Minutes of the Board of Visitors of The Citadel, 1906

Minutes of the Board of Visitors of The Citadel, 1906

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

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Charleston (S. C.)

[Page 1]

Citadel – Charleston June 27th 1906

The Board of Visitors convened this morning at 12 o’Clock noon.

Present Maj Gadsden Chairman, and Messrs Lucas Lewis, Sheppard, Blythe, Frost, Herbert, Martin, Marshall and Govr Heyward – 10, Messrs Frost, Martin and Govr Heyward arrived at 1 15 pm –

The Minutes of meeting December 12th read & confirmed.

Report of Superintendent Coward was read, received as information and ordered recorded in the minutes –

[Page 2]

Citadel, Charleston, S.C., June 27th 1906

To the Chairman Board of Visitors,

Dear Sir: - I respectfully submit report for the Academic year 1905-6.

Enrolment. – In my report at your Annual meeting in December 1905, it was shown that there were properly on the roll of the Academy one hundred and sixty-eight (168) cadets – In January two Pay cadets were admitted on your warrants, thus bringing up the total enrolment for the year to one hundred and seventy. Classified, Beneficiary 68, - Pay 102 = 170

Casualties. “B” Cadet. “P” Cadet Total
By Death 1 0 - - - 1
By Hon. Discharge 1 14 - - - 15
By Per. To Retire 1 16 - - - 17
By Dismissal 1 3 - - - 4
By Expulsion 0 3 - - - 3 - - - 40
At present on roll 130

Absent
With leave - - - 2
In Suspension - - - 1 - - - 3
Present for duty 127

[Page 3]

You will observe that this is an unusually large list of Casualties. The only explanation I can give is that it has been largely due to the immaturity of the Students, and the unwise indulgence of parents in asking for furloughs and leaves of absence, and in lending too easy sympathy to complaints under the steady pressure of progressive work and the restraints of discipline. Nearly all of the cases of “Permits to Retire” and some of those under the head of Honorably Discharged arose from conscious inability to keep up with the class work, and yearning to go to some school where the conditions are less strenuous. The Standard of Discipline and Academic work has been steadily maintained throughout the year. For fuller details I refer to the reports of Commandant of Cadets and of the other professors. My own class room work was confined to lectures and text book studies on the Constitution of the U.S., the Constitution of this State, and a treatise on Political Economy. The final examination on the last was exceptionally good.

[Page 4]

The building will need very general patching, cleaning and painting during the summer. It was understood that the additional $500, above the usual appropriation for repairs was intended to improve the parade in the quadrangle. Upon consulting the City Engineer I find that the amount is not sufficient to do one half of the paving with either concrete or vitrified brick. For this reason the work has not been undertaken. It will be necessary for the Board to determine what is to be done in the matter.

The sickness and continued feebleness of the Quarter Master for over three months must explain the somewhat shabby appearance of the premises. The conditions arising from the loss of his usually energetic work, forethought and experience brought us to realize what an important factor he has been in promoting the welfare of the Academy. With your approval, I undertook to look after the ordering supplies, the payments of accounts and got Major Bond to take charge of the book-keeping. That both Captain White and the institution be properly protected, he was given the power of Capt. White’s attorney.

In working over the books Mr. J. E. Smith has kindly given cheerful assistance. The books have

[Page 5]

written up and checked to date, and I hand you herewith the usual condensed statement of Receipts and Expenditures, as audited and verified by Mr. Smith who has for several years past audited these annual statements. I suggest that your Board appoint a Committee to examine the books and accounts for its own satisfaction. As the Quarter Master is the only officer under bond, it would be well, I think, that a complete inventory be made in proper legal form of all property for which the Quarter Master may be responsible. As much work must be done during the vacation it is manifestly important that the new officer for this department be promptly chosen and invested with his office.

The resignations of Captain White and Surgeon Parker, both on account of broken health, interrupts a continuity of faithful service that has left its impress upon the history of the institution. The one, an alumnus of the Academy, has given the resources of his scientific skill with loyal freedom since its reopening in 1882; the other, though not an alumnus, called into its service a few months later, has served her with a zeal, energy and ready resourcefulness that has contributed greatly to its welfare. Both will carry into their well-earned retirement the earnest well wishes of their associates for their well being and comfort.

[Page 6]

And, now, gentlemen Sir, in closing the sixteenth year of my connection with the Academy as its Superintendent, permit me to briefly enumerate some of the changes and events that have taken place under my administration. On resuming command at the Citadel in October 1890, I found a new code of academic Regulations to interpret and enforce, and the proper relations to be defined between the new officer, the Commandant of Cadets, and myself in the matter of discipline. To do this without antagonizing unnecessarily many long fixed precedents, was a somewhat difficult problem. With patience and tact, and with the ready cooperation of Lieut. Towers the newly appointed Commandant matters were brought into working shape.

