Martial Deeds of Pennsylvania, Samuel P. Bates, 1876 - Part 3, Chapter 3, 1023- 1040 Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Judy Banja jbanja@msn.com and transcribed by Judy Banja, Judith Bookwalter, Cyndie Enfinger, Linda Horn, Margaret Long, Patricia Martz, Barbara Milhalcik, Leah Waring and Marjorie B. Winter Copyright 2003. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/pafiles.htm ________________________________________________ MARTIAL DEEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA by SAMUEL P. BATES. PHILADELPHIA: T. H. DAVIS & CO., 1876. MARTIAL DEEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA - 1023 PART III. CIVIL AND MISCELLANEOUS. CHAPTER III. THE UNION VOLUNTEER REFRESHMENT SALOON of Philadelphia, a name dear to many a soldier in the late war, originated in an humble but generous impulse of humanity and patriotism. As the troops began to move towards the National Capital, in response to the call of the President, it was seen that by the time they had reached Philadelphia, journeying from New England, New York, and States from the West, and even from parts nearer, they needed some rest, nutritious food, warm drink, and a spark of the humanizing influence which comes from a generous deed. The Sixth Massachusetts, which had been quartered at the Girard House, was joined by Colonel Small's regiment, and these, in Baltimore, were attacked by the mob, some killed, several wounded, and the road destroyed, cutting off further travel by that route. After this, troops were compelled to go by Annapolis. As there was delay in moving, at first they were fed upon the street, or taken into the houses of people living in the neighborhood of the Baltimore Depot, on Broad street. The offering was from the heart, many bestowing from their own scanty stores, one poor woman giving away all her customers' milk. Seeing that the calls were becoming frequent, and recognizing the pressing necessity of allowing none to pass uncared for, Mr. Bazilla S. Brown gave notice that he would receive contributions of material for this purpose, and with eleven pounds of coffee, he commenced the work of dispensing from a table improvised from boards wrenched from a neighboring fence. Thus humble were the beginnings of this noble charity. Those who were active in the work were laboring men and could ill afford to lose time and sleep in waiting and watching. MARTIAL DEEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA - 1024 Accordingly, by an arrangement with the railroad companies, the coming of troops was telegraphed, so that preparations could be duly timed. The first notice was of the Eight New York, 800 strong, to arrive at three o'clock on the morning of the 28th of May, 1861. On the back of this telegram Mr. Paul I. Field wrote to Mr. Arad Barrows: "The bearer of this, Mr. B. S. Brown, is in every way responsible. If you will lend him the kettle he wants I will guarantee its safe return." The kettle was duly delivered from the establishment of Messrs. Savery & Co., and the regiment, which was that of Colonel Blenker, received refreshment on Washington Avenue, possession being taken of a vacant boat-house in the neighborhood for making the necessary preparations. This building on the 1st of June was leased, and appropriately fitted. The lease stood in the name of Mr. B. S. Brown, and an organization was effected, known as the Volunteer Refreshment Saloon, subsequently changed to the Union Volunteer Refreshment Saloon. A few days later another huge boiler with ovens, so that a moving column of large proportions could be quickly supplied. That every soldier might enjoy the luxury of a free ablution, the Fairmount water was led into the building, and a long line of bowls provided where soap and snowy napkins were plentifully supplied. With every body of troops whether going to or from the field, were always some languishing, often too sick to pursue their journey. To accommodate such, a hospital-the very first to be established in any part of the country-was opened, over which Dr. Eliab Ward presided, giving his services through the entire war without reward other than that which follows a good deed incited by a pure motive. This was provided with drugs and medicines gratuitously contributed, and furnished with comfortable cots. Books, periodicals, and papers were supplied, and noble, kind-hearted women volunteered their services, leaving comfortable homes by day and by night, to minister to the weary and war-worn soldiers. Nearly eleven thousand sick and wounded in the progress of the war was nursed, and received medical attendance, nearly twice that number had their wounds dress, and over forty thousand had a night's lodging. UNION VOLUNTEER REFRESHMENT SALOON - 1025 "The Soldier here, upon his wistful way From Peace to War (sad contrast), paused an hour; Just near enough to death to own his sway- Just far enough from home to feel its power: "This nicely-balanced moment found the word And work of solace ready for his heart; A thousand cups rose reeking on the board As by the touch of the magician's art. "The care-worn matron, at the signal's call, Gave her own breakfast to that mother's son Who'd left behind a thousand miles his all, While she who bore him gravely urged him on." The charities of this institution were not confined to soldiers actually in the service