Minutes of the Board of Visitors of The Citadel, 1892

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Charleston S. C.
April 9^th 1892

The Executive Committee Board of Visitors, met at Charleston Hotel at 8 o clock – Present –
Genl. Hagood – Chairman
Board of Visitors
Dr. S. B. Jones
Maj. C. S. Gadsden

1^stCase of Cadet J. M. Ivy –
Suspended by Supt. for willfully destroying a part of the records of the Commandant’s Office, after they had been saved from the fire at the Citadel.
Considering the above case the Board decide that he has not met the requirements of his matriculation promise and they cannot consent to his remaining in the school under the circumstances of his case. In view however of his youth and earnestly expressed desire to reenter the Academy they consent to his applying to do so, at the next session – and trust that if admitted, his experience will induce him to fulfill more faithfully the obligations he assumes.
2^nd The Chairman submitted a report by the Supt. Col Coward of the origin of the fire, losses sustained &.c. see report –

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Report of Superintendent
Gen. Johnson Hagood
Chairman Board of Visitors
Dear Sir: - It is my painful duty to report that about 10 o’clock a.m. of March 14^th the south front of the Citadel main building was discovered to be on fire in the attic space above the south sally port. Although the force of the city Fire Department was promptly assembled the fire, owing to the open character of the under-roof space and the difficulty of reaching it, rapidly extended through the entire roof, and burning downward, reached the floor of the second story before it was completely extinguished. The denseness of the smoke in the quadrangle and the early falling of the uppermost ceiling prevented the saving of any considerable amount of property in the third story. Most of the cadets were in the classrooms in the east wing when the fire was discovered, consequently few of them occupying rooms on the third floor were able to reach their rooms or save their effects. The risk to life was too great to warrant any organized effort to that end, and efforts at saving were, therefore, mainly confined to the lower stories.
As soon as it became apparent that the entire roof would be lost, I began planning for quartering the cadets in the city, for the idea of

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disbanding the corps was not to be entertained. Several armories of the city military companies were promptly tendered for the purpose; Dr Porter kindly offered to accommodate 125 cadets at the Porter Academy, and hosts of citizens offered shelter amply sufficient in the aggregate. Hon. W. A. Courtenay, suggested the Roper Hospital which has been empty since its refitting after the earthquake, and very shortly thereafter the Trustees made an official tender of its use. This was accepted and arrangements were promptly made for transporting bedding, blankets &c in order to have the entire corps made comfortable there for the night. The east wing of the Citadel being intact there was no trouble about meals, except the inconvenience of marching from the Roper Hospital to the Citadel and back three times a day. After supper on the 14^ththe corps moved into the new quarters, and all were comfortably provided for. The use of class rooms in the Charleston Medical College, and of the basement of the disused Marion Hospital, both with yards adjoining Roper Hospital have enabled me to assemble the Academic and the Subsistence departments in practically the same enclosure with the quarters. Much work and considerable expense were

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necessary to make the adaptations required; but everything was in order for work in all departments, excepting drills, by Monday the 21^st inst., and while are some unavoidable but comparatively trifling inconveniences, there is no reason to apprehend any failure to accomplish the work of the academic year in a satisfactory manner. The regular drills had been intermitted until Monday 28^th on account of the loss of arms and equipments. They have now been resumed by beginning the artillery drill with those cadets not supplied with rifles. I have notified the Secretary of War of the loss and requested instructions as to the proper course to pursue. I presume an act of Congress will be necessary to relieve the [illegible] of responsibility to the extent of the loss; and to authorize a new issue by the Ordinance Department to supply the deficiency.
On a separate page I give a statement of the losses. You will observe that the losses of the cadets are very considerable (items (g) (h) and (i)) even as I have estimated them. Item (g) is made up only of such articles of outer clothing, under wear, fatigue caps, and shoes as are necessary to be at once supplied, and does not fully represent the actual loss of such articles, nor does it

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take into count the loss of watches, trinkets, and similar personal effects.
I am happy to state however, that by a prompt practical, yet delicately tendered, expression of womanly sympathy on the part of “The Lady friends of the cadets,” the sum of $1011 85/100, has been placed in Bank subject to my order, to be applied to supplying the losses under this item. Their letter notifying me of their action is herewith submitted, and will no doubt receive from your Board an acknowledgement, not less sincere, but much more appropriate than that which I have made.

Schedule of Losses by burning of Citadel March 14^th 1892
(a) Two upper stories of Main Building, estimate $16500.00 (#)
(b) Furniture 1487.00
(c) Text books 476.49
(d) Library books 300.00
(e) D. M. Stock of cadet supplies 80.00
(f) Physical apparatus 78.17
(g) Cadet clothing (wearing) 1281.71
(h) Cadet Drawing instruments 408.27
(i) Cadet uniform hats (60) 3 pompous 210.00
(j) Cadet officers swords and belts (7 off – 5 sergt)(academic property) 99.40
(k) x 54 cadet rifles (new – property of U.S.)
(l) x 67 sets of accoutrements

(a)(c)(d) – fully covered by insurance
(b) Insurance $1000. – net loss $487.00
(e)(f)(g)(h)(i)(j) – no insurance –

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(#) Contractor’s estimate
x The numbers may be lessened by a subsequent report.

The outpouring of sympathy and offers of assistance by the citizens of Charleston gave convincing evidence of the nearness of the Academy to their hearts. Where the manifestation was so universal it would be an impossible task to particularize. Of the larger kindnesses tendered and accepted it is proper, however, that I should mention the following: -The Trustees of the Roper Fund for the building now occupied as Barracks.
The Faculty of the SoCa Medical College for the use of class rooms in College building.
The Board of School Commissioners for the use of the yards and basement of the building formerly used as the Marion Hospital.
Mr T. H. Wilson for the use of the comfortable dwelling house now occupied by my own family.
Mr J. M. Connelly, Misses Jackson and Pickett for teams to transport furniture &c. All of these were tendered free of charge.
In closing this brief report, I beg to say that the cheerful alacrity and fortitude with which all under my command have borne the fatigues, inconveniences and losses incident to this great disaster have filled me with pride and

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encouragement. An institution whose system pf training qualifies it to bear such a strenuous pressure of misfortune as ours has just undergone without even an appearance of strain in its morale and discipline, is one of which the State should be proud to cherish and sustain

Very respectfully
Your obt. serv’t.
Asbury Coward
Supt.

P.S. I regret to state that the academic officers occupying the third story of the main building lost nearly all of their personal property. They were Maj. Thomas, Lieut. Bond and family, Lieut. Johnson, Lieut White.
I beg to say here that to Lieut White – Quartermaster my own thanks and that of the Board are eminently due. To his indefatigable zeal, and industry, and quick executive ability must be largely attributed the rapid success in adjusting the academy to its new surroundings.

A.C.

3^rd The Chairman further submitted a report by Maj. C. S. Gadsden, Resident Member of the Board. (See Report)

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Report of Maj. Gadsden
Charleston S.C. April 1/92

Genl. Johnson Hagood
Chairman of B. of V.S. S.C.M.A.

Dear Sir: -
Col. Coward the Superintendent will report to you the facts connected with the fire at the Citadel and his arrangements subsequently.
As resident member of the Board of Visitors I will briefly report on the efforts made for the restoration of the building.
On finding that the fire had not caused a total loss of the insurance on the main building the Adjusters of the Insurance Cos. asked for bids for the repairs, when among these bids made they selected Mr Henry Oliver for $16.228.00. Gov. Tillman consented to the plan of repairs by the Insurance Cos. provided the State’s interests were protected by the Contractor furnishing a bond with sureties to make good whatever loss the property of the State had sustained by the fire.
On Wednesday last, March 30^th there were forwarded to the Governor specifications for the work, the contract of Mr Oliver made with the Governor of the State of South Carolina, and the bond of Mr Oliver signed by two good men (Messrs. W.E.

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Holmes and Joseph Thompson)
This it would seem renders certain the restoration of the building in four months time from the execution of the papers by the contractor.
Some person must be named as the Agent of the State to receive the premises when the work has been finished.

Respectfully
C. S. Gadsden

The above report was supplemented by following statement: At a subsequent visit to Gov. Tillman, Mr Gadsden was appointed Agent of the State to superintend repair, and to collect and disburse the money paid in by Insurance Companies.