During the first eight years of the revived institution, only one encampment had been held. Under my superintendency encampments or equivalents thereof have been held every year but two, and the new feature of holding the graduating exercises at the place of the encampment were added in 1893. Besides these encampments the Corps was carried to the Augusta Fair, the Atlanta Exposition, the great military gathering at Savannah and to the Louisiana Purchase Exposition

[Page 7]

in St. Louis, Mo. A short visit was also made to Charlotte, N.C. from the camp at Rock Hill. On all of these encampments and trips the military proficiency and gentlemanly deportment of the cadets have raised the institution immeasurably in public estimation.

Another great improvement is the change in the method of grading, from the “daily marking” system to the system of monthly examinations. Another, the introduction of Laboratory methods in Chemistry and Physics, and the expansion of work in the English department, and still another the provision for elective studies in the Senior year.

That the corps has reached a high standard in discipline, drill and general military excellence has been uniformly attested by disinterested officers of the Army sent to make official inspections of the Academy. The high esteem in which our graduates are held as teachers, especially as Commandants of military schools in this and other states even granting special individual merits, is, nevertheless, a strong testimonial as to the excellence and

[Page 8]

effectiveness of the work done here.

During this period of sixteen years, three extremely grave crises were safely passed. The burning of a large part of the Citadel main building in 1892; the fight for the destruction of the Academy in the Constitutional Convention of 1895; and rebellion of the cadets in 1898. To the loyalty and energy of yourself and other graduates with the cheerful cooperation of Gov. Tillman it was due that the restored building was ready to receive the cadets on the first of October following, - just eight months after the burning. 2(With proper military firmness, admired throughout the country, the outbreak of 1898 was effectively quelled and the discipline of the Academy firmly vindicated). 1(In the Constitutional Convention of 1895 the opponents of the Academy embraced the opportunity to destroy make a decisive fight for its elimination. After a somewhat bitter fight, the cause of the Citadel triumphed, and all signs of opposition practically disappeared.

The consideration shown now by the committees of the General Assembly mark the great advance of the Academy in public opinion as an important factor of the State’s development.

[Page 9]

This recital, gentl dear Sir, is not made for the purpose of magnifying my own agency, for I have been but a co-worker with you and the Academic officers associated with me in the constant endeavor to reach this result. I have recalled them only with the view of showing that the institution now occupies a place in public esteem that should fill with pride the heart of every alumnus, that there has been no decadence, but, on the contrary, there has been through many vicissitudes, a steady, progressive, substantial growth.

Very respectfully
Asbury Coward
Sup’t.

Accompanying papers,
Reports of Professors – 8
of Surgeon 1

Case of Cadet Irby (Suspended)
Letter of Football team,
List of Vacancies in State Beneficiary scholarships.

[Page 10]

[Written on side of page.]

Repairing quadrangle

[Main page.]

Resolved the Five hundred dollars, be appropriated for repairing the quadrangle with concrete, and an additional one hundred dollars if found necessary be appropriated from the funds of the Academy, if available –

[Written on side of page.]

Examination a/cs Quarter Master

[Main page.]

Col Lewis was appointed a Committee to examine a/cs of Quarter Master, and report on method of keeping these a/cs in future, report of Receipts and Expenditures July 1st 1905 to June 20th 1906 received and referred to this Committee –

[Written on side of page.]

Case of Cadet Irby –

[Main page.]

The Board having carefully considered the case of Cadet Irby suspended by the Superintendent for making and incomplete report of offences coming to his knowledge as officer of the day, made following record – we find the following facts:

That a custom has prevailed among cadet privates

[Page 11]

[Written on side of page.]

Case of Cadet Irby

[Main page.]

of the First Class while on duty as officer of the day to ignore violations of the regulations by their classmates, but that this custom has never before come to the notice of the Board of Faculty either officially or personally. Therefore be it resolved – That we commend the actions of the Superintendent in suspending Cadet Irby, but that in view of the extenuating circumstances Cadet Irby is restored to his place in the Corps. Be it further resolved: That we condemn in the strongest terms the custom heretofore referred to and hereby place upon record the determination of the Board to stamp out said custom and to enforce the regulations in this regard hereafter, by recourse to the extreme penalty of the law.

