13.48
15 40
62.10
FORT
JESUP
, LOUISIANA
1836....
7.05
3.33
5.78
5.53
3.93
5.10
3.09
4.29
4.43
2.50
1.40
3.43
15.34
13.48
8.33
13.80
49.85
1837....
1.75
3.08
8.69
1.63
3.55
3.81
4.20
4.27
9.11
7.32
0.30
4.84
12.86
11.38
16.73
8.67
49.54
1838...
5.83
3.60
4.60
10.80
5.33
1.50
0.67
3.55
0.51
3.85
2.40
5.60
30.72
5.72
6.76
14.02
47.22
1839....
3.72
7.40
3.71
2.50
4.10
3.60
6.33
1.40
0.20
5.10
4.30
4.20
10.31
10 33
9.50
15.32
45.36
1840....
3.40
1.96
2.41
3.25
2.90
6.95
5.18
0.85
1.67
1.44
3.18
3.93
8.56
13.98
6.29
9.29
37.12
1841....
7.83
0.06
5.89
2.98
5.93
15.70
0.45
5.60
2.54
6.11
0.67
3.19
14.80
31.75
9.32
10.08
55.95
1842....
3.86
5.79
4.03
5.59
1.40
1.64
3.90
3.17
4.41
2.52
3.86
3.71
11.03
8.71
9.79
12.36
42.27
1843....
2.20
1.41
3.23
5.60
4.42
3.30
7.66
1.34
3.64
5.79
8.30
7.08
13.27
12.30
16.73
10.69
53.99
1S44....
4.10
1.30
5.30
6.60
3.05
5.11
1.77
2.24
2.83
3.81
3.87
2.54
14.95
9.12
9.51
7.84
41.42
1843....
8.32
1.80
3.55
4 12
4.43
1.43
0.50?
....
1.90?
3.03
0.60?
3.50
2.80
12.10
12.92
Mean...
4.70
2.76
5.02
4.86
3.80
4.61
3.36
2.97
3.80
2.92
4.03
13.68
10.94
9.74
11.49
45.85
FORT
TOWSON, INDIAN
TERRITORY.
1836....
....
5.90
1.30
3.30
3.70
6.30
3.80
1.40
9.50
13.70
1837....
1.00
1.60
6.00
2.50
6.30
6.10
7 00
1.10
5.40
3.10
2.10
1.60
14.80
14.20
10.60
4.20
43.80
1838....
4.20
2.10
1.60
1.90
6.70
0.70
2.10
3.70
0.30
2.80
5.40
2.90
10.20
0.50
8.50
9.20
34.40
1839....
7.10
1.35
5.20
1.60
7.50
17.50
6.40
5.10
2.10
3.90
7.00
1.30
14.30
29.90
12.00
9.75
66.00
1840....
4.40
3.00
3.70
13.60
2.30
1.60
4.eo
3.00
6.20
8.60
3.00
1.50
19.60
9.40
17.80
8.90
55.70
1841....
3.00
0.20
7.30
3.20
3.30
7.00
3.50
6.50
9.90
9.20
8.30
13.80
25.60
12.10
1843....
3.70
7.50
7.40
10.30
8.80
14 20
4.70
4.00
4.00
1.85
2.06
5.85
' 26.50
22.90
7.91
16.05
73.36
1843....
2.78
0.25
3.35
7.10
9.36
1.91
4.40
5.72
4.40
6.56
9.37
0.80
19.71
12.03
20.33
3.83
55.90
1844....
3.45
2.08
4,56
10.38
3.25
2.66
5.35
7.96
1.30
2.77
1.73
1.03
18.19
15.97
5.80
6.58
46.54
1845...
3.00
0.70
5.73
3.49
5.17
e.ai
0.00
3.26
2.48
4.90
1.19
1.81
14. .39
9.61
7.57
5.51
.37.08
1816....
3.30
2.73
5.00
5.99
....
1849....
....
....
6 21
10.76
3.57
2.54
3.66
2.91
6.17
20.54
9.11
1850....
4 03
4.07
2.83
4.79
2.04
5.06
3.29
4..-)9
2.66
5.19
6.21
5.07
9.68
12.73
14.06
13.17
49.64
1851....
1.70
11.09
2.66
2.52
6.33
5.04
7.34
0.01
1.13
3.69
....
1 1 .51
4.83
18.';2....
....
....
4.88
4.84
0.77
18.W....
1.72
3.90
3.88
4.99
9.09
0.90
5.38
0.49
6. 11
3.40
1.97
1.27
17.96
6.77
11.48
5.89
43.10
1854....
1.01
2.00
5.10
2.^
....
....
....
....
Mean...
3.13
2.97
4.38
5.33
5.84
5.76
4.62
3.96
3.41
4.59
4.33
2.84
15.53
14.36
12.23
8.94
51.08
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
575
FORT WASHITA, INDIAN TERRITORY.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
NOV.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn Winter.
Year.
1843....
....
• ■••
....
....
0.60
8.61
3.80
7.56
1.85
19.97
1&14....
1.77
2.87
4.35
5.05
4.59
4.43
2.76
1.67
2.25
3.80
2.29
17
13.99
8.66
8.34
4.81
36.00
1845....
1.35
0.66
5 48
5.04
4.50
2.62
0.33
4.12
2.65
3.65
2.40
1.90
15.(K
7.07
8 70
3.91
34.70
1S46....
4 40
2.73
2.50
324
4.70
10.23
1.14
2 30
9.60
2.35
355
3 01
10 44
13.67
15.50
10.14
49.75
M7....
1.38
4.10
3.61
1.60
3.05
3.09
6.55
3 85
2.40
0.41
4.65
0.86
8.26
15.49
7.46
6.34
37.45
1848....
1.38
1.54
1.70
7.91
1.97
4.30
3.73
0.33
2.45
2.55
4.90
2.50
11.58
8.38
9.90
S.42
35.28
1849....
2.65
2.65
2.69
6.S6
14 61
4.00
13.40
4.00
3.74
4.42
2.50
2.67 ;
24.66
21.40
10.66
7.97
64.29.'
1850....
3.10
0.68
2.49
3.33
4.22
5.67
3.30
4.80
2.30
2.56
5.14
3.75
11.04
13.77
10.00
7.53
42.34
1851....
0.20
5.70
1.35
2.95
4.47
4.30
0.10
1.40
0.60
3.60
5.15
2.80
8.77
5.70
8.35
8.70
31.52
1852....
1.37
4.80
5.40
1.62
4.61
5.48
2.90
4.45
6.43
3.93
3.77
0.29
11.63
13.83
16.15
6.46
47.07
1853....
0.62
2.67
0.75
1.39
7.30
229
4.48
0.95
4.28
3.50
O.SO
1.43.
9.44
7.72
8.58
4.72
30.46
1854....
0.01
3.30
5.53
4.21
11.73
9.17
0.59
1.39
1.17
1.19
3.57
1.42
21.47
11.13
5.93
4.73
43.28
Mean..
1.65
2.88
3.27
3.94
5.98
5.04
3.57
2.66
3.87
3.06
3.85
1.89 !
13.19
11.27
10.78
6.«
41.66
FORT SMITH, ARKANSAS.
1837....
....
....
....
3.35
8.91
5 00
0.20
6.90
1.40
3.50
2.30
14.11
11.80
1833....
0.60
0.20
0.80
3.40
4.50
1.50
3.95
1.95
1.10
4.00
4.80
1.50
7.70
7.40
9.90
2.30
27.30
1339....
1.43
0.77
4.75
2.05
1.75
8.50
2.42
5.35
4.45
7.17
2.18
1.35
8.55
16.47
13.80
3.77
43.59
1840....
1.70
2.65
80
8.50
4.43
1.90
7.41
0.67
6.54
7.91
3.96
2.76
13.73
9.98
13.41
7.11
46.23
1841....
1.36
....
1.44
J. 49
3 28
6.58
0.30
7.17
3.^
8.72
12.57
4.70
6.21
14.05
25.11
1842....
3.82
9.99
1.13
4.76
4.33
4.39
2.08
263
1.62
0.78
0.90
2.36
10.^
9.10
3.30
16.17
38.79
1843....
1.51
0.26
2.29
5.49
4.85
6.80
3.28
2.37
3.42
2.14
3.51
2 07
13.63
12.43
9.07
3.84
37.97
1844....
1.30
3.53
2.41
14.28
3.12
1.10
1.37
0.52
2.08
2.01
0.91
0.30
19.81
2.99
5.00
5.13
32.93
1845....
2.29
1.20
5.03
1.96
3.67
2.85
0.51
9.14
1.60
2.90
1.13
1.06
10.68
11.25
563
4.35
32.11
1846....
1.93
2.27
1.52
5.48
5 65
7.00
1.71
5.58
4.75
2.30
2.14
5 40
12.65
14.29
9.19
9.60
45.73
1847....
0.98
1.73
5.56
3.22
3.80
5.95
11.18
6.40
0.76
1.26
7.03
1.13
12.58
33.53
9.07
3.86
49.04
1848....
a. 88
1.00
3.74
5.64
5.92
4.90
5.23
2.35
0.90
3.80
3.33
4.43
15.30
12.48
8.25
633
44.36
1849...
4.35
1.76
4.65
8.45
8.40
6.79
7.90
1.95
1.63
2.00
3.70
3.94
21.50
16. &)
7. .13
12.03
57.34
1850....
2.87
0.95
1.53
5.28
3.12
3.27
...
....
9.95
1853....
....
....
4.58
4.96
3.94
3.90
4.89
4.05
1.62
13.48
12.84
1833 ...
0.93
1.99
1.10
0.99
5.01
2.45
2.73
2.58
3.20
0.73
1.85
0.76
7 10
7.78
5.78
368
24.34
1854....
1.37
1.96
2.05
2.17
7.05
6.55
6.25
2.26
1.02
0.68
3.53
2.85
1.63
2.54
19.85
4.16
8.01
5.96
37.98
Mean . .
2.92
5.10
4.46
4.74
3.^
4.47
3.01
3 43
3.49 t
2.53
12.48
13.03
9.93
6.66
42.10
FORT GIBSON, INDIAN TERRITORY.
1836...
1837...
1838. .
1839...
1840...
1841...
1842...
1843...
1844...
1845...
....
....
3.01
1.00
1.90
4.30
0.80
0.20
1 01
1.20
t
2.36
1.45
1.35
2.10
4.08
1.20
1.40
12.55
3.23
0.60
4.90
2.35
1.10
1 00
0.30
4.10
7.40
0.70
1.31
2.71
0.76
6.07
1.91
9.62 ;
1.36
0.80
2.95
8.08 !
4.45
4.11
1.10
10.13
3 83
5.40
2.59
8.46
2.01
6.10
3.04
4.65
3.30
2.09
4.75
3.32
3.15
3.18
3.10
5.90
8.04
3.05
2.46
0.50
6.72
0.53
0.80
1.06
0.52
....
2.36
1
9.10
7.10
0.84
0.81
8.50
1.41
2.56
2.43
4.50 ,
2.60
3.63
0.60
1.81
3.30
8.18
2.11
2.15
0.64
1.9S
0.76
3.28
1 1.45
1.63
1.44
3.49
2.08
3.30
2.82
1.40
3.91
8.15
1.20
1.94
0.87
0.85
1.20
0.40
1.92
2.50
2.0O
1.20
2.60
0.90
0.08
0.03
10.65
6.31
4.55
24.08
10.08
9.80
6.61
19.99
13.04
9.06
3.90
11.34
6.06
11.00
13.80
5.77
3.26
13.17
10.54
5.70
13.33
15 08
3 61
6.20
4.91
5 78
4.41
3.93
6.31
7.38
5 03
4 70
9.00
6.91
3.19
34.66
18.81
53.83
36.25
39.11
35.6L
37.58
36.67
576
SEKIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
FORT GIBSON, INDIAN TEERITOBY— Continued.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
Juno.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
■Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1846....
1.02
1.54
1.79
3.04
4.60
6.93
70
1.40
4.76
0.67
2.53
4.88
9.43
9.02
7.96
7.44
33.85
1847....
0.10
2.12
1.42
3.10
1.35
3.86
1.69
1.78
0.95
3.10
3.35
1.06
5.87
7.55
7.40
3.28
24.10
1848....
1.05
o.ao
3.12
5.21
4.52
4.50
6.98
0.00
0.35
5.25
1.90
4.65 '
12.85
11.48
7.50
5.90
37.73
1849....
2 19
0.88
4.90
2.17
7.52
9.17
8.72
3.70
2.05
4.05
4.40
2.90
14 59
21.59
10.50
5.97
52.65
1850....
1.40
3.17
4.91
4.73
0.37
4.58
1.00
3.00
0.35
3.75
4.75
3.00
10.00
8.50
8.85
7.57
35.00
1851....
0.50
10.42
1.50
0.50
3.20
6.45
1.35
1.15
3.14
9.35
7.10
7.70
5.20
5.85
19.59
18.82
52.46
1852....
1.58
5.67
2.24
2.95
6.72
5.85
6.12
4.99
4.38
5.50
4.91
0.74
11.91
16.96
14.79
7.99
51.65
1853....
0.83
2.27
1.06
3.52
6.65
1.60
0.76
4.72
1.35
1.13
1.30
0.70
11.23
7.08
3.78
3.79
25.68
1854....
0.30
1.43
7.83
3.16
7.67
2.80
0.21
0.33
0.68
1.58
2.06
0.77
18.66
3.34
4.32
2.50
28.82
Mean...
1.83
2.26
2.54
4.19
4.65
4.30
2.75
2.63
2.30
3.85
3.10
2.06
11.38
9.68
9.25
6.15
36.46
FORT SCOTT, MISSOURI, (KANSAS.)
1843. ..
4.98
0.20
1.75
4.46
6.10
8.46
5.34
3.30
4.42
0.69
3.38
1.45
12.31
17.10
8.49
6.63
44.53
1844....
2.05
1.30
3.78
6.91
14.79
12.64
10.50
2.51
3.33
2.49
1.52
0.78
25.48
25.65
7.34
4.13
62.60
1645....
0.70
2.33
0.94
5.39
8.16
24.56
4.57
7.18
3.35
3.05
0.97
0.39
14.49
36.31
7.37
3.42
61.59
1846....
1.27
0.92
1.61
2.64
1.76
7.03
1.17
3.09
5.53
2.56
2.97
3.49
6.01
11.29
11.06
5.68
34,04
1847....
1,25
1.24
1.10
4.22
3.12
4.63
5.64
1.79
1.50
2.48
556
1.61
8.44
12.26
11.15
4.10
35.95
1W8....
0.94
0.25
2.53
1.96
7.33
1.85
4.84
4.20
1.19
1.72
0.27
2.17
11.82
10.89
3.16
3.36
29.25
1849....
3.26
0.18
3.30
5.38
12.20
3.49
5.77
2.62
0.56
3.86
3.78
1.03
20.88
11.88
8.20
4.27
33.23
1830....
1.59
1.52
2.40
3.13
2.19
4.60
0.27
5.45
0.52
1.56
4.39
2.21
7.72
10.52
6.45
5.32
30.01
1851....
0.14
3.60
0.48
0.75
4.39
7.53
2.74
3.89
0.15
2.01
5.49
1.84
5.62
14.16
7.65
4.98
32.41
1852....
2.22
0.11
0.98
2.17
10.74
6.36
4.45
2.90
2.40
6.23
5.98
1.98
13.89
13.71
14.61
4.31
46.53
1853....
2.68
1.30
0.82
....
....
....
....
Mean...
1.92
1.18
1.79
3.70
7.08
8.13
4.55
3.69
2.30
2.66
3.43
1.69
12.57
16 37
8.39
4.79
42.12
JEFFERSON BARRACKS, MISSOURI.
1840....
....
....
4.97
12.25
5.16
5.79
1.28
0.55
12.23
1841....
2 06
1.03
4.58
4.39
1.95
1.34
1.88
2.51
1.99
6.76
4.08
3.68
10.92
5.63
12.83
6.79
36.27
1842....
0.44
3.46
2.93
2 02
4.81
5.81
1.77
1.90
0.66
2.03
1.58
1.77
9.76
9.48
4.27
5.67
29.18
1843....
2.27
1.75
2.30
4.52
3.01
2.12
2.60
0.97
5.76
1.65
4.16
1.47
9.63
5.69
11.57
5.49
32.58
1844....
2.19
2.33
2.50
3.13
7.27
5.40
5.23
0.71
1.80
1 06
1.46
1.19
12.90
11.33
3.32
5.71
33.27
1845....
1.18
0.84
3.24
1.71
3.25
9.78
3.89
4.53
1.71
0.63
La^j
0.80 ;
7.30
18.20
3.69
2.82
32.01
1846....
3.60
1.02
1.73
4.83
3.50
2.86
0.45
2.09
3.47
0.82
1.42
10.22
7.58
5.40
5.71
14.86
33.55
1847. ..
....
3.12
....
4.10
4.47
0.85
....
....
0.23
1848....
1.83
0.92
1.94
1.50
2.58
7.33
4.01
4.25
2.90
1.55
2.28
4.01
6.02
15.59
6.73
6.76
35.10
1849....
3.41
0.37
2.77
1.53
2.00
5.85
7.70
4.72
4.84
1.85
2.02
1.52
6.30
18.27
8.71
5.30
38.58
1850....
1.65
3.22
4.66
5.02
3.46
1.52
2.95
5.20
2.75
1.75
4.11
3.32
13.14
9.67
8.61
8.19
39.61
1851....
0.40
5.05
1.86
2.80
3.97
5.64
4.65
7.06
0.81
2.26
0.38
1.25
8.63
17.35
3.45
6.70
38.13
18K!....
3.34
1.73
7.19
1.39
8.12
11.85
2.72
3 24
2.97
4.81
3.80
3.97
16.70
17.81
11.58
9.04
55.13
1853 ...
0.57
1.51
0.85
3.53
3.52
3.19
6.90
7.08
4.20
1.10
2.40
1.23
7.90
17.17
7.70
3.31
36.08
1854....
1.90
3.25
6.90
3.40
6.98
4.19
0.96
1.47
3.41
6.57
3.13
1.11
17.28
6.62
13.11
6.26
43.27
Mean...
1.91
2.04
3.32
3.0S
4.18
5.0-
3 67
4.14
2.88
2.76
2.S8
2.42
10.56
ia.R8
8.02
6.37
37.83
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
577
ST. LOUIS ARSENAL, MISSOURI.
Jan.
Fib.
Slarch.
1
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
SpriDg.
t
Summer
Autumn.
Winter
Year.
1S30....
....
8.66
6.51
5.90
2.59
4.20
5.02
12.69
1S37....
0.70
l.OS
3.48
1.40
3.00
2.77
4.07
3.10
2.83
1.15
1.60
1.70
T.80
9.94
5.63
2.48
25.55
1S33....
3.70
2.05
1.19
2.00
1.53
3.C3
2.00
3.80
1.00
O.40
1.73
0.80
4.77
9.43
3.18
0.74
24.17
1359....
1.4:3
2.40
2. 30
3.14
7.40
7 21
5.19
1.50
2.40
12.84
13.90
1540....
0.52
1.21
3.58
....
....
2.68
2.81
O.ai
l.OS
1S41...
l.U
0.11
5.70
3.57
1.20
3.93
3.03
1.93
2.50
7.43
5.45
3.C8
10.47
9.51
15.88
4 23
39. Gl
ISW....
1.94
1.80
2 29
4.64
4.95
3.53
4.13
0.76
2.C3
1.50
2.. 50
1.51
11. SS
8.42
6.C2
4.74
31. CG
1S44....
4.83
3.76
3.22
5.57
11. C3
7.54
8.10
1.47
0.C3
2.63
0.50
2.33
19.82
17.11
3.21
10.97
51.11
1S45....
I.IS
1.74
4 04
3.67
3.f5
13.75
0.C3
7.45
0.59
1.91
173
0.41
10. 7C
21 .23
4.23
8 27
39.«
ISlC...
2.20
2.19
3.(0
7.59
5.97
4.94
1.21
O.GS
0.23
4.82
4.19
13.55
10.61
6.83
14.79
17.94
56.17
1S4T....
1.79
3.r.9
4..34
8.25
5 93
11 47
5.30
0.74
2.S7
lO.CT
10.03
1.14
1S.54
17.51
28.02
C.02
C5.C9
1843....
0.96
2 96
6.50
2.93
9.9t
13.96
5.56
3.31
1.13
4.32
1.91
5.27
18.43
27.83
7.41
9.1D
62. SO
1S49....
7.59
0.55
8. CD
4.08
6.59
15.70
13.67
7.93
8 96
2.S0
3 83
1.90
14.07
87.32
10.11
10.04
71.51
1530....
2.C9
3.00
4. 89
5. 85
8.41
0.17
8.CS
1.17
2.20
2.45
4.63
2.17
14.15
4.42
9.30
7.26
35.13
1S31....
0.23
7.81
1.73
3.8,1
2.20
3.81
1.89
6.40
0.63
1.51
280
a. 90
7.31
11. 6J
4.99
10.55"
34.43
1S5-2....
1.21
1.43
8.00
2.54
444
7.82
1.C8
2.12
114
4.73
2.73
2. 93
14.93
11. C2
8.62
S.S9
49 21
ISoS....
0.53
2.13
0.90
3.68
2.85
3.6(1
4.15
4.95
3.60
1.10
0.S5
0.35
7.43
12.70
5.55
3.CG
23.71
1354....
05
1.93
2.40
3.37
7.10
4.30
4.65
2.20
1.70
1.48
1.35
3.00
1.43
0.90
16. P5
533
5 70
3.95
81. C8
Mean. . .
1
3.82
4.16
4.83
6.94
4.00
8.15
2. S3
3.23
3.10
1 9D
12 5C
14.(9
8. 71
C 20
41 03
DETROIT B.'VRRACKS, MICHIG.AN.
1336....
....
4.05
4.61
5.10
5.12
1.47
8.73
2. 03
1.24
1.55
11. C9
12.10
1
1S37....
1.65
0.3J
3 31
1.55
1.42
3.10
2.49
8.23
2.33
2.03
4.35
0.95
6.27
8.75
9.31
2.90
27.22
1S33....
4.21
1.00
55
4.25
2.00
656
1.95
0.15
4.83
5.85
29.84
1839....
2.00
1 43
5.15
2.21
0.70
6.10
1 23
1.00
1.93
0,93
1.23
0.50
8.C5
8.83
4.t3
8.9J
24 IS
1S4D....
1.74
1.75
4,62
3 34
2.23
1.83
3. 83
1.25
2.69
1.93
2.75
1.63
10.21
6.93
7.37
5.12
29.93
1841....
2.59
0.13
2.09
3 00
3.73
1.C9
1.C7
1.33
4.37
0.86
2.83
8.24
9.47
4.56
7.12
6.01
27.1G
1842....
0.61
1.63
3.53
3.49
0.49
4.01
7.12
1.23
8.96
3.r,8
2.01
1.69
7.56
12.25
S.(.5
3.93
31.54
1843....
1.91
1.99
1.85
2.05
3.16
5.36
2.35
1.46
2.23
1.93
1.31
2.07
7.CG
9.20
5.41
5.93
27 C4
1S44....
2.25
0.61
2.60
3.85
5.63
5.13
4.49
3.27
1.03
1.85
1.84
0.95
11.63
12.94
4.72
3.81
33.10
1S45....
1.71
' 0.63
1.89
3.29
1.03
2.80
1.92
1.83
3.S2
l.CO
1.53
0.53
6.21
5.54
6.92
2.S4
21.51
1846....
4.06
2.13
8.15
1.63
5.42
3.55
.. .
10.25
1849....
2. SI
1.01
2.57
2. 90
2.10
3.96
2.85
4.35
3.25
0.00
1.82
0.93
7.57
10. G6
11.07
4.19
a3.49
1653....
1.53
1.56
8.81
2.00
0.29
2.65
2.85
3.56
2.11
1.11
2.36
1.49
6. IS
9. CO
5.53
4.63
23.41
1551....
1.24
8.63
1,37
3.70
5..30
10.43
Mean. ..
2.1b
1.33
2.86
2.92
2.73
3.91
8.211
2.18
3.31
2.04
2.06
1.30
8.51
9.29
7.41
4.86
33.07
FORT GRATIOT, MICHIGAN.
1.24
1836...
1S37...
18.39.. ..; ....
1340. ...I 2.59
1341 ..., 2.86
lS12....i 2.2$
2.60
0.63
9.11
S. OG—
1.01
2.87
4 13
-73
1.70
4.23
2.41
4.14
2.56
2.36
1.49
2. SO
4.43
4.65
5.07
5.19
3.93
6.27
2.C4
8.45
1.09
4.66
2.20
1.25
4.15 3.76
3.73 1.44
6.46 j 4.33
7.91 1.14
7.20 I 2.S4
2.68
1.43
2.20
1.43
3.53
8.02
1
....
8.44
1.26
1.59
7.S9
2.73 '
6.77
1.60 ;
11.12
15 33
9.49
9.77
10.59
6 60
13.99
G73
10.47
G.22
13.63
6.05 i
42.93
33.93
39.63
578
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
FORT GRATIOT, MICHIGAN— Continued.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
Msy.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer. Autumn.
Winter.
Year.
1848....
2 72
2.G4
2.23
2.15
1.6S
4.06
2. OS
1.82
8.55
2.73
2.12
1.68
C.06
7.96
8.40
7.04
29.46
1S«....
2.78
1.75
2.77
0.99
6.05
8.95
8.68
4.99
1.8S
2.6S
2.43
1.89
8.81
12.57
6.49
5.87
88.74
1S45....
2.95
1.16
2.62
2.31
1.88
2.78
1.67
2.16
4.30
2.44
1.88
0.72
6.76
6.66
8.8"
4.83
20.72
1846....
2. 97
1.61
2.17
2.19
4.65
2.35
....
....
....
8.91
1849...
....
1.80
4.70
1.12
4.20
0.96
1.66
6.28
1S50....
1.35
1.02
3.19
2.61
1.02
4.79
8.06
1.80
1.73
1.01
2.19
1.98
6.42
9.65
4.98
4.35
25.75
1851....
1.11
1.77
1.25
2,51
5.86
1.50
8.38
8.56
8.46
2.64
8.25
2.06
9.12
8.89
9.85
4.91
81.77
1652....
1.28
1.36
4.57
2.84
0.94
....
....
....
....
....
....
7.85
8 02
M«3n ..
2.19
1.76
2.82
2.51
2.69
8.74
8. 37
2.88
4.10
2.66
2.10
1.80
9.99
8.66
5.75
83.62
FORT MACKINAC, MICHIGAN.
1886....
....
....
2.81
1.92
2.48
2. 61
2.47
1.84
T.76
1SS7...
1.75
1.09
1.70
....
....
....
18J4....
....
1.45
1.19
1845....
2.05
1.05
1.18
0.71
0.93
1.26
2.83
1.08
5.15
1.56
1.78
0.80
2.81
5.17
8.46
3.40
19.84
1846....
1.29
0.26
1.77
2.01
8.27
0.89
0.94
1.23
1.43
1.13
2.14
1.20
7.05
8.11
4.70
2.75
IT. 61
1847....
1.28
0.81
1.16
1.48
4.03
2.97
2. IS
1.82
3.40
0.84
8.10
0.53
6.67
6.97
6.64
2.67
23.15
1848....
1.80
0.82
0.88
1.36
2.16
....
4.85
1S49....
0.64
0.27
0.40
1.99
2.60
1.20
2.69
5.11
1.60
1.70
1.48
0.51
4.99
9.20
4.73
1.42
20.84
1850....
0.87
0.06
0.32
0.73
0.60
1.68
5.05
4.10
5.. 52
6.05
3.15
0.40
1.58
10.83
18.72
0.83
26.91
1S51....
0.80
0.59
0.41
O.GS
1.28
1.91
8.60
0.56
0.50
0.65
0.48
0.85
2.82
6.08
1.58
1.74
11.70
1852....
....
2.52
0.76
1.40
8.94
0.63
8.46
5.97
1858....
0.51
2.05
2.12
0.85
8.55
6.23
3.66
7.81
5.01
1.73
0.98
2.87
6.62
17.60
7.67
5.48
7.22
1S54....
2.50
1.28
1.56
1.04
2.65
6.85
5.67
4.26
3.22
2 28
8.66
0.98
5.25
16.28
9.16
4.80
85.49
Mean ..
1.25
0.82
1.14
1.21
2.82
2.81
3.20
2.87
2.97
2.12
1.92
1.24
4.67
8.88
T.Ol
8.31
28.87
FORT BRADY, MICHIGAN.
1886....
....
....
....
....
5.51
2.86
6.80
2.93
4.67
8.24
18.95
1S.37....
1.06
1.15
2.19
1.32
8.63
3.66
4.02
5.15
4.97
4 18
8.11
1.89
7.19
18.43
12.21
4.09
36.92
1883....
2.64
0.82
1.18
2.55
2.43
2.52
2.84
6.87
4.49
8.70
4.40
0.88
6.21
11.78
12.59
8.84
84.37
1839....
1.78
0.54
1.89
0.43
0.47
4.07
1.53
2.88
4.29
4.25
1.78
0.70
2.79
T.98
10.82
2,97
24.01
1340....
1.73
2.19
0.82
2.73
1.16
2.16
2.95
4.63
6.46
8.57
8.67
2.68
4.20
9.74
12.70
6.45
83.09
1841....
1.60
0.98
....
1.04
1.99
2.18
2.41
1.05
4.40
1.10
8.79
2.80
6 59
9.29
4.83
22.74
1642....
2.51
1.47
1.43
1.83
1.42
8.77
2. SI
1.C6
8.60
2.66
8.88
1.16
4.18
7.64
9.44
5.14
26.40
1S43....
2.07
1.06
0,0S
1.45
2.42
8.14
2.58
0.41
8.00
6.72
3.19
1.58
4 55
6.08
11,91
4.T1
27.25
1844....
1.96
0.48
1.66
8.07
2.87
4.26
2,24
4.93
4.81
2.18
860
2.49
T.60
11.48
10.49
4,68
84.45
1S4S....
1.66
1.88
2.20
2.26
2.19
1.48
4.86
8.94
2.64
8.95
1 87
1.28
6.74
9.73
8.47
4.82
29.76
1S4G....
1.01
0.94
2.51
2.65
2.03
0.95
....
....
4.18
8.90
2.65
2.00
7.19
10,68
8.95
1847....
1.58
0.80
1.00
2.00
3.00
8.85
8.79
8.88
5.71
1.20
2.62
.2.83
6.00
10.97
9.53
4.11
30.61
1848....
1.92
1.88
0.97
1.80
4.14
....
6.41
1S50....
1.88
0.S8
1.S3
2.15
0.70
2.92
8.16
4.09
4.90
4.00
1.85
2.91
4.68
15.16
10.25
5.67
85.66
1851....
2,74
1.2S
0.84
2.23
3.11
2.91
,1.99
.•5.67
4.83
4.04
6.13
7.55
6. IS
12,57
14, 9S
11,57
45.30
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
579
FORT BRADY, MICHIGAN— Continued.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
Jane.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer. Autumn.
Winter.
Yea'r.
1S32...
4.11
1.42
2.99
1S53....
0.92
1.19
0.43
0.73
0.74
8.94
8.27
3.19
2.61
2.16
1.77
0.74
1.95
10.40
«.54'
2.85
21 74
1S54....
2.49
1.18
1.84
2.14
.3.61
1.23
3.21
8.86
3.13
8.40
3.07
0.43
7.09
8.30
9.63
4.12
29.16
1
Mean ..| 1.84
1.18
1.87
1.83
2.24
2. S3
8.75
3.89
4.83
8.85
8. OS
2.21
5.44
9.97
10.70
3.18
31.85
FORT HOWARD, WISCONSIN.
1886....
1SS7....
1-.3S....
1S39....
IHO....
ISll....
1850....
1S51....
1852....
0.5O
1.23
1.97
2.03
0.30
O.oS
1.12
1.77
1.64
0.S3
0.53
l.OS
0.80
0.89
1.50
0.66
3.20
1.81
0.14
1.83
0.26
1.C9
0.78
3.87
6.87
8.53
8.41
2.4S
4.17
2.U
1.53
2.97
6.20
6.48
1.54
8.79
1.69
2.46
3.50
2.15
8.50
4.31
6.77
4.05
7.29
5.48
4.92
3.15
5.06
6.67
7.08
8.85
5.86
6.34
5.07
2.07
4.25
6.66
2.69
8.79
6,94
2.67
4.78
5.04
8.86
0.77
1.25
2.69
8.26
1.59
1.17
3.29
3.26
3.03
1.10
1.10
2.01
2.89
2.58
2.25
2.05
2.59
2.20
1.72
2.69
1.23
1.63
0.50
0.95
0.23
14.77
11.82
3.09
8.12
6.12
10.86
8.99
10.63
14.28
19.46
10.09
16.94
18.20
10.89
8.88
9.70
9.28
8.28
6.32
6.88
<
6.62
8.86
4.80
8.78
4.79
1.10
2.90
87.64
40.35
87.56
81.23
83.57
81.47
Mean ..
1.19 ' 0.87
1.70
3.33
8.97
4.93
5.51
4.01
3.11
2.86
2.87
1.80
9.00
14.45
7.84 8.36
34.65
FORT WINNEBAGO, WISCONSIN.
FORT CRAWFORD, WISCONSIN.
ISSC...
0.16
4.58
0.7T
1.23
1.77
6.37
1537....
0.48
0.91
0.25
2.41
8.13
4.80
5.66
2.89
5.39
0.79
3.23
1.35
5.82
18.85
9.41
2.74
81.82
1S33....
2.03
0.20
0.08
2.93
0.36
2.40
7.67
5.35
2.64
1.49
1.77
0.41
3.92
15.42
5.90
2.64
27.88
18.39....
0.92
0.47
0.79
1.34
3.59
4.53
0.83
4.83
1.48
8.14
1.27
0.76
6.22
9.74
10.34
2.15
28.95
1840....
0.80
1.17
0.43
1.46
2.03
3.71
5.79
3.47
1.45
4.03
2.63
0.C5
8.97
13.97
8.16
2.02
28. IS
1S41....
0.18
0.43
1 54
1.49
1.51
6.45
8.70
8.79
6.53
1.25
0.65
1.93
4.34
12.94
8.83
2.59
23.45
1S42....
0.84
0.56
1 71
1.85
1.17
5.04
8.24
2.14
3.45
0.21
3.12
1.13
4.78
10.43
6.73
8.68
S4.51
1S43....
0.73
0.62
0.39
2.14
4.18
4.07
1.20
1.22
4.41
0.60
2.67
0.63
6.71
6.49
7.63
1.92
23.80
1844....
1.51
0.S8
1.33
3 52
4.07
5.40
5.16
2.73
0.73
1.66
1.73
14.68
6.03
8.84
1345....
0.67
2.49
8.10
2.67
1.46
4.09
4.37
1.53
....
7.88
9.99
Mean ..
0.91
0.82
1.07
2.26
2.25
4.24
4.21
3.01
3.63
2.00
2.01
1.09
5.53
11.46
7.63
2.82
27.49
1336....
.. .,
• •••
8.60
1.10
3.20
2.30
6.40
1.80
0.60
1.60
6.60
8.20
1837....
0.40
2.70
2.90
8.00
1.40
4.41)
1.33
8.65
T.18
1.16
2.61
2.92
7.80
9.88
10.35
6 02
84.05
13:33....
1.80
0.00
0.45
8.57
1.03
2 17
1.5S
5.63
2.76
1.66
1.44
0.32
6.05
9.43
3.36
1.63
21.96
1339....
1.72
1.26
2.07
0.54
5.10
1.67
6.8i)
4.95
5.05
1.90
1.00
3.87
12.97
11.90
&1.46
1340....
1.40
1.00
0.20
8.63
2.75
2.57
2.97
6.91
1.90
5.85
1.96
0.12
6.67
12.45
9.71
2.53
8i.es
1S41....
0.19
0.47
5.76
2.04
1.75
3.36
7.75
3.65
2.45
1.21
0.14
3.23
9.53
13.79
8.80
S.94
31.05
1812....
1.29
1.18
2.00
4.08
6.20
7.03
1.00
6.43
3.53
0.03
8.47
2.00
12.28
14.31
7.13
4.42
SS.Sl
134-3....
0.70
0.98
0.33
1.60
2.83
3.10
2.20
4.18
4.90
1.83
2.83
0.47
6.00
9.*3
9.05
2.10
25.53
1344....
2.60
0.87
1.42
8.56
4.71
4.01
8.81
6 06
2.46
0.76
1.42
2.3*
9.69
18.83
4.64
S.S5
89.06
1S43 ...
l.IO
2.79
2.78
3.86
2.40
5.80
8.90
1.35
...
....
8.49
10.75
Mean .. 1.19
1.24
1.92.
2.99
2.72
8.74
S.43
4.05
4.06
2.04
1.80
1.57
7.63
11.87
-
7.90
4.00
31.40
580
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF HAIN.
FORT ATKINSON, IOWA.
FORT DES MOLNES, IOWA.
Jan.
l\b.
.Marcli.
Apiil.
Jliiy.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sep!.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring Summer. Autumn.' Winter.
1
Year.
ISll...
• ••>
>.••
5.65
6.83
10.14
6.09
2.85
l.Sl
0S6
1.11
21.11
6.02
1313...
0.43
*].(»
1.90
2.33
8.23
7.43
7.21
5.07
8.27
1.22
0.15
0.35
8.C2 . 19.76
4.64
2.41
84.83
ISIO...
l.CO
0.03
8.12
0.53
li.83
....
....
. 15.98
Mean .
O.Tl
0.S3
2.51
4. 03
5.00
0.03
8.07
5.CS
2.81
1.61
0.60
0.73
12.22 1 20.48
4.83
2.27
89.74
1811....
....
....
....
1S15....
1.00
1.82
1.42
3.83
l.Cl
1310....
0.90
0.05
0.C2
....
....
Mean ..
0.07
1.V2
3.83
l.Cl
7.66
6.60
3.52
0.61
O.SS
2.01
2.84
4.13
3.04
8.68
1.00
0.82
2.25
0.82
G.86
6.86
8.35
10.98
4.00
8.87
2C.6C
FORT SXELLl.NG, MINNESOTA.
1S30...
1857...
1S3S...
1S39...
ISIO...
isa ..
lSl-2...
1S13...
1311...
1813...
1310...
1817...
1SI3...
1819...
1355...
1851...
1352 ..
1353...
1354...
1555...
Mean .
0.27
0.33
0.C5
0.70
1.34
0.30
0.49
0.49
0.24
0.21
0.95
0.72
1.15
1.46
1.50
0.72
0.49
1.40
0.52
0.03
29
0,11
0.C2
1.13
1.00
O.Cl
1.67
0.83
0.20
0.18
0.C6
0.14
0.00
0.01
0.72
0.03
1.C7
0.41
0.73
0.52
0.33
0.15
0.71
0.C3
1.43
0.44
0.82
0.97
2.8:)
1.71
0.41
1.71
4.11
2 23
1.23
2.C4
0.C3
l.CO
l.Sl
0.95
2.41
2.71
1.55
1.40
2.05
3.C5
8.28
2.31
1.50
2.17
l.CS
0.75
8.12
5.16
4.50
3.15
1.51
2.90
2.00
0.45
4.96
0.18
5.28
6.63
6.57
2.00
0.57
2.63
8.96
2.49
4.73
0.73
4.08
2.51
4.30
0.28
1.23
2.14 3.17
3.46
4.70
1.80
8.50
4.24
3.73
5.23
l.«
0.S9
8.10
2.66
2.83
3.14
4.02
2.W
O.tS
7.59
3.31
2.88
3.03
5.55
1.82
3.08
1.04
8.40
1.17
4.81
1.84
4.37
8.28
3.83
2.49
3.19
9.60
2.97
8.29
0.89
2.57
1.75
4. 11
S.18
4.45
5.10
0.71
1.61
2.33
6.10
4.83
5.14
4.26
2.21
2.33
4.00
2.46
2.75
1.82
3.64
0.73
2.14
0.55
8.33
0.55
3.15
0.10
2.11
2.21
1.55
0.50
0.97
0.00
2.45
0.87
0.68
5.85
0.82
1.13
0.83
0.01
1.23
0.70
1.87
0.43
1.00
8.22
0.84
3.46
1.43
0.77
0.40
2.10
l.Tl
0.10
1.40
1.03
2.81
I 0.22
0.56
0.00
0.63
2.84
0.43
1.07
0.13
1.42
0.63
0.27
0.53
0.08
0.21
0.66
0.40
1.93
0.04
0.05
0.15
1.11
0.64
8.98
5.21
6.70
4.51
4.88
4.29
4.69
10.68
7.46
6.61
6.85
7.17
16.30
5.40
7.87
9.23
4.83
7.84
3.33
1.33
1.81
0.67
7.51
18.95
G.St
9.79
6.93
10.83
9.25
10.81
12.01
11.83
8.31
10.02
20.33
13.74
8.04
3.71
11.81
8.93
5.70
9.02
1.80
5.3S
7.76
8.49
7.07
5.90
3.27
6.83
6.03
3.24
9.60
3. S3
7.13
1.76
2.71
8.8S
2.96
1.80
2.77
1.11
1.87
2.27
2.88
2.83
1.97
0.70
1.06
2.15
8.56
2.54
0.38
0.35
1.12
1.39
10.92
6.93
1.92
24.02
22.22
21.19
23.00
21.67
23.C9
33.14
25.34
26 10
21.83
28.18
49.69
25.50
23.43
15.07
20.47
26.59
25.43
FORT
RIPLEY, (GAINES
,) MINNESOTA.
l^:.o ...
1.30
0.01
1.03
2.07
1.52
6.00
11.93
2.51
1.77
1.45
3.65
0.51
5.24
20.43
6.87
2.73
85.82
1851....
1.41
0.24
0.26
0.97
5.66
5.50
....
8.15
8.74
1.93
2.82
0.86
: 6.79
13.49
2.01
13-.2....
0.13
0.42
6.61
2.37
8.9G
2.10
3.93
1.87
6.40
1.27
3.10
2.S7
12.94
7.39
10.77
3.43
34.53
isr.J....
0.18
0.34
l.OG
1.31
1.43
8.73
4.85
2.64
3.31
0.93
1.18
0.G3
3.82
15.71
5.44
1.15
20.13
1331....
0.C7
0.03
0.79
0.97
4rt4
8.63
0.G2
1.69
4.49
0.91
0.24
0.15
0.10
5.99
6.55
0.S5
IS. 49
1353....
1.41
O.SO
0.23
1.12
0.80
1.03
4.83
....
2.20
3.10
Uiia ..
0.87
.
1.80
1.42
8.09
5.15
6.20
2.27 4.92
1.80
e.9o
6.81
12.62
8.42
2.18
29.48
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
581
FORT LEAVENWORTH, KANSAS.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
1
Dec.
Spring.
Summer.
Autumn.
Winter.
Year.
1336....
....
....
....
1.80
4.23
3.41
5.90
6.45
0.87
1.64
0.73
13.54
S.96
issr....
o.u
2.73
2.76
1.03
3.32
6.20
4.2J
1.00
7. SO
8.40
2.70
2.60
7.71
11.40
13.90
5.44
88.45
1S.33....
1.80
1.00
1.90
1.80.
2.60
6.13
2.18
6.66
0.80
0.40
1.81
0.20 1
5.80
14.97
2.81
3.00
26.88
IS3D....
1.08
0.78
1.98
8.99
3.51
5.29
5.12
1.95
0.70
6.05
1.29
1.63
9.43
12.86
8.10
8.38
83.82
1840....
0.73
0.74
1.27
2.02
8.34
6.62
2.65
4.93
8.43
3.89
1.60
0.23
7.23
14.25
8.97
1.69
82.14
1841....
0.04
0.23
1.91
4.88
0.56
2.95
2.60
2.83
5.62
8.25
0.05
6.85
7.73
0.82
1S42....
0.01
0.60
0.99
2.84
1.39
5.C5
3.15
6.06
1.02
0.26
8.22
1.10
6.22
14.86
4.50
1.71
26.29
1843....
0.12
0.10
1.85
5.53
2.29
0.52
0.57
0.13
8.19
1.04
0.05
1.C5
9.17
1.22
4.23
1.37
15.94
1844....
0.50
1.60
3.40
8.20
8.53
12.00
8.08
4.80
1.60
0.40
8.62
0.89
15.13
24. 8S
6.62
2.49
48.12
1845....
O.GO
2.20
0.73
2.40
2.30
15.60
0.01
1.70
6.70
1.8D
0.32
0.00
5.43
17.61
8.82
2.80
S4.S6
1816....
0.40
0.20
1.10
8.90
8.20
4.16
2.01
0.08
3. S3
1.03
1.14
2.05
8.20
6. S3
6.05
2.65
23.75
1847.-...
0.69
l.SO
0.43
2.79
7.18
5.15
1.20
0.60
0.82
0.00
0.27
1.15
10.45
6.?5
0.59
3.14
21.03
1818....
1.45
1.40
1.50
0.91
8.50
6.70
3.25
3.05
7.60
0.74
4.33
8.50
6.91
18.06
12.07
6.35
33.00
1S4D....
a. 90
0.6D
3.40
2.40
5.10
2.26
6.03
5. SO
7.56
3.44
2.80
0.50
10.90
14. C9
13. SO
4. 06
42.85
1S53....
1.10
2.21
8.64
1.74
2.32
5.99
1.63
2.27
0.72
0.85
8.84
0.76
! 7.70
9.89
5.41
4.07
27.07
1S51....
0.54
0.96
1.03
1.00
6.40
S.IC
0.73
6.02
1.10
1.63
8.18
1.96
7.43
19.96
7.96
3.46
38.81
1852....
0.90
0.2S
1.85
5.60
4.71
6.53
4.60
4.22
1.61
2.64
8.53
0.60
11.56
15.85
7.7S
1.84
86.53
1853....
0.01
0..30
0.15
2.36
3. 89
5.95
8.21
5.01
1.47
0.52
2.07
0.76
5.90
14.17
4.06
1.07
25.20
1S54....
0.04
1.78
1.83
3.35
5.65
4.50
0.18
1.07
2.11
8.20
1.20
0.09
10.23
5.75
6.51
1.91
24.40
1S35....
0.59
0.20
0.42
0.27
1.93
1.C9
1.70
2.67
Mean . .
0.72
1.01
1.61
2,74
8.62
5.30
3.15
3.29
8.82
1.84
2. IT
1.03
7.97
12.24
T.88
2.75
80.29
FORT DODGE, IOWA.
1S51....
....
....
....
....
1.93
2.69
2.48
2.84
0.71
7.86
1852....
1.09
0.58
1.65
2.16
2.C5
6.16
1.57
0.S9
2.61
4.10
1.93
2.27
5.76 i
7.62
8.53
3.94
25.85 •
1853....
0.20
0.26
1.31
8.92
4.S4
....
10.07
Mean ..
0.65
0.42
1.43
3.04
3.45
5.16
1.57
1.42
2.55
8.26
2.. 38
1.99
7.92 1
8.15
8.19
S.06
27.82
FORT KEAR.NY, NEBRASKA.
1849....
....
....
0.12
7.80
10.74
4.00
7.70
6.05
0.27
l.SO
0.10
0.10
24.-2
17.75
2.17
1330....
0.47
0.06
1.06
1.07
2.83
9.93
5.33
1.66
0.43
0.26
1.57
0.8D
6.01
16.97
2.26
0.88
25.0T
185!....
1.15
0.97
0.14
0.73
9.43
3.50
2.86
2.73
2.60
0.52
1.00
0.76
10.80
9.14
4.13
2.6S
26.44
1832....
0.12
0.25
0.2S
0.78
5.23
8.03
2.69
1.84
2.17
1.83
2.21
0.73
6.24
7.65
5.76
1.10
20.65
1S53....
0.00
0.02
0.08
6.10
8.46
2.47
S.2S
2.21
0.94
0.26
1.00
0.08
14.64
12.96
2.20
0.10
29.90
1S54...
0.23
1.38
1.87
2.56
4.15
5.45
3.51
1.13
4.63
1.07
0.75
0.00
8.53
10.09
6.42
1.56
26.65
1S33....
l.CO
0.23
1.33
0.C3
4.91
2.21
....
0.33
6.94
Mean ..
0.50
0.48
L.-io
2.63
6.67
4.86
5.07
2.62
1.83
0.83
l.ll
10.80
12 C5
3.83
1.31
27.98
582
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
FORT LARAMIE, NEBRASKA.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Not.
See.
Spring.
Summer. Autumn.
Winter.
Year.
1S49....
....
....
....
....
>»••
■ •■•
....
0.21
2.72
0.24
0.38
8.17
1S50....
0.30
0.42
1.81
1.08
1.41
1.40
1.80
0.51
0.22
0.23
0.23
8.75
8.T1
0.72?
1851....
0.16
4.21
0.83
0.82
0.78
0.42
0.36
0.52
0.88
1.48
1.80
1893....
0.72
1.10
1.99
1.25
7.29
4.08
1.88
1.46
2.74
1.70
6.42
1.28
10.09
7.42
10.86
8.09
81.42
1893....
0.03
0.57
1.78
4.68
12.19
4.95
1.86
0.59
2.80
0.63
0.08
0.71
18.50
7.86
8.66
1.86
80.78
1854....
O.IS
0.40
0.80
3. 98
4.46
3.67
3.20
1.27
1.60
1.86
0.73
0.09
9.24
8.20
4.19
0.63
22.20
1855....
0.04
1.06
1.41
0.65
2.79
8.25
1.45
....
....
....
4.65
HesD..
0.2T
0.71
1.87
1.93
6.89
2.95
1.88
0.92
1.88
1.26
1.87
0.69
8.69
6.70
8.96
1.63
19.98
1852....
....
....
....
....
9.10
3.85
0.81
1.89
1.60
12.05
1853....
0.04
0.49
0.96
8.88
934
4.35
0.50
....
....
....
18.63
7.15
2.18
39.01
The last observations, for 1S52 ami 1S53, were at Fort Atkinson^ on the Piaius, crossing of Arkansas river.
FORT ARBUCKLE, INDIAN TERRITORY.
1850....
....
....
....
1.70
6.40
1.25 !
,
1891....
0.01
9.40
0.20
2.71
2.61
2.19
1.65
1.16
l.CO
1.07
8.89
2.85
5.92
4.90
4.06
7.76
22.24?
1892....
1.86
4.21
1.21
1.41
7.80
5.80
9.C9
4.82
6.04
7. 10
2.50
0.12
9.92
15.21
14.66
6.29
46.08
185)....
0.49
1.6S
0.32
1.04
6.31
4.57
8.2T
1.80
8.16
8.82
1.05
0.97
6.67
9.14
7.58
8.34
26.68
1854....
