Minutes of the Board of Visitors of The Citadel, 1893

Minutes of the Board of Visitors of The Citadel, 1893

Official minutes of the governing body of The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina.

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Charleston (S. C.)

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Citadel, Charleston, S.C.
Feb. 21st 1893.

Minutes of the Board of Visitors of the South Carolina Military Academy.
Members of the Board present: Gen. Johnson Hagood, D. B. Jones, C. S. Gadsden, H. L. Farley, J. W. Moore, A. M. Youmans.

The report of the Superintendent of the Academy was read, as follows: -

Superintendent’s Report.,
Charleston, S.C.,
Feb. 21st 1893
Gen. Johnson Hagood
Chairman Bd US. S.C.M.A.
Sir: - The total number of Cadets on the roll at the beginning of the Academic year was 137. - Beneficiaries 66, - Pay, 71.
Casualties to date - Dismissed 1; (McColl)
Hon. Discharged 3; (Gordon, Holmes, Wilson, G.) Permitted to retire 2; (Rigby, Hud.)
Total 6
There are at present on the roll 66 beneficiary cadets and 65 pay cadets. Absent under suspension, three, - Babb, (B), Jackson, (P), and Mills (P). Absent sick, none.
With the exception of 23 cases of mumps of which only two were serious, the health of the Cadets has been remarkably good. The two cases alluded to have recovered and are on duty. There is still one case of mumps in the hospital.
The Academic work, with the exceptions noted in the reports of professors

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herewith submitted, and in the following resolutions of the Academic Board, has been satisfactory.
Resolutions of Academic Board - Feb. 18th 1893 Resolved 1st, That Cadet Dial of the First Class, Cadet Matheson of the Second Class, and Cadet Huguenin of the Third Class be reported to the Board of Visitors as found deficient at the semi-annual examination.
2d, That the said Cadets be allowed the privilege of joining the next lower class
Resolved, - That the attention of the Board of Visitors be called to the record of Cadets Verdier and Woodward of the First Class, who, though making the required general average are reported as grossly deficient in the departments of mathematics and physics.
Resolved that Cadet Schwing of the Third Class be reported to the Board of Visitors as found deficient at the semi-annual examination, and that he be recommended for dismissal.
Dial’s general average 8.998
Verdier’s general average 9.533
Woodward’s general average 10.398
Matheson’s general average 8.825
Huguenin’s general average 8.522
Schwing’s general average 8.210
Reports of Professors
Superintendent’s report as professor.
The work in the department of English, subject, Moral Science, was accomplished by the First Class in a satisfactory manner. Finding that the absence of Lt. Towers

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promised to be of indefinite length, I took up his work with this class Nov. 18th, subject, Military Law, and found the class satisfactorily proficient at the semi-annual examination.
Reports of Maj. Cummings, Maj. Reese, Maj. Thomas, Capt. Mazyck, Lt. Bond, Lt. Coleman, Lt. Johnson.
The instruction of the First Class in Field Fortifications, and Art and Science of War will be given by me, and that of the Second Class in Tactics will be given by Lieut. Coleman, during the ensuing term, or until further arrangements are made for the Military Dept.
Discipline.
I regret to report that there have been many grave breaches of discipline during the past term. A few days after your last annual meeting, Lieut. Jno. A. Towers, U.S.A., Commandant of Cadets, applied for and received an indefinite leave of absence on account of sickness. He went to Summerville in the hope of recuperating; but in this we have been sadly disappointed. He has steadily grown worse, and it is now doubtful that he can recover. This long continued absence of an alert officer specially charged with the details of the discipline has doubtless had its effect in encouraging, or at least offering opportunity for, lapses in discipline on the part of the Cadets. The provision in the Regulations relative to the absence of the Commandant is sufficient only for a short absence of that officer. The next academic officer

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in rank has no opportunity or occasion to familiarize himself with the details of the Commandant’s work, and has, besides, to do his full work as a Professor, while acting as Commandant.
The cases now awaiting your attention and action are the following:
Cadet R. Y. Mills (P) Corpl., 3rd Class, - suspended Nov. - , for maltreatment of a new Cadet.
Cadet R. E. Babb (B) and Cadet W. K. Jackson (P), 2nd Class, suspended Jan. for intoxication.
Cadets St. C. Gwynn (B), J. P. Smith (B), of the 2nd Class, and Cadets L. C. Speers (P) and N. W. DeSaussure (P) of the 3rd Class, for breaking barracks limits Friday night, Feb. 10th. L. C. Speers broke arrest and deserted Friday Feb. 17th.
Cadet W. C. Harllee (P) deficient in conduct, exceeding the limit of demerits for his class (3rd). Cadets Verdier (P) 1st Class and St. C. Gwynn (B) 2nd Class reported by Lt. Coleman for wearing citizen’s clothing on the streets of the City, Sunday, Feb.
Cadet Woodward (B) 1st Class, - reported for insubordination by Maj. C. L. Reese, Feb 1893.

In conclusion I beg to state that all the classes are now regularly engaged upon the allotted work of the second term.
Very respectfully
(signed) Asbury Coward.

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A letter from Col. J. P. Thomas to the Board of Visitors was read, and is hereto annexed. By resolution of the Board, Col. J. P. Thomas is appointed a Committee of one to consider the suggestions in the within letter; and that he report his conclusions to the Board at its meeting in July next.
The Board next considered the Superintendent’s report, and adopted the following resolutions.
1st, Resolved, That so much as bears upon the subject of repealing the rule of Cadets taking Academic stand upon general average be referred to the committee already appointed upon that matter with directions to consider the same in the report which they will make to the Board at its next regular meeting.
2d, Resolved, that the recommendation of the Academic Board in regard to Cadets Dial, Matheson, and Huguenin, who failed to attain the required general average at the recent examination, be adopted, and that these Cadets be allowed the privilege of joining respectively the next lower class. 3d, That Cadet Schwing, reported deficient on the general average, be dismissed in accordance with the recommendation of the Academic Board.
4th Resolved, That the Board do now proceed to the consideration of the matters of discipline brought up by said report.