Resolved – That the Superintendent in proper orders publish to the Corps so much of these resolutions as may be deemed most expedient. This report was adopted, and after Atty Frost had completed his argument in behalf of Cadet Irby, the board @ 3 20 pm. adjourned until 9 30 am June 28th.

Citadel June 28th 1906 @ 10 am –

The Board assembled at 10 o’Clock this morning, present Maj Gadsden, Chairman, Messrs Lucas, Sheppard, Lewis, Marshall, Frost, Governor Heyward – Messrs Herbert and Martin arrived about noon, having been unavoidably detained –

[Written on side of page.]

Petition of Foot Ball Team

[Main page.]

Petition of Foot Ball team to be allowed to play a game in Columbia during Fair week was referred to the Board, with an endorsement of the Commandant of Cadets disapproving the request, after consideration by the board the following action was taken-

Resolved: “That action of Commandant of Cadets in disapproving request is approved, provided that if it is practicable to take the Corps to Columbia during Fair week, the team be allowed to play.”

[Written on side of page.]

Report of Commandant

[Main page.]

The very interesting report of the Commandant was heard read with much interest by the Board, and referred to a Special Committee, consisting of Maj Lucas, Gen’l Frost, and Mr Sheppard for report –

[Page 12]

[Written on side of page.]

Discharge of advertising committee

[Main page.]

Committee on advertising the merits of the Academy in influential papers of the Country, consisting of Col Coward and Gen’l Frost were upon request discharged from further consideration of the subject –

[Written on side of page.]

Graduating Class of 1906

[Main page.]

The following are the names of the graduating class of 1906 in the order of class standing –
F. B. Cully Richland SC R. E. Corcoran Charleston SC
J. J. McLure Jr Chester SC W. W. Dick Charleston SC
J W Simons Jr Charleston SC J. G. Lowry Chester SC
F. F. La Roche Charleston SC H. G. Smith Orangeburg SC
F. G. Eason Charleston SC J. O. Craig York SC
J. M. Moorer Dorchester SC C. A. Roof Lexington SC
J. H. Johnson Barnwell SC F. J. Oaks Darlington SC
G. W. Howe Charleston SC L. E. Langston Spartanburg SC
R. D. Eadie Charleston SC Clark Waring Richland SC
C. C. Wyche Newberry SC W. P. Pollitzer Beaufort SC
R C Moore York SC W. A. Smith Charleston SC
J R Dickson York SC W. E. McDonald Jr Fairfield SC
R. W. Wingo Spartanburg SC H. H. Stevens Berkley SC
F. H. McKinney Greenville SC T. C. McGee Greenville SC
R. E. Gribben Barnwell SC F. G. Auld Richland SC
P J Harrison Greenville SC E. J. Blank Charleston SC
C. F. Colvin Fairfield SC C. W. Muldrow Florence SC

[Written on side of page.]

County Beneficiary Scholarships

[Main page.]

Counties having vacant Beneficiary Scholarships

Anderson 1 Greenwood 1
Barnwell 1 Greenville 2
Beaufort 2 Kershaw 1
Berkley 1 Laurens 1
Charleston 2 Lexington 1
Chester 2 Marlboro 1
Darlington 1 Newberry 1
Dorchester 1 Richland 1
Fairfield 1 Spartanburg 2
Georgetown 1 York 2

[Page 13]

[Written on side of page.]

Resignation of Dr Francis L. Parker as Surgeon

[Main page.]

Resignation of Dr Francis L. Parker as Surgeon of the Academy was accepted by the Board effective Oct 1st 1906, and the following resolution was adopted “The Board of Visitors of the South Carolina Military Academy recognizing the faithful and skillful manner in which Dr Francis L. Parker has for so many years discharged the important duties as Surgeon to this Institution, and wishing to place on record their high appreciation of his services; Resolved, that they accept with great regret his resignation handed them today, and wishing further to convey to Dr Parker their feelings on this subject, be it further, Resolved, that a copy of these resolutions be sent to Dr Parker, conveying to him the appreciation of the Board, and their regret for the necessity of his resignation”

[Written on side of page.]

Resignation of Capt W. W. White Quarter Master

[Main page.]

Resignation of Capt William W. White as Quarter Master was accepted by the Board effective July 1st 1906, and the Board unanimously passed the following resolution – “The Board of Visitors of the South Carolina Military Academy at a meeting held today have received the resignation of Capt William W. White, Quarter Master of this Institution. Being fully aware of the enthusiastic manner in which he has always discharged his official duties, at all times demonstrating his love and loyalty to the Academy in the days of its great need, be it resolved; That the Board of Visitors accept his resignation only under the circumstances which calls it forth. Be it further resolved; that he has the best wishes of our Board for his early recovery and for his future welfare, and further that a copy of this resolution be sent to Capt White”

[Written on side of page.]