0.01
2.30
3.83
2.98
6.60
4.33
0.00
2.14
2.12
0.59
8.46
0.40
12.91
6.47
6.18
2.71
23.22
1895....
0.20
1.23
0.35
2.28
3.13
8.88
8.60
....
....
....
6.76
Mean ..
0.61
8.01
1.08
2.03
4.99
8.99
2.68
2.85
2.9S
2.76
3.16
1.02
8.19
8.98
8.90
4.54
30.57
FORT BELKNAP, TEXAS.
1852....
....
.. .
....
....
....
....
....
>> > •
5.90
8.19
0.09
1853 ...
0.06
1.83
0.96
2.03
6.19
2.74
2.27
0.12
1.77
4. 89
1.08
1.79
9.18
6.18
7.69
8.14
25.14
1894....
0.11
1.10
1.42
1.75
4.97
8.83
0.00
0.79
1.53
0.59
0.09
0.09
8.14
9.08
2.17
1.26
20.65
1S55....
0.01
0.78
0.10
0.30
3.65
8.15
....
....
8.99
Mean ..
0.06
1.07
0.83
1.86
4.90
4.74
1.14
0.43
1.09
3.79
1.41
0.62
7.09
6.31
6.89
1.75
22.00
FORT WORTH, TEXAS.
1S19....
....
....
....
....
....
....
1.90
1S50 ...
0.60
0.80
1.20
4.70
6.90
7.30
0.50
3.70
0.51
2.24
4.90
5.10
12.80
11.50
7.69
6.00
37.95
1S51...
2.70
10.80
4.66
6.61
9.27
0.22
0.16
0.06
0.06
2.24
4.92
0.79
20.54
0.44
7.22
14.29
42.49
1S52....
1.85
8.79
5.20
1.73
4.27
3.81
3.14
6.41
5. GO
5.40
2.60
0.10
11.10
13.86
18.60
5.20
48.26
1558....
1.60
8.80
8.33
4.18
9.94
3.6a
5.72
0.60
....
13.50
9.92
Mean ..
1.66
4 94
3.61
4.89
6.59
8.73
2.38
2.69
2.06
8.29
4.14
1.97
14.50
8.80
9.49
8.07
40.86
PHANTOM IllLL, (CLEAR FORK OF BRAZOS,) TEXAS.
1852....
1S53....
1S54....
0.52 1.80
0.00 0.80
0.54 0.45 2.85
2.90
1.15
0.08
4.82
0.23
4.81
2.01
2.49
0.28
0.00
1.87
3.84
4.03
12.08
2.52
8.69 1 14.13
Mean ..
0.26 0.89
0.54 : 0.45 2.85 2.90
1.19 0.03
2.55 8.41
1.34
0.94
3.84
4 08
7.80
2.00 17.22
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
583
FORT CHADBOURNE, TEXAS.
1 Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
S«pt.
0:1.
Not.
Dec.
!
SpriDf. jammer.
Autumn.
Winter.
Year.
1S52....
....
....
....
6.25
5.00
5.9S
2.SZ
4.01
3.64
0.80
0.00 1
13.30
8.45
1S53....
0.70
1.25
1.61
0.80
6.48
5.43
2.80
0.85
1.76
2.87
0.19
2.67
8.89
9.13
4.82
4.62
27.4*
1S54....
0.00
0.90
0.4S
0.56
5.76
4.67
1.81
4.30
4.09
3.30
6.80
2.60
6.80
10.28
13.69
3.50
84.27
1S55....
1.10
2. SO
0.15
3.35
6.83
3.81
9.83
Mean ..
0.60
1.53
0.73
1.57
6.20
4.61
3.36
2.49
8.29
8.27
2.4:J
1.76
5.52 10.46
1
8.99
3.91
31.83
FORT GRAHAM, TEXAS.
1S50....
1331....
1S52 ...
ISoS....
1.80
0.64
1.S8
1.85
6.86 1 3.63
5.25 ' 8.75
3.61 4.4S
4.25
7.SS
4.00
2.0O
2.57
8.05
2.65
3.33
4.83
0.32
3.68
2.00
l.SO
0.11
4.90
2.08
3.95
0.21
8.76
0.82
0.60
0.26
1.53
8.77
5.25
8.69
1.09
7.40
5.70
11.08
4.40
81
8.17 10.28
14.56 0.64
16.80 12.34
!
1 9.88 1 4.40
1
5.46
12.91
10.92
13.26
6.20
41.87
44 76
Mean.. 1.42 5.24 4.55
4.53
2.90
2.71
2.15 2.06
0.80
4.24
4.73
5.25
11.93 1 6.02
9.77 11.91
40.53
FORT GROG HAN, TEXAS.
1S49....
....
....
3.70
3.00
0.40
1.20
1.80
1.40
0.90
T.IO
3.90
1350....
1.00
0.90
8.10
3.40
5.00
5.60
1.60
0.69
0.45
0.28
1.02
2.56
11 50
7.89 1
1.75
4.46
25.60
1351....
1.09
5.01
8.54
7.05
1.06
1.06
2.99
1.00
1.35
8.52
9.80
7.40
11.65
5.05
14.67
13.50
44.87
1852....
1.70
6.00
9.18
2.79
2.21
8.78
8.75
8.09
5.96
3.35
8.33
0.57
14.18
10.62
12.64
7.27
44.71
1853....
1.97
6.52
8.07
2.28
8.78
2.52
5.59
0.20
....
....
....
9.18
8.31 1
Mean ..
1.44
4.61
4.72
3.8S
8.01
8.3-3
3.39
1.03
2.24
2.11
3.S9
2.86
11.61
7. SO
8.24
8.91
36.56
FORTS MARTIN SCOTT, MASON, TERRETT, AND McKAVETT, TEXAS.
1850....
1.07
0.69
1.57
4.60
8.45
10.28
1.71
0.87
1.13
0.99
8. 87
2.74
9.62
12.86
6.04
S.SO
83.52
1851....
0.78
5.14
8.43
8.87
1.18
0.03
0.80
1.20
1.44
1.15
1.50
1.00
13.08
2.08
4.09
6.67
26.07
1862....
0.60
0.80
8.10
12.40
....
....
....
....
....
Mean ..
2.93
5.82
6.4S
2.31
5.18
1.25
0.78
1.81
1.07
2.65
1 87
14.61
7.21
5.06
5.65
82.58
M. 1853.
....
....
1.90
8.94
3.46
6.6i
1.54
4.70
2.54
1.50
0.01
11.64
7.74
1853.
1.04
9.01
1.52
2.89
1.21
7.53
6.48
1.69
1.14
3.07
0.12
....
5.62
15.73
4.83
T. 18.52.
....
1.08
5.15
4.27
3.04
1.61
5.72
3.92-
1.23
0.00
8.92
10.67
1S5S.
0.80
1.54
1.15
0.S6
2.80
6. CO
8.68
1.83
0.10
4.50
0.04
1.63
4.81
11.61
4.64
8.87
24.88
McK.'52
....
....
0.59
4.75
4.84
1.84
0.85
3.42
5.26
1.69
0.01
7.5-?
10.27
1853.
1.75
2.94
1.52
2.00
2.25
5.49
4.08
1.65
....
....
5.77
11.17
1354.
0.01
0.77
2.10
0.28
8.72
0.15
2.91
0.04
3.86
0.79
1.19
0.95
6.10
3.10
5.84
1.73
i6.n
1855.
0.09
1.00
0.08
S.29
2.63
1.19
....
....
5.00
Uean ..
0.62
1.37
1.23
1.29
8.84
2.92
2.92
0.S5
3.04
3.02
1.39
0.43
5.86
6.69
8.05
2.67
28.27
584
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS.
Jaa.
Feb.
March.
Api'il.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
1
Summer. Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1S)9 ...
• ■■•
<•••
• ■•.
....
0.12
0.31)
5.53
1.23
11.95
IMl)....
0.61
2.0T
1.8T
8.31
8.22
9.63
8.10
0.17
0.39
O.Sl
2.81
2.90
7.89
12.91)
3.54
6.61
29.93
1S51....
0.75
G.S6
1.45
4.87
2.80
8.71
8.07
0.60
1.20
0.10
8.30
2.80
S 62
7.41
4.90
9.91
80.S4
1S53....
1.00
4.80
6.00
0.70
2.66
5.09
3.58
1.75
8.40
2.70
....
....
9..%
10.37
Mean . .
0.30
4.41
2.91
2.S0
2 89
6.15
8.28
0.S4
2.80
1.U5
3.72
2.11
8.63
10.22 7.57
7.55
33.77
CORPUS CHRISTI, AND FORTS EWELL
AND
MKRRILL.
1S4C ..
3.96
2.37
1.-.5
3.71
3.41
6.65
3.02
5.13
10.49
8.80
15.16
1S19....
....
....
....
2.25
4.65
2.01
0.22
1.34
0.91
1S51....
....
4.82
2.53
5.52
8.97
0.28
4.96
2.71
1.89
1.19
9.72
9.56
1S54....
....
8.07
4.71
7.69
3.C3
6.82
....
IG.OS
Mean . .
3.96
2.37
1.25
4.01
4.63
5. 63
4.S9
2.91
6.73
2.37
1.05
1.26
9.91
13.48
10.15
7.59
41.11
1J52....
....
....
....
1.41
0.15
0.45
1858....
1.30
6.69
1.05
2.25
8.35
9.65
2.23
1.65
6.25
8.33
0.^
1.S7
6.65
13.53
9.40
9.77
89.81
1351....
0.22
2. 86
0.83
0.00
1.12
6.89
6.C5
8.53
8.21
4. OS
...
7.26
6.91
12.S4
Mean ..
0.76
4.78
0.71
5.11
7.S5
2.90
2.48
4.96
2.36
0.49
1.16
13.13
7.81
6.65
81.53
ISol....
....
....
....
8.47
1.41
1.83
4.19
1.81
2.98
0.87
0.85
0.56
7.83
4.15
1853...
....
1.18
8.76
....
....
1853....
....
....
6.75
5.80
8.12
1.40
1.18
10.83
1851....
0.11
1.99
0.05
1.16
7.66
4.70
5.41
8.18
5.01
0.61
3.20
2.13
8.S7
13.29
8.S5
4.28
85.21
1855....
0.35
2.19
0.13
0.23
1.21
S.75
....
1.57
Mean ..
0.23
2.09
0.C9
1.63
3.43
4.10
6.13
8.49
4.00
1.33
1.83
1.93
5.11
13.63
7.80
4.25
80.82
FORT BROWN, TEXAS, (.VIATAMOROS.)
1850....
1.30
3.80
2.80
0.05
2.20
0.06
1.16
0.01
0.25
5.79
0.69
0.15
4.55
1.23
0.78
8.23
20.76
1851....
0.95
1.20
O.40
1.15
0.90
2.85
8.65
1.30
6.6D
4.10
S.OO
4.70
2.45
7.80
12.10
6.85
29.30
1852....
0.50
0.60
0.85
0.00
4.05
5.05
0.70
3.90
8.50
4.95
0.90
0.00
4 40
9.65
14.35
1.10
29.50
1858....
0.00
1.60
0.00
2.20
0.10
1.70
0.00
3.10
8.00
7.75
1.30
0.65
2.30
4.80
17.05
2.25
26.40
1851....
0.45
1.50
1.15
0.05
4.10
7.63
4.25
5.00
11.31
5.79
7.47
1.88
5.30
16.90
21.57
3.83
50.00
1855 ...
8.47
4.83
8.08
0.00
1.92
10.47
4.95
Mean ..
1.61
2.25
1.20
0.56
2.21
4.55
1.95
2.76
6.78
6.63
2.67
1.43
8.97
9.26
15.08
5.34
33.65
RINGGOLD BARRACKS, TEXAS.
1319....
....
....
....
....
....
4.43
8.02
0.30
0.91
7.82
1S50....
3.11
0.61
1.98
0.79
4.65
2.76
0.17
0.11
0.03
0.59
2.91
0.01
7.27
3.04
8.57
8.76
17.61
1351 ...
0.81
0.69
0.08
1.21
0.20
1.21
2.20
0.02
5.21
1.20
0.12
1.15
1.44
8.43
6.63
2.6S
14.08
1S52....
1.00
0.88
0.65
0.63
2.23
0.96
0.8J
1.41
4.21
4.78
01
0.03
3.61
8.22
9.03
1.96
17.82
1S.")3. ..
0.70
2.38
0.09
8.79
8.91
1.45
0.15
4.81
2.82
2.40
0.19
0.91
7.79
5.94
4.91
3.94
22.63
1851....
0.70
1.69
0.22
0.00
2.88
10.98
4.06
1.6S
8.C2
0.92
2.10
0.63
8.05
16.89
6.04
8.07
29.05
1655...
1.06
0.68
1.43
0.00
2.10
5.8S
....
3.38
Mean ..
1.21
1.18
0.72
1.08
2.69
8.47
2.18
1.50
8.22
2.16
0.94
0.68
4.19
7.10
6.81
8.05
20.95
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
585
FORT Mcintosh, texas.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
1
1
Summer Aatomn
Winter.
Year.
1849....
....
....
....
....
....
2.95
4.70
3.74
0.46
0.83
0.35
1
5.03
1850....
0.39
0.72
0.46
0..'>1
3.70
4.93
1.19
0.07
0.00
2.21
2.68
0.49
4.67
6.19 1
4.89
1.60
17.33
1851...
0.11
1.69
0.95
1.35
0.37
3.36
0.78
0.00
2.73
1.37
0.87
0.65
2.67
4.14
4.97
2.45
14.23
IBS....
0.46
1.05
1.41
0.00
1.18
1.19
1.52
0.23
2.06
1.13
0.24
0.66
3.59
2.94
3.43
1.57
11.53
1853....
0.30
1.99
0.06
4.32
1.57
2.43
4.51
2.S
4.24
0.21
0.01
0.92
5.95
9.16
4.46
3.21
iB.78
1854....
0.05
1.90
0.30
0.00
5.02
4.54
3.9S
0.20
5.34
0.35
1.83
0.42
5.32
8.69
7.57
2.37
23.95
1855....
0.25
1.40
0.33
0.01
2.88
5.18
....
....
....
....
I 3.23
'
Mean...
0.26
1.46
0.59
1.03
2.45
3.61
2.48
1.24
3.C2
0.96
1.08
0.48
{ 4.07
7.33
5.06
2.20
18.66
FORT DUNCAS, TEXAS.
1849....
....
....
....
....
...w
0.03
1.20
0.40
j
1850....
0.40
0.12
0.02
0.98
1.00
5.51
2.85
0.60
0.10
1.30
3.70
1.40
3.00
8.96
5.10
1.92
17.98
1851....
0.70
2.^
0.23
0.88
1.15
2.30
1.10
0.70
1.36
1.50
1.20
0.68
2.26
4.10
4.06
3.70
14.12
1852....
0.28
2.30
6.27
0.00
2.13
2.81
6.70
0.32
6.10
1.22
0.24
O.OO
8.40
9.83
7.56
2.58
28.37
1853....
0.13
1.30
0.01
2.10
0.75
10.70
5.38
2.15
4.05
4.10
0.05
2.69
2.86
18.13
8.20
4.12
33.31
1854....
0.05
0.69
1.50
0.00
2.53
6.83
0.83
0.90
4.81
0.40
3.28
0.18
4.03
8.56
8.49
0.92 1
22.00
185S....
O.OO
0.91
0.01
0.28
1.44
....
....
....
1.73
Mean...
0.26
1.27
1.34
0.71
1.50
S.63
3.35
0.93
3.28
1.43
161
0.89
3.55
9.91
6.32
2.42
22.20
FORT INGE, TEXAS.
1849 ...
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
2.05
2.30
1850....
0.38
0.71
1.42
1.11
1.07
7.00
2.70
3.19
1.50
1.70
3.60
2.10
2.60
12.89
6.80
3.19
25.48
1851....
....
3.54
1.45
2.95
1.08
0.73
3.84
3.53
0.73
1.50
1.43
0.29
5.48
7.10
3.66
1832....
0.34
1.40
2.63
0.15
5.76
8.07
6.82
0.12
2.83
3.19
1.52
O.OO
8.53
15.01
7.54
1.74
.■*>.a2
1853....
2.16
3.38
1.51
2.43
3.28
9.00
4.97
1.59
1.20
6.76
0.15
1.03
7.21
15.56
8.11
6.76
37.64
1854....
0.20
2.15
3.00
0.75
3.88
2.09
097
1.67
4.80
0.33
3.71
0.50
7.63
4.73
8.84
2.85
24.08
1855....
O.IO
1.86
0.75
0.17
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
Mean...
0.64
2 21
1.79
1.26
3.UI
5.38
3.66
3.03
2.21
2 70
2.08
1.03
1 6.06
11.06
6.99
3.88
27.99
FORT LINCOLN, TEXAS.
1830...
1 ....
....
....
0.50
3.30
...^
,,
....
3.80
....
....
....
1831...
0.00
5.05
2.U
4.86
1.90
0.76
0.89
0.39
0.27
1 36
3.01
0.98 '
8.87
3.04
3.64
6.03
20 58
1853...
0.26
3.96
4.90
0.33
4.26
3.38
1.10
....
....
1
9.39
FORT CLARK, TEXAS.
1853....
■ ...
• ■«.
■ >*>
....
....
0.87
3.50
2.09
1.91
0.00
7.50
1853....
0.88
1.18
0.65
2.30
1.16
10.21
3.87
2.73
0.13
4.00
0.21
1.60
4.31
16.83
4.34
3.66
29.14
1854....
0.00
0.94
1.48
0.60
2.65
0.11
0.08
0.95
3.49
0.55
3.23
0.35
4.73
i.n
7.26
1.29
14.43
1855....
0.01
1.96
0.45
0.31
4.29
4.77
....
....
....
....
....
5.03
JNIcan...
0.30
1.36
0.86
1.14
2.70
5.03
1.98
1.53
2.37
2.21
1.78
0.65
4.60
8.53
6.36
2.31
21. SO
S. 96-
74
586
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
EL PASO AND FORT BLISS, NEW MEXICO.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
]8o0....
1851....
1854....
0.00
0.90
0.00
0.00
0.70
0.02
1.05
0.10
0.70
2.49
5.71
0.05
3.70
0.60
1.54
4.60
0.00
1.10
0.50
0.70
4.56
5.25
5.24
Mean...
0.00
0.90
0.00
0.00
0.70
0.0-2
0.57
2.97
1.68
1.07
2.30
0.80
0.70
3.58
5.25
1.70
11.21
The obser\atioiis nominally at El Paso lo August, 1851, were taken at points on the north side of the Rio Grande, opposite the Slexican town of El Paso.
FORTS FILLMORE, WEBSTER, AND THORN, NEW MEXICO.
1851....
....
...
....
1.40
0.11
2.13
1.74
3.64
1852....
....
0.29
0.04
0.20
0.40
1.74
3.84
1.00
1.47
0.77
2.66
0.00
0.64
6.58
4.90
1853....
0.04
0.10
0.03
0.01
0.05
0.28
2.80
1.63
1.21
0.90
1.15
0.64
0.09
4.91
3.26
0.78
9.04
1854....
0.00
0.00
0.65
0.10
0.86
0.05
0.67
1.38
0.95
0.39
0.07
0.15
1.61
2.30
2.01
0.15
6.07
1855....
0.00
0.00
0.12
0.45
0.05
0.07
....
....
0.62
F.Mean
0.01
0.10
0.21
0.20
0.34
0.54
2.50
1.40
1.26
0.54
1.50
0.63
0.75
4.44
3.30
0.74
9.23
W. 1852
1.51
0.13
4.45
1.23
4.89
4.79
4.29
3.47
1.19
3.48
0.30
4.81
13.97
8.14
W. 1853
0.40
0.50
0.00
0.00
1.05
1.08
2.55
1.21
1.26
0.40
0.26
0.08
1.05
4.84
1.92
0.98
6.79
T. 1854
0.00
0.00
0.14
0.20
1.10
0.08
2.23
6.01
3.50
0.00
0.99
0.35
1.44
8.32
4.49
0.35
14.60
T. 1855
0.09
0.20
0.80
0.25
0.05
....
....
....
1.10
FORT CONRAD AND SOCORRO, NEW MEXICO.
1851....
....
...
....
....
....
....
....
0.03
0.09
0.39
t
1852....
0.01
0.03
0.00
0.07
0.25
2.15
0.65
l.K
1.10
1.63
1.34
0.08
0.32
4.12
4.07
0.12
8.63
1853....
0.23
0.39
0.38
0.00
0.35
0.74
2.78
1.20
0.53
0.00
0.59
0.67
0.73
4.72
1.12
1.29
7.86
1854....
0.00
0.00
0.05
0.01
0.62
0.01
0.41
1.02
2.13
0.34
1.09
0.08
0.68
1.44
3.56
0.08
5.76
1855....
0.00
0.01
0.12
0.08
0.10
0.21
....
....
....
....
....
0.30
Mean...
0.06
0.11
0.14
0.04
0.33
0.78
1.28
1.18
1.25
0.50
0.78
0.31
0.51
3.24
2.53
0.46
6.76
S. 1849.
....
....
.. .
....
....
....
....
1.76
0.80
1850....
0.05
0.52
0.60
0.42
0.12
0.17
1.29
0.54
0.24
1.81
0.92
0.44
1.14
2.00
2.97
1.01
7.12
1851....
0.02
0.45
....
0.45
0.01
0.00
0.40
2.07
....
....
2.47
ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO.
1850....
....
0.05
0.01
0.02
0.21
0.16
1.26
0.45
0.51
0.28
1.02
0.61
0.24
1.89
1.81
1851....
0.07
0.56
0.42
0.04
0.03
00
0.30
....
....
0.49
1852....
0.70
0.07
8,15
0.07
4.06
0.19
0.35
0.16
0.02
0.77
12.28
0.70
1853....
0.00
0.00
0.01
0.00
0.04
0.00
2.57
3.80
0.07
0.00
0.31
0.30
0.05
6.37
38
0.30
7.10
1854....
0.30
0.00
0.43
0.39
1.19
0.28
2.59
1.19
2.67
1.37
1.35
0.92
2.01
4.06
5.39
1.05
12.51
1855....
0.20
0.40
1.02
0.74
0.89
....
....
....
2.65
Mean...
0.14
0.20
0.38
0.33
0.40
1.72
1.36
2.37
0.86
0.50
0.71
0.46
1.10
5.45
2.07
0.80
9.42
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
587
CEBOLLETA, LAGUTIA, NEW MEXICO.
SANTE FE, NEW MEXICO.
LAS VEGAS AND FORT UNION, NEW MEXICO.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
AprU.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring.
Summer
1
Autumn Winter.
Tear.
1849....
1850....
1851....
0.43
0.15
1.10
2.11
0.63
0.10
0.55
0.94
0.23
0.01
0.28
0.00
0.85
0.25
0.26
2.18
1.37
5.82
1.58
1.60
0.55
0.81
0.40
1.84
1.15
X.41
1.05
1.39
2.43
3.50 3.39
8.23 3.41
9.69
15.12
Mean...
0.30
1.61
0.36
0.75
0.12
0.14
0.55
1.23
3.60
1.S9
0.68
1.13
1 ^-^
1.91
5.87 , 3.04
1
12.05
1850....
....
1.26
1.00
0.65
0.98
0.^
....
0.38
1.60
1852....
....
....
.. .
....
....
....
0.91
2.55
1.65
1.36
5,11
1853....
0.00
0.69
0.50
0.00
0.98
1.88
7.45
5.42
2.68
0.97
0.43
0.77
1.48
14.75
4.08
1.46
21.77
1854....
0.38
0.12
2.01
1.68
1.16
0.32
4.11
3.86
4.06
2.50
3.54
1.08
4.83
8.39
10.10
1.56
34.80
1655....
0.57
0.30
1.63
0.85
0.68
1.77
....
....
....
....
....
3.16
Mean...
0.31
0.57
1.39
0.80
0.74
1.32
4.18
3.40
2.55
1.60
1.87
1.20
2.83
8.90
6.02
a.os
19.83
1850....
....
....
0.02
1851....
....
4.S3.'
0.01
2.11
1852....
0.48
0.59
0.00
0.24
1833....
0.19
0.08
0.77
0.32
1854....
0.07
0.02
0.63
0.46
1855....
0.01
0.01
0.43
0.01
Mean...
0.19
0.99
0.37
0.53
2.82
0.73
0.91
0.50
2.88
0.00
7.05
0.11
0.69
5.10
2.73
4.19
3.98
2.12 I 4.37
1.57 2.00 4.07
5.49
3.42
1.75
3.55
0.00
4.63
3.04
1.09
2.99
0.00
0.61
3.44
1.29
0.88
0.12
1.97
2.83
0.38
1.80
3.12
0.33
0.02
0.18
0.60
1.42 ; 0.85
4.94
0.97
2.00
1.59
3.SJ
2.47
13.27
7.72
6.42
0.12
7.21
9.31
3.26
5.67
1.09
0.45
0.69
2.03
CANTONMENT BURGWIN AND FORT MASSACHUSETTS, NEW MEXICO.
The mean embraces the obser>'ations at Fort Massachusetts only.
FORT DEFIANCE, NEW MEXICO.
26.64
13.43
14.37
19.24
B. 1854.
....
....
....
....
....
0.21
0.13
1.03
006
1.37
B. 1855.
1.06
1.04
0.20
0.08
0.20
0.83
2.64
....
....
....
0.48
1852....
....
....
1.84
6.34
1.45
1853....
0.22
0.76
0.94
0.39
1.49
1.11
3.04
1.48
1.25
....
2.^
5.63
1854....
....
....
3.93
0.24
2.14
2.61
1.53
0.35
2.30
4.99
1855....
0.25
0.67
....
0.45
1.00
0.86
....
....
....
....
....
Mean...
0.23
0.72
0.94
0.42
2.14
0.74
2.59
2.05
1.39
1.10
6.34
1.88
3.50
5.38
8.83
3.83
20.54
1852....
0.89
2.35
0.90
1.30
1.82
1.60
1.22
1.30
4.55
4.64
1833....
0.40
0.08
1.29
0.10
1.44
0.43
1.43
4.65
2.64
0.94
0.22
0.25
2.83
6.51
3.80
0.73
13.87
1854....
2.00
0.15
0.45
0.93
0.51
1.24
3.94
5.24
3.47
0.62
1.49
1.20
1.49
10.42
5.58
3.35
20.84
1855....
0.83
1.71
3.30
0.50
0.06
0.43
....
....
....
....
....
3.86
Mean. . .
1.08
0.65
1.68
0.51
o.ra
1.11
1.57
3.73
2.64
1.05
0.98
0.92
3.91
6.41
4.67
2.65
16.64
588
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OP RAIN.
rOKT T0MA, CALIFORNIA.
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA.
SAN LUIS RET, RANCHO DEL CHINO, AND RANCHO DE JURUPA, CALIFORNIA.
* At Fort Tcjon ; the summary cnibraccs only the obijervations which follow, taken at two posts near each other, Del Chitio and Jurupa.
MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA.
FORT MILLER, CALIFORNIA.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Spring. 'Summer
Autumn Winter. Year.
1851....
1852....
1833....
1854....
1855....
0.00
D.OO
O.OO
0.12
0.01
D.OO
0.28
1.26
0.00
0.01
0.80
0.00
0.27
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
O.OO
0.00
0.28
0.25
0.01
0.33
0.69
2.37
....
1.45
0.13
0.17
0.00
0.00
0.30
0.35
0.18
0.00
0.04
0.52
0.57
0.01
0.80
0.00
0.61
0.94
2.38
1.80
0.31
0.47
0.52 1.78
0.85 4.50
Mean...
0.03 j 0.39
0.20
0.07
0.00
0.00
0.18
1.13
0.58
O.IO
0.18
0.38
0.27
1.31
0.86
0.80
3.24
1850....
0.00
1.13
1.00
0.09
0.00
0.68
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.19
2.82
1.93
1.09
0.68
3.01
3.06
7.84
1851....
0.03
1.51
0.34
0.87
0.71
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.02
0.01
0.25
3,74
1.92
0.01
0.28
5.28
7.49
1852....
0.58
1.84
1.87
0.85
0.32
0.00
0.00
0.40
0.00
0.06
1.45
4.50
3.04
0.40
1.51
6.92
11.87
1853....
0.50
0.20
1.52
0.25
2.10
0.05
0.00
0.21
0.00
0.00
1.28
1.77
3.87
0.26
1.28
2.47
7.88
1854....
1.46
2.56
2.14
0.75
0.21
0.02
0.07
1.35
0.13
0.01
0.02
334
3.10
1.44
0.16
7.36
12.06
1855....
2.40
4.83
1.53
1.82
0.10
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
3.42
Mean...
0.83
2.01
1.40
0.77
0.57
0.15
0.01
0.39
0.03
0.05
1.16
3.06
i 2.74
0.55
1.24
5.90
10.43
S. 1850.
....
....
....
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.20
3.28
2.22
0.00
3.48
S. 1851.
0.09
0.95
0.21
....
....
....
0.00
0.21
3.26
6.95
1855*...
....
....
1.58
3.78
0.61
0.00
....
....
....
....
....
....
5.97
1851....
....
....
....
....
....
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
....
....
1852....
....
....
....
—
0.00
0.00
2.89
7.50
2.89
1853....
0.25
0.67
3.15
0.33
1.14
0.00
O.OO
0.18
0.00
0.00
0.44
2.04
4.62
0.18
0.44
2.96
8.20
1854....
1.64
2.34
3.09
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
....
Mean...
0.95
1.50
3.12
0.33
1.14
0.00
0.00
0.09
0.00
0.00
1.67
4.97
4.59
0.09
1.67
7.42
13.77
'1847....
.. .
....
....
0.03
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
1.10
3.10
0.00
1848....
1.70
2.20
2.40
0.65
2.50
0.50
0.50
0.00
....
1849....
...
0.03
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.01
0.61
3.45
0.00
0.62
1850....
2.95
2.00
1.30
33
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
o.oa
0.00
0.61
2.98
1.66
0.00
0.63
7.93
10.22
1851....
....
....
....
....
0.01
0.00
0.01
0.20
0.91
4.50
1.12
1852....
0.40
0.30
6.12
0.92
0.10
0.16
0.00
00
....
7.14
0.16
Mean...
1.68
1.50
3.27
0.63
0.53
0.13
0.08
0.00
0.01
0.33
1.31
2.73
4.43
0.21
1.65
5.91
12.20
1851....
....
....
....
....
0.00
0.00
0.01
0.00
....
10.41
1852....
0.42
0.61
15.59
2.59
0.60
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.07
0.07
8.80
20.60
18.78
0.00
8.91
21.63
49.35
1853....
1.20
2.33
5.54
2.25
4.79
0.00
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.00
1.26
1.00
12.58
0.01
1.26
4.55
18.40
1854....
2.26
2.42
0.85
2.08
0.04
O.Ol
....
....
0.12
0.68
0.00
1.25
2.97
0.80
5.93
1855....
1.48
1.37
3.64
0.34
0.00
....
....
....
....
....
....
3.98
Mean...
1.34
1.69
6.40
1.81
1.36
0.01
0.01
0.00
0.05
0.19
3.35
8.31
1 9.57
0.02
3.59
11.34
24.51
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OF RAIN.
589
SAN FEANCISCO, CALIFORNIA.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
May.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oe,.
Nov.
1
Dec. !
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
(
Winter.
1
Year.
1830....
• • ..
■ • ••
e.38
....
00
0.01
....
1852....
....
....
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.69
4.93
12.07 !
5.61
1853....
3.75
1.17
3.72
5.27
0.42
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.23
0.28
2.00
1.86
9.41
0.00
2.51
6.78
18.70
1854...
3.04
5.87
3.11
2.24
0.06
1.05
0.01
0.03
03
1.56
0.40
0.60
5.41
0.09
1.99
9.51
17.00
1855....
2.89
2.68
3.23
3.65
1.42
0.00
....
....
....
8.30
Mean. . .
3.23
3.31
4.61
3.72
0.48
0.02
0.00
0.01
0.09
0.84
2.44
4.S4
8.81
0.03
3.37
11.38
23.59
BENICIA BARRACKS, CALIFORNIA..
1849....
1850....
1851....
1653....
1853....
1854....
1855....
4.44
0.88
0.36
2.48
2.06
2.86
1.68
0.23
0.00
0.44
4.80
2.79
2.45
5.83
4.78
2.66
2.05
3.13
1.37
0.03
3.12
1.56
3.25
0.59
0.00
0.36
0.00
2.01
0.00
0.00
0.03
0.00
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.01
0.04
0.01
0.00
00
0.00
0.10
1.05
0.04
2.26
4.46
1.03
1.34
2.28
1.71
0.87
2.18
4.92
9.03
0.99
1.45
7.79
4.81
6.14
6.27
8.39
0.00
0.00
0.03
0.00
0.01
1.04
1.48
3.34
1.75
3.13
8.30
6.03
9.39
3.91
6.50
15.30
17.57
11.80
15.91
Mean...
2.18
1.66
3.48
2.33
0.59
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.01
0.69
1.95
3.72
6.40
0.01
2.65
7.56
16.62
SACRAMENTO AND CAMP FAR WEST, CALIFORNIA.
1849....
....
• • • •
....
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.20
6.41
5.20
0.00
6.61
1850....
6.31
0.60
5.60
1.40
0.01
0.01
2.10
2.00
7.01
8.91
1851....
2 06
1.16
3.44
3.06
0.86
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.36
0.10
1.86
6.63
7.36
0.00
2.32
9.85
19.53
1852....
1.60
0.13
10.05
....
....
....
....
Mean..
3.32
0.63
6.36
2.23
0.43
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.18
0.10
3.46
4.61
9.02
0.00
3.74
8.56
21.32
FORT KEADING, CALIFOKNLi.
1852....
1853....
1854....
1855....
4.66
2 90
3.69
3.18
2.15
6.95
7.11
0.80
5.68
2.87
4.57
3.07
5.17
0.73
2.40
5.43
1.06
0.00
0.00
0.20
0.00
00
0.01
0.00
0.24
0.00
O.UO
0.02
0.00
0.48
0.02
2.26
8.48
2.52
0.87
11.18
2.18
1.45
....
12.41
6.27
16.28
1.06 8.96
0.24 2.56
0.01 ' 3.13
1
9.02
6.50
24.23
15.91
Mean... 3.75
4.09
4.53
3.92
2.85
0.31
0.00
0.08
0.01
0.92
3.96 4.60
11.30
0.39
4.89
12.44
29.03
FORTS HUMBOLDT AND JONES, CALIFORNIA.
1854....
4.83
6.80
5.14
5.58
1855....
330
4.45
6.80
....
1853....
3.78
1.38
3.39
1.02
1854....
54
2.62
0.75
1.99
1855....
1.58
3.63
5.24
1.50
Mean 1
Ft. J. f
1.97
2.07
3.13
1.50
0.12 0.69
2.80 I 1.60
I
1.17 I 0.41
0.21 0.63
0.87
0.75 0.52
0.00 0.00 , O.UO
3.69
0.13 0.48
0.20 0.21 0.00 4.18
16 I 0.21 0.00 2.33
0.98
1.18
10.84
0.69
4.67
12.81
4.47
1.19
5.5S
6.35
0.48
l.Ui
2.9.T
7.61
1.04
4.66
4. 29
2.97 1.16
5.38 0.89 S.30
13.09
5.20 16.77
590
SERIES OF MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEASUREMENTS OP RAIN.
FORT ORFORD, OREGON.
Jan.
Feb.
March.
April.
Moy.
June.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
.ec.
Spring.
Summer
Autumn
Winter.
Year.
1852....
....
....
0.33
0.31
1.00
....
12.03
16.91
1.64
1853....
11.81
6.65
6.43
6.11
1.89
....
....
....
....
14.4S
1854....
....
....
....
....
....
0.00
3.56
0.19
11.10
4.59
6.37
15.88
1855....
7.81
6.04
9.84
5.17
8.60
1.80
....
....
....
....
....
....
23.61
Mean...
8.81
6.35
8.24
5.64
5.24
1.06
0.16
1.78
0.19
11.10
8.31
11.64
19.12
3.00
19.60
26.80
68.SS
FORT VANCOUVER, WASHINGTON TERRITORY.
1849....
....
....
....
....
■ •••
...
....
....
....
....
6.00
1850»...
6.66
2.60
6.71
0.60
0.40
3.22
8.35
0.00
0.98
2.69
4.90
1.29
7.71
11.57
8.57
10.55
38.40
1851....
9.55
2.04
4.08
....
....
7.93
19.52
1852....
9.31
4.77
4.28
6.S6
3.49
1.77
....
1.55
7.37
13.37
14.31
27.45
1853....
9.30
4.21
2.47
1.72
2.33
0.90
0.30
39
2.00
3.66
11.57
3.22
6.53
1.S9
17.23
16.73
42.07
1854....
2.83
1.22
2.78
0.75
2.41
0.00
1.72
0.00
2.3i
3.19
8.34
; 4.75
4.13
11.17
1855....
13.29
3.84
3.99
2.04
3.77
2.43
....
....
....
9.80
1
Mean...
9.62
3.38
3.79
2.74
2.75
2.68
2.85
0.70
0.99
2.5S
6.76
6.69
9.28
6.33
10.30
19.69
45.50
* At Columbia Barracka from September, 1850.
DALLES OF COLUMBIA, OREGON.
1850....
1851....
1852....
1833....
1854...
1853....
3.81
3.02
2.79
3.03
1.70
1.09
0.73
0.63
1.79
0.27
0.36
1.87
1.29
1.53
0.17
0.63
0.00
1.08
0.00
0.15
0.24
0.01
0.08
0.00
0.00
0.61
0.18
0.09
1.41
0.84
0.91
0.25
0.24
1.91
1.14
2.75
4.90
1.41
0.19
8.01
0.95
2.50
2.18
1.88
3.12
0.69
0.33
2.14
6.55
4.16
5.06
5.02
14.48
11.39
Mean. . .
3.16
1.04
1.07
0.99
0.57 0.13
0.03
0.26
0.78
0.63
2.55
2.91
2.63
0.42
4.16
7.11
14.33
FORT STEILACOOM, WASHINGTON TERRITORY.
1849 ...
....
....
....
....
....
9.43
8.15
1850....
8.52
4.83
6.70
1.00
0.30
0.40
0.20
0.00
1.20
2.40
5.14
2.62
8.00
0.60
8.74
15.97
33.31
1851....
15.30
1.47
3.20
3.09
1.95
0.55
0.36
0.81
2.88
3.98
3.02
3.93
7.24
1.72
9.66
30.70
39.32
1852....
11.50
5.43
5.12
3.34
0.12
0.82
0.93
1.78
1.02
3.72
6.17
8.84
8.58
3.53
10.91
25.77
48.79
1853....
8.14
3.24
2.62
1.57
2.08
3.09
0.23
1.19
4.99
6.93
18.41
4.42
6.27
4.61
30.33
15.80
57.01
185-1....
8.69
7.57
2.89
12.50
0.88
5.68
0.00
3.93
3.46
4.37
7.37
12.87
15.27
9.61
15.20
29.13
69.21
1855....
5.10
9.54
8.40
5.16
7.85
7.14
5.81
1.40
....
....
....
20.80
Mean. . .
4.58
4.77
1.86
1.97
0.34
1.54
2.67
4.28
8.25
6.81
11.19
3.85
15.20
21.51
51.75
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER.
591
SUMMARY FOR 1843.
WINDS.
WEATHER.
STATIONS.
Hancock Banacks . .
Fort Sulliran
Fort Constitution . . . .
Watertow-n .\rsenal .
Fort .\dams
Fort Trumbull
Fort Columbus
Fort Hamilton
West Point
Watervliet Arsenal .. ,
Plattsburg Barracks .,
Madison Barracks
Fort Ontario
Fon Niagara ,
Butfalo Barracks
Alleghany Arsenal . .
Carlisle Barracks....
Fort Mifflin
Fort McHenrj-
Fort Severn
Fort Monroe
Fort Macon
Fort Johnston
Augusta Arsenal
Fort Moultrie
Oglethorpe Barracks .
Fort Marion
Fort Brooke
Camp Barrancas
Mt. Vernon Arsenal ..
Fort Pike
Fort Wood
New Orleans
Baton Rouge
Fort Jesup
Fort Washita
Fort Towson
Fort Smith
Fort Gibson
Fort Scott
Jefferson Barracks . ,.
St. Louis .\rsenal
Detroit Barracks
Fort Gratiot
Fort Mackinac
Fort Brady
Fort Winnebago
Fort .-\tkinson
Fort Crawford
Fort Snelling
Fort Leavenworth . . .
55
9
27
90
43
36
14
31
24
28
21
7
SS
31
S8
41
SI
11
33
35
7
40
28
38
30
35
23
31
36
19
23
94
53
17
44
3
20
26
16
35
31
13
%
39
27
36
10
21
38
N.E.
36
15
45
33
49
42
72
47
9
3
38
40
44
62
41
27
17
68
54
13
62
67
47
38
46
57
108
71
63
116
77
18
21
54
69
73
48
70
38
75
74
29
17
18
41
16
23
S.E.
31
13
10
32
10
18
26 I
12
15
73
12
16
6
53
11
33
8
89
32
14
41
36
3
47
92
104
21
6
51
36
53
41
13
70
72
22
24
11
11
20
32
67
12
24
27
27
37
23
20
20
48
66
42
21
15
6
29
31
33
37
34
29
17
30
21
41
57
48
58
88
71
8
30
37
80
49
37
143
46
57
47
21
49
21
48
27
20
58
47
31
41
55
13
29
33
117
14
59
33
26
12
7
30
11
15
47
13
32
36
SO
38
60
13
32
19
9
24
58
138
7
19
9
23
52
48
30
16
29
45
33
24
52
83
S.W.
41
103
34
82
56
70
53
45
17
21
74
112
70
80
147
28
19
97
62
30
86
91
49
105
36
45
%
45
71
66
35
8
15
32
99
14
43
20
45
38
39
98
94
17
24
23
38
80
84
37
W. N.W. ' Fair. Cloudy. Bain. Snow.
39
75
75
81
44
26
39
19
106
6
16
69
53
54
44
101
40
61
30
37
25
24
12
81
30
23
22
19
3
32
46
19
5
9
13
14
8
34
68
71
30
35
76
59
49
31
16
53
49
87
91
67
125
139
54
120
53
152
69
39
68
35
64
37
89
73
79
67
58
II
75
22
33
47
97
47
81
40
S
16
19
58
58
49
21
41
77
42
33
39
98
64
73
109
149
73
70
132
172
183
166
200
164
159
173
185
151
220
130
138
119
151
143
205
217
190
202
188
259
285
241
239
217
240
255
170
228
198
194
154
240
176
SSS
183
199
939
192
179
203
109
143
151
138
183
173
181
167
206
233
193
182
199
165
201
206
193
180 I
214
145
235
227
246
214
S3
160
148
175
163
177
106
100
124
126
148
125
110
195
137
167
171
211
161
189
143
183
166
126
173
186
162
256
214
iS7
182
193
184
198
159
98
66
65
61
91
97
90
76
83
66
85
79
90
90
115
101
91
107
101
92
118
109
91
84
104
93
125
110
118
115
118
115
125
121
76
109
101
68
111
93
57
83
105
52
94
70
68
71
39
37
37
33
32
19
23
30
«
49
54
57
34
67
3J
19
17
19
7
6
1
2
1
1
1
3
4
4
9
6
9
28
20
47
64
66
43
58
63
48
37
31
592
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER.
SUMMARY FOR 1844.
STATIONS.
WINDS.
N.E.
S.W.
W.
N.W.
WEATHER.
Fair.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Snow.
Hancocic Barracks
Fort Siilliv'Uii
Fort Preble
Fort Conslilutiori
Fort .'\dninH
Fort Trumbull
Fort Columbus
Fort Hamilton
"West Point
WntervUet .'\rscnal
Platlsburg Barracks
Madison Barr.icks
Fort Ontario
Fort Niagara
BuHalo Barracks
Alleghany ,\rseual
Carlisle Barracks
Fort Mifflin
FortMcIlcnry
Fort Sevirn
Fort Monroe
Fort Johnston
Augusta .Arsenal
Fort Moultrie
Oglethorpe Barracks....
p'ort Marion
Key West*
Fort Brooke
Camp Barranca-s
Fort Pike
Fort Wood
New Orleans!
Baton Rouge
Fort Jesup
FortTowson
Fort Washita
Fori Smith
Fort Gibson
Fort Scott
Jellerson Barracks
St. Louis Arsenal
Detroit Barracks
Fort Gratiot
Fori Mackinac
Fort Brady
Fort Winnebago J
Fort Crawtbrd
Fort Atkinson
Fort Snelling
Fort Des Moines
Fort Leavenworth
31
50
33
44
51
26
33
26
38
42
6
12
33
33
51
17
11
53
39
12
19
15
29
64
41
41
7
54
23
84
30
39
24
42
33
5
20
47
28
37
51
14
52
29
32
14
75
24
53
30
S4
19
3U
47
63
39
75
90
12
2
91
78
76
45
33
49
13
73
41
25
43
76
37
SI
31
65
38
99
39
52
2
26
58
64
59
23
30
37
35
37
49
43
76
33
24
14
33
30
35
22
45
15
7
19
22
14
25
21
5
1
11
7
14
25
15
26
74
12
29
8
66
47
35
60
69
67
135
45
41
64
96
67
122
10
70
21
55
36
32
21
50
23
16
28
65
14
II
46
16
46
17
39
31
14
15
32
45
24
51
9
53
81
68
35
17
15
21
42
35
46
52
16
39
21
17
45
39
26
49
59
I
39
40
50
75
29
20
213
26
60
60
18
83
54
65
21
62
62
37
71
75
30
29
10
iB
49
137
38
30
44
64
18
17
21
15
36
76
12
47
28
46
69
33
38
64
17
14
99
33
24
138
13
163
76 j
54
40 !
62
43
25
13
30
25
39
45
52
55
107
35
83
69
57
70
83
61
62
149
65
14
94
38
43
62
103
102
57
26
46
11
85
79
30
48
17
35
37
17
72
54
40
70
73
46
27
29
60
37
75
42
50
65
67
30
66
60
55
45
49
33
87
20
10
30
52
57
73
140
29
85
42
53
32
51
64
70
36
8
16
44
32
75
24
35
6
16
31
41
6
47
56
53
60
19
69
60
43
15
28
21
73
21
46
67
39
80
48
78
en
53
159
57
66
71
59
49
42
65
64
89
51
86
61
25
56
34
18
33
7
24
41
60
3
18
17
23
65
29
33
12
29
54
36
38
46
61
65
38
138
69
81
47
79
141
197
174
179
164
181
199
205
180
193
171
130
124
135
134
152
202
218
214
216
180
256
238
234
214
249
277
285
174
272
219
303
213
222
223
229
214
203
202
212
283
142
112
141
1)1
160
182
167
179
186
191
225
169
192
185
203
185
167
161
186
172
195
236
240
228
232
214
164
148
152
150
186
110
128
132
152
117
58
81
192
94
147
163
153
144
143
137
152
163
164
154
83
224
255
225
255
174
184
199
187
180
175
78
74
68
67
104
119
108
75
88
65
98
102
68
118
112
121
75
98
79
99
103
86
70
88
97
83
79
76
114
101
90
36
74
76
84
64
109
90
75
107
113
66
93
80
113
79
82
91
76
35
19
19
26
10
17
13
14
17
23
19
34
14
27
48
13
16
11
»
15
7
1
3
6
3
2
7
11
10
23
38
48
57
33
18
26
26
15
9
* January not observed.
t At Pass Christian from July to October.
t No observations in May.
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER.
693
SUMMARY FOR 1845.
WIND3.
WEATHER.
STATIONS.
DAYS.
DAYS.
"
N.BS;
E.
S.E.
S.
S.W.
w.
N.W.
Fair.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Snow.
54
64
39
9
22
31
66
3
29
23
30
7
31
33
28
31
78
29
43
42
3
51
19
11
17
49
29
51
84
15
46
22
43
65
13
44
39
53
33
80
67
13
3
16
63
45
31
37
8
■ ■^.
54
46
36
12
61
16
74
72
41
14
31
58
33
23
39
9
63
27
19
18
24
19
11
- 48
19
9
19
-
3
28
4
16
14
35
61
25
22
36
18
59
42
67
35
7
86
33
119
14
36
7
43
41
14
32
64
21
16
31
51
25
28
15
15
40
65
14
3
75
42
33
16
17
19
59
19
40
5
39
23
32
80
81
25
16
110
33
56
46
9
101
28
66"
31
31
86
17
64
20
32
25
10
40
119
123
10
39
78
27
8
44
13
54
32
85
27
38
66
7
24
162
48
98
76
68
47
47
51
39
20
56
38
29
56
76
75
75
83
62
51
38
18
119
76
67
60
11
75
65
69
106
9
27
3
37
59
20
31
52
32
60
63
45
35
56
60
35
47
51
46
33
41
66
48
45
40
32
106
91
9
49
65
82
182
67
56
80
45
108
40
5
46
5
14
72
46
13
34
24
96
13
87
78
83
47
68
127
GO
49
89
59
129
138
53
20
81
65
54
78
71
61
62
32
57
10
22
7
31
131
46
8
39
22
43
88
38
24
50
43
58
66
92
70
27
CO
149
187
231
185
191
SHI
153
107
131
109
179
214
ISl
165
270
235
286
229
148
212
219
241
212
263
210
231
190
280
156
111
139
lao
116
201
207
140
270
216
178
13.1
180
174
144
212
258
231
256
186
151
184
200
95
130
79
105
64
153
MB
124
153
iU2
155
134
169
83
209
254
226
245
249
164
158
130
95
98
101
67
81
103
79
83
101
78
73
108
68
66
84
77
5.-!
86
76
55
85
»e
68
75
66
49
80
79
64
65
85
85
71
64
frj
65
51
15
iS
Fort Hamilton
15
16
23
21
SJ
34
28
17
Alleghany Arsenal
Carlisle Barracks
22
20
17
Fort McHenry
Fort Moultrie
10
\
KcyWestt
Mount Vernon Arsenal
Fort Towson
4
Fort Washita
8
3
2
Fort Scott
12
Jefferson BarracksJ . . „
St. Louis Arsiennt
Detroit Itarracks
Fort Gratiot
6
7
28
30
55
5»
65
24
Fort Snclling
2J
9
2
* Month of August wanting.
t First seven months only.
{ No observations taken for six days in SoptPniber.
^ Observations for the first dbie months only.
S. flfi-
-75
594
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER.
SUMMARY FOR 1846.
STATIONS.
WINDS.
N.E.
S.W.
W.
N.W.
WEATHER.
Fair.
Cloudy. Kain. I Snow.
Fort Adams (o)
Fort Hamilton
Fort Columbus
Weil Point
Plattsl)urg Barracks (i).. . .