Considering the foregoing facts as presented by the Reports, the Board deem it proper, and becoming to make expression of their feelings on so important a crisis in the history of the school. The following preambles and resolutions were adopted –
Whereas, in the recent loss by fire at the Citadel the underwriters, through their adjusters and local agents, acted with commendable promptness in ascertaining and adjusting the general losses under

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nine different policies; and whereas, this business-like and friendly action was prompted by high public considerations, alike honorable to the fire insurance companies and of incalculable advantage to the Military Academy in the prompt disposal of a public calamity, so grave as to threaten serious consequences if procrastinated and dealt with in an unfriendly or captious spirit:
Resolved, That the Executive Committee deem it a public duty to acknowledge this highly appreciated action of the underwriters, and would add their sincere thanks to the several gentlemen in charge of this all important business for their prompt action and fair settlement of the losses.
Resolved, That a copy of these proceedings be suitably engrossed and forwarded to each of the gentlemen associated in this good work.
Copies have been forwarded to Col. John D. Young, Henry T. Alley, and W. D. Degue Atlanta adjusters
W. S. Hastie, president of board of local underwriters, and to the following local agents:
F. Tupper and Co Commercial Union of London; Niagra of New York
Ravenel Johnson and Co. Royal of Liverpool
C. K. Huger and Co, Insurance Co. of North America; Wisteria of Canada

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Pelzer and Robinson, Scottish Union and National Lyon Insurance Company, London; Phoenix Insurance Company, London.
W. H. Dunkin, National of Connecticut; Niagra of New York.
S. Y. Tupper and Sons, Guardian of London.

The following correspondence is also spread upon the Minutes

Charleston S.C. April 16 1892
To the Honorable the Mayor and Aldermen of Charleston – In behalf of the board of visitors of the South Carolina Military Academy I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a copy of your valued proceedings of 22^nd of March, relating to the fire at the Citadel the previous week. Whether regarded in its kindly and generous expression of sympathy or on the higher plane of intelligent appreciation of the important educational institution, which promises so much for the future of South Carolina, your action is opportune and greatly valued, not only by those who are responsible for the government of the Academy, but by all citizens who look to it for a part of that higher education which experience has taught is wise and useful to the State, an education, as

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you truly say, “even more urgently needed now than at its origin fifty years ago.”
Your observant notice of the behavior of the cadets under the disabilities so suddenly encountered, emphasizes the merit of the training received at the Academy, which unquestionably helps to make self-reliant citizens ready for emergencies. It is a great gratification to learn that the personal life of the cadets is so acceptable to the people of Charleston, and that in their social intercourse “lifelong friendships are being established” – that “only pleasant memories” remain when they have finished their four years’ course, “binding together the whole State from the mountains to the seaboard.” I indulge the hope that these happy and inspiriting conditions may be forever perpetrated, that this Academy through future patient and achieving years may be the centre of an ever-widening circle, whose conquests shall be for all the State, and whose silent forces will permeate in love and unity all our people. With revered thanks for your kindness and consideration and with the assurance of highest regard,
I am, respectfully

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Johnson Hagood
Chairman

City of Charleston
Executive Department March 24/92
At the Regular Meeting of the City Council of Charleston, held on 22^nd instant, Alderman Baer submitted the following Preamble and Resolutions in reference to
The Fire at the Citadel.
The Mayor and Aldermen of Charleston in City Council assembled, cannot permit so distressing an occurrence as the burning of the roof, and the consequent damage to the upper rooms of the Citadel building, to pass, without voicing the feeling of profound regret felt throughout this community, and as they believe, fully shared by the great majority of the people of South Carolina, at this most unexpected and most unfortunate disaster.
Founded in the wise forethought of a previous generation, the Academy has been re-organized and maintained by the State authorities and people of South Carolina under altered public conditions, yet if possible, even more urgently needed now than at its origin fifty years ago. This is the belief of thoughtful citizens everywhere in the State, who gravely consider the coming years, and the value of this higher education in shaping that

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future.
The City Council of Charleston have an abiding faith, that these thoughts are common with all reflecting citizens, without regard to temporary political differences, from the Blue Ridge to the Sea. While deploring this loss and its consequent temporary inconveniences, the City Council desire to place on the public records of the City, its high appreciation of the conduct of Col. Coward and the Academic Staff during the conflagration and since, their wise judgement in making temporary arrangements, equal to the prompt continuance of the course of studies and the good order of the Institution.
Another conspicuous feature of this calamity has been, the manly self sacrificing of the young gentlemen, Cadets, representatives of every County of South Carolina. They have given evidence of their high citizenship in the exhibition of perfect discipline and manly bearing under severe trials, which are not only honorable, personally to each Cadet, but which attest as well the value of the military training which develops these high characteristics, and through them gives promise of future lives of usefulness and honor to State and Country. They have given fresh proof that

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“difficulty is opportunity;” therefore be it.
Resolved That that the fullest sympathy of the City Council of Charleston is respectfully tendered to Col. Coward and the Academic Board, and to the Cadets of the South Carolina Military Academy, for their dignified and manly bearing under the recent trying circumstances of serious losses and temporary discomfort so suddenly encountered, which presents a notable example of good conduct to all our people, to be emulated in time of future trouble.
Resolved – That the City Council of Charleston express the belief that their fellow citizens will esteem it a high privilege to relieve any and all personal losses by this conflagration, as far as possible to ascertain them.
Resolved. That these proceedings be spread upon the journals and published and that official copies be prepared and sent to each member of the Academic Board and to each Cadet, with the assurance of the high regard and esteem of the Mayor and Aldermen of Charleston.
Resolved – That his Honor the Mayor be authorized and requested to confer with the authorities of the Academy, with full power to act in all matters relating thereto as

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he may deem best.

Aldermen Zimmerman Davis seconded the Resolutions. He said: Mr Mayor: It seems superfluous to add anything to what has been so well said in the Preamble and Resolutions just presented, but I cannot resist the impulse to bear further testimony to the esteem in which the Faculty and Cadets of the South Carolina Military Academy are held by this entire community, and the profound regret which was universally expressed when it was known that the building was in flames. This noble Institution has become very dear to the hearts of our people, and we are proud of it. For two generations the Citadel Academy has been filled with young men from every County in our State, and it is worthy of public record that in all that time, there has never been known a single instance of unbecoming or ungentlemanly conduct on their part, while free from the restraint of the barracks. In many of the great Colleges of our land, the high spirits and the boisterous pranks of youth have frequently brought the students into collision with the citizens and civil authorities, and in many cases causing ill feeling between

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them, and a desire that such institutions be removed from such cities. This, I repeat, has never happened with South Carolina Cadets. When granted leave to visit, they have ever been welcomed in the homes of our people, where life-long friendships have been established, and when they have graduated, and returned to their homes, they have left behind them only pleasant memories, and have taken with them a lasting love for the old “City by the Sea,” which has repeatedly found expression in binding together the whole State, from the mountains to the sea, in a common brotherhood.
I sincerely hope that the beautiful building will soon rise from its ashes, and that the South Carolina Military Academy will continue its career of honor and usefulness to the remotest generations.
It gives me profound pleasure to second the Resolutions.

Upon the vote being taken the Preamble and Resolutions were unanimously adopted.

Official Copy for
Genl. Johnson Hagood
Barnwell C. H.
S. C.

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Jno. F. Fricken
Mayor

W. W. Simons
Clerk of Council

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Charleston SC
4 July 1892

The Board of Visitors of the SCMA assembled this day at 9 AM at the Charleston Hotel
Present –
Genl Johnson Hagood Chairman
Maj C. S. Gadsden –
Genl J W Moore –
Mr A M Youmans
H A Gaillard Esq –

The minutes of the meetings of the Ex. Committee, in relation to the Fire at the Academy buildings were read for the information of the Board
The Chairman submitted to the Board certain matters for their action.
After an informal consideration of the same, the Board proceeded to the Academy and inspected the work of reconstruction
Board then adjourned to meet at 9 AM tomorrow at the Roper Hospital

H. A Gaillard
Secy –

Charleston SC
5 July 1892

Board met at 9 AM
Present same members and in addition, Dr S B Jones –
The Board proceeded to the Buildings of the Roper Hospital and attended the annual examination of the Cadets

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The Board then adjourned to meet at 9 AM tomorrow

H. A Gaillard
Secy –

Charleston SC
6 July 1892

The Board met at 9 AM
Present the same members –
The Board resumed, in [illegible] and afternoon, attendance upon the Academic Examinations –
Adjourned to meet at 9 AM tomorrow

H A Gaillard
Secy –

Charleston SC
7 July 1892

The Board met at 9 AM
Present same members of the Board
After attending class examinations, the Chairman presented the Annual report of the Superintendent upon the Condition of the Institution, which report with accompanying papers and reports of the Academic Officers are hereto approved –
After consideration, action upon the recommendations contained in the report was deferred –
Board adjourned to meet at the Roper Hospital at 9.30 AM tomorrow

H A Gaillard
Secy

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Charleston SC
8 July 1892

The Board met at 9.30 AM at the Roper Hospital –

The Chairman presented the following letters –
Charleston March 22^nd 92

[Written on side of page.]
Correspondence between Ladies and Col Coward

[Main page.]
Col Coward
Commandant SC Military Academy
City
Dr Sir
Having after a great calamity been the recipient of material ascertained and kind sympathy restored our homes, warmed our hearts and awakened these feelings which make “all the world akin,” so now we with [illegible words] still vivid, in the same spirit desire to assist the Cadets, who have suffered from the recent fire
The State and City should and no doubt will and in the restoration of the Citadel, but we as mothers and sisters offer our help and sympathy to the youths under your command and care
We beg therefore your acceptance for them of the accompanying $1094.47, to be distributed at your discretion in replenishing their wardrobes according to their needs and losses
We are pleased to state that our efforts to collect this fund met with [illegible] response and kindly sentiment from the citizens [illegible].