In the case of Cadets Babb and Jackson, arrested by the police on the

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14th January 1893, - the report of the Chief of Police showing that they were arrested on the charge of being to some extent intoxicated under the influence of liquor; there being no charge of disorderly conduct against them, Resolved, that Cadets Babb and Jackson be publicly reprimanded at Dress Parade, and that they be placed under arrest for the space of one month. That at the end of the period of their arrest, they be required to pass the regular semi-annual examination.
In the case against Cadets Gwynn and Verdier for appearing in the streets of the city in citizen’s dress, the evidence before the Board is on one side, the charge of Prof. Coleman, and on the other, the positive denial of the two Cadets. From the position of Prof. Coleman and the disguises of the alleged Cadets there is room to suppose on his part the possibility of mistake, while upon the part of the Cadet their statement is either true or a wilful, deliberate falsehood. The Board are unwilling to adopt the latter conclusion, and therefore dismiss the case, without any reflection on the course of the Professor, who simply discharged his full duty under the circumstances in making the report.
Case of Cadet Mills.
Be it resolved, that Cadet R. Y. Mills, having been found by the Board guilty of physical maltreatment of a young Cadet, is therefore dismissed from the Academy.
Case of Cadet Harllee
Cadet W. C. Harllee, reported as deficient

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in conduct, having received the limit of demerits for his class, is hereby dismissed from the Academy. Case of Cadet Speers.
Cadet L. C. Speers, having broken arrest and deserted, is hereby expelled from the Academy.
In the case of Cadets Gwynn, J. P. Smith, and DeSaussure, reported for breaking garrison, - the Board, accepting their frank and manly confession, though rather late, are not disposed to inflict upon them the extreme penalty of the law, but in view of the gravity of the offense, the Board expresses its marked disapprobation of such conduct by ordering 1st, That the above Cadets be publicly reprimanded upon parade;
2d, That they be continued under arrest for 30 days from date;
3d, That they each receive ten demerits marks. Signed for Col. A. M. Youmans
by Lt. O. J. Bond

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Citadel, Charleston, S.C.,
June 27th, 1893.

Minutes of the Board of Visitors of the South Carolina Military Academy.
Dr. Jones in the chair.

[Written on the side of the page.]
General Average

[Main page.]
The matter in regard to the report on general average shall be discussed at the September meeting in Columbia.

[Written on the side of the page.]
Parker Scheme

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The subject matter of the “Parker Scheme” was referred to Major Gadsden and Col. A. M. Youmans to make a report to the Board as to what action may be taken in the matter.

Resolved that a duplicate diploma be issued to R. T. Harper, a graduate of this Military Academy.

[Written on the side of the page.]
Religious Instruction

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Resolved that the matter of religious instruction of the students in the Academy be referred to Col. Coward for his views and suggestions, and that the letters of the Rev. Mr. Law and others be delivered to him that he may understand the motive of this resolution.

Citadel, Charleston, S.C.,
June 28, 1893.

The Board met.

The annexed report of Col. Thomas is hereby referred to the

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Academic Board to report at meeting in September. Report of Col. Thomas:

The committee of one to whom was referred the communication of Jno. P. Thomas - not present at the February meeting of the Board - in relation to the curriculum of the Academy, begs leave to report -
That the Board, being impressed with the suggestions contained in said communication, hereby refers the subject matter of the curriculum to the Academic Board to report at the September meeting of the Board of Visitors whether it is not practicable and desirable to substitute some modern text-book on Government with expositions of the Constitution of the U.S. and that of S.C. and whether, further, it cannot be arranged to add to the course of studies in the First Class year a condensed course on the Evidences of Christianity - or some cognate subject - designed to strengthen the faith of Cadets in the fundamental principles of the Christian Creed.
Respectfully submitted
Jno. P. Thomas.

Resolved that the annexed report of the Committee on General Average be referred to the meeting in September.

[Written on side of page.]
Report of Committee

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Citadel, Charleston, S. C.,
June 27, 1893.

To Board of Visitors of
S. C. Mil. Acad}
Gentlemen:
The committee to whom was referred sundry papers from Supt. & Professors relating to change of rule making the General Average of a Cadet the basis of his academic standing, respectfully report that they have carefully considered the subject and find that they cannot agree as to the principle which underlies each of the two systems, the former system & the present one & therefore can make no recommendation as to the change of system, but they do recommend that in case the Board adheres to the present system that the rule be amended by the addition of the following - provided, nevertheless, that no Cadet shall be advanced to a higher class or receive a diploma who fails to make fifty out of a possible one hundred in any department.
Respectfully submitted
am. B. Jones, Chairman

Resolved that the report on the death of Lieut John A. Towers be spread upon the minutes.

[Written on the side of the page.]
Resolution on the death of Lieut Towers

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Whereas, since the last meeting of the Board of Visitors, the Academic Board has been deprived by illness of the services of the officer detailed by the Government to the South Carolina

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Military Academy as Commandant of Cadets and Professor of Military Art and Science - Lieutenant John A. Towers, 2nd Art. U.S.A. - who expired at Anderson, S.C. on March 23, 1893 -
Therefore,
Resolved -
That in the death of this officer - a young South Carolinian - in the flush of manhood, the South Carolina Military Academy lost a soldier whose high sense of honor, manly traits, and marked efficiency made him a valuable member of the Academic staff. Resolved -
That this Resolution be spread on the minutes of this Board, and that a copy be transmitted to the family of the deceased with the expression of the sympathies of this Board.
Respectfully submitted
Jno. P. Thomas.

[Written on the side of the page.]
Aid to Military Schools from Congress

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Major Gadsden and Col. Youmans reported on the recommendation of Inspector General Lawton U.S.A. That application be made to Congress for recognition and aid for State and private military schools. It was resolved, That the Board of Visitors of the South Carolina Military Academy view with deep interest the agitation of this subject.
The cooperation of the Governor of South Carolina is regarded as all-important to success with the General Government. Adopted

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[Written on the side of the page.]
Repairs to Building

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Resolved that the matter of repairs of the Academy requiring immediate attention be referred to the Superintendent to have estimates made and report same to the Board at Aiken.