Madison Barracks (f)
Alleghany Arsenal
Fort .Mifflin (d)
Fort JlcIIenry
Fort Monroe
Fort Moultrie (c)
.•\ugusta Arsenal (/)
Ogtetllnrpe Barracks (g) ..
Fort Marion
Fori Brooke
Mount Vernon Arsenal . ...
Baton Rouge
Corpus Cliristi (A) ,
San Antonio (j)
Fort Washita
Fort Smith
Fort Gibson
Fort Scott
Jefferson Barracks
St- Louis Arsenal
Fort Gratiot (A)
Fort Mackinac .
Fort Brady CO
FortSnclling
Fort Wilkins (m)
Fort Leavenworth (n)
27
97
IC
51
28
2
SO
8
23
22
8
47
17
25
10
68
23
24
36
17
14
40
12
43
10
39
21
17
16
34
50
74
83
44
43
13
86
38
48
16
7
5
92
65
32
31
9
27
47
50
49
.53
47
48
57
19
75
12
30
12
28
8
9
3
35
8
14
64
44
9
53
15
84
18
163
40
33
70
114
19
29
80
46
16
50
43
58
13
40
44
63
14
28
22
5
63
47
26
6
31
27
64
20
73
13
42
28
115
38
21
47
32
39
62
109
25
64
19
33
ai
41
29
Q
24
11
16
27
43
11
48
19
39
22
16
59
68
102
33
86
49
42
51
27
22
16
14
23
50
61
78
71
39
8
58
40
24
55
59
.54
14
9
15
41
54
23
16
15
29
47
.37
69
32
43
22
45
20
23
18
47
38
52
46
35
41
90
17
44
S3
55
19
64
19
39
17
30
12
37
42
50
13
38
53
52
11
52
41
23
37
14
24
48
104
109
16
31
51
25
63
54
18
12
4
16
16
115
10
22
4
IS
28
23
53
88
31
8
60
61
35
27
74
112
161
75
15
191
174
81
13
188
177
96
23
166
199
97
14
66
115
' 34
13
52
►29
' 43
30
152
213
112
17
55
65
23
13
158
207
79
22
201
164
106
5
213
121
69
66
54
25
I
163
80
80
78
103
41
205
160
116
204
169
83
152
213
123
142
147
72
88
124
64
263
102
81
3
239
126
90
3
198
167
59
2
160
205
87
3
204
151
76
9
303
62
84
9
63
118
47
28
148
217
59
44
130
173
48
42
116
249
60
16
83
98
26
44
220
141
61
6
(a) First nine monllis,
(6) First s^ix months.
(c) First six months.
(d) First four months.
(fi) October wanting.
(/) Fi^^t four months.
is) From Januar)' to September, inclusive, (except April.)
(A) From January to October, inclusive, (14 days wanting.)
(i) From January to June, inclusive, and December.
(A:) First six months.
{I) July and August wanting.
(m) First six months.
(n) June incomplete.
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER.
695
SUMMARY FOR 1847.
STATIONS.
WINDS.
WEATHER.
N.E.
S.E.
Fair. Cloudy.
Bain.
Snow.
Fori Hamilton
Fort Columbus
West Point
Alleghany Arsenal
Fort McHenry
Fort Monroe
Fort Moultrie
Fort Brooke
Fort Barrancas (a) . . . ,
Mount Vernon Arsenal
New Orleans Barracks.
Fort Wasblta
Fort Smith
Fort Gibson
Fort Scott
St. Louis Arsenal
Fort Mackinac
Fort Brady
Fort Snelling
Fort Leavenworth
Matamoros
VeraCniz (b)
Monterey (c)
32
16
29
65
30
16
58
22
21
29
47
109
60
15
67
55
40
32
30
12
74
75
12
66 I
62
47
38
77
63
48
54
11
74
35
25
15
61
36
46
58
33
67
25
27
10
30
27
7
9
37
14
59
35
70
26
21
42
38
135
24
36
43
33
81
43
16
44
59
14
68
47
36
59
IS
62
24
19
3
98
34
SO
35
36
105
41
14
25
4
31
16
32
35
^
17
66
56
25
28
101
127
53
99
84
44
27
19
75
100
39
9
85
45
45
62
64
35
38
17
56
38
11
18
32
38
39
41
37
127
66
3
3
36
25
5
47
70
38
44
61
41
16
12
45
23
71
9
38
47
50
69
154
20
3
19
18
Bo
128
120
61
63
50
24
25
13
78
32
12
8
26
31
41
165
58
25
93
4
4
138
209
195
179
156
167
188
273
196
107
195
184
263
222
273
180
238
146
211
109
260
265
121
136
156
no
186
209
198
177
92
169
44
170
181
102
143
92
185
127
219
154
256
105
100
93
109
79
105
78
125
94
107
77
77
36
104
80
72
79
58
66
71
61
84
53
37
47
73
15
17
19
14
14
1.-1
7
s
1
9
19
4
26
33
19
16
1
(a) First five months.
(6) Observations for the last seven months.
(c) Observations for the last eight months.
59C
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER.
SUMMARY FOR 1848.
WINDS.
WEATHER.
STATIONS.
DAYS.
DATS.
N.
N.E.
E.
S.E.
S.
S.W.
w.
N.W.
Fair.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Snow.
Fort Hamilton
27
29
78
78
.(.1
■S.I
79
12
42'
4-1
30
11.).-)
or*
19
56
36
33
11
10
9
31
21
"5
47
i>4
18
35
■J2
■10
C5
33
37
48
26
70
17
14
27
55
33
47
21
13
36
19
14
5
25
19
1
38
73
13
54
54
69
20
.17
U
54
Uo
8
31
13
34
8
33
10
14
20
.... ^
20
42
39
23
30
56
42
31
48
48
38
33
18
5
33
19
72
28
29
24
16
66
40
67
67
4
110
81
48
38
42
23
67
59
24
25
34
la
24
16
14
115
49
54
45
13
17
67
57
7
48
34
52
16
62
123
50
59
42
25
29
39
6
23
63
24
35
52
81
19
29
19
50
6
37
97
100
102
61
43
72
53
28
27
67
16
41
11
6
68
40
46
44
36
21
104
94
4
102
SB
209
143
162
218
168
212
259
175
177
161
117
232
227
203
178
212
245
83
77
139
67
142
144
157
233
204
148
198
154
107
154
189
199
97
134
139
133
188
154
121
69
75
227
85
104
44
85
106
90
71
68
65
53
77
98
92
82
45
58
51
46
57
78
12
21
59
38
47
10
R
22
Alleghany Arsenal
13
4
4
3
Mount Vernon Arsenal
New Orleans Barracks (ft)
Baton Rouge Barracks (c)
Fort VVasliila
3
23
53
2
Port Scott
28
58
42
22
13
99
30
27
9
71
71
36
12
7
23
51
47
13
11
Jefferson Barracks
13
12
15
30
Fort Snelling
33
Matamoros (/)
(a) October and si.x days of September vvaiitiug
(i) Six days in December wanting,
(c) Last seven months.
(rf) First five months.
(c) First five months.
(/) First five months.
{••) First eight months.
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER.
597
SUMMAEY FOR 1849.
WINDS.
1
WEATHF.R.
STATIONS.
DAYS.
DAVS.
N.
N.E.
E.
S.E.
S.
B.W. W.
N.W.
Fair.
Cloudy.
Bain.
Snow.
Fort Sullivan (a)
23
14
15
6
32
13
27
14
63
121 2Q
14
11
Fort Preble (1)
45
6
7
14
17
15
52
33
105
1
99 37
53
36
6
33
18
! 41
8 43
33 75
8
26
22
89
i ^^
31
73
215
111 50
150 79
9
19
Fort Adams
Fort Trumbull (a)
9
40
7
21 6
43
17
35
128
117
78
6
Fort Iliiinilton
3H
68
27
16 1 36
60
24
101
209
156
66
12
Fort C(»hiMilius
38
63
1 28
29 1 27
41
50
i 88
1 212
153
80
14
West Point
77
23
3
44 1 70
35
16
96
134
231
102
38
18
10
14
29 ! 4n
90
' 148
94
158
32
74
6
17
Madison Barracks ((.•)
39
27
20
19
66
47
41
24
Fort Niajj.ira (a)
24
12
24
10 31
17
1
35
16
93
91
54
12
57
53
32
22 ."S
85
44
39
161
244
204
122
108
68
28
Carlisle Barracks
[ 18
24
85
33
30
14
112
48
41
36
38
61
42
13
25
54
46
34
46
47
88
45
39
75
174
151
191
214
87
84
1 1-2
1 ■'
Fort Mcllcnry
29
SO
93
34
53
15
30
15
24
43
37
43
49
10
49
22
163
132
202
103
105
53
6
Fort Macon {d)
84
12
37
55
35
90
23
66
35
23
50
37
61
53
39
27
277
227
88
138
78
78
Fort Rrooke
Barrancas Barracks (e)
29
18
29
27
58
21
12
9
120
93
47
1
Mount Vernon Arsenal
J8
46
6
84
17
74
4
114
172
193
90
1
9
16
35
26
28
42
14
20
67
136
51
New Orleans Barracks (e)
24
17
44
18
46
12
SO
6
117
106
57
1
Baton Rouge Barracks
12
38
39
82
-'
48
24
20
179
125
70
2
Fort Washita
31
64
65
70
44
39
30
20
163
202
106
5
Fort Smith
14
15
98
22
32
138
17
205
160
100
g
69
47
29
42
14
30
82
31
189
146
176
219
94
87
4
Fort Scott
58
49
34
35
87
40
Jefferson Barracks
37
32
74
54
62
30
34
41
170
19.')
93
8
57
75
47
28
27
25 ,
63
42
171
194
92
29
27
11
32
1
29 1
20
96
165
109
88
20O
75
222
166
43
47
37
67
64
11
24
14
25
11
43
41
34
38
40
1
46
56
67
Fort liipli-y
12
7
8
27
3-»
24
35
Fort Shelling
29
32
29
81
52
61
25
56
143
Fort Leavr'nworlh
32
49
35
73
50
29
S8
66
199
64
33
35
35 71)
46
38
33
217
82
148
40
49
3
12
12
Fort I.araniie («)
4
8
13
2
1
1
5 1
51
9
6
7
4
10
32
11
4
22
5
20
44
97
29
13
21
73 '
16
13
4
4 i
1
10
30
117
111
138
67
73
46
25
36
35
San Antonio
1
1
Fort Polk
Fort Brown (g)
15
6
14
37
6
2
5
7
59
63
33
4
11
112
4
3S
113
71
34 1
Monterey
53
26
8
8
27
24
u
11
83
101
20
(a) Last six months,
(e) First seven months.
(4) L
(./■)
ast sevei
First sevf
1 months
n month
s. (last n
(
ne dayso
-) Lastt
f Januan
en montl
f wanlin
IS.
(
(
1) First eie
g) Last foi
ht months,
r months.
598
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER.
SUMMARY FOR 1850.
WINDS.
WEATHER.
STATIONS.
DATS.
DXTS.
N.
N.E.
E.
S.E.
S.
3.W.
W.
N.W.
Fair.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Snow.
41
78
64
28
16
37
28
84
51
23
25
38
13
34
27
39
29
61
36
66
53
53
64
33
45
68
16
36
45
32
44
43
31
46
27
19
28
18
35
16
39
64
101
21
73
26
37
19
20
35
73
35
46
9
36
43
53
28
34
18
66
55
Tl
61
7
40
46
41
13
21
48
47
44
11
33
13
37
39
SO
34
9
31
30
62
39
23
48
31
24
34
11
6
21
13
13
33
26
4
30
23
2
. 15
35
33
16
71
22
62
9
18
57
55
32
33
47
37
50
55
43
60
30
39
36
18
20
10
8
16
8
46
12
40
41
99
39
31
16
2
66
29
25
IB
30
28
28
25
34
18
15
79
^
13
38
33
39
43
70
17
38
30
31
30
23
9
31
39
75
13
72
52
46
30
31
23
61
85
73
223
154
174
68
39
28
27
5
21
44
16
67
28
14
37
36
90
96
59
43
33
33
36
31
42
31
64
58
33
90
135
69
19
46
39
23
44
40
47
94
34
100
133
59
68
59
8
26
8
60
72
78
17
38
32
58
36
24
65
96
50
42
28
43
65
120
62
65
34
39
49
74
35
9
73
43
40
31
37
37
38
38
31
46
30
52
18
50
39
31
82
32
47
15
7
8
10
38
23
18
64
22
51
101
65
86
31
30
56
15
83
85
69
40
133
53
66
35
14
18
38
24
31
42
57
127
55
53
46
81
66
38
13
33
27
25
18
S
10
7
6
6
12
27
26
51
76
152
76
68
68
60
99
121
89
96
43
20
109
43
31
52
50
47
43
83
9
22
69
31
ir,
29
37
31
37
61
30
45
37
65
54
18
39
39
43
24
41
34
44
15
38
30
67
64
35
147
188
159
191
186
312
300
158
153
170
176
142
161
191
312
206
200
197
178
201
313
188
190
308
189
198
149
161
164
217
189
177
211
247
214
240
234
256
247
238
231
255
390
339
263
199
319
318
177
206
174
179
153
165
307
312
195
158
204
204
174
69
64
83
88
105
80
92
108
70
102
58
86
114
89
46
37
Fort ConMiiutioii
33
9
22
21
19
40
Plait^liurg Harrncks
Madison Harracks
25
36
34
39
27
20
Fort McHenrv
153
94
10
159
165
168
187
164
152
177
175
157
176
167
216
204
109
112
97
93
92
58
6S
85
74
76
80
71
83
1
2
6
7
IS
20
St. Louis Arsenal
16
37
40
52
60
201 79
148 68
176 66
188 I 63
154 j 58
118 : 52
151 ' 84
125 69
131 90
60
46
34
19
28
Fort VV'ortli
8
3
4
4
109
118
137
134
110
75
136
102
166
146
58
49
59
64
60
55
48
46
43
98
4
1
2
1
13
12
35
4
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER.
599
SUMMARY FOR 1851.
STATIONS.
Fort SuUiran
Fort Preble
Fort Constitution
Fort Adams
Fort Trumliull
Fort Hamilton
Fort Columbus
West Point
Watervliet Arsenal
Plaltsburg Barracks
Madison Barracks
Fort Ontario
Fort Niagara
Alleghany .Arsenal
Fort Mifflin ,
Fort SIcHenrj-
Fort Monroe
Fort Moultrie . .
Key West
ForlMyers
Mt. Vernon Arsenal . . .
Baton Rouge Barracks.
Fort Washita
Fort Scott
Jefferson Barracks
St. Louis Arsenal
Newport Barracks ....
Fort Gratiot
Fort Mackinac
Fort Brady
Fort Howard
Fort Snelling
Fori Leavenworth
Fort Laramie
Fort .Atkinson
Fort Worth
Fort Graham
Fort Gates
Fort Croghan
Fort Martin Scott
San Antonio
Fort Brown
Ringgold Barracks
Fort .Mcintosh
Fort Duncan
Fort Lincoln
Albuquerque
San Diego
Benicia
Camp Far West
WINDS.
WEATHER.
S.E.
S.W.
Fair. Cloudy. Rain. Snow.
31
74
57
51
6
44
39
74
39
30
16
6
42
32
46
14
40
56
45
39
46
35
42
52
99
41
68
12
57
Si
81
24
56
65
20
38
23
44
39
30
21
18
50
25
13
7
5
12
33
28
23
29
70
29
43
17
2
24
53
69
60
60
35
55
78
71
55
89
73
65
32
43
19
17
18
40
14
12
21
54
47
42
51
27
45
26
31
40
53
40
21
44
20
38
4
5
25
17
11
20
31
16
sa
20
5
29
SSi
20
19
2
2
8
S3
19
S6
34
14
54
16
131
46
36
35
39
14
32
105
84
24
31
6
16
13
56
19
15
13
16
68
73
58
54
90
18
5
35
22
1
38
25
8 '
18 I
23 '
68 '
53
16
« ,
25
30
43
62
56
49
43
29 '
33 I
43 I
36 '
ID
24 I
11 I
40 '
7
57 I
14
15
76 I
45 !
69
52
91
90
95
106
55
170
9
34
16
63
52
27
54
61
8
33
42
94
96
108
81
35
35
53
18
18
44
37
27
42
45
57
82
76
63
97
63
31
27
81
37
110
11
71
73
36
85
57
65
132
11
63
37
14
44
31
56
48
63
33
50
116
71
54
3S
4(r
68
74
111
64
96
86
63
96
65
12
44
23
19
53
77
28
32
37
64
17
82
48
70
53
25
23
15
115
43
44
15
14
19
10
7
8
IS
18
109
138
24
91
82
79
68
21
37
51
17
117
55
74
27
45
SO
S9
27
26
10
26
35
26
61
25
57
64
40
64
95
85
59
30
101
14
66
56
71
56
111
107
80
104
59
45
22
92
99
34
53
75
47 I
12 I
32
63
25
16
41
36
28
30
33
18
24
116
57
32
64
35
5
8
9
31
25
23
17
36
5
11
14
11
26
15
5
29
5
30
S
6
4
36
19
14
58
20
96
13
12
41
157
191
180
176
169
197
210
149
181
158
149
183
141
143
193
198
192
203
212
248
204
205
^2
187
203
197
190
172
161
129
140
233
169
244
231
281
!B7
237
248
246
249
175
215
219
275
219
166
ffi3
294
303
174
185
189
196
168
155
218
181
217
216
182
•224
o-»
172
167
173
162
153
117
161
160
143
178
162
168
175
193
204
236
225
132
196
121
131
84
138
128
117
119
116
190
150
146
190
146
46
142
179
83
85
98
118
88
94
105
88
83
109
75
106
114
110
82
108
136
86
113
95
95
66
71
76
71
70
81
100
77
63
71
79
33
50
49
79
80
69
68
59
42
55
63
47
39
18
37
51
61
31
39
31
12
21
16
15
29
32
22
47
31
34
26
14
11
6
I
o
4
12
10
8
8
46
69
64
41
36
21
25
21
1
1
1
n
1
1
6
GOO
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER.
SUMMARY FOR 1852.
WINDS.
WEATIlEn.
STATIONS.
DAYS.
DAYS.
i
N.
N.E.
E.
S.E.
S.
S.W.
W.
N.W.
Fair.
j Cloudy.
Rnin.
Snow.
Fort Sullivan
13
68
59
24
58
2
62
41
60
22
11
44
18
17
49
40
13
44
34
52
44
13
60
39
64
41
38
45
39
48
27
6d
28
31
23
89
52
68
30
57
56
46
27
21
18
36
19
33
21
97
60
40
9
1
8
48
41
31
58
99
89
28
60
10
10
22
42
16
46
53
46
78
58
36
64
26
78
22
64
45
31
34
. 49
18
14
68
34
58
35
58
60
83
27
24
10
15
43
24
38
43
23
47
28
67
27
20
14
34
2
29
18
8
33
6
2
24
13
3
I
39
23
77
25
11
10
14
22
75
70
44
47
67
31
93
38
14
25
48
45
21
22
16
39
2
22
24
40
30
11
42
91
11
26
64
39
40
123
190
34
9
15
58
32
27
11
10
16
38
17
32
19
20
15
35
14
61
2
38
, 70
52
38
81
49
102
37
45
26
10
73
65
20
51
36
62
119
73
21
25
16
■&
19
39
23
38
19
52
24
28
28
39
79
60
64
7
10
24
41
33
23
23
73
37
30
4
5
8
1
42
23
93
89
S3
78
46
1 57
82
19
72
16
54
44
15
IK
62
41
1 106
32
71
18
8
45
74
11 '
68
76
85
31
37
44
5
35
81
67
67
47
31
29
7
11
18
22
30
23
61
90
18
96
13
2
4
6
6
45
80
34
80
290
41
109
98
69
54
47
106
87
85
100
41
69
21
58
59
58
78
62
45
16
19
28
41
26
52
94
95
90
30
39
28
28
31
66
106
84
28
109
28
24
17
8
43
27
46
16
16
36
67
17
42
11
99
15
2
85
162
196
199
190
169
184
213
219
168
218
170
156
179
188
199
- 179
199
220
216
239
239
227
255
2K
219
200
192
190
231
228
205
168
264
163
18B
191
191
214
286
287
E74
209
924
212
263
244
924
290
232
309
296
265
216
230
119
204
170
167
176
197
1S3
153
147
198
I 148
, 196
210
187
178
167
187
167
146
150
127
127 •
139
111
134
147
166
174
176
135
138
161
198
102
903
178
175
175
122
80
79
99
157
142
154
103
123
142
76
134
57
70
101
150
136
247
89
104
79
73
B2
99
91
103
117
70
93
153
93
102
108
118
123
04
78
82
92
89
97
85
96
71
98
89
89
83
102
85
44
81
81
60
74
45
68
47
55
64
71
83
41
55
56
58
62
53
49
62
52
59
146
28
Fort Preble
41
54
Fort Independence
Fort Adiims
Fort Trumbull
1 32
27
24
21
99 1 37
23
West Poiut
96
6
41
17
24
34
18
58
39
33
32
57 .
27
44
33
49
19
44
41
28
27
11
9
^
50
27
54
72
13
58
64
37
13
85
50
103
110
127
173
135
35
43
5
23
23
5
91
89
119
17
24
24
25
24
26
9
36
57
40
28
20
41
30
49*
85
53
67
28
50
50
79
25
10
37
44
1
73
59
76
160
46
124
31
69
80
14
8
4
36
69
91
46
16
14
41
Walervliet Ar.-jcnal
37
46
Alleghany Arsenal
35
26
22
19
17
7
9
Key West Barracks
Mount Vrnion Arsenal
Baton Rnuge Barracks
2
2
1
4
11
19
8
12
S6
98
Fort Dod"e
47
22
33
«1
15
1
Fort Belknap
2
3
3
2
Fort Croghan
3
2
7
19
San Diego
25
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER,
601
STJMliUEY FOR 1853.
STATIONS.
WINDS.
Fort Independence...
Fort Hamilton
Fort Colnmbus
West Point
Watervliet Arsenal ....
Fort Niagara
Alleghany Arsenal
Tort McHenry
Fort Monroe
Fort Moultrie
Fort Pierce
Key West Barracks...
Fort Myers
Fort Brooke
Fort Meade
Mount Vernon Arsenal
Fort Towson
Fort Washita
Fort .Smith
Fort Gibson
Jefferson Barracks.,..
St. Louis Arsenal
Newport Barracks
Fort Mackinac
Fort Brady
Fort Ripley
Fort Snelling
Fort Leavenwortli ....
Fort Kearny
Fort Laramie
Fort Arbucklc
Fort Belknap
Phantom Hill
Fort Chadbonrne
Fort Terrctt
Fort Brown
Ringgold Barracks
Fort Mcintosh
Fort Inge , ..
Fort Duncan
Fort Clarke
Fort Fillmore
Fort Conrad
Albufjuerque
Santa Fe
Fort Union
Fort Yuma
San Diego
Fort Juru|ia
Fort Miller
San Francisco
Benicia
Fort Reading
Columbia Barracks ....
Dalles of Columbia. ..
Fort Steilacooni
2«
105
28
31
43
77
19
59
59
96
43
la
54
S3
79
54
19
62
20
55
35
34
29
37
48
66
53
39
75
3
13
41
12
18
32
43
10
48
18
44
91
69
3
S.
3. W.
64
46
56
7
8
35
41
41
71
75
46
52
46
76
56
76
48
16
32
15
17
23
38
23
16
51
41
33
15
38
24
21
25
24
31
37
28
54
67
16
9
24
60
18
46
51
29
31
6
58
9
17
19
22
6
la
46
3
32
10
8
15
16
6
13
11
14
4
1
37
18
13
18
36
34
89
60
70
83
28
114
62
81
13
43
39
21
21
53
9
15
7
19
a
33
7
28
16
157
155
30
17
23
60
28
13
11
69
15
97
9
30
19
31
34
37
27
17
14
12
26
29
46
59
45
28
45
38
61
25
41
25
48
21
11
39
44
19
44
63
45
28
8
49
58
33
30
190
87
110
209
58
84
165
35
12
19
17
20
31
36
15
61
17
9
5
43
13
47
23
97
86
56
33
18
24
34
83
31
26
35
33
33
52
124
38
91
127
46
91
43
46
68
43
17
77
2
106
73
143
127
1
39
114
3
1
9
55
3o
37
65
19
18
45
47
1
24
18
13
49
12
63
«4
79
20
31
38
53
39
103
70
8
12
23
32
23
18
2
25
22
6
27
40
70
27
41
48
63
101
24
6
44
20
41
15
9
56
2
9
4
64
49
4
21
37
32
90
197
22
78
22
7
8
140
N. W.
WEATHER.
Cloudy. Rain. Snow.
45
26
46
12
112
96
40
65
13
29
43
9
49
26
46
18
8
29
39
4
80
50
20
75
49
37
26
26
as
29
8
13
36
13
36
22
5
3
4
4
13
16
81
85
51
36
51
70
19
64
110
236
4
80
104
47
52
108
66
71
47
41
33
46
59
28
23
17
29
43
16
59
7
11
23
14
16
22
39
78
17
41
49
101
46
63
16
15
11
18
17
31
19
42
24
33
21
24
28
7
45
68
79
12
47
19
76
1
10
60
35
36
197
157
81
21
211
154
103
14
233
IS
83
13
315
151
109
38
334
131
93
28
300
165
75
33
172
193
109
31
205
160
83
11
203
162
99
5
243
122
80
1
267
98
68
353
112
93
258
107
HI
241
124
87
213
152
119
256
109
86
2
192
173
87
*
166
199
68
9
330
145
64
3
204
161
79
8
237
128
SS
2i29
136
51
8
200
165
81
9
173
193
67
32
195
170
74
71
217
148
58
33
350
115
59
29
210
155
60
n
230
135
S3
18
217
148
57
24
298
67
68
4
261
104
52
4
266
99
44
6
246
119
63
5
262
103
SS
7
230
135
49
183
182
85
238
127
68
251
114
59
1
274
91
54
I
173
192
53
2
332
33
41
2
309
56
41
6
307
58
96
4
307
58
S3
14
291
74
55
18
297
68
19
366
99
33
308
57
25
317
48
^
184
176
64
<m
137
49
276
89
63
124
341
110
3
237
128
59
11
163
303
131
3
S. 96
602
SUMMARIES OF OBSERVATIONS ON WINDS AND WEATHER.
SUMMARY FOR 1854.
STATIONS.
WINDS.
WEATHER.
S. W.
W.
N. W. Fair.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Snow.
Fort Independence,.
Fort Hamilton
Fort Columbus.... . .
West Point
Waicrvliet Arsenal..
Alleghany Arsenal...
Fort IMcIlenry
Fort Monroe
Fort Moultrie
Fort Pierce
Key West Barracks. .
Fort Myers
Fort Brooke
Fort Barrancas
Mt. Vernon Arsenal.
Fort Washita
Fort Smith
Fort Gibson
JelTcrson B.arracks. ..
St. Louis Arsenal . ..
Newport Barracks. . .
Fort Mackinac
Fort Brady
Fort Snclling
Fort Ripley
Fort Kidgely
Fort Leavenworth .. .
Fort Uilcy
Fort Kearny
Fort Laramie
Fort Arbucklc
Fort Belknap
Fort Chadbourne ....
Fort McKavett
Fort Brown
Ringgold Barracks. . .
Fort Mcintosh
Fort Inge
Fort Duncan
Fort Clarke
Fort Fillmore
Fort Thome
Fort Conrad (Craig) .
Albuquerque
Santa Fe
Fort Union
Fort Detiance
Fort Yuma
Fort Miller
San Francisco
Bcnicia Barracks . . . .
Fort Reading
Fort Humboldt
Fort Vancouver
Fort Steilacoom ....
45
6
16
18
34
50
57
13
30
2a
43
75
9
«
54
20
58
32
34
34
41
36
37
29
17
63
28
65
43
24
28
26
48
27
45
12
23
10
39
66
88
20
86
51
71
3
21
5
83
29
39
66
67
7
1
41
49
54
61
73
95
52
65
36
63
24
S3
11
9
16
10
23
14
32
SO
34
27
12
25
5
19
31
19
SI
26
17
18
55
11
31
14
34
31
37
S6
22
17
35
17
29
17
17
1
7
19
10
2
4
17
13
77
36
42
64
23
66
15
20
37
73
21
34
37
47
60
67
13
11
93
31
17
22
93
20
7
29
28
44
48
26
138
4
74
17
30
25
17
32
12
2
21
64
4
38
3
10
2
23
29
28
28
25
20
20
17
6
23
79
65
18
50
31
80
51
37
48
37
13
3
37
16
43
79
56
44
23
22
3
31
151
47
97
94
123
175
52
223
149
29
47
19
14
50
41
IS
14
14
18
33
14
14
35
114
91
41
15
14
46
16
25
25
27
101
i)4
115
78
49
43
40
64
72
47
49
36
105
44
17
68
48
IS
63
58
80
32
3
18
23
38
62
94
21
38
93
S3
50
21
10
S4
2
15
99
66
18
28
61
44
133
63
45
28
28
46
34
35
39
35
13
19
40
20
16
34
41
38
40
41
10
35
34
18
49
61
10
3
6
78
4S
27
19
49
35
49
27
44
109
31
24
9
43
57
50
38
17
36
37
78
18
SI
27
11
68
41
18
19
16
4
56
59
82
S9
52
35
37
35
27
38
57
123
34
6
6
14
17
9
4
1
1
50
79
68
23
36
40
47
47
44
130
Z13
12
1
15
54
83
160
61 I
56 I
45
27
62
24
44
38
15 ,
17 ,
32
77
69 I
26
14
13
20
23
6
73
8
45
44
89
63
19
57
12
25
24
16
17
26
16
28
5
59
39
16
57
42
21
50
62
45
52
15
33
28
42
19
18
166
207
196
200
237
186
206
251
230
159
230
268
261
175
224
214
207
207
217
228
222
lri9
183
201
199
184
236
287
241
284
284
196
243
239
210
223
238
226
212
!21
357
355
319
307
303
274
312
291
246
181
252
266
243
158
180
199
158
169
165
128
179 I
1S9
114
135
206 I
135
97
104
190
141 j
151
158
158 i
148
137
143
206
182
164
166
181
129
78
124
81
81
169
IS
126
155
142
127
139
153
144
6
8
46
58
62
91
53
74
88
184
113
99
122
176
185
94
74
95
70
107
8S
81
99
121
103
89
112
90
104
84
91
85
64
59
61
78
75
72
71
77
63
32
58
60
59
57
61
54
71
53
59
54
56
42
41
37
51
55
67
52
66
15
45
72
44
55
68
23
35
2»
31
17
»
3
5
3
8
6
10
44
67
32
32
30
11
6
15
31
1
I
1
2
5
16
13
25
2
2
2
11
STATISTICS
OF
THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
STATISTICS OF THE WAE WITH MEXICO.
The regulations for the Medical Department of the army require all medical officers, when
serving with troops in the field, to render monthly, to the medical director at the seat of war,
and quarterly to the Surgeon General, "reports of sick and wounded, and of deaths, and of
certificates for discharge for disability." The medical director is also required to make to the
Surgeon General, monthly, a consolidated report of sick and wounded, from the several reports
made to him.
The records of the Surgeon General's office attest that these regulations have been faithfully
obeyed, and that the required rei)orts have been made with remarkable regularity and accuracy.
Notwithstanding the general completeness of the returns, a very extended and careful examina-
tion of the records has proved it to be impossible to compile from them correct abstracts of the
sickness and mortality in the army during the war with Mexico. The sources of error are nu-
merous, and cannot be eliminated. In some instances, important returns failed to reach the
Medical Bureau, having been captured by the enemy ; the same cases of disease were frequently
reported more than once — first, perhaps, on the returns of surgeons of regiments, and again
from one or more general hospitals to which the soldier had been senior transferred. The con-
solidated monthly reports of the medical directors served to remove, in part, this source of error,
but it unfortunately appears that those officers failed in many instances to receive the required
reports from hospital and regimental surgeons, and, consequently, their returns are incomplete.
Other sources of error might be mentioned, but enough has been stated to show the nature of
the difficulties opposing the desired compilation.
Abandoning the effort to collate the vital statistics of the war exclusively from the records of
the Medical Bureau, recourse was had to the muster-rolls of the army on file in the Adjutant
General's office; from which source, chiefly, though aided somewhat by the medical returns, the
following tables, (abstracts Nos. 1 and 2), exhibiting the statistics of commissioned officers and
enlisted men by regiments, have been compiled.
The attempt to include the old army in these tables was reluctantly abandoned. The diffi-
culties to be encountered were much greater than with the ten new regiments and volunteer
corps, in which the original roll of muster into service, and final muster-roll for discharge, gave
two fixed points ; another almost insurmountable difficulty in regard to the old army consisted
in the necessity of accounting for the numerous detachments of recruits which were from time to
time forwarded to the seat of war.
It may, however, be briefly stated, that, exclusive of " discharges by expiration of service,"
the total loss in the old army, by deaths, discharges, resignations, and desertions, was 7,993, in
an aggregate force of 15,736; being 50.79 per cent, for the whole service of 26 months, or a
monthly loss of 1.95 per cent.
In the ten new regiments, using tlie same basis, the total loss was 3,839, in an aggregate
strength of 11,186 ; being 34 22 per cent, for the whole service of 15 months, or a monthly
loss of 2.28 per cent.
ti06 STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
In the regiments and corps of volunteers, the total loss was 20,385, in an aggregate force of
73,260 ; being 27.82 per cent, for the average period of service, (10 months,) or a monthly loss of
2.78 per cent.
While it is thus shown that the total loss, from all causes, sustained during the war, was
much greater in the old army than in either the ten new regiments, or volunteer troops, the
relative loss for each month in which those forces were respectively in service is greatest in the
regiments and corps of volunteers.
Confining the comparison to the "killed in battle" and " died of wounds," it is found that
the old army sustained a loss of 792, or 5.03 per cent, of the aggregate force employed; the
ten new regiments, a loss of 143, or 1.27 per cent, of their number; and the regiments of
volunteers lost 613 of their aggregate strength, or 0.83 per cent.
Of the aggregate discharged "by order and civil authority," the larger proportion, by far,
were by "order;" that is, by the order of the commanding general or other military authority;
and it is well known that these orders were given to men with enfeebled or broken-down consti-
tutions^ who, under ordinary circumstances, could only have been discharged on "surgeon's
certificate for disability." It is therefore deemed just, to consider all the discharges "by
order" and "for disability" as consequent upon disease or wounds. If, then, we take the
aggregate of the discharges under those two heads, together with the "ordinary" and "acci-
dental" ' deaths, Ave will have the most correct expression of the total loss sustained by disease
and the exposures and hardships of an active campaign, independent of losses in conflicts with
the enemy.
Assuming that basis, it is ascertained that the old army, in a period of 26 months, and with
an aggregate force of 15,736, lost 4,917 officers and men; being 31.24 per cent, for the whole
service, or 1.20 per cent, per month.
The ten new regiments, in a service of 15 months, and with an aggregate strength of 11,186,
lost 3,002 ofiicers and men; being 26.83 per cent, for the whole service, or 1.79 per cent, per
month.
The volunteer force, in an average service of 10 months, and with an aggregate strength of
73,260, lost 15,617 officers and men; being for the whole service 21.31 per cent., or 2.13 per
cent, per month.
These deductions are made in no spirit of invidious comjiarison. The old army was longer in
the field, and participated in more battles, than other portions of the military establishment,
so that its total loss in killed and wounded is relatively greater than that of other corps. On
the other hand, the statistical tables which follow, show that the loss sustained by the "addi-
tional force" and volunteers in some of the battles in which they were engaged, was greater
than that of the old army.
The point to which particular attention is invited, is the disparity in the loss by disease in the
several forces ; the monthly ratio, the true comparison in this instance, being in the volunteer
corps nearly twice as high as in the old army.
The examinations necessary to the compilation of this series of statistics were nearly com-
pleted, when a copy of a report of the Adjutant General to the Secretary of War, dated December
3d, 1849, prepared in answer to a resolution of the House of Representatives of July 31, 1848^ call-
ing for "information relative to the military forces employed in the late war with Mexico,"
was shown to the compiler. No extra numbers of this valuable report were printed, and it is
now exceedingly difiicult to obtain a copy. In view of the general interest which attaches to
this subject in the army, a portion of the very extended series of tabular statements embraced
in that report are herewith submitted.
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
607
No. 1. — Abstract exhibiting, by regiments, the statistics of commissioned officers serving in the army
of the United Stales during the war ivith Mexico.
REOIUENTS.
S.:
3
ii,i.
-J
o
=3£S
©
>i
P.c
= ■="= H
J^
M
e 5
2-3
S'o
^ s »"
■i
o
< £
<
r-
c-
3d dragoons .
9th infantry .
10th. .do.."..
11th. .do
12th. .do....
13th. -do
14th.. do
15th.. do...
16th. -do...
Yoltigeurs
1st Massachusetts foot
1st regiment Pennsylvania foot
2d.. do ...do
2d Sew York foot..
1st battalion Xew Jersey foot
Ist battalion Md. and D. C. foot
2d do do
1st independent company mounted .
1st regiment Virginia volunteers, foot
1st North Carolina foot
1st South Carolina foot
1st Alabama foot
1st battalion Alabama foot
2d .-do
3d do
1st regiment Georgia foot
1st battalion Georgia horse
1st independent comp. Georgia horse.
1st battalion Georgia foot
1st Mississippi foot
2d do do -
1st batt;iliou Mississippi foot
1st Louisiana volunteers, foot
do do
.do.
-do.
.do.
.do.
-do
-do.
2d ...
3d ...
4th...
5th...
6th do do
Blanchard' s company foot
Grally ' s artiller)-.
Biscoe's battalion mounted ,
De Russy's regiment foot
Fiesca's battalion foot
1st Arlians.as horse
1st independent company horse
2 companies Florida foot
Johnson' s Texas foot rifles
Hay's cavalry, Texas
Chevallie's battery, Texas .-
Hay's mounted rifles, Tex;is
Young' s rangers, Texas
Wood's rangers, Texas
McCuUough's company, Texas
Gray's company, Te.xas
Black Beaver's comp. (Indians, I Texas
Leefield's company, Texas
Lamar's company, Texas
McCuUough's company, Texas
1st Kentucky horse
1st Kentucky foot -.;
2d do'
3d do :
608
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
ABSTRACT— Continued.
REGIMENTS.
•ith Kentucky foot
1st independent company foot.
1st Tennessee cavalry
1st Tennessee foot
2d do
3d...
4th..
5th..
.do.
.do.
.do.
1st independent company mounted.
1st Ohio foot.
2d do
3d do
4th.. -do
5 th . . .do
1st independent company foot..
1st independent company horse.
1st Indiana foot
2d .do
3d do. ..
4th do...
6th do...
1st Illinois foot.
2d do
3d do
4th do.
6th do
2 companies, mounted
1 company Michigan foot.
1 regiment do
li
u
-CS
54
4
46
55
39
54
49
54
4
63
51
52
58
67
4
4
56
54
56
55
49
56
6fi
52
44
68
10
4
44
s
Hi.
n
o
vSS
O
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=-'
f
I|i4
J,
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o
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s|l.i
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<
h
H
48
6
H
4
lU
38
8
lis
33
22
12
25
14
12
44
10
n
41
8
10
51
3
H
4
14
47
16
12J
41
10
12
47
5
12
48
10
13i
52
5
11
4
None.
9
4
None.
14
48
8
12
46
8
12
45
10
12
44
11
14
46
3
n
47
9
12
43
23
12
36
16
12
32
12
lOJ
44
24
12
8
2
lOJ
4
None.
12
39
5
8
11.30
17. .39
40.00
35.90
18.51
16.32
5.55
25.90
19.60
9. 61
17.24
8.77
12.48
14.74
18.18
20.00
6.12
16. 24
3t. 81
30.80
27.27
35.29
20.00
11.26
SS
o
g
^ £
s
^i
>.
o"^
A
o
^
H
1.30
1.08
1.49
3.33
2.99
1.89
1.63
.66
2.07
1.63
.80
1.27
.79
1.19
3
1.22
None.
1.51
6
1.81
1
.64
3
1. .35
None.
2.90
2
2.56
3
2.59
5
2.94
14
1.90
1
1.40
4
.46
64.55
7.69
3.70
4.08
.63
3.92
.52
.34
.36
.67
.09
.03
.45
.64
.30
.40
.05
.32
.04
.02
.03
.04
10.99
.91
.55
.05
6.12
.64
3.33
.27
5.77
.48
11.25
1.16
20.58
1.71
.10
.09
9.09
1.13
No. 2.
Abstract exhibiting, by regiments, the statistics of enlisted men serving in the army of the United
States during the ivar with Mexico.
REOt.NlENTS.
3d dragoons
9ih infantry.
10th do
11th do
12th do
13th do
14th do
15th do
16th do
Voltigeurs
1st Massachusetts foot
2d New York foot
1st Pennsylvania foot
Id do do.-
2 battalion New .Jersey foot
1st batt. Maryland & Dist. Col. foot
2d. ...do do do
o .
eg
It
1.2
Aegrcgatc mustered out
of service.
•a „ r
llll
J"
o
S
t
u
o
f
1
c
1
1
Total 1089 per cent, by
disease.
S3
>>
O.S
s
o
1179
765
414
15
35.15
2.34
266
22.66
1.50
1043
559
484
14?
46.42
3.16
332
31.83
2.17
1201
905
296
15
24.90
1.66
169
14.06
.93
1364
734
630
15
46.18
3.07
514
37.31
2.48
1181
663
518
12
43.87
3.65
450
38.14
3.17
1023
640
383
12
37. 43
3.11
322
31.48
2.62
1066
581
485
13i
45.51
3.37
403
30.76
2.26
1341
702
639
14*
47.65
3.32
523
39.00
2.72
1323
974
349
l4
26.40
1.82
269
20.33
1.40
1M65
701
664
16
48.66
3.04
519
38.02
2.37
981
501
480
17
48.92
2.87
176
17.90
1.05
1063
589
474
17*
44.60
2.55
276
25.96
1.48
1021
535
486
19J
47.61
2.34
364
35.66
1.82
1151
585
566
17J
49.18
2.76
402
34.92
1.96
418
267
151
13
36.91
2.84
62
14.97
1.15
537
330
207
12
38.55
3.21
129
24.02
2.00
732
493
239
13
32.03
2.46
153
20.90
1.60
STATISTICS OF THE WAE WITH MEXICO.
609
ABSTRACT— Continued.
REGIMENTS.
1st independent co.,Md. & DC, m'td
1st regiment Virginia volunteers
1st Xorth Carolina foot
1st South Carolina foot
1 regiment Alabama foot
1 battalion do
1 do do
1 do do
1 regiment Georgia foo(
1 battalion do., horse
1 independent co., Georgia horse...
1 battalion Georgia foot..
2 companies Florida foot
1st Mississippi foot
2d do
1 battalion Mississippi foot
1st Louisiana foot
2d -.do
3d-- do
4th -do __
5th -do-
6th do
Blanchard's company
Gally's battalion
Biscoe's battalion, mounted
De Kussy's battalion, foot
1 battalion Fiesca's foot
1st regiment Arkansas mounted
1 independent company, mounted
John.son's Texas foot rifles
Hays' cavalry
Che vallie's battalion
Hays' mounted rifles-
Young's rangers
Wood's rangers
McCullough's company
Gray's company
Black Beaver's company
Leefield's company
Lamar's company
McCullough's company.
1 Kentucky mounted volunteers
1st Kentucky volunteers, foot
2d do do
3d do do
4th do do
1st independent comp. vols., foot.
1st Tennessee cavalry
1st Tennessee foot
2d do.
3d
.do
4th
.do
5th
.do
1 indep't
1st Ohio
comp'y cavalry,
volunteers, foot
-do do-..
-do do
-do do
mounted--
2d
3d
4th
5th do do
1st Indiana company, foot
1 Indiana comp;my. horse
1st independent volunteers, foot
2d do do do
3d do -do do
S. 96 77
107
1.228
SOI
1,034
910
5(;n
293
284
911
507
104
475
191
942
1,018
443
695
893
795
770
847
833
93
199
610
1.050
623
800
100
755
598
497
666
661
816
87
90
37
72
86
164
830
794
915
1,049
1,087
85
927
1,054
701
954
801
1,046
132
865
770
814
1.030
1. 102
103
90
801
850
867
64
851
581
305
613
405
258
253
535
334
37
186
100
428
571
343
500
739
094
040
750
046
69
155
414
675
360
595
76
674
413
371
481
636
524
74
68
35
41
79
149
493
520
580
742
829
66
653
367
332
065
593
850
99
525
516
615
709
750
52
81
465
594
024
. £ = =
43
377
310
609
297
104
35
31
.376
233
67
289
91
514
447
100
135
156
101
124
91
187
24
44
202
375
263
205
24
81
185
126
185
25
292
13
22
2
31
7
15
337
274
335
307
258
19
274
687
369
289
208
196
33
340
254
199
321
346
51
15
396
262
243
9
19
18
18J
Hi
l\
llj
11
131
13
ll.llf
12
18
8
3
3
3
3
3
3
n
3
12
18.V
13
Hi
10|
2i
m
25
3A
12
12
2
lot
12'
9
i2k
12
12i
8J
8*
111
lis
12
12
H
10
8J
14
m
12'
12
13^
11
9
14
12
12
12
i I
40.19
30.70
34.92
64.72
32.64
18.27
11.43
41.24
41.00
46. 43
00.80
47.66
54.38
43.91
22.57
19.42
17. 43
12.70
10. 10
10.64
22.45
25.80
24.67
32.47
35.71
42.22
25.63
24.03
10.74
31.23
25.35
27.77
3.78
36.27
14.94
24.45
5.40
43.06
8.14
9.15
40.62
34. 53
35. 07
39.27
23.73
22.35
29.55
65.18
52.65
30.29
25.97
18.74
25.00
39.29
32.99
24.44
31.17
31.40
49.52
15.62
45.99
30.60
28.36
4.46
1.01
1.72
3.49
2.83
2.74
3.81
3.58
.3. 73
4.77
4.08
4.21
4.54
2.43
2. 82
6.47
5.81
4.23
5.36
3.54
7.48
2.71
8.22
2.70
1.93
2.78
2.23
2.28
4.77
2.78
1.60
3.42
1.04
9.30
1.24
2.03
2.70
4.10
.67
1.10
3.24
2.87
2.80
3.44
2.79
1.94
2.51
5.43
4.38
3.10
2.59
2.20
1.78
3.14
2.74
2.04
2.49
2.85
5.50
1. 11
3.83
2.55
2.36
18
274
273
509
273
88
47
329
197
63
232
76
421
377
47
55
69
22
9
28
16
10
8
116
152
119
153
16
30
155
04
10
17
173
10
9
None.
13
1
5
202
188
219
259
212
13
255
628
326
210
183
145
30
231
183
139
173
145
14
11
355
189
220
16.80
22.31
30.64
49.23
30.00
15.47
18.29
36.08
35.21
60.60
49.34
39.79
44.70
37.03
10.61
7.91
12.97
3.01
.85
.33
.19
a. 11
.40
10.80
14.47
19.07
19.31
16.00
3.98
2.59
1.28
2.40
2.57
21.20
11.49
16.30
=-3
1.86
L17
1.70
2.66
2.60
2.32
2.76
3. 13
3.20
4.49
3.79
3.52
3.72
2.05
1.32
2.63
4.32
1.00
. 11
. 11
.06
1. 16
.13
.90
.78
1.46
1.68
1.42
L76
.23
.81
.29
.96
5.43
.95
1.35
1.80
.17
.86
.07
3.04
.33
31.57
2.52
23.67
1.80
21.20
1.93
24.68
2.90
19.50
2.29
15.29
1.33
27.51
2.34
59.59
4.96
46.51
3.87
22. 01
2.25
22.84
2.28
13.86
L63
22. 72
1.62
26.72
2.13
23.76
L98
17.07
L42
16.79
1.24
13.17
1.19
13.59
1.51
11.45
.81
41.28
3.43
22. 07
L83
25.38
2.11
CIO
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
ABSTRACT— Continued .
S^
S
t» tC'J'
^
S
=
^Sg
"
&
-.t
2 .
F^r'
E
1
REGIMENTS.
fl
V
1
o
a
1
1
■5
1. «
11
|:e
fc
£5 a 3
g
•a
s
ti
s
o
o
o
o
< ""
<
t-
H
y
►J
>J
H
ij
4th independent volunteers, foot
928
658
270
14
29.09
2.07
215
23. 16
1.65
5th do do do
934
681
253
9i
27.09
2.63
205
21.94
2. .30
1st Illinois volunteers, foot
892
697
195
Hi
21.86
1.98
102
11.43
1.01
2d do do -
908
662
246
Hi
27.08
2.35
143
15.75
1.36
3d do do
913
567
346
lOJ
37.90
3.60
322
35.27
2.93
4th do do-
813
508
305
lOi
37.52
3.57
171
31.03
2.00
6th do do -
1,038
568
470
12i
45.28
3.62
415
43.32
3.46
2 companies mounted Illinois vols -.
198
138
60
lOj
33. 33
2.17
57
25.91
2.46
1st Michigan volunteers, foot
1,040
672
369
n
28. 15
3.55
188
19.79
2.63
[The tables which follow are from the report of the Adjutant General of December 3, 1849.]
General view of the subjects of inquiry, showing the aggregate of the regulars and volunteers em-
ployed during the icar, toith their average duration of service, and the casualties incident to each
description of force.
roRCES
EMPLOYED
ti MCSTERED
INTO SER-
VICE.
DISCHARGES,
DEATHS.
WOUNDED IN
BATTLE.
m
c:
«
e
bo
■s
a
g
o
1
<:
it
il
S O
•2£
s
1
1
i
It
CJ —
•a
O
o
<
Killed in
battle.
Died of
wounds.
Toinl killed
and died of
wounds.
Ordinary.
B
0)
'o
<
= 1
Hi
fc. c3 gj
2
bn
<
1
O
.
o
e
i5
1
O
i
i
%
■s
o
g
15,736
11,186
Mos
26
15
1,561
12
1,782
767
373
114
3,716
893
41
5
422
62
22
5
307
71
63
10
729
133
49
36
2,574
2,055
139
30
3,554
2,264
118
36
1,685
236
1,803
272
37
92
2,247
602
Aggregate of regular army..
Volunteer force.
Genera! siair.
26,922
272
73,260
....
1,573
2,549
487
47
1,969
4,609
47
9,169
46
1
46
484
467
27
378
100
73
1
46
862
567
85
16
(*)
4,629
169
5,818
17
7,061
154
1,921
2,075
129
48
279
2,649
Regiments and corps
10
50,573
7,200
*6,256
192
129
1,189
1,318
3,876
Aggregate regular and vol-
100,454
....