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With the best wishes for the future of the Citadel, your Corps and yourself
(signed) We are the
Lady Friends of the Cadets

Reply of Col Coward
To Charleston SC 1892
The Lady Friends of the Cadets
Charleston SC
Dear Ladies
Your touching letter and the magnificent offering of help and sympathy accompanying it were received this afternoon through the hands of Capt Stoney. I cannot find feeling words to express my profound admiration and gratitude for the gift, for the spirit that [illegible] it, and for the delicate manner in which it was conveyed
I can only say that I accept the fund as a sacred trust and that I shall carry out your wishes as I would exercise a religious privilege

I am Very Respy
Your Obt Servant
A. Coward
Supt SCMA

After reading the foregoing correspondence Genl J W Moore submitted the following resolutions, which were unanimously adopted
“A number of the Ladies of the City of Charleston, having under the name of the “Lady Friends of the Cadets” sent to the Commandant of the South Carolina Military Academy, one thousand and ninety

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four 45/100 Dollars to be used by the Cadets in replenishing their wardrobes and supplying their losses sustained by the Fire at the Citadel in March last
Resolved – That we the Board of Visitors of the South Carolina Military Academy do hereby tender to the “Lady Friends of the Cadets” our sincere thanks not only for this liberal contribution, but also for the tender [illegible] they have shown in the welfare of our cherished institution. We beg to assume then, that we fully appreciate and cordially reciprocate the kindly feelings which prompted them in this offering. And we can confidently assert that under the influence of women so tender loving and true the youth of the State will develop into men who are honorable, truthful and brave, and will prove themselves [illegible] of the confidence and trust of the women of Carolina who have always been noted for their unselfish devotion to the interests of the State”
Ordered
That a copy of these resolutions be engrossed and sent to the “Lady friends of the Cadets, and they also be published in the Charleston Papers

[Written on side of page.]
Resolution of Thanks to Trustees of Roper Fund and Others

[Main page.]
The following Resolutions – were also submitted by Genl Moore and adopted by the Board
“Resolved” That the Board of Visitors of the South Carolina Military Academy do hereby tender our sincere thanks to the Trustees of the Roper Fund, for the use of the Building, now occupied as

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Barracks
To the Faculty of the South Carolina Medical College, for the use of the class rooms in the college building
To the Board of school commissioners for the use of the yards and basement of the Building formerly used as the Marine Hospital
To Mr S H Watson, for the use of the comfortable dwelling house now occupied by the Commandant of the South Carolina Military Academy and his Family
To Mr J M Connelly and Messrs Jackson & Pickett for teams to transport furniture, and other purposes
Ordered that a copy of these Resolutions be engrossed and sent to the above mentioned gentlemen as an expression of our gratitude for the kindness, received from them, and that they also be published in the Charleston Papers

The following statement and accompanying Resolutions were proposed by Maj C S Gadsden and adopted by the Board

[Written on side of page.]
Resolution of thanks to Special Committee Appointed to Aid in [illegible] of the Academy after the fire

[Main page.]
“Immediately after the disastrous fire at the S.C.M.A. on the 14^th of March last the Chairman of the Board of Visitors decided to select from among the many friends of the Academy in Charleston a Committee of Gentlemen to take into consideration the entire situation; On the one hand to direct the stream of public sympathy into useful channels, and on the other to unite the several Insurance companies [illegible] in the premises in the most practicable place

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for the restoration of the Citadel. With this object and in this connexion [sic] the following Committee was invited to act
Hon John F. Ficken Mayor
Hon W A Courtenay
Gen T A Huguenin
Col Jas W. Barnwell
Capt B F McCall

The Board of Visitors of the South Carolina Military Academy at this their first meeting after the fire desire to express their high sense of appreciation of the services of these gentlemen, chiefly through whose efforts the work of restoration has been so [illegible] successful
Resolved, that the well directed efforts of these Gentlemen have accomplished a noble work in bringing back to usefulness this time honored building, so essential to higher education, and so dear to the people of the State
Resolved, that the Board of Visitors tender to each member of the Committee its sincere thanks for timely and [illegible words] in the great disaster
Ordered
That these Resolutions be engrossed and a copy furnished to each member of the committee; also that the same be published in the Charleston Papers

The Chairman of the Board presented the following letter from the City Council of Charleston –

City of Charleston SC
May 27 1892

[Page 26]
[Written on side of page.]
In Relation to gift from City Council of $1500.00

[Main page.]
Col C S. Gadsden
Mem Ex Com Bd Visitors
SCMA

Dear Sir
I would respectfully inform you that at a meeting of the City Council of Charleston held 24^th May the sum of Fifteen hundred dollars was appropriated to and in the restoration and improvement of the Citadel
Very Resp
W W Simons
Clerk of Council
The Chairman stated that the Executive Committee of the Board had receipted for and acknowledged this fund and that it had been turned over to Maj C S Gadsden to be used as an additional fund in the reconstruction of the Building

Maj Gadsden offered the following resolution which was agreed to
Resolved
That on notification from Mr C S Gadsden, the Chairman of the Board will convene the Executive Committee in Charleston to inspect and [illegible] the restored Citadel building under the terms of the contract between the State and Henry Oliver Contractor.

The Chairman laid before the Board the following communication, addressed to Maj Reese

Charleston SC 6 July 1892
Maj C S Reese
Professor State Military Academy
(over)

[Page 27]
[Written on side of page.]
Application in behalf of Maj Reese

[Main page.]
Citadel City –
My Dear Sir –
The Executive Committee of the Trustees of the Charleston College are seeking to supply the place of Dr L R Goffes. To do this they must furnish instruction in Chemistry and Physics to the senior class, one hour each day.
The Committee instruct me to ask you if you could undertake this, and to this send could the consent of the Board of Visitors be obtained? If these questions are answered in the affirmational, what compensation will you require
This Committee have no authority to take final action, they must report to the Trustees. Personally I have no doubt that whatever they recommend the Trustees will adopt
Hoping that you will give this favorable consideration[.] I remain
Yours Truly
(signed) Charles H Simmton
Before consideration of the above,
It was ordered
That the [illegible] communication such [illegible] by the Chairman on behalf of Maj Reese be respectfully returned [illegible] through the Superintendent, with the statement that the Board cannot approve of any of its professors discharging duties in any other institution

The Chairman submitted the following letter from the Superintendent

[Page 28]
[Written on side of page.]
In Relation to Officer’s Quarter’s

[Main page.]
Charleston SC
8 July 1892

Genl Johnson Hagood
Chairman Bd of Visitors
Dear Sir
As a question will arise relative to the arrangement of quarters in the main building at the Citadel, I ask to be instructed as to whether the assignment as to water closets and bath rooms in the main building is to be governed by the [illegible] laid down by your Board for the quarter’s in the wing –
Very Respectfully
Asbury Coward
Supt
Upon Consideration
It was Ordered
That the communication be respy returned
“The Superintendent will apply to officer’s quarter’s in the main building, the rule heretofore announced by the Board as to Officer’s quarters in the West Wing”

[Written on side of page.]
Cadet Huguenin

[Main page.]
Case of Cadet Huguenin, absent from Annual Examination on account of illness
The following action was taken
It appearing that Cadet Huguenin of the 1^st Class, on account of long continued illness has been unable to attend his final examination, and that he will be disabled for a long time to stand such examination
And it further appearing from the report of the Superintendent, that this Cadet had

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passed through the prescribed Academic Course and would be [illegible] to graduation – if present, on account of general Academic standing
It is Ordered
That a Diploma of the Institution be conferred upon him as a member of the Class of 1892

[Written on side of page.]
In Memory of Col Edward Croft Decd

[Main page.]
The following Resolutions of respect to the memory of Col Edward Croft late a member of the Board were offered by Dr S. B. Jones and unanimously adopted by the Board
Whereas in the Providence of God we find the seat of our friend and brother member of this Board Col Edward Croft of Greenville vacated by death
Therefore Resolved
1^st That in the death of Col Croft the South Carolina Military Academy has lost a true friend and ardent supporter, and this Board a wise counselor true as steel to his convictions of Duty, and always as courteous as he was brave and manly
2^nd That while we bow with submission to the will of him, in whose hands are the issues of life and death, that we will ever cherish the memory of our departed friend, and by emulating his virtues, [illegible] on application of his high character as a Christian and a Gentleman
Ordered That a copy of these Resolutions be furnished to the afflicted family of our departed friend, with the assurance from this Board of its hearty sym

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-pathy with them in their severe bereavement

The Board then adjourned to meet in attendance upon the Commencement exercises at 8.30 PM this day
H A Gaillard
Secy

[Written on side of page.]
Enrolment [sic.]