The report of the Superintendent was read by him before the Board, also the reports made by the various Professors

Citadel, Charleston, S.C.,
June 29, 1893.

[Written on the side of the page.]
Cadet Whitner Honorably Discharged

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Board met, Dr. Jones in the chair

It was moved and carried that H. E. Whitner, by request of his Father, B. F. Whitner, be honorably discharged from the Academy after standing his examinations now in progress.

Resolved that the Board adjourned to meet at Aiken, S.C. on afternoon of July 13th 1893.
A. M. Youmans, Secretary
per Lt. J. T. Coleman

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Report of Col. Asbury Coward
Superintendent

Charleston SC
June 27th 1893
To the
Board of Visitors S.C. Mily. Acad.
Gentlemen
As shown in my report of February 21st 1893, there were upon the roll of the Academy on the first of October 1892, Sixty-six Beneficiary and Seventy-one Pay Cadets -
Total 137
Casualties to date -
Hon. Discharge - 3 Pay Cadets
Retired 2 Pay Cadets
Dismissed 4 Pay Cadets
Expelled 1 Pay Cadet 10
Total present enrollment 127
Absent on sick leave
Legare, (P) Garris (B), Fike (B), 3
Total present for duty 124
he graduating class numbers sixteen members of whom nine are Beneficiaries and seven are Pay Cadets. These Beneficiaries are from the following named Counties -
Abbeville 1 R. McC. Perrin
Aiken 1 W. E. Woodward
Charleston 1 D. J. Lucas
Kershaw 1 J. W. Cantey
Oconee 1 G. Shankling
Spartanburg 1 W. A. Stribling
Sumter 1 B. D. Wilson
Union 1 J. P. Thomas
Williamsburg 1 W. B. Gourdin
9

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Total brought forward 9
Existing vacancies in Beaufort Co. 2
Vacancy by transfer, - Orangeburg Co. 1
Making in all 12 Vacancies
to be filled this year.

Financial matters
The income of the Pay fund for the year is as follows. 70 Pay Cadets - 1st instalment [sic] - $7000
65 Pay Cadets - 2nd installment - $6500
61 Pay Cadets - 3d installment - $6100
$19600
All of which has been collected and deposited in the Bank of the S.C. Loan & Trust Co. subject to the draft of the Chairman.
The balance to credit as shown by the Bank Book is - $2050.
The sum of $213.20 received from the insurance Company for estimated loss on Library books, and placed in my hands by Col. Gadsden, has been expended by me in replacing the lost books as shown by the following statement and accompanying vouchers -
(1) McHale & Rohde $65.52
(2) McHale & Rohde 59.77
(3) Walker Evans & Cogswell Co. 44.54
(4) A. B. Hohms Jr. 5.50
(5) Isaac Hammond 37.87
$213.20

The amount promised by the Chairman to be paid out of the Library fund to replace articles lost from the

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physical laboratory at the time of the fire of March 14th 1892 has been expended by Lieut. Coleman whose statement is hereto appended.
Physical condition of the property
The property of the Academy is generally in good condition. The west wing has been leaking verry [sic] much this Spring and Summer and its roof should be thoroughly over-hauled [sic]. Much of the ceiling plastering has fallen in the basement, and some in the east wing. The stucco work on the interior and exterior walls of the Main building is rapidly disintegrating. This has been caused partly by the thorough saturation of the walls during the fire, and partly by the freezes of the past winter. All the loose or dead plastering should be removed and a new coating be applied during the summer so that it may become thoroughly dried before winter. The entire building needs a good durable coat of color-washing to restore its respectable appearance.
Health
From the middle of last December up to this date we have had 37 cases of mumps, fortunately of a mild character. There are at present three Cadets absent on sick leave recommended by the Surgeon, namely

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Cadet Legare - P. cadet - cough and fever
Cadet Garris - B. cadet - Valvular disease of the heart
Cadet Fike - B. cadet - Fever
The hygiene conditions of the Academy were never better than it is at present.
Academic Work
The Academic work during the second half of the year has been satisfactory, and I am glad to state that during that period, I have had no serious case of discipline to bring before the Board. As the annual examination has just begun, I am of course unable to report final reports. The reports of Professors herewith submitted must also be understood as not based upon this Examination.
On the 5th of May, Lieut. Jno. M. Jenkins 5th Cav. U.S.A. reported for duty under assignment of the Sect. of War. He has begun his work here with with commendable zeal and energy. On the 22d of May the Academy was closely inspected by Maj. Langer of the Inspector General’s Dept. U.S.A. I invite your attention to his report to the Department, a copy of which is herewith submitted.
In addition to my regular instructions to the First Class in Moral and Political Science, I have carried that class through the two subjects, Military Law

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and Field Fortifications, belonging to the Department of Mil. Science. Since the arrival of Lieut. Jenkins, I have given instructions in Elocution to the 4th Class. The examination on all the subjects taught by me have been satisfactory.
The evil resulting from the low standard existing during the last two years, and to which your attention has been called, have shown themselves in the lower part of every class, this year. I trust, however, that the action expicted [sic] of your Board will put an end to this evil.
Very respectfully
signed) Asbury Coward

The Surgeon’s Report

Citadel June 29 1893
To Col. Coward
Supt. S.C.M.A.
Sir:
I respectfully submit the following report of the Medical Department of the S.C.M.A. for the session commencing Oct. 1st 1892, and ending July 1st 1893.
The Health of the Corps on the whole has been good, a decided improvement upon previous years.
The usual number of Catarrhal Catano - malarial fevers have

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prevailed among the recruits - a process of Acclimation which all of them have to endure:
Also, a number of cases of Orchitis, probably due to tight pants and imprudence on the part of the Cadets:
Also a mild prolonged visitation of mumps, in all, some 39 cases, from Dec. 14/92 to June 22nd/93. Three cases of continued fever have occurred (Typhoid in character).
No deaths have occurred in the corps this year.
On the whole, we can congratulate the Institution on the good health of the Corps.
I desire to commend the (Assistant Surgeon or) Hospital Steward, Mr T. M. McCutchen, who has discharged his duties faithfully and deserves the thanks of the Corps for services rendered to those sick in Hospital.
Respectfully Yours
Francis L. Parker, M.D.
Surgeon S.C.M.A.