52,146
9,749
2,503
13,825
93
951
27
478
120
1,429
101
10,885
361
12,896
283
3,110
3,393
456
6,725
* In the reports of the deaths of volunteers of ordinary disease, officers are not discriminated.
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
611
General return of the number of commissioned officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, artifi-
cers, and privates of the regular army, killed, xvounded, and died of ivounds in the several con-
flicts with the Mexican troops, in the year 1846.
REGIMENTS AND CORPS.
KILLED IN BATTLE.
WOL-NDED
If
li
<: =
DIED
nf WOUNDS.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Affair of the Teeommitring partii under Captain Ihomlon,
111 drai/oons, on the left bank of the Rio (Irande, April
25, 1846.
Total
1
10
11
6
6
17
BaUU of Palo Alio, Texas, May?,, 1S4G.
5
5
4
3
1
5
17
5
5
1
3
2
5
17
S
5
5
2
4
3
5
19
1
1
2a ./....do. ' '--- -
1
I
......
3d do
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
4th do
4th regiment infantry
5th do ^ . .
2
1
8th do
2
2
5
5
Total
5
5
3
40
43
48
2
8
10
BaOle of Resaca de la Palma, Texas, May 9, 1846.
1
7
2
8
2
6
2
4
5
5
6
21
28
6
2
4
6
6
6
24
35
14
4
4
6
8
10
33
43
1
1
3d do (
4th do. ! .. .
1
1
......
7
1
1
2
3
9
7
2
4
9
8
4th do
1
1
3
5
1
5th do
3
8th do.
1
5
Total
3
30
33
12
77
89
122
11
11
Battle of Monterey, Mexico, September 21, 22, and 23,
1846.
1
1
2
1
2
22
8
28
1
1
2
1
2
22
8
31
1
1
2
2
2
26
12
43
1
51
36
10
9
9
1
1
1st reginipnt nrtillery
1
1
2d do
1
3d do
4
4
12
13
11
4
4
12
1
18
12
......
......
3
1
3
4th do.
1
2
2d do
1
5
1
3d do -- - .. .-
2
1
1
2
1
31
23
9
6
6
33
24
10
8
7
1
1
1
3
2
4th do
5th do
4
7th do !-----
1
1
1
2
8th . -do..
1
._■------
Total
8
47
55
12
138
150
205
5
8
13
Siege of Fort Brovm, May 4 to 9, 1846.
1
1
6
1
1
7
1
1
8
1
1
1
1
^
1
Total
1
1
1
2
7
9
10
1
1
612
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
GENERAL RETUKN— Continued.
REniMCMTB AND CORPS.
KILLED IN BATTLE.
WOUNDED.
Sirs
11
|1
DIED OF WODNDS.
Ofliceis.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
1
Men. 1 Total.
AfairofSan Fatqual, CaUfomia, December, 6, 1846.
General fitaff
1
1
......
1
1
11
1
1
28
1
3 14
17
Total
3 14
17
2
11
13
30
Incidental loss.
April 19, 1846
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
April 21, 1846
May 18 1846
Total
3
3
3
Recapitulation of loss in battle of the regular ai-my, by regiments and corps, in the campaign
of 1846.
SILLED ID BATTLE.
WOONDED.
II
DIED
OF WOUNDS.
heoiments and corps.
Officeis.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
General staff
1
1
2
......
2
1
3
......
19
6
8
26
16
28
1
1
2
11
19
6
9
28
17
31
1
1
2
28
38
7
11
33
22
43
1
59
49
49
17
71
3
Engineers _
1
1
3
2
14
17
1
2
5
5
12
"lb"
15
9
2
10
17
19
1
2
5
5
12
1
20
17
9
2
12
3
2d ..do...
......
......
1
1
3
4
1
2(1 do
1
3d . do
4
4th do..
4
2
2d do
1
5
2
3d do -
4th do
5th .do
3
2
4
3
8
36
30
36
12
51
39
32
40
15
69
1
2
i
1
4
3
"io"
2
6
3
7th do
1
8th do
2
3
10
Aggregate in the campaign of 1846
18
107
125
31
279
310
435
8
27
35
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
613
General return of the number of commissioned officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, artif-
icers, and privates of the regular armij, killed, tcounded, and died of icoxmds, in the several
conflicts with the Mexican troops, in the year 1847.
REGIMENTS AND CORPS.
KILLED IN BATTLE.
WOUNDED.
h
ll
DIED OF WO0ND8.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
BaUU of Buma Vista, Fehrmry 22 and 23, 1847.
1
1
2
1
1
1
.....
1
18
7
2
6
2
19
7
3
6
2
20
11
2d do
.
3d regiment artillery
1
4
1
4
1
1
1
4tli do .
1
Total
1
5
6
5
31
36
42
2
2
Investment and sieye of Vera Cruz, commencing 9th and
ending 2m March, 1847.
2d reffiment dragoons
1
1
1
1
1
4
5
1
9
2
1
1
2
5
5
1
9
2
1
1
2
6
6
1
10
5
1
2
2
1
1
Regiment mounted riflemen _ _ . _
2d- do
1
2
1
3
1
1
1
3d do
1
1
4th do
2d regiment infantry ---- - _-_.
1
1
8th do
Total - -
2
5
7
1
25
26
33
3
3
Battle of Oerro Gordo, April 18 and 19, 1847.
1
1
"i'l"
45
3
14
26
42
1
1
1
63
45
3
16
27
43
1
1
1
1
74
55
3
21
32
52
1
2d regiment dragoons
1
2
Kegiment mounted riflemen _.._
1
10
10
11
10
2
8
1
10
1st regiment artillery. - ,
1
4th do
9d regimenf, infanfry
5
5
9
5
5
9
2
1
1
1
3d- - - do
1
9
1
7th . do
9
A'oltigeurs _._
Total
1
39
40
9
192
201
241
2
19
21
Battles of Contreras and Chunibusco, Mexico, August 19
and 20, 1847.
Engineers ._
4
10
......
1
11
39
75
26
31
70
26
6
54
79
11
33
42
4
11
1
1
3
12
42
76
27
32
75
29
6
57
81
13
34
46
1
4
15
5
2
6
16
55
83
34
36
90
34
7
63
90
17
36
49
1
Ordnance
4
4
3
4
9
7
7
4
13
5
1
6
9
3
2
3
i
4
4
1
3
4
13
7
7
4
15
5
1
6
9
4
2
3
1
1
......
1
3
1
1
1
5
3
3
2
2
1
4
1
1
1
2d do.
1
3d do
Regiment mounted riflemen
1
1
......
4
1
1st regiment artillery.
2d do
4
1
3
3d do.
4
4th do.. .
2d regiment infantry . . .
2
1
1
2
.3d do
4th do... 1 ^_- -
i
1
3
9
1
4
1
5th do
3
6th do
9
7th do
1
1
Sth do
4
9th do
10th do
614
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
GENERAL EETURN— Continued.
REGIMENTS AND CORPS.
KILLED IN BATTLE.
WODIDED.
1-d
DIEI
or WOONDS.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Battlta of Contreras and Churubusco — Continued.
11th regiment infantry
1
2
1
6
2
1
2
1
8
2
......
5
7
22
1
CI
4
7
24
1
66
4
8
26
2
74
6
12th do
14tli do
loth do
Voltigeurs
2
1
1
Total
10
D6
106
39
614
653
759
4
28
31
BaUle of El Molino del Rey, Mexico, September 8, 1847.
Engineers
2
......
2
1
2
......
4
3
10
3
3
5
2
......
25
12
56
26
3
34
98
47
106
30
6
95
2
1
28
2
13
58
26
3
37
102
50
116
33
9
100
2
2
2
34
2
13
65
31
5
45
133
73
146
43
10
100
2
Ordnance .
1
6
1
6
2d regiment dragoons _.
4
4
3d do
Regiment mounted ridemen
2d regiment artillery -
1
2
6
3
2
8
27
23
30
8
1
7
5
2
8
31
23
30
10
1
2
6
7
8
3d do
7
4th do
......
1
2
8
8
8
21
8
5th do
4
10
6th do
9
8th do -
23
11th do
2
14th do
1
I
Voltigeurs
1
I
Total
9
115
124
43
639
582
706
8
63
71
Battle of ChapuUepec and City of Mexico, Seplemher 12,
13, and It, 1847. •
Enc;ineers
3
1
7
2
1
8
53
23
17
5
35
33
48
35
9
2
6
17
22
8
17
37
21
4
9
60
25
17
5
37
35
48
38
10
2
6
19
22
12
18
43
24
4
9
68
31
24
5
49
42
58
49
13
4
13
21
30
16
23
48
31
Ordnance
Eegiment mounted riflemen
8
6
7
8
6
7
6
6
1st regiment artillery
2d do
9
9
■M do
4th .do..
2
10
7
10
10
2
2
6
2
7
4
5
5
6
12
7
10
11
3
2
7
2
8
4
5
5
7
2
2
......
1
......
......
1
6
3
3
3
2d regiment infantry
3d do
......
3
6
4th do
5th do
1
1
7
6th .do..
2
3
4
2
3
4
1
8th. do
9th do
1
14lh do
3
3
Voltigeurs
Marine corps
1
Total.
7
97
104
37
397
434
538
1
39
40
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
615
Los6 {regular army) in incidental affairs and skirmishes with the enemy in 1847-
REGIMENTS AND CORPS.
KILLED l.N BATTLE.
WOUNDED.
S-6
= 3
DIED OF WOCNDS.
Officers
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers
Men. Total.
Affair of Brigadier General Kearvy, United State^i army,
at Sun Gabriel, Calif urnia, January 8 and 9, 1847.
1st rcgiiuent dragoons
1
9
1
1
10
1
1
United States navy
1
1
1
11
1
Marine corps
1
Total
1
1
1
11
12
13
1
. ----|
Incidental loss, January l.'J, 1847 __
1
1
'l
Affair of Colonel .?. Priee, at I'uehlo de Taos, Mexico,
February 4, 1847.
Ist regiment dragoons
5
5
1
18
19
1
2* i 1 -
1
Affair under Brevet Colonel J. S. Mcintosh, 5th infantry,
June 6, 1847.
3d regiment dragoons _
4
4
6
1
4
4
i
10
1
6
4
3d regiment infantry
1
4th do -
2
2
i
loth do
' 1 ■■ ■
I 1
Total
6
6
15
15
21
1
Affair of Colonel lie Hussy, Jjouisiana volunieers, at
Calaboso river, Jidy 12, 1847.
3d regiment artillery
5
5
5
Affairs under Major Lally, 9th infantry, at Paso Ovejas,
August 10, 1847; National Bridge, August 12, 1S47;
Cerro Gordo, August 15, 1847 ; and Las Animas,
August 19, 1847, &cc.
1
1
9
9
5
11
15
7
9
1
I
9
1
6
13
15
9
1
9
1
2d regiment infantry
1
13
'I
7
4th do •.
4
1
4
1
1
1
2
5th do .
9th do.-
11th do...
1
2
1
2
12th do...
15
15
10
1
9
15th do
1
1
2
1
2
2
Marine corps.
Artillery recruits
1
1 1
1
1
Total
9
9
7
67
74
83
2
1 2
Under Brevet Colonel T. Cliiltk, l$t artiUery, siege of
Puebla, Mexico, commencing September 13, and ending
October 12, 1847.
2d regiment dr.igoons.
1
1
1
1
3
3
1
1
i
2
3d do ... .
1
2
3
1
1
3
2
1
2
3
1
1
3
2
1
I
4th do
2d regiment infantry
1
1
1
1
Total
3
3
13
13
16
616 STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
Loss (regular army) in incidental affairs and skirmishes with the enemy in 1847 — Continued.
REOIMENTS AND CORrS.
KILLSD IN BATTLE.
WOUNDED.
•a
2i
DIED or WOOIIDS.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officera.
Men.
Total.
Affair of General Lane, JJniled States volunteers, at
Iluumanlla, Mexico, October 9, 1847.
1
12
1
12
1
23
11
11
-— •-
Total
]
12
13
11
11
24
Affair of General Lane at Galaxca, Mexico, November
24, 1847.
1
1
1
Affair of Lieutenant Lore, \st drngoom, at Grand
Prairie, Arkansas river, June 26, 1847.
5
5
6
6
11
Afair of General Price at Santa Oruz de Eozaks, Neiv
Mexico, March 18, 1848.
9
9
9
Recapitulation of loss in battle of the regular army, hy regiments and corps, in the camp)aign
of 1847.
REGIMENTS AND CORPS.
KILLED IN BATTLE.
WOUNDED.
1^
SI
|1
DIED OF WOUNDS.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
1
1
2
2
5
1
2
3
6
4
11
5
3
2
3
5
26"
39
31
9
144
108
160
82
81
2
2
10
1
22
42
37
13
155
113
163
84
84
3
2
10
1
27
56
46
20
181
142
185
100
IOC
1
1
5
14
8
7
24
25
21
13
20
5
14
9
7
26
29
22
16
22
......
1
......
1
1st rci^iment dragoons. - -_ ..
1
2d do
3d . ...do -
1
5
llcffiment mounted riflenien
2
4
1
3
2
2
1
2
15
1
19
13
4
17
Tst regiment artillery
2
2d . -do
21
3d do -
13
4th do..
1st regiment inftiutry. -.___-
4
Zd do -
3d do -
3
25
20
25
36
34
18
34
10
28
20
27
41
34
20
34
11
9
4
6
8
5
3
13
5
1
4
4
120
101
88
170
128
59
158
04
42'
33
129
105
94
178
133
62
171
69
1
4(i
37
157
125
121
219
167
82
205
SO
1
58
41
1
1
2
2
2
1
4
15
11
19
13
29
2
4
4th -do
5th do
6th do.
2
5
16
13
21
7th do
8th do. -
2
13
31
!lth do
i
lOth . ..do
nth do. - -
2
10
4
12
4
12th do
13th do
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MKXICO.
Eecapitulalion of loss in battle, of i/ie regular army — Continued.
617
BKOIMENT8 AND COHl'9.
KILLED IK BATTLE.
WODHDED.
1^
DIES
OF WODNDB.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
6
11
6
13
7
6
15
97
22
103
28
116
......
4
4
15th do
2
1
Ifith do
9
6
9
7
14
4
146
24
9
11
9
160
28
9
11
10
169
35
9
24
11
^1
2
Marine corps
1
1
12
1
13
1
..
i
Aggregate in the campaign of 1847..
Aggregate in the campaign of 1846
33
IS
398
107
431
125
143
31
1, 953
279
2,096
310
2,527
435
18
8
154
27
172
35
Aggregate regular army Itilled and wounded
in 1846 and 1847
51
505
556
174
2,232
2,406
2,962
26
181
207
General return of the number of commissioned officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, arti-
ficers, and 2^rivates, of volunteers killed and ivounded, or died of wounds, in the several confiicts
with the Mexican troops, in the year 1846.
REGIMENTS AND CORPS.
KILLED IN BATTLE.
WOUNDED.
« —
1!
<3
DIED
OF wonNDS.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Afair of Captain Wallcer, near Point Jmbd, Texas,
April 28, 1846.
Texas rangers
10
10
10
Bam of Monterey, September 21, 22, and 23, 1846.
General staff -
1
......
6
"ri"
75
33
4
5
47
19
1
17
79
39
4
5
52
21
1
23
105
54
6
5
61
26
•■
Maryland and Dist. Columbia battalion volunteers
1
2
1
5
24
14
2
6
26
15
2
3
2
3
2
Louisiana volunteers
1
1
1st regiment Kentucky
Mississippi rifles
9
5
9
6
5
2
1
1
2
1
Texas volunteers . ..
1
•i
Total - ^-
5
59
64
18
200
218
282
1
9
10
Affair of General Kearny, near San Pasqual, Califor-
nia, December 6, 1846.
California volunteers
1
1
2
2
3
1
Affair of Colond Doniphan, at Brazito, Xem Mexico,
December 26, 1846.
Missouri volunteers
__
7
7
7
Aggregate in the campaign of 1846
6
70
75
20
207
227
302
1
9
10
S. 96 78
618
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
General reim-n of the nmnher of commissioned officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, arti-
Jicers, and privates, of volunteers kdled and wounded, or died of ivounds, in the several conflicts
with the Mexican troops, in the year 1847.
REtilMENTS AND COBPa.
KILLED IK BATTE.
WOCKDED.
i!
DIED OF WOUNDS.
Officers.;
1
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Battle of Duma Vista, Mexico, February 22 Sf 23, 1847. '
Ali'^sissirn^i rifles .
2
3
10
2
38
26
37
12
40
29
47
14
5
2
6
1
1
8
4
3
1
4
51
23
68
1
"28"
52
54
31
29
56
25
74
2
1
36
56
57
32
33
96
54
121
16
1
68
65
101
49
60
2
3
1
2(1 do --
2
Iiidiiinu Lric^iidc stiitT -
3
1
3
2
1
27
29
8
41
15
26
32
9
44
17
27
1
3d do - -
2
2
Arkan'ias cavulrv --- -- - -
2
2
Total
232
259
35
337
372
631
10
10
Investment ami &icge of Vera Ci-vz, Mexico, commoicing
March 9, ^and ending March 27, 18-17.
1st regiment Pennsylvania
2
2
10
4
4
1
5
10
4
5
1
5
12
4
5
1
5
2d do
1
2d regiment Tennessee .
Total
2
2
1
24
25
27
Battle of Cerro Gordo, Mexico, April 17 and 18, 1847.
I'lt regiment Tennessee
1^
3
1
15
3
8
1
1
4
37
9
10
17
15
39
4
12
38
10
10
17
16
44
5
13
53
13
10
17
17
48
5
1
3
2
1
2d do
2
3
2
1st regiment Pennsylvania
2d do
1
1
3
1
4
1
5
1
4th do
1
8
8
Total
3
21
24
17
135
152
176
14
14
Battles of Contreras and Churvbmco, Mexico, August
19 and 20, 1847.
T^pffiment New York --. -
1
3
15
8
16
11
10
11
76
115
86
126
102
137
19
26
19
26
Total
4
23
27
21
191
212
239
45
45
Battles of ChapuUepec and city of Mexico, September
12, 13, and 14, 1847.
Kegiment New York
1
2
10
14
7
11
16
7
8
9
6
57
75
84
65
84
90
76
100
97
I
Begiment South Carolina
2d regiment Pennsylvania
; 10
10
Tot.al . .
3
31
34
23
216
239
273
ift
10
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
619
Loss {volunteers) in incidental affairs and skirmishes with the enemy in 1847.
REGIMENTS AND CORPS.
KILLED IN BATTLE.
WOCNDED
£ 5
a o
DIED or WOCNDS.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men. Total.
Affair of General Kearny, near San Gabriel. California,
January 8 and 9, 1847 -. - -
1
1
2
2
Affairs of Colonel S. Priee, Missouri volunteers, at La
Canada, January 24, 1847, Embudo, January 29,
1847, and Fueblo de Taos, February 4, 1847.
Missouri volunteers
3
3
5
25
3
30
3
33
3
4
4
Santa Fe volunteers
I
1
Total
3
3
5
28
33
36
4
4.
1
Affair of Colonel Doniphan, Missouri volunteers, near
Sacramento, New Mexico, February 28, 1847.
Missouri volunteers
1
5
5
5
' ■
Affair of Colonel De Eussy, Louisiatia volunteers, near
Calaboso, Mexico, July 12, 1847.
1
6
7
5
1
1
3
2
4
3
11
8
Louisiana volunteers -- ,--.
5
Total
1
11
12
2
6
7
19
Affairs of Major Lally, 9th infantry, at Paso Ovejas,
August 10, National Bridge, August 12, 1847, &(c.
Georgia volunteers . . ..
2
2
3
3
3
3
5
3
Louisiana volunteers ---
1
Total
2
2
6
6
8
1
1
Under Bra'et Colonel T. Childs, \st artillery, siege of
Puebla, Mexico, commencing September 13, 1847, and
ending October 12, 1847.
15
15
2
1
27
2
1
i
29
2
1
5
44
2
Regiment South Carolina . -■_ ...
..1
1
5
1
Total
15
15
1 3
34
37
52
Affair of Major Lane, Virginia volunteers, November 21,
1847.
1
!
1
4
4
5
Affair of General Lane, United States volunteers, near
Galaxra, November 24, 1847.
Corps not specified
1
1
1
1
2
3
1
I-- - - - -
620 STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
Loss (volunteers) in incidental affairs and skirmishes with the enemy in 1847 — Continued.
REGIMENTS AND CORPS.
KILLED IN BATTLE.
WOUNDED.
•T3
.l-g
£ 3
DIED OF WOCNDS.
Officers.
Men.
Total.
Officers.
Men.
Toul.
£■5
|1
Officers. Men.
Total.
Incidental lots.
January 24, 1S47
1
......
2
4
1
1
3
5
1
3
2
3
2
4
3
Muv 27, 1847
June 27. 1847
1
1
1
3
14
1
July 6, 1847
9
9
On road to Huamautla j.
Total
4
7
11
14
14
25
Affair of Gtneral I'rice, Untied Stales volunteers, at Santa
Cruz de Rosales, March IC, 1848.
Third Missouri mounted volunteers »
1
3
4
8
8
1
1
12
1
1
S:inta Ft- volunteers
1
1
Chihuahua rangers
Total
1
3
4
10
10
14
Affair o/ General Lane, Segualteplan, Mexico, Febniary
25, 1848.
Texas rangers
1
4
5
5
Affair of Colonel Burton, New York volunteers, at " To-
dos Santas," Aprd 30, 1848.
1
1
l'
Under Lieutenant Ilm/u-oorl, United States navy, siege of
SanJosi, Lower California, Felmiary 7 and 10, 1848.
Sailors, marines, and California volunteers
1
2
3
4
4
7
Affair of Captain Steele. A'ew York and California vol-
unteers, San Antonio, March 16, 1848.
New York and California volunteers
1
1
1
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
Eecapitulation of loss in battle of the volunteer forces in the campaign of 184*7.
REGIMENTS AND CORPS.
KILLED IN BATTLE.
Men. I Total.
WO0.VDED.
Total.
Offlcera. Men. Total
DIED OF WOO.NDS.
Indiana brigade, staff.
Mississippi rifles
1st regiment, Illinois. -.
2d regiment, Illinois
3d regiment, Illinois
4th regiment, Illinois
Texas company
2d regiment, Indiana
3d regiment, Indiana
Regiment Kentucky cavalry
1st regiment, Kentucky
2d regiment, Kentncky
Regiment Arkansas cavalry
Ist regiment, Pennsylvania
2d regiment, Pennsylvania
Regiment Soutli Carolina.
1st regiment, Tennessee
2d regiment, Tennessee
Regiment Georgia
2d regiment. New York
California volunteers
Missouri volunteers
Santa F^ volunteers.
Louisiana volunteers
Spy company
Maryland volunteers.
Virginia volunteers --
Incidental loss
Corps not specified
Chihuahua rangers
Texas rangers
1st regiment. New York.
Sailors, marines, and California volunteers.
New York and California volunteers
2
3
10
38
26
37
1
3
12
29
8
26
3
41
15
17
7
22
1
13
2
25
Aggregate in the campaign of 1847.
Aggregate in the campaign of 1846.
44
5
355
70
Aggregate volunteers killed and wounded
in 1846 and 1847
49
40
29
47
1
4
14
32
9
27
3
44
17
17
7
27
1
15
2
27
7
1
11
1
1
5
2
6
1
5
1
8
4
4
1
3
1
2
6
21
19
1
5
51
23
68
15
39
1
28
52
29
9
54
31
47
107
195
4
38
8
137
1
38
4
5
4
3
4
14
1
1
4
1
56
25
74
16
44
2
36
56
33
10
57
32
49
113
216
12
39
8
156
2
43
4
6
5
4
4
14
2
1
5
1
4
1
96
54
121
17
48
U6
68
65
60
13
101
49
66
120
243
13
54
10
183
2
50
4
11
5
11
5
25
3
1
5
1
7
1
399
75
111
20
1,019
207
1,130 ! 1,529
227 I 302
425 474
131
1,226 I 1,357 I 1,831
10
26
1
3
19
4
83
92
10
26
1
3
19
83
10
93
War Department,
Acljvianl General's Office, Washinffton, December 3, 1849.
R. JONES,
Adjutant General United States Army.
The aggregates reported in the several recapitulations of " loss in hattle," do not agree with
those reported in the first table of this series. The losses in battle are obtained from the field
reports of the commanders, forwarded immediately after the action, and are liable to revision
when subsequently reported in the regimental returns and company rolls.
The statistics of the war are presented as close approximations only ; the difficulties attending
their compilation being so numerous as to render the attainment of positively accurate results
impracticable.
STATISTICS
OF
THE RECRUITING SERVICE.
STATISTICS OF THE RECRUITING SERVICE.
The army of the United States, as at present organized by law, numbers, in the aggregate,
12,698 men ; of whom 1,040 are commissioned officers, the remaining 11,658 being enlisted
soldiers. By an act of Congress, approved June 17, 1850, the President is authorized "to
increase to seventy-four the number of privates in any company serving at the several military
posts on the western frontier, and at remote and distant stations." There being on the 1st of
January, 1856, one hundred and eighty-one companies serving at distant stations and on the
western frontier, the authorized increase in the number of privates was then 5,164; making the
total enlisted 16,822, and the aggregate 17,862. If all the companies were serving at remote
stations, the additional number of privates allowed would be 5,620, making the total enlisted
17,278, and the aggregate 18,318.— (See Army Register, 1856.)
As, however, there are continual losses, by the retirement of men whose terms of service have
expired, by desertions, deaths, and other casualties, the army rarely attains the legal strength,
and there is always a certain deficiency of material to be supplied by the recruiting service.
The recruiting service is conducted by the Adjutant General, under the direction of the Sec-
retary of War. From the annual reports of that officer, it appears that the number of recruits
enlisted in the army during the last six years has been as follows:
From October 1, 1849, to September 30, 1850 3,695
1850
1851
1852
1853
1854
1851 4,567
1852 4,174
1853 2,863
1854 4,221
1855 10,546
Total 30,066
Annual average 5,011
In the United States, Avhere there is, as a general rule, ample and remunerating employment
for mechanics and' laboring men, there is but little inducement to enter a service where the pay
is small, and the duties both arduous and dangerous. It is, accordingly, found that the material
ofiered in time of peace is not of the most desirable character, consisting principally of newly
arrived immigrants, of tliose broken down by bad habits and dissipation, the idle, and the im-
provident.
The principal rendezvous are located in tlie large cities; and of 2,726 men enlisted from
January 1 to December 31, 1852, 1,234, or nearly one-half, were enlisted in the State of New
York ; and of these, fully two-thirds were from the city of the same name. To illustrate the
character of the material offering at the different recruiting stations, the following table has
s. 96 79 •
626
STATISTICS OF THE RECRUITING SERVICE.
been prepared. It shows the places of enlistment, tlie numbers enlisted and rejected, and the
causes of rejection :
Recruits enlisted and rejected in the year 1852, at the rendezvous of the general recruiting service.
Stales.
■a
S
.2
1
1
Itejeolcd as
minors.
■C.S
cj it
1 =
1°
■3 .
is
s
g
S
V
C
O
£
1
li
3 3
c «
■3
!.§■
s
•a
■3.2
Con
1^
■a
£
3
a.
3
is
•a
■c
New York
1,234
541
263
221
197
116
98
51
5
1,442
790
419
152
146
22
130
34
37
710
309
401
139
60
40
117
3
21
312
112
168
42
12
13
61
97
7
2
823
486
259
210
63
37
58
15
14
132
56
29
5
15
4
345
43
36
45
8
18
8
S
1
1
1
85
15
3
9
2
48
2
4
1
316
16
23
45
6
1
7
571
207
94
65
42
8
78
4
2
37
6
5
16
7
310
112
102
46
25
4
47
U
193
509
Kentucky
SO
1
2
1
33
300
Louisiana
2
135
' 8
2
Rhode Island
12
Total
2,Ti6
3,162
1,806
732
106
1,965
243
630
16
114
55
314
1,071
51
32
657
2,434
Total examined 16,064
Total rejected 13,338
Total enlisted 2,726
Of tlie total oifering, only 16.9 per cent, were considered fit for service. It is probable that
the real per centage is much smaller even than this, as doubtless the non-commissioned officers
do not bring to the notice of the recruiting officers and examining surgeons a large number
who, either through age, intemperate habits, or broken constitutions, would certainly be rejected
by them.
In the army of the United States, where the voluntary system for recruiting obtains, the duty
of deciding on the efficiency of the recruit depends upon an examination by a recruiting officer
and a military surgeon. Every consideration touching the economy and efficiency of the army
demands that this examination be very thorough, both in regard to moral and physical dis-
abilities. The regulations, therefore, enjoin that, "in passing a recruit, the medical officer is
to examine him stripped, to see that he has free use of .all his limbs; that his chest is ample;
that his hearing, vision, and speech ar« perfect; that he has no tumors, or ulcerated or exten-
sively cicatrized legs ; no rupture or chronic cutaneous affection; that he has not received any
contusion or wound of the head, that may impair his faculties ; that he is not a drunkard, is not
subject to convulsions, and has no infectious or other disorder, that may unfit him for military
service." The surgeon is also required to certify, on honor, that the recruit passed by him is
"free from all bodily defects and mental infirmity, which would in any way disqualify him from
performing the duties of a soldier."
The following paragraph from the "Regulations for the Recruiting Service," is introduced to
show the general qualifications necessary to enlistment:
"All free white male persons above the age of eighteen, and under thirty-five years, being
at least five feet four and a half inches high, who are efi'ective, able-bodied, sober, free from
disease, and who have a competent knowledge of the English language, may be enlisted. This
regulation, so far as it respects the height and age of the recruit, shall not extend to soldiers
who may 're-enlist' into the service, or have served honestly and faithfully a previous enlist-
ment in the army, or to musicians."
A very large proportion of the recruits are, as has been mentioned above, foreigners. Indeed,
STATISTICS OF THE RECRUITING SERVICK
627
hj the foregoing table it will be perceived that 2,434 persons were rejected for not being able to
speak the English language. A large proportion of the immigrants who are landed at our sea-
port cities, where the army is principally recruited, are extremely destitute; and to those not
finding immediate employment, the army, in its system of enlistments for the short period of
five years, offers a temporary resource, of which many avail themselves. In this way the army
assists in peopling the remote frontiers and territories; for the soldier, transported from the
Atlantic to the stations on the western or other frontiers, becomes in many cases, when dis-
charged, a settler, and enters into agricultural or other pursuits of civil life.
Of 5,000 recruits enlisted in the army during the years 1850 and 1851, 1,484 were native
Americans, and 3,516 were foreigners.
The Americans came from the following States:
From New York 419 ^i From Illinois 13
ti
a
Pennsylvania 257
Massachusetts 102
Virginia 87
Maryland 87
Ohio 84
Vermont C9
New Jersey 53
Maine 50
Connecticut 4G
Kentucky 41
New Hampshire 38
Khode Island 32
Tennessee 23
The foreigners were:
From Ireland 2113
" England 306
" Scotland 126
" Wales 8
" Canada 90
" Nova Scotia 19
" New Brunswick 13
Total from Great Britain and dependencies 2675
From Germany 678
" Sweden 12
" Denmark 7
a
a
a
Indiana 13
South Carolina 12
North Carolina 10
Missouri 9
Michigan
Louisiana
Delaware
District of Columbia.
Georgia
Alabama
Wisconsin
Arkansas
Iowa
From Norway
" Holland
" Belgium
" France ,
" Switzerland
" Poland
7
6
4
4
3
1
1
1
5
9
2
49
22
16
Him gary 19
Italy 13
Austria 5
S^min 2
Prussia 1
Finland 1
Many of these foreign recruits had been soldiers in their own countries, and some were
doubtless refugees from political causes. A number, too, of deserters from the British army
in Canada, find their way into our service, though they are rejected when the fact is known ; as
a soldier who has not proved faithful to his own flag, is not likely to prove true to another.
In the year 1852, fifty-one applicants for enlistment were rejected at the rendezvous in New
York, as branded with the letter D, showing that they had been tried and punished for deser-
tion. Most of these found their way over the Canada frontier.
The relative proportion of native and foreign recruits is reversed in time of war. During
the war of 1812-'15 the regiments were almost wholly made up of Americans; aud the
volunteer and new regiments which were formed during the war with Mexico consisted almost
f)28
STATISTICS OF THE RECRUITING SERVICE.
entirely of citizens born within tlie limits of the United States. Even in the general recruiting
service, this fact is plainly shown; the following being the nativity of 5,000 recruits enlisted in
the year 1847 for the regular army in Mexico.
Americans 3,639
British 771
Germans 473
Europeans generally 117
Total .■ 5,000
The Americans were:
From New York 705
" Pennsylvania 555
" Virginia 299
" Ohio 230
" Kentucky 218
" Maryland 168
" Tennessee 167
" North Carolina 146
" New Jersey 126
" Connecticut 123
" Maine 117
" Indiana 108
" Vermont 100
" Massachusetts 97
" South Carolina 93
" Georgia 89
From New Hampshire 79
Alabama
Rhode Island
Delaware
District of Columbia
Missouri
Michigan
Louisiana...-.
Illinois
Mississippi
Arkansas
Florida
Iowa
48
32
21
22
24
22
21
15
9
• »
O
1
1
Total .
3639
As a body, these men were of much better material than those who enlist in time of peace.
They were taller, more intelligent, had better constitutions and habits, and were for the most
part young and enthusiastic. It is well known that fully 200,000 men offered their services as
volunteer soldiers to the President of the United States at the commencement of the Mexican
war. These men were mostly actuated either by motives of patriotism, or by a desire for change
and excitement, and not by the hope of personal or pecuniary reward.
Medical officers on duty at recruiting rendezvous are required to transmit to the Surgeon
General, monthly, returns of "recruits examined," giving the name of each man examined,
the place of his nativity, his age, his profession, and the causes of rejection, if any.
From the returns thus rendered, the following table has been comj)iled, showing the amount
of disability among the recruits brought to the surgeon for examination.
For the convenience of comparison, and as a matter of general interest, the arrangement has
been made according to nations, as far as it could be conveniently carried out.
Nationality.
No. of rocrulta.
Passed.
Rejected.
Americans
Germans
English and Scotcli
Irish
Europeans generally
Total
2,000
2,000
2,000
2,000
2,000
1,332 '
1,310
1,272
1,240
1,229
66S
690
728
760
771
10,000
6,383
3,617
STATISTICS OF THE RECRUITING SERVICE.
629
From tlie above tabular statement, it will be perceived that the best material offering for
service was, as we should naturally expect: first, our own native population ; next, the Germans,
who, as immigrants, are usually of a better class than those coming from the British islands;
and, lastly, the Europeans generally, who are decidedly inferior in physique and morals. The
Americans who oifer, notwithstanding they take the first place in the above table, are mostly
recruited in the larger cities, which, as is well known, never yield such able-bodied men as the
agricultural districts. Tlie difficulty of procuring remunerative employment, experienced by
the lower classes of the people in Great Britain, and on the continent of Europe, added to the
very great facilities for their transportation across the Atlantic, results in throwing upon our
shores great numbers who have suffered from restricted and improper diet, scanty clothing, and
other depressing causes^ which notoriously deteriorate a population, and increase the numbers
of diseased and malformed individuals.
The following 'table gives more in detail the causes of rejection in the cases of 5,000 individ-
uals, taken in succession from the reports of examining surgeons, on file in the Surgeon
General's office. It is interesting, as showing to some little extent the peculiarities of race in
the distribution of diseases and malformations, and also the general causes which operate in
rendering the lower classes generally unfit for soldiers. There is a remarkable uniformity in
the prevalence of certain classes of disease and injuries. For example: the epileptics were 3 in
1,000 Americans, 4 in 1,000 English, 4 in 1,000 Irish, and 4 in 1,000 Europeans. Gonor-
rhoea and syphilis are found in almost the same proportion in each; and the rejections for spinal
curvature, old injuries, defective vision, and ulcers, are remarkably uniform in results. While
the Germans and other Europeans seem to have had more unsound and broken constitutions in
their numbers, the Americans present an excess of rejections as too slender, and not sufficiently
robust ; a result doubtless due to the fact that, as a general rule, they were young men who had
not arrived at the full development of their physical strength.
Causes of rejection.
English.
Irish.
Europeans.
Not robust, too Blender
Unsound and broken-down constitutions
General unfitness
Imbecility, unsound mind.
Epilepsy -
Intemperance and bad habits .
Hernia, and lax abdominal rings
Varicose veins and varicocele
Hemorrhoids ..
Syphilis -
Gonorrhoia ;
Loss of teeth
Unequal length of limbs
General malformation
Malformation of fingers, toes, and feet.. ,
Malformed and contracted chest
Spinal curvature
Old injuries, fractures, &c
Cicatrices
Tumors
Disease of bones and j oints
" of skin
138
95
96
74
91
63
28 i
27
23
9 .
11
5
3
4
86
24
113
53
97
53
163
177
184
36 <
25
35
16 1
24
30
12
10
12
13
6
7
6
12
16
13
37
13
24. !
48
24
87
39
46
17
20
19
60
52
47
11
10
18
3
6
7
10
18
26
22
35
23
61
68
32
11
4
102
48
183
34
25
11
12
9
20
34
36
16
44
22
14
19
49
77
131
40
6
4
28
92
170
9
28
9
5
9
27
29
52
26
60
17
4
11
20
467
427
150
42
15
353
343
877
139
123
54
43
52
110
159
260
98
263
78
34
84
149
630
STATISTICS OP THE RECRUITING SERVICE.
TABLE— Continued.
Causes of rejection.
Americans.
Gennans.
Englisb.
Irish.
Europeans.
Total.
Disease of heart .... .
5
14
1
30
1
8
5
8
4
11
22
7
18
3
28
1
7
8
4
6
22
2
27
3
25
6
39
1
8
7
4
4
10
18
2
7
1
11
12
31
3
20
33
* • testis and tunica vaginalis
*' anus ... ........----. -
110
15
** eyes .... - ..... ......--.
144
* * ears . ..... ......
3
' ' £rlands . . _ _ _
2
11
5
6
12
22
2
2
3
14
25
10
3
41
" abdomen , . . ___.. ..
24
14
13
29
16
14
37
7
4
3
2
60
Ulcers
Goitre ...... --__ .. .-- .---
128
27
Ascites and anasarca
13
1
5
1
8
Letter D
2
34
1
Total
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
5,000
The returns also afford the necessary data for determining the different trades and occupations
of the individuals presented to the medical officers for examination, as well as the specific dis-
ability in each case.
The following table gives the occupation of 8,000 persons, with the numbers respectively passed
and rejected, arranged in classes of one thousand each :
Occupations.
Passed.
Rejected.
Total.
567
573
587
580
632
633
641
672
433
427
413
420
368
367
359
328
1,000
1,000
1,000
Clerks, students, and teachers-
1,000
Blacksmiths, machinists, and worUers in metals. -
Shoemakers...... --....
1,000
1,000
Tailors
1,000
Carpenters and workers in wood '
1,000
Total..
4,885
3,115
8,000
Although desirous of avoiding the error of going too much into the details of these statistics,
it is believed that a statement of the specific causes of rejection in each of the above classes will
be both useful and interesting. Tlie .subjoined table has, therefore, been compiled from the
original monthly returns :
STATISTICS OF THE KECEUITING SEEVICE.
631
Causes of rejection.
Not robust 51
Unsound constitution 27
Imbecility 29
Intemperance 49
Lax abdominal rings 21
Hernia 17
Varicose Teins - ' 68
Hemorrhoids 18
Syphilis and gonorrhoea 6
Loss of teeth 4
Malformations, general 25
Malformations of chest 16
Injuries, fractures, &c. 25
Tumors
Diseases of bones
" skin
" chest
' ' heart
" testis
" eyes
' ' ears
' ' glands- -
Defective hearing ..
" vision
Ulcerations
Disease of abdomen.
Letter D
5
4
12
2
1
6
22
27
38
40
35
9
14
69
10
20
5
20
32
29
6
9
12
6
10
17
50
43
8
29
3
23
78
8
6
7
39
19
26
3
6
16
2
5
8
11
5
1
2
11
1
Total 433
1
■I
1
7
8
4
9
4
1
3
2
427
413
43
40
20
33
10
64
27
17
7
21
41
13
2
9
15
6
5
9
14
1
2
2
9
5
"5 s
a s
28
31
16
45
1
16
83
9
9
3
22
17
24
3
12
12
2
2
7
8
1
420
368
64
29
16
53
3
14
38
19
8
3
25
30 I
19 !
2
6
9
3
4
7
7
61
33
6
57
2
14
37
9
14
2
16
19
22
5
4
12
3
3
15
9
35
27
14
32
2
19
69
9
11
4
18
13
29
3
4
5
5
8
3
1
1
11
2
1
367 359 ! 328
The occupations and professions from which recruitiare obtained, are presented in detail in
the following list, which is arranged in three distinct classes — those horn in the United States,
in Great Britain, and in continental Europe:
Occupations and professions of recruits.
Occupations.
Americans.
British.
Europeans.
Occup.ltions.
.\mcricans.
British.
Europeans.
Butchers
5
9
35
21
13
79
187
90
84
Carnenters --
47
16
50
Soldiers
121
73
129
Blacksmiths
54
16
39
Bakers -_
3
3
186
19
1
439
46
11
131 '
Shoemakers
Tailors
3* ,
21
20
56
27
8
30
25
Laborers -
Masons
16
Clerks -
59
59
77
Brewers
17
632
STATISTICS OF THE RECRUITING SERVICE.
OCCUPATIONS, &c.— CoiitinueJ.
Occupations.
Sailors
Weavers
Bookbinders ,
Saddlers
Painters
Millers
Stonecutters .
Printers
Merchants ..
Physicians ..
22
1
11
«3
8
4
15
British.
5
13
Europeans.
14
14
12
12
9
9
11
7
8
5
Occupations.
Americans. ! British. lEuropeans.
Ijawyers
Clergymen
Codjiers
Machinists
Students and teacliers
Servants ..
Mechanics of various kinds.
10
11
2
7
121
4
10
2
40
80
1
1
11
6
10
12
89
Total 1,000
1,000 1,000
The regulations for the recruiting service jire.scrihe that no person shall he enlisted who is
under 18 or over 35 years of age. The period of life in -which a recruit can be enlisted is thus
kept within very narrow limits, and no great disparity in the ages of persons, from different
countries, brought to the examining surgeons, is to he expected. As, however, one rea.son for
the number of Americans rejected as "too slender" was stated to be their youth, as compared
with recruits from foreign countries, a more minute inquiry into this branch of the subject was
instituted. The result is as follows:
Nativity.
United States
England and Scotland
Ireland
Germany
Other countries in Europe
No. of recruits.
200
200
200
200
200
Total No. of years.
4,802
4,862
4,884
5,130
5,153
Average age.
24.01
24.31
24.42
25.65
25.76
Inquiry has also been made in regard to the comparative physical development of Americans
and Europeans. The results, from data taken indiscriminately from the records of the Surgeon
General's office, are exhibited in the following table:
Height.
AMERICANS^.
E.S01.1SH.
EUROPEANS.
No. of soldiers.
Mean weight.
No. of soldiers.
Mean weight.
No. of soldiers.
Mean weight.
Pounds,
141 1 134. 02
260 1 137. 60
535
721
733
614
411
222
Pounds.
134. 74
138.41
145. 13
146. 18
150. 09
152.87
215
249
241
175
116
76
24
17
Pounds.
134. 57
5 " 6 "
138. 02
5 >' 7 "
309 141.31
262 145.40
220 148.06
143.36
5 I" 8 "
145. 23
5 I' 9 "
152.82
5 " 10 "
149
154. 36
160.82
164.80
156.71
5 " 11 "
112
84
116 158.60
159.79
fi '* and over -----
87
161.30
166.80
Totals and averages. -
1,537
148. 29
1
3,439 148.41
1
1,113 149.66
STATISTICS OF THE RECRUITING SERVICE.
633
A more particular physical description of American recruits will be found in the following
table, which exhibits the mean height, in feet and decimals, of 1,800 men, taken as they were
entered upon the lists of recruits filed in the Adjutant General's office. The results are given
for one hundred men from each State. No recruit under five feet five inches received.
Physical description of American recruits.
Indiana
Kentucky
Ohio
Tennessee
Maine
Vermont and N. Hampshire
Massachusetts and Connecticut
North Carolina
Georgia
South Carolina
Alabama
Virginia
New York
Pennsylvania
New Jersey and Delaware ..
Maryland
Illinois
Missouri ....
Mean
beigbt.
Fed.
5. 7604
5.7729
5. 7537
5.7779
5. 7314
5.6951
5.6821
5.7814
5.8272
5.7729
5.7647
5. 7488
5. 6505
5. 6756
5. 6509
5.7130
5. 7696
5.7162
Fl. in.
6 i\
6 3|
6 3i
6 3
6 2
6 1
6 3
6 3J
6 6i
6 4}
6 4
6 2
6 IJ
6 1
6 1
6 2
6 3
6 n
Blue. Grey. Hazel Black Brown
28
22
33
15
43
54
40
8
19
11
6
32
59
54
27
23
38
35
Dark B. Light B
17
18
15
36
28
14
14
26
30
22
30
21
8
9
27
18
19
23
24
28
19
27
12
20
19
27
24
32
30
19
16
16
26
20
17
21
Red.
13
8
14
11
9
4
12
20
18
23
13
9
6
8
8
13
15
9
Black.
COMPLEXION.
Fair. Dark,
18
24
19
11
8
6
15
19
9
12
21
19
11
13
12
16
11
12
73
69
67
74
75
79
72
77
69
77
71
71
68
65
67
70
71
80
27
31
33
26
25
21
28
23
31
23
29
29
32
35
33
30
29
20
Having shown to some extent the sources from which the army of the United States is recruit-
ed, and given the general characteristics of the several classes offering for enlistment, it is pro-
posed, in conclusion, to show what becomes of the recruit, so far as the military service is con-
cerned. For this purpose reference is made to the following table:
Nationality.
Expiration of ' By order
service, A. G. O.
By court-
martjnl.
Disability.
Died. Killed acci- Killed in battle
dentally. and died from
wounds.
Deserted. Total.
Americans
549
618
664
171
155
UI
63
54
53
20
260
229
259
306
193
237
226
273
15 , 57
23 49
27 62
.17 R<>.
692
635
568
2,000
2,000
9 nnn
Irish _ ..........
Germans _ ......
719 149
434 ' 2 000
Total
2,550 filfi 1 190
1,054
9 "9 102 2.sn
2 329 1 8 nnn
S. 96-
-80
APPENDIX.
APPENDIX.
No ATTEMPT has been made to incorporate in this report the medical statistics of the Florida
war. The exceedingly arduous nature of the campaigns in that peninsula, the necessitj' of
pursuing an unseen enemy, in trackless forests, over low marshy grounds, and through wet
hammocks, so extensive as to make it difficult to find dry ground whereon to encamp, proved
fruitful sources of those fearful scourges of armies — fever, diarrhoea, and dysentery. To these
sufficiently exciting causes of disease, must he added the (at times) depressed morale of the
army (both officers and men), arising from the frequent failure of their efforts to overtake or
meet the enemy.
The medical statistics of the army in Florida, during the war, would, by no means, afford a
proper basis by which to judge of the healthiness or unhealthiness of that territory ; nor would
their collation do much more than prove that the troops suffered, in an extraordinary degree,
from intermittent and remittent fevers, and from diarrhoea and dysentery.
The prominent medical feature of that war was the introduction into the army of the practice
of giving quinine in large doses, during the intermission of intermittent, and remission of re-
mittent fever ; and, also, of the exhibition of that remedy in the febrile stage of those diseases.
Without attempting to decide upon the originalifi/ of this practice, in any of its phases, or to
determine to whom, among the medical officers, is due the merit of introducing it into the army,
(for on this point the official records are silent,) it may with truth be said, that to the medical
staff of the army belongs the credit of having demonstrated, on an extensive scale, its safety
and efficacy, and of having thereby largely contributed to revolutionize the treatment of fever
in this country.
It has not been practicable to ascertain from the official records the precise time of the intro-
duction into the army of the practice of giving quinine in large doses. The earliest reports of
sick, in which that practice is alluded to, refer to the treatment as having been adopted some
time previously. The reports of Assistant Surgeon (now Surgeon) J. J. B. Wright, for the
quarter ending June 30, 1841, and of Assistant Surgeon (now Surgeon) Charles McCormick,
for the quarter ending September 30, 1841, are the first which are accompanied with any
special or detailed account of this treatment. The remarks of Surgeon Wright are embodied in
the report of that officer, (herewith submitted,) in reply to the Surgeon General's circular of
August 14, 1843. The special report of Assistant Surgeon McCormick is as follows:
638 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
"Fort R. Gamble, M. F., Ocioher 11, 1841.
"Sir: Fever has been the ])revailing disease during this quarter; and next, in frequency,
have been diseases of the organs connected with the digestive function. Of one hundred and
sixty-seven cases reported, sixteen were of the remittent, one hundred and nineteen of the
quotidian, and thirty-two of the tertian type. From this, it appears that, in one himdred and
tliirty-five of the cases, there were daily paroxysms of fever; and I think the strongest pecu-
liarity of character the cases have presented this season, has been the strong tendency they
have had to run into and assume the remittent type. In fact, in many of the cases, it has been
extremely difficult to draw a distinct and plain line of demarcation — to say where one ended,
and the otiier commenced. Some two or three have assimied the form known as 'congestive
fever.'
"The three military stations embraced in this report appear to have been judiciously located,
and are probably as healthy as could have been selected in the neighborhood, with due regard
to their military importance. The only causes which operate in producing disease at these
stations (excepting intemperance alone) may be considered as general to the territory — such
as malarial exhalations, atmospheric vicissitude, and the exposure to which troops are subject
day and night.
"In regard to the treatment of the fevers arising from these causes, my opinion has under-
gone a very important change within the last two years; and every day's experience, during
this period, has tended, in the most ample and satisfactory manner, to convince me that this
change has not only been important, but that the practice foundetl upon it has been judicious
and successful in the highest degree. In relation to the intermittent forms of fever, the change
was more in the mode of administering, and in the quantities of the remedies given, than in the
remedial agents themselves. Some two years since, I was so unsuccessful in arresting the par-
oxysms of intermittent fever with the sulphate of quinine, given in two-grain doses every hour,
(although, during the apyrexia, as much as twelve, eighteen, or twenty-four grains had been
given,) that I laid it by in despair, and resorted to sedatives and relaxants — such as tartrate of
antimony, ipecac, opium, &c. Still, however, I was not satisfied; and the great reputation the
Peruvian bark had so long enjoyed created doubts as to the propriety of abandoning its use.