Election of Faculty

[Main page.]

The Board elected the following members of the Faculty for the ensuing year commencing Oct 1st 1906 – Col Asbury Coward, Superintendent, and Maj St James Cummings, Maj R. G. Thomas, Maj O. J. Bond, and Capt J. W. Moore as Professors, Capt H. E. Raines Quarter Master, and R. S. Cathcart, Surgeon. Professors Mazyck, Coleman

[Page 14]

and Lynes failed of election, consequently their term of service expires September 30th 1906.

[Written on side of page.]

Special Police Station Building Committee

[Main page.]

Resolved that a Committee be appointed to consist of three members of the Board of Visitors and two members of the Academic Board with the Chairman of this Board as ex officio Chairman of the Committee, who are to associate with them an Architect, of their selection, for the purpose of recommending the necessary changes to be made in the Police Station building in order to adapt it to the needs of the Academy, and that said Committee report to the Board at its Annual meeting in December. The Chairman appointed as Committee, Blythe, Marshall, Coward, Bond and Chairman –

[Written on side of page.]

Cases of Cadets Danner Cass and Riley -

[Main page.]

The Board approved and sustained action of Executive Committee in declining to refund tuition requested in the cases of Cadets Danner and Cass. They also decline to reconsider action taken in case of Cadet J. Wilson Riley, who desired to be relieved of his bond to refund the Academy in four years the $600. due by him to the State for 2 years expenses of maintenance, and education at this Academy, he having received an appointment to West Point –

[Written on side of page.]

Graduates Fund for Police Station approval of Board –

[Main page.]

The Board of Visitors have observed with great interest the efforts of the Association of Graduates to raise a sufficient sum to fit up the Guard House for the uses of the Academy without calling on the State Legislature for an appropriation therefor. Realizing the great moral effect the success of this undertaking will have in the favorable consideration of the people throughout the State and in the Legislature for the Academy, the Board of Visitors desire hereby to express their approval and endorsement of the movement, and to add their earnest solicitation to the beneficiary graduates of the Academy to respond to the honorable call made upon them. Adopted.

[Page 15]

[Written on side of page.]

Report of Treasurer of Alumni Fund

[Main page.]

Yorkville, S. C., June 23, 1906.

The Honorable, The Board of Visitors,
South Carolina Military Academy,
Charleston, S. C.,

Gentlemen:

Some weeks since a movement, primarily inaugurated by Major Gadsden, was set on foot looking to the raising among the Alumni of the Citadel, with which to make such repairs upon the Guard House, recently purchased by the State for the Citadel, as would put same in the best possible condition for use by the Citadel. I was asked to act as Treasurer of the Board of Visitors to receive the funds subscribed, and hold same subject to the order of your honorable body. Having assumed the duties of the office, I beg to submit a report of my actings and doings up to this date.

Subscriptions
New Subscriptions to the fund, absolute, $1, 195.00
New Subscriptions to the fund conditional, 25.00
Subscriptions by way of transfer from Gymnasium subscriptions 185.00
Total, 1,405.00

Collections
On account of New subscriptions, 54.10
Subscriptions transferred, 145.00
funds from Treas. Assn of Graduates, net, 67.10
Total, $266.20

As treasurer of the funds that were raised among the Alumni for the purpose of installing a gymnasium on the Academy, I collected from subscriptions and from funds turned over to me the Treasurer of the Association of Graduates, the sum of $ 302.60. Of this amount I spent in postage and stationery the sum of $ 11. 50, transferred to the equipment fund, as above reported the sum of $ 212.10 which leaves a balance in my hands of $ 79.00 all of which I confidently expect to be able to transfer to the Equipment fund by consent of the subscribers.

Following is a list of those yet to be transferred: H. D. Still, Jr., $3.00
W. E. Mikell, 10.00
W. H. Sligh, 10.00
J. F. Lanneau, 10.00
J. T. Coleman, 10.00
J. W. Barnwell, 10.00
D. A. Bradham, 1.00
25.00
Total, $ 79.00

All of which is respectfully submitted.

W. W. Lewis,
Treasurer.

[Page 16]

Columbia S. C. July 31st 1906

A special meeting of the Board of Visitors was held this day in office of Governor Heyward at 12 o’Clock noon for the consideration of applications for Beneficiary scholarships, election of three Professors and other business –

Present Maj Lucas Vice Chairman, and Messrs Blythe Sheppard, Lewis, Frost, Martin and Herbert and Gov Heyward –

Reading of the minutes dispersed with, except for reference if found necessary –

[Written on side of page.]