of the Union Army, but were extended to more than fifteen thousand Southern refugees, deserters from the rebel army, and freedmen. For many of the latter employment was found. The necessities of the association soon outgrew the building first taken, and additions were made until a space 95 by 150 feet was covered, the Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Baltimore Railway leasing the ground and refusing any compensation. In its enlarged dimensions 1200 men could be supplied at once, and 15,000 have been received in a single day. Deaths occurred among its guests, and a ground was secured where about fifty of the number lie buried. An accurate record was kept of all its operations, and the books show that over 800,000 soldiers were received and 1,025,000 meals were furnished-figures the significance of which we can scarcely comprehend. What a charity was this! How prompt in its inception! How broad in its bounty! How self-sacrificing and tireless in its execution! In summing up its results we are led to consider the great expense which must have attended operations on so grand a scale, and to inquire whence came the funds. The cost, in consequence of the judicious management of its finances, was very moderate, the entire amount of money expended being but $98,204.34, and material estimated at $30,000-an aggregate of $128,204.34; and of this sum nothing came from any public treasury. When it was seen that a great work was being done, the city government signified its willingness to appropriate; but the managers decline the proffer, preferring to depend upon the free-will offerings of the people. It was only necessary to make known that MARTIAL DEEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA - 1026 money or material was wanting, and they flowed in abundance into its coffers. Festivals were given for which contributions came from the city and the rich campaign contiguous, extending to New Jersey and Delaware, and from which the receipts were generous. On the occasion of the Strawberry Festival held in June, 1862, bountiful supplies of flowers, cakes, bread, butter, fruit and meats were received; released prisoners from the steamship Union brought a flag made in the jail at Salisbury; and thirty-four ladies from New Jersey, headed by ex- Senator Savery, came bringing a grand bouquet in acknowledgment of the care of wounded Jerseymen. There were 36,000 ticket-holders, an evidence of the hearty cooperation which the citizens of Philadelphia accorded to this enterprise. Entertainments of various kinds were given at places of amusement in its aid, and the direct subscriptions of wealthy citizens were frequent. But the most generous and princely gift was that of the time, and even the life-current, of the attendants. Many of them, after laboring at their regular occupations of the whole day, would spend a part of the night, often rising at the dead hour at the call of the signal gun, and, ministering to the tired, worn soldier, send him on his way with a glad heart. Women who had already passed the limit of an ordinary life were found daily at their posts lending a strong, willing hand to the good work. The method of conducting the Saloon is a matter of interest. A correspondent of the Boston Journal, of November 19th, 1861, thus writes: "It is a spacious building and divided into a dining-room, store-room, and a large apartment for cooking. The walls of the main apartment are hung with very pretty paintings, engravings, and cards neatly designed, having inscriptions: 'Welcome to the brave Volunteers.' 'The city of Philadelphia invites you to her hospitality, and bids you God-speed on your way to the Union army." "Be brave; your deeds for liberty will never die.' 'You have the prayers of all honest, loyal hearts for your success in arms, and a safe return to your friends, crowned with honor and glory.' . . . The rooms are open at all hours, with dishes on the tables and fuel under the boilers. When a regiment leaves Jersey City a telegram is sent to Philadelphia and a cannon is immediately fired to inform the citizens that UNION VOLUNTEER REFRESHMENT SALOON - 1027 soldiers are on the way. When the men are within a few miles of the city another gun is fired, which brings out those who wait upon the tables. The ladies who attend to the soldiers are true women in every sense of the word. Their constant endeavor is to show the soldier that they love the great principles of our government, and that they also love every brave volunteer who goes forth to defend them. When they see a soldier who appears homesick or low- spirited, no false dignity prevents them from going up to him and cheering him with kind and loving words. Let no cold-hearted critic say that this is a wrong method of procedure. We must respect our soldiers, and the more we impress upon their minds the idea that we love them, the higher will be their standard of action, and the braver their deeds upon the field of battle. . . . In the hospital room of the main building there is a large table covered with writing materials, where the soldiers can prepare letters while the trains to convey them away are being made up. These letters are given to the attendants of the Saloon, who stamp and send them to their destination free of charge. In one corner of the room is a desk where large bundles of the city papers are