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Citadel 23 June 1893
Col. Asbury Coward
Supt. S.C.M.A.
Sir:
I respectfully submit the following statement of the work done by the Second and Third Classes in the department of English Literature and History, during the last half of the academic year.
The Second class was divided into two Sections, and each Section recited daily.
The studies were Intellectual Philosophy, and two of Shakespeare’s plays, Hamlet and The Merchant of Venice. Alden’s Manual was the text-book in Philosophy, and Hudson’s edition of the plays was used.
The Third Class recited daily in Logic, using as a text-book Jevons’ Lessons in Logic.
The First and Second classes were exercised in Elocution and Composition; while the Third Class during half of the term pursued the study of Rhetoric, using Hill’s Elements of Rhetoric as a text-book.
Very respy. Submitted
St James Cumming’s
Prof. Eng. Lit. & Hist.

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Citadel June 24th 1893
Col. Asbury Coward
Superintendent
Sir:
I have the honor to report that the work laid down for the first and second classes in my department has been carried on as usual with fairly satisfactory results as far as the better numbers of the classes are concerned. Some numbers of the 1st Class whom I reported to you at the semi-annual examination in February as having continuously neglected their duty have done better during the second term, but not as well as I should expect.
The majority of the second class have done fairly well, and a minority very poorly.
This I attribute to a lack of any required standard in the department.
As to recommendations I can only refer to those in my former report concerning laboratory work and a consequent remodeling of the course.
The apparatus and materials in the laboratory are intact and good condition with the exception of a few pieces which need repairs and some few materials, which can not be kept and consequently need replacement.
Very respectfully
Chas. L. Reese
Prof. Chem & Phys.

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P. S. Accompanying this I respectfully submit reports of Lieut. O. J. Bond, who has taught the Astronomy Class, and Lieut. Coleman, who has the Natural Philosophy.

Citadel June 24th 1893
Maj. C. L. Reese
Prof. Chemistry & Physics
Sir: -
The first class has recited to me in astronomy every other day during the last term. I believe our change of text-book has been beneficial; and I think the class has done fairly well, and shown interest. Respectfully
O. J. Bond
Asst. Prof. Mathematics

Citadel, June 24th 1893
To Major C. L. Reese
Prof. Chem & Physics
Sir: -
I beg leave to report that the prescribed course of study in the department of Physics has been accomplished by the Third Class. The work of the year has been about on an average with that obtained with other classes.
We have recently received a small supply of material, which will be quite helpful in the construction of simple apparatus; also a few

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pieces which I have used to great advantage in the study of current induction the most important feature of many practical electrical appliances.
We need annually a small sum to cover the necessary wear and tear, and to supply apparatus for illustration which can not be constructed by one unskilled in the use of tools. Such apparatus as I can generally put together is almost wholly restricted to qualitative work.
Very respectfully
J. T. Coleman
Lt. & Asst. Prof. Physics

Citadel June 24th 1893

Col. Asbury Coward
Superintendent
Sir: -
I have the honor to make the following report for the Department of Mathematics and Engineering. The First Class has been instructed in Analytic Mechanics. In this course of Civil Engineering, more attention is given to the principle involved in the determination of the strength and stability of bridges, dams and other structures, and in their proper design, than to any detailed description of actual construction. It is regarded of the first importance that the student

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be furnished with a fund of correct principles from which he can draw when occasion arises. The Second Class has been employed upon Analytic Geometry and upon the Calculus. The text-book used in Calculus gives the theory correctly and logically and at the same time is an eminently practical work.
The Calculus is used to advantage in the treatment of many questions in the course of Civil Engineering. The Third Class has been instructed in Geometry, Trigonometry, and Surveying by Lieut. Bond, whose report is herewith forwarded.
I concur in his recommendation as to the issue of text-books.
The Fourth Class has been instructed in Algebra by Lieut. Coleman whose report is herewith forwarded. Respectfully submitted
Robt. G. Thomas
Professor Mathematics and Engineering

Citadel June 24th 1893
Maj. R. G. Thomas Prof. Math. and Engineering
Sir:
I respectfully submit the report of the work done by the Third Class in mathematics for the past session. In plane trigonometry, the progress made was satisfactory, - only one or two numbers of each section
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lack of study.
In surveying, as is generally the case, the interest shown was more marked, and the work accomplished correspondingly gratifying. Only a very limited amount of field work was done, but it is my intention to supplement this on the encampment.
I think it important that the Cadets should keep in their possession their algebras, geometries, and trigonometries, and recommend that these books be issued them permanently.
Respectfully
O. J. Bond
Asst. Prof. Math.

Citadel June 24 1893
To Major R. G. Thomas
Prof. Mathematics
Sir: -
I have conducted the work in Algebra with the Fourth Class during the past year.
With a few exceptions, the cadets have done very well in that subject. We have done somewhat more work in Algebra than other classes have done owing to the change in the text-book used.
Very respectfully
J. T. Coleman
Lt. and Asst. Prof. Physics

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Citadel June 24th 1893
Col. Asbury Coward
Supt.: -
Sir: -
I have the honor to submit my report of the department of drawing and book-keeping.
The first class has accomplished somewhat more in book-keeping than any class heretofore. The course is practical, and many of the cadets have shown considerable aptitude. We do not expect to make accountants, but I believe that all of them have made an acquaintance with the general principles of double entry which will be of value to them in life. I think this department is eminently useful.
The second class has been engaged during the past term in architectural drawing. While some are slow, the majority have completed from six to ten drawings, - two plans, four elevations, and four detail drawings. The work consists in copying and enlarging designs, making tracings and blue prints.
The work of the third class in drawing has been divided between descriptive geometry and surveying. The class has drawn nearly all of the plates in the book on orthographic projections, and made surveyors plates, profiles, and contour drawings. I am very well pleased with the work done.
Respectfully

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O. J. Bond
Asst. Prof. Math. in charge of the
dept. of drawing and book-keeping