Case of Cadet Lipscomb

[Main page.]

The appeal of Cadet Lipscomb was granted allowing to stand an examination in Mathematics, and if successful he would be allowed to enter the First Class. His request that he be examined by some other Professor than Maj Thomas was not granted

[Written on side of page.]

Chairman write Hon Secy War

[Main page.]

Vice-Chairman of Board was requested to write the Secretary of War and ascertain if the Academy has lost its grade as a member of the six schools recommended by the War Department for appointments of a Cadet as a Second Lieutenant in the Army –

[Written on side of page.]

Report of Committee on Report of Commandant Capt Simons, which report was adopted 

To amend the Regulations expulsion

[Main page.]

Committee appointed to consider report of Commandant Simons reported as follows –

To the Members of the Board of Visitors,
South Carolina Military Academy –

Gentlemen: -

Having been appointed a sub-committee to consider the report of Commandant Simons, and make such recommendations thereon as we consider proper, we beg to submit the following –

On page 2 of the report the recommendations of the Commandant appeases to your Committee; we would recommend that in addition to the authority already given the Superintendent in the regulations page 31, that the Superintendent be given power to dismiss or expel Cadets for breach

[Page 17]

of regulations which would warrant such punishment, subject however to appeal to the Board of Visitors, through the Superintendent of the Academy, notice of said appeal shall be made in writing to the Chairman of the Board, through the Superintendent within ten (10) days after discharge or expulsion –

[Written on side of page.]

To amend the Regulations leave of absence

[Main page.]

On page 3 of the report we would recommend that paragraph 83 be amended by striking out on line 2 after the word Academy, the words “unless at the personal solicitations of the near relatives, or by written request of such relatives”, and insert in lieu thereof the following “except on written request of his parent or guardian, which request shall give satisfactory reasons to the Superintendent, who shall in his discretion grant or refuse such permission”.

Your committee would recommend that recruits report for duty at the Academy three days in advance of the opening of the session, with such officers as the Superintendent may detail.

[Written on side of page.]

Leave of absence

[Main page.]

On page 5 of the report at the top of said page, we would recommend that the recommendation of the Commandant be adopted, that the Superintendent be authorized to grant leave to officers for seven days, and to the Cadets for one month, and that the Commandant be authorized to grant leave to the Cadets for less than twenty four hours –

[Written on side of page.]

Recomitted [sic] to Commandant

[Main page.]

In the middle of page 5 of the Commandants report, we find the following “there are now many things included in the Academic regulations which should be incorporated in the Cadet regulations, as they are purely matters of interior police and discipline, and that the Superintendent be authorized to amend or revoke such demands. As it is, with some of this matter in each act of regulations much annoyance is occasioned.” We have thoroughly considered this paragraph and as the Commandant has cited no specific instances, we would recommend

[Page 18]

that so much of this report as refers to this paragraph be referred to the Commandant, with the request that he specify the paragraphs of the Academic regulations which should be incorporated in the Cadet regulations, and report at the next meeting of the Board of Visitors.

On page 8 we would beg to report that up to the present time the War Department has not been able to furnish breech-loading cannon to the regular army, and the Adjutant General advises your committee that the Chief or Ordnance told him personally that he thought the exchange could be made during the approaching fall; and that the Adjutant General will at once make request for such exchange –

[Written on side of page.]

Referred to Supt Coward

[Main page.]

In regard to the question of quarters for Cadets at the opening of the next session, we would recommend that if the necessity arises the quarters occupied by the Quarter Master be used for barracks if necessary, and that this matter be turned over to the Superintendent with the authority to act.

[Written on side of page.]

Referred to Supt Coward

[Main page.]

We would also recommend that the Superintendent in making his returns for small arms for the Academy, take up the magazine rifles, as the springfield rifles, calibre [sic] 45 are being turned over to the Augusta Arsinal [sic], Augusta, Ga.

[Written on side of page.]

Referred to Capt Simons

[Main page.]

In conclusion your Committee begs to express to the Commandant of Cadets their very high regard for his admirable report which shows much thought and careful preparation.

Respectfully submitted
(signed) J J Lucas Chairman
Orlando Sheppard
John. D. Frost

[Page 19]

Chairman of Board was requested to write the Hon Secretary of War and assertion if the Academy has lost its grade as a member of the six schools recommended by the War Dept for appointments of a Cadet at Second Lieut in the army.