deposited, in readiness for gratuitous distribution. The food furnished the men is better by considerable than the average fare at our city hotels. The bill embraces beef of all kinds, ham, pickles, sweet and common potatoes, excellent white bread, tea and coffee, and often cakes and pies. The coffee-boilers hold 180 gallons, which is reduced, on account of its strength, to 360 gallons. Each regiment upon an average uses seven barrels of coffee, besides many gallons of tea. The average cost of a soldier's meal varies from nine to ten cents." Later in the war the cost was about doubled. The gun mentioned, which was fired to notify the attendants when troops left a far off station and again upon their arrival at the city, has an interesting history. It was manufactured at Springfield, Massachusetts. In the war with Mexico it fell into the hands of the enemy, was put on board a Mexican privateer called the Wasp,-which was overhauled by an American gun-boat and sent to Philadelphia,-was placed upon the receiving ship at the Navy Yard,-which was sunk by an ice-jam, was raised,-and was finally loaned to the Union Saloon. A curious autobiography MARTIAL DEEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA - 1028 was written of this gun in which the old piece was made to say: "I am housed up on Washington Avenue, and it is only on particular occasions, or when I am in a filthy condition-owing to the black food they ram down my throat, and against which I kick tremendously-that they let me see the bright sun, or the twinkling stars; and then I must be gazed at as an object of curiosity, or slushed with water, and rubbed and scoured until I can flash back the rays of old Sol, who, in another climate, often heated me so that my friends were heartily glad to keep their hands off. I was in Mexico, and I often astonished the greasers on the Rio Grande with my iron compliments. . . . I make as much noise as possible whenever I know our noble volunteers are coming to our Saloon. I do this to welcome them and call our committee from home to wait on them, for they deserve good treatment. . . . I often hear them say: 'Bully for Philadelphia!' 'They do things up; don't they?' 'That's the best meal I have had since I left home.' I once heard a sick soldier who had been in the hospital say to his comrade whom he had brought down to see me: 'They could not have taken better care of me if I had belonged to them.' I sometimes think that all this talk of the volunteers induces the gunner that feeds me to cram too much down my throat, for often after a large number have been at the Saloon, and the excitement runs high, and everybody is overflowing with good humor, and other troops are expected soon, he gives me a big dose, or greases my mouth, and when he fires me off, the glass rattles from the windows around. It makes no difference to me, for I have brass sufficient about me to break anybody's windows." The flag-staff which stood in front of the Saloon also had a story. It was the mainmast of the revenue cutter J. C. Dobbin, which was for a while in the hands of the enemy in the Savannah River bearing the rebel flag, but was rescued, and when condemned at the Navy Yard, this staff was loaned to the Union Saloon. The substantial and palatable character of the entertainment furnished, its abundance, and the hearty good-will and even love with which it was given, arrested the attention of all, and called forth their thanks and gratitude. Mr. L. P. Brockett, of Brooklyn, New York, under date of June 8th, 1863, writes to Samuel UNION VOLUNTEER REFRESHMENT SALOON - 1029 B. Fales, the Corresponding Secretary and financial agent of the association: "I was conversing a few weeks since with an officer of one of the Eastern regiments. . . . We were speaking of the demoralizing influences of camp life, and he remarked that while at east New York, his regiment, composed in large part of farmers' sons and lads who had had a considerable amount of moral training at home, became sadly demoralized. The camp was surrounded by grog- shops, and the rations were of the poorest-filthy, insufficient, and not half cooked-and all the associations of the camp were evil; the men had become dispirited, feeling that no one cared for them, except as food for powder; and though he and some of the other officers endeavored to cheer them, they were sullen, and seemed about ready for mutiny and desertion. 'But,' said he, 'orders came for the regiment to march, and the men went on board the steamer much as if they were going to the gallows. We reached Philadelphia, and were marched to the Volunteer Refreshment Saloon, and the warm welcome, the hearty shake of the hand, and the ample and delicious faire served up for us, put a new spirit into the men. They had landed in a mutinous mood; they left Philadelphia feeling that they were the cherished soldiers of the nation, loved for the cause in which they were to fight. Over and over again, during our passage from Philadelphia, I heard remarks like this from one and another of the men: 'Well, they showed that they did care for us after all.' - 'Weren't those nice, handsome ladies that helped us there?' This influence did not leave them after they went to the field; often was that night's supper at the Refreshment Saloon spoken of, and its influences in preventing demoralization, and rousing the