Soon, therefore, I determined to give it another trial in larger doses; and, with this view, I
commenced three or four hours before the expected paroxysm, and gave from four to six grains
every hour, until it produced its peculiar effects upon the brain — ringing and buzzing sounds
in the ears, a sense of stricture across the forehead, and temporary or transient deafness —
effects invariably produced in every case where three or four such doses had been given. From
this time forward I was constantly successful ; nor do I remember a case in which it failed,
when the peculiar effects it displays on the nervous system were produced. Finding, then, that
the enlarged doses had such happy effects, I was induced, in many cases where the apyrexia
was short, to give it in single doses of from ten to fifteen or twenty grains, according to the
violence of the disease. Here, then, I saw cases of intermittent fever that could not be arrested
by fifteen or twenty grains of sulphate of quinine, (in fact, as before stated, it daily failed,) given
in small and divided doses, yielding immediately to the same quantity given in large doses in
a much shorter interval. Again: the small doses seemed, when frequently rejjeated, in many
cases to prove stimulating, flushing the face, producing mental excitement and headache.
Scarcely one of the patients to whom small doses had been given complained of the singing
and buzzing in the ears, and deafness, which were constantly complained of by those to whom
large doses had been given. There would, then, appear to be great difference in the effects
produced by small and frequently repeated doses of the sulphate of quinine, and those impres-
sions made by large and full doses. The action of opium furnishes what I consider as a close
analogy, acting in small and frequently repeated doses as a stimulant, and in large doses as a
sedative. The analogy holds further: I do not believe the severest pain can modify more
strongly the action of opium, and thus render doses beneficial, that would, under ordinary con-
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 639
ditions of the system, prove fatal, than that the violence of the fever can, and does, modify the
action of the sulphate of quinine ; and thuw, during severe and highly dangerous fever, render
safe, heneficial, and sanative, a quantity that, in ordinary health, could not he tolerated. I
have given upwards of three hundred grains in less than twenty-four hours, in an extreme case
of congestive fever, that was ushered in hy total insensibility, speechlessness, inability to swal-
low, the power of deglutition being entirely lost, cold extremities and surface, pulse feeble and
nearly extinct; in fact, it was not to be felt. Here, the first effort to administer the sulphate
of quinine was made to throw fifty grains into the rectum. In this case, the only perceptible
effects of the sulphate of quinine (which was repeated after the pulse rose, and the extremities
became hot, in twenty-grain doses, every hour, for twelve or thirteen hours) were to throw out
upon the surface, generally, a warm, free perspiration, and to reduce the pulse from one hun-
dred and upwards to eighty per minute, and rendering it soft and compressible; and, undoubt-
edly, by allaying the fever, it enabled the calomel, which had been given every hour with the
quinine, in ten-grain doses, to exert its full effect upon the secretions. Free alvine evacuations
were procured, and a speedy and complete recovery followed in a few days.
"I am satisfied that the best mode of administering the sulphate of quinine, is to give from
ten to fifteen grains as soon as the paroxysm is over. Given thus, before or after the paroxysm,
it appears at times to fail; for the paroxysm returns sometimes without, and at others with, a
struggle (as the patients have described it to me) between the medicine and the disease. In
many of the cases it would appear that the disease conquers, and the paroxysms return; but,
on examining the pulse, it will be found more bounding, yet softer, and more easily compressed.
Although the paroxysm has thus returned, it is much moderated and changed in its character;
and I think, with three exceptions in more than two hundred cases, it has always proved the
last paroxysm, the disease having yielded. But I am confident of my ability to prevent such
returns by giving fifteen grains of quinine at the end of the paroxysm, and following it by five-
grain doses every six or eight hours, until half a drachm is taken in the interval, or even in the
twenty-four hours ; or by giving, in addition to the fifteen grains at the end of the paroxysm,
ten grains or fifteen grains an hour or two before the period for the accession of the next
paroxysm. This latter is the plan I have used successfully in the only few cases of quartan
ague I have met with. Such I have found to be the most successful mode of using the sul-
phate of quinine in the treatment of intermittent fevers ; and I have never found it to inter-
fere with whatever antiphlogistic measures it has been necessary to use. General and local
bleeding should always precede the use of quinine in every case in which they are indicated.
I have found this practice constantly to favor the full impression of the quinine.
"In many of the cases of intermittent fever I have observed a regular recurrence of the disease ;
in some cases every seventh, in others every ninth, fourteenth, twenty-first, and twenty-eighth
day. In many of the cases of this kind I have succeeded in breaking up the morbid catenation,
and arresting the disease, by anticipating the recurrence of the paroxysms for one or two
periods with the sulphate of quinine. In cases of tliis kind, tiie premonitory stage is very
common ; and when this makes its attack, the administration of ten or fifteen grains of the sul-
phate of quinine has invariably proved successful. In this manner, during the past two sum-
mers I have been so fortunate as to free myself from this troublesome complaint.
"As I have said at the commencement of these remarks, about two years since I changed my
opinion of the treatment of the remittent forms of fever. At that time the practice I was pur-
suing was general and local bleeding, as required, free alvine evacuations, the mercurial impres-
sion, cold bland drinks, cold affusions, and counter-irritants ; and I then thought it the most
judicious. The practice, however, rar'ely succeeded in arresting the disease jiromptlj' ; and no
part of this treatment possessed a quick and certain power to arrest the disease generally — un-
less, in some few cases, venesection ; and that only in the forming stage. Here, then, generally,
was the practice I was pursuing in what are termed remittent fevers ; and hy far the greater por-
tion of, indeed nearly all, the authors wiiom I had read, and whom I was taught to regard as
640 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
standard authorities — condemned in the most unqualified terms tlie use of the Peruvian hiuk,
and all its preparations, in the treatment of this disease. I gave them implicit belief, and
would have deemed it the height of malpractice to have used it, as it only should be used,
boldly, in any such case. Notwithstanding all this, reasoning by analogy, an idea that its use
might be advantageously extended to the treatment of remittent fevers in all their varieties, forced
itself upon my mind. My attention was first roused by the wonderful and almost infallible
power I had myself witnessed that this potent remedy possessed over every variety of inter-
mittent fever. Again, I reflected that they were the result of the same causes — their anatomi-
cal characters, to say the least, very similar; that they had, in very many cases, such a decided
tendency to assume the chai'acters of each other ; that the differences in tlie accession, duration,
and symptoms of the paroxysms, are in reality but slight. For instance : the diagnosis between
them in many cases is very difficult, from the passing of the one into the other; and, in fact,
many authors describe them as varieties of the same type; and, finally, that they both yield
readily and promptly to the same general treatment, except some few cases of the severer forms
of each, in which the best devised j^ractice may fail. Here, then, by name, are two diff'erent
diseases, according to some authors; according to others, only a variety of the same type of
fever, not in reality differing more from each other in the accession, duration, and symptoms of
the paroxysms, or in the nature of the intervening periods, than do the varieties of those which
are plainly intermittent among themselves, or those which are plainly remittent; there being as
great a difference of character among the varieties of the former, and also among the latter,' as
between the intermittent and remittent.
"From this view of the subject, they appear only as varieties of the same disease, and as such
I regard them. But admit it otherwise ; all who oppose the use of the preparations of Peruvian
bark in the treatment of remittent fever, will say the practice I formerly pursued, as stated
above, was judicious. I deem it such now, and only regard the addition to it of the timely and
free use of the sulphate of quinine as rendering it almost certain of success in this form of
fever. The use of it in remittents is as necessary, as judicious, and as harmless, as it is in the
intermittent form. It has been, perhaps, as much from a different view of the action of the sul-
phate of quinine upon the system, as from regarding the two forms as different fevers, that the
great opposition to its use in remittent fever has been made. I will endeavor to give a fair and
impartial view of its action, from personal observation in many hundred cases. I regard its
action in large doses as sedative ; certainly all admit it to be the greatest and most powerful
anti-periodic or anti-intermittent known to the profession. I can aver, from long experience,
that I have never known it to increase inflammation ; and that I have given it freely, under all
circumstances, and am fully satisfied, from observation, that it not only has no power to retard
the cure of inflammation, but that, in fact, all its tendency is to accelerate it ; that it will pre-
vent congestions and inflammations from occurring in fever, by allaying the irritation whicli
excites and causes them. I have given it at all times of the paroxysms with perfect safety, and
have never witnessed any alarming or dangerous efiects from its administration under any such
circumstances. The results of my experience of the effects and properties of the sulphate of
quinine may be thus stated: 1st. It is a sedative, possessed of peculiar properties, which may
be termed anti-periodic or anti-intermittent. 2d. It has no power to augment inflammation,
and may, therefore, be given under all circumstances. 3d. Nor has it any power to prevent tlie
cure of inflammation ; but, under many circumstances, a direct and positive power to prevent it.
4th. It may be given at any period during t!ie paroxysm; — I prefer the decline, or just after it
has subsided. 5th. During the course of fever, it accelerates the absorption of whatever reme-
dies maybe introduced into the system, such as mercui'y; this I can only explain, by saying
that it allays the fever, and consequently withdraws the excitement of the organs, which, as
long as it continues, must diminish in a great degree, if it does not entirely stop, secretion and
absorption. 6th. It will allay more speedily, and more certainly than any other remedy, those
troublesome symptoms, nausea and vomiting, so common in the fevers of this country; and by
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 641
the same virtue, it will arrest the paroxysms of fever, and thus leave whatever leaion may exist,
at the point to which it had arrived when the fever was arrested ; and, hy thus withdrawing
the excitement from the injured organ, will prevent its heing hurried beyond this point;
and, consequently, they will much more readily yield to remedial agents.
"Such, then, are the properties of the sulphate of quinine; and can anyone, regarding them
as such, hesitate to administer it in fever, as it is evident that this remedy may safely he em-
ployed, even in cases where local inflammations exist; and that, too, without augmenting them?
" In the next place, a view of the nature of fever may, in some measure, enable us to see the
modus opermidi of the sulphate of quinine, and serve to explain its almost specific power in ar-
resting the paroxysms and progress of fever.
" Broussais, in order to explain the power of quinine in arresting intermittent fever, was
forced into the absurdity of giving to a stimulant (as he regarded it) the power constantly of
subduing gastroenteritis, of which, he contended, the fever was symptomatic; and such is
likely to be the fate of all who contend that all fevers are symptomatic of local inflammations of
the different organs.
" To endeavor to arrive at the proximate cause of fever solely by examining the bodies, after
death, of those who have died of fever, seems about as hopeless as to examine the wreck a vio-
lent tornado has left in passing over a section of country, in search of the cause that originated
the tornado. We may see and know the effects each has produced, and ever after be able to
ascribe these phenomena to the causes producing them; but they reveal to us nothing in relation
to the precise condition of the body, or of the atmosphere they themselves have originated in.
Dissection alone cannot be trusted 4;o, in seeking the proximate cause of fever. It is, doubtless,
of high importance in teaching us what organs are prone to suffer, and thus arouse our efforts
to protect and relieve them ; but when has dissection detected the difference in the brains of
those who have died of hypochondriasis, tetanus, or liysteria? or can it distinguish the brain of
high intellectual endowment from that of idiocy? The train of phenomena constituting, and
the action of the remedies most successful in arresting the disease, must, doubtless, be of vast
assistance in enabling us to arrive at just conclusions ; for if tliey are disregarded, we fail to de-
tect the great and primary link in the train of sequences constituting fever-lesion of the nervous
system.
"Those who contend that fever is not symptomatic of local inflammation say, 'Fever is an
essential or primary disease. The first appreciable event in the chain of sequences constituting
fever, is functional injury of the nervous system. The only essential or invariable consequence
of this affection is iunctional derangement of the most important organs of the body, but more
especially of the brain, the circulating organs and fluids, the alimentary canal and skin. The
changes which have been observed to take place in the blood and other animal fluids, are, like
the local disorders, secondary, and not primary; they may be the source of the phenomena re-
marked in the advanced stage of the disease, but they are not the source of the disease itself in
the first instance.' That functional lesion of the nervous system is the first link in the train of
phenomena, is generally admitted ; and that this universally follows the impression of the remote
cause, must also be admitted ; in other words, they stand in the relation of aiuse and eflect.
The truth, then, is, in my opinion, that the malaria, or other cause of fever, first acts as a
■morbid irritant on the nervous system — sometimes more forcibly on the cerebro-spinal, and at
others more so on the ganglionic department, causing a derangement of function therein; the
capillary vessels throughout the organs become iuvolved, and congestions and inflammations are
excited; and whatever organs have suffered most from the predisposing and exciting causes, will
be most violently affected. There is, evidently, great disturbance of the nervous and vascular
systems, and they evidently act and react on each other, and thus produce the phenomena of the
paroxysms. The inflammatory congestions that occur in the first paroxysm are aggravated and
increased by every succeeding one, and, unless arrested by suitable means, will, in a great major-
ity of cases, end in organic lesion of some vital organ, and terminate fatally.
S. 96 81
642 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
"Moreover, if from the constant and invariable effect of any remedy in arresting disease, any
certain conclusions can be drawn, the almost specific power of tbe sulpliate of quinine in sub-
duing the paroxysms of fever must, at least, be regarded as indicating the nervous system as the
fons et origo of the cause of fever ; for it is manifest that the whole power and effect of this potent
remedy is exerted upon this system, whether or not the remedy be regarded as a sedative. The
excitement nnd derangement produced in this system by the remote cause, points out its action
to be tliat of a morbid irritant. It cannot consist in inflammation, as quinine possesses no im-
mediate and prompt power to arrest inflammation. Nor can it be, as Dr. CuUen supposed, seda-
tive ; for, if it acted thus, it would not constantly produce excitement and derangement.
"This irritated state of the nervous system is the sine qua non, the original, I'undaiuental, or
proximate cause, to which all the other phenomena of fever are successive. It consequently fol-
lows, that if this irritation be allayed, and its return prevented, the phenomena of fever will
cease; and such is the fact.
''If the fever has been suffered to continue for any length of time, the different organs may, and
in many cases must, be found in various morbid conditions. It must, therefore, be remembered,
that removing the cause can only prevent further injury; and that whatever lesions exist up to
the time of its removal, must remain and require proper treatment to subdue them. It is like
plucking a thorn from a wound; it does not immediately repair the injury it inflicted, but, on
being withdrawn, ceases to act as an irritant, and leaves the part in a condition most favorable
to recovery.
"Kegarding this, then, as the true pathology of fever, the treatment may be considered to
consist mainly in the following indications — viz: ^
" To arrest the fever at its outset, or as soon thereafter as practicable ; to obviate the tendency
to inflammatory congestions, especially of the liver, stomach, intestines, and brain, by mode-
rating the febrile reaction; and, finally, to remove the local disorders and complications that may
have occurred. The remedy on which I place the greatest reliance to arrest the progress of
fever is the sulphate of quinine. To accomplish this object, it should be given boldly, in large
doses. General and local bleeding, cathartics (such as the mercurial preparations, castor-oil,
sulphate of magnesia, and calcined magnesia) cold drinks, and ablutions, are the means adopted
to allaj' the febrile reaction ; and to obviate the tendency to inflammatory congestions, and to
combat the local disorders, topical bleeding, counter-irritants, and alteratives.
"Such is a general outline of the practice I have pursued for nearly two years past, in the
treatment of the fevers I have met with in Florida ; and I can safely say that it has proved
successful in every case which has been under my immediate charge, in which it was adopted —
amounting to several hundreds. I have, at times, prescribed for many patients without having
seen them during their illness ; and even in every case of this description — under, of course, every
disadvantage — it has been as successful, with one solitary exception. This was the case of Pri-
vate Campbell, whose death is recorded in this rejDort. He was on duty with a detachment
stationed at Auseilla ferry, near old Fort Koger Jones; I was on my way to the place, to have
him removed to the hospital at Fort R. Gamble, when his death was reported to me. He died
very suddenly; and from the information I received, I believe his death resulted from the fever
known as 'congestive fever,' which I have seen in that locality. All the other cases occurring
at that station, that came under my immediate charge, yielded readily to tlie treatment.
"A few remarks in regard to the mode of using the sulphate of quinine may be necessary.
In all cases, strict attention should be given to the state of the vascular system ; for, as has been
before remarked, general and local bleeding should always precede the exhibition of the sul-
phate of quinine, in every case in whicli they may be indicated, inasmuch as this practice will
be found constantly to favor the action of the quinine, probably by diminishing excitement and
moderating the reaction of the vascular or the nervous system. With the same view, either
before or soon after its administration, an active mercurial cathartic, to procure free alvine evac-
uations, should be given; to be followed, if necessary, by a combination of sulphate of magnesia,
OP QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 643
and calcined magnesia, or castor-oil. I have concluded, from experience, that the best time for
the sulphate of quinine to he given is immediately at the end of, or as a paroxysm subsides, or as
near this time as passible. Nature herself would seem to indicate this, for at this time there is
generally a calm — a pause in the disease. There is no general rule to determine the quantity
of the sulphate of quinine that may be required. In ordinary cases, I have found from fifteen
to twenty-iive and thirty grains sufficient. In the severer forms, a larger quantity becomes
necessary; and, in dangerous cases (such as I cited when endeavoring to show how the severity
of fever modified its action), from ten to twenty grains may be given every hour in combination
with ten grains of calomel. Here the mercurial impression is an agent whose auxiliary power
we require.
"For those cases commonly called 'congestive fevers,' which I had met with previously to
having adopted this practice, there seemed to be no remedies on which any reliance could be
placed. It has been in the severe and extreme cases of this formidable malady that I have seen
this remedy (sulphate of quinine) exhibit, to the greatest advantage, the Herculean and almost in-
credible power it possesses over the cause originating the disease, to which it would almost seem
to act as an antidote. In cases of this nature, it must be given fearlessly, in large and fre-
quently repeated doses, and persevered in until its effects are manifest.
"One of the most annoying and troublesome symptoms in the fevers of this section of
country is the irritability of stomach, accompanied with incessant nausea and vomiting.
Hitherto, in a large majority of severe cases, I have had this difficulty to contend with ; and,
in many instances, it has resisted every remedy. Under the present mode of treatment, I have
had no difficulty in relieving and preventing this symptom.
" It is said, calomel adds efficacy to every remedy with which it is combined ; for instance, it
renders squills more diuretic, &c. The same remark applies to the sulphate of quinine, in re-
lation to the mercurial pre])arations. What a happy combination, then, especially in cases of
fever, these two remedies must prove, each possessing such remarkable powers. I have seen a
single dose of twenty grains of quinine enable the mercurial preparations to produce their full
impression, even to ptyalism, in patients whose cases had resisted every effort that was made to
excite it for many days. In these cases, the system labored under such constant and continued
fever during the whole time it resisted the mercurial impression ; the different organs were in
such an irritated excitement, that both secretion and absorption were nearly, if not entirely, sus-
pended. The quinine, by subduing the fever, allays this excitement; on the removal of which
the functions are resumed, the remedies are taken up, and ptyalism is produced ; or, in cases
where the mercurials have not been pushed so far, the secretions are restored to a healthy
standard, withoiit this disagreeable and harassing accompaniment.
" Nearly every case of dysentery I have met with this season has been unusually severe and
dangerous. The immediate and exciting cause of the two cases reported as fatal, I ascribed to
the excessive use of ardent spirits and subsequent exposure. In the case of Private Byrnes, I
understood from an officer that, immediately on leaving the general hospital at Cedar Keys, he
got excessively drunk two or three times, and immediately afterwards was attacked with dysen-
tery.
" In some cases, general, and, in nearly all, local bleeding, blisters and calomel, with the free
use of opium, gum-water, and mild laxatives, was the general practice I followed; and, in
cases where complicated with iutermittent, quinine was highly useful. In the case of Private
Hackett, during the, time he labored under dysentery, intermittent fever supervened; it yielded
to a few grains of quinine, but the original disease continued, and did not yield to any remedy.
In this case, slight accidental salivation occurred. In the case of Lieutenant Johns, who had a
severe and dangerous attack of this malady, the dysenteric discharges, during several days of
his disease, recurred at regular periods — usually about 10 o'clock in the morning, and lasted
until late in the night. During the time they thus lasted, they were as distressing and
harassing as they had been at any period of his disease; and, during the remission of the dis-
644 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
charges, he was easy, aud rested well. With a view to arrest the recurrence of these dis-
charges, I anticipated a paroxysm with a large and full dose of sulph: morphise, but it had not
the desired effect; I therefore anticipated the next paroxysm with twelve grains of quinine.
The disease yielded; convalescence commenced ; and, since then, he has returned to duty.
"I have the honor to he, very respectfully, your ohedient servant,
"CHARLES McCORMICK,
"T. Lawson, M. D., "Assistant Surgeon U. S. Army.
" Snrgeon General U. S. Army, Washington City, D. C."
The practice of using quinine in such large doses, and during the stage of febrile excitement,
having excited much attention, and the pro])riety of such treatment having been questioned,
the Surgeon General issued the following circular to the medical officers of the army :
" Surgeon General's Office, August 14, 1843.
"Sir: As the propriety of the administration of quinine in very large doses has become a
mooted question throughout the medical world, and as various members of the medical corps of
the army have had more or less experience in this particular, you are hereby directed to fur-
nish replies to the following interrogatories :
"1. What is the extent of your experience in this respect?
"2. Was it always i\i& sulphate of quinine that you have prescribed? If so, was it pure?
"3. From what source has your quinine been obtained?
"4. In how large doses have you administered it, both as regards the extreme and the aweragre
quantity?
"5. State the specific diseases in which you have employed it, with all the necessary details,
and especially as regards the tonic or atonic state of the system; and whether injurious effects, or
at least unpleasant symptoms, did not less frequently supervene in the adynamic state than
when the powers of life were in an exalted condition?
"6. Give your opinion as to the modus operandi of this therapeutic agent — whether, for instance,
you regard it as a tonic, a sedative, or a stimulant?
"7. Since the practical introduction of quinine in large doses, the statistics of this Bureau
exhibit a much higher ratio of diseases of the bowels — as, for instance, diarrhcea and dysentery —
and also a much higher average of mortality from the same diseases. It remains, therefore, to
be determined how far this result is due to this cause, or to the operation of other agents.
"8. What have been your observation and experience in regard to the influence of the climate
of Florida, the acute diseases incident thereto, or the use of quinine in inducing acute and chronic
affections of the liver and spleen ?
"9. State whatever else you may deem appropriate to the subject.
"This inquiry is instituted at the instance of the Army Medical Board lately in session at
New York, upon the suggestion of one or more distinguished practitioners of medicine in private
life ; and it is desirable that the information asked for may be furnished as early as practicable.
"It is thought proper to inform you, also, that, shoidd any important facts, particularly phy-
siological and pathological facts, in connexion with these subjects, be communicated, they will
be given to the public."
Reports, in reply to that circular, were received from fifty-seven medical officers ; and, although
extracts from several have appeared in different medical journals, and the subject has, at this time,
lost much of its interest, it has been deemed proper to submit a few of them in connexion with
this report, as forming part of the medical history of the army.
The selection of the reports which follow has been governed by the extent of the personal
experience of their authors in the use of "quinine in large doses;" though the necessity for con-
fining this work within certain limits has necessarily made the selection somewhat arbitrary.
The reports are presented in the order of the rank of their respective authors.
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 645
REPORTS.
REPORT OF SURGEON BENJAMIN F. HARNET.
Received December 5th, 1843.]
Agreeably to a circular from the Surgeon General's office, of August 14th, 1843, I have the
honor to state that my experience in the use of the sulphate of quinia in any considerable quan-
tities commenced with the year 1838. I have only to speak of the sulphate, having had little
to do with the other forms of quinia.
So far as I have been enabled to learn, that which I have used has been the pure sulphate.
If it has been adulterated, it was not to a sufficient degree to materially affect its therapeutical
properties. In public practice, I have been supplied from New York ; in private practice, I have
supplied myself from whatever depots I could obtain the genuine article. I have used it in all
quantities, in almost every variety of the diseases of our climate, and in all conditions of the
system. In ordinary cases, I have prescribed it in doses of from grs. x to grs. xx. In extreme
cases (congestive fever), I have given sixty grains.
The diseases in which I have principally employed this powerful agent have been intermit-
tent, remittent, congestive, and typhoid fevers, affections of the liver and spleen, acute and
chronic rheumatism, gastro-enteritis, colitis, and neuralgia.
My experience and observation warrant me in speaking in most decided terms of the efficacy
and beneficial influence of quinia in what are usually termed large doses — ex. gr.: grs. xv or
grs. XX. So far from producing "injurious effects," or "unpleasant symptoms," its use by me has
invariably been followed by the subsidence of febrile excitement, the arrest of disease, and the
establishment of tonic vital action. If unpleasant effects have ever followed my administration
of it, it was in my early acquaintance with this substance, when four or Jive grains were con-
sidered a maximum dose. Indeed, it would be for me an exceedingly difficult matter to refer to
any case in which other effects were experienced than those I had anticipated and desired. In
the treatment of our common fevers, it is a matter of daily remark, that where four or five
grains, given at intervals of three hours, will add to the violence of the disease ; increase its
exacerbation ; in short, add fuel to the flame ; fifteen or twenty grains, administered with like
intervals, will be attended by the most pleasing results.
In the administration of it, I prefer the adynamic to the hyperdynamic state; although I do
not hesitate to administer it at all periods of disease, if risk is incurred by delay ; and I express
this preference, not because of unpleasant consequences resulting from it when thus adminis-
tered, but rather for the reason that a more decided effect is produced on the system in the
former state than in the latter; and here it shows itself analogous to other remedials.
Diarrhoea and dysentery have never, to my knowledge, resulted as sequeliB to the use of
quinia. On the contrary, there is no better remedy for these same diseases, when used in com-
bination with calomel.
Quinia, like other remedial agents, produces its effects through the medium of the nervous
system. It seems to expend its energies more especially upon those viscera connected with the
portal circle, relieving their congestion and engorgement. Its effects depend in a great degree
upon the quantity given at a dose. In small doses, and frequently repeated, there can be no
doubt of its stimulant properties. On the contrary, given in full doses, it has a decided sedative
and tonic effect, reducing the temperature of the skin, and inducing perspiration. In that
ataxic condition of the system so frequently observed in convalescence from fever, where there
is irregularity, weakness, and frequency of the pulse, irregularity of nutritive action, irregu-
646 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
larity in the distribution of animal heat, irregularity in the functions of the alimentary canal ;
in short, where there is derangement of all the animal functions, nothing will act more promptly
and energetically in restoring the system to a tonic condition than qiiinia in full doses.
It is a powerful adjuvant of the mercurials and other remedial agents in preventing and sub-
duing inflammation; effecting this by the relief it affords to congestions and obstructions of the
portal circle, as well as by its sedative properties, and by the equalizing effect it has \x\)ox\ all
the nutritive functions. By its sedative properties, it will (when given so as to disguise the taste)
speedily allay nausea and vomiting.
Its anti-periodic properties are too well known to need mention in this place. It is sufficient
to say that most diseases of a periodical character immediately yield to its free administration.
It can be used with all confidence of success in enlargements of the liver and spleen. It does
this by the anti-congestive effect it has upon these viscera.
REPORT OF SURGEON RICHARD S. SATTERLEE.
Fort Adams, R. I., August 23, 1843.
Sir: I yesterday received your circular of the 14th instant, and proceed to answer the inter-
rogatories.
1st. I have administered quinine in intermittent fever, at Green Bay, Wisconsin, and at
Plattsburg, New York, in a few cases; but my experience has been chiefly in Florida and the
Cherokee nation, from the fall of 1837 to the fall of 1838, and from the fall of 1840 to the
spring of 1842, in which time I treated a large number of cases of intermittent and remittent,
and a few of congestive fever.
2d. It was always the sulphate of quinine that I prescribed ; and, from its effects, I should
think it quite pure.
3d. My quinine was obtained from the army purveyor at New York.
4th. I have administered quinine in almost all doses, from one to thirty grains, but chiefly
in sixteen-grain doses.
5th. I have employed quinine in congestive fever, in a few instances ; and quite extensively in
intermittent and remittent fevers, between the paroxysms, or in an atonic state of the system,
and never in the tonic state, and liave never known any jjermanent ill effects from it. It some-
times produced temporary pain and giddiness in the head and ringing in the ears, which symp-
toms I have often known to occur whether the medicine was given in small or large doses.
After a few trials with small doses (viz: one to five grains) and large (viz: from ten to twenty),
in intermittent and remittent fevers, I was convinced that the medicine in ordinary cases has a
happier effect when given in one dose of about sixteen grains, so as to bring the system at once
under its influence; which effect, I am convinced, must be produced, in order to break up the
chain of the di.sease.
In congestive fever, my experience has been limited to a very few cases, which occurred at
Pilatka, Florida, in the summer of 1841. I did not give quinine until the feet and legs be-
came cold, the skin clammy, and the mind wandering, (and in two cases the skin was covered
with petechiaj,) when, at the instance of Dr. B. F. Harney, the then medical director of the
army of Florida, I was induced to give it in large and repeated doses. Thirty grains, com-
bined with ten grains of calomel and two of opium, were given every four hours, until two hun-
dred and seventy grains were given ; iced mint-juleps were also given at the same time without
limit, and warm applications to feet and legs, when I had the satisfaction (in all cases treated
in this way) to see the skin become warm; the pulse, from extreme and laborious depression,
become active and strong; the mind composed, and quiet sleep induced. The bowels were
acted on by the calomel, and the discharges were bilious, when the quinine and other stimu-
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 647
lants were discontinued, and a generous diet substituted. The patients, in about twelve days,
were so far recovered as to walk to the steamer, in which they were sent to the north.
6tli. With respect to the mode of operation of quinine, I am of opinion that it is a stimu-
lant, and that it possesses a peculiar effect upon the diseases of malarial origin — breaking up
the paroxysms. Other stimulants do this, but with much less certainty, and, doubtless, by their
stimulating effect ; the jiulse and temperature of the skin are also accelerated ; both proving that
its effect, although peculiar, is yet stimulating. I have, in some instances, given quinine in
small doses, with a view to get from it a tonic effect, in which I have never succeeded; and
have, therefore, come to the conclusion that it is not a tonic. That it has also a quieting effect
on the nervous system, I am convinced.
7th. I have not the least hesitation in saying that the constant and long exposure of the
soldiers of our army in Florida to the influence of malaria, and their suffering from fevers both
remittent and intermittent, was the cause of the great mortality, as well as the great number
of cases of dysentery and diarrhoea that occurred there, and by no means the use of quinine ;
on the contrary, I have often seen intermittent and chronic dysentery, both in the same case,
at the same time checked by that remedy. This was, however, not always the case ; for in
many instances the poor fellows suffered from intermittent and dysentery alternately, until
they were removed out of the malarial district, (which always had a favorable effect,) or death
closed the scene. And I would add, that in all the post mortems, where death was the result
of diseases of ihe bowels, the large intestines were extensively diseased, and the small rarely
at all; and when at all, slightly inflamed.
8th. I saw but very few instances of enlarged or indurated liver or spleen in Florida; and I
do not now recollect a single post mortem in which these organs were not found in a pretty
healthy state.
9th. I have watched the effects of quinine with no little anxiety in a great number of cases
of remittent and intermittent fever; and I consider it, properly administered, the only remedy
to be relied on in these cases. Of course, the stomach and bowels must first be cleansed, and
anj^ local inflammation overcome; when I administer the quinine any time after the close of the
hot stage, giving at least six hours for the medicine to afiect the system ; and when given in a
dose of sixteen grains at one time, I have almost never known it fail to break up the disease
without the recurrence of another paroxysm ; but if six hours are not allowed for the action of
the remedy, it frequently will not prevent the next, but almost always the next paroxysm but
one; but an equal quantity given in small doses is much less likely to do so.
I have often given quinine in combination with Dover's powder, and sometimes with calo-
mel ; but this was when the disease was coupled with dysentery or diarrhoea, and the latter
without reference at all to the effects of the quinine. The dose above mentioned (viz : sixteen
grains) I And sufficient to overcome the disease; but I have never seen any permanent ill effects
on the system occur from much larger doses.
The above is respectfully submitted, in obedience to your circular, by your most obedient
servant,
K. S. SATTERLEE, Siirgeon U. S. Army.
Dr. Thomas Lawson,
Surffcon General U. S. Army, Washintjlon, D. C.
REPORT OF SURGEON ROBERT C. WOOD.
Buffalo Barracks, N. Y., August 25, 1843.
Sir: I have just received a "circular" from your office, in reference to the administratiou of
quinine in large doses, and hasten to reply to your several queries.
648 REPORTS ON THK ADMINISTRATION
1st. I have prescribed quinine for sixteen or seventeen years on the Upper Mississippi, in
Florida, and in this section of country, in commands varying from two hundred to five hundred
men.
2d. I have used the sulphate.
3d. It has generally been supplied by the medical purveyor at New York, and believed to be
pure.
4th. I have given 25 grs. in 12 hours, in 5 grs. doses, at intervals of two or three hours, but
generally in doses of 2 or 3 grs. every three hours.
5tli. I have administered quinine in fevers of a remittent and intermittent type, in typhus, in
typhus icterodes, in eruptive fevers, in diseases of the serous exhalent vessels, in diseases of an
atonic state where no glandular obstruction existed. In the intermittents of the Upper Missis-
sippi it exercises a perfect control, much more so than in fevers of a similar character at the south.
In the adynamic state it is decidedly indicated, and less injurious effects would ensue from its
free use than when the vital powers are in an exalted condition. In many of the diseases con-
nected with the digestive system it would be contra-indicated, as in dysentery, enteritis, gastri-
tis, hepatitis, &c. ; also in diseases of tlie respiratory system, as in bronchitis, laryngitis, pneu-
monia, &c.
6th. I consider the operation of the sulphate of quinine as tonic.
7th. I have been always oppos'ed to the administration of quinine in very large doses, and
have no doubt that dysentery and diarrhoea have been aggravated by the excessive use of this
remedy.
8th. In relation to my observation and experience in regard to the influence of the climate of
Florida, the acute diseases incident thereto, or the use of quinine in inducing acute and chronic
affections of the liver and spleen :
During a service of nearly three years in Florida, fevers of a remittent and intermittent type,
with dysentery and diarrhoea, were the prevalent diseases. In the consolidated quarterly report
embracing the months of July, August, and September, 1839, selected as exhibiting a large
number of sick, (wliicli report was prepared from the monthly reports of all the medical officers
then serving in Florida,) the following diseases are reported as the most prevalent: intermittents
573, remittents 149, dysentery 191, diarrhoea 175, rheumatism 77, catarrh 79. The whole
number taken sick during the quarter was 1,918, of which number 26 died — about 1 in 73.
Many of the posts were selected, necessarily, without reference to health ; and disease was fre-
quently engendered from other causes than those of climate, as forced marches, excessive fatigue,
want of quarters, &c. — in recruits producing despondency and disease. Aff"ections of the liver
and spleen prevailed as the sequelse of intermittents, though generally reported as intermittents,
the primary disease. Many cases of this character were under my care in the general hospital
at Tampa Bay. I have always been of opinion that the administration of quinine in large doses
affgravated glandular obstruction of the liver in Florida. From the nature of the service in
that Territory, it was desirable to check intermittents, and restore the soldier to duty with as
little delay as possible. Hence, the free use of quinine controlling the periodical disease, but
eventually aggravating hepatic obstruction, and oftentimes ending in serous effusion, debility,
and deatli.
Tlie troops actively employed in Florida, with frequent change of position, enjoyed better
liealth than tliose who were permanent ; which I'act corresponds with the medical statistics of
otlier services.
The moral despondency, consequent upon the_ failure of every effort to meet the enemy, was
operative in adding largely to the sick-reports of officers and men.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,
R. C. WOOD,
Thomas Lawson, Esq., Surgeon U. S. Army.
Surgeon General U. S. Army, Washingtmt, D. C.
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 649
HEPORT OF SURGEON BURTON RANDALL.
Fort Gibson, Septemher 16, 1843.
Sir: In answer to the interrogatories contained in your circular of August 14, I have the
honor to state :
1. That I have occasionally prescrihed quinine in very large doses, since 1840, with the hap-
piest results, in congestive, remittent, and intermittent fevers. I also tried it last fall at New
Orleans Barracks, in yellow fever ; but it failed, as it always has, in my practice, where reaction
is distinct. I have also prescribed it in neuralgia with beneficial results.
2. I have generally prescribed the sulphate; and, with one or two exceptions, it was pure.
3. The quinine I have generally used has been, to the best of my recollection, of French and
German manufacture.
4. I prescribe it in doses of from two grains to one drachm ; the former dose every hour in
intermittents, where the intervals between the paroxysms are sufficiently long; where they are
not, I give it in larger doses. This treatment rarely fails to check the paroxysm in one or two
days.
5. I have employed the remedy in the above-mentioned diseases, and in very minute doses,
as a tonic, where there was great debility and prostration of strength, without organic disease,
produced by almost any cause.
I never prescribe it when the powers of life are in an exalted condition, and, therefore, do
not know what its effects might be under such circumstances.
6. I believe the medicine beneficial in fever, by its tonic and sedative efi"ectg.
7. The acute diseases incident to Florida, and those the army suftered most from, were remit-
tent and intermittent fevers, dysentery, diarrhoea, and rheumatism. I never saw a case of
acute or chronic disease of the liver, spleen, or bowels, that I thought was produced by quinine;
on the contrary, I think fewer diseases of the spleen, and fewer dropsies, come under my obser-
vation since quinine came into general use, and calomel ceased to be considered a specific, and
therefore used with more caution.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
B. RANDALL, Surgeon U. S. A.
Dr. Thomas Lawson,
Surgeon General U. S. A., Washington, D. C.
REPORT OF assistant SURGEON (SURGEON) J. J. B. WRIGHT.
August 31, 1843.
Sir: In reply to the interrogatories contained in the circular from your office, dated August
14th, instant, I have the honor to state as follows:
Answer to question 1. — Previous to April, 1841, I had never exhibited quinine in larger
qiiantity than twenty-five grains in twelve consecutive hours.
I have a distinct recollection of the circumstances under which, with a trembling hand and
doubting hope, I gave the quinine for the first time to the extent specified. The patient was
a lady, of great worth to the community and her family ; and the disease, which made its ap-
proach in the shape of remittent bilious fever, had lapsed into intermittent, assuming a malig-
nancy of aspect which awakened apprehensions for the issue. I did not leave the bedside of my
patient during the continuance of the last paroxysm, for it presented all the symptoms which
indicate serious tendency to congestion ; and I was persuaded that, if another could not be pre-
vented, she could not survive its termination.
g 96 82
650 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
Under this impression, and having confidence in the medicine, (if it could he introduced in
sufficient quantity without incurring the risk of its poisonous effects,) I resolved to disregard
the rule under which I had i'ormerly acted, and to oxhihit the quinine to an extent — to he
determined hy its effect upon the system — exhibited in divided doses. Commencing, therefore,
as soon after the suh.sidence of the paroxysm as, in my judgment, was safe, I gave the lady four
grains of sulphate of quinine every two hours (increasing the last dose to five grains) until
twenty-five had heen given, anxiously watching the effect of each dose. With a degree of
satisfaction I have seldom felt under like circumstances, I witnessed the index of the clock
pass the mark which had indicated the period of approach of the previous paroxysm, for I felt
that my patient was safe. Her convalescence dated from that time.
Suhsequentl}', while engaged in private practice, and for the first years of my service in the
army, I acted under the rule comprised in the particulars of the case to which I have alluded.
In 1834, while on duty in Arkansas, I witnessed many cases of the malignant Lilious i'ever
of that country. The cases which hecame the suhject of my charge were treated in the usual
way. Quinine entered into the list of remedies, hut was only exhibited, under the canon, when
an approach to intermission or a distinct remission was api)arent. One case, however, occurs
to me as an exception to what I have stated, and, as having a hearing on the question pro-
pounded, I will allude to it.
Lieutenant (now Captain) H., of the 7th regiment of infantr}', whilst on detached service in
August or September, sustained an attack of remittent bilious fever, and, with a large majority
of his command in like condition, was brought into Fort Gibson. For several days the fever
pursued a regular course, and afforded grounds for belief that it was approaching a favorable
crisis. Suddenly, however^ a total change succeeded. The paroxysm anticipated the usual
hour of incursion, and was characterized by all the symptoms of grave congestive fever — the
brain being the principal seat of congestion. In one hour after the occurrence of the paroxysm,
the sensorial functions were abolished, and very soon profound coma supervened; the extrem-
ities were cold as marble, the pulse almost extinct, the sphincters of the bladder and rectum
utterly paralyzed, the respiration labored and irregular, the eyes upturned and injected; in
fine, the patient seemed in the article of death.
All my sympathies being awakened for my friend, and all my anxieties for my patient, I
hastened to the encounter, but, I must confess, with painful misgivings of my ability to contend
successfully with the disease. Having at that time no precedent or authority for the exhibition
of quinine in large doses, under such circumstances, I gave it in divided quantities, iji union
with calomel and camphor, to the extent in all of twenty-five grains ; applied cold to the shorn
head, epispastics to the thighs, sinapisms to the legs and arms, an-d, if I mistake not, opened
the temporal arteries and applied cups to the neck. Under this treatment, the patient gradu-
ally recovered, with the loss of his hearing — almost total for some time, and, though ultimately
greatly improved, audition is even at this day defective.
In this case, I confined the use of the quinine within the limit which my previous experience
had taught me was safe, under dissimilar circumstances; and I shall never cease to award it
the credit of having saved to his friends and the service a most wortliy man and meritorious
oflacer.
If it be said that the subsidence of the symptoms in this case was due to the other remedies
employed, and that quinine was not the efficient agent in accomplishing the cure, I have only
to say, in support of its claims, that I had never, at that time, witnessed recovery in a case ap-
parently so utterly desperate ; and that, since then, I have only known a fatal issue averted when
the quinine has been administered in large doses.
My late "experience" in the use of this article has induced me to ibarvel at the over-caution
with which I formerly exhibited it, and I can hardly repress a smile when I bring to my mental
vision the spectres which my imagination conjured up.
In 1840 I was assigned to the Florida army, and ordered «i duty at Garey's Ferry (Fort
OP QUININE IN LAEGE DOSES 651
Heileman). I arrived early in October, and succeeded to the cliarge of a full hospital. A ma-
jority of the cases (excluding those of intermittent fever) were remittent bilious, with manifest
tendency to irregular sanguineous determinations and local congestions. I foimd at this post
a deficient supply of quinine; and, estimating highly its importance in extreme cases, which I
was prepared to expect (having already a foretaste of their advent), I husbanded my small re-
sources, and, in ordinary cases of intermittent, gave what arc regarded the substitutes for the
bark .
Not 3'et having met with any notice of the modern practice with the article, and having as
an example of the safety and advantage of its exhibition, during the paroxysm of fever, only the
solitary case of Captain H., I did not rely upon it as a principal agent, but confined its exhibi-
tion principally to the apyrexial period of congestive intermittent^ and the period of remission
in the more continued forms of fever. My recollection revives the particulars of sundry cases,
in combating which I fought with the weapons ordinarily used in such encounters; but in en-
tering the lists with which, I should now press into my service (what I regard almost an ipse
agmen) the sulphate of quinine.
In November, 1840, I joined the 1st regiment of infantry, which had recently taken post at
Sava-Sota (Fort Armistead), a position combining, in an eminent degree, all the circumstances
calculated to afiect unfavorably the health of troops. During the winter, the command suf-
fered only as might have been anticipated from their exposed situation, taking into considera-
tion the fact that the regiment had been three years in the field, and deprived (for the last few
months, at least) of a due supply of vegetable aliment. Intermittent fever prevailed to a con-
siderable extent in the command, and was interrupted, ordinarily, by the use of quinine (grs. v,
three times, during the interval).
My largest experience in the use of quinine having occurred during my service with the 1st
infantry, and in the quarter ending SOtli of June, 1841, I beg leave to quote from my report to
the Surgeon General's office for that quarter of the year :
"That the 1st infantry has encountered disease since the last quarterly report, the present
will abundantly testify. A strong scorbutic diathesis j^ervaded the command from the com-
mencement of winter, which imparted to most of the forms of disease which occurred during
that season some of the features of its own character. Dysentery, with tendency to total ca-
chexia, and intermittent fever, constituted the bulk of the sick-report.
"About the 1st of April, there occurred more cases of remittent fever than we were prepared
to expect so early m the season ; but surprise gave place almost to consternation, when, toward
the close of the month, there were added to the report twenty cases per diem of congestive
fever. Fort Armistead was abandoned on the 2d of May," &c.
The sick, to the number of 200 or more, were taken to Cedar Keys, and ultimately transferred
to Cantonment Morgan, three miles distant, where, the report goes on to state, " after con-
siderable delay, and some hurtful exposure, we are very comfortable in hospital. The seat of
congestion in this fever varied in the several cases. In some, the brain — in others, the liver
and spleen — and in some others, the lungs constituted the principal seat of engorgement, as was
evidenced by the symptoms, and by autopsic examination in the fatal cases. * * *
"Excessive prostration of physical power seemed cotemporaneous with the attack, and the
mental fimctions sustained early impairment. The whole surface of the body, but particularly
the extremities, became preternaturally cold after the first paroxysm — in which, however, but a
small degree of increased heat was developed. A cold, clammy, or limpid perspiration was
incident to this condition of the skin. The tongue, at first pale and indented, sometimes smooth
and shining, became dry and hard ; tlie teeth were encrusted with sordes ; the pulse was fre-
quent, irritable, and often intermittent; the alvine discharges watery, and sometimes bloody,
with tenesmus; the whole surface of the body presented a shrunken and contracted appearance;
the respiration was hurried and irregular. The patient, in fine, presented that indescribable
picture of wretchedness peculiar to those forms of disease in which the l^dentia impress with
652 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
such intensity as to overwhelm the vital energies, and prevent tlie development of normal dis-
eased action.
"The treatment consisted iSrc. * * ** :*i * ^ ^
but, although my observation, during the progress of this fever, corresponds with all my pre-
vious experience in regard to the impotence (to say the least) of the lancet as a remedy in ad-
vanced congestive fever, and will induce me to banish it from my list of curative means in such
cases, in all future time, I am happy in having been directed to a practice, of which, if I
obeyed the impulses of my feelings, I should express myself in terms of extravagant commenda-
tion. I allude to the exhibition of sulphate of quinine in twenty, thirty, and even forty-grain
doses, alone, or in combination with calomel.
" I will content myself for the present with saying, that In several instances it has seemed to
rescue the subjects of this form of disease from the most impending danger. * * *
" It is due to Drs. Harney and Randall^ of the army, to admit that I entered on the practice
at their urgent suggestion; for I will confess that I entertained much misgiving of its safety.
"My doubts are now utterly dissipated, and I would give a half, or even a whole drachm of
quinine, with as little hesitation as the old 'ten and ten' of Dr. Rush."
Having no precise statistical record in my possession, of the cases of congestive fever above
alluded to, I can only state, in general terms, that the subjects of the disease to whom, in the
report, I refer as exposed to the "most imminent danger," and to whom the quinine was ex-
hibited in large doses, with advantage, could not have been less than fifty.
My subsequent experience with the article relates principally to its use in the remittent and
intermittent fevers which came under my notice in the summer and autumn of 1842, in Florida;
a few cases only of congestive disease having presented during this year. As a remedy in all
these cases, the article fully sustained the favorable character it had previously established in
my estimation.
Answer to question 2. — It was always the sulphate of quinine that I prescribed, and, in my
opinion, it was pure.
Answer to question 3. — Furnished by the army medical purveyor.
Fourth question. — Replies to this question are contained in what I have said above.
Ansicer to question 5th. — In reply, I have to state that I have rarely exhibited the article in
other forms of disease (in large doses) than those above stated. I am not aware that I have
discovered any disparity of effect in the action of the remedy, determined by the different states
of the system, in reference to its tonic or atonic condition. I have never exhibited it when there
seemed to be present an inflammatory diathesis (contradistinguished from a febrile condition),
nor would my recent experience induce me to rely with confidence on the quinine, as a support-
ing agent, in a prostrate condition of the system, unless the prostration could be regarded as
the effect of the febrific agency still in operation.
I have not witnessed injurious eftects from the medicine in any case that I can call to memory;
and the only unpleasant symptoms that I have observed to follow its u-se were more or less
buzzing in the ears, and occasionally slight dizziness. These symptoms have uniformly sub-
sided with the paroxysm.
Ansicer to question Gth. — It is said the contemporaries of the Countess of Cinchon — the friars,
who first published the fame and disseminated the use of the Peruvian bark as a remedy for
intermittent fever — regarded it as a specific, perhaps as an antidote, to the poison of malaria;
and modern observation seems to have furnished some reasons for doubting if the speculations
which have been indulged by their successors have led to any better conceptions of the modus
agendi of its efficient principles. With the profes.sion, it is dangerous, now-a-days, to talk of
"specifics," or even of antidotes, unless we are ready with a philosophical rationale of every
step in the process by which the end is attained; and yet, however humiliating to the pride of
science, we must admit that there are many things connected with the principles and practice
of medicine that we do not comprehend. Individuals form theories ; they indulge in elaborate
OF QUININE IN LAEGE DOSES. 653
and ingenious hypotheses, and admire the creations of their fancies, the fictions of their closet
speculations, until they actually persuade themselves, and others too, that their conclusions are
the result of legitimate deductions from ascertained facts — admitted premises; that even the
spirit of Lord Bacon itself presided over tlieir deliberations, and has alfixed its seal to the truth
of their philosophy. These systems are destined to last until some succeeding revolutionist in
medicine saps their foundations, to erect on their ruins a superstructure no less comely to look
upon, hut awaiting, in after time, a similar fate, because speculations, and not facts, constituted
their basis.
Thus it has ever been since the dawn of medicine; and we apprehend its future historians will
but record a succession of like events, until it shall have established for itself a place among the
fixed and certain sciences.
We would not controvert the truth that medicine has made giant strides, in the way of im-
provement, within the last century. On the contrary, we are proud to boast that every year
has added to the resources of the art ; for that genuine inductive philosophy has infused its spirit
into the investigations of many of its ardent cultivators.
But there are many secrets in physiology and therapeutics yet imdivulged; and, perhaps, a
precise and definite conception of the manner by which certain articles of medicine effect a cure
in diseased conditions of the system will remain among the desiderata imtil medicine shall
have received the last finishing touch from the hand of science.
We mean these remarks as prefatory to the expression of a doubt whether the bark, or its
proximate principles, arrest intermittent fever, and other forms of febrile affection dependent
on miasmatic origin, by virtue of the tonic property inherent in them. We are not prepared
fully to deny that the medicine possesses tonic virtues; it is an opinion sanctioned by the con-
current belief of the profession for more than a century. But my late experience authorizes and
inclines me to believe that the remedy exercises over fevers of this genus a peculiar and specific
control, independent of, and distinct from, any effect which it may be presumed to have upon
the tonicity of the muscular fibre.