[Written on side of page.]

Examinations Beneficiaries

[Main page.]

The State Supt of Education after conference named August 31st as the date for the examination of Beneficiary applicants in the several Counties

[Written on side of page.]

Applications for Professorships

[Main page.]

Four applications received for the Chair of Chemistry
Six applications received for the Chair of Physics
One application received for the Chair of Languages

An election for above positions by ballot was held with the following result –

Maj P. B. Winn nominated and elected Prof Physics
Maj Charles Walker nominated and elected Prof Chemistry
Maj Lehre L. Dantzler nominated and elected Prof Languages

Board adjourned at 2 30 pm until 4 o’Clock –

Afternoon session – 4 o’Clock July 31/1906 –

Present Lucas, Herbert, Blythe, Frost and Sheppard –

Chairman authorized to pass on any applications of Beneficiaries now in transit or delayed for good reason.

[Written on side of page.]

Estimate to concrete the quadrangle

[Main page.]

Estimate was received from Mr Thos. H. Reynolds to lay a concrete pavement in the quadrangle as the Citadel four inches thick over the entire space, including the gutters all for the sum of $1029.60. The following resolution was offered an adopted – “Col Coward be authorized to spend the $500.00 now on hand to pave quadrangle in part payment of estimate of Mr Thos. H. Reynolds, and arrange with Mr. Reynolds to pay the balance when the legislature makes an appropriation, and in the event of this arrangement not being practicable, the above $500.00 be expended on repairs”.

Resolved that Commissary Sargent R. L. Crosswell be relieved from further duty at the Academy Sept 1st and the Superintendent give him 30 days notice – (adopted)

[Page 20]

[Written on side of page.]

Employment of bugler

[Main page.]

Resolved that Mr Jacob Rosenbaum be given his expenses as a Cadet at the Academy in consideration of his sounding all the calls required of the bugler, he to be subject to the Regulations of the Academy as a Cadet; in the event that Mr Rosenbaum is successful in the competitive examination for a scholarship that the Supt be authorized to employ one or more Cadets as buglers as he may deem proper, said Cadets to be paid not exceeding ten dollars each per month for the scholastic year – adopted and accepted by Rosenbaum

[Written on side of page.]

Female Asst for Dining room

[Main page.]

Resolved that the Superintendent be authorized to employ competent female help to take charge of Dining room and kitchen at a salary of $240.00 per annum, commencing September 15/1906

[Written on side of page.]

Salaries of Professors and other Officers

[Main page.]

Resolved that the salaries of the Professors of the Academy be fixed as follows –

Mathematics $1700 – English $1700 – Astronomy $1700 –
Physics $1200 – Chemistry $1200 – French & German $1200 –
Asst English $1100 – Quarter Master $1100 –

Resolved further: That the salaries of the Asst in English and of the Quartermaster take effect July 1st 1906, that the salaries of the Professors of Physics, Chemistry and French and German take effect October 1st 1906 –

For the 28 Beneficiary vacancies in the several counties, there were 112 applications received –

No further business the board adjourned @ 7 30 pm

J E Smith
Secretary

[Page 21]

Charleston S. C. December 11th, 1906.

Col C. S. Gadsden,
Chairman Board of Visitors.

Sir: I have the honor to submit the following report of the affairs of the Academy since the close of the last Academic year, June 30th. I remained in the City until July 21st setting to work the scheme for advertising the vacancies in the several counties interested for State beneficiary scholarships: the vacancies in the professorships in Physics, Chemistry, and Modern Languages: the general advertizement [sic] of the institution: the closing up of the financial affairs of the Quarter-Master’s department, and the transfer of that department to the new incumbent, Capt Raines: securing proposals for covering the interior parade ground and the bath room with concrete: and attended to such correspondence as is usually required at the beginning of the vacation. I attended the meeting of the Board in Columbia on the 31st of July, and then returned to Charleston for a day in order to sign the contract for paving the quadrangle as authorized by the Board. On the first of September I returned to the City to remain, and spent the month in advising with the Quarter Master as to the work of renovation and repair, and assisting in the grading of the examination papers of applicants for beneficiary scholarships. On the first of October all the prpfessors [sic] were present and the Cadets, old and new, began to arrive. It was soon ascertained that the arrangements for quartering the Cadets made last year would be sufficient for the present number, with slight temporary inconvenience.

Enrolment. As shown in the Official Register published in July the number of Cadets properly on the roll was-

[Page 26]

[Written on side of page.]

Condition of Building

[Main page.]