ambition and self-respect of the men, was wonderful. When, on Thanksgiving Day, the townsmen of the soldiers had provided a bounteous dinner, more than one of the soldiers said to me: 'This seems like that supper in Philadelphia, only we haven't the ladies to wait on us.'" The testimony of the officials in the several States from which soldiers passed through Philadelphia was unreserved and appreciative of the great work done by the Union organization. Governor Andrew, of Massachusetts, writes: "Gratefully acknowledging the comfort, encouragement, and consolation MARTIAL DEEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA - 1030 afforded to many thousands of our New England soldiers, to whom, in their hunger, thirst, weariness, and sickness, our devoted friends in Philadelphia have administered with unfailing generosity, kindness and solicitude." Governor Holbrook, of Vermont: "Over 6000 of the volunteer soldiers of Vermont, on their way to the seat of war, have been refreshed and comforted at your Saloon, and 'Our Green Mountain Boys' remember the kind attentions of the citizens of Philadelphia with lively gratitude. On behalf of the State of Vermont, I return hearty thanks for the kindness shown to our soldiers on their passage through your city." Governor Buckingham, of Connecticut: "Such disinterested and self- sacrificing benevolence will be gratefully remembered, not only by the soldiers, but by their many friends in this State." Secretary Seward: "The disinterested patriotism and benevolence of those who manage that institution have for some time past attracted my attention and admiration." The Hon. Edward Everett: "No one circumstance, I am sure, has contributed more to the comfort and health of our patriotic fellow-citizens who have obeyed their country's call. It has given your city a new and most commanding title to her beautiful name." Nor were the efforts of this association confined to the refreshment of soldiers at its own rooms. Stores were shipped to St. Louis, to Kentucky, and other points, in response to earnest calls for help from similar institutions. Many young men who had received leave of absence, as a reward for good conduct, to attend military schools in the city in preparation to command colored troops, were allowed to take their meals and lodge at the Saloon. On the homeward march soldiers often came with considerable sums of money, and were fit subjects for the wiles of the sharper, having been not unfrequently drugged and robbed. Large numbers were induced to send this to their families, members of the committee often laboring until midnight in writing letters and despatching them. Sums were also sent by express. Over $50,000 were thus forwarded, $15,000 having been sent at one time. After the battle of Bull Run, 290 sick and wounded soldiers from that disastrous field, who could not find a place in the United States hospitals, were taken in charge by the Union UNION VOLUNTEER REFRESHMENT SALOON - 1031 committee, and 260 of them were permanently provided for, many of them taken to the homes of its members, some remaining a period of three months. After the battle of Gettysburg, over 700 patients were received, the utmost energies being taxed for a time in burying the dead, dressing the wounded, attending the surgeons in their ghastly work, and in ministering to their daily wants. Divine services were held for the benefit of soldiers in the hospitals in January, 1864, at which clergymen from the various denominations officiated. The following were the officers of this great charity: Chairman, Arad Barrows; Recording Secretary, J. B. Wade; Treasurer, B. S. Brown; Steward, J.T. Williams; Physician, E. Ward; Corresponding Secretary and General Financial Agent, Samuel B. Fales. Committee of Gentlemen: Arad Barrows, Bazilla S. Brown, Joseph B. Wade, Isaac B. Smith, Sr., Erasmus W. Cooper, Job T. Williams, John W. Hicks, George Flomerfelt, John Krider, Sr., Isaac B. Smith, Jr., Charles B. Grieves, James McGlathery, John B. Smith, Curtis Myers, Dr. Eliab Ward, Christian Powell, W. S. Mason, Charles s. Clampitt, D. L. Flanigan, Richard Sharp, James Cassel, Samuel B. Fales, Robert R. Corson, and John T. Wilson. Committee of Ladies: Mrs. Mary Grover, Hannah Smith, Priscilla Grover, Margaret Boyer, Eliza J. Smith, Anna Elkinton, Ellen B. Barrows, Mary L. Field, Ellen J. Lowry, Mary D. Wade, Eliza Plumer, Mary A. Cassedy, Mary Lee, Emily Mason, Mary Green, Eliza Helmbold, Elizabeth Horton, Sarah Femington, Kate B. Anderson, and Hannah F. Bailey, and Misses Sarah Holland, Catherine Bailey, Amanda Lee, Anna Grover, Martha B. Krider, Annie Field, and Mary Grover. With the exception of the Steward, who was constantly employed and who had responsible and laborious duties to perform, none of the officers or agents of the association received any compensation. Mr. Fales, who was a man of large means, of extensive acquirements and scholarly tastes, gave his almost exclusive attention for over four and a half years to this work, often laboring till late at night though his life had passed the bounds of half a century. He was a native of Boston and allied by birth MARTIAL DEEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA - 1032 to the families of Governor Bradford and James Otis; was educated at Harvard College, and previous to the war was engaged in making a collection