[Main page.]
To the
Board of Visitors, S. C. Military
Academy:

The total enrolment [sic] of Cadets for the Academic year now drawing to a close is as follows
State Cadets 68
Pay Cadets 76
Total 144
The number at present on the roll
State Cadets 64
Pay Cadets 61 125
Total Casualties 19
The casualties are thus accounted for
By death 1
By honorable discharge 12
By dismission [sic] 3
By permitted retirement 2
By expulsion 1 19
Of these (4) were State Cadets namely
J. L. Barnwell of Beaufort, died
S. R. Elliot of Beaufort honorably dischg’d.
Fulton Spear of Abbeville honorably dischg’d
W. M. Bostick of Barnwell dismissed.

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In the graduating class, eleven (11) are State Cadets, namely,
A. S. Thomas, of Richland
J. Y. Beckwith of Orangeburg
B. W. Andrews of Orangeburg
R. I. Hasell of Charleston
J. F. McElwee of York
H. L. Scaife of Union
P. Brown of Sumter
J. Y. Padgett of Colleton
A. G. Etheredge of Edgefield
A. S. Manning of Marion
W. Z. McGhee of Abbeville

[Written on side of page.]
“13” Vacancies

[Main page.]
The vacancies to be filled are, therefore,
Abbeville 2
Barnwell 1
Beaufort 2
Charleston 1
Colleton 1
Edgefield 1
Marion 1
Orangeburg 2
Richland 1
Sumter 1
Union 1
York 1
Total 15

[Written on side of page.]
Health

[Main page.]
From the latter part of December to the middle of March we had quite a number of cases of La Grippe; but only one very serious case of illness. This was a case of facial erysipelas, which however made a good recovery. Just after the burning of the Citadel and our change of quarters, the German measles became epidemic in the city and a large number of

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Cadets were affected by it. The disease was, however, of a very mild type; but with the preceding epidemic doubtless had much to do with the serious cases of continued fever which ensued in April and May. These cases are as follows:
E. L. Ready, P. Cadet, 3^rd Class, Edgefield Co.
Sent home Apr. 27. Now convalescent but his attending physician advised against his return to duty this session.
W. G. Fike – “B” Cadet, 3^rd Class – Laurens, Co.
Sent home Apr 28 - ; returned, - remained two weeks, but looked so badly that the surgeon advised his going back home to escape a relapse. His physician advises against his return to duty this session.
J. L. Barnwell, “B” Cadet, 3^rd Class Beaufort Co.
Sent home Apr 23; died two weeks after
W. H. Jackson, P. Cadet 3^rd Class Charleston Co.
Sent home, - made good recovery, and is now on duty.
D. Huguenin, “P” Cadet 1^st Class Charleston Co,
Sent home May 14; is still dangerously ill.
E. R. Wallace, P. Cadet 4^th Class Union Co.
Having had fever three or four days was furloughed on June 26^th. But his case has not developed into one of typhoid fever.

[Page 33]
W. Jervey – “B” Cadet 3^rd Class, Charleston Co By a strange accident broke his thigh bone May 3^rd, and is still at home unfit for duty.
The occurrence of the above cited case of fever and the lamentable death of young Barnwell, naturally gave rise to much uneasiness, and some very exaggerated reports were put in circulation. In view of this I beg to make the following statement,
As soon as the Cadets were moved into the quarters at the Roper Hospital, which had not been occupied since the earthquake except by the Keeper and his family, I gave attention to the hygiene environments of the premises. Much of the plumbing work had to be repaired and the sewage drains to be cleaned out and repaired and altered. Water closet facilities had to be increased and a large quantity of detritus and filth accumulations had to be removed from the Marion Hospital premises. All this was immediately taken in hand, and a liberal and continuous use of disinfectants and all proper prophylactic measures have been taken. The cleaning and disinfecting of the vaults was done during the first week of our removal, and while the the [sic] weather was still cool enough to require the building to be artificially heated day and night. From that time to the present I have insisted on a lavish use

[Page 34]
of white wash, chloride of lime, [bichloride of nurcury], and permanganate of potash in the drains, water pipes, rooms, and yards. The cistern at the Roper Hospital is quite small, and under the heavy draft upon it during dry weather in the months of April and May it was necessary to replenish it with water from the large cisterns at the Citadel. This large cistern, as you know, has been isolated from all possible contamination. It was filled with winter water, and at the time of the fire was shut off from the roof drainage, consequently it received none of the hydrant water used in extinguishing the fire. The two small cisterns were not shut off, and the water in them was strongly charged with lye and creosote, and was therefore not used. The water in the large cistern was, and is, pure and sweet. The fact that between forty and sixty working men employed in reconstructing the Citadel have constantly and freely used the water since the 1^st of April and no fever or sickness of any kind has been developed among them, seems to me conclusive as to the innocuousness of the water. Every Academic Officer except Capt. Mazyck and Lt White have been sick to some extent this spring, and Lt Johnson is the only one of the number who used this water, I think therefore that the course of the fever must

[Page 35]
be looked for elsewhere than in the local surroundings of Roper Hospital, and the use of the Citadel water supplied to the Cadets. The prevalence of La Grippe, and the German measles followed by the drought in April which permitted the atmosphere to become loaded with organic dust; furnished, it seems to me, all the conditions necessary for the development of the fever among the Cadet and among many citizens in the community. It may not be improper to add, Mr Nard the Keeper of Roper Hospital, and his family of seven persons in all, who have occupied this building for several years, and since our coming here have been in circumscribed quarters, leave behind no fever although subject to the same local conditions and using the same water as the Cadets.

[Written on side of page.]
Insurance and Losses

[Main page.]
All insurance chains have been fully paid into the hands of Maj. C. S. Gadsden as attorney for the Governor. In my report to the Chairman, the loss on Academic books was estimated at $476.49, the invoice bills being used as data; and the loss on library books was estimated at $300; the catalogue of publishers being used for prices. Making allowance for the worn condition of many of the former, some of which

[Page 36]
had been in use for several years, the first amount was reduced to $386.80; and a bid to duplicate the lost Library books for $213.20 was made by a responsible New York dealer. Consequently the claim on the National Ins. Co. for furniture and books was satisfactorily settled as follows:
On furniture cash $950
On furniture damaged, bot in by Q.M. 50.
On text books 386.80
On Library books 213.20
1600.00
Received from Maj. Gadsden
Cash 1336.80
Dam’g’d furniture 50.00 1386.80
Bal. in Maj. Gadsden’s hands for Library books - $213.00

[Written on side of page.]
Present States of Insurance Policies

[Main page.]
The policies on the Academic furniture and on the Academic text books have been exhausted and the policies have been surrendered. The policies on the Laboratory, on the Library, and on the two wings of the Citadel are in full force; but over 50% of the insurance on the main building has been paid in to cover loss. It will be necessary to have the furniture, text-books, and the main building protected by new insurance. As the policies were written to cover both the wings and the main building, it will be best to surrender the present policies upon the return premium allowance for unexpired time and take out new policies. This will

[Page 37]
make the premium and renewal dates the same. I have requested the agents to make the necessary calculations to effect these changes, and I shall submit their estimates to you as soon as I receive them. The loss on physical apparatus amounting to $78.17 was not recovered, because the articles lost were not at the time of the fire, in the Laboratory described in the policy, but were in the classroom of the assistant professor of physics, located in the basement of the of the [sic] main building. I would respectfully recommend that a part of the unexpended balance of Library fund be used to replace this loss.

[Written on side of page.]
Insurance on Arms

[Main page.]
In connection with the subject of insurance I have to report that in compliance with the letter from the Ordnance Office U. S., herewith submitted (enclosure marked “A”) I secured a policy on the ordnance and ordnance stores issued to the Academy by the War Department, covering for one year the amount of $4300 through the agency of Messrs Pelzer and Robertson, Charleston S.C.