Some practitioners, whose experience in the use of this article of the materia medica has been
by no means inconsiderable, have been led by observation of its effects to class it among the
sedaniia (as is intimated by the terms of the query to which I am making an humble attempt
to respond), and several plausible articles have been written in support of this view of its
properties.
It must be admitted, that if I were reduced to the alternative of adopting one or the other of
these opinions in regard to the character of the medicine, my late observations would incline
me to entertain the latter, though some unexplained facts would still stare me in the face and
perplex my understanding. They who contend that its curative agency is due to a direct eflect
on the tonicity of the muscular fibre, will proscribe its use in all cases where this vital property,
or the contractility of the system, may be presumed to be in an exalted condition. But the
experienced physician of modern times, in southern climates particularly, will tell you that he
is in the practice of administering it when the condition of those vital properties is, seemingly
at least, above par. For instance, he exhibits the article at the very height of the paroxysm of
the remittent fever of his climate, and finds, as a result of its action, a reduction in the force
and frequency of the pulse, a diminution of animal heat, a moist condition of the skin, a subsi-
dence of pain and restlessness; in fine, a sudden conversion from febrile disturbance to fair con-
valescence. Now, if the experience and observation be right, can the theory be otherwise than
wrong?
On the other hand, those who maintain that the remedy acts by sedation, do not hesitate to
exhibit the article when the powers of life are depressed to the utmost limit compatible with
existence ; and they aver that its agency is curative under these circumstances.
True it is, that the writer has himself frequently given the quinine in both the conditions
stated; and, in both, his experience teaches that advantage resulted from the practice. He has
654 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
witnessed a decided improvement follow the exhibition of 9 ij of quinine, repeated in two
hours, in advanced congestive fever, when the condition of tlie case was characterized by a
lethargic state of the sensorial functions, verging on coma; cold extremities; cool surface, bathed
in limpid perspiration; dry and pallid tongue; feeble and fluttering pulse, &c. And again,
while on duty in Florida, in the summer of 1842, in charge of the general hospital, it was his
usual custom, after attentive observation of the safety of the plan, to exhibit 20 grains of qui-
nine at any period of the paroxysm of the remittent fever of that country; and he is safe in
declaring that the practice was successful, as the quarterly reports to the Surgeon General's
office will testify — not a single case of death from remittent fever having been reported during
the season, nor, I may add, from their sequela).
In southern climates, where high atmospheric temperature prevails, the system, it is well
known, becomes languid and relaxed. This condition is the effect, no doubt, of the exhausting
influence of the prolonged action of caloric. Indirect debility is induced, and, with this loss of
tone in the system, its irritability is exalted. Excessive mobility is impressed on the whole
apparatus of life. The pulse is quickened; morbid sensibilities and new susceptibilities, mental
anck^hysical, are awakened; and hence do the "children of the sun" become distinguished, in
all that relates to temperament and disposition, all that constitutes peculiarity in sectional
character, from their cool, calculating, and deliberate brethren of the north.
But, if this is true in regard to the system in health, it is no less so when it is under the
influence of morbific agents; and it might, with some show of plausibility, be maintained that,
in this condition, tonics operate indirectly hy sedation, quieting excitement by imparting tone.
And thus, perhaps, could they who entertain this view of the medicinal i)roperties of the quinine
reconcile their notions of it with its effects, as illustrated in the cases of fever, in which it has
been given with advantage in the pyrexial 'period.
It is said that recent observations, in our own and other countries, have demonstrated the ad-
vantages of quinine in acute inflammatory rheumatism, and other forms of disease in which
stimulant tonics are, confessedly, not only inappropriate, but manifestly pernicious.
We have the testimony of such men as Morton, Fothergill, Haygarth, &c. , of the last age, in
favor of Peruvian bark in inflammatory rheumatism; and the present professor of midwifery in
the University College, London, (Dr. Davis,) furnishes unequivocal evidence of the iiaramount
advantage of the remedy in such cases. (London Lancet, February, 1841.)
The writer has no experience of its effects exhibited in such conditions of tlie system ; but, if
time should verify its claim to confidence in those diseases, it will but furnish another argument
in support of the position I have assumed, that its medicinal properties are not fully compre-
hended or established.
There are strong reasons for believing that the antimonial medicines possess direct febrifuge
virtues, independent of any influence they exert over the heart and arteries, by their nauseating
effect upon the stomach. The action of mercury in the cure of lues venerea has never been ex-
plained in a way which can seem satisfactory to those who profess to exhibit no article of medi-
cine, the precise physiological effect of which they do not understand. To designate a whole
class of remedies as "alteratives," is but to admit that they produce their effects in some oc-
cult way, which we do not comprehend. I might go on and enumerate almost half of what is
contained in the Armamentarium of physic, and include the whole in this category; but I will
finish what I have to say in regard to the "modus operandi" of quinine in the fevers of mala-
rial regions, and write myself the advocate of the notion entertained by the Jesuits, to wit: its
agency is specific.
It is thought that this article, in combination with mercurials (calomel particularly), accele-
rates the supervention of ptyalism. I have no doubt of the fact. I am disposed to ascribe it to
a presumed chemical decomposition, in part, of the combined articles in the stomach, and anew
arrangement of a portion of the sulph: acid of the quinine with a due proportion of the oxyd:
hydrarg: of the calomel, to form, perhaps, the yellow sulphate of mercury — a preparation of the
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 655
mineral known to produce salivation as speedily as any other of the mercurials; or, if the chemists
advise that no incompatibility exists between calomel and quinine, and that no such presumed
change can occur in the stomach to account for this alleged fact, then I would suggest that the
latter article facilitates the mercurial impression, simply by counteracting the morbid impres-
sion of the febrific agent, and the diseased actions hence resulting (in correspondence with
the opinion before stated, viz: by its specific effect) — thus bringing the susceptibilities of the
system to a condition approximating the healthy standard; for it must be admitted that, just
in proportion to the intensity of morbid action, is the difficulty in establishing the constitutional
operation of the mineral in any given case of disease.
Quere 7. — Broussais, in his "Chronic Phlegmasia," has shown, as we think very satis-
factorily, that long-continued atmospheric heat, combined with moisture, has an invariable
teniency to induce chronic inflamation of the mucous coat of the larger bowels; thus giving
origin to diarrhoea and dysentery, with ultimate liability to ulceration of the colon and rectum.
High and long-continued atmospheric heat and* moisture distinguish the climate of Florida;
and when it is remembered that the centripetal tendency of the fluids, in the cold stages of
intermittent, (so frequently recurring among tlie troops serving in that Territory,) determine
congestive accumulations and irritations in the internal organs, we think the fact stated in the
circular is susceptible of explanation, without charging anything to the account of quinine.
To say that, since the practical introduction of the article in large doses, diseases of the
bowels have become more frequent and more fatal, is, in other words, to affirm tliat, during
the last two years of the war, these affections had become more frequent and more fatal; a fact
which might have been anticipated, since the army had been long in the Territory, and, conse-
quently, (if the foregoing etiological views be correct,) longer exposed to the causes which in-
duce "diseases of the bowels."
No pathological view of these diseases can, it is believed, bo correct, which is irrespective of
the condition of the skin. It is fair to presume tliat this organ is primarily impressed, and that
the lining membrane of the prima via is implicated, in virtue of the intimate sympathy which
is acknowledged to exist between it and the former. The persistence of the bowel aflection,
then, is probably due to the derangement of the dermoid apparatus; and, until the latter is re-
stored to its integrity of function, the morbid condition of the bowel can hardly be expected to
subside under any plan of treatment. Broussais has remarked, somewhere, that when the
skin, in these forms of disease, presents a straw-colored appearance and inelastic condition,
ulceration of the mucous coat of the bowels may be apprehended, and that, in a large majority
of such cases, a fatal result will ensue.
A very enlarged experience with the bowel affections of Florida has impressed strongly on my
mind the opinion, that there are few forms of disease in tlie catalogue, less amenable to the re-
sources of the art.
Answer fo question 8th. — I think the most conspicuous effect of the climatic influences in ope-
ration in the Territory of Florida is exhibited in the almost universal tendency to chronic
phlegmasia of the mucous coat of the colon and rectum, manifesting itself in the symptoms of
diarrhoea and dysentery ; at least, this is the result of my experience. It is assuredly true in
reference to the efiect of climate, &c., on the army during the last two years of the war. The
congestive fevers of that climate have nothing peculiar in their character; and the common re-
mittent, as it prevailed among the troops, did not differ in any particular from remittent bilious
fever as it occurs elsewhere, unless in mildness of character, and tractability under proper
treatment.
Post-mortem examinations were conducted in a large majority of the fatal cases in the gene-
ral hospital at Cedar Keys, as well as at the post hospitals, at different times under my charge
in Florida. My observation teaches tliat the liver and spleen less frequently presented evidence
of diseased condition than is usual in sections of the country where miasmatic causes of disease
prevail. The proportion of cases in which these complications existed was infinitely smaller
656 REPORTS ON THE ADMtNISTRATION
in Florida than I had previously observed in Arkansas. Even the swelled spleen, so common
in other aguish districts, was a rare spectacle.
I can readily conceive, in explanation of this apparent immunity from congestive enlarge-
ment, and from other obvious disease, on the part of the liver and spleen, where ulceration
exists in the larger bowels, that, in obedience to the law pathological, as well as physiological,
"itbi irrHado, ibi fluxus," the fluids impelled toward the central organs (under circumstances
calculated to produce irregular distributions) are diverted to the point wliere irritation exists in
greatest intensity. In other words, the irritation of the bowels, serving as " a diverticulum,"
secures the liver and spleen from an influx of blood sufficient to derange their healthy functions,
much less to leave after death appreciable traces of organic lesion. I have no reason to think,
therefore, that the use of quinine had any agency in inducing acute and chronic affections of
the liver and sjileen.
With the exception of some few cases of sub-acute dysentery, and the fevers above alluded to,
and some cases of inveterate acute ophthalmia,' the forms of disease which fell under my notice,
while serving in the Territory, were principally chronic; most of them, perhaps, protean forms
of malarial affections.
I am, sir, very respectfully,
J. J. B. WRIGHT, Assistant Surgeon U. S. Army.
Th. L.\wson, M. D.,
Surgeon General U. S. Army.
report of assistant surgeon (sdrgeon) bernard m. byrne.
Fort Marion, St. Augustine, East Florida,
October 29, 1843.
Sir: In reply to your circular, dated the 14th of August, 1843, on the subject of quinine,
I have the honor to state :
1st. That my experience in the administration of this medicine in very large doses has not
been extensive, as it has only been within the last eighteen months that I have undertaken to
test its powers when administered in doses as large as xx grains; and even during that
period, my opportunities of experiment were quite limited, in consequence of the very healthy
state of the troops with which I served.
2d. It was always the sulphate of quinine which I prescribed, and I have every reason to be-
lieve that its quality was pure.
3d. The quinine which I prescribed was always obtained from the purveying department of
the United States army.
4th. The largest doses in which I have administered this remedy did not exceed 9 ij, and it
was only on rare occasions that I gave so large a quantity at a single dose. My average dose
was about four grains, and the average quantity which I administered within twenty-four hours
did not exceed one scruple.
5th. Intermittent and remittent fevers, neuralgia, and rheumatism were the principal
diseases in which I administered this remedy in large doses, and the state of apyrexia was the
one generally chosen for its exhibition.
In the treatment of intermittent fevers, I have, for at least seven years, been in the habit of
administering, during the period of intermission, four grains of quinine every six hours for the
first day ; and this I found almost invariably interrupted the paroxysms. I then diminished
the quantity to six grains in the twenty-four hours, and continued its exhibition for about five
days longer; and it was but seldom, after having thus administered about 3j of this medicine,
that a paroxysm returned, unless the patient had been exposed to fresh causes of disease.
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. G57
1 have, witliin the last eighteen months, frequently resorted to the method of administering
3 ss. of this medicine in a single dose the first day, xv grains the second, and x grains the
third day ; and my experience has heen such as to induce me to ahandon this practice. The
convenience of being ahle to administer the medicine iu fewer doses is all the advantaj;e which
I have heen ahle to discover in this latter over my former method of employing it; while, on
the other hand, the more frequent returns of the disease, the temporary deafness and blindness,
together with other unpleasant nervous symptoms, which I have seen so frequently result from
its exliibition iu those larger doses, have determined me hereafter, in the treatment of inter-
mittent fever, not to administer this medicine in doses larger than four grains, unless in cases
of emergency.
I have, in several cases of severely congestive intermittent and remittent fevers, administered
quinine in doses as large as 9 ij, and repeated this quantity five times in the twenty-four hours,
and, as I conceived, with the most happy effect; and I can readily believe that even larger
doses, and more frequently repeated, may be employed with advantage in averting a fatal
paroxysm in fevers of a highly malignant grade.
The instances in which I have given quinine in large doses during the hot stage of fever,
have been too few to enable me to form a decisive opinion as to the general expediency of this
practice. I have, in six cases of remittent fever, administered 3 ss. during the jjeriod of exa-
cerbation, and the result was such as to encourage me to repeat the experiment when opportu-
nity offers. In four of these cases, the most jsrominent symptoms were greatly alleviated in
about half an hour after the exhibition of the remedy ; violent headache, pain in the back,
and restlessness, were jiromptly relieved, and the fever subsided in a much shorter time than
in the previous exacerbations, in which quinine had not been administered. In the other two
cases, I was not ahle to discover any marked result from the exhibition of this medicine.
I have frequently employed quinine in doses of from x to xxx grains in the treatment of neu-
ralgia and chronic rheumatism, and very generally with decided benefit.
6th. So little is known respecting the modus operandi of any therapeutic agent, that it is with
uiuch diffidence I venture to ofter an opinion on that of the remedy in question. I am, how-
ever, in the employment of this medicine, governed by some theoretic views, of which I shall
here present a brief outline.
Whether quinine may act as a "stimulant,'" a "tonic," or a "sedative," appears to me to
depend on the condition of the system at the time of its administration, and on the quantity
administered. The fact that this medicine has frequently the effect of accelerating the action of
the heart, of occasioning fullness of the head, buzzing in the ear, and other distressing cerebral
symptoms, aflbrds, I should think, sufficient proof that it is not exclusivdy "sedative" in its
action. On the otlier hand, it is difficult to regard an agent as exclusively stimulant or tonic,
which, when administered in large doses, during the paroxysm of fever, has the effect of allay-
ing pain and subduing the febrile exacerbation. Whatever, therefore, maybe the nature of the
primary impression which it makes, whether stimulant, tonic, or sedative, so varied are its
effects in diflerent conditions of the system, and when administered in difierent quantities,
that it appears to me no practical advantage can result from giving it any other name than that
of quinine. On the contrary, were it even passible to determine with certainty that the first
impression of this agent is that of a "stimulant," it might lead to much practical mischief
to designate it by that name, since it is known, under various circumstances, to exercise the
opposite effect. The same objection would obtain against naming it "sedative," even were it
certain that such was its primary impression on the system. All that is known respecting the
primary eflect of this medicine is, that it is capable of making a powerful impression on the
nervous system. What the nature of that impression is, will probably never be known ; nor
is it likely that a knowledge of it would be attended with any practical benefit. Its impres-
sion must, of course, be specifically diflerent from that of all other agents ; and if it be exjje-
S. 9 6 S.-i
658 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
dient to designate it by any jiiirticular name, none can be so expressive as tlie term quinine im-
pression. It is only to the effects which result from tliis impression, both in the normal and
pathological conditions of the system, that the inquirj' of the ])hysiciau can be profitably directed.
It appears probable that the remedial agency of this medicine depends on the counter-impres-
sion which it makes on the nervous system, and especially on the ganglionic portion of it; and
if this position could be established, many of the apparent contradictions respecting its stimu-
lant and sedative character might be reconciled.
We have strong reasons for believing that it is principally on the ganglionic system of nerves
that miasmatic and pestilential poisons make their first impression; and it is in accordance with
a well-established medical axiom to infer, that an agent which can produce a powerful counter-
impression on the same system of nerves, may thereby modify or control the morbific efi'ects of
those poisons. That quinine exercises a powerful impression on the nervous system, is suffi-
ciently evinced by the nervous commotion which it generally occasions when administered in
the normal state of the system. But it is found, on the other hand, that large doses of this
medicine, administered in the paroxysm of an idiopathic fever, are not only attended with less ner-
vous distress than in the former case, but have the effect of assuaging pain and of alleviating all the
febrile symptoms. This apparent discrepancy can be explained on the ]>rinciple of counter-
impression. Quinine, when administered in the normal state of the system, meets with nothing
to modify its specific impression, and it therefore manifests all the phenomena by which this
impression is characterized. It has, on the contrary, in the case of idiojjathic fever, to contend
with the morbid influences of a poison, which must necessarily modify, if not entirely control,
its effects; and the consequence is, that it manifests less of the quinine impression than when
administered in health. Tiiis view of the subject is illustrated by the effects of large doses of
ojiium in tetanus, of colchicum in rheumatism, of emetics in croup, and of other powerful ther-
apeutic agents, which seem to expend their energies in overcoming morbid conditions of the
system.
When the impression which quinine makes on the system is sufficiently powerful to overcome
that of the poison, the primary link in the chain of morbid action is broken, and what are
termed its sedative effects become manifest. Thus, it would appear that this remedy, when
administered to a person in health, may powerfully excite the nervous system, or merely pro-
duce a "tonic" effect, according to the quantity exhibited; while, in cases of disease, its effects
are as various as are the pathological conditions which it is brought to oppose.
Guided by views of which these form an outline, I seldom exhibit this remedy in doses larger
than four grains, except in cases of severe disease. In fevers of a malignant grade, which
require prompt and powerful treatment, and especially in such as are supposed to result from
miasmatic poison, I am disposed to administer quinine in very large doses from the first, and
to repeat it during any stage of tlie disease, in quantities corresponding with the severity and
persistency of the symptoms. In diseases of this character the poison makes rapid inroads on
the system, and, if not checked within the first few hours, there is but little hope of controlling
it. Under such circumstances, there is no time for tampering, and our itractice must be ener-
getic and decisive, or else unsuccessful. But in ordinary cases of intermittent fever, and in all
mild and chronic forms of disease, I am decidedly opposed to large doses of this remedy, as I
believe them to be generally inexpedient, and oftentimes mischievous.
We have much reason to believe tliat, in a great majority' of cases of intermittent fever, the
return of the paroxysm depends more upon the habit which the system has acquired than upon
the immediate action of the poison ; and if this be true, our remedies .should be directed with a
view to the permanency rather than to the force of their effects. It is established by ample
experience, that quinine, in doses of four grains, administered four times during the first day,
will generally make an impression sufficiently powerful to interrupt the paroxysms. When
this is done, it only remains i'or us to overcome the habit which has been impres.sed on the sys-
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 659
tem ; and tliis is much more likely to be accomijlished by the moderate and permanent, tlian by
the powerful and transient effects of the remedy. We would, for example, be much more likely,
after the paroxysms had been interrupted, to prevent the return of a periodical disease by
administering six grains of quinine every day for ten days, tlian by giving sixty grains of it
in two days. Besides, we would avoid the very unpleasant, if not serious consequences, which
sometimes result from the exliibition of very large doses of this medicine.
That an agent which is capable of j^roducing such a powerful impression on the nervous system
may, if injudiciously administered, cause much mischief, must be obvious, even had we not the
jiractical evidence of it afforded by those whose constitutions have been seriously and perma-
nently injured by it. The important discovery that this remedy can be administered with
advantage in doses much larger than were formerly considered safe, has led some into the
dangerous extreme of employing it without either limit or discrimination. There has sprung
up within the last few years a small sect of qiiinine enthusiasts, who, if we may judge from the
indiscriminate and unlimited manner in wliich they administer their favorite remedy, are of
opinion that it is not only a panacea, but that it is a panacea which "can do no wrong." It is
very evident that, if quinine possess not the power to do harm, it must be totally inert, and
can therefore effect no good ; as there is no agent, wliicli exercises any power whatever on tlie
system, whose power may not, under certain circumstances, be productive of mischief. These
gentlemen, however, denominate it a "sedative," and contend that it is only in i(s curative
effects that its power is manifested. This view of the subject jjresents to them a safe and
unlimited field of experiment; and we find, accordingly, that there is scarcely a disease in the
whole catalogue of human sufferings in which this medicine has not already been administered
in indefinite quantities. It matters not what may be the character of the disease, mild or
severe, chronic or acute, the heroic remedy is given in doses of from tliirty to fifty grains, with
fearless empiricism. Tliat this unguarded and indiscriminate employment of so powerful an
agent will be attended witli much mischief, there cannot be a reasonable doubt; but it is, on the
other hand, consoling to reflect that there is in this, as in most other evils, some power of com-
pensation ; and that the vast amount of experience which will be promptly derived from this
extensive empiricism will in some measure atone for its mischief.
7th. My experience does not authorize me to infer that the administration of quinine in
large doses has been the cause of dysentery or other diseases of the bowels. I have, witliin the
last twelve months, witnessed a much lower ratio of severe bowel affections than during those
years when the troops were engaged in active service. This I attribute to the cessation of the
severe exposures, hardshij^s, and privations to which the war subjected them. The cases of
liver and s^jleen disease which I have met with among the troojis, have been remarkably few,
and in none of them could I ascribe its origin to the abuse of quinine. I have, however, met
with several cases of nervous affections, which evidently resulted from the administration of
large quantities of this medicine. I have witnessed four cases in which partial deafness was
experienced for upwards of tliree months; one in which the deafness was permanent ; and one in
which almost total blindness was occasioned for several days, and in which perfect vision was
not restored for some months. These cases were all clearly attributable to the administration
of quinine in large quantities. I have, besides these, met with numerous other cases of nervous
derangement of a clironic character, such as .slight spasmodic affections, frequent attacks of ver-
tigcr, palpitations of the heart, cephalalgias, nervous tremors, &c. , which it appeared to me
could be fairly ascribed to the same cause. In nearly all tliose cases tlie remedy had been ex-
hibited in doses of from x to xxx grains; and in several of them, as higli as 200 grains had been
administered within ten days.
8th. As the climate of Florida is a subject which I intend to discuss at some length, as soon
as I can have access to the medical statistics of the army, I shall merely remark, on tlie present
occasion, that my observation and experience, during five years, liave been such as to give me
a most favorable opinion of its salubritj'. Its general influence is to bestow a milder type upon
660 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
the acute diseases of other climates ; and this is true as regards miasmatic diseases, as well as
all inflammatory affections,
I have the honor to be, very resjiectfullv, your obedient servant,
BERNAKD M. BYRNE,
Assistant Surgeon U. S. A.
Dr. Thos. Lawson,
Surgeon Generctl U. S. A., Washington.
REPORT OF ASSISTANT SURGEON (SURGEON) CIIAliLES McCORJIICK.
"As the jjropriety of the administration of c^uinine in very large doses has become a mooted
question throughout the medical world, and as various members of the medical corps of the
army have had more or less experience in this particular, you are hereby directed to furnish
replies to the following interrogatories:
"1st. What is the extent of your experience in tliis respect?"
Ans. I liave used the sulphate of quinine in large doses — say, from four to thirty grains and
upwards — constantly, about four years.
" 2d. "Was it always the suli)hate of quinine that you have prescribed? If so, was it pure?"
Ans. I liave always used the sulphate of quinine, simply diffused in water as a vehicle. All
I have used has been pure.
"3d. From what source has your quinine been obtained?"
Ans. From American, French, and German manufacturers; such, for instance, as Wetherill,
Eosengarten & Denis, and Farr (American), Pelletier, Caventou, and Delondre (French).
"4th. In how large doses have you administered it, both as regards the extreme and the
average quantity?"
Ans. In doses varying from one-sixth of a grain to eighty grains. The average dose I
employ in intermittent fevers is ten grains just after, and ten grains tliree or four hours before,
the period for the paroxysm. In remittent and continued fevers, thirty grains is the average
dose in which I administer it.
"5th. State the specific diseases in which you have employed it, with all the necessary details,
and especially as regards the Ionic state of the system; and whether injurious effects, or at least
unpleasant symptoms, did not less frequently supervene in the adynamic state than when the
powers of life were in an exalted condition?"
Ans. I have employed the sulphate of quinine in the treatment of all kinds of fever — inter-
mittent, remittent, and continued; in acute and chronic rheumatism, neuralgia, and tetanus;
with great benefit in the early stages of dysentery, diarrhoea, and cholera morbus, in combina-
tion with opium. I have given it under all circumstances, in the prodromic, the cold, hot, and
sweating stages of fever, and during the intermissions and remissions, in simple uncomplicated
fever, and in fevers complicated with various local inflammations of the head, chest, and
abdomen ; and never have witnessed any injurious effects or unpleasant symptoms, when it was
given in large doses.
"6th. Give your opinion as to the modus operandi of this therapeutic agent; whethei', for
instance, you regard it as a tonic, a sedative, or a stimulant."
Ans. I regard it as a sedative.
" 7th. Since the practical introduction of quinine in large doses, the statistics of this Bureau
exhibit a much higher ratio of diseases of the bowels — as, for instance, diarrhoiaand dysentery;
and, also, a much higher average of mortality from the same diseases. It remains, therefore,
to be determined, how far this result is due to this cause, or the operation of other agents."
Ans. In replying to this interrogatory, I would suggest that tlie fact it refers to may be traced
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 661
to some other cause ; as, for instance, by a strict examination of the reports of sick, in your office,
it may be found tliat tlie reports containing the greatest number of such cases have been made
by medical officers who have used this remedy only after the old method, and have not given it
in the stage of febrile reaction, with a view to arrest the disease. However this may be, I am
fully satisfied, from long and impartial use of the sulphate of quinine in my own practice, that
it has been otherwise; and since using it in large doses, and freely, I have had fewer diseases of
the bowels supervening and ensuing on fever; and that, under many circumstances, these very
aflections are relieved by the timely administration of this remedy. A remarkable case of this
nature (dysentery relieved by this remedy) I reported to you in my quarterly report for the
quarter ending 30th September, 1841. Quinine possesses the power to arrest the progress of
fever, and, as a necessary consequence, prevents the local disorders that fever, when suffered to
run its course, almost always induces.
"8th. What liave been your observation and experience in regard to the influence of the
climate of Florida; the acute diseases incident thereto; or the use of quinine in inducing acute
and chronic aflections of the liver and spleen?"
Ans. The climate of Florida, and the acute diseases incident thereto, have both a decided
tendency to induce acute and chronic affections of the spleen, and frequently of the liver; but
the former are much more common. In my opinion, the use of quinine, so far from being con-
cerned in causing these aflections, is almost the only remedy we possess capable of counteract-
ing this tendency of the climate and its acute diseases ; and in removing these affections, it is
an invaluable remedy, esjjecially in enlargement of the spleen, which it often reduces as if by
magic.
"9th. State whatever else you may deem appropriate to the subject."
Ans. In replying to this, I have to say that, notwithstanding the propriety of administering
the sulphate of quinine in very large doses is a mooted question throughout the medical world,
it is far less a novelty in medicine than its exhibition during the exacerbations of intermittent,
remittent, and continued forms of fever ; or, in other words, when the powers of life are in an
exalted condition. We may prescribe any number of grains at a dose, and yet regard the
remedy as a tonic; but, surely, no person would venture to administer it to a patient at the
time laboring under high febrile excitement, so long as he regarded the remedy as belonging
to the class of excitants. An extensive experience in practice of nearly four years has satisfied
me, beyond a possibility of doubt, that it may not only be advantageously given in very large
doses, but also (and what I regard as a far more important fact) that it can be given thus witli-
out fear of any iujurious e0"ects or unpleasant symptoms, in any state of the system whatever,
even during the highest febrile excitement. This single fact (for fact it is) is conclusive evidence
that this medicine cannot be regarded as belonging to the class of excitants, since they are
altogether inadmissible ichen thejMiuers of life are in an exalted condition.
The same experience has taught me that it has no power to augment or increase inflamma-
tion, or retard its cure ; and, again, that it may, with safety, be given in large doses, at all
times, and under all circnmslanccs ; and that it possesses the potcer to arrest fever ; and, as a con-
sequence, when administered in the early stage, to obviate and prevent the congestions and in-
flammations that occur during the progress of fever.
Tliat these statements are facts, any person can satisfy himself by administering this remedy
in any number of cases where tlie powers of life are in an exalted comlition, in large doses,
and closely watching its efiects. Let it, then, be given thus, in any inflammatory disease
whatever, at all times, and imder all circumstances; and it will not be foimd to augment or in-
crease local inflammations, but, on the contrary, to accelerate their cure. Given in large
doses, boldly and freely, during the high febrile excitement of idiopathic and arthritic fevers,
it will be found to lessen the force of the pulse, diminish the heat and dryness of skin, and
restlessness, and to throw out on the surface a general warm and free perspiration ; in short, in
a few hours (generally from one to three or four) to cut short the paroxysms and arrest the
662 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
furtiier progress of fever ; generally acting sensibly on the skin, occasionally on the secretions
from the bowels, producing freealvine dejections; and, again, on the kidneys and bladder, in a
free secretion and discharge of urine; and sometimes, without any other sensible eifect, the
fever is seen to subside under the influence of this potent drug. The quantity necessary to
produce these effects may vary in dift'erent cases; generally a dose of thirty grains will be suffi-
cient. Where venesection is required, let the sulphate be given immediately after.
Stimulants ])ossess the power of exciting, and sedatives that of diminishing the animal ener-
gies. Tonics are classed as permanent stimuli. If, then, a remedy may not only be safely,
but advantageously administered to patients laboring under high fever, acute rheumatism, and
fevers with various local inflammations, it surely must be admitted that it does not possess the
power of exciting the animal energies, and is not, therefore, a stimulant or tonic; for, as pre-
viously stated, such remedies are altogether inadmissible when the powers of life are in an
exalted condition ; and as, on the other hand, it is found to lessen the force of the pulse, heat,
and dryness of the skin, to allay restlessness, and to throw out on the surface a general warm
and free perspiration, if given at a time when the powers of life are in an exalted condition, its
action more closely resembles that ascribed to the class of antiphlogistics. But it j^ossesses
other powers than those of an antiphlogistic, and to these its apparent action, as such, is to be
attributed. When given in large doses, I have seen it iillay pain as speedily as opium; and it
often acts, not only as an anodyne, but as a soporific. In si)asmodic asthma, I have seen it
afford relief frequently. In one case of traumatic tetanus, I gave it to allay spasmodic action,
with more eftect than opium. And in a case of agonizing pain, brought on by the crown of a
large jaw-tooth having broken off in a violent effort to extract it, this remedy gave immediate
relief, when a large dose of tincture of opium had failed. Here, then, are further properties I
have found tliis remedy to possess, more analogous to the effects of opium (which is admitted
to be a sedative) than any other remedy we have ; but it differs from opium in the greater per-
manence of its effects, and in not possessing anj' narcotic ^u'opcrties ; and, consequently, it may
be given in unlimited doses. I have given three-quarters of an ounce (360 grains) to a patient
in the space of twelve hours, with the most beneficial result. Like opium, too, its action is
almost immediate upon the brain and nerves. In two or three hours after a large dose, it al-
most invariably induces a sense of fullness in the head, stricture across the forehead, slight
pain, ringing and buzzing in the ears, and partial temporary deafness; and a peculiar muscular
debility frequently follows its administration.
I have found opium and quinine to have a similar action when given in congestive fever, par-
ticularly in the cold stage. They are the remedies I especially rely on in this disease, Like
quinine, opium, when given in a full dose, seldom fails to arrest the paroxysm of an inter-
mittent, (this I noticed in a report made to you in 1839,) or to moderate the fever when given
in the hot stage. Drs. Lind, Trotter, and others, speak of the beneficial eflects of opium, when
given in the hot stage, of allaying fever. Like opium, too, the action of quinine is highly
favored by blood-letting, when required. In short, it jtossesses the jiower, in large doses, of
diminishing tiie animal energies, and is, consequently, a sedative.
These are essentially the same facts stated in my report to you in September or October, 1841.
To favor the view I have taken of this remedy, I will add the following extracts from Pro-
fessor Liebig's Animal Chemistry:
" 88. With respect to the action of the other nitrogenized vegetable principles, such as qui-
nine, or the alkaloids of opium, &c., which manifests itself, not in the processes of secretion,
but in phenomena of another kind, physiologists and jjathologists entertain no doubt that it is
exerted chiefly on the brain and nerves. This action is commonly said to be dynamic — that is,
it accelerates, or retards, or alters, in some way, the phenomena of motion in animal life. If
we reflect that this action is exerted by substances which are material, tangible, and pondera-
ble; that they disappear in the organism ; that a double dose acts more powerfully than a single
one; that, after a time, a fresh dose must be given, if we wish to produce the action a second
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. G63
time; all these considerations, viewed chemically, permit onh' one form of explanation — the sup-
position, namely, that these compounds, by means of their elements, take a share in the form-
ation of new, or the transformation of existing train and nervous matter.
"However strange the idea may at first sight appear, that the alkaloids of opium or of cinchona
bark, the elements of codeine, morphine, quinine, &c. , maybe converted into constituents of brain
and nervous matter, into organs of vital energy, from which the organic motions of the body
derive their origin — that these substances form a constituent of that matter, by the removal of
which the seat of intellectual life, of sensation, and of consciousness, is annihilated; it is never-
theless certain that all these forms of power and activity are most closely dependent, not only
on the existence, but also on a certain quality of the substance of the brain, spinal marrow,
and nerves ; insomuch that all the manifestations of the life or vital energy of these modifica-
tions of nervous matter, which are recognized as the phenomena of motion, sensation, or feel-
ing, assume another form as soon as their composition is altered. The animal organism has
produced the brain and nerves out of compounds furnished to it by vegetables ; it is the con-
stituents of the food of the animal, which, in consequence of a series of changes, have as-
sumed the properties and the structure which we find in the brain and nerves."
"89. If it must be admitted, as an undeniable truth, that the substance of the brain and
nerves is produced from the elements of vegetable albumen, fibrine, and caseine, either alone
or with the aid of the elements of non-azotized food, as the fat formed from the latter, there is
nothing absurd in the opinion that other constituents of vegetables, intermediate in composi-
tion between the fats and the compounds of proteine, may be applied in the organism to the
same purpose."
"91. Brain and nervous matter is, at all events, formed in a manner similar to that in which
bile is produced — either by the separation of a highly nitrogenized compound from the elements
of blood, or by the combination of a nitrogenized product of the vital process with an on-
azotized compound, probably a fatty body. All that has been said in the preceding pages on
the various possible ways by which the bile might be supposed to be formed — all the conclu-
sions which we attained in regard to the co-operation of azotized and non-azotized elements of
food, may be applied with equal justice and equal probability to the formation and production
of the nervous substance.
"We must not forget that, in whatever light we may view the vital operations, the production
of nervous matter from blood presupposes a change in the composition and qualities of the con-
stituents of blood. That such a change occurs, is as certain as that the existence of the nervous
matter cannot be denied. In this sense, we must assume that, from a compound of proteine
may be formed a first, second, third, &c. product before a certain number of elements can become
constituents of the nervous matter; and it must be considered as quite certain that a product of
the vital process in a plant introduced into the blood, will, if its comjiosition be adapted to the
purpose, supply the place of the first, second, or third product of the alteration of the compound
of proteine. Indeed, it cannot be considered merely accidental that the composition of the most
active remedies — namely, the vegetable alkaloid.s — cannot be shown to be related to that of any
constituent of the body, except only the substance of the nerves and brain. All of these con-
tain a certain quantity of nitrogen ; and, in regard to the composition, they are intermediate
between the compounds of proteine and the fats."
"92. In contradistinction to the chemical character, we find that the substance of the brain
exhibits the characters of an acid. It contains far more oxygen than the organic bases or alka-
loids. We observe that quinine, and cinchonine, morphia, codeine, strychnia, and brucia, which
are respectively so nearly alike in composition, if they Jo not produce absolutely the same efi"ect,
yet resemble each other in their action more than those which difl'er more widely in composition.
We find that their energy of action diminishes as the amount of oxygen they contain increases,
(as in the case of narcotine ;) and that, strictly s](eaking, no one of them can be entirely replaced
by another. There cannot be a more decisive proof of the nature of their action than this last
664 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
i'act; it must stand in the closest relation to their composition. If these compounds, in point
of fact, are capable of taking a share in the formation or in the alteration of the qiialities of
brain and nervous matter, their action on the healthy as well as diseased organism admits of
a suriirisingly simple exjjlanation. If we are not tempted to deny that the chiel' constituent of
soup may be applied to a purpose corresponding to its composition in the human body, or tliat
the organic constituent of bones may be so employed in the body of the dog, altliongli that sub-
stance (gelatine in both cases) is absolutely incapable of yielding blood; ii', therefore, nitro-
genized compounds, totally different from the compounds of proteine, may be employed for
])urposes corresponding to their composition, we may thence conclude that a product of vegetable
life, also different from proteine, but similar to a constituent of the animal body, may be em-
ployed by the organism in the same way, and for the same purpose, as the natural jjroduct
originally formed by the vital energy of the animal organs — and that, indeed, from a vegetable
substance." **********
" 94. Thus, as we may say, in a certain sense, of caffeine and tlieine, and asparagine, &c., as
well as of the non-azotized elements of food, that they are food for the liver — since they contain
the elements, by the presence of which that organ is enabled to perform its functions; so we may
consider these nitrogenized compounds, so remarkable for their action on tlie brain and on the
substance of the organs of motion, as elements of food for the organs as yet unknown, which
are destined for the metamorphosis of the constituents of the blood into nervous substance and
brain. Such organs there must bo in the animal body; and if, in the diseased state, an abnor-
mal process of production or transformation of the constituents of cerebral and nervous matter
has been established ; if, in the organs intended for this purpose, the power of forming that
matter out of the constituents of blood, or the power of resisting an abnormal degree of activity
in its decomposition or transformation has been diminished, then, in a chemical sense, there is
no objection to the opinion that substances of a composition analogous to that of nervous and
cerebral matter, and consequently adapted to form that matter, may be employed instead of the
substances produced from the l)lood, either to furnish the necessary resistance or to restore the
normal condition."
It would hence appear, that the sulphate of quinine, in its medical virtues and chemical
composition, is very analogous to morphia; that, like ojiium, too, along witli its sedative, it
possesses stimulating properties, exciting the motion of tlie blood — as all will admit who have
used it as a stimulant — (that is, tonic, permanent stimulus,) increasing the frequency of the
pulse, although, at the same time, diminishing its force.
Now, as regards its exhibition in the tonic and atonic states of the system, it has been shown
that it may be safely given in the former, although heretofore regarded as at variance with
sound principles of practice. The use of both opium and quinine has been sanctioned by the
profession at large in the low forms of fever ; and they have been most liberally used in the
atonic states of the system, when the powers of life were in a depressed condition.
This apparent inconsistency of giving these remedies in such oj'posite conditions of the
system, is satisfactorily explained when we recollect that, as sedatives, they both act directly on
the nervous power, diminishing the sensibility, irritability, and mobility of the system ; thus
allaying pain, inordinate action, and restlessness. Hence they may be used in a great variety
of diseases. A remedy possessing the power of diminishing sensibility and allaying inordinate
action when given in large doses, may yet (as opium) act as a stimulant in small and fre-
quently repeated doses ; in the former case, highly beneficial when the powers of life are in an
exalted condition ; in the latter, proving useful to sustain the system and obtund sensibility.
But whatever may be its action, I can safely aver that I never have seen any injurious effects
or unpleasant symptoms supervene in any stale of the system; and I have given it in eveiy
possible condition, and have so constantly witnessed such surprising remedial effects ibllow its
exhibition, as to justify me in regarding the sulphate of quinine almost as an antidote to the
cause originating fever; and, as with antidotes, the amount required will be in exact ratio to
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 665
the quantity of poison (in this case malaria) imbibed. At the " Hopital des En/ans," at Paris,
M. Guersant employed the sulphate of quinine, after amputating both lower extremities, for
tlie traumatic fever, and with eftect. — {London Lancet, from Gazette des Hopitaux, March 14;
Pliiladelphia Medical Examiner, August 5th, 1843.) I have myself seen it allay febrile action
in pneumonia, &c.
Professor Liebig says: "93. * * * '^ It is singular that we find medicinal agencies all
dependent on certain matters, which differ in composition; and if, by the introduction of a sub-
stance, certain abnormal conditions are rendered normal, it will be impossible to reject the opinion
that tliis iilienomenon depends on a change in the constituents of the diseased organism ; a change
in which tlie elements of the remedy take a share — a share similar to that which the vegetable
elements of the food have taken in the formation of fat, of membranes, of the saliva, of the
seminal fluid," &c., &c. How beautifully all this applies to the action of quinine in fever!
Now, the cause of fever acting on the human organization, may cause therein the change,
waste, or transformation of some element, which is supplied in the quinine when given. And
as the cause of fever and the quinine both act immediately upon the nervous system, it must be
in that part of the organization we are to search for the explanation of fever. And, in truth,
it does seem to consist in some modification of the nervous system, caused by the malaria
creating a change of function or structure, or preternatural waste therein, as is seen to occur in
otlier tissues during the progress of fever, and which are only remedied by the exhibition of
articles containing the appropriate elements for the formation of such tissues. For instance: as
gelatine in soup is supjjosed to act, in convalescence, in restoring the waste in cellular tissue,
cartilage, &c.; so quinine may be supposed to act as food, supplying waste or change in organ-
ism produced by fever in the nervous tissue.
I have suggested that it is in this tissue we are to look for and find the proximate cause of
fever, inasmuch as the modus oj^erandi of the great febrifuge is direct on the brain and nerves ;
and inasmuch as in virtue of its composition it may be termed food for the brain and nerves, as
caffeine, and theine, and asparagine are so called for the liver ; and further, as the action of the
malaria, or rather of both koino and idio-miasmata is direct upon the brain and nerves. All,
then, that has been said in relation to the sulphate of quinine would seem to confirm this
opinion; and an examination of the nature of fever will, I think, have a like tendency.
"That derangement of the nervous system constitutes the initial link in the chain of morbid
actions which occur in the development of fever, cannot be doubted. The mental and muscular
languor, rigors, pains in the back, limbs, and joints, irritability and fickleness of temper,
morbid sensibility to low temperature, confusion and dullness of the intellectual powers, which
so universally usher in febrile diseases, afford unequivocal evidence of pervading derangement
of the nervous system." Or, in other words, they indicate lesion of the function of inner-
vation. Now, as this function (it is admitted) presides over those of calorification, secretion,
circulation, and absorption, we cannot conceive it to suffer disorder or derangement, without the
others being immediately, and invariably, more or less imi)licated ; and such is the fact, for we
constantly see in fever alteration of the animal temperature, and general disorder of the
functions. Again, as long as this function (innervation) is carried on in a healthy manner, or
preserves its integrity, those dependent on it, or over which it presides, will also maintain
theirs. This is a state of health.
Fear, grief, and joy — in short, all the passions act by the impression they make upon the brain
and nerves ; and each has been known to cause immediate death. The cause of fever has also been
known, in the severe congestive forms, to deprive the patient instantl}' of all sensation and
motion, and, at times, to cause immediate and almost instantaneous death. How can any other
view of the pathology of fever than the nervous explain such phenomena? Surely death in such
cases could not have been the result of inflammation, as this occupies time to run its course 1
The rush of blood to the cheeks, as seen in blushing; the erection of the penis; and the deter-
minations of blood to the head, in anger, are examples of congestions occurring suddenly, and
S, 9(> 84
666 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
almost instantly, from the nervous influence ; and no appearance in the early stage of fever is
more universal than these irregular distributions of the blood, evidently arising from the same
cause — ^nervous influence.
Symptomatic fevor, or fever dei>endent on local inflammation, presents the same phenomena
as idiopathic; and, as "ubi irritatio, ihi fluxus," is a maxim, it will be admitted that even in
inflammation the nerves are first implicated, and the action of the vascular system is secondary.
Certainly, if the sensibility and irritability of the part be not altered, there will be no inflam-
mation; and they exist only where the brain and nerves are present. But in inflammation, as
in fever, the function of the vascular system is deranged, and, consequently, that of innerva-
tion, primarily, as it presides over the other.
The cause of fever acts through the impression made upon the organs concerned in innerva-
tion — probably by the malaria being taken into the current of the circulation in the lungs.
However this may be, it is evident its first effects are manifested in the nervous system, and it
produces impressions on this system, more or less lasting, and more or less injurious, according
to its amount and concentration — as a poison acts, precisely ; and as with a poison (corrosive sub-
limate, for instance) its injurious effects cease with the antidote, although, should the poison have
excited inflammation previous to the exliibition of the antidote, this latter will have no effect in
curing the inflammation, only acting upon the poison and arresting its effects ; leaving what-
ever inflammation may have been excited up to the time of its action. But, as suggested, in
all inflammation wliatever, the function of innervation is more or less implicated ; and, conse-
quently, quinine, opium, and all sedative remedies, have a direct tendency to favor its cure; at
least, such I have found to be the fact. Fever, in most cases, yields, only after the lapse of a
very considerable time, to antiphlogistic remedies; but when to these are added quinine, opium,
and other sedative remedies, it yields readily (generally in a few hours) in nearly all cases —
certainly in all cases I have seen — when given in the early stages.
In idiopathic fever there is great proneness to congestions and inflammations, as long as
the fever is suffered to run its course ; and when these occur, they greatly modify it. Now, cases
of traumatic fever, pneumonia, &c., differ from idiopathic fever; and, although presenting the
same great general phenomena, are yet difterent in their condition and course. In idiopathic
fever, the malaria induces lesion in the function of innervation ; in pneumonia and traumatic
fever, the organic lesion is present from the commencement of the general phenomena; in other
words, the difference between idiopathic and symptomatic fever is, that in tlie former the cause
acts on the general nervous system, (the cerebro-spinal and ganglionic departments,) and all the
inflammations that occur are predominantly modified by the peculiar impression made on this
system — cerebro-spinal, or ganglionic ; and in the latter, the cause acts locally on the sensibility or
irritability of the part — thus causing local inflammation, and inducing a state most closely re-
sembling the former, by the local impression being reflected upon the general system, yet differ-
ing in this: that in the former, the nervous, and in the latter, the inflammatory condition pre-
dominates ; and hence it is, that idiopathic epidemic fevers are found one year to be congestive, and
another inflammatory, according as the function of innervation is more or less deeply implicated ;
and such, in a great measure, is the cause of the difference observed in the north and tlie south.
The nervous system, in the latter, suffers most; and we know that in those cases inducing sudden
death this same function (innervation) is most deeply implicated ; and that in synocha the vas-
cular is predominantly deranged ; and in typhus, the nervous. In all, lesion of innervation
is the primary condition, icithout which fever cannot exist. "It is in the regular relation of these
two great systems (nervous and vascular) and of their functions that health and life consist.
It is from derangement of their harmony that disease and death result." (Beclarcl.)
The result, then, may be expressed thus: that, inasmuch as the functions of calorification, se-
cretion, circulation, and absorption, are all under the influence and control of the function of in-
nervation, (or, in other words, under the control of the brain and nerves,) it follows, that when dis-
order exists in this last function, the others become more or less implicated, in direct ratio with
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 667
such disorder. As, also, in the chain of sequences constituting fever, all these functions are prom-
inently and constantly disordered ; as the primary link is lesion of function in the nervous system ;
as all the other plienomena observed in fever are subsequent to this ; as the effects of malaria are
first manifested on the nervous system, it would seem that tlie true seat of the proximate cause
of fever is in this system. And when we recollect, and add to this, that the action of quinine is
admitted to be direct upon the brain and nerves; that it is a sedative, possessing the power to
cut short the paroxysm, and arrest the farther progress of the fever, the conclusion is inevita-
ble, that the proximate cause of fever consists in some modification of the brain and nerves, and
that eitlier the cerebro-spinal or ganglionic divisions may suffer most.
Xow, dissections fail to trace the peculiar condition of the brain in epilepsy, &c. ; yet no one
doubts its nervous origin. The diflSculty and impossibility of demonstrating the peculiar con-
dition of the brain in those who die of nervous diseases, with what has been said in reference to
fever, explains the great difliculty, and, taken together, may probably lift the veil that has en-
veloped the subject of fever. There is one thing certain : all the dissections that have been
made of those who have died of fever, have only served to make us acquainted with the results —
pathological phenomena — that occur during the course of fever, but have not revealed the
slightest glimjise of its intimate nature, or primary and essential cause.
But, let all this be as it may: since I liave adoj^ted my practice to such view of fever, endeav-
oring not only to counteract tlie morbid state of the vascular system by antiphlogistics, huf as
thejirst indication to remedy that of the nervous system also, I have not had a single opportunitv
to make a post-mortem examination of tlie body of a single fever patient; for in my practice
(and it has been pretty extensive — not confined to the sick of tlie army alone) not one case lias
proved fatal. I liave tried all modes of practice, and neither mercury nor the bleeding and re-
frigerant plan will arrest a single severe case. The following plan has proved successful in all
subjects, from infants to women during the last month of pregnancy, in Florida and Arkansas,
and some few cases in Maryland — in the field and in garrison :
In treating fever, as well as inflammation, our success will be infinitely greatest when proper
attention is paid to the two great systems implicated, and remedies appropriate to the peculiar
state and condition of each system are exhibited. It has been seen that these two great systems
are the nervous and the vascular. In the former, derangement and excitement would seem to
show the action of the cause to be that of a morbid irritant ; it may be inferred, hence, as the
sensibility and irritability are increased to a great degree, t!ie action of remedies possessing the
powers of diminishing and allaying them (viz: sedatives) should be first invoked, to quiet and
regulate the nervous system ; and with a view to counteract and restore the condition of the
vascular system, general and local bleeding, cathartics, and refrigerants may be necessary.
Now it may be said, where, in congestive fever, the patient is in a state of insensibility and im-
mobility, that the cause of the fever has not acted as an irritant, but that the impression it has
made is one of sedation (for we see the animal energies are diminished). Tliat this is not the
case, is seen in the fact that sedatives, such as opium, camphor, and quinine, all in large doses,
are the most certain remedies we can employ to restore reaction. It is true, a patient in such a
state of fever bears often a strong resemblance to a person laboring under the eflects of an overdose
of opium ; but that the two states or conditions are totally difierent, must be admitted, from
the evidence of the effects of the remedy. In the latter case, death would inevitably result from
a full large dose of opium ; in the former, it is the surest means of restoring the patient to
health. Now, sedatives, as cathartics, &c., do not all possess exactly the same virtues, or act in
precisely the same manner. The sulphate of quinine is the sedative I employ in fever; as be-
fore stated, it has the advantage of opium, in not possessing narcotic properties, and can, there-
fore, be safely given to whatever extent may be necessary.