of paintings and other fine art works, which he suspended entirely to engage in the labors of the Union Saloon. His influence, during the whole period, among wealthy citizens was very great in procuring the necessary funds, and from the fact that the association was not incorporated he was individually liable, as were his associates, for any debts incurred in its management. Since the war he has been made a Companion of the Military order of the "Loyal Legion of the United States,"-an association which admitted to companionship but one civilian to fifty officers,-a high mark of approval, by military men, of his great services in behalf of soldiers during the war, and in the engrossed resolutions of the Committee of the Union Volunteer Refreshment Saloon, he was designated the SOLDIERS' FRIEND. Mrs. Eliza G. Plummer, born in 1812, had been for twenty-five years a widow. Though in humble circumstances, she had been long known as the friend of the sick and needy, and when the Saloon and the Hospital were opened, was among the most untiring in her attentions, and was made principal of the latter. When, in 1862, the accommodations were insufficient for the numbers of the sick and wounded, she took some of the worst cases of virulent typhoid fever to her own home, and nursed them with a mother's tenderness. At the fair held in 1863, and in caring for the Gettysburg wounded who came almost simultaneously with that event, she was debilitated by excessive labor, and soon after sank to the grave, widely lamented and mourned. Mrs. Mary B. Wade, past seventy, known among the soldiers as Mother Wade; Mrs. Ellen J. Lowry, past fifty, a native of Baltimore; and Mrs. Margaret Boyer, of Philadelphia, also advanced in years, were among the active and untiring. On the 1st of January, 1863, a beautiful eagle, the National emblem, measuring fourteen feet from tip to tip, and standing nearly six feet in height, artistically carved and gilded, the work of employes of the Navy Yard, was presented to the Saloon, and was placed upon the roof over the main entrance. Mr. T. Buchanan Read subsequently read at the Academy of Music the following poem, suggested by its sunlit appearance, appropri- UNION VOLUNTEER REFRESHMENT SALOON - 1033 ately dedicated to Mr. Samuel B. Fales, in recognition of his tireless labors: I saw in a vision with glory o'errun, A great golden Eagle flash out of the sun; His wide wings of splendor were lit like the morn, Ablaze with the hue of the place he was born. He had heard the first shell that at Sumter was hurled, And at once his broad pinions of light were unfurled; His eyes flashing anger-his talons beneath, Holding the bolts threatening treason with death- The bolts that in lightning and thunder were poured In defence of the right-in the name of the Lord! He heard the great North call loudly to arms- Saw the West pouring legions from cities and farms- The Excelsior State give her patriot sons, And the solid old Keystone, a-glitter with guns! Just think, if you can, as he drop't down the sky, What a wonderful picture lay under his eye: There were long lines of dust with the bayonet's quiver, Moving southward unchecked, like a storm-swollen river, That at last breaks its banks and pours over the plain A terrible deluge that naught can restrain; And the cavalry, swift as the shades of a cloud, Swept the field, where the foe like a harvest was bowed And where those brave champions were sheltered and fed, He perched with his guardian wings wide overhead. How the soldier's eye glistened, as gazing aloof, He saw the great emblem that brightened the roof. There many a blue-coat, with dust almost gray, Breathed a blessing and prayer as he went on his way, And the poor wounded veteran, borne up from the fight, Smiled a smile of relief as that bird flashed in sight, For he knew that beneath, in that hospital ward, Great patriot hearts kept their tireless guard: Kind men and kind women, whom toil could not tame, Who wrought not for pay, and who dreamed not of fame: They sought no promotion, their labor was love- But their crowns and their stars surely wait them above, Where the angel of freedom her gratitude sings, And stands like that Eagle with welcoming wings." When, in 1868, the Republican National Convention for the nomination of a candidate for President and Vice-President assembled in Philadelphia, there came from near and far large numbers of soldiers, members of an organization known as the Boys in Blue. When the patrons of the Old Union Saloon learned that soldiers were coming, former recollections were revived. A meeting of the former committee, and those who had shown such disinterested charity and philanthropy during the years of MARTIAL DEEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA - 1034 peril, was called, and it was proposed, as of old, to buckle on the armor and again take them by the hand in glad welcome. The objection was raised that these were men of one particular party and the Saloon would be committed by such an act to a political organization. But to this it was answered that, as during the war the party or creed of the applicant for bounty was never asked, but the refugee, the contraband, and even rebel deserter, was received and fed, so now it was enough to know that hey had been the country's defenders. This view prevailed, and once more the committee