So. Ca. Milt. Acad.
Charleston S.C.
24 June 93
To
Col. Asbury Coward.
Supt.
Sir:
I beg leave to make the following Report in regard to the classes under my charge during the past term. The 1st Class - 16 members - (not divided into sections) - has pursued and accomplished the course in Germ: Trans: This Class has had 10 recitations per month and with a few exceptions has done very well. Deportment uniformerly good.
The 2nd Class - 53 members - (in two sect.) began the trans. of Germ: in Feb. It has had 10 recitations per month alternating reading with declension and conjugation of verbs. A considerable interest has been shown in the study and the progress generally good.
The 3rd Class - 29 members - (two sections) has pursued and accomplished the course in French, and has shown some improvement in acquiring the verb forms. The same number of hours (10) per m. has been devoted to this class, which com-

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pleted the course in Fr. with this term.
The 4th Class - 29 members (in 2 sect.) began the trans. of French in Feb. It has had 10 recitations per month alternating, reading with verb conjugation, and has made very fair progress. The members are attentive and well behaved & promise well.
Very Respty.
P. P. Mazyck
Capt. & Instructor Mod. Lang.

Charleston S.C. June 26 1893
The Superintendent
South Carolina Military Academy
Sir: -
I have the honor to make the following report of the Department of Military Science and Tactics since I reported for duty May 5th 1893
There has been given an average of six hours practical military instruction, weekly, for Cadets of the First and Second Classes.
The requirements of all orders and circulars of the War Department are complied with.
The work of the Cadets has been generally satisfactory. I respectfully recommend that the course of instruction be brought to date by the adoption of the most recent text-books authorized and adopted by the War Department as standards.

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I respectfully recommend further, that the conditions on which the annual encampment of the Corps of Cadets is conducted at present be modified: that the battalion of Cadets be given a practical march through several towns and counties, in order that they may be given practical instruction in marching, the selection of camps, camping, the care and preparation of the ration, and the general duties of troops in the field. I consider this the most important knowledge that should be imparted to the Cadets, who will be looked for by the State to efficiently officer her troops. Under present conditions it is impossible to give this instruction thoroughly.

Very respectfully
Your obedient servant
John M. Jenkins
2nd Lieut. 5th Cavalry
Professor of Military Science and Tactics

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(Copy)

Charleston, S.C.
May 22, 1893
To the
Inspector General, U. S. A.
Washington, D.C.
Sir:
I have the honor to submit the following report of an inspection of the military department of the South Carolina Military Academy, made the 22nd. instant, in accordance with the instructions of the Secretary of War.
The Academy was last inspected by Lieut. Col. H. W. Lawton Inspector General, May 1892.
For a general description of the Academy, its appointments and objects, attention is called to the accompanying catalogue.
The institution was established in 1842 and confers the diploma of the Military Academy.
It is not endowed under the act approved July 2, 1862, and receives no income from that source.
The military proffessorships [sic] was established in October 1883, and the chair is now filled by Lieutenant J. M. Jenkins, 5th Cavalry, who has been on duty since May 5, 1893. He resides at the Academy, and when in the performance of his duties, wears his uniform.
He is a member of the Faculty and

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Commandant of Cadets, and takes rank after the Superintendent, with all the right incident thereto. He is not employed by the Academy.
All appointments and promotions of officers and non-commissioned officers are made by the Superintendent of the Academy on the recommendation of the Commandant. The orders are issued by the Commandant.
Proper Military discipline is enforced at all times. Breaches of discipline and misconduct are punished, by deprivation of recreation, extra tours of duty, private reprimand, public reprimand, arrest or confinement to prescribed limits, imprisonment in light or dark room, suspension, dismission, and expulsion.
The course of instruction is both theoretical and practical and occupies 15 hours per week for theoretical instruction and 5 hours per week for practical instruction.
Attendance is compulsory on theoretical instruction in 1st and 2nd classes, on practical instruction on all cadets.
Proficiency in the military department is requisite to enable a student to receive his diploma.
Facilities for military instruction comprise the arms and accoutrements of infantry and field prices for artillery.
During the past year there have

[Page 31]
124 infantry drills; 40 artillery drills; 0 cavalry drills; 0 exercises in target practice; ceremonies will take place during encampment; daily guard mounting and monthly review and inspection.
There has been no instruction in minor tactics as yet; but will take place later.
Theoretical instruction has been given in artillery and infantry drill regulations and in the Art and Science of War.
Total number of recitations: 135.
Average daily attendance at each recitation: 68 Number of examinations: 3.
The total number of students enrolled in the institution during the past year has been 147, all males.
Of the total number of students capable of performing military duty there have been 147 under military instruction, being 100 per cent of the entire number.
The average attendance at each infantry drill has been 105; at each artillery drill 50; cavalry drill 0; signaling 0; target practice ?; ceremonies 105. Unauthorized absences from military instruction are punished by the award of penalties already stated according to the degree of the offense.
The students are organized into an

[Page 32]
infantry battalion, consisting of one adjutant, one quartermaster, one sergeant major, one quartermaster sergeant, and two companies.
The uniform consists of that of West Point cadet organization, buttons and white belts, excepted, and is worn at all times.
At inspection there was no student out of uniform. The arms, accouterments and uniforms were generally in very good condition.
There is no signal property on hand.
The guns, carriages, implements and equipments were under shelter and in good condition.
The reports required by G. O. 26, 1891, have been regularly rendered; copies of these reports and of all correspondence are on file.
The name of the students who have shown special aptitude have not been reported to the Adjutant General of the Army, because they have not yet been determined.
The names of the three most distinguished students in military science during the year have not yet been determined.
The attitude of the authorities and students toward the military department is very favorable.
The battalion numbering 112 cadets was inspected and exercised in infantry drill regulations, in the

