Minutes of the Board of Visitors of The Citadel, 1898

Minutes of the Board of Visitors of The Citadel, 1898

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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Charleston, S. C. Jan 20/98

An extra meeting of the Board of Visitors convened this day at the Jerome Hotel, Columbia, S. C., called by the acting Chairman.
Present:
Messrs. C. S. Gadsden
J. P. Thomas
J. J. Lucas
Edw. Anderson
J. G. Watts
W. H. Mauldin
H. N. Crumb
also Col. A. Coward, Supt. of the S.C.M.A., and Col. Butler Hagood, son of the late Chairman.
It was moved that Mr. C. S. Gadsden take the chair as acting Chairman.
The Chairman called the attention of the Board to the recent death, on the 4th. inst., of Genl Hagood, Chairman of this Board for twenty years, and the necessity for a reorganization in consequence of his demise.
The following preamble and resolution were offered:
“Whereas, on the death of Gen. Johnson Hagood, Chairman, on the 4th of January inst., uncertainty exists in the mind of the Governor of the State and others, as to whether the succession to the Chairmanship of the Board of Visitors of the South Carolina Military Academy, should be by appointment by the Governor, or by election of the Board, and whereas the Record thus far in the history of the Board is not conclusive, therefore:
Be it resolved, in order to definitely settle this matter, that the Board hereby decided that the Chairman, in the event of a vacancy, should be elected by the Board of Visitors:
Thereupon, the Board of Visitors proceeded to an elec-

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tion, when Mr. C. S. Gadsden was unanimously elected Chairman.
A noble tribute was made to the memory of the deceased Chairman by Bishop Ellison Capers, the recently appointed member of the Board, and in his absence was read by Col. Coward: as follows –
“The death of Gen. Johnson Hagood marks an epoch in the history of the South Carolina Military Academy. For twenty years he was the able Chairman of its Board of Visitors. For a like period of time, commencing with the foundation of the Academy and including the eventful years of the Confederate War, his predecessor, Gen. James Jones, presided with consummate wisdom, and as the great Chairman of the Board, directed the affairs of the Academy.
“With no less ability, and with equal devotion, his successor, our deeply lamented Chairman, has directed the best interests of his Alma Mater. From the re-opening of the Academy in 1882 up to his fatal illness, Gen. Hagood’s genius for government and his marked capacity for wise leadership were unstintedly given to this Board. His death alone terminated his active exertions in our behalf.
“Gen. Hagood’s eventful life illustrated noble qualities of head and heart, and witnesses to the value of that wise discipline and training which fitted him to be one of our most valued and useful citizens.
“Tributes to his worth have come to us from every section of the State.
“His many sided personality impressed itself deeply upon the minds of his fellow citizens, and in his death it has been everywhere felt that South Carolina had lost a noble son.
“A brave and distinguished soldier, a conservative and wise Governor, a wonderful expert organizer in times of civil commotion, a sys-

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tematic and successful farmer, a loyal and devoted citizen.
“Such was the man whose loss we deplore today.
“We, his fellow graduates and associates, cherishing his manly virtues, would hold up his high example to the Cadets and graduates of the Academy, and bid them all emulate his unfaltering purpose and his devotion to our Alma Mater.
“Lamenting his death, we would embalm the memory of his life and his services in our love and gratitude. Therefore, be it,
1 – Resolved, That it is the sense of this Board that in the death of Gen. Johnson Hagood, South Carolina has lost a son who was distinguished as a patriot, as a soldier and as a statesman; and the South Carolina Military Academy has lost a wise parental governor.
2 – That the Board tenders to the bereaved widow and family the assurances of its profound sympathy in this great private and public loss.
3 – That the Secretary be requested to send a copy of this preamble and resolutions to the family of Gen. Hagood, and also to the Superintendent of the Military Academy to be published in orders to the Corps of Cadets.”

Col. J. P. Thomas seconded the resolutions accompanying the Bishop’s remarks, in an eloquent address, which, by the action of the Board, Col. Thomas was requested to furnish for record, and is hereto subscribed.

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Further remarks in honor of the lamented Chairman were made by Maj. Mauldin, Gen. Watts and Mr. Crumb, which showed the confidence and affection which the Chairman had inspired in the other members of the Board.
A resolution approving the action of Supt. Coward in carrying the Corps of Cadets to Barnwell to pay the proper mark of respect and honor at the grave of General Hagood was duly offered and passed.
Resolution of thanks to authorities of the S. C. & G. Railroad, and of the Carolina Midland Railroad for liberal reduction of fare in transporting the officers and Corps of Cadets to attend the funeral services of the late Chairman.
Resolution of thanks to citizens of Barnwell for their hospitable entertainment of the officers and cadets on the same occasion.
Resolution approving the action of the Superintendent in taking the Corps of Cadets, on the 6th of January, to take part in the funeral ceremonies of the late Chairman.
Discipline at the Academy

Resolution was passed relieving Cadet G. R. Tinnent, in consequence of his good conduct, of the balance of his sentence for hazing, imposed at the meeting of this Board at the Citadel in November.

Cadet W. S. Humphreys of Greenville, broke garrison limits when under sentence of

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confinement by the Board for hazing – Dismissed.

Cadet W. F. Pittman of Williamsburg Co., expelled for desertion.

Cadet W. E. Lipscomb of Florida, suspended on the recommendation of the faculty, for deception and fraud in recitations -- Expelled.

Bill before Congress, looking to the introduction of five (5) Cadets from the Academy into the U. S. Army. This matter was referred to the Chairman with power to act.

Resolution adapted that 250 to 500 copies of the report of Gen. Hagood be printed; matter to be placed in hands of Col. Thomas, and bill to be sent to the Superintendent.

Resolution in connection with action of City Council of Charleston in establishing five (5) scholarships at the Academy, as follows:
“Whereas the City Council of Charleston has provided for five (5) scholarships in the South Carolina Military Academy upon the basis of $1500.00 per annum, to be paid into the treasury of the Academy.
“Resolved, That the Board of Visitors expresses its high appreciation of this act of municipal munificence, and that the Chairman be requested to extend to the City Council this acknowledge-

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ment of the Board.

The matter of the grant of the plot of land on the east side of the tract upon which the Citadel buildings are constructed, to the 4th Brigade S. C. V., on certain conditions; this was postponed to the next meeting of the Board.

There being no further business, the Board adjourned.

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Charleston, S. C.
March 28/98.

An extra meeting of the Board of Visitors of the S.C.M.A. at the call of the Chairman, convened at the Charleston Hotel at 8. P.M.
Present:
Maj C. S. Gadsden, Chairman
Col. J. P. Thomas
Bishop E. Capers
Col. J. J. Lucas
Gen. Jno. G. Watts
Gen. Edw. Anderson
Later in the evening, there came in
Gov. W. H. Ellerbe
and Messrs. Crum and Mauldin, W. D. Mayfield
All members of Board present.
The minutes of the meeting of the 20th January in Columbia, were read and confirmed.

The Chairman stated that the main purpose of the meeting was for a consideration of a case of Discipline, which he thought proper to pass over until later in the evening, when, on arrival of the evening train, the remaining members of the Board should come in.

Installation of City of Charleston Cadets in the Academy:
Correspondence between the Mayor of Charleston and the Chairman on this subject was read and received as information, showing five cadets, viz: Ed. Jenkins E. N. Smith
Chas. N. Esdorn Jas. Palmer
J. N. Smith

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New Appointment of Beneficiary Cadets

The Supt., Col. Coward, presented a tabular statement showing the re-apportionments, and on a resolution duly passed, the names of certain counties were placed in a hat from which were drawn the names of such counties from which deductions should be made so as to give the new counties their allotment under the law. (see table attached)

Encampment for 1898

An invitation having been received from the City Council of Laurens, asking that the Corps of Cadets make that point the scene of Encampment for 1898 – on motion the same was accepted.

Vacancy in Executive Committee

This vacancy, occasioned by the death of Gen. Johnson Hagood, was, on motion, filled by the election of Gen. Anderson.
Gen. Anderson was also elected Secretary of the Board.

On a statement from the Chairman, Five ($5) Dollars per month was allowed for clerical service for the proper care of papers and records.

Case of suspension of Cadets Robertson, Tennent, W. S. Smith, Esdorn and Crouch for breaking garrison limits.
The consideration of this grave matter occupied the attention of the Board

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for the rest of the session. Expression of opinion was invited and given by every member of the Board.
Finally, the following resolution was passed, expressive of their decision
“In the case of Cadets Robertson, Tennent, W. S. Smith, EsDorn and Crouch, suspended by the Superintendent for breach of garrison limits on night of March 19th last, the Board approves the action taken by that officer, and under ordinary conditions would, agreeably to article 82 of the Regulations, dismiss these Cadets from the Academy.
“In view, however, of the appeal of the Cadets under suspension, and considering all the circumstances of the case, as presented, the Board decides to relax the extreme penalty of the law and subject the Cadets to the internal discipline of the Academy in a form commensurate with the gravity of the offence.
“It is ordered that Sergeants Robertson and Tennent be reduced to the ranks, and that these Cadets, with Cadets W. S. Smith, EsDorn, and Crouch, be restricted to the barracks and denied all the indulgencies as to leave of absence extended to the Corps, for the space of sixty (60) days from the day of their return to the Academy.
“Ordered, further, that the Cadets be reprimanded in orders by the Chairman of the Board for their violation of a law of the Academy to which

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all cadets are committed by the Matriculation Promise that they have assumed.”

Board adjourned

Edward Anderson
Secty
per [illegible]

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In Memory Of

Johnson Hagood

Chairman Board of Visitors

from
1877
to
Jany 4 1898

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[Blank page.]

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Charleston, S. C.
April 6th ‘98

An extra meeting of the B.V. was called by the Chairman at the Citadel, Charleston, 12 M. on this, the 6th day of April.
Present: Regular Members. =
Mess. Thomas, Anderson, Lucas and the Chairman = 4
Ex. Officers Members =
The Governor, Ellerbe, Mayfield, Crum and Watts = 4, Eight in all.
Absent – Bishop Capers of the regular, and Maj. Mauldin of the Ex Officio members.

The object of the meeting was explained by the Chairman, who read a letter from Col. Coward, Supt., as follows:
“We had a riotous [illegible] at among the Cadets Citadel last night, and I beg that you come to the Citadel to advise as to proper steps to take. It might be well to get Gen. Anderson to come also.”
A resolution was passed recalling Cadet Cantey to the Citadel.
Supt. Coward presented his official report of charges and specifications marked “A” in stenographic reports of proceeding -
Verbal statements of the affair of 4th of April were made by Col. Coward, Supt, Lieut. McDonald, Commandant, Maj Thomas and Lieut Parker.
It was ordered that the examination of the Cadets involved in the disorders

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be by classes. The examination of the members of the first class – each separately, was continued till near 7 P.M. (a recess having been taken from 2 to 4 P.M. for dinner) when the Board adjourned till 10 A.M. Thursday.
The B.V. met again at 10 A.M. Thursday, all 8 members present, and continued the personal examination of Cadets of the 2nd 3rd and 4th classes.
(see stenographic notes transcribed for statements of officers, and questions and answers in Cadet examinations)
At this point in the proceedings, the Board was approached by Mr. W. St. J. Jervey asking to be allowed to attempt some solution of the difficult situation by approaching the mutinous cadets. The Board consented to this, and took a recess from 2 to 4 P.M.
The Board reassembled at 4 P.M., present the same number 8.
Mr. Jervey and Ex. Gov. Sheppard appeared and reported that they had seen and conferred with the cadets, and presented a paper which was received, and after receiving the thanks of the Chairman, they retired. This paper was received as information by order.
The re-examination of the members of the first class was then ordered, and after three members had been called, the Board adjourned until 9 A.M. Friday.
The Board of Visitors assembled pursuant to adjournment, at 9 A.M.
Present the same number 8.

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Col. Thomas moved, and it was carried, that further examination of cadets be discontinued.
It was also moved and carried that the members of the faculty be invited to appear before the Board, and each officer was requested, and did give his views on the conduct of cadets, and frankly speak as to what measure of punishment those cadets deserved at the hands of the B.V.
It was then moved and carried that the Board proceed to act on the charges and specifications submitted by the Supt.
Gov. Ellerbe moved that 24 members of the First Class be expelled.
Col. Thomas asked to amend this motion (accepted by Gov. Ellerbe) that the charges and specifications of the Supt. against cadets of the First Class whose names appear on paper marked “B”, having been sustained, they be expelled from the Academy – Carried.
Yeas 5 – Nay’s 2 (Maj Lucas not rating)
The following are the names of the cadets who were expelled from First Class:
Ashley Greneker Maner
Beaty Horrall Mayes
Brown Josey Moore, D.
Carson Langley, C. Nance
Champlain Langley, J. Padgett, L.
Cunningham Ligon Sherard.
over -

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Singleton Steele Walker, L.
Balle Roddy Royall

Col. Thomas made the same motion of expulsion of those members of the Second Class whose names appeared on the paper “B”, and who were not excepted therefrom by order of the B.V.: Carried Yeas 5 – Nays 3.
Subsequently Maj Lucas stated that he had thought of not voting, but having heard the statements and views of the faculty, he asked to have his vote recorded in favor of expulsion
The following is list of cadets expelled from Second Class:
Dobson – McGee – Sawyer
Foster – Hazzard, E – Springs
Simmons – Thomas – Ehrich
Halsey – Moise

By motion, the roll of the Third Class was taken up, and testimony of each member read by the stenographer.
Gen. Anderson moved that action of expulsion be taken in regard to these cadets, as in the higher classes, excepting Clayton, Bruce, and Moore: Carried
Yeas 7 – Nays 1 (Gen Watts)
Names as follows –
Walker, A. – Riley – Rennie
Sheppard – Smoak – Westmoreland
Evans – Cauthen – Bonham

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Sanders and Ott and Collins
* (see below)
Gen. Anderson moved that like action as in higher classes, be taken as to names of the Fourth Class on paper “B” except Cadets Still, Nix and Parker = Carried:
Yeas 7 – Nays 1 (Gen Watts)
Names as follows:
Bamberg – Claffy – Copeland
Croft – Darby – Egan
Hazzard, W – Linton – McCall
O’Driscoll – Padgett, P – Poe
Richardson, A – Sanders, J – Scott
Wilbur – Lorick

* Mr. Mayfield moved that paper introduced by Maj Lucas, bearing names of cadets who had formed a combination against Cadet Cantey, and to stand by each other and bear the consequences, be marked “C”: Carried.

The resolution “D” in regard to expelled members of the 3rd and 4th Classes, was duly passed.

A committee consisting of Gov. Ellerbe, Col. Thomas and the Chairman, was appointed to embody the action of the Board in a general order, and the Supt was instructed to publish the order for the expulsion of the cadets at once.
By resolution, whenever the words “Expulsion” or “Expelled” are used in

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these proceedings, the words “Dismissal” or “Dismissed” be substituted.
The Board then adjourned to meet again at 4 P.M.

On the Board’s reassembling the General Order prepared by the Committee was read and adapted with but a single negative vote, that of Gen Watts.

“The Board of Visitors of the S.C.M.A. have maturely considered the case of the cadets arraigned before the Board by the Supt. on the following charges and specifications, to wit:
“I find it my duty to arraign the cadets whose names appear on the following list “B” on the following charge and specifications:
Charge = Violation of paragraphs 75 & 78, Academic Regulations.
Specification #1: In that they did sign and forward a communication hereto attached and marked “A” this at the Citadel, on or about the date of April 1st 1898.
Specification #2: In that they did enter into combination and agreement to eject Cadet Cantey from his room and cadet

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barracks by force if necessary; this on or about April 4th.
Specification #3: That in pursuance of the combination and agreement as set forth in the second specification, they did meet and proceed to Cadet Cantey’s room with a rope, sticks, bayonets and other weapons, to forcibly eject him from the Academy on the night of April 4th.
Specification #4: That in pursuance of the object as set forth in the 3rd specification, they did willfully and violently attempt to enter the room of Cadet Cantey, and being ordered to their quarters by the Commandant, Superintendent, and other officers of the Academy, did positively refuse to obey same, and in insulting, profane and vulgar language, defy the said authorities and refuse to retire to their rooms; throwing down and injuring public property of the Academy, violently swearing that they would put Cadet Cantey out at all hazards, and did create such riotous noise and continue in their mutinous and rebellious conduct against all entreaties of the Superintendent and Commandant, thus necessitating the calling in of a squad of policemen to be used if necessary to prevent further violence, including loss of

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life or destruction of property. All this to great scandal and disgrace of the South Carolina Military Academy. This on or about April 4th.
(signed) Asbury Coward, Supt.
Witnesses:
Lt. McDonald
Maj Mazyck
Lt. Parker
Lt. White
Cadets: Morris, Bramlett, Hydrick, Crouch, J., Haynesworth, Derrick, F., Ellerbe, Salley and Quarles.

The Board examined each cadet thus arraigned and gave him a full hearing. The Board further summoned before them the Superintendent, the Commandant of Cadets, and all members of the academic Board, and invited their judgement as to its the matter in its disciplinary feature.
The Board decide that the aforesaid charge and specifications have been sustained, and that the cadets placed themselves in an attitude to the Academy of open, continued and flagrant rebellion in willful disregard of the obligations of their cadetship.
Ordered, therefore,
1st: That Cadets Ashley, Beaty, Brown, Carson, Champlain, Cunningham, Greneker, Horrall, Josey, Langley, C.,

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Langley, J., Ligon, Maner, Mayes, Moore, S., Nance, Padgett, Sherard, Singleton, Balle, Steele, Roddey, Walker, L. and Royall of the First Class:
Cadets Dobson, Foster, Simmons, Halsey, McGhee, Hazzard, E., Thomas, Moise, Sawyer, Springs and Ehrich of the Second Class:
Cadets Walker, A., Sheppard, Evans, Riley, Smoak, Canthen, Rennie, Westmoreland, Bonham, Sanders, Ott and Collins of the Third Class:
Cadets Bamberg, Croft, Hazzard, W., O’Driscoll, Richardson, Wilbur, Claffy, Darby, Linton, Padgett, Sanders, Lorick, Copeland, Egan, McCall, Poe and Scott of the Fourth Class, be dismissed from the Academy.
2nd: That, in the case of the Cadets of the Third and Fourth Classes dismissed, the Board will at its next meeting consider the applications for readmission to the Academy of such cadets as are embraced in these two classes.
The Board of Visitors of the S.C.M.A. have reached their conclusions with a full sense of their responsibility as the body charged by the State with the government of its military school.
The code of the Academy prescribes the manner in which cadets shall

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proceed in every case of real or alleged grievance.
The Board regret that the offending cadets selected to take the law in their own hands and to break out in naked and uncalled for and violent rebellion against the constituted authorities of the Academy. But discipline must be maintained, and influenced by the unanimous opinion of the officers of the Academy, that any condonement of the offence would be fatal to discipline; and acting upon their own judgement in the premises, the Board see no ground upon which to relax the extreme penalty of the law in such cases made and provided.
The Board repose confidence in the loyalty of the Cadets who have adhered to their duty. The Board look hopefully to the future of the Academy in its career of continued usefulness to the commonwealth.”
By order of the Board,
C. S. Gadsden
Chairman”

Letter of Mrs. M. C. Wiley in behalf of her grandson DeBohl, asking that his suspension be acted upon by Board. On motion, Cadet DeBohl was allowed to return to the Academy in October.

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Maj. Lucas gave notice of amendment to regulation #98, to be taken up at next meeting of Board.
Board then adjourned, to meet again in June. The day selected for annual commencement was June 28th.

Edward Anderson
Secretary
Per J.W.B.

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Charleston, S. C.
June 27/98

The semi-annual meeting of the Board of Visitors was held this day at the Citadel at 12 o’clock, M. Present of regular Board:
Maj. C. S. Gadsden, Chairman
Col. Jno. P. Thomas
Col. J. J. Lucas
Bishop Ellison Capers
- Ex Officio members: -
Senator W. H. Mauldin
Adj. Gen. Jno. G. Watts
Supt. Education W. D. Mayfield
In the absence of the Secretary Gen. Edward Anderson, Col. Lucas was requested to act in his stead. The Chairman read the minutes of last meeting, which were approved.
For the information of absenters from the last meeting, the Chairman read extracts from the testimony of Col. Coward. The Chairman stated that he had had two copies of the stenographic report of the evidence in the case of the 64 dismissed cadets, one copy to be retained for use of the Board, and the other to be placed in the office of the Supt. of Education.
The Chairman submitted petitions from many counties of that state asking a reconsideration of the action of the Board in dis-

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missing certain members of the First Class and the Second Class. Col. Thomas offered the following resolution which being duly seconded, was agreed to =
Resolved: That, the Board of Visitors having received with due consideration the petitions presented in behalf of the cadets dismissed at the last meeting of the Board, find it their duty to adhere to their action already taken
Petitions for restoration to cadetship were received from W. H. Evans, Jr., W. W. Smoak, O'Driscoll and J. R. Westmoreland of the Third Class, and on motion duly made and seconded, they were re-instated.
Col. Lucas offered the following resolution, which was agreed to:
Resolved: In the matter of the restoration of members of the Third and Fourth Classes, so far as pay cadets are concerned, the time be extended to October 1st; application to be made to the Chairman who shall have power to make reinstatement.
On motion of Bishop Capers, a recess was had until 5 o’clock P.M., at which hour the Board reassembled. Gen. Anderson, who came in during the morning session, being present. He was excused from duty at his re-

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quest as Secretary as his absence from his post might be cancelled at any moment.
Col. Lucas read a letter from Dr. J. M. Josey of Cypress, Darlington County, asking the reinstatement of his son, B. S. Josey of the First Class, to take effect in April next, which was declined on motion of the Secretary pro.tem.
The Chairman read special orders No. 102 of the U.S. War Dept., as follows:
“By direction of the Secretary of War, leave of absence until further orders is granted 1st Lieut. Jno. B. McDonald, 10th Cavalry, to enable him to accept the commission of Lieut Colonel 1st Reg. Alabama Volunteers. He will report to the Governor of Alabama accordingly. The travel enjoined is necessary for the public service.”
By command of Maj. Gen. Miles
H. C. Corbin, Adj. Gen.”
On motion of Bishop Capers, duly seconded, it was -
Resolved: That the Chairman of the Board be requested to address at a communication to the Adj. General of the Army with a view of ascertaining whether the recent order of Com'dg. Gen. of the U.S. Army, transferring Lt. McDonald from the position of Commandant of Cadets, to the command of the 1st Ala. Volunteers,

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terminates his connection with the S.C.M. Academy.
The Chairman called the attention of the Board to the desirability of canvassing the several counties of the state to secure the attendance of additional pay cadets, and informed the Board of the probable action of the Alumni Asso. in appropriating funds to that end in lieu of supporting a cadet as heretofore. Mr. Mayfield reported the good results to the S.C. College from similar action.
Bishop Capers submitted the following resolution, which was agreed to, viz = that the Executive Committee of the Board of Visitors be authorized to cooperate with the association of graduates in a concerted plan to secure pay cadets for the Academy, and for this purpose the sum of $200.00 if so much be necessary, be hereby appropriated.
A recess was then had to witness “Dress Parade,” and for the presentation of the “Star of the West” medal to Cadet Pate of the Fourth Class, by the Chairman. When the Board reassembled, Col. Coward read an outline of his report, showing the following vacancies for beneficiary cadets, viz =

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Anderson 2 Barnwell 1
Beaufort 1 Berkeley 1
Charleston 2 Cherokee 1
Chester 2 Chesterfield 1
Colleton 1 Darlington 1
Dorchester 1 Fairfield 1
Florence 1 Greenville 2
Georgetown 1 Hampton 1
Lancaster 1 Laurens 1
Lexington 1 Marlboro 1
Marion 1 Richland 1
Newberry 2 Spartanburg 2
York 1
which was approved.
An invitation was received from the College of Charleston, to attend the commencement exercises of that time honored institution at 8:45 P.M. Col. Lucas and Mr. Mayfield were requested to represent the Board, the other members wishing to be present at the commencement exercises of the Polytechnic and Calliopean Societies.
On motion the Board adjourned until 12 M. on Tuesday, the 28th inst.
Tuesday June 28
The Board of Visitors met at 12 M.
Present the Chairman and Messrs. Thomas, Lucas, Crum and Bishop Capers
The application of J. O’H. Sanders for reinstatement was referred to the Chairman to examine the record and decide upon this case (His record

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June 27 1898

did not warrant his return to the Academy & he was so notified)
A brief review of the financial condition of the Academy was made, from which it was estimated that the deficit, which has existed for many years & which last November was stated then at $4321.72, would probably stand at 3130.26 on 1st November 1898 -
On motion the Quarter Master Lieut. White, was permitted to give his official notes to the following parties to close their open accounts
Mesr Walker Evans $442.36
Mesr S. H. Wilson & Co 429.50
Mesr Welch & Eason 1000.
Mesr Jacobs 561
Col. Coward, the Superintendent, read his report and subsequently the reports of the several members of the faculty. A report was also submitted from Lieut McDonald Commandant from Alabama where he was posted on duty with the 1st Regiment Alabama Volunteers
Col. Coward, Supt, then placed the following letter in the hands of the Chairman
Citadel Charleston June 28
To the Chairman of the
Board of Visitors
Dear Sir
When the circumstances of the rebellion, or [illegible], of April 4th had been fully investigated and acted upon by the Board of Visitors

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that no reason to think that the Board condemned my action in the premise in any report whatever - By the expression of opinion made yesterday in your meeting, it seems to me that my course has not met the approval of all the members of the Board - This being the case I am unwilling to remain in any respect a cause of embarrassment to the Board. I therefore respectfully tender my resignation as Superintendent of the Academy, to take effect at any time, within six months, that will least affect the interests of the Academy.
Very Respectfully
signed Asbury Coward
Supt
To which a reply was given by the Board of Visitors as follows
Citadel June 28 1898
The Superintendent of the Academy [illegible] sent to the Chairman of the Board of Visitors a communication in which he tenders his resignation upon the ground of his conviction that his conduct in the premises of the late rebellion did not meet the approval of all the members of the Board, and the communication having been read and duly considered, the following action was unanimously taken
Resolved, that the Board of Visitors of the South Carolina Military Academy has received the communication of the Superintendent

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June 27 1898

with surprise and regret.
Resolved, that the Board does not regard any expression of opinion of one, or more, of its members, which may be made in its private session, as conveying its judgements and entertaining for the Superintendent feelings of the sincerest respect & trust, and valuing his services as most important to the wellbeing of the Academy, respectfully decline to accept his resignation and earnestly request his prompt acquiescence in their unanimous action.
Resolved that this action of the Board be communicated to the Supt by the Chairman of the Board.

The following reply closes this correspondence
Citadel July 4 1898
Col C. S. Gadsden
Chairman Board of Visitors
Dear Sir
In view of the unanimous action of the Board of Visitors conveyed through your letter of the 2nd inst, I willingly withdraw the tender of my resignation made in my letter of June 28th with sincere appreciation of your personal assurance of confidence in my zeal and discretion, I am
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
(signed) Asbury Coward

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(Proceeding of the meeting of the Board of the 28th June 1898 continued from page 155)
The Board of Visitors then at 2.30 PM adjourned to meet at 8 15 PM at the Hibernian Hall to attend the commencement exercises of the Academy after which the Board adjourned - 
Edward Anderson
Secretary of the Board

Report of the Superintendent
Head Quarters South Carolina Mil Academy
June 28 1898
Col C. S. Gadsden
Chairman Bd Visitors
Sir: I have the honor to submit the following report of the academic work of the year just ending

[Written on side of page.]

Enrollment

[Main page.]

The total enrollment 139 pay cadets to beneficiary 69. This apparent excess of beneficiary cadets is due to the fact that Cadet Lesesne was at first received as a beneficiary, but was in November transferred to the pay list and a beneficiary [illegible words] vacated was received from Berkley County.
There have been only 68 Beneficiary present at any time during the year

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Casualties 139
By Honorable discharge 5
By Retirement 4
By Dismissal 68
By Expulsion for Desertion 8
Dropped 1 86
At present on the roll 53
Pay 16 – Beneficiary 37
Of these 37 beneficiary cadets five having completed the course will be presented to you for graduation. There will then be left 32 beneficiary cadets on the roll, and consequently 36 vacancies to be filled. By your action of April 9th opportunity was given to the members of the 3rd & 4th classes thus dismissed to apply for reinstatement at your present meeting. The number of vacancies to be filled in the beneficiary list by competitive examination will therefore be diminished by the number of such reinstatements.
The causes being [illegible] about the extraordinary number of casualties during the year have been officially and fully made known to, and have been acted on by, the Board of Visitors. It is not deemed necessary therefore to recapitulate them here - Suffice it to say they have been of the gravest character, and that the resulting conditions render it necessary that more than ordinary efforts should be made by all who are loyal to this institution to recruit its depleted strength in numbers

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and to maintain unimpaired its usefulness.

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Academic Board

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I submit herewith the recommendation of the Academic Board for your action upon the results of the year’s work and the final examination (Doc 1)
Also recommendation as to classroom furniture (Doc 2)

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Reports of Professors

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In the Department of Moral and Political Sciences I am glad to state that the usual course was satisfactorily accomplished by the members of the First Class presented to you for graduation.
The text books were the same used last year but the accompanying lectures were considerably varied. Since April I convened on the course of instruction in Military laws and conduct of court martial etc., begun by the Commandant before his assignment to duty with Volunteer Troops of Alabama.
I submit herewith the originals of professor reports, as Doc 3. a, b, c, d, e, f, g
Maj Cummings Doc 3a
Maj Thomas 3b
Maj Mazyck 3c
Capt Bond 3d
Capt Coleman 3e
Lieut McDonald 3f
Lieut Parker 3g

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June 17 1898

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Property

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I am glad to state that the condition of the Citadel building, is satisfactory except that the roof of the west wing still permits considerable leaking whenever we have considerable rain with much wind. The allowance for repairs made by the Gen Assembly has been a great relief to our narrow resources, and should be made annually in order to keep the property in good state of presentation.

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Insurance

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The insurance policies will all be renewed for five years at the date of expiration in August next with the special appropriation of $1200, now in the State Treasury awaiting application.

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Recommendation

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Reasonably recommend that the Genl Assembly be asked to appropriate as follows –
The usual amount for the support of 68 beneficiary cadets $20,000
For class-room furniture 1,000
For repairs to property 750
For library 250
For equipment of physical laboratory 1000
$23000
Very Respectfully
Signed Asbury Coward
Supt

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Doc 1 -
Recommendations of the Academic Board
Extracts Minutes Acd Board
The following resolutions were adopted
Moved, That the members of the First Class, having attained the required average, be recommended for graduation.
Moved, That the members of the Second Class, having attained the required average, be recommended for advancement.
Moved That the members of the Third Class, with an exception of Cadet Bruce, having attained the required average, be advanced.
Moved – That Cadet Bruce absent from the final examination, be required to stand a satisfactory examination in October next, in order to be advanced with the class.
Moved That Cadet Still of the Fourth Class, deficient in Mathematics, Physics, and on the general average be turned back to the Fourth Class of next year.
Moved That Baer be allowed an examination in Physics in October next in order to be advanced with his class.
Moved That all the other members of the Fourth Class be advanced – having attained the required average 

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June 17 1898

Moved –
That probationary cadets Jenkins, Palmer, Smith E, and Smith J be assigned to the Fourth Class of next year.
Moved – That probationary cadet Oetjen having shown incapacity to accomplish the Fourth Class course be retired -
Certified copy
Signed O.J. Bond
Sec Ac Board

Doc 2
Extract Minutes Academic Board
Moved That the Board of Visitors be requested to ask the Legislature for a special appropriation to supply the class rooms with proper furniture 
Certified copy
Signed O.J. Bond
Sec Ac Board
Report of Maj St James Cummings

Col Asbury Coward
Supt SCMA
Sir
I have the honor to submit the following report for the last years work in my department. The fourth class studied the History of England for one half of the year and English grammar for the other half. The third class studied the History of the World for one half of the year and for the remainder of the time Rhetoric and Logic. The second class studied Intellectual Philosophy and the History of English & American

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Literature with a special attention given to two of Shakespeare’s plays.
The general progress of the class was good. Respectfully submitted
Signed. St James Cummings
Major & Pro Eng & History

Report of Maj Robert G. Thomas
June 25 1898
Col Asbury Coward – Supt
Sir -
I have the honor to make the following report for the Depart of Mathematics and Engineering.
The Fourth Class was instructed by Capts Bond & Coleman in algebra.
The other classes are under my instruction.
The Third Class took up the study of Geometry with a new textbook, Phillips & Fishers, which has the merit of showing how a figure should be constructed at the same time that it is used in demonstration and which further has the advantage of gaining [illegible words] of models recently constructed for use of Yale University.
Plane & special trigonometry, and surveying followed in order. Considerable instruction was given out of the class room in the use of instruments. The field work of levelling and running out a rail road curve was done on the square which was surveyed and the area calculated by each one of the class

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June 27 1898

The Second Class took the usual course in Analytic Geometry and the Calculus – No change was made in the textbooks used. Particular attention was paid to those processes that are of practical use in the applied mechanics.
The First Class studied Analytic Mechanics, Hydro Mechanics, and strength of materials with stresses in structure. These subjects constituted the course in civil engineering for this class - For the first named the same textbook as usual was employed. For Hydro Mechanics a work by the same author as that of the subject preceeding was used for the first time.
It is a very practical treatise and is an important addition to the course.
Mather’s Strength of Materials was adopted this year. This work covers almost all that [illegible], previously used, does; and talks in addition of the strength of proper and [illegible] for machinery, also of the stresses in simple form of roof and bridge trusses - The text in all cases was supplemented by explanatory lectures
The grading was upon monthly written examinations
Respectly submitted
signed Robt. G. Thomas
Pro Mathematics & Engineering

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Report of Prof Mazyck
Col A Coward Sup
Sir
I beg leave to report the usual course in my Dept has been fully, and with few exceptions, satisfactorily accomplished by the Classes as reoganized after the disturbances occurring about the middle of April
The final Examination covering the year's work were very satisfactory
Very respectly
signed P P Mazyck
Maj & Prof Mod Langs

Report of Prof O. J. Bond
Col A Coward Supt
Sir
I have the honor to submit my annual report of the work done in the Dept of drawing and book keeping
The First Class has accomplished about the usual course in double entry book keeping
The Second Class has been engaged for the year in machine drawing and design - one half using [illegible] senior course as a text book and the other half using [illegible] machine design. Each member of this class has made from eleven to seventeen complete drawings. Next year they will have three month's course in perspective
The Third Class began drawing

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June 27 1898

in October last, using France's text book. As usual, they discontinued the descriptive geometry on May 1st, and took two month's work in topographic drawing. Previous to April 9th half of the fourth class was under my charge in Algebra - Since then the entire class has been under the charge of Captain Coleman in that department and he will report their work
Respectly
signed O. J. Bond
Cap and Pro Math Pro Drawing & Book Keeping

Report of Capt J. J. Coleman Pro Phy
Col Coward Supt
Sir
I have the honor to make the following report
The First Class completed the course in Astronomy
The Second Class studied Ames' History of Physics from Oct to Feby
This text book is an exceedingly good one
The Fourth recited to Capt Bond and myself in Algebra until April 10th; they then recited to me in one section. With few exceptions the members of this class have done very well in Algebra
I taught the Fourth Class Physiology and Physics in two sections until april when they were combined into one section
The Cadets holding city scholarships

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have recited to me in Algebra in a separate section
I desire to call your attention to the exceptional good orders maintained by the fourth class during the past two and a half months
Very Respectly
Signed J. J. Coleman
Capt & Prof Physics

Report J B McDonald 1st Lieut USA

Head Quarters 1st Alabama U.S.V. Infty
U S Camp near Mobile
June 20 1898
To the Supt SCMA
Sir
I have the honor to submit the following report of the Military Department for the year 1897-8
The practical work has [illegible] the usual drill in squad, company and battalion, together with such tactical problems as could be solved on the parade ground.
In this the cadets individually and as a battalion, have shown the greatest interest and have maintained their high standard of proficiency so often complimented by the Inspector General of the USA in his annual report
My separation from the Academy, by promotion for duty and troops in the field, has prevented the usual field exercises so beneficial in teaching the actual duties of soldiers in the 

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June 27 1898

field and on campaigns, and which I find sadly wanting in the volunteers with whom I am now serving - I can not too strongly recommend to the authorities the retention and elaboration of this useful method of instruction
The theoretical work has [illegible] the course heretofore followed with the exception of the heliograph signalling, which was not possible because the War Dept failed to supply the necessary material and instruments
Discipline has been maintained on the West Point standard and entitles the institution to the highest consideration
Very Respectly
signed J. B. McDonald
1st Lieut Col 1st Ala USV Infantry
Com of Cadets

Report of Asst Prof Francis L Parker
Col A Coward Sup
I have the honor to submit the following report of the work done by the classes under my institution for the past year
In general the work done has been very satisfactory, and with the exception of the cadets dismissed for insubordination, all have completed the courses
The first class completed the course in Genl Chemistry Qualitative Analysis and Geology. The work in Geology was not very satisfactory
The second class completed course in Genl Chemistry

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The third class completed first year's work in General & Experimental Chemistry
Very Respectly
signed Francis L Parker Jr
Lieut & Asst Pro in charge Chemistry

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Aug 2 1898

Beneficiary Scholarship
The Executive Committee of the Board of Visitors met at 12 M Monday Aug 4th at the Citadel in Charleston to examine the applications for scholarships from the several counties of the State - Present Col J P Thomas & C S Gadsden. Capt Anderson was unable to be present an acct of military duty on Sullivans Island Battery of Heavy Artillery - 
The following applications have been favorably considered

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Anderson

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B. H. Sadler, L A Smith, E R [illegible]
R. S. Elgin, C. H. Carter, S L Sanders
J B Harris R. P. Russell T H Russell
A J Ballard W. C. [illegible]
H. J. McGee

[Written on side of page.]

Barnwell

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J. E. Green, H C Groves, S A Morrall
B. N. [illegible] C M Turner

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Beaufort

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W. E. Hutson

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Berkeley

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E. E. Ballentine - A K Ball
A L [illegible]

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Charleston

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E J. Corkle, G. F. Mitchell, W. S. Fitzsimmons
F. S. Mueller, W. E. F. Jackson, J P [illegible]
G. S. Willard, S. B. Thomas Jr R E. G. Sheehan
E. I. H. [illegible], H M Walter Jr

[Written on side of page.]

Cherokee

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W. E. Peeler Arthur J. Bridges

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Beneficiary applicants 
1898

Chester
W. C. McFadden, A. M Crop
S D Craig, I H Lewis, G H Miller
H [illegible], J E Kelsey, J W Lawry
R. E. Sims
Chesterfield
H H Horrall, A F. [illegible]
Colleton
L. N. Fishburne, R DeTreville
J N. Walker, H. E. Savage J DuBois
J. R. Godley
Darlington
E. B. Boykin, K. Law, H L Cannon
J L [illegible], J E Wilson
W. J. Beasley
Dorchester
D. F. [illegible], H. P. Miles, J. P. Lesesne
C. D. Millard, S. P. Miles
Fairfield
W. D. Tennent, R. J. Robinson
R. E. Arnette, L. R. Craig
M. L. Lathan, T. M. McMaster
N. J. Richardson
Florence
E M Allen, F J Barringer
T. B. Young, C. E Gasque
P J [illegible], J. J. McClure
Georgetown
T. S. Tucker, T G Bath
Greenville
W K. Townes H. E. Raines W Callahan
L R. Jones, J F Moore D. K Humphries
J D Burton

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Hampton
J. W. Manner, H C Gooding, J H [illegible]
J. L. Barnes, F. S. Hughes, W. J. Lawton
W. M. Lightsey
Lancaster
G [illegible] Beaty, J R [illegible], L J Horton
L B. Stephenson, S A [illegible] Jr. J. C. Massey
C E. Garvin
Laurens
C E. Daniel, J B Pitts G E McCrady
A C Owings
Lexington
W. S. [illegible], F Able, C C Croft
Marlboro
A A McLeod J R Easterling J. S. R. Bunch
J W Everett, B Parker P. C. Covington
Marion
P W Owens B [illegible] J F Watson
J. B. White, S. L Bethea H H Carmichael
S. L. Watson
Newberry
H. W. Dominick, E N Mittle F. P. Bradley
Richland
A. R. Heyward, T J Weston
Spartanburg
St J. Wingo, F. E. Zimmerman
H. H. Workman, [illegible words]
York
W. S. Chaplin, J W Crawford J W McConnell
G. C. Latimer, T. C. Marshall P H Moore
W. S. Hutchinson W L Hart J E Gettys
P. R. Sandifer, A R Barrett
E M Moore

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SC Military Academy
Citadel Charleston Nov 1 1898
The annual meting of the Board of Visitors was held this day at the Citadel at 12 M
Present Col Jno. P. Thomas - Capt Edward Anderson Maj J. J. Lucas and the Chairman of the [illegible] members, and Hon W D Mayfield, Hon W. H. Maudlin, Hon H H Crum and Genl J. G. Watts of the Ex Officio members 8 - absent the Governor, and Bishop Capers
The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed
The annual review of the Corps was dispensed with
The inspection of quarters &c was postponed to 4 o'C P. and the Board took up the protest from Chester County

R E Sims vs - Geo H Miller
Mr J E McFadden was heard for Mr Sims, and Mr J. C. McLure for Cadet Miller. At the conclusion of their arguments they submitted & left in the hands of the Board a paper marked "A" setting forth by affidavits &c the facts of the case as taken in the countys of Chester and Fairfield. After they had left the question was taken on a motion to test the sense of the Board as to the

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right of Cadet Miller to retain his scholarship, which vote submitted in a tie 4-4 -
The Board took a recess till 4 PM -
On reassembling the inspection of the quarters, hospital, recitation rooms, and mess hall was made -
A protest was then heard from [illegible] as to the examinations in Barnwell County and the Board declined to open the case
A vacancy was reported from Newberry County which was referred to the Supt of Education for the necessary action to fill same
No action was deemed necessary in the cases of cadets of the third and fourth classes who had been dismissed on acct of the April rebellion
While the Board sympathized in their difficulty in entering other institutions further action by it was inexpedient
Col Thomas reported for the information of the Board his visits to difficult counties of the state in the interest of the Academy - 
The annual report of the Chairman to be transmitted to the Legislature was read to the Board and ordered

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to be forwarded to the Supt of Education - It was thought proper to give detailed statements of amounts asked for as appropriations & so ordered
The Chairman of the Board and the State Supt of Education were charged with a revision of the method of appointment of state cadets
Any change in the date of the annual meeting of the Board was postponed to the consideration of the next meeting of the Board
The case of Miller vs Sims was again taken up and the Chairman was instructed to submit the case as embodied in the paper marked "A" to the absent members of the BV (Gov Ellerbe & Bishop Capers) for decision in consequence of the tie vote in the Board with the eight members present
It was left to the Executive Committee to decide as to whether the cadet corps should go into encampment next summer
Then Supt Coward read his report covering this period from June to November - which was ordered attached to the annual report
On motion the Board of Visitors adjourned

Edward Anderson,
Secretary.