and their assistants gathered in their stores. Again was the old gun brought into requisition, and its voice echoed across the Delaware, and along the waters of the Schuylkill. National Hall was taken possession of, and transformed into a saloon, and in the space of forty- eight hours 29,000 meals were furnished. The entire force of the former society, from highest to lowest, even to Mother Wade, now past eighty, was out. Old associations were joyfully recalled, and the heart of the donor and the recipient of bounty were together made glad. THE COOPER SHOP VOLUNTEER REFRESMENT SALOON, of Philadelphia, which, like the Union Saloon, with which it was intimately associated, has attained a reputation broad as the national domain by its open-handed charity, took its name from the building where it was located, which previous to the war had been used for the manufacture of shooks for the West India trade. This building, 32 by 150 feet, stands upon Otsego street, a few rods south of Washington Avenue, near the line of march of soldiers passing through the city on their way to or from the front. When the tide of troops, early in 1861, began to set towards the national capital, and the weary and travel-stained soldiers paused for refreshments which kind-hearted women of the neighborhood prepared for them in the open street, Messrs. William M. Cooper and H. W. Pearce, who in company carried on the business in this building, suggested that it be taken for a Saloon. Boilers were accordingly obtained and set in the great fire-place, tables were extemporized and thus the work was begun. Those interested first brought provisions from their own homes COOPER SHOP VOLUNTEER REFRESHMENT SALOON - 1035 but as the troops came in great numbers they appealed for help to butchers, grocers, milkmen, and even farmers, in a wide circuit. Mrs. Thomas D. Grover rendered efficient aid in collecting provisions, and her example was emulated by others. Their call was promptly responded to, and their humble enterprise grew into a large and well-managed institution, doing well and faithfully its self- appointed work. A hospital was also established over which Andrew Nebinger, M. D., presided, giving freely his services and attention. A committee of ladies, at the head of which was Miss Anna M. Ross, devoted itself to the care of the suffering. The wash-boilers in the old fire-place were eventually succeeded by a mammoth range, where hourly a hundred gallons of coffee could be made. The Cooper Shop and the Union Saloons worked harmoniously side by side, the only rivalry being in the strife to see which should do the most good, and ample opportunity was found for their united labors. That there might be no clashing in the practical working of their organizations a committee of three from each was appointed to arrange the details of receiving soldiers, afterwards reduced to one from each, and finally increased to three in May, 1863, and consisted of Messrs. Sharp, Mason, and Brown from the Union, with Messrs. Plant, Coward, and Mellen from the Cooper Shop. By these it was agreed that each should alternately entertain the officers and an equal division of enlisted men. When the arrivals were less than two hundred in number, each in turn was to receive all who came within a space of twenty-four hours. In a brief address at Concert Hall on the occasion of a benefit to the Saloon, on the 22d of November, 1864, Miss Cordelia Cappell said: "When the careworn soldier, his wounds still bleeding, comes from the battle-field, he finds at the Cooper Shop Volunteer Refreshment Saloon a solution of the problem of what constitutes true patriotism and philanthropy. The extended hand not empty-the cheerful welcome not an empty sound-a place at a table never bare-give him the sweet assurance that the welcome is like the great sea's ebb, which only retires when laden with inestimable blessings. . . . Not only to the returned soldier are its doors open, but to the gallant boys passing to the field of battle, their martial spirit MARTIAL DEEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA - 1036 beaming from their sparkling eyes, does this oasis present itself. The cooling streams in the deserts of Arabia are not more welcome to the weary, wandering traveller than is the Cooper Shop Volunteer Refreshment Saloon to our returned volunteers! It remained for this war to elicit and bring forth all the noble qualities of men and women, to sustain a country that has no parallel in history." Miss Anna M. Ross, the Lady Principal of the hospital, in closing an appeal for aid, dated March 1st, 1862, said: "Since the opening of the hospital, on the 29th of October last, there have been received in it 130 patients; of these 113 have left the hospital either cured or relieved; three have died and fourteen are now in the ward-a large number of patients, certainly, to be treated in so small a hospital, in a space of time covering only five months. This little institution now presents itself to you and your congregation, and solicits your and their aid. The defenders of our bleeding yet glorious Union implore your help. The cause of humanity begs you for assistance, and the soldier-sick and a stranger among us-asks you to give, and he knows that to ask will be to receive." Early in the year 1862, the hospital was placed under the charge of a committee of