The first indication in the treatment is to cut short the paroxysm, and arrest thefurtner pro-
gress of the fever ; and, with this view, from twenty to thirty grains of the sulphate of quinine is
the remedy I administer first. As has been stated, blood-letting favors the action of the
668 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
quinine, whenever it is required; and this is tlic only condition I regard previous to the oxlii-
hition of the remedy. Wlienever violent local determinations are present, (especially of the
head,) bleed to the relief of tlie symptoms, and immediately give the quinine, simply diffused in
half a wine-glass lull of mid water. Where there is much nausea and vomiting, combine it
with from thirty to sixty drops of laudanum. If the remedy cannot be retained on the stomach,
it must be given, in two or tliree times the (|uantity, by the rectum. I have given from forty to
sixty and eighty grains in tliis way, dissolved in as little water as possible, by means of sul-
phuric acid, and mixed witli a solution of starcli, not to exceed two or three ounces. As this is
the remedy to be relied on to arrest tlie fever, it must be administered either by the stomach,
skin, or rectum. Should diarrhrea or dysentery be present, give, with the quinine, forly or
sixty drops of laudanum, or from ten to fifteen grains of Dover's powder. Should it be other-
wise, any laxative will answer, as castor-oil, calcined magnesia, or this latter combined with
cream of tartar, or Epsom salts, will, in mild cases of fever, be found sufficient ; but in all severe
forms, I employ one or two free mercurial cathartics in the commencement of the disease, and,
if necessary, follow up their use with gamboge, and even croton-oil, according to the effect de-
sired, and the difficulty of producing it. For instance: in a severe case of congestive fever, I
have only succeeded in inducing one or two alvine evacuations after having given, in a few
hours, several twenty-grain doses of calomel, fifteen grains of gamboge, and sixteen drops of
good croton-oil, (in addition to eight drops of croton-oil I had regarded as bad; because, when
given to this same patient in a dose of four drojjs, and repeated once, it had fJailed.) After all
these had acted on the bowels, the patient recovered her senses; and, the day following, when
the function of the brain was free, a single dose of castor-oil operated freely three or four times.
The indications are, then, 1st. To moderate the febrile reaction ; 2d. To arrest the fever ; and
3d. To obviate and remedy the various local congestions and inflammations that occur. To ful-
fil the first, bleeding, refrigerants, and laxatives are required; for the second, quinine and
opium; and the third, local bleeding and counter-irritants. But, in the great majority of cases,
quinine, with mild laxatives and cooling drinks, will be all-sufiicient.
In the congestive form, nothing is to be depended on but opium, camphor, and quinine, to in-
duce reaction; and the latter, in full doses, often repeated, can alone be trusted to prevent the
recurrence of fever. Give mercurials and brisk cathartics to move the bowels, if necessary.
Give, during the cold stage, a table-spoonful of camphor-mixture, with a few drops of lauda-
num ; or give full doses of opium, and follow with camphor-mixture, and, at the same time,
quinine in large doses — say from twenty to eighty grains, and repeat if necessary. The
quantity it will require cannot be told. Give it, during the paroxysm, at least in twenty-grain
doses every hour until the fever subsides. Blisters may be applied during the cold stage ; but
they rarely do good until reaction is established, when they make their full impression, and
serve to keep up irritation of the extremities, and thus have a tendency to equalize the circu-
lation.
The quinine at times appears to fail in arresting the paroxysm of fever. In many cases, after
two ten-grain doses had been given, the fever appeared to have maintained its course; and I
should have repeated it until the (ever stopped, only the remedy was very scarce. I therefore,
in all such cases, withheld the third dose — after having given ten grains at the end of a parox-
ysm, and ten grains three or four hours before — and in a great majority of cases no more was
required. This should be remembered, as it has a great tendency to prevent any person, who
is not fully aware of it, from coming to a correct conclusion in regard to the action of the sul-
phate of quinine; but let another dose, and another, be given, if any doubt exist.
Many intermittents recur every seventh, fourteenth, twenty-first, and twenty-eighth day, with
as much regularity as a quotidian or tertian, and sometimes assume the former, and at others
the latter type. They should be anticipated for one or two periods of recurrence by the sul-
phate of quinine — ten grains the night before, and ten grains the morning of the expected
attack. If costiveness prevails, give laxatives; if diarrhoea or dysentery, opium is the remedy.
OF QUININE IX LARGE DOSES. 669
Emetics are sometimes highly useful in the cases of recurring intermittents previous to the
exhibition of the quinine, and should he tried.
During the recent expedition to the prairies, under Captain Steen, the treatment I pursued
was very simjjle and successful in every case. It was simjjly to administer ten grains of the
sulphate at hed-time, to be followed by a like quantity the ensuing morning ; if diarrhoea or
dysentery existed, laudanum was combined with each dose ; if otherwise, castor-oil or rhubarb
and aloes were the only means made use of. The patient generally rode one or two days in the
wagons, but in most cases mounted his liorse the second day ; and it but seldom happened that
any had to ride in the wagon over two days, and in only two or three cases had the remedy to
be repeated.
In my report, I stated six sick men had been sent hack to Fort Gibson. This occurred from
want of a wagon for the sick. It is next to impossible for a man laboring under high febrile
excitement to ride on horseback, and it must certainly prove injurious. They were, there-
fore, sent back. All recovered. As soon as I had room in the wagons for a man to lie on the
rough load, even, there was no difficulty. I had made application to the commanding officer
for a wagon for the sick, but he declined sending one.
I have the honor to be, very resjiectfully, your obedient servant,
CHAELEs Mccormick,
Assistant Surgeon U. S. Army.
Thomas Lawson, M. D.,
Surgeon General U. S. A., Washington, D. C.
EEPORT OF ASSISTANT SURGEON JOSEPH H. BAILEY.
I have been tolerably familiar with the use of quinine for the last eighteen years. At first,
the exorbitant price of the remedy, together with the cautions promulgated relative to its use,
prevented myself, as well as many others, from prescribing it freely; gradually the fears of its
injurious eiiects wore off, and, the price becoming reduced, the more liberal use became common.
Up to the commencement of the year 1835, I had witnessed its effects only in diseases of a
northern climate; since then, only in the southern and southwestern part of the United States,
where I have administered it in many thousand cases.
The sulphate is the only preparation of quinine with which I have had any experience ; of
this, there has been but slight ditference in the several parcels — all having been pure, or nearly
so; which conclusion I formed from its appearance, weight, taste, effects, and a few of the
more common tests.
My sujiplies during the last eight years have been obtained mostly from the army medical
purveyor in New York, and small parcels from western merchants who purchased in New York,
New Orleans, and St. Louis. I have administered it in doses from \ to 60 grains, and all in-
termediate quantities. The ordinary dose has been from 2 to 5 grains. In small or large
quantities, I consider it a powerful tonic. But in miasmatic fevers, I think its j^rincipal virtues
arise from its qualities as an antidote, neutralizing miasmatic poison. In large doses of 15, 20,
and 30 grains, or more, in congestion or collapse, it is stimulant and tonic, supporting the sink-
ing powers of life in a remarkable degree. In inflammatory diseases, either in large or small
doses, it will aggravate the symj^toms. In fevers, where the system has been reduced by the
debilitating effects of long-continued solar heat, chronic disease, active treatment, or any other
cause, it will prove sedative; but I have not witnessed this effect, except where other appro-
priate stimulants and tonics would have produced similar results.
In the spring and early part of the summer, quinine is usually not admissible, except after
reducing treatment, or when previous disease or other cause has lessened the vital powers; but
670 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
in autumn, tlie relaxing effects of the season having already lessened the powers of the system,
it may often be administered with benefit during the excitement of fever, even witliout previous
evacuating treatment. Local congestions and inflammations may be treated 8ubse(|ueutly.
In active inflammatory diseases, (pneumonia, pleuritis, &c.,) any persons may soon satisfy
themselves of the injurious efifects of quinine. But there are local inflammatory aifections of an
intermittent character, the evidence of their existence continuing only during the excitement of
a paroxysm of i'ever, and disappearing with the establishment of the sweating stage. During
and after cold fall rains, pleurisy of this sort is not unfrequent in the southwestern country,
and is often cured, with its accompanying paroxysmal fever, by administering quinine.
Throughout the whole southwestern country, dysentery and diarrhoea are common diseases, and
were so before the use of quinine became general. Is it not probable that examinations of the
abdominal viscera have been more carefully made of late, the attention of the medical de-
partment of the army having been called particularly to that subject by a circular from the
Surgeon General's office? And may not this measurably account ibr the increase of disease of
the intestinal canal reported to your department? I cannot, however, doubt the indiscrimi-
nate use of quinine, especially in large doses, not preceded by evacuating treatment, must in-
crease, if not produce, visceral obstructions, and may account for many lesions of the intestinal
canal of those who have died of southern fevers.
The liver being supplied with blood in a devious way, seems to be placed mostly beyond the
reach of vascular disturbances, and, as might reasonably be supposed, will usually be found free
from disease in southern fevers, except where it has been goaded with mercury.
The spleen being a highly vascular organ, suffers, as might be sujjposed, more than any other
in paroxysmal fever. Engorgement and enlargement of the spleen is very common, and is usually
connected with a debilitated state of the system, not inappropriately named splenic cachexia;
and, being a disease of debility, the tonic quinine naturally presents itself as a remedy. Its
steady use, with firm pressure over the splenic region, combined with general invigorating
treatment, will rarely fail to effect a cure of chronic enlargement of the spleen. I would by no
means recommend quinine in acute splenitis, should it ever be found to exist.
Many hundred cases of autumnal intermittents have been treated by me in the following
manner, with invariable success: I prescribe an emetic of ipecac and antimony, and, during the
following intermission, sixteen grains of quinine, in doses of four grains, at short intervals.
Any existing derangement of the bowels may be subsequently attended to. In the remittent
or continued form of fever, venesection is frequently practised with great benefit ; after which,
a gentle emetic will usually produce an intermission or remission, when I administer from six-
teen to twenty grains of quinine, either at once or in divided doses, as I may have reason to ex-
pect the intermission will be of shorter or longer duration ; always 2:)referring the administra-
tion of this, and all other powerful remedies, in moderate doses, unless the urgency of the case
demand a different course. In the congestive form of fever, when the skin is cold, the pulse
nearly or quite imperceptible at the wrist, and the powers of life rapidly declining, I adminis-
ter from thirty to sixty grains at once ; and should no effect be produced, repeat the dose at the
expiration of two hours. Before the use of quinine in large doses was practised in congestive
fever (general congestion), the disease was almost always fatal. Now we may, with much cer-
tainty, calculate on a favorable result. Quinine cannot be said to act as a sedative in congestive
disease, when a large dose of sedative medicine might be calculated to produce a fatal result.
There is a vast difi'erence between two forms of disease called congestive fever in tlie southern
and southwestern country. A brief description of each will explain the difference of symjitoms,
treatment, and result of these diseases, though unlike, named the same: One form of real con-
gestive disease, or congestive fever, as I have seen it, is intermittent — the first, second, and fre-
quently the third paroxysms running their course without any extraordinary symptoms. The
cold stage of the congestive paroxysm is protracted, and reaction does not occur. The skin be-
comes moist ; the countenance livid and sunken ; the respiration hurried and laborious ; the pulse
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 671
ceases at the wrist, or becomes very feeble; the vital powers sink rapidly; the voice becomes
faint and whining; and the patient soon sinks into a fatal lethargy. Quinine^ if administered
with sufficient freedom, and before the loss of sensation, will almost certainly save the patient.
This same stage of collapse or congestion is not uncommon in the bilious fevers of this climate,
and occurs most frequently on the third or fourth day of the disease. Provided the violence of
the previous fever has been checked by active treatment, and no important organ allowed to
suffer material lesion, quinine will be found equally efficacious if boldly administered. But
quantity must be disregarded. The sinking powers of life must be speedily bolstered, or the
patient is lost. No remedy will compare with large doses of quinine under such circumstances.
The other form of congestive fever is where large and important organs, especially the brain
and stomach, are seriously affected, and supposed to be in a state of congestion. Although no
sinking or general congestion or collapse comes on, it is called congestive fever. The term
collapse would be better for the former condition, and local congestive fever, the latter. It was
this local congestive fever which prevailed, causing such dreadful mortality among the troops
on the prairies west of, and at Fort Gibson, in the fall of 1834.
In the summer of 1836, six companies of the 7th infantry, and three companies of dragoons
from Fort Gibson, then encamped near Fort Towson, were ordered to cross the country to the
Indian towns on the Sabine river, and from thence to Nacogdoches (Texas). We set out about
the middle of July. The country between Red river and the Sabine is intersected by numerous
streams with low banks, bordered by wide bottoms from one-half to four miles in width. These
bottoms had been recently overflowed, and the waters had just retired within their banks when
we marched through the country. The bottoms were wet and miry, rendering them difficult to
cross. The troops were much fatigued with cutting a road, bridging streams, causewaying
swampy places, hauling out the wagons from low and boggy places, and encountering many
other difficulties usual in similar situations. The weather was excessively liot and sultry.
After laboring hard through the day, we were often obliged to lie down on the wet and muddy
banks of a stream, surrounded by immense masses of decaying vegetable substances; all which,
doubtless, had their effect in preparing the system for disease.
We reached Nacogdoches early in August, when the inhabitants were suffering from an epi-
demic fever; many of these inhabitants, having fled from home in fear of hostile Indians and
the Mexican army, were destitute of the necessaries of life. The fever soon appeared in our
camp, as might have been expected, fit subjects as we were from previous exposure to heat,
fatigue, and miasmatic atmosiihere, and in the course of the season not more than five or six of
the whole command escaped an attack. At one time I had over one hundred cases. This fever
was called congestive by many, and was said, by officers who had witnessed both, to be like the
Gibson fever of 1834. The attacks were usually sudden and violent. The first symptoms to which
my attention was usually called, were intense pain and beat of the head, constant thirst, nausea
and vomiting, and coldness of the extremities. On inquiry, I often found these symptoms had
been preceded by coldness or shivering, general uneasiness, or, in the language of the patients,
aching of the bones.
The lancet was often used, and cupping the temples almost invariably resorted to. A steady
stream of cold water moderated the heat of the head, at the same time the feet were plunged in
a mustard-bath as hot as could be borne. The thirst was allayed by cold acid drinks, (vinegar
or lime-juice and water.) The bowels were emptied by an injection or laxative — never purged.
In from 12 to 40 hours, an intermission or remission followed, wlien I administered four grains
of quinine every hall-hour, until sixteen or twenty grains were taken. Tiie subsequent jiarox-
ysm was milder, the second still more so, and the third of scarcely any consequence.
In many instances no paroxysm followed this treatment. This was the boldest jtractice in
quinine then known to me. No case terminated fatally, as far as I now recollect.
Among the inhabitants of Nacogdoches, the disease was treated after the manner most ap-
proved in what is termed bilious fever : 3 ss. or 3 j doses of calomel were administered every 3,
672 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
4, or C) hours, until the patient was purged. The Mexicans did little or nothing. Both were
alike unfortunate. One-tliird of the cases of any severity terminated fatally; the jiatient usu-
ally sinking the third or fourth day of the disease.
The cases occurring among the inhabitants were attended with uo peculiar symptoms, many
of whom came under my treatment, and not one died. The bilious or local congestive fever
will always present the intermissions or remissions above alluded to. These were watclicd with
much interest formerly by the doctors, as i'rom that time the disease assumed a milder or more
aggravated form.
I consider tlie diseases of Florida not unlike those of the southwestern frontier. Intermittent
and continued fevers are common, and not un frequently local and general congestions occur;
and similar treatment to that adopted above will be proper. During the excitement of fever, to
moderate vascular action, and, as soon as an intermission or remission occurs, to neutralize
miasmatic poison, and fortify the system with quinine, will usually be followed by a cure.
Chronic diarrhoea and dysentery are common, and usually depend on ulcerations in the intes-
tinal canal. For tliese, sulphate of copper seems the best remedy : one-eiglith of a grain, with
one grain of rhubarb and half a grain of opium, in pill, thrice daily, was my prescription, and
rarely failed to effect a cure. Sometimes, to reach ulcerations in the lower part of the large in-
testines, injections were necessary. These were prepared as follows: Sulphate of copper, grs. vj,
tinct: opii 3j, water | iv. I thought diarrhoja usually depended on lesions of the small, and
dysentery, of the large intestines.
Convalescence after disease in Florida was generally more tardy than in any other country in
which I have practised. Debilitated persons were usually much benefited by the use of creo-
sote ; one droj) in sugar and mucilage, twice daily, rarely failed to improve the appetite and
increase the strength of the patient.
To my surprise, rheumatism was more common and more difficult to cure than in more
northern latitudes.
J. H. BAILEY, Assistant Sttrgeon U. S. Army.
Fort Towson, October Uth, 1843.
REPORT OF ASSISTANT SURGEON DAVID C. DE LEON.
PniLADELFHiA, September 1, 1843.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your circular dated August 14, 1843; and
will first answer the interrogatories therein propounded, and then offer my views in support of
the opinions advanced.
1st. As regards my experience in the use of quinine, I would state, that a long residence in a
southern climate, both before and since entering the service, has given me an opportunity of
seeing the diseases incidental to such latitudes, and of comparing particularly the relative
advantages derived from the administration of quinine in large and small doses, both from my
own personal experience, and from noticing the treatment pursued by others.
2d. The preparation of quinine used by me has been the sulphate; and I am convinced that
most of it has been pure, being always obtained from the best sources.
3d. The sources from which most of my quinine has been obtained, were from various medi-
cal purveyors, both in and out of Florida, and, when purchased by myself, from the best apoth-
ecaries.
4th. The doses of quinine which I have latterly used as an anti-periodic, have been ten
grains (grs. x) as a minimum dose, and forty grains (grs. xl) as a maximum dose; of course, to
answer other indications, I have used it in other doses and in various combinations. The dose
by enema, or endermically, in relative proportion.
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 673
5th. The diseases in whicli 1 have employed it have been very numerous; some of the princi-
pal were, the various types of fevers (intermittent, remittent, and congestive,) neuralgia, rheu-
matism, chlorosis, dropsies, certain varieties of scrofula, dyspepsia, passive hemorrhages, diar-
rhoea, &c. I have administered it in the tonic and atonic states of the system; and, in answer
to the question whether injurious effects, or unpleasant symptoms, did not less frequently super-
vene in the adynamic state than when tlie powers of life were in an exalted condition, I would
remark, that when tlie nervous system is functionally disturbed, producing an exalted state of
the powers of life by increasing the circulation, so far from any unpleasant effects following the
administration of this remedy, it relieves all the more urgent symptoms, by producing an equi-
librium of nervous power, and in that way removes visceral congestions, enabling other reme-
dies to have their effects.
6th. As regards the modus operandi of this medicine, as an anti-periodic, in the doses stated,
I consider its primary action entirely sedative; and that the system only acquires tone from its
administration, \>y the morbid catenation which produced disease being overcome by its sedative
effects. When used in small doses, and to answer other indications, its action is different. Its
action, then, in the same state of the system, seems to dejiend upon the dose. A small dose
given in the paroxysm of a fever acts as a stimulant; a large dose in the same condition acts as
a sedative. A small dose given to a patient in a debilitated state acts as a tonic, and increases
the tone of the muscular system; a medium dose, in a state of health, acts as a stimulant.
7tli. As regards tlie supervention of diseases of the bowels from its use, ray experience has
been totally the reverse. Tlie jiroportion of diarrhoea, dysentery, and other sequelae of the
fevers of warm climates, since the exhibition of large doses of quinine, seems to me to have
materially diminished ; the disease being checked before any of the viscera suffer lesion enough
to become diseased in a chronic form ; since it is from continued repetition of congestion that a
chronic abnormal condition of the stomach, bowels, liver, spleen, &c., takes place.
8th. From a location in various parts of Florida — on the Atlantic coast, in the interior, and
on the Gulf side of the peninsula — I am inclined to believe that the acute diseases incidental to
this climate are similar to those in other parts of the southern country — intermittent, remit-
tent, and congestive fevers ; the various grades dependent on locality and season. The congestive
fevers prevalent at Port Leon, Tallahassee, and its vicinity, inhabited by planters, were the most
malignant type of disease seen by me while in that region. It has been correctly observed,
that the paradise of vegetables is the grave of the human species; and I am of opinion that
the malignancy of the disease stated, is occasioned by the habit of the planters of building their
residences in the midst of cultivated lands, and thereby being constantly exposed to the effects
of the malaria generated by the continual decay of vegetable matter. As the acute, and more
especially chronic, diseases of the liver and spleen are in most instances the effects of protracted
fever, any remedial means that abridges the primary disease must have a tendency to prevent
such sequela3; therefore, I consider quinine has the effect of preventing these sequelfe. When
the diseases supervene, I have found it the most effectual remedy, both alone and in combination
with other means. The chronic diseases incidental to the climate are extremely unmanageable,
from the fact of the predisposing causes remaining in full force, and from the relaxing effects of
the climate acting upon the body enfeebled by disease, preventing the sanative efforts of the vis
medicafrix naturce; which is a further argument to endeavor to prevent tiiese sequela; by an
early resort to quinine, which cuts short the primary disease.
Having endeavored as succinctly as possible to answer the interrogatories propounded^ I will
now enter into detail as regards the reasons upon whicli my opinions are based, drawn from
observation and physiological facts. In sustaining the views advanced of the therapeutic effects
of quinine, it will be necessary to enter somewhat into detail concerning the various grades of
fever where its application seems most advantageous. In southern climates, fever is the/oTis et
origo of most of the diseases from which the inhabitants suffer. By far the most common variety,
in the generality of locations, is the intermittent type. This type, from its symptoms, most
s. 96 85
674 , REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
particularly appears to depend upon functional injury of the nervous system ; and the increased
circulation which characterizes fever is the eifect, and not the cause. The whole of the initial
symptoms which usher in tlie disease would seem to prove this — the malaise, pain along the
spinal column, and the chill ; and when the fever supervenes, it is most probable that the
increased action of the heart is produced more through the agency of the nerves than by the
mechanical impulse of the increased quantity of blood determined to it. Why this perionicity
of nervous disturbance should occur, the same causes remaining in force, is hard to determine.
One way in which it may be accounted for, is from analogy, as in a healthy state the periodicity
of many vital phenomena is constantly observed. That organic visceral derangements are not
the cause of this fever, would seem to be proved by the perfect state of health and healthy action
of all the organs which sometimes precedes an attack, and also by the feeling of health that the
patient often experiences between the intervals of a paroxysm. We might imagine that lesion
of a nerve would show itself only at intervals, from the fact that foreign bodies have been found
imbedded in nerves, and the diseased phenomena exhibiting themselves periodically. But when
any organ necessary to nutrition is diseased, the eifects of its patliological condition are mani-
fested constantly, till the morbid state is removed. In gastritis and enteritis, as long as the
disease remains, the symptoms are present.
That the mucous membrane of the stomach should be considered the seat of disease in fever,
is not surprising, from the sympathy that exists between the various parts of the nervous
system. Tlie eifect is taken for the cause. In diseases where this viscus is primarily affected,
the train of nervous symptoms, chills, &c., are present; and these are the effects of the primary
disease. In each case the primary disease is to be attacked ; and although in the latter it may
be necessary to relieve the nervous system first, still the remedies must be afterwards applied
which act upon the organ affected. From these views entertained by me, the treatment I
recommend appears manifestly indicated. Sedation of the nervous system by quinine would be
one of the first steps to be achieved. The organs sympathetically affected must be also attended
to. If there is engorgement of the liver, or functional torpor, calomel must be given, com-
bined with quinine, to overcome congestion. If gastritis is j)resent, general blood-letting, if it
is severe, and cupping, either alone, or in combination with it, or leeches, must be resorted to,
and ice administered. If the bowels are in a torpid state, cathartics and enemata are the
indications. If the brain is the seat of congestion, cups or leeches to the temples or nape of
the neck, with ice-water to the head; or general bleeding, if the congestion is very great;
and stimulating enemata, together with sinapisms to the extremities, as revulsive agents. The
host of diaphoretics usually administered, I consider as very slight adjuvants, and often pro-
ductive of injury, or delay of more vigorous treatment. A free blood-letting, or quinine, is a
more certain means of producing this effect, and at the same time answers other indications.
The administration of antimonial powders, acetate of ammonia, &c., is only expectant treat-
ment.
I have stated that I consider the number of cases in which sequela' follow intermittent fever
has been materially diminished since the introduction of large doses of quinine — especially
enlargements of the spleen. The spleen, from its particular structure allowing the intromission
of blood, and from the quantity of this fluid which it ordinarily contains, would seem to be
more particularly obnoxious to passive distension than to congestion, when the blood is deter-
mined from the surface to the centre. The longer, therefore, an intermittent continues, the
greater tolerance of this distension must take place, and chronic enlargement of the spleen is
the result. Although this is not by any means the most imjiortant of the sequelje of fevers, it
is one that we ought to try and prevent.
The strongest argument that large doses of quinine do not produce this enlargement, is, that
in the districts of country in Georgia and the Carolinas where intermittents prevail most exten-
sively, enlarged spleen is very general ; the ricli and the poor are both affected with it. In
these regions quinine is not given in large doses; when given, the doses are small, and a
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 675
number of the poorer part of the population do not use it in any form. Having thus given the
indications in intermittents, I will now make a few observations relative to the remittents. It is
more probable that the remittent type of fever is produced by primary organic disease than the
fever just described. The whole train of symptoms would indicate that there was a different
pathological cause ; the continuity of the paroxysm, and no healthy intervals of intermission
existing, the morbid phenomena always being present. We may readily, then, conclude that
from the effects of the climate, the stomach, liver, or intestines, in this disease, may become in
a morbid condition. The liver generally is the organ diseased; and the nervous system, in the
exacerbation of the paroxysm^ is sympathetically affected. Still, the last symptom must
be overcome, before the remedies necessary to relieve the suffering organ will have their effect.
In other words, the nervous resistance to the effects of therapeutic agents must be combated
first. Quinine, therefore, in combination with calomel, is indicated. It has two effects: reliev-
ing the nervous system, and, by that means, the sufferings of the patient; and at the same time
enabling the calomel to have its specific action. In numerous cases that have come under my
observation, where there was great heat of skin, full hard pulse, furred black-looking tongue, and
headache, with nausea and gastric irritability, the exhibition of quinine grs. xx, calomel grs. x,
in one dose, has relieved all the more urgent symptoms ; the skin has become moist, the pulse
reduced in frequency and hardness, and the head and stomach relieved. Then, the exhibition
of quinine in doses of ten or twenty grains, at intervals of two, four, or six hours, according
to circumstances, has removed the disease. Purgatives, of course, are indicated under the same
circumstances as in intermittents; also general and topical blood-letting, revulsives, &c.; but,
in the generality of these fevers, except in the more violent cases, blood-letting, with the excep-
tion of topical, to remove congestion, is not necessary. In southern climates there is not that
tolerance of frequent depletion that is met with in northern latitudes ; and, therefore, when it can
be dispen.sed with, it is better to do so. Since the exhibition of quinine in large doses, I have
not found the necessity for general blood-letting in half the number of cases that formerly
required it.
I cannot conclude these remarks without adverting to the congestive fever that is endemic to
various parts of the southern country. Congestive fever is characterized in its onset by strongly
marked symptoms of congestion of some of the viscera most important to life, and, of conse-
quence, by great oppression of the nervous system simulating debility. We may, therefore,
conclude that its primary impression is on the nervous system, and that its characteristic symp-
toms may be referred to the want of equal distribution of nervous power. Its suddenly over-
whelming effects on all the viscera of organic life, producing fatal congestions, is further proof
of this hypothesis. When the brain is the seat of congestion, the symptoms are evident.
When the lungs, equally so. When the abdominal viscera, the stomach furnishes evidence not
to be mistaken. What, then, is the tirst indication? Relieve the nervous system, and then
the organ affected can be reached by remedies. Blood-letting, both topical and general, by
taking away from the engorgement of the organs, acts as a revulsive. It is necessary, however,
to watch very closely its effects ; for, in this disease especially, "thus far shalt thou go, and no
farther." If the reaction is prevented, by too great an abstraction, the means which might
have been the salvation of the patient prove his destruction. When a remission is produced by
this treatment, then the great advantage of quinine evinces itself. Sedation produced by it en-
ables the application of other remedies that are indicated — revulsives to the spine, stomach, or
back; calomel, to relieve the stomach, liver, or bowels; and ice, to relieve the gastritis. In the
algid variety of this disease, where the patient is pulseless and cold up to the trunk, without,
however, the mental faculties being affected, proving a retrocession of the vital fluid to the
centre, and an engorgement of the source of animal heat — the lungs, — then the indication is a
diffusible stimulant, and that which has proved most advantageous in my hands is gum cam-
phor 3j, ether sulphuric §j; a tea-spoonful of this solution in a wine-glass full of brandy-
toddy, every half hour, till the lost balance of the circulation begins to be restored; then re-
676 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
vulsives will act — such as turpentine, mustard-poultices, or stimulating frictions of croton-oil
to the extremities and spine ; also, mustard and salt pediluvia, &c. There is one diffusible
stimulant that I think of immense value — the cold douche. By placing the extremities in hot
■water, and dashing cold water over the body, reaction sometimes takes place in desperate cases
of internal congestion. The topical external congestion produced by cups also assists. But what
is gained by this treatment, if the same train of symptoms are again to supervene in the next
paroxysm? The organs congested become in a passive state of dilatation, and offer less resist-
ance to the influx of the congesting fluid ; the shattered nervous system also offers less resist-
ance ; and the organs may either be rujitured, or maintain tlieir state of sfasis, despite of remedies.
Either of wliich events will prove fatal. It is here that quinine has been most advantageous.
In doses often to forty grains, combined with calomel — ten to twenty grains at first, and afterwards
given alone — it produces that sedation which destroys periodicity. I have seen this efi'ect pro-
duced in so many instances, that I cannot doubt it. I do not go as far as those that state this
to be your only indication, or to suppose that quinine is the El Dorado in medicine. But it is
a breastwork, without which the enemy cannot be repelled, and behind which the system can
be so fortified as to make the necessary arrangements to repel him.
Another disease which frequently attacks residents in warm climates is neuralgia, in various
forms. The same miasmata which produce intermittent fever in some, will produce periodical
hemicrania in others. It seems to be the most probable supposition, that malaria and other
poisons, as well as remedial agents, act through tlie sentient extremities of the nerves, and affect
the brain and nervous system generally by irradiation. In this painful affection, quinine and
morphine, either of them separately, prevent the periodicity ; and we may therefore draw tlie
inference, that, as they produce the same eflect, their methodus medendi is the same. Large
doses of quinine, in many cases that have come under my observation, have invariably proved
beneficial ; small doses have as invariably aggravated the symptoms. Large doses of morphine
have had the same beneficial tendency, and small doses have been attended with an aggravation
of the symptoms. The sedative influence of morphine being acceded to, it would appear that
quinine must act in a similar manner in this disease. It is a matter of general observation, that
opium may be exhibited in very large doses, in cases where great pain is present, without pro-
ducing any deleterious effects ; while, if the same quantity were given in a healthy state, its
poisonous properties would evince themselves. Why may not quinine, in like manner, in func-
tional injuries of the nervous system, have the effect of quieting the symptoms; while, if given in
a state of health, we would expect different results to follow its application ? I have only treated
of hemicrania so far as the therapeutic application of quinine is concerned, without adverting to
other remedies. In many other forms of neuralgia, quinine has been followed with equally bene-
ficial results. I will conclude by adverting to the probable cause of the diversity of opinion among
eminent men, at the north and south, on the subject of quinine treatment. At the north, there
is more tolerance of the system to repeated general blood-letting, and a greater necessity for it,
than at the south; and, therefore. Dr. Rush and his followers thought that great quantities of
blood should be abstracted in all acute diseases. At the south, this treatment will not answer,
except in very violent cases, as the blood-making powers are not so vigorous, and too much
debility follows. Quinine was found to be a substitute for this treatment, and its after-effects
were not so injurious. Its great advantage, indeed, is the speedy convalescence which follows
diseases treated by it. The great bulk of medical men being educated in northern schools, and
the teachers inculcating views adapted to their climate, especially in clinical instruction, is
another reason why the difference of diseases in northern and southern latitudes is not more
generally attended to.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
D. C. DE LEON, Assistant Surgeon U. S. Army.
Surgeon General Thomas Lawson,
U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 677
KEPORT OF ASSISTANT SURGEON THOMAS C. 5IADIS0N.
FoKT Leavexwoeth, December 17, 1843.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit answers to the following interrogatories on the adminis-
tration of the sulpliate of quinine:
"1. What is the extent of your experience in this respect?"
Answer. In February, 1841, I met with Surgeon B. F. Harney, then medical director of the
Florida army, from whom I received the first suggestions as to the propriety of administering
quinine in doses larger than those ordinarily prescribed, and have continued to practise the
above up to the present period.
"2. Was it always the sulphate of quinine that you have prescribed? If so, was it pure?"
Ans. I have always prescribed the sulphate of quinine, and have never suspected its purity —
the effect being always such as anticipated.
"3. From what source has your quinine been obtained?"
Ans. From the medical purveyors of tlie army.
"4. In how large doses have you administered it, both as regards the extreme and average
quantity?"
Ans. One scruple is the extreme dose I have prescribed at one time, though in some instances
the above amount has been repeated every two or three hours, till as much as two drachms have
been taken. The average dose is ten grains.
"5. State the specific diseases in which you have employed it, with all the necessary details,
and especially as regards tlie tonic or atonic state of tlie system; and whether injurious effects,
or at least unpleasant symptoms, did not less frequently supervene in the adynamic state than
when the powers of life were in an exalted condition."
Ans. Congestive, remittent, and the different types of intermittent fever, cephalalgia, and
neuralgia, or nerve-ache, occurring in any part of the body, as odontalgia, otalgia, &c. — I give
quinine in botli the tonic and atonic states of the system. I have seldom seen unpleasant
symptoms, and never injurious effects, from the exhibition of quinine, in either the dynamic or
adynamic condition of tlie system. Quinine causes tinnitus aurium less frequently when the
powers of life are in an exalted condition. I have seen the most intense headache entirely
relieved when the pulse was full, strong, and lYequent, and the skin hot and dry.
"6. Give your opinion as to the modus operandi of this therapeutic agent: whether, for
instance, you regard it as a tonic, a sedative, or a stimulant?"
Ans. I regard quinine, in different diseases, and in different stages of the same disease, as
possessing all of the above properties.
"7. Since the practical introduction of quinine in large doses, the statistics of this Bureau
exhibit a much higher ratio of diseases of the bowels — as, for instance, diarrhoea and dysentery ;
and, also, a much higher average of mortality from the same diseases. It remains, therefore,
to be determined how far this result is due to this cause, or the operation of other agents."
Ans. I do not believe that quinine has ever caused either diarrhoea or dysentery, nor do I
believe that its administration has ever led to the death of a patient; the occasional reports in
different medical journals to the contrary notwithstanding.
"8. What have been your observation and experience in regard to the influence of the climate
of Florida; the acute diseases incident thereto; or the use of quinine in inducing acute and
chronic affections of the liver and spleen?"
Ans. The climate of Florida had, no doubt, great influence in inducing acute and chronic
diseases — hepatitis, splenitis, gastritis, inflammation of the brain, diarrhoea, and dysentery —
when you take into consideration the many jirivations to which the troops were necessarily
subjected, the fatiguing marches while exposed to the direct agency of a hot sun's rays, the
indifferent character of the water they were compelled to drink, the unwholesome food, and
678 EEPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
the complication of scorbutus, especially at many or all of the interior posts. I have never
known quinine to cause either acute or chronic affections of the liver or spleen. The class of
people who seemed to suffer most from the sequelas of fever — enlargements of the liver and
spleen, anasarca, or droi)sical effusion in any part of tlie body — were tliose commonly denomi-
nated "Crackers," who left Georgia soon after tlie commencement of the war, and squatted in
the vicinity of many of the military posts for protection. None of the above class had ever
heard of quinine, nor had they ever used any prejiaration of cinchona whatever.
"9. State whatever else you may deem appropriate to the subject."
Ans. Quinine frequently acts on the glands (particularly the salivary) and liver, exciting
both salivation and the secretion of bile. In its action on the liver, it is very nearly allied to
calomel, (protochloride of mercury,) and the character of the alvine evacuations is precisely
the same. During the Big Cypress expedition, when we were marching week after week
through mud and water, seldom encountering sufficient dry ground on which to encamp, I was
particularly careful to exclude calomel from my list of remedies. I prescribed quinine for a
captain of dragoons under intermittent fever ; ptyalism was the result, and I found it quite
difficult to convince the officer that there had been no mercurial combination. Its action on
the skin is very decided ; and when the conditions for diaj^horesis are unfavorable, diuresis is
the result; though I have never myself noticed the latter effect. In a case of intermittent
diarrhoea, which recurred with the strictest periodicity every day or every other day — I do not
recollect the exact type — an assistant surgeon, with whom I was associated at the time, admin-
istered twenty grains of sulphate of quinine with perfect success. In conclusion, as all diseases
partake more or less of an intermittent character, and as the sulphate of quinine is the great
anti-intermittent, jx^")' excellence, 1 consider it the most valuable remedial agent of which the
materia medica can boast.
I am, sir, most respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. C. MADISON,
Assistant Surgeon U. S. Army.
Dr. Thojias Lawson,
Surgeon General U. 8. Army, Washington, D. C.
REPORT OF ASSISTANT SURGEON RICHARD F. SIMPSON.
Fort Leavenworth, Mo., '[st December, 1843.
Sir: To the "interrogatories" contained in your "circular" of the 14th August last, I have
the honor to make the following replies :
"1. What is the extent of your experience in this respect?"
Ans. My experience must, of course, be limited; but, as far as it goes, is decidedly in favor of
large doses — i. e. , in doses much larger than are prescribed by all the works on the materia
medica to which I have had access.
"2. Was it always the sidpJiate of quinine that you have prescribed? If .so, was it pure?"
Ans. I have never prescribed any other jjreparation of quinine than the sulphate, and believe
it was pure, but, indeed, did not test its purity by any other means than a red heat.
"3. From what source has your quinine been obtained?"
Ans. From the medical purveyors of the army, with the exception of a small quantity used
during the past summer.
"4. In how large doses have you administered it, both as regards the extreme and the average
quantity?"
Ans. The extreme dose was thirty grains, and the average about ten. In a case, reported
below, two hundred grains were administered in a very short time.
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 679
tt t
'5. State the specific diseases in which you have employed it, with all the necessary details,
and especially as regards the tonic or atonic state of the system; and whether injurious effects, or
at least unpleasant symptoms, did not less frequently supervene in the adynamic state than
when the powers of life were in an exalted condition?"
Ans. I have employed it in simple and complicated intermittent, remittent, and congestive
fevers; intermittent neuralgia, intermittent ophthalmia, intermittent cephalalgia, epilepsy, &c.
Prior to the administration of quinine in simple intermittents, I seldom find it necessary to
prescribe any evacuants, hut give it in the intermission, in two doses of ten grains each; occa-
sionally the whole quantity is ordered two or three liours before the expected attack. I cannot
give preference to either practice ; the latter has been quite as successful as the former. My
limited experience in the treatment of intermittent fever has taught me that the more the
patient is purged, puked, or evacuated in any way, to prepare his system for the quinine, the
more liable he is to relapses.
When the disease is complicated with dysentery or diarrhoea, I premise the administration of
this medicine by a dose of ol: ricini and tine: opii ; after its operation, the quinine is given, with
a few grains of pulv: Dov: et sub: mur: hydrarg.
As regards the use of quinine in remittent fevers, I have usually delayed it until a subsidence
of the febrile symptoms took place; but then, again, I have ordered it in twenty-grain doses,
notwithstanding an irritated pulse, hot skin, tliirst, and head-ache. In all instances the disease
has yielded; under such circumstances it acted j)Owerfully, either on the skin or kidneys, or
produced bilious discharges from the bowels.
The only cases of imequivocal congestive fever, that I have treated, were in Florida: the
most interesting one of which occurred at Punta Rassa. The man was attacked suddenly with
drowsiness, vertigo, and urgent thirst; bowels constipated, tongue dark-brown and dry, ano-
rexia, pulse small and quick, extremities cold, and in a few hours low muttering delirium came
on. Sinapisms were freely used, and a mercurial purge given. On the succeeding day the pa-
tient was more prostrated; the delirium continued, with subsultus tendinum; alvine dejections
involuntary, and of a clay color; urine also passed in bed; tongue almost black and very dry.
Blisters were now applied to tlie nape of the neck and extremities, and quiniaet sub: mur: hydrarg:
da grs. XX, ordered every hour. After the third dose I imagined a slight improvement ; the
calomel was omitted, and the quinine continued every two hours. Shortly after the last dose
of mercury, it acted on the bowels, bringing away very large dark and oflensive stools ; this I
regarded as favorable, and reduced the quinine to ten grains at short intervals, until the
patient had taken, in less than 18 hours, 200 grains. On the third day there was, evidentlj',
great improvement ; the tongue was moist, the pulse more full and regular ; the blisters had taken
effect with the disappearance of the vertigo, delirium, &c. ; the patient slept some during tlie
day, and soundly at night, from the influence of half a grain of morphine. Apprehending, on
the fourth day, a return of the congestive symjitoms, ten grains of quinine were ordered every
third hour, and the blisters to be dressed witli ungt: mer:. The patient on the fifth day was so
much improved that only an inf: serp: et elix: vit:, wine, and soup were prescribed. The mer-
cury did not salivate him. His convalesence was slow, but perfect.
It may, perhaps, add somewhat to the interest of the case to remark, that before the man
was able to leave the hospital, the hurricane of the 19th October occurred, and he was in water
nearly six hours without any clothing except a shirt. Whether tlie credit of the cure in the
above case is to be given to the mercury, blisters, or quinine, one thing is evident — that, not-
withstanding an apparent congestion of the brain, the latter did him no injury, but, on the con-
trary, was the undoubted means of saving his life.
I might detail similar cases, but of less interest. In two instances only have I seen the
medicine i'ail in congestive fevers — one, at the general hospital. Cedar Keys; the other, at tnis
post. In the latter, the man liad had frequent attacks of pleuritis, and no doubt labored under
lesion of the lungs ; in the former, reaction could not be established by the most powerful
680 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
stimulants, to<2;ether with large doses of quinine. I made a post-mortem examination, and
found a deeply confjcsted liver, with an injected state of the mucous coat of the stomach ; hut
I believe that the condition of the latter organ occurred in articuJo mortis.
Only one case of interiuittent neuralgia has come under my observation; the pain was in the
tibial nerves ; the type quotidian. Twenty grains of quinine in the intermission relieved the
])atient, without any evacuants.
During the ])ast summer, I met with an unusually obstinate case of ophthalmia ; various means,
such as cathartics, cups, blisters, antimonials, astringent washes, &c., were used to subdue the
inflammation, but without success ; the i)atient had been subject to intermittent fever, and,
upon inquiring minutely into his symptoms, I learned that the eye was much more painful in
the afternoon of each day, and that it declined about the middle of the night, with a free per-
s])iration. Twenty grains of quinine were given him, in two doses ; the pain and inflammation
left the eye, and he quickly recovered.
I have seen but two cases of periodical headache; the pain came on about 11 a. jM., in the
left temple, and over the left eye. Twenty grains of quinine in the intermission, without pre-
vious evacuation, cured them perfectly.
The only remaining case of disease, of any interest, in which I have prescribed large doses
of quinine, was one (if it may so be called) of malarious epilepsy. In the summer of 1842,
while on a branch of the St. Mary's river, Florida, I was requested to prescribe for Miss G — ,
a;tat. 20, who had been subject to epilejjtic attacks for 14 years ; at the early age of six years she
was seized with a severe dysentery, which continued with great violence for eight days, when
the first fit of convulsions came on ; they Ibllowed each other in rapid succession for three-
quarters of an hour, and left her in a comatose state from 3 o'clock, p. Ji., until sunrise on the
following morning. The dysenteric symptoms began to decline, and in a few days she was en-
tirely well of tliem, and enjoyed pretty good health for nearly two years ; her memory was,
however, much impaired. At the expiration of two years, the convulsions returned, and con-
tinued to recur with great regularity at the period of every full moon, for eighteen months,
when they became very irregular, attacking her several times during the month — occasionally
at night, in bed, but more frequently during the day ; again, they would not return for two or
three months. About her tenth year, a large and painful tumor, having all the characteristics
of high inflammation, made its appearance on the dorsal aspect of her right hand ; but in a
few days would resemble a contusion, and remain in statu quo for some months, without any
tendency either to resolution or suppuration. The tumor would occasionally disappear from
the hand, and fix on some other part, generally the metatarsus of the left foot — though no por-
tion of the body was exempt from it ; the opposite side was, however, always selected. During
the declension of the tumor, and before it was located in its new position, the convulsions were
frequent and severe, amounting to twenty or thirty in twenty-four hours. In addition to her
other sufferings, she became subject in her loth year to a distressing vertigo — so severe, indeed,
that she was incapacitated from either walking or standing without assistance. The catamenia
appeared at 19; without, however, producing the slightest change in her deplorable condition.
About two years ago, the tumor attacked the left hand, and a small abscess formed near the
first phalanx of the middle finger. The ulcer was healed with great difliculty.
The above history of the case was furnished me by her mother, who was very ignorant and
superstitious, believing — and I failed in convincing her to the contrary — that her daughter
was under the influence of witchcraft.
At 20, the following condition and symptoms were present : face exsanguineous ; appetite
good; bowels constipated; furred tongue; pulse small, rapid, and intermitting; deep-seated
pain in the anterior part of the brain ; metacarpus of the right hand has the appearance of a
contusion, and somewhat sensitive to the touch ; neuralgic pains in the arms, legs, chest, and
abdomen ; sleeps tolerably well ; can recollect the faces of strangers, but not their names ;
constant vertigo; unable to walk, or even stand, without assistance; lower cervical and upper
OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 681
dorsal vertebras very tender to the touch ; menses regular, healthy in appearance and quantity ;
and has occasional fever of the tertian type. Cups and blisters were applied to the spine, and
the bowels opened by calomel and rhubarb. Permanent irritation to the lumbar vertebrre, blue
mass and castor-oil to regulate the bowels, and the nitrate of silver, were used with only tem-
porary benefit, for two months. Confidently believing that but little improvement would suc-
ceed the above treatment, I determined, in addition, to try the efiects of quinine, as there was
scarcely any doubt of the malarious origin of her disease, and that quinine was an antidote to
the poison of that deleterious but invisible agent ; accordingly, 20 grains were given at night,
and re])eated early on the following morning. The medicine produced a fullness of the vessels
of the head, tinnitus aurium, and partial deafness, but relieved her so much from the vertigo,
&c., that she was enabled to walk some distance, which she had not done for years before. The
bright anticipations of recovery were, however, of short duration; the vertigo, &c., returned
in five or six days, and the medicine was repeated, with a similar result. Indisposition having
disabled me from visiting her, I sent her the quinine and oxide of zinc, and heard that she had
much improved, although her sanguine hopes of recovery had been dissipated by the occasional
return of tlie convulsions, vertigo, &c. From the long standing of the above case, I believe
all the powers of the "healing art" would have been inadequate to have effected a perfect cure;
but am firmly of opinion, that if the quinine could have been used for a sufficient length of
time, she would have been materially, perhaps permanently, benefited by it.
Lastly. I have to state that I do not recollect ever to have seen injurious effects from the
use of quinine in fever; for I presume that is what is particularly referred to by the "powers
of life being in an exalted condition."
"6. Give your opinion as to the modus operandi of this therapeutic agent — whether, for instance,
you regard it as a tonic, a sedative, or a stimulant?"
Ans. So little is known about the modus operandi of any medicine, that I cannot venture a
theoretical opinion ; but will merely state the efiects that I have seen from the drug under con-
sideration :
Quinine, in large doses, seems to act as a tonic, sedative, or stimulant, in certain modifica-
tions of disease; this may appear a contradiction, but a reference to the above cases will estab-
lish the fact. In the case of congestive fever, it certainly operated as a powerful tonic and stimu-
lant; and, on the contrary, in the case of epilepsy, it produced a sedative effect, or at least it
quieted the irregular action of the heart and arteries, and controlled the nervous system in a
remarkable manner. In a few instances it has caused a soreness of the mouth, resembling
ptyalism, I have also seen it act powerfully on the skin and kidneys, and produce bilious
evacuations. In intertropical regions, and marshy districts of higher latitudes, the quinine
undoubtedly acts as an antidote to the malarious poison ; this is abundantly proved by its
acknowledged power over all diseases of a miasmatic origin.
"7. Since the practical introduction of quinine in large doses, the statistics of this Bureau
exhibit a much higher ratio of diseases of the bowels — as, lor instance, diarrhoea and dysentery —
and also a much higher average of mortality from the same diseases. It remains, therefore, to
be determined how tar this result is due to this cause, or to the operation of other agents."
Ans. Almost simultaneously with the practical introduction of large doses of quinine in
army practice, a great proportion of troops was sent to operate against the Indians in the
swamps and marshes of Florida. Will not that account for the high ratio of bowel diseases?
It is admitted by all physicians that "koino-miasmata" are not only a cause of fever, but also of
dysentery, diarrhoea, and other affections of the abdominal viscera. Quinine does occasionally
purge ; but, so far as I know, it never lias jiroduced a dysentery, diarrhoea, or any thing approx-
imating to them.
"8. What have been your observation and experience in regard to the influence of the climate
of Florida, the acute diseases incident thereto, or the use of quinine in inducing acute and chronic
affections of the liver and spleen ?"
S. 9t) SU
682 REPORTS ON THK ADMINISTRATION
Ans. Not only in Florida, but also throughout the greater part of the southern section of
the United States, maybe seen the horrible eftects of malaria in inducing physical, and perha])s
mental imbecility. Even the growth and develo]imcnt of the infant are frequentl}' arrested by its
influence; and almost before the cliild has attained the age of maturity he is borne down with
the decrepitude of old age, or at least lives a protracted and lingering life, "like the sickly
exotic of a green-house." Tlie few cases of acute and chronic disease of tlie liver and spleen
that came under my observation in Florida, were attril)uta1ile not to the use of quinine, but to
the deleterious effects of malaria. Many of the citizens on the frontier of Florida were laboring
under the sequelic of intermittent fever — such as anasarca, sallow complexion, enlarged spleen,
&c.; these conditions were the effects of rejjeated attacks of ague, and not of the use of quinine,
for there was none in the country; consequently, they could not have been caused by it. I fur-
nished a few with the medicine, with directions to take it in fifteen-grain doses, and learned that
it not only arrested the disease, but also reduced the spleen to its normal condition, and relieved
the icterode hue of the skin. Similar results I witnessed in the general hospital. Cedar Keys.