[Page 33]
manuel of the piece, field artillery, and presented a most creditable appearance. A few rusty muskets were noticed, and more attention should be paid to the nomenclature of the rifle and field piece.
Owing to the illness and death of Lieutenant Towers, a most excellent and much beloved instructor, there had been no army officer on duty with the battalion since last October until the arrival of Lieutenant Jenkins, two weeks ago. In consequence of this long [illegible] the artillery drill has suffered, and no instruction has been given in the extended order drill of infantry. The close order drill of the battalion and companies was in most respects excellent.
It is recommended that two heliographs and the usual signal equipments be furnished this school.
In addition to the instruction to which reference has already been made, it should be stated that a guard, consisting of an officer of the day, an officer or sergeant of the guard, 3 corporals and 13 privates is mounted daily.
Four posts are established in the corridors of the barracks, the sentinels walking from from 7:20 p.m. until 11: p.m. when the privates are dismissed, but the officers and

[Page 34]
non-commissioned officers remain at the guard room all night.
An annual encampment and march of two weeks forms part of the regular military instruction of the cadets, which may be extended to one month. Target practice and signaling take place during the encampment. This year the cadets will encamp at Aiken S.C. from July 1st to 15th, and the commencement will be held there.
By referring to the catalogue it will be observed that the Academy is a State institution. It is modeled on the plan of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point with which, in some respects it may be favorably compared.
Lieutenant Jenkins stated that the requirements of the War Department have been fully complied with. Colonel Coward the Superintendent spoke in high terms of Lieutenant Jenkins.
(Signed) Very respectfully
J. P. Langer
Major, Inspector General

[Page 35]
Aiken, S.C. 13 July 1893

Board pursuant to adjournment met at the Bush House in Aiken.
Present
The Chairman
Maj. Gadsden
Col Thomas
Gen. Moore

Graduating Class
The Superintendent submitted his Report on the Graduating Class.
Referred back to him for a further Report to be submitted tomorrow. Superintendent reported orally upon the condition of the Citadel Building, recommending that the damaged plastering on Main Building be removed by day labor under Charge of Qr. Master, and that then estimates be invited for replacing same and color washing. That an inspection and estimates be invited for repair of roofing. Recommendation of Supt. approved and Ordered: That upon receipt of necessary information and of estimates, Executive Committee be empowered to take action.
Officers Quarters
Resolved
That it be referred to Superintendent and Resident Member of Board to inquire and report

[Page 36]
some plan, if any is practicable, for a readjustment of officers quarters whereby that matter can be placed upon a fixed basis.
Board adjourned to meet at 9 A.M. tomorrow J
J. P. Thomas
Actg. Secty.

Aiken, S.C. 14 July 1893.

Board met pursuant to adjournment.
Present
Same Members as yesterday; also Gen. Farley. Superintendent reported on graduating class, and their standing as follows:

[See chart on original document.]

[Page 37]
Ordered: That Diplomas be conferred upon Cadets
D. J. Lucas
J. W. Cantey B. D. Wilson
F. S. Wilcox W. B. Gourdin
G. Shanklin G. H. Atkinson
J. P. Thomas J. H. Earle
R. McC. Perrin G. Bowen
W. A. Stribling W. E. Woodward
E. B. Fishburne J. R. Verdier
G. L. Dial

Board attended commencement exercises.
Board adjourned
J. P. Thomas
Actg Secty.

[Page 38]
Columbia, S.C.
Sept. 5th 1893

The Board of Visitors convened at the Hotel Jerome at 10. A.M. Present -
Gen. Hagood - Chairman
Maj. Gadsden
Dr. Jones
Gen. Moore
Col. Thomas

The following applications for permission to appear in the competitive examination for the Beneficiary appointments of 1893, were considered and acted on favorably
-Aiken-
Boykin J. A.
Gaston W. H. Jordan Hashell C.
Horton E. C. Timmerman G. W.
-Abbeville-
Adams Hannie Mitler F. N.
Chatham J. C. Moore G. M.
Cheatham R. B. Moseley R. E.
Cothran F. H. Rasor Wm H
Marbert Griffin Speer G. W.
Charleston
Mazyck Wm
-Kershaw-
Haile W. H.
Orangeburg
Culler H. H. Langley H. A.
Felder F. W. Faber D. D.
Heidtman E. H.

[Page 39]
Oconee
McElroy A. P.
Spartanburg
Alexander J. E. Holmes A. G.
Blackwood J. C. McDonald R. H.
Dean D. D.
Sumter
Baskins E. McLeod S. M.
Cooper E. L. Munnerlynn T. W.
DuRant C. W. Muldron R.
Haynsworth G. E. Spann L. D.
McLeod D. C.
Union
Kennedy B. F. Stokes R. L.
Macomson E. O. Zealey Wm W.
Sarratt S. G.
Williamsburg
Epps R. D. Morris R. E.
The following applications were considered and action taken as below; to wit:
Abbeville
Case of John W. Moore
Rejected - Applicant being under age.
Charleston
Case of Edward R. Milan
Resolved - That applicant be rejected on the ground that the application is improperly filled out.
Kershaw
Case of W. Clyburn Jr
Application rejected on the ground that the Applicant is over the age, at which a Beneficiary Cadet can apply.

[Page 40]
Case of C. C. Moore
Resolved - That 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 the death of Cadet Law
Cadet J. G. Law of the 2d Class, having died during the Military Session, -
Ordered; - That the Chairman be authorized to order a special examination for the County of Darlington, to fill said vacancy, and that he be empowered to act.

The Beaufort Vacancies
There being no applicants to fill the (2) existing vacancies from Beaufort; - Ordered - That the Chairman again advertise in the County papers & hold an examination at a subsequent day to be appointed by him. He is also empowered to act on applications, as in the Darlington case.

General Average
The Report of Committee on General Average, was considered an it was ordered that the present system be retained, with the exception of the recommendation as made by the Committee, to wit, “provided [Page 41] nevertheless, that no Cadet shall be advanced to a higher class or receive a diploma who fails to make fifty out of a possible one hundred in any department,” and this was approved.

The Board then adjourned at 1 P.M.
Butler Hagood
Secy

[Page 42]
Annual Meeting
2 November 1893

Board met at Charleston Hotel at 1 P.M.
Present
The Chairman
Dr S. B. Jones
Maj. C. S. Gadsden
Col. J. P. Thomas
Gen. J. W. Moore
Col. A. M. Youmans
Adj. Gen. Farley

The Superintendent submitted his supplemental Report accompanied by supplemental Reports from Prof. of Military Science & Tactics, and from Prof. Chemistry and Physics.