three ladies: Mrs. R. P. King, Mrs. William Struthers, and Mrs. Hatch, in addition to the Principal, with power to add three others to their number. The supply of drugs, which was quite complete, was under the charge of Mr. Robert Nebinger, who labored with great zeal to make the collection serviceable. The increasing demands upon the association for hospital care and treatment, and from a class who, having been discharged from the service of the United States, were still not beyond the bounds of humanity and mercy, induced the managers to project a Soldiers' Home, a charter for which was obtained on the 15th of February, 1862, from the Philadelphia Court. Not until September could suitable apartments be procured. To raise the necessary funds to open it, and to form a nucleus for future efforts, a fair was held by the ladies associated in the management of the Saloon, headed by Miss Ross, the Principal, from which the sum of $2400 was realized. The necessary repairs and preparations having been made, it was formally opened and dedicated to its purposes. But, on the very COOPER SHOP VOLUNTEER REFRESHMENT SALOON - 1037 day that the dedication took place, she who had been among the foremost in laboring to establish it was called to her final rest. Possessed of a vigorous constitution, and urged forward by unfailing energy, in her zeal to minister to the infirmities of others she had utterly neglected to care for herself. "Fatigue," says Dr. Moore, in his history of the Saloon, "numbness, a sense of extreme cold, and finally paralysis supervened, and this faithful servant of God remained for days in a state of unconsciousness. When she aroused from this, she felt as if death were approaching, and embracing her friends, peacefully breathed her last. . . . An immense concourse of people attended the honored with clustering roses, beneath a stately cedar, her tomb is marked by a chaste monument of marble, and an appropriate inscription testifies the appreciation of her worth by sorrowing friends, records her virtues, and presents the passer-by with a noble subject of emulation. On the day of her decease, while she lingered in the last struggles of expiring nature, the 'Cooper Shop Soldiers' Home' was dedicated. Thus she 'rests from her labors and her works do follow her.' She was about fifty years of age." After the death of Miss Ross, Mrs. Abigail Horner became the Lady Principal of the hospital, and was ably seconded by Mrs. J. Floyd, Mrs. J. Perry, Mrs. R. P. King, Mrs. E. E. Roberts, Mrs. William M. Cooper, and Mrs. P. Fitzpatrick. An Act of incorporation of the Home was obtained from the Legislature on the 20th of April, 1864; but it was soon after merged in the Soldier's Home of Philadelphia. The number of men under treatment from the organization of the hospital to May 25th, 1862, was 159; to May 25th, 1863, 305; to May 25th, 1864, eighty-five were admitted, two died, and seventy-nine were discharged; and to 1865, twelve died and 291 were discharged. This number is exclusive of several thousands of soldiers who, passing through the city, received dispensary treatment. At the close of the war it had 160 inmates, and by the proceeds of a fair held for the purpose, in which the managers were aided by several influential citizens, at the head of whom was General Meade, it had in invested fund for its perpetual support of $100,000. The location of the Home was at first at Race and Crown streets, but MARTIAL DEEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA - 1038 was subsequently at Sixteenth and Filbert streets, in the State Arsenal, the use of which was kindly granted by the Legislature. "The institution," says Dr. Moore, "as the visitor enters, presents an appearance of great interest. The name of any patriot soldier or sailor is at once put upon the books, and his place assigned him. If he desires to read, an extensive, well-selected library provides him with a valuable and varied collection of books. A School furnishes instruction in reading, writing, arithmetic, and other useful branches. The dormitory is spacious and well ventilated, while the hospital, complete and well ordered, receives the sick, who are attended by a Resident Physician, and daily by another in conjunction. The apothecary's shop is full of medicines, capable of relieving the maladies of the patients in all but desperate cases. These supplies, called to the aid of science, mitigate the sufferings of the brave defenders of their country, who are well cared for. There is a Bible class, in which a considerable number meet daily to read the Scriptures, and a spacious chapel where divine service is held. The supply at table is excellent, nutritious and plentiful. The inmates partake of the meals with good order, and it is an interesting sight to see them. The melodeon and other musical instruments are called into requisition during the evening, and the time passes delightfully away, all being improving from the beginning to the end, morally and intellectually. On the occasion of the flag presentation in July, 1866, when the banners of Pennsylvania regiments were delivered back to the hands of the Governor, to be deposited in the archives of the State, the orphan children of the soldiers were received at the Home. Seven hundred of them were hospitably entertained during their stay in the city. Through the whole period