I should also state that, in addition, small doses of calomel, and mercurial frictions over the
enlarged viscus, were used. It was remarked by Dr. Randall and myself tliat almost all the
cases of the above affections that came under treatment in the general hospital were sent from
posts where it was well ascertained that the medical officer prescribed very small doses of the
medicine. I conscientiously believe that, as the prejudice against quinine diminishes, in the
same ratio will the sequela} of intermittent and remittent fevers disappear.
"9. State whatever else you may deem appropriate to the subject."
Ans. Above I have given the substance of my experience in tlie use of quinine; but will take
this occasion to state, that I should not only do great injustice to a valuable member of our corps,
but also to my own feelings, did I fail to acknowledge who first taught me its value. I went to
Florida with all the prejudices and dogmas of tl e schools against it; but, fortunately, soon after
my arrival in the Territory, I met with Surgeon B. F. Harney, who instructed me in its applica-
tion to disease ; and I believe, by following his advice, I saved many lives which otherwise would
have fallen victims to the impotent practice of two-grain doses.
R. F. SIMPSON,
Assistant Surgeon.
Dr. Thomas Lawson,
Surgeon General U. 8. Army, WnsJnngfon, D. C.
REPORT OF assistant SURGEON JOHN BYRNE.
FoKT Brady, September 9, 1843.
Sir: In answer to the queries contained in your circular of August 14, 1843, I have the
honor to submit the following replies:
1st. I was upwards of three years in Florida. For the first year and a half, I served (except
for short periods) with but one company, stationed at healthy positions, (Micanopy, and No. 3;)
so that, during this period, I saw but few cases of fever, and, in these few, I used quinine in
small doses, and in intermittents only. During the remainder of my service I was stationed,
with commands varying from four companies to two regiments, often at sickly positions, and
occasionally at the general hospital at Cedar Keys. I was ordered to Sarasota when fever
raged to such an extent among the 1st infantry ; a part of the sick of which regiment I accom-
panied to Cedar Keys. Here, for a few weeks, I assisted Dr. Wright, through whose kindness
I daily saw all the cases, (some two or three hundred in number,) and the practice pursued.
Of the number of fevers and dysenteries which I have treated, I cannot form a correct esti-
OF QUININE IN LAKGE DOSES. 683
mate; but I think 1 am withiu bounds in saying that my daily sick-report, during the last two
years of my service in Florida, varied from fifteen to two hundred — exclusive, of course, of cases
occurring among quartermaster's men, officer's families, and citizens. If more exact informa-
tion is deemed necessary, I would refer to the quarterly sick-reports of Micanopy, from May to
September, 1840; of Fort King, from September, 1840, to February, 1841; of Tampa, from
February to July, 1841, (during which time I was stationed at Tampa with other medical
officers ;) of the fort on Pease creek, for a part of the same summer ; and of Tampa, from August,
1841, to January, 1842.
2d. I nearly always used quinine in the form of sulphate, as I gave this salt mechanically
diffused in water; occasionally, howe^rer, though rarely, I gave the super sulphate in solution.
From the effects of tlie article I used, I have little hesitation in declaring my belief that it was
pure. Moreover, from the obstinacy of some cases of intermittents, I was, at times, led to doubt
the 2^urity of the quinine employed But, on testing it with alcohol and sulphuric acid, I always
found it unadulterated.
3d. My supplies of this article, with the exception of a small quantity received at Fort King,
came, I have reason to believe, indirectly from New York. As well as I can recollect, it was
generally prepared by Pelletier & Caventou ; but of this I am not quite certain.
4th. The usual quantity of quinine I prescribed at one dose was 4 grs. This was repeated,
so that from 10 to 20 grs. should be taken in from 8 to 12 hours, immediately preceding the
expected paroxysm of disease, which it was designed to ward off. I have, however, ad-
ministered it in grain doses — very frequently in 10 and 12-grain doses, and several times seen it
given in 40-grain doses, repeated until two or three doses had been taken.
5th. I have employed quinine in the treatment of simple intermittents, remittents, congestive
fevers, and some few cases of continued malarious fever of low type. In combination with Dover's
powder, I have prescribed it with advantage in some cases of chronic dysentery, and, in con-
junction with calomel and Dover's powder, in acute dysentery of low type.
The remarks which I shall submit will be arranged with a view to the order of the above
enumeration of diseases. Let me state, however, in the outset, in direct answer to the ques-
tions contained in paragraph 5 of your circular, that my experience warrants the belief that
injurious and unpleasant consequences do less frequently supervene from the use of quinine in
adynamic states, than in affections in which the powers of life are in an exalted condition.
The diseases of settlers in Florida from the north assume a more inflammatorv form during
the first year of their residence in the south than they do subsequently. This remark is par-
ticularly true of fevers. Hence, in fevers arising in such subjects, due attention must be paid to
the employment of antiphlogistic measures jjrevious to the use of quinine. Indeed, in this class
of cases, I have rarely derived those markedly happy results from quinine which I have seen
follow its judicious employment in the fevers of persons who had been two years or upwards in
the south, particularly if they suffered many attacks of the disease. While stationed at Fort
King, this fact was pressed particularly on my attention. Tlie garrison of the fort consisted of
a portion of the 2d infantry, who had served for upwards of two years in the south; and in its
vicinity was encamped the 8th infantry, which had just arrived from the north. Time and again,
I observed that quinine could be administered successfully in the fevers of the soldiers of the
2d, without much attention ts the ordinary precautions deemed necessary in the use of this
medicine ; while, employed in the same manner, and during the same epidemic, with the 8th, if
it did not exasperate the disease, it at least failed to check its progress. This fact, I may re-
mark, may account for some of the discrej)ancies in the opinions entertained in reference to the
eflects of quinine.
In accordance with the above principle, I used antiphlogistics in treating the intermittents of
new comers, until a complete intermission was obtained. I then administered quinine gene-
rally in substance, either alone or combined with a diaphoretic or nauseant. I found that from
6 to 20 grains, administered during the apyrexia, was sufficient to check the disease. The
684 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
quantity varied witli the season and locality. The advantages attributed to the various modes
of administering it naturally come under discussion in this place.
Every physician has his own method of exhibiting quinine; and as he meets with success, he
infers that his is the only true one. Now, the truth is, that if a sufficient qnantity of it, when it
is indicated, is administered in the intermission or remission of a malarious fever, it will check
the disease. I conceive it of no importance, so far as the ultimate effect is concerned, whether
it is given in 2, 3, 4, or 16-grain doses, provided enough of it is taken in the proper time.
One advantage the larger doses certainly possess — namely, that the patient is not so apt to be
sickened by the frequent repetition of a nauseous drug. But as the accession of a paroxysm of
fever cannot be predicted within an hour or two, when fevers prevail to any extent, (for they
then anticipate variously,) we often fail in warding oil' the attack when we administer tlie whole
of the quinine at one dose. From these circumstances, I have been led to use it, as I have
already stated, in four-grain doses, as sufficiently large to prevent too frequent repetition,
while, at the same time, the influence of at least 12 grains is insured before the period of acces-
MOii, even if the paroxysm anticipates considerably. Large doses, I have often heard it asserted
by the advocates of them, rarely produce those disagreeable irritative effects, such as singing in
the ears, &c., which we frequently witness from the use of small ones. It was said by way of
explanation, that quinine, like opium, is a stimulant in small doses, and a sedative in large ones.
My experience would not justify me in assenting to these propositions. After a careful exami-
nation of a number of cases in which I administered quinine in large (12 to 16 grains) and
small doses, with a view to this very subject, I came to the conclusion that the disagreeable
effects referred to followed the exhibition of large doses as often as it did small ones, and that
they are dependent upon the peculiar organization of the nervous system^ and not upon the
quantity of quinine given at one dose.
But if the dose in which quinine is administered in intermittents and remittents is a matter
of indifference, such is not the case in congestive fevers. Here the use of large doses has a real
value, as I shall notice when I speak of this class of fevers ; and one of the most important
facts learned from the use of large doses in ordinary fevers, is, that they can be administered
with impunity ; so tliat in congestive cases the physician does not hesitate to use such quantities
of quinine as can alone often be successful, but which he would not have ventured to administer
had it not been for this knowledge.
Medical men differ, too, respecting the period of fever at which quinine is administered with
most effect. For my part, I have used it only in the intermission, except in congestive cases.
I have, however, seen it administered, in a few cases, in the middle of the paroxysm of
remittents of rather a low type. In these instances it did not aggravate the disease, although
it did not alleviate it. Nor did it supersede the necessity of administering the remedy in the
intermission, for the disease ran on until it was thus checked. It will not be out of place to
remark here, that these cases afforded examples of that false reasoning, by which a remedy fre-
quently gains an undeserved reputation. Quinine was administered about 9 p. si. The next
morning the patient was nearly free from fever, oppression of the brain, and other unpleasant
symptoms; all of which beneficial changes were attributed to the quinine, while, in reality,
they were referrible to the stadia — the habits, if I may so express it^ of the disease itself. Had
no quinine been administered, the result would have been precisely the same. Having used
quinine only in the intermission and remission, I cannot, from observed facts, pronounce upon
its efficacy when given at the height or toward the end of a paroxysm ; but, judging from
analogy, I am not prepared to believe that its use, under such circumstances, is safe and effica-
cious, aggravating no symptom or any inflammation which may be present, as I have heard
some medical officers assert ; although I will admit that it is less apt to do so than is generally
believed.
Again, we are told by some, that quinine, if delayed until the 7th, 14th, &c days of period-
ical fevers, displays more power in checking them and preventing their return than if adminis-
OF QUININE IN LAEGE DOSES. 685
tered without regard to these periods. I have used it in this manner, but have not derived from
it the predicated advantages. Delay in the use of it is open to some objections, and affords
no real advantage. As an almost universal rule, I can check an intermittent on anv day of its
progress I please, and hence cannot do it more quickly on the 7th or 14th, &c. And, secondly,
nothing will prevent its return, in most cases^ short of leaving the atmosphere which produces
it. Suhlatd causa, tolUtur effectus. As long as malaria is in operation, so long, for a certain
period at least, will it produce fever and cause its return. That which produces fever in tlie
first instance, when the patient is in good health and best prepared to resist disease, is certainly
equal to the reproduction of it when the health has been impaired and the conservative powers
of the system lessened. Such are the effects which common sense would lead us to anticipate,
and such precisely are they found in practice.
Neither the administration of quinine on the 7th, 14th, &c. days, nor bleeding in the cold stage,
will prevent the recurrence of agues, as long as the patient is exposed to the action of malaria.
On the other hand, while we delay the use of quinine, our patient becomes weaker from the
return of repeated paroxysms, and not unfrequently an intermittent runs into a remittent.
His general health is more broken up when he does recover, and hence, presenting less vital
resistance to disease, will be more liable to its return. For these reasons, I do not believe that
the delay of the use of quinine until the 7th, 14th, &c. days of fever, is a correct practice.
In the intermittents of those who have resided for a few years in tlie south, particularlv if
they have suffered many attacks, quinine may often be used with the happiest effects, without
recourse being previously had to any preparation of the system, as it is called. I rarely found
intermittents, in Florida, accompanied by those evidences of diseased secretions so much spoken
of by authors. The tongue was often clean, and the alvine discharges natural in character and
frequency. In such cases, the use of preparatory means only weakened the patient and con-
sumed time. A patiert of this class reports, at 8 o'clock, that two days previously he had an
ague fit at 11. Give him 10 or 15 grains of quinine at once, (add opium or a diaphoretic, if you
please,) and there is an end of his ague for two or three weeks.
Finally, I have never met with an intermittent which I could not check for the time with
quinine, or quinine and opium. Neither bark, opium, arsenic, nor any other medicine, can com-
pare with it as an anti-periodic, either for certainty of effect, or (and more particularly) for the
short space of time initentsstem lu effect is produced. I would not, however, be understood to
say that I excluae" than theflst not bpifts from my practice; on the contrary, there are cases in
which I much prefer some of them to quinine; but I merely state a general law, to which, of
course, there are exceptions.
In remittents, quinine was administered with great advantage during the first fair remission,
which usually occurred on the fourth day of their progress. Thus was a disease at once cut short,
which would otherwise have taken several days to run itself out. I was educated in the belief
that quinine should be used in intermittents only, and after a careful preparation of the system;
but that in remittents, its administration was not to be entertained for a moment. A more in-
jurious opinion, if I can judge from what I saw of remittents in Florida, could not have been
inculcated. For a year and a half I acted upon this principle, and can now call to mind more
than one patient whom I permitted to be worn down by repeated paroxysms of lever, rather than
have recourse to quinine, because no lengthened intermission or occun-ence of chill marked the
case as one of intermittent. Subsequently I learned the value of quinine in all malarious fevers
having a plain remission, even if that remis.sion was of but a few hours' duration; and then had
the satisfaction of being able to put an immediate stop to a disease winch, under the former
treatment I pursued, would continue lor a length of time, and either prove fatal in the end, or
leave the patient very feeble after his recovery.
But it is in congestive fever that the value of quinine is particularly displayed. A patient
falls down suddenly overpowered ; he appears insensible ; it is difiScult to rouse him : or his
countenance presents a vacant stare ; and, when questioned respecting his condition, he informs
686 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
you that there is little or nothing the matter with him ; that lie wishes not to be disturbed ;
his extremities are cold ; his skin generally not above the natural temperature^ and sometimes
covered with a clammy moisture ; his breathing embarrassed. Now, I think I am correct in
saying, that such a condition would formerly liave been lookeil upon as one of congestion of the
internal organs, and that venesection would have been resorted to for its relief. Quite differ-
ently would the advocate for the use of quinine, in such a case, reason. He would view it as
one of poison from malaria, congestion not being the first link in the morbid chain, but the
mere consequence of the poisonous impression made on the nervous system ; the antidote for
this poisonous impression, experience has taught him, is quinine. In the supposed example,
he administers 20 grains of it, in combination with ca})sicum, laudanum, turpentine, or cam-
phor ; or he gives a smaller quantity, and directs its repetition in an hour or so ; he also directs
the application of warmth and stimulating frictions. Reaction will be tlius brought about, and
but little else is required to insure the safety of the patient than a few large doses of quinine
and Dover's powder, given some hours previous to the expected return of the paroxysm. I
feel very confident that the result would have been different had the lancet been used, and qui-
nine neglected, in the first instance. These are the cases in which it is not a matter of indiffer-
ence whether large or small doses of quinine be used ; because there is frequently not time to
give enough of it in small doses, and because, too, a most powerful impression on the nervous
system is needed.
I have seen quinine used in connexion with calomel and Dover's powder in a few cases of
jjersistent continued fever of low type, in which there were no prominent localizations. The
ordinary remedies (calomel in small and repeated doses, among others) had been used in these
cases for ten or twelve days, without any beneficial results. The patients daily became more
prostrated — complaining of nothing but restlessness and general debility. The skin was at
the same time hot, the tongue dry, and the pulse small and rapid ; tlie evacuations from the
bowels of unhealthy character, but not fre(|uent. In three or four days after the use of (|uiuine,
calomel, and Dover's powder, and of other simple means, their systems were affected by the
mercury, the fever yielded, and they recovered after a protracted convalescence. Similar re-
marks will apply to some cases of typhoid dysentery which I witnessed. In these cases, I am
convinced that the quinine contributed largely to the happy issue, by causing the mercury to be
absorbed, or, by its action on the nervous centres, putting the syf '" a condition to be ope-
rated upon by the mercuiy. Explain the fact as you will ; it mil. .,„;f,i,^f. ;.orgotten that mer-
cury and other means had had a fair trial, previous to the use of quinine, without any beneficial
impression having been made on the disease.
In the above remarks, hastily thrown together, I have not, of course, attempted to point out
the range of practice applicable to the diseases of which I have spoken, but have endeavored to
confine myself to the therapeutical application of quinine in their treatment. Throughout, I
have presumed tiie general principles of the treatment of fever known, and left it to be in-
ferred that they were kept in view previous to or during the use of this medicine. My ideas
of its elficacy in the treatment of fever are, in a great measure, based upon what I saw of the
disease in Florida ; but in some degree, also, on the testimony of different medical men who
have practised in malarious regions tliroughout the country. I am not unaware of the great
changes impressed on disease by diff'erent climates and the varying constitutions of the atmo-
spliere; that the cfticacy of quinine in the treatment of Florida fevers during 1840, 1841, and
1842, may have been owing to a peculiar constitution of the air, which, by changing, would
render it valueless, and that consequently a more extended experience in different climes and
seasons may change my opinion of the value of this agent. Be it so. For the present, I
must trust to conclusions drawn from such clinical experience as I have had. These conclu-
sions, together with the circumstances under which they were drawn, I have given in honesty,
and leave it to others to judge of the value to be attached to them.
6th. I am at a loss to give any satisfactory explanation of the modus operandi of quinine.
Oy QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 687
The term tonic, sedative, or stimulant, conveys no just idea of its action. There are tonics
stimulants, and sedatives, of ten times more power in each of these modes of action than quinine,
and which yet do not produce the peculiar effects which alone render this agent valuable.
Hence, I infer that its powers are independent, at least in a great measure, of any tonic, stimu-
lant, or sedative properties which it may possess. Though classed by writers on materia medica
among tonics, I conceive that the idea of its action being merely the result of tonic or stimu-
lating properties is particularly unhappy, because it has prevented its use in malarious fevers,
where it would have been of great service — and why? Because fever, it is reasoned, is a sthenic
disease, and a tonic or stimulant certainly cannot be applicable to such a condition.
Quinine is an anti-periodic, and a species of antidote to malarious poison. If used under
proper restrictions, and with a view to these two properties, it will be found, I apprehend, not
to disappoint expectation. But the question still recurs: By what mode of action does it pro-
duce these anti-periodic and supposed specific effects? I answer, by a powerful impression made
on the nervous system; but of the nature of this impression I am ignorant. In my oiiinion, it
is not enough to say that it is a tonic or a stimulating one; for brandy and ammonia, gentian
and iron, though powerful stimulants and tonics, will not produce it. Nearly its whole force
is expended on the nervous system, and it may or may not, and generally does not, exert a very
marked influence over the vascular. It is true, this explanation is by no means as satisfactory
as could be desired. But what solution of the modus ojyerandi of any medicine is? Epsom salts
jiurges, but why? Because it irritates the muscular fibres of the intestines. But how does it
produce this irritation? By its action on the nerves distributed to these muscles. But, again:
lioiv does it act on these nerves? Brandy acts on them, and irritatively, too, one would sup-
pose; and yet, so far from purging, often checks diarrhcea. The Ao?t' here is unanswered. The
truth is, that the ultimate effects of medicines, like all ultimate causes, is buried in obscurity;
and it is better for us to be aware of our ignorance of the modus operandi of quinine, and be
content to use it for the well-known effects which experience teaches us it will produce, than to
call it a tonic, stimulant, &c., which, involving a false theory, will lead to an erroneous
practice.
7th. I do not think that large doses of quinine are more apt to produce bowel affections than
small ones ; and, indeed, I do not believe that they will produce them at all, if used with ordinary
precaution. In intermittents complicated with dysentery, I have known the discharges ren-
dered more bloody than they had been, and inci-eased in frequency, by the administration of
quinine. But I have, too, seen cases of dysentery and diarrhcea in which the bowels were so
irritable, that opium displayed only its stimulating properties, and, in place of allaying the irri-
tability, as it usually does, only increased it. Now, as I would not infer from this fact that
opium produces dysentery; so, also, I would not conclude that, because quinine will, at times,
aggravate bowel affections when they exist, it will produce them when the viscera are in a com-
paratively healthy condition. Like all medicines, quinine may be, and I feel satisfied has been,
abused. But, from its action under these circumstances, it would be erroneous to draw conclu-
sions against its judicious use. If the bowels are sound, it may, as an almost universal rule,
be used, and used freely, in large or small doses, without deranging them. The solution of
this question was surrounded with no small difliculties in Florida, and I can readily understand
how there may be wide and honest diflerences of opinion on this subject. On the one hand,
there were so very few patients who had escaped agues, and hence the use of quinine, that the
cases of diarrhoea and dysentery were rare which did not afford the opposors of quinine a hook
to hang their arguments upon. But, on the other hand, so universally and so constantly were
our patients exposed to the causes which ordinarily, of themselves, produce diarrhcea and dysen-
tery — as all kinds of exposure, indulgence in improper articles of food, the debilitation and irri-
tability which a high temperature induces in the mucous membranes of the digestive organs, the
operation of malaria, &c. — that it was, except in rare instances, almost impossible to say that a
diarrhcea or a dysentery was caused by the use of quinine, and not by the causes just enumerated.
688 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION
Again, patients should be under the physician's observation for months, to enable him to de-
termine with any degree of certainty the question at issue. But, owing to the frequent changes
of station of the medical othcer, and of the commands with which he served, this could rarely he
accomplished. I have more than once selected a number of i'ever cases, and treated them with
and without quinine, for the purpose of determining the influence of this medicine in causing
diarrhoeas and dysenteries ; but the causes I have already enumerated ])revented me from arri-
ving at numerical results. I can only give it as my general impression, that quinine may be
used freely and in large doses, if administered judiciously, without giving rise to disease of the
abdominal viscera.
But your circular states, that since the practical introduction of quinine in large doses, the
statistics of the Medical Bureau exhibit a much higher ratio of diseases of the bowels, &c. The
medical philosopher is, of course, cautious of reasoning from the post hoc, ergo propter hoc. The
coincidence mentioned in the circular may have arisen from more than one cause. No fact is
more fully confirmed by an enlarged observation, than that disease changes its type in a curri-
culum of years, and expends its force on different systems of organs at different times. The
remarks contained in lecture 18th of Graves's Clinical Lectures are peculiarly pertinent to this
subject. May not a change in the constitution of the air in Florida have given rise to the diar-
rhceal and dysenteric tendency which has been observable since 1840?
When I entered Florida, in the fall of 1838, diarrhoea and dysentery were comparatively
rare, and of easy management; such continued to be the case, as far as my observation extended,
until the summer and fall of 1840. At this period, fevers became vastly more prevalent than
they had been previously, owing, in part, to a succession of rainy and dry weather, and in part,
I suppose, to an epidemic disposition of the air. Compare, for example, the quarterly sick-
reports of Forts Micanopy and King, during 1840 and 1841, with the reports of tlie same jwsts
during the year ])revious; bearing in mind that only cases of fever occurring at these posts, and
not brought to them from other localities, should be taken into the account. This comparison
will, I feel satisfied, sustain my assertion. If we compare Florida in 1840 and 1841 with its
condition in previous years, it will be found that its soil has been imdergoing, in many sections
of the Territory at least, a process of drying, to such a great extent, that roads were constantly
seen, in 1840 and 1841, high and dry, and all the country around them dry throughout the year,
which commanders were compelled to causeway for miles, in the early part of the war, in order
to afford a passage for wagons. Now, all writers agree that the evolution of malaria and pre-
valence of fever are coincident with this process of drying; so that the fact which I have men-
tioned may, to some extent, explain the increase of fever in 1840 and 1841. Now we know
how intimately the cause of malarious fevers is connected with the production of diarrhoea and
dysentery. Where the former prevails, the latter are almost invariably found to exist. Why,
therefore, should we be surprised that diarrhoea and dysentery should have increased in 1840
and 1841, and become more fatal than they had been previously? Why charge a result on
quinine, when other well-known causes, sufficiently powerful to produce it, were in operation?
Up to the fall of 1840, as I have already said, I found diarrhoeas and dysenteries very amenable
to treatment. At this period I was ordered from Micanopy to Fort King ; and here, for the
first time, I met with cases of these diseases which were very obstinate, and would not yield to
the treatment which I had previously employed with invariable success in similar cases. Now,
in the first place, bowel affections were not formerly obstinate at Fort King; secondly, the use
of quinine in large doses had not, at this time, been introduced into Florida, nor was it generally
given in any other cases than intermittent ; and, thirdly, the command at Fort King had been
under the care of Assistant Surgeon Moore, who was then, at least, and may be now, rather
averse to the use of quinine, and a believer in its noxious influence on the bowels. Hence, I
infer that the obstinate bowel affections I met with at Fort King could not have been produced
by quinine ; and yet the increase and intractable character of these diseases dated, in my ex-
perience at least, from this very period, and were cotemporaneous with increase of fever. Now,
OP QUININE IN LARGE DOSES. 689
while I will not deny that quinine was often abused in Florida, during 1841, and that bowel
affections might (but of this I will not be positive, though I will not deny it) at times be traced
to this abuse, yet I cannot shut my eyes to the facts, that malarious fevers and bowel aifections
often owe their origin to one cause; that the increase of fever and bowel affections in 1840, &c. ,
went pari passu; and, finally, that diarrhoea and dysentery commenced being more frequent
and obstinate before quinine was used, either largely or in large doses, in Florida. Nor must it
be forgotten, that length of exposure alone to the heat of the south, to the fatigues undergone,
&c., must have rendered the mucous membrane of the bowels more irritable and obnoxious to
disease. Hence, the longer troops remain in the south, within a period of four or five years,
the more frequent, axteris paribus, may we expect dysentery to be.
On the whole, then, I am disposed to think that much of the outcry against quinine is the
result of preconceived notions. Among the older physicians, bark and enlargement of the liver
and spleen were inseparable companions; so were dysentery, and organically or functionally
diseased liver; hence the transition was easy to the conclusion that the use of quinine would
produce dysentery. This is a part of those doctrines which taught, among other things, that
bark is more efficacious in the treatment of fever than quinine. Now, all these doctrines may
be true, but I have yet to see the demonstration of their truth.
8th. The effects of the climate of Florida are, an increase of the nervous excitability, impair-
ment of the powers of the digestive organs, and a general feeling of feebleness, not inaptly ex-
pressed by the terms enervated or relaxed. Such are the results in the healthy portion of the
country. When malaria is added (and it very generally is) to the high degree of temperature,
malarious fevers in all their varieties of intermittent, remittent, continued, and congestive,
together with diarrhcea and dysentery, are induced. Nine-tenths, if not a greater proportion
of the diseases of Florida, may be ranged under one or other of these heads.
Liver affections are, I think, of rare occurrence in Florida, if we except the trifling functional
derangements which are met with in fever. The temperature is not sufficiently high, and uni-
formly so, to produce them with any degree of frequency. This fact receives confirmation from
the remarks made by Johnson, in his work on tropical climates, under the head of " hepatic affec-
tions."* My dissections, too, confirm this conclusion; for I rarely met with any other (to me)
appreciable deviation from the natural condition of the liver than the fatty degeneration conse-
quent upon a life of intemperance.
From the fact that quinine was largely used in Florida, and that I rarely met with diseased
livers, enlarged spleens, or dropsies consequent upon fevers, I must acquit this drug of the
charge often brought against it, of inducing these affections. When they do exist, 1 am more
inclined to attribute them to the depleting means often too liberally employed (dropsies), to the
continued action of malaria, and to repetition of paroxysms of fever, which should have been
checked at once hj some anti-periodic.
If epidemics show a strong tendency to fasten upon some particular organ, physicians evince
an equally strong one to follow their example. Until lately, the liver has nearly filled up the
pathological anatomy of some physicians of our country, and calomel their therapeutics. So
often have I seen patients drugged for bile and liver affections, where none existed; so very
rarely have I seen unequivocally diseased livers in dead bodies, that I look with suspicion on
those cases so often spoken of under the vague terms of hepatic derangements and congested
livers. Nor do I extend to them a greater share of confidence when they are reported in con-
nexion with the use of quinine, and said to exist as a pretty constant cause or part of dysen-
tery. f These notions are so much opposed to my own observation, and savor so strongly of
*" See his comparison between the coast of Coromamlel iiud the plain.s of Bengal.
f I might remark that the curative influence of mercury over dysentery (confessedly great), can be explained on more
satisfactory principles than by its action on the liver. Mercury cures sclerotitis and iritis, but hardly, I suppose, by acting
on the liver. I have opened many bodies dead of dysentery, but have seen few diseased livers.
S. 96 S7
690 REPORTS ON THE ADMINISTRATION OF QUININE IN LARGE DOSES.
the theories prevalent some ten or fifteen years ago, that I ciiiinot but receive them witli many
grains of aHowance.
I oannot pronounce upon the value of quinine in the treatment of enlarged spleens, as I have
had very few cases of this affection under my management. I have not given it a fair trial in
these cases, nor in neuralgic rlieumatisius.
To sum up: I think tiiat quinine should not be used in the open inflammatory stage of any
fever, no matter how long this stage may last; that it is jmrticularly efficacious in the treat-
ment of malarious fevers only, and when some intermissit)n, or pretty fair remission, can he
obtained; that it maybe given in large doses, if administered under proper circumstances,
with as much impunity as in small ones; that it is generally a matter of no consequence in
what doses it is administered in simple intermittents and remittents, provided from ten to
twenty grains are given within a certain period of the expected paroxysm; that the large doses
possess advantages in some few cases of remittents and intermittents; that the introduction of
quinine in the treatment of the remittents of Florida was a great improvement on the old
plan, in which it was neglected; that in congestive fevers, large doses are of great importance,
and often cannot be replaced without danger by small ones; that quinine shoidd be used with
a view to its anti-periodic effects, and its specific influence in cases of malarious poisoning, and
not merely as a tonic, &c.; and, finally, that if judiciously used, it may be given freely, and in
large doses, without producing disease of the abdominal viscera.
In conclusion, I will take leave to disclaim all ex parte feeling on the subjects I have treated.
Where such wide differences of opinion exist as do on the questions which have been discussed,
a writer must lean to some side. I am very far from believing that quinine was not used in
Florida without discretion by its ultra advocates. But I am equally convinced that it was often
neglected by another class of physicians, when it might have been used with advantage.
Perhaps it will be but proper for me to state, that I am by no means so fully satisfied with
the truth of the conclusions given in this communication as not to make me desire further
opportunities of testing their truth.
In further illustration of my views respecting the use of quinine, I will refer to an article
contained in a number of the American Journal of Medical Science, about 1841, by Dr. Pether-
bridge, (I think it is — I have not a file of this journal by me,) and to another in the July num-
ber of the same journal, for 1843, by Dr. Parry.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. BYRNE,
Assistant Surgeon U. S. Army.
Dr. Thomas Lawson,
Surgeon General U. S. Army.
NOTE
The principal objects oftlie Surgeon (xeiieral in causing tliis report to be prepared were two-
fold : first, to encourage in the medical officers the habit of observing and recording facts in
medicine and the collateral sciences ; and second, to bring them into more direct communion
with the medical profession in civil life, by adding their contributions to the general stores of
knowledge.
It is due to the medical staff, as a body, to state that this and other reports which have ema-
nated from the Medical Bureau, by no means fully represent the extent of their contributions to
science. Within a few years past, the medical officers have been called upon to co-operate with
the Smithsonian Institution, in collecting specimens of the fauna of this country, and the Sur-
geon General takes pleasure in being able to state that the museum of that Institution has been
materially extended and enriched by their voluntary contributions. They have also been in-
vited to aid Professor Ehrenberg in his work on "Fluvial Deposits," by collecting specimens
of mud and silt from the banks and beds of rivers ; and to assist Professor Agassiz in obtaining
specimens of fish, particularly from New Mexico, California, and Oregon. The responses to
tliese invitations have been such as to elicit the acknowledgments and thanks of those learned
professors.
CONTENTS.
CONTENTS.
Page.
Keport of the Secretary of War 3
Letter of the Surgeon General to the Secretary of War, transmitting a copy of this report 3
Letter of Assistant Surgeon Coolidge to the Surgeon General, respecting the general plan and arrangement of the
details of this report 4
Imtrodcction - 7
NOKTHERN DIVISION.
NouTH Atlantic Region — Coast of New England 9
Fort Preble - 9
Fort Constitution - -- 9
Fort Independence 9
Fort Adams - 10
Fort Trumbull 10
Diseases occurring among the troops on the coast of New England — 10
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes 11
2. From fevers 12
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 13
i. From diseases of the respiratory system. 13
NOKTH Atlantic Region — Neic York Harbor 1-t
Fort Columlnis.— Report of Surgeon S. G. I. DeCamp - 11
Fort Wood. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Josiah Simpson 15
Fort Hamilton. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Joseph Eaton - 16
Diseases occurring among the troops in New York Harbor - -. 18
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes. 18
2. From fevers - 19
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 20
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 21
NOBTii Intekior Region — East of the Great Lakes 21
Fort Kent. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Alexander S. Wotherspoon 22
Fort Fairfield.— Report of Assistant Surgeon Richard H. Coolidge 28
Hancock Barracks 29
Hattsburg Barracks - 30
Watervliet Arsenal 3"
West Point •*"
Diseases occurring among the cadets and tj-oops at West Point 30
Tables exliibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality ;
1. From all causes -- ^^
2. From fevers - - ^^
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 32
4. From diseases of the respiratory system - — 33
696 CONTENTS.
Page.
NoETU Interior Region — East of the Great Ixikcs :
Diseases occurring amonp; the troops in tlie Nortli Interior Region — East of the Great Lakes.. 33
Table exhibiting the ratio of siclcness and mortality :
1 . From allcauses - 33
2. From fevers - - 34
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 35
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 35
Reoion of the Great Lakes 36
Madison Barraclis. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Thomas Henderson 36
Fort Ontario 40
Fort Niagara 40
Buffalo Barracks 40
Detroit Barrack s.. - 41
Fort Gratiot 41
Fort Mackinac 41
Fort Brady 42
Fort Wilkins. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Charles E. Isaacs - 42
Fort Howard - 44
Diseases occurring among the troops in the Region of the Great Lakes - - 45
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes 45
2. From fevers - ..... 45
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 46
4. From diseases of the respiratory system - 47
North Interior Region — West of the Great Lakes 47
Fort Winnebago. — Report of Surgeon Lyman Foot 47
Fort Crawford 49
Fort Snelling - 49
Fort Atkinson 49
Fort Dodge. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Charles C. Keeney ., 50
Fort Ripley. — Report of Assistant Surgeon J. Frazier Head 57
Fort Ridgely. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Alexander B. Hasson 66
Fort Kearny 75
Fort Laramie - 76
Diseases occurring among the troops in the North Interior Region — West of the Great Lakes 76
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes 76
2. From fevers "7
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 78
4 From diseases of the respiratory system 81
Abstracts of the principal diseases and deaths in the Northern Division 83
No. 1. Abstracts for tlie North Atlantic Region — Coast of New England 84
No. 2. Abstracts for the North Atlantic Region — Harbor of New York 92
No. 3. Abstracts for West Point, New York 100
No. 4. Abstracts for the North Interior Region — East of the Great Lalces 108
No. 5. Abstracts for the Region of the Great Lakes 116
No. 6. Abstracts for the North Interior Region — ^West of the Great Lalies 124
MIDDLE DIVISION.
Middle Atlantic Reg ion 133
Frankford Arsenal - 133
Wasliington Arsenal 133
Fort Mifflin 133
Fort McHenry 133
Fort Severn 134
Fort Washington. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Lewis A. Edwards - 134
Fort Monroe. — Report of Surgeon Henry A. Stinnecke 137
Diseases occurring among the troops in the Middle Atlantic Region ...= 145
CONTENTS. 697
Page.
Middle Atlantic IIegiox :
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes 145
2. From fevers - -. - - 146
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 146
4. From diseases of the respiratory system - 147
Middle Interior Region — East -- -- 147
Carlisle Barracks - -- -- - - - 147
A'leghany Arsenal - 148
Newport Barracks 148
Diseases occurring among the troops at Carlisle Barracks and Alleghany Arsenal 148
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes — - 148
2. From fevers. 149
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 149
4. From diseases of the respiratory system . - 150
Di-eases occurring among the troops at Newjiort Barracks. 150
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes 151
2. From fevers - - - 151
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system - 152
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 154
Middle Interior Region — West :
Jefferson Barracks. — Report of Surgeon S. G. I. DeCamp. 154
St. Louis Arsenal. — Report of Surgeon S. G. I. DeCamp 155
Diseases occurring among the troops at Jefferson Barracks and St. Louis Arsenal 156
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes 156
2. From fevers.. - ^56
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 157
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 158
Fort Leavenworth '■•^°
Fort Scott. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Joseph K. Barnes 158
Fort Atkinson. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Aquila T. Ridgely 163
Fort Riley. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Joseph K. Barnes 167
Diseases occurring among the troops in the Middle Interior Region — West 168
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes -. - 1°°
2. From fevers 168
3. From discivses of the organs coimected with the digestive system -- 169
4. From diseases of the respiratory system - I'O
Abstracts op the princip.il dtse.4.ses and de.^^ths in the MroDLE Division I'l
No. 1. Abstracts for the Middle Atlantic Region - 1^2
No. 2. Abstracts for the Middle Interior Region— East. - - 180
No. 3. Abstracts for Newport Barracks, Kentucky - '88
No. 4. Abstracts for Jefferson Barracks and St. Louis Arsenal 192
No. 5. Abstracts for the Middle Interior Region— West *00
SOUTHERN DIVISION.
209
South Atlastic Region
Fort Macon - ^®'
Fort Johnston
209
Oglethorpe Barracks - -
Fort Moultrie.— Report of Surgeon John B. Porter 209
Diseases occurring among the troops in the South Atlantic Region 250
S. 96 88
698 CONTENTS.
Page
South Atlantic Keg ion :
Tables exhibiting the ratio of Bickness aud mortality :
1. From all causes - 250
2. From fevers -- - 250
3. From diseases of the organs connected witli the digestive system 251
4. From diseases of the respiratory system - 251
SouTn Intekior Eegion — Ao. 1 252
Fort JcBup. — Report of Surgeon P. H. Craig - 252
Baton Kouge Barracks. — Report of Surgeon Benjamin F. Harney - 253
New Orleans Barraclis. — Report of Surgeon H. L. Hawkins 254
Forts Pike aud Wood 255
Moimt Vernon and Augusta Arsenals - 256
Diseases occurring among the troops in the South Interior Region — No. 1 256
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sicknees and mortality :
1. From all causes 256
2. From fevers -- -- 257
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 260
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 2G5
South Interior Region — No. 2 266
Fort Smith - 266
Fort Gibson. — Report of Assistant Surgeon R. H. Coolidge - 266
Fort Wayne - -- 270
FortTowson - - 270
Fort Washita. — Report of Assistant Surgeon T. C. Madison 270
Fort Arbuckle. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Rodney Glisan 272
Diseases occurring among the troops in the South Interior Region — No. 2 277
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sicliness and mortality :
1 . From all causes . 277
2. From fevers 278
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 279
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 281
Abstracts of the principal diseases and deaths in the Southern Division 283
No. 1. Abstracts for the South Atlantic Region 284
No. 2. Abstracts for the South Interior— East - 292
No. 3. Abstracts for the South Interior— West 300
F L K I D A .
Thb Atlantic Coast of Florida S09
Fort Marion 309
Camp, near New Smyrna. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Robert Southgate Sll
Fort Pierce 321
Fort Dallas 322
Key West Barracks - 322
Diseases occurring among the troops on the Atlantic Coast of Florida 322
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all cau,ses.. 322
2. From fevers 323
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 324
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 324
GtiLr Coast or Fmiuda 324
Barrancas Barracks. — Report of Assistant Surgeon John F. Hammond 325
Fort Brooke - 329
Fort Meade. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Jonathan Letherman 330
Fort Myers - 334
Diseases occurring among the troops on the Gulf Coast of Florida 334
CONTENTS. 699
rage.
Guip Coast of Florida :
Tables cxiiibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all eauses 334
2. From fevers 334
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 337
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 338
AeSTBACTS of the PKDiCIPAL mSEASES AND DEATIIS IX FlOKIDA - 539
No. 1. Abstracts for the Atlantic Coast of Florida 340
No. 2. Abstracts for the Gulf Coast of Florida - - 344
TEXAS.
SODTHEEN FeOKTIEK 349
Corpus Christi _ 349
Fort Ewell. — Eeport of Assistant Surgeon J. Frazier Head 349
Fort Merrill. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Israel Moses 352
Fort Brown. — Report of Surgeon S. P. Moore 353
Ringgold Barracks. — Report of Assistant Surgeoi Israel Moses 357
Fort Mcintosh. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Glover Perin 360
Fort Duncan 364
Diseases occurring among the troops on the Southern Frontier of Texas 364
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes 364
2. From fevers.. 365
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 366
4. From diseases of the respiratory system. „ 369
Westebn Frontier - 369
Fort Graham - - 370
Fort Gates 370
Fort Croghan 370
Austin 370
San Antonio - 370
Forts Mason, Martin Scott, Lincoln, Inge, and Clark. 371
Fort Davis 371
Fort Belknap. — Eeport of Assistant Surgeon E. J. Baily 371
Fort Worth. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Thomas H. Williams 373
Post on Clear Fork of Brazos river. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Alexander B. Hasson 375
Camp J. E. Johnston. — Report of Assistant Smgcon Ebenezer Swift 378
Fort McKavett. — Report of Assistant Surgeon S. Wylie Crawford - -- 386
Fort Terrett. — Eeport of Assistant Surgeon W. W. Anderson 393
Diseases occurring among the troops on the Western Frontier of Texas 397
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1 . From all causes 397
2 . From fevers 397
3. F'rom di.seases of the organs connected with the digestive system 398
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 401
Abstracts of tue PRiNcirAi. diseases and deaths in Texas 403
No. 1. Abstracts for the Southern Frontier of Texas.. 404
No. 2. Abstracts for the Western Frontier of Texas 408
NEW MEXICO.
Fort Massachusetts, Cantonment Burgwin, Taos, Abiquiu, and Fort Union 413
Santa Fe, Las Vegas, Cebolleta, Laguna, Albuquerque, and Fort Craig 413
Fort Thorn, Fort Webster, Dona Ana, Fort Fillmore, and Fort Bliss 414
Fort Conrad. — Report of Assistant Surgeon E. P. Langworthy . 414
Socorro. — Report of Assistant Surgeon J. F. Hammond 419
700 CONTENTS.
Page.
Fort Defiance. ^Report of Assistant Surgeon W. J. H. White 425
Diseases oocmrinj; among the troops in New Jlexico 427
Tables exhibiting tlie ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. rroni :ill causes. 427
2. From fevers.. 428
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system - 428
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 429
Abstracts of the principal diseases and deaths in New Mexico 431
CALIFORNIA.
SoirrHERN Division 437
Fort Yuma 437
San Diego. — Report of Assistant Surgeon John E. Summers. 438
San Luis Rey, Rancho del Chino, and Rancho de Jurupa 439
Monterey. — Report of Assistant Surgeon W. S. King 439
Fort Miller 445
Diseases occurring among the troops In Southern California 446
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes 446
2. From fevers 446
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 447
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 447
NoBTHERX Division 447
Presidio of San Francisco and Sonoma 447
Benicia Barracks. — Report of Assistant Surgeon John S. Griffin _ 448
Camp Far West 449
Fort Reading. — Report of Assistant Surgeon John F. Hammond 449
Fort Jones. 452
Fort Humboldt 452
Disea.ses occurring among the troops in Northern California., 452
Tables exhiliiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1 . From all causes 452
2. From fevers 453
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 453
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 458
AnentAcrs of the prixcip.\l dlse.^ses and deaths i.v California . 459
No. 1. Abstracts for Southern California 460
No. 2. Abstracts for Northern California 464
OEEGON AND WASHINGTON TERRITORIES.
Fort Vancouver 469
Astoria. — Report of Assistant Surgeon Israel Moses 469
Fort Dalles _ 477
Cantonment Loring 478
Fort Steilacoom. Report of Assistant Surgeon J. M. Haden 478
Diseases occurring among the troops in Oregon and Washington Territories 481
Tables exhibiting the ratio of sickness and mortality :
1. From all causes 481
2. From fevers •. 481
3. From diseases of the organs connected with the digestive system 482
4. From diseases of the respiratory system 482
Abstracts of the principal diseases and deaths in Oregon and Washington Territories 4S3
CONTENTS. 701
ABSTEACTS, TABLES, ETC.
Page.
Consolidated abstract of the principal diseases and deaths occurring in the army of tlie United States 488
Consolidated table exhibiting the amount and annual ratio of sickness and mortality for each region 494
Consolidated table exhibiiing the amount and annual ratio of sickness and mortality in each region, from fevers.. 494
Consolidated table exhibiting the amount and annual ratio of sickness and mortality in each region, from diseases
of the digestive system 495
Consolidited taljle exhibiting the amount and annual ratio of sickness and mortality in each region, from diseases
of the respiratory system 495
Consolidated table exhibiting the amount and ratio of sickness and mortality in the several regions, from phthisis
pulmonalls 496
Bemarks on consumption 497
METEOROLOGY.
List of the military posts, with their geographical positions 498
Consolidated tables and summaries. — Temperature series -. 509
Series of monthly and annual measurements of rain. 560
Summaries of observations on winds and weather 591
STATISTICS OF THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
Introductory remarks 605
Abstract (No. 1) exhibiting, by regiments, the statistics of commissioned officers serving in the army of the
United States during the war with Mexico 607
Abstract (No. 2) exhibiting, by regiments, the statistics of enlisted men serving in the army of the United States
during the war with Mexico 608
Table exhibiting the aggregate number of regulars and volunteers employed during the war, with their .iverage
duration of service, and the casualties incident to each description of forces 610
Eeturn of the killed, wounded, and died of wounds, of the regular army, in the several conflicts with Mexican
troops in 1846 611
Kecapitulation of loss in battle of the regular army in the campaign of 1846 612
Eeturn of the killed, wounded, and died of wounds, of the regular army, in the several conflicts with Mexican
troops in 1847 - - 613
Loss (regular army) in incidental affairs and skirmishes with the enemy in 1847 615
Kecapitulation of loss in battle of the regular army, in the campaign of 1847 616
General return of the number of commissioned officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, artificers, and pri-
vates, of volunteers killed and wounded, or died of wounds, in the several conflicts with the Mexican troops,
in the year 1846 617
General return of the number of commissioned officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, artificers, and pri-
vates, of volunteers killed and wounded, or died of wounds, in the several conflicts with the Mexican troops,
in the year 1847.. 618
Loss (volunteers) in incidental affairs and skirmishes with the enemy in 1847 619
Recapitulation of loss in battle ol the volunteer forces in the campaign of 1847 621
STATISTICS OF THE RECRUITING SERVICE.
Organization of the army of the United States 625
Table of recruits enlisted from 1849 to 1854 625
Table of recruits enlisted and rejected in 1852, with the causes of rejection - - 626
Table showing the nativity of 5 UOO recruits enlisted in 1850 and 1851 627
Table showing the nativity of 5,000 recruits enlisted in 1847 (war) 628
Table showing the nationality of 10,000 recruits, with the numbers passed and rejected, respectively 628
Table showing the causes of rejection in the cases of 5,000 rejected recruits, native and foreign, arranged in classes
of 1,000 for each nation - 629
Table showing the occupations of 8,000 recruits, arranged in classes of 1,000 each, v/ith the numbers, respectively,
passed and rejected 630
702 CONTENTS.
Page,
Table showing the causes of rejection in each trade or occupation C31
Table showing the occupations anil professions from wliicli recruits are obtained, arranged in three classes (Ameri-
can, Britisli, and Europeans) of 1,000 each 631
Table showing the average age of recruits, native and foreign 632
Table showing the comparative physical development of native and foreign recruits 632
Table giving a minute physical description of 1,800 American recruits, 100 from each State represented 633
Table showing, in 8,000 civscs, the final disposition of the recruit, so far as the military service is concerned 633
APPENDIX.
Remarks on the Florida war 637
Eemarks respecting tlie introduction into the army of the practice of giving quinine in large doses C37
Report of Assistant Surgeon Charles McCormick, on the administration of quinine in large doses 638
Surgeon General's Circular of August 14, 1843, in regard to the practice of administering " quinine in very large
doses" - 644
Beports in reply to the Surgeon General's Circular.
Report of Surgeon Benjamin F. Harney 645
Report of Surgeon Richard S. Satterlee 646
Report of Surgeon Kobert C. Wood _ 647
Report of Surgeon Burton Randall 649
Report of Assistant Surgeon (Surgeon) J. J. B. Wright. _ 649
Report of Assistant Surgeon (Surgeon) Bernard M. Byrne 656
Report of Assistant Surgeon (Surgeon) Charles McCormick- - 660
Report of Assistant Sm-geon Joseph H. Bailey - -- 669
Report of Assistant Surgeon David C. De Leon - 672
Report of Assistant Surgeon Thomas C. Madiscn 677
Report of Assistant Surgeon Richard F. Simpson 678
Report of Assistant Surgeon John Byrne --. 682
REPORTS, AND EXTRACTS FROM REPORTS, ON SPECIAL DISEASES.
Cholera Asiatica.
Surgeon S. G. I. DeCamp — Fort Columbus _ 20
Assistant Surgeon Edward W. Johns — Fort Columbus 20
Surgeon John M. Cuyler — West Point 32
Surgeon Charles S. TYipler — Detroit Barracks , 46
Assistant Surgeon R. F. Simpson — Fort Howard 46
Assistant Surgeon William Hammond, jr. — Fort Kearny 78
Surgeon S. P. Moore — Fort Laramie 79
Assistant Surgeon G. K. Wood — Fort Laramie 80
Surgeon Henry A. Stinnecke — Fort Monroe 14,1
Surgeons. G. I. DeCamp — (.'arlisle Barracks 150
Surgeon C. Finley — Newport Barracks 152
Assistant Surgeon B. M. Byrne — Newport Barracks 153
Surgeon W. V. Wheaton — Jefferson Barracks 157
Surgeon Charles McDougall — Fort Leavenworth 169
Assistant Surgeim Charles McCormick — New Orleans 261
Assistant Surgeon J. U. Bailey — Fort Smith 279
Surgeon J. B. Wells — Fort Gibson 280
Acting Assistant Surgeon N. Spring — Fort Smith 280
Assistant Surgeon E. H. Abadie — Fort Polk 366
Surgeon N. S. Jarvis — Fort Brown 367
Assistant Surgeon N. L. Campbell — Ringgold Barracks -. 368
Surgeon Madison Mills — 8th regiment infantry, Texas 398
Surgeon J. J. B. Wright — San Antonio, Texas 399
Assistant Surgeon L II. Stone — Camp Salado, Texas 399
Surgeon Charles S. Tripler — 4 thin fant ry 454
CONTENTS. 703
Page.
Febris Typhus Iclerodes.
Surgeon John B. Porter — Fort Moultrie 209
Assistant Surgeon Thomas A. McParlin — East Panca^'oula, Mississippi 257
Surgeon John B. Porter — Fort Marion 310
Assistant Surgeon Eichard F. Simpson — Key West BarracliS ... 323
Assistant Surgeon John F. Hammond — Barrancas Barraclis 325
Surgeon Samuel P. Moore — Fort Brown 353
Catarrhvs Epidemicus.
Pages 10, 11, 21, 33, 3S, 47,81, 147, loO, 158, 170, 251, 2C5, 429
Bcwhutus.
Pages 82, 360, 361, 369, 401, 429, 445
IR. \
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