By Gen. Farley
Resolved - That the Board approve of the suggestion of the Professor of Military Science and Tactics to take the Corps of Cadets outside of the city limits one day in each month for a practice march - provided that the same can be so done as not to interfere materially with academic duties.

By Dr Jones
Resolved. That par. 140 of the Regulations be amended so as to add the words “and the Commandant of Cadets” after the word Superintend-

[Page 43]
ant in the first sentence of said paragraph: and that the second sentence be stricken out -
Also
That par. 4 of the Regulations be amended in the last sentence so as to read as follows - “In the absence of the Commandant of Cadets the Superintendent will discharge the duties of that officer with such assistance as he may require from any one or more of the Academic Officers.”

By Col. Thomas
That the recommendation of the Professor of Chemistry as to the scheme & provision for laboratory work by Cadets be approved.

Board adjourned to 8 P.M.

Charleston Hotel
8 P.M. 2 Nov. 93
Board reconvened
Present - same members

Superintendents Report of Annual Receipts and Disbursements Examined

Board adjourned to 10 A.M. 3 Nov.

[Page 44]
3 Nov 1893

Board convened at
Citadel
Present same Members

The Corps was reviewed and inspected,
Barracks Mess Hall &c also inspected.
A recommendation of Superintendent to request the General Assembly to change the basis of appointment of Beneficiaries from that of the aggregate population to that of the white population of counties was submitted by Chairman after discussion.
Resolved.
That the recommendation of the Superintendent be received as information.

The suggestion was presented to recommend to the General Assembly a change in the Beneficiary system so that each Beneficiary should defray a part of his expenses. After much discussion the suggestion was approved by a majority of one vote.
The resolution was then reconsidered and withdrawn - on motion of its mover upon the ground stated that it was not judicious to present to the Legislature a

[Page 45]
recommendation for so fundamental a change in the law, when the Board were so equally divided upon its propriety.

Board adjourned

A. M. Youmans
Acting Secretary

[Page 46]
Supplemental Report of Superintendent
2 Nov. 1893
To the Board of Visitors of the S. C. Military Academy Gentlemen:
In addition to the printed official Register for the academic year 1892-93 and the reports made by me in February and June, I beg to submit the following report. The annual examinations having ended on Friday, June 30th the corps of Cadets and the Academic officers took the train on the morning of Saturday July 1st, for Aiken S.C., where your Chairman had directed that the annual encampment should be held. On arriving at that city, they were escorted to the Schnetzen Park by the Aiken Guards, where the Hon. W. G. Chafee, Mayor in eloquent terms of welcome extended to all the hospitalities of the city, and the citizens by way of emphasizing his words had prepared an elegant and abundant open air banquet. This was but a fore task of the unvarying courtesies and hospitalities extended to us throughout our stay in Aiken. For a statement of the work done by the Corps during the two weeks of this encampment, I beg to refer you to the report of the Commandant of

[Page 47]
Cadets, (I) hereto appended.
The advantages of having the First Class on the encampment were apparent in the good order maintained and the excellent performance of all military work. The fact that the regular Commencement exercises of the Academy were of public interest in the encampment than had ever been observed before, and I think this feature has accomplished all that could have been reasonably anticipated from the inauguration of the policy of holding the Commencement in connection with the encampment. A pleasing incident of our stay in Aiken was the presentation, by Dr B. H. Teague, a public spirited citizen of that city, of a beautiful gold medal bearing a star made from the wood of the Steamer Star of the West, to be annually competed for by individual drill. The honor of wearing it during the current academic year was won by Cadet A. E. Legare - Another handsome medal offered by the volunteer militia companies encamped near us, for competitive target practice, was won by Cadet E. A. McClellan.
Enrolment [sic]
After the graduation of the Class

[Page 48]
On the 14th July there remained upon the roll of the Academy 57 Beneficiary and 53 Pay Cadets; - a total of 110 Cadets.
During the vacation one Cadet died, and four were honorably discharged, thus leaving on the roll October 1st 105
admitted since October 1st 39 (13 B. and 26 P.)
Total at present 144 (68 B. and 76 P.)
All of these are present except Cadet W. Jervey, who is now in the St Xavier infirmary where he has been recently subjected to a surgical operation on the hip joint, in consequence of the severe injury received in May 1892. Only one case of serious illness has occurred since the opening of the session, and this one is now convalescent.
The Academic work is progressing in a generally satisfactory manner in all departments. With a view to meeting the wishes of the Board, I have substituted in my own Department a Manual of Natural Theology, and a Manual of Christian Evidences, in the place of Hickock’s Moral Science. These two Manuals, written by G. P. Fisher D.D., L.S.D. - Prof. of Ecclesiastical History in Yale University, and but recently published are correspondences but I think they cover sufficiently well the ground intended in the recommendation made to your Board last February by Dr. Law. I propose to make a change for the second term by the substitution

[Page 49]
of Wilson’s State and Federal Constitutions, and Stule’s works on Economics, in place of Story on the Constitution. Wilson’s book is fresh, and somewhat synoptical and can be easily studied in a half term, and this allows the introduction of Stule’s practical little book on Economics.
I beg to call special attention of the Board to the recommendation of the Professor of Chemistry and Physics set forth in the accompanying paper (2). I heartily concur in his views, and I would urge that the suggested change be made whenever the funds of the institution be found sufficient to meet the necessary expenditures involved.
I regret to state that the storm of August 27th did much damage to the buildings. Nearly 500 slates had to be reset in the roof of the main building and of the west-wing; large areas of interior plastering had to be removed; scores of window glasses had to be restored; and some gutters and down pipes had to be mended. The color-washing of the main building and E. wing was very nearly completed at the time of the storm, and much of it was consequently washed off. Where cement mortar was used, however, no damage was done. The cost of repairing the storm damage, and the unprovided for losses sustained by fire in March 1892 have made a large inroad upon the resources of

[Page 50]
the institution. These resources, as you are aware are based upon the net cost, or nearly so, of running the institution during the ordinary course of events and there can never be any accumulation of excesses of receipts over expenditures to meet the consequences of unforeseen calamities. The only resort is to the General Assembly for an appropriation to cover the expenses incident to such calamities when they occur. The amount of the losses sustained by fire is shown in the itemized statement of the Quarter Master to have been $2053.61
Amount paid out for repair of storm damages as per QM’s statement (3) 507.14
$2560.75
I respectfully urge that the General Assembly be asked to make a special appropriation to cover this amount.
Respectfully submitted
Asbury Coward
Supt.

[Page 51]
Department of Military Science and Tactics
South Carolina Military Academy
Charleston S.C. Nov 2. 1893
To the Superintendent
S.C. Military Academy
Sir:
I have the honor to submit the following report: During the encampment of the annual Military session there were held daily, weather permitting two battalion drills, guard mounting and dress parade. There were held too competitive drills: Company drill, Company “A” being successful. Individual drill for the “Star of the West” medal presented by Dr Teague, Cadet Legare being the successful competitor.
The duties of camp guard and police were satisfactorily performed.
The drills were for the most part confined to “extended order,” attack of positions, making use of cover and the accidents of the ground. It was not practicable to give instruction in the duties that pertain specially to troops in the field. I would respectfully call attention to my former report on this subject. This instruction, which can only be given practically is the most important that can be imparted to the soldier, and I respectfully recommend that the Board authorize a practice march covering at least one half of the time of the Military session. The new Drill

[Page 52]
Regulations aim to make the soldier efficient on the field of battle, and to that end the “extended order,” making use of cover, and adapting all formations to the accidents of the ground, should be given the first place in all military instruction. The details only of these movements can be taught on the square - their intelligent appreciation requires varied ground. I respectfully recommend that authority be given for devoting one day in each month to military exercises exclusively, when the Battalion of Cadets may be taken beyond the city limites and given practical marches during which the duties of advanced and rear guards escorts to convoys, outposts and the principles of “extended order” might be practically taught. The time thus used may be deducted from the hours of theoretical instruction without detriment for the adoption of the new text-books authorized by the War Department, has rendered it necessary to use less time than was required by the former course of study in this Department. This work will be excellent exercise and a proper preparation for the march above proposed.
The attention of the Board is called to par. 140 Regulations, S.C.M.A. This paragraph should read “except the Superintendent and Commandant of Cadets.” The duties of officer in charge do not properly

[Page 53]
devolve on the Commandant of Cadets. He is always on duty with the Battalion of Cadets. It is directly contrary to the Regulations of the United States Military Academy, upon which these Regulations are based.
It is also recommended that the Commandant of Cadets be given authority to grant the general leaves of absence, forwarding to the Superintendent only such leaves of absence applications as do not come under this head, and that par. 85 be amended to read: “Applications for leave of absence on Friday evenings and Sundays may be granted by the Commandant of Cadets.”
Very respectfully
Your obedient servant
John M. Jenkins
2nd Lieut. 5th U.S. Cavalry
Professor Military Science and Tactics

[Page 54]
The Citadel
Charleston S.C.
Oct. 31st 1893
Col. Asbury Coward
Supt. S.C.M.A.
Sir:
It has been my hope ever since I became connected with this institution that before long we would be able to introduce the method, now almost universally adopted in this country and abroad, of teaching the science of chemistry. That is the method according to which the actual handling of the material is required of the student or what is more commonly called laboratory work.
That it is important that some such method should be adopted in this school needs no argument. The mere fact that the method has been so universally accepted is sufficient. Indeed I know of no school of importance where science is taught without using the laboratory method.
The object in teaching material science, as I understand it is two-fold. First, to give the student a training essentially different from that given by the study of language, history and the abstract science of mathematics; to give a training which will broaden the mind and prevent it from running into literary and abstract grooves. Second, to train the mind of the student in the direction of

[Page 55]
observing what is going on around him; not only to see what he finds before him but to note it and draw conclusions concerning it. It trains him to think about what he sees. How many men lack the faculty of really seeing and noting what they look at?
Laboratory work gives this training to the student to a degree that lecturing alone cannot, however painstaking the teacher may be to call his attention to every little detail. If the student handle the materials himself and is required to make a note of what he sees, the habit of observation grows on him in such a way that he will never lose it.
To require a student to recite a lesson in chemistry learned from a book no more attains the object for which the subject is taught than if he should recite on so many pages of the dictionary.
The fact that he learns something about the subject does very little good as he soon forgets the matter, and as to training he is no better off.
To give an idea how some of our great teachers of science look upon this matter; while in conversation with Prof. Remsen, of the John Hopkins University, several years ago on the importance of laboratory training I told him that I did not think we had time in our

[Page 56]
course for both lecture and laboratory work and he said “rather have a laboratory course and no lecture than lecture with no laboratory work.” Now of course it would be best for us to have laboratory work, lecture, and recitation, but if we cannot find time for all I think I can suggest a plan by which we can accomplish the best results that our time will allow.
I would require no more hours from the individual cadet per week than are at present devoted to the subject but a different arrangement which could be fixed by the academic board. However the details of the arrangement of hours I could give if it is desired.
Now of course I recognize the fact that such a change as I suggest would require some outlay of money in the beginning for working desks and apparatus which however could be reduced to a minimum cost.
I am having estimates made now as to the cost of the wood work and hope to have them by the time your board meets.
As to the general running expense, I calculate that it would amount to no more than ($5.00) five dollars per year for each student to cover both materials & wear & tear and I think the cadets could afford this in their

[Page 57]
1st and 2nd class, years. The 4th class men have many heavy expenses, having their uniforms to buy. In the third class year, they spend about ($12) twelve dollars for drawing materials and so I calculate that they could spare ($5) five dollars in the 1st & 2nd class years for chemical materials & apparatus.
We have a very good general supply of chemicals and apparatus on hand and I think we could buy the necessary new apparatus for the $5 a piece which would come from each students fund.
In many institutions it is required that all students make a deposit of $5 or more contingent fund to cover any careless breakages waste.
If the board should desire it I should be glad to appear before them to explain any matter or answer any question.
Very respectfully
Your obedient servant
Chas. L. Reese
Major & Prof. Chem. & Physics