of the Rebellion, the Cooper Shop Volunteer Refreshment Saloon was sustained by the noble and unremitted efforts of all classes of citizens of Philadelphia. The old and young contributed. Poor as well as rich gave freely according to their means. All classes vied with each other in endeavors to support the institution whose aims were purely those of patriotic philanthropy. But, while others contributed, the committee labored as well, and many of them fell victims to their noble ardor, or had the seeds of disease disseminated in their constitutions which no skill of the COOPER SHOP VOLUNTEER REFRESHMENT SALOON - 1039 healing art can eradicate. Thus the beneficent efforts made by the committee and their friends, by means of fairs and contributions, passed not away, but became perpetuated in the Soldiers' Home." Of the number of those who sustained this association, and who were cut off in the midst of their labors, were Miss Clara T. Cooper, daughter of William M. Cooper, one of the owners of the building which gave name to the charity; Mr. William H. Dennis, who was stricken down suddenly from prostration, "one of the most untiring members of the committee;" Mrs. Mary Ann Haines, "one of the originals of the committee, whose loss was much felt and deeply regretted by the soldiers and a large circle of friends;" and Mr. William Morrison, who was the first of their number to be summoned from the stirring scenes of life. In the volume of Dr. Moore a daily record of troops is published, which shows that in the aggregate, during the little more than four years of its existence, six hundred thousand were received. The committee who originally had the Saloon in charge was constituted as follows: William M. Cooper, H. W. Pearce, A. M. Simpson, W. R. S. Cooper, Jacob Plant, Walter R. Mellon, A. S. Simpson, C. V. Fort, William Morrison, Samuel W. Nickels, Philip Fitzpatrick, T. H. Rice, William M. Maull, R. H. Ransley, L. B. M. Dolby, A. H. Cain, William H. Dennis, R. H. Hoffner, L. W. Thornton, Joseph E. Sass, T. L. Coward, E. J. Herrity, C. L. Wilson, Joseph Perry, R. G. Simpson, Isaac Plant, James Toomey, H. H. Webb, William Sprowle, Henry Dubosq, G. R. Birch, Christopher Jacoby, James Tosing, E. S. Cooper, Joseph Coward, J. T. Pacer, A. Nebinger and R. Nebinger. The picture of the Saloon and of its operations as drawn by Dr. Moore is of interest: "The room was strictly clean and tidy, and every article shone by the careful hands of the active housekeepers who ministered to our braves. In the extensive fire-place was a large boiler for preparing the coffee, one for boiling meats, and all the required utensils of the culinary art. While the vegetables were cooking, and the viands preparing, each table was laid with a clean white linen cloth, on which were arranged plates of white stone china, mugs of the same, knives and forks, castors, and all that was necessary for table use. Bouquets of MARTIAL DEEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA - 1040 flowers, the gifts of visitors, were frequently added, and lent their fragrance to the savory odors. The bill of fare consisted of the best the market supply, and was not, in the articles provided, inferior to that of any hotel. At all meals food was abundant; consisting of ham, corned beef, bologna sausage, bread made of the finest wheat, butter of the best quality, cheese, pepper sauce, beets, pickles, dried beef, coffee and tea, and vegetables." The treatment accorded soldiers at this Saloon excited in the breasts of the hundreds of thousands of those who were its recipients the kindest and most enduring regard. Many letters were received from the field and from far off homes, from soldiers themselves and from the relatives of those who had fallen in the strife, tendering the warmest thanks for the Christian and humanizing influences bestowed. One will stand as an example of all, and will fitly conclude this notice. It was addressed by Fannie M. Overton, from Long Island, to Mr. Wm. M. Cooper: "Dear Sir:-I am under greater obligations to you and your lady committee than any others on this earth. I am a widow with but little of this world's goods, and have received many favors, but thou hast outdone them all; and on the judgment day I hope my children will rise up and call you blessed. There is but little prospect of my seeing any of you, except the one who has been at my humble cottage, on such an errand of mercy with the law of kindness on his tongue; but, do not fail to meet me in heaven. Dr. Nebinger: Thanks to you. God bless you for your faithful efforts to relieve the sufferings of and restore my dear, my oldest son. May the great physician hold you precious in his sight-soul and body-and when you are removed hence, may it be to the land where the inhabitants never say, 'I am sick.' Rev. Joseph Perry: You found my boy a disabled soldier in the hospital; you reminded him that he had a soul to save, as well as a body to heal. A thousand thanks to you for it. The blessed intelligence that 'he was enabled to say that his trust was in the crucified Saviour, and that we would meet in heaven,' made my heart beat with joy, while it ached with grief. Mr. Struther: You, in unison with your lady, were a friend to the fatherless boy-the stranger among you. The Lord reward you a thousand-fold. To one and all, I return thanks, hearty thanks."