Condition of Building – Resolved that the Supt be authorized to have made a detailed estimate of the cost of making the necessary repairs to the Academic building in order to place it in proper condition and that a request based upon such estimate and approved by the Executive Committee be made to the General Assembly for an appropriation of such amount as may be necessary to make the repairs incorporated in the estimate, and that the Executive Committee be authorized to appear before the General Assembly to make request for the appropriation adopted

[Written on side of page.]

Christmas holiday

[Main page.]

In reply to inquiry of President Johnson of Winthrop College about Christmas holiday, the following resolution was adopted – Resolved, “That leave of absence be granted Cadets from reveille Monday Decr 24th 1906 to 12 o’clock midnight January 2d 1907”

[Written on side of page.]

Jamestown Exposition

[Main page.]

In reply to request of the Jamestown Exposition to have the Academy represented both by an exhibit and by the presence of the Corps of Cadets, the following resolution was adopted

Resolved – “That it is the desire of this Board that the Academy be represented at the Jamestown Exposition both by an exhibit and by the presence of the Corps of Cadets if it is practicable to do so, and that to this end, the Executive Committee be authorized to investigate the matter and take such action as may be practicable, and that the Committee communicate with reference to the exhibit with Col Frank Evans, Spartanburg, S.C., member of the Exposition Com –

[Written on side of page.]

Foot and Base ball teams

[Main page.]

The request of the Foot and Base ball teams to play ball away from Charleston was disapproved by both the Supt and Commandant, and disapproval was concurred in by the Board.

The financial statements showing receipts and

[Page 27]

[Written on side of page.]

Financial statement

[Main page.]

disbursements from January to December 1st 1906 was rec’d, and Chairman was authorized to have month of Dec’r audited, and complete the Calendar year –

Meeting took a recess from 2 to 4 pm – present
Chairman and Messrs Lucas, Marshall, Frost, Blythe, Sheppard, Herbert, Martin, absent Gov Heyward.

[Written on side of page.]

Bill of Hy Oliver

[Main page.]

Bill of Henry Oliver, contractor for work done at the Academy in 1904 & 05, and submitted by Superintendent, it was ordered that bill be referred to Supt and Quarter-master with power to act –

[Written on side of page.]

Bill of Knott Co.

All purchases from Supt Office

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Bills of L. E. Knotts Apparatus Co for laboratory equipment, purchased by Prof Winn, and aggregating $240.74 the board took following action “If necessary the Supt will issue order to cover purchase, but it need not occur again, Supt will notify all at interest that all orders for purchases against Academy must be obtained from his office, otherwise bills will not be paid”

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Cadet Gossett

Cadet Wessinger

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Case of Cadet Gossett – “In accordance with long established custom of this Board, the refund will not be granted” adopted –

Case of Cadet Wessinger, papers received by Board as information and placed on file –

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Redetail of Capt Simons

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Resolved – “That it is the unanimous desire of the Board of Visitors that Capt W. H. Simons, Capt 6th Infantry be redetailed as Commandant of Cadets of the Academy and that the Chairman of this Board be requested to take up this matter with the Military Sec’y and endeavour [sic] to retain Capt Simons as Commandant “

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Police Station

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To the Board of Visitors:

The Committee to whom was referred the question of the transfer of the Police Station by the City of Charleston and its adaptation to the use of the Academy beg to report: That no formal steps have yet been taken towards the actual transfer of the property, but your Committee are informed that

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Police Station progress report by Committee

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the City of Charleston has purchased a site for the new Police Station, that the buildings thereon are being removed, that plans and specifications for the new station have been prepared and that bids will soon be invited thereon; it is not probable, however, that the new station can be completed before the end of the year 1907, and no actual transfer of the property can be made until that time, and, therefore, that no work can be done towards adapting the building for the use of the Academy during the coming year. Your Committee have, however, held a meeting, reviewed the property, consulted with some of the members of the Faculty and submit a statement and plans showing in a general way the changes contemplated. No definite action has as yet been taken by the Committee nor can such action be taken until further information is secured.

E. M. Blythe for Committee

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Report of Commandant referred to Committee

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The following report of Commandant was referred to Committee consisting of Maj Lucas, Gadsden, Coward, and Capt Simons, to consider the many changes suggested in the Academic regulations, and report to the June meeting or earlier if found necessary”

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Dec. 8th 1906

Capt. W. H. Simons
Commandant of Cadets

Making suggestions and recommending changes in the Academic Regulations

Respectfully forwarded
Asbury Coward
Supt.

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Citadel, Charleston, S.C., December 8, 1906.

The Secretary,
Board of Visitors,
South Carolina Military Academy,
Citadel, Charleston, S. C.