[Written on side of page.]
Donations for Benefit of Cadets

[Main page.]
Since my report to the chairman dated March 23rd the amount given by the "Lady Friends of the Cadets" for replenishing the wardrobes of Cadets, was increased to $1094.45. On the 30th of April I received from His Honor, the Mayor of Charleston the enclosed letter (marked "B") accompanied

[Page 38]
by a check for $500. Of this amt. $427. were applied to replacing drawing instruments of Cadets destroyed by the fire, and the remainder was applied to their clothing amount. My acknowledgment of the receipt of this donation will be found appended to enclosure “B”.

[Written on side of page.]
Academic Work

[Main page.]
I have this year confined myself to he work prescribed by the Regulations, with the exception of pro re nata lectures on subjects of the text books used in moral and political science, and also lectures on pedagogy, mainly for the benefit of the State Cadets who are under obligations to teach in the “Free Public Schools of the State.” The class as a whole has accomplished the work in a fairly satisfactory manner; but some of its numbers have shown in the last half of the year considerable irregularity in the preparation of the text book matter. I believe this lack of assiduity to be due to conviction on the part of these members that the aggregate marks on all their [illegible] would give a sufficient margin above the minimum to render such negligence free from danger.
I submit herewith the reports of the professors as to the work done in their several departments. (Packet marked “C”) I enclose also the record of the first class for the full course, and upon which they were graded for graduation

[Page 39]
(Enclosure “D”).The grades of the other classes will be given in the annual register.

[Written on side of page.]
Debating Societies and Y.M.C.A.

[Main page.]
The two debating societies have kept up their weekly meetings with becoming spirit, and the Y.M.C.A. has held its meetings twice a week with Bible lessons on Sunday mornings. The membership numbers 79 - of which 35 are active, and 44 associate numbers. I regard the existence and work of this association as of very high value to the Academy and that it would be wise to give it encouragement by setting apart a room for its regular use. A definite recommendation for this purpose will be submitted by me at your annual meeting next November.
The report of the finances of the institution will be submitted at your annual meeting in November
Very respectfully your
Obedient servant
Asbury Coward
Supt.
July 7th 1892

[Page 40]
Exhibit “A” -
Ordnance Office
War Department
Washington May 3 1892

Sir
The Secretary of War has decided that all colleges or other institutions having arms or other public property belonging to the Government must keep the same fully insured against loss to the United States by fire.
The value of the ordnance stores belonging to the United States now in possession of South Carolina Military Academy, Charleston S.C. is $4294.05 as shown on the accompanying list; and you are respectfully notified to insure this property without delay.
Any future issues of arms, etc, to your institution are to be immediately insured.
A failure to promptly insure this property, or to keep alive the policy by the payment of the stated premiums thereon will be considered cause for the withdrawal by the War Department of the arms, etc, belonging to the Government in your possession, and will also be considered cause for adverse report from this office on any application to Congress for relief for any losses by fire.
Respectfully
D.W. Flagler
Brig. Gen. Chief of Ordance

The President of South Carolina Military Academy Charleston
South Carolina

[Page 41]
List of Ordnance and Ordnance Stores in possession of South Carolina Military Academy April 19th 1892 - viz.

Stores Values
2-3 inch wrought iron rifles 900.00
Implements for same 47.05
2 - Gun carriages 650.00
150 - Cadet rifles with appendages 2250.00
150 - sets infantry accoutrements 399.00
8 - arm chests 48.00
Total $4294.05

Exhibit “B”
City of Charleston
Executive Department
April 30 1892

Col. A. Coward
Superintendent of the S.C. Military Academy Dear Sir;
Learning that the Cadets of the South Carolina Military Academy have suffered personal losses in the destruction, by the recent fire at the Citadel, of some of their clothing and effects, and especially of their drawing instruments, I hasten in the name of the City Council of Charleston to enclose herewith a check to your order for Five Hundred Dollars, to be applied, by you towards the restoration of the property so destroyed.
The people of Charleston feel a deep personal interests in the welfare of the Cadets, and as their official representatives, we gladly

[Page 42]
avail ourselves of this opportunity to give some faint evidence thereof.
With assurances of profound sympathy and in the hope that a complete restoration of the Institution will soon be effected,
I have the honor to be
Yours respectfully
Jno. F. [Fuken]
Mayor

Charleston March 22d 92
Col. Coward
Commandant S. C. Military Academy
City
Dr Sir
Having after a great calamity been the recipients of material assistance and kind sympathy, which restored our homes, warmed our hearts and awakened those feelings which make “all the world akin,” so now we, with recollections still vivid, in the same spirit desire to assist the Cadets who have suffered from the recent fire.
The State and City should and no doubt will, aid in the restoration of the Citadel, but we as mothers and sisters offer our help and sympathy to the youths under your command and care.
We beg therefore your acceptance for them of the accompanying $1094.45, to be distributed at your discretion in replenishing the wardrobe according to their needs

[Page 43]
and losses.
We are pleased to state that our efforts to collect this find met with generous response and kindly sentiment from the citizens generally.
With the best wishes for the future of the Citadel, your Corps, and yourself,
We are the
Lady Friends of the Cadets

To the “Lady Friends of the Cadets”
Charleston S.C.
Dear Ladies
Your touching letter, and the magnificent offering “of help and sympathy” accompanying it, were received this afternoon through the hands of Captain Stowey. I can not find fitting words to express my profound admiration and gratitude for the gift, for the spirit that prompted it, and for the delicate manner in which it was conveyed. I can only say that I accept the fund as a sacred trust, and that I shall carry out your wishes as I would exercise a religious privilege.
I am with great respect
Your obedient servant
Asbury Coward
Superintendent

[Page 44]
Exhibit “C”
S.C.M.A.
July 3 1892

The
Superintendent
S.C.M.A.
Sir:
I have the honor to report that the work of the Department of Military Science and Tactics, for the past year has been as required by the Regulations.
I desire to call attention to the unsatisfactory work of the First Class, since the standard required of them has been lowered.
Very respectfully
Your Obdt Servant
Jno. A. Towers
2nd Lt. 1st Arty
Prof. Military Science and Tactics

The Citadel
South Carolina Military Academy
Charleston S.C. July 2nd 1892
Col. Asbury Coward, Supt;
Dear Sir
In reporting the work done in the department of English Literature and History during the last half of the academic year, I beg leave to state that the prescribed course of studies has been pursued by the classes in my charge. The Second Class

[Page 45]
has studied Intellectual Philosophy, using as a text book Alden’s manual. Lectures and readings were given in addition, and this study was finished in the latter part of May. During the month of June one of Shakespeare’s plays was critically studied, and lectures were given on Shakespeare’s style, grammar, and versification.
The Third Class studies were Logic and Rhetoric, the text books being Jevon’s Elementary Logic, and Hill’s Elements of Rhetoric.
The First and Second Classes submitted original essays in English, and were required to attend lectures on library composition and criticism.
The fire at the Citadel retarded the progress of the cadets in their studies. There was delay in replacing the text books that were burned and the removal of the corps to the Roper Hospital interrupted easy access to the books of the library. On account of these disadvantages it is difficult to judge of the comparative worth of the new standard of grading. But leaving out of the question the recitation marks of the cadets, I feel from intercourse of instructor and pupil that the spirit of the cadet toward his studies under the new rule is inferior to that

[Page 46]
manifested last year.
I forward herewith the report of the Assistant Professor of English Literateur [sic] and History. Respectfully submitted
St James Cummings
Major and Professor of
English Literateur [sic] and History

At The Citadel
Charleston S.C. July 5 1892

Maj. St James Cummings
Prof. English S.C.M.A.
Charleston S.C.
Dear Sir
I have the honor to report that the Fourth Class has completed under my instructions, the course in English prescribed by the regulations, viz; English Grammar and English History, and that as to the majority of the class, the progress made has been satisfactory.
I have not however found the text books altogether satisfactory. The grammar in use seems to me badly arranged and rather difficult for the class of students who study it while the English History seems to me to pay too little attention to the Cadets and customs of the people, and too much, in proportion, to the

[Page 47]
political events of various reigns.
I would suggest also that it seems to me it would be advantageous to change the order in which these two subjects are studied. The English History, being easier, might be studied during the first session and the grammar during the last. Very Respectfully
C. Edward Johnson
Assistant Professor of English

South Carolina Military
Academy - July 4th 1892

Col. Asbury Coward
Sir: -
I have the honor to submit the following report on the work done in the Department of Chemistry and Physics during the academic year just closing. The work in the entire department has been carried on as laid down in the regulations, but I am sorry to say with very unsatisfactory results owing to a number of causes.
In the first place, from the loss of time and use of the laboratory and equipment caused by the fire which drove us from our quarters; secondly from the great inequality in the size of

[Page 48]
the classes, which made it necessary for me to take personal charge of the fourth class in addition to the work which I have carried on in previous years; and thirdly, from the change in the regulations as to the requirement for graduation and promotion. The effect of this change on the first & graduating class has been most grievous and pronounced, on the second, less so but still quite evident and on the fourth I am not able to say, as I have never before taught a fourth class with which to compare this one.
I have been compelled to give more daily marks of “Z” to members of the first class since the semi-annual examination, when the cadets became aware of the import of the change in requirements that I have during the whole time previous, that I have been connected with the institution. The effect of the change has not been a direct one on the members of better standing in the classes but it has had a decided indirect effect on them in the way of a general demoralization.
It is a well known fact, that in every school, there is a certain percentage of students whose only desire is to get through and their degree of proficiency is quite accurately measured by the

[Page 49]
requirements for promotion or graduation. Now under the present requirements it is possible for a cadet to fail to reach the requirements 9 points out of 15 in five departments and still receive his diploma. He can fail very badly in two, in fact do absolutely nothing in two, such as Physics and Mathematics, and still receive his diploma. Really I do not see how a cadet can fail to receive his diploma unless he makes up his mind to do so. The demoralizing influence of the presence of a number of such students in a class is evident. It is not only a demoralizing influence on the better students, but also on the instructor, and the presence of such indifferent persons in a class uses up much valuable time which could be profitably utilized for the benefit of those whose aim is to do well.
I wish to call to the attention of the Superintendent again, some facts mentioned in my report of last November, namely; those referring to the daily marking system, the loss of valuable time rendered necessary by its use, and its thorough incompatibility with modern methods of scientific teaching, and the suggestion made for adopting in its stead a system of monthly trial examinations

[Page 50]
of one hour or two for the purpose of grading. I wish to say special stress on this recommendation as it will not necessitate any radical change in the general methods.
I wish also again to call attention to the necessity of adopting some course by which we will be enabled to teach the science of chemistry by actual experimental done by the students themselves. The great end to be attained by such practical work, as is well known, is to train the mind of the youth in methods of observation and original thought.
The objection to the present method is that the student tends to study what a book says or what a professor says rather than what nature would teach him; he does not get into a scientific way of thinking which is the object of scientific study rather than the mere learning of a series of facts
The work done by the third class in my department has been carried on by Lieutenant Coleman whose report is hereby submitted.
Very respectfully your obedient
servant
Chas. L. Reese
Major & Professor of Chemistry
and Physics

[Page 51]
Major C. L. Reese
Prof. Chemistry and Physics
Sir: -
I have the honor to submit the following report of the work in Physics:
The First Class has been engaged in the study of Light, Sound, and Electricity. Owing to our interruption in March I could not expect such satisfactory work to be done as we obtained at the Academy.
The upper half of the class had, with a few exceptions, done well; but with the others, as a rule, the work has been rather spasmodic. In a few cases there has been no attempt to do the work properly. In the subjects of sound and electricity I have shown more class-room experiments than in any previous year. Members of the class have been shown the generation and application of electricity at the Electric Station. I have taken the class to the Academy to illustrate the principle of lenses, prisms, and [illegible].
I respectfully suggest that my class-room is entirely too small either for its use as a lecture room or for recitation purposes. The cases for holding apparatus do not protect from dust - the ones now in use are those discarded from the chemical

[Page 52]
laboratory. We lost several pieces of apparatus as a consequence of the recent fire at the Academy, these should be replaced and others added. I recommend that steps be taken to allow students to do laboratory work in Physics. This can be done with a comparatively small outlay; and the advantage of this method in real teaching can not be overestimated.
The course in science as taught here should be remodeled. I find that quite a number of cadets have studied Physical Geography before entering the Academy. It can be made a subject for examination on entrance, as the schools can easily put the candidates through it, but I am of the opinion that it may be dropped from the course either as to entrance requirement or class study. It deals with subjects taken up afterwards in Physics, Astronomy, Chemistry and Geology. The time devoted to it, four and a half months, would be productive of more good if distributed among these subjects when they are taken up in detail. The subject of Phisiology [sic] should follow some instruction in Chemistry and Physics. The teaching of the more difficult parts of Physics should be delayed until after the students have finished Geometry and Plane Trigonometry; this is notably the case with Dynamics - at once

[Page 53]
the most difficult part of the subject and that upon which the whole service is based. I therefore recommend that the course be changed to the following: Fourth Class, Science [illegible] in Physics and Chemistry to familiarize them with the study and give the information required by many of the leading schools for entrance. Third Class, Physiology and Hygiene for three months, Physics for an advanced grade six months. Second Class, Chemistry Inorganic and Organic. First Class (Mineralogy) Geology, and Astronomy.
This schedule is respectfully submitted in the belief that the elimination of Physical Geography and Mineralogy would give more time to the remaining subjects and allow more thorough work to be done than is now possible with such a great number. In conclusion I call your attention to the fact that the lowering of the standard required of Cadets has been attended by a corresponding low grade of work by them except in the case of those who are ambitions and who need no incentive to do their whole duty.
Very respectfully
Lt. J. T. Coleman
Asst. Prof. Chemistry & Physics

[Page 54]
July 4 1892
As regards the remoddeling [sic] of the course, it is my opinion that it is rather a matter for the consideration of the Academic board.
Very respectfully submit to the
Superintendent
Chas. L. Reese

Citadel, Charleston S.C.
July 4th 1892

Maj. C. L. Reese
Prof. Chemistry and Physics
Dear Sir
I beg to submit through you the following report of the work done in Astronomy by the First Class during the last term.
The Class has recited twice a week in this department. The progress has been, on the whole, satisfactory, and I am glad to say that in a few instances a very gratifying interest was manifested. The need of a better text-book is urgent. The text-book used (Newcomb & Holden’s) was prepared for much lower grade students than our first-class. I would strongly recommend the adoption as a text-book of Young’s Astronomy, the publisher of which offer a fair discount and exchange price
The class has used the

[Page 55]
the telescope in observing all celestial objects of interest that are visible with an instrument of its power.
Very respectfully
O. J. Bond
Asst. Prof. Math. in charge
Drawing and Book-keeping

The Citadel
Charleston S.C. July 4 1892

Col. Asbury Coward
Supt
Sir: - In accordance with your instructions, I have the honor to make the following report for the Dept. of Mathematics and Engineering.
The 4th Class has been instructed in Algebra by Lieut Johnson, whose report is herewith transmitted.
The 3rd Class have completed the course in Plane and Solid Geometry, and surveying.
Two sections of this class were instructed by me; the other two sections were in charge of Lieut Bond, whose report is forwarded. In connection with Surveying the members of the Class have been taught by actual experience how to use and adjust the Transit and Level. It is purposed to give them some field work during the approaching encampment.

[Page 56]
The 2nd Class have been employed under my charge upon Analytical Geometry and upon the Calculus. The 1st Class has been instructed by me in Analytical Mechanics and in applied Mechanics. This is the course in Civil Engineering proper, and much attention is given to the principles and methods used in the determination of the stability of bridges, roof, arches, dams, and other structures, and to the proper designing of such structures. The Calculus is used to advantage in the treatment of many questions in the course.
I consider the 1st Class course of importance even to those students who do not expect to become civil engineers. Apart from the mental training involved the student is enabled to see the great utility of the higher mathematics in solving questions of practical importance. The erroneous impression that the higher branches of mathematics are valuable only as mental gymnastics, is removed, when it is found what a powerful instrument the Calculus is in unlocking the secrets of nature.
It is obvious that the student who has failed to accomplish the established course in pure mathematics is in no condition to appreciate and accomplish this advanced course.

[Page 57]
Under present conditions however it happened that such a student is nevertheless advanced and required to undertake this course.
Unless by extra effort he recovers lost ground, his failure is almost inevitable. If, however he has done fairly well in one or two other departments, he is, by the standard now in force not debarred from receiving the diploma in Academy. In my opinion the Diploma should be conferred only on those who accomplish the studies of each and every department. In cases where the student is unable to do this, or where he must leave the Academy before he has done so, a certificate of graduation might be given in those departments, the studies of which he has satisfactorily accomplished. A distinction should be made at graduation between those students who have accomplished the whole course and those who have only partially done so. In my opinion the relaxing of the requirements for advancement from one Class to another has had no effect upon those who have a proper sense of their duty, or who are imbued with the desire to excell [sic]. With some, however, one incentive to effort, the fear of failure has been removed.

[Page 58]
In response to your request, I have fully freely expressed my views.
I am very respectfully
your obedient servant
Robt. G. Thomas
Prof. Math. and Engineering

Charleston S. C. July 5 1892

Maj. R. G. Thomas
Prof Math S. C. M. A.
Charleston S. C.
Dear Sir
I have the honor to report that the fourth class has, under my instruction, completed, the course in Mathematics prescribed by the regulations, and that as to the majority of the class, the progress made has been satisfactory.
This being my first year, I am unable to say whether or not the progress made compares favorably with that of former years.
Very Respectfully
C. Edward Johnson

[Page 59]
Citadel Charleston
July 4th 1892
Maj. R. G. Thomas
Prof. Math. and Engineering
Dear Sir: -
I have the honor to submit the following report of the work done by the 3rd & 4th sections of the Third Class during the last term in mathematics. The first month was devoted to spherical trigonometry. Since then, they have recited daily in Davies’ Surveying. The mathematical instruments of the department have been little used, but it is expected that some field work will be done during the encampment. The limits of the Academy grounds do not admit of much practical work, but if it is desired that special emphasis be laid on this, no doubt arrangement can be made to exercise the class more fully in the use of instruments by actual work in the field during the session within the limits of the City. Comparing the work done by this Class with that done last year, I would give as my opinion that the question of standard, whether high or low, has very little, if any, effect upon the work and attainments of the upper half of the Class.

[Page 60]
In the lower half, there are some whose only motive to work has been removed, and the deterioration of these is plainly evidenced by the marks they have made. In mathematics, especially where the knowledge of one book is so essential to a comprehension of the next higher, some requirements seem absolutely necessary; but under the present rule, a student may systematically and entirely ignore one subject and yet be advanced to the next class. This is a question of vital information; and has occupied, of course the best thought of the Board of Visitors. My remarks are made in the frankness which I esteem the Board desires from each instructor in order that it may have all the information possible before it. It would be better in my opinion, to have some requirements in mathematics, - say 50 or 60% - for advancement or else make the higher books in that subject elective.
Respectfully
O. J. Bond
Asst. Prof. Math.

[Page 61]
Citadel
Charleston S.C. July 6th 1892
To
Col. Asbury Coward Supt.
Sir
I beg leave to report that notwithstanding the untoward circumstances attending a part of this term the course contemplated has been carried out, without any appreciable modification, as fortunately had no changes either in hours or division of classes - I am glad to be able to state that any fears that might have been entertained as to the demoralizing effects of the new environments consequent upon the burning of the Citadel, have not been realized. The recitations have been as a rule good - in some classes there have been gratifying instances of improvement. The department has been excellent.
I believe that the general standing of the classes compares favorably with previous years.
Very resply
P. P. Mazyck
Capt. and Instructor Mod. Lang.

[Page 62]
Citadel, Charleston, S. C.
July 4th 1892
Col. Asbury Coward
Supt
Dear Sir: -
In obedience to your request, I submit herewith my report of the department of Drawing and Book-keeping. This department suffered a set back of about a month owing to the fire of March 14th, which destroyed all the drawing instruments of a great number of Cadets. I am glad to report that the equipment of the department - the instruments belonging to the Academy, - suffered no loss of consequence. A number of drawing models were spoiled by water but these can all be replaced for five dollars.
The first class has recited every other day in book-keeping. The progress attained was not what I wished or expected, but I believe that they understand very thoroughly the principles of double entry. It is in business practice that their attainment has fallen short. If this class recited daily, the time given would be ample, but I believe it would be better to start the class in this subject on the 1st January in order to accomplish it thoroughly.
The second class has made

[Page 63]
very satisfactory progress in architectural drawing. They draw every other day.
The third class has lost less time than any, as I utilized the time while waiting for new instruments in lecturing on shades and shadows. I have modified the course somewhat in descriptive geometry according to the place discussed with you. The topographic drawing, which naturally goes with the surveying, has heretofore followed it in the succeeding session. This year I discontinued the descriptive geometry in April and took up topography, - deferring isometric and perspective drawing to the next session, where they more properly belong. I would like very much to have the department supplied with suitable drawing tables on our return to the Citadel, if possible. It would require an expenditure of about one hundred and twenty five dollars.
Respectfully
O. J. Bond
Asst. Prof. Math. in charge Department Drawing and Book-keeping

[Page 64]
Columbia
Sept 2d 1892

The Board of Visitors convened at the Hotel Jerome at 10.30 A.M. Present -
Gen Hagood - Chairman
Dr Jones
Maj. Gadsden
Gen Moor
Col. Thomas

The following applications for permission to appear in the Competitive Examination for the Beneficiary appointments of 1892 were considered and acted on favorably.
Abbeville
Hill Wm Henry Moseley - Robert. E.
McDavid J. E. Rogers - E. J.
Lee Rudolph E. Thompson - J. C.
Speer G. W.
Barnwell
Calhoun J. S. Matthews J. S.
Eaves - Jas. M. Riley Sam L.
Martin S. M. Sannders Robt. C.
Charleston
Chreitzberg A. M. Jackson Wm K.
Fishburne C. C. Langley P. G.
Ward E. K.
Colleton
Ackerman S. J. Carter H. M.
Bellinger E. Garris S. P. J.
Wilson L. M. J.
Edgefield
Broadwater R. N. Latimer C. S.
Carvile S. W. Nicholson S. K.
Crovick H. V. Perry H. B.

[Page 65]
Edgefield - (Continued)
Jones - Lewis Penn Riser D. R.
Marion
Carmichael S. W. Lewis - H. A.
Clark - Robert K. Lewis - Taylor
Cousar - H. C. Liles - J. S.
Orangeburg
Heidlman E. H. Marchant A. H.
Jennings J. F. Mosely Robt. C.
Langley H. M. Salley N. M.
Richland
Craig Marion B. Heyward H. G.
McMaster - P. A.
Sumter
Baskins E. Haynsworth G. E.
Bradley W. M. McLeod D. C.
Dickson Geo. L. McLeod L. M.
Green E. F. Spann L. D.
Union
Graham C. M. Murphy B. G.
Long Jas. G. Stokes Robert L.
York
Allison J. B. Mason S. M.
Adikes H. F. McConnell J. M.
Black F. R. Moore S. R.
Dagnall A. N. Williams G. W.
Hagen Jno. S. Owens J. H.

The following applications were considered and action taken thereon as below, to wit;
Marion
Case of Eugene S. Bethea
Resolved - That in the opinion of the Board, the showing made of property and income, is not such as to entitle applicant to a Beneficiary ap-

[Page 66]
pointment - Application is therefore rejected
Case of Clarence B. Smith
Resolved - That application be rejected. In the opinion of the Board, the Parent is possessed of too much property to entitle the son to a Beneficiary appointment.
Orangeburg
Case of Thos. Z. Tyler
Resolved - That application be rejected. In the opinion of the Board, the Parent is possessed of too much property to entitle the son to a Beneficiary appointment.
Richland
Case of Jas. Lindley Flinn
Resolved - That the application be rejected, on the ground of non-residence. Under the rule which governs the Board, the legal residence of the applicant, who is a minor, is the residence of the Parent.
Sumter
Case of Elisha Carson
Resolved. That application be rejected. In the opinion of the Board, the showing of property made is not such as to entitle the applicant to a Beneficiary appointment.

Case of N. G. Osteen
Resolved - That in the opinion of the Board the Parent is possed [sic] of too much property, to entitle

[Page 67]
the son to a Beneficiary appointment. The application is therefore rejected.
- Union -
Case of R. G. Hamilton
Resolved - That application be reject. In the opinion of the Board, the showing of property made is not such as to entitle the applicant to a Beneficiary appointment.
Case of Jas. F. McClure
Resolved - That application be rejected. In the opinion of the Board, the Parent of applicant is possessed of too much property to entitle the son to a Beneficiary appointment.

Board adjourned at 1.30 P.M. to meet again at 8 P.M.

Board met at 8 P.M. Present the same members, who were in attendance at morning session. The Chairman read for the information of the Board the Report of Col. Lawton Inspect. Gen. U. S. A. of his inspection of the Academy

The Board then adjourned
Butler Hagood
Acting Secy.

[Page 68]
Charleston S. C.
1 Nov 1892

The Board met at 12 PM at the Citadel
Present
Genl Johnson Hagood Chairman
Dr S. B. Jones
Maj C. S. Gadsden
Mr A M Youmans
Genl J M Moore
Col Jno P Thomas
H. A Gaillard

The Superintendent submitted his report of the operations of the Academy since July last and of receipts and disbursements for past fiscal year - which [illegible] hereto appended.
On motion of Maj C S Gadsden
It was Ordered
That the accounts of the Superintendent be referred to Genl J M Moore and Mr A M Youmans as a Special Committee to examine and report theron to the Board at its next meeting
The following resolution was adopted
Resd

[Written on side of page.]
Annual Commencements

[Main page.]
That the Commencement exercises be postponed hereafter until after the annual encampments, and that the Superintendent be directed to report to the Board the changes in the Regulations necessary to carry into effect this action of the Board

Case of Cadet Salley
This was a protest by Mr Langley and Breckwith of Orangeburg against the

[Page 69]
appointment of Cadet Salley as a Beneficiary Cadet, upon the grounds that the Father of the Cadet had received a lucrative office since the action of the Board.
After hearing the statement of Mr Langley in behalf of the protest and of Mr T M Rayser in opposition
It was resolved -
That Cadet Salley be retained as a Beneficiary from Orangeburg Co. in the South Carolina Military Academy, during the ensuing scholastic year.

Case of Cadet Ready

This was an application by Cadet Ready of - to have his payment as a Pay Cadet reduced on account of long absence during the past Academic year caused by protracted illness.
After consideration it was Ordered
That in consequence of protracted illness on the part of Cadet Ready during the past Academic year, and alleged inability to to [sic] pay the whole fee due by him, he be credited with one quarterly installment payable by him to the Academy.

The Board then adjourned to meet tomorrow at 10 A M at the Citadel
H. A. Gaillard

[Page 70]
Citadel - Charleston SC
2 Nov 1892
The Board assembled at 10 AM pursuant to adjournment
Present
Same members -

Case of Cadet McCall

Application in behalf of Cadet McCall suspended for receiving over two hundred demerits during the past year, reinstated in the Academy
After full consideration
It was Resd -
That the Board of Visitors have been impressed with the concern shown by the Parents of Cadet McCall in their sons behalf
The Board regret however that they find it inconsistent with duty to relax the impartial rule of the Regulations in the matter of the members of the 4th Class who incur more than 200 demerit marks.
Ordered
That the suspension of Cadet McCall be confirmed and that he be dismissed from the Academy.

The Committee [illegible] on yesterday to examine the accts & vouchers for the past year reported that they had made such examination as was practicable in the limited time and find the same correct.

Case of Vacancies from Beaufort Co

[Page 71]
This was an application from other counties to fill vacancies occurring in Beaufort Co
The following action was taken by the Board “Considering the fact that no application has been made from Beaufort Co to fill the Beneficiary vacancies existing in that County
It is the opinion of the Board that it has no power under the Law to fill said vacancies from Applicants not residing in Beaufort”

[Written on side of page.]
Genl Average

[Main page.]
The Matter of “General Average” in class standing was carefully considered by the Board in pursuance of recommendations of Academic Board and the following resolution was adopted Resd
That the matter be referred to a special committee consisting of Col J P Thomas and Dr S B Jones to examine & report theron to the Board at its next meeting

The following Resolution was proposed to the Board and adopted
Resd
That the Superintendent be instructed in his discretion, of practicable to add to the mess fund, by a reduction in the clothing in other funds -

Maj C S Gadsden, submitted a account of funds expended by him in repair of Citadel Buildings Ordered
That the Report of Maj Gadsden be

[Page 72]
spread upon the minutes of the Board -

Commencement

The Superintendent submitted to the Board the following resolution which was adopted.
“Unless otherwise specially directed by the Board the Commencement day shall hereafter occur on the last day of the Annual encampment at which time the result of the annual examination will be announced

The Board then adjourned
H A Gaillard

Citadel November 1st 1892
To the Board of Visitors of the
South Carolina Military Academy
Gentlemen: I have the honor to submit the following report for the period elapsed since the commencement exercises of the Academy, July 8th 1892.
On Saturday, the 9th of July, the corps was transported to Sullivan’s Island, where a camp had been laid out and prepared by the Quartermaster, under my direction, on the U.S. Reservation in the rear of Fort Moultrie, the use of which had been kindly granted by the Secretary of War. The next day, Sunday, the island was visited by a violent rain storm, which so flooded the grounds as

[Page 73]
to necessitate several days work to ditch and dry them out. This work, and the instruction of the Cadets in the duty of camp guard and police, occupied the greater part of the first week. The second week was spent in such exercises in the extended order drill and target practice as the weather, which was persistently bad, would permit. The disadvantages of going on an encampment with all the Cadet officers newly promoted and appointed were seriously felt, and I beg to emphasize the recommendation previously made by the Commandant of Cadets and myself that the encampment take place before commencement day. I am glad to state that no accident happened to any of the Cadets during the encampment, and that, notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, they had no serious sickness, and several who seemed somewhat run down at the close of the Academic session recuperated fully, before the camp was broken. The corps was brought back to quarters at Roper Hospital on the afternoon of July 22d and furloughed from the morning of the 23d to noon October 1st.
On the 1st of October we had the happenings of resuming our work in the restored Citadel. The enrollment was as follows

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On the roll after commencement 109
Honorably discharged since commencement 2 Absent without leave 3 5
Total 104
Recruits 33
Total enrollment 137

Total enrollment 137
* Absent, sick 1
Under suspension (McColl) 1 2
Present for duty 135
*Cadet W. Jervey

Beneficiary Cadets enrolled 66
Pay Cadets enrolled 71
Total 137

Scheme of recitations
Battalion organization

The work of the new Academic year has begun without friction anywhere, and has progressed this far with highly satisfactory smoothness and regularity. There are a few minor matters of incompleteness and defects in the building, which will be soon remedied, either by the contractor or the Quartermaster. It is highly desirable that the wings of the building be color-washed, to correct-spond in that tint with the main building. The cost of this work would be about $250.00. As a large part of the insurance on the buildings was exhausted by the rebuilding of the burnt part, it was

[Page 75]
deemed advisable to reinsure the whole for the original amount, $37,500.00, distributed as follows:
On main building $23,500.00
On the two wings, each $7,000 14,000.00
$37,500.00
The new insurance is for three years, beginning August 1st 1892, and the additional premium paid out of Academic fund amounted to $333.18.
As required by circular letter from the War Department, I have had the ordnance and ordnance stores issued to the Academy by the United States Government insured to the amount of $4,300, for one year from May 9th 1892, at the premium cost of $36.55.
The Academic furniture and text-books have not yet been insured, because until now the deficiencies had not been fully supplied. They ought now to be insured to the amount of $25.00 for three years. The premium to effect this will be $42.50. I respectfully recommend that the Legislature be asked to provide by special appropriation for the amount of these premiums and unprovided for losses sustained by the fire and for the color washing of the two wings. As shown by accompanying statement (s) the amount required would be $2,053.61.
In conclusion, I would respectfully urge that the Board take into consideration at this meeting the effect of the change made in the

[Page 76]
Regulations (Par 40) at the last annual meeting, as brought to its attention in the reports made by myself and other members of the Faculty last June.
Very respectfully
Asbury Coward
Superintendent

Report of Maj. Gadsden

Charleston S.C. Oct. 18 1892
Gen. Johnson Hagood,
Chairman Board of Visitors
South Carolina Military Academy
Dear Sir: I have the honor to submit the following report of the repairs of the Citadel, following the disastrous fire of the 14th March last:
Under the authority of Governor Tillman, the moneys paid by the insurance companies holding policies on the burnt building, furniture, books, &c, were expended as shown in the report to the Executive, a copy of which is herewith attached
The City Council of Charleston appropriated fifteen hundred ($1,500.00) dollars for new improvements, which amount was subject to the control of the Executive Committee of the Board of Visitors.
This amount was expended as follows:
Five interior walls dividing the attic of the main building into so many separate spaces as a further protection against

[Page 77]
fire. $650.00
Enlarging lower story windows on north and south faces 231.00
Extra flue 15.00
$896.00
Constructing two iron stairs in quadrangle 400.00
Architectural supervision by W. J. Jeffords Jr. 204.00
Total 1500.00

A further amount was received from the Chairman of the Board of Visitors 346.00
Which was expended under his instructions as follows:

Fitting up additional section room 190.00
Inserting a girder under north gallery 60.00 Architectural supervision to end of contract 96.00 346.00
Total $346.00
Amount brought forward 1500.00
Total in all $1846.00 $1846.00

Vouchers for these expenditures attached as follows:
Henry Oliver $896.00
Henry Oliver 250.00
Werner & Sires 400.00
W. J. Jeffords, Jr 300.00 $1846.00

There were thus expended under authority as above stated.
For restoration of main building $16,228.00
To replace furniture and books 1,550.00
Handling books 50.00
$17,828.00

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Money from insurance companies $17828.00
Improvements:
From City Council $1,500.00
From Board of Visitors 346.00 1,846.00
Total $19,674.00

The restoration of the main building, with the improvements introduced, places the present physical condition of the Academy superior to anything heretofore known. There is every reason to be gratified at this satisfactory outcome of the calamity which occurred in March, 1892.
All of which is respectfully submitted
C. S. Gadsden