(Through proper channels)

Sir: -

In compliance with your letter of August 31st last containing an extract from the report of the sub-committee appointed by the Board of Visitors to consider my report dated June 25, 1906, I have the honor to submit the following statement –

The particular paragraphs of Academic Regulations, which I think should be eliminated from the same and incorporated in the Cadet Regulations, are: - Sections 2 and 3 of paragraphs 83, paragraphs 110 and 111, 113 to 125 inclusive, 127 to 131 inclusive, 133 to 137 inclusive, 142 to 154 inclusive, 156, 159 to 161 inclusive, 163, 165 to 170 inclusive, 172 to 180 inclusive, 186 to 189 inclusive, 191, 197, 205 to 207 inclusive.

In looking over the Academic Regulations in order to specify the above mentioned paragraphs, I find that these regulations are faulty in many respects. This fact was mentioned by me in my report of June 14, 1905, but no action was taken by the Board on the subject.

Since my tour of duty at this institution will expire at the close of the present session, I would respectfully suggest, although it may appear importunate, that immediate action be taken on this matter. I have given considerable thought in regard to the matter

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of discipline and the best method of its enforcement since I have been on duty here. My experience has been that cadets will take advantage of every loop hole to escape the consequences of offenses committed by them, and in the present condition of the regulations there are many avenues for escape. In order to take advantage of the experience of the officers now on duty at the Academy, I would recommend that a board to consist of the Superintendent, the Commandant of Cadets, and the Adjutant of the Academy be appointed to revise the present regulations of the Academy and report to a Committee of the Board of Visitors to be appointed by the Board. All of these reports to be made so that the Board can act at its next meeting in June.

In a hasty examination of the regulations, the following points appear to me worthy of notice: -

Unless an applicant for appointment as a beneficiary cadet has made a satisfactory average in his competitive examination, I do not think that he should be admitted as a cadet. Authority should be obtained from the Legislature to transfer the appointment from any county where the highest average of the candidates presenting themselves is below a fixed percentage to the applicant from some other county whose average is higher. A change of this nature would require legislative action and I think that such action should be requested at once. Where a county having a vacancy fails to offer any candidate, the vacancy should be filled by the appointment of a candidate from some other county where high averages are made. Had such a law been in force during the past summer, I believe that it would have worked to considerable advantage to the Academy.

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All beneficiary cadets obtaining appointments as cadets in either of the National Academies should be relieved from their obligations to teach in the schools of the State. The same rule should obtain in regard to graduates obtaining appointments in the Army or Marine Corps. Chances of appointment in the services are held out as an inducement to cadets to enter the Academy, and when any cadet, pay or beneficiary, obtains an appointment as a cadet or officer the statements of the authorities are strengthened and the individual should be given the benefit of his part in this transaction.

All warrants of appointment should be issued by the Superintendent of the Academy so as to insure [sic] accuracy in the date of reporting. The warrants last October required recruits to report on three different dates, October 1st, 2d, and 3d. Warrants should also state the exact hour of reporting.

As stated in previous report, I think that all reference to hazing should be omitted from the matriculation promise.

All payments of moneys by cadets, parents, or guardians should be made to the Quartermaster, who is a bonded officer, and not to the Superintendent.

All references to the cadet overcoat now in the regulations are unnecessary since the regulations in regard to this garment have been changed.

I am of the opinion that the uniform for the officers of the Academy should be specifically described and no reference should be made to articles of the uniform being “as prescribed for officers of the U.S. Army.” An experience of fifteen years in the Army has shown me that changes in the uniform are very expensive and I do not think that the officers of the Academy should be required

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to bear this unnecessary expense. A definitely prescribed uniform, and strict compliance with the requirements would produce much better results.

A yearly return of instruments &c. in charge of heads of departments, and stated inspections of the same by some officer of the Academy would be productive of considerable saving in this matter.

Almost all the regulations in regard to the methods of marking and grading cadets are now obsolete and should be changed so as to accord with present methods.

The present method of investigating violations of orders or regulations is in my opinion very bad. I believe that a well devised system of courts-martial and courts of inquiry would be productive of far better results.

The present method of appointing cadet officers, prescribed in regulations, does not conform to the requirements of General Orders of the War Department on this subject. The War Department orders require that all appointments &c shall be promulgated by the professor of military science and tactics after having been approved by the President of the institution. The regulations require promulgation by the Superintendent on recommendation of the Commandant. This is a very small matter and of no real import but in order to conform to orders of the Department, I would advise that it be amended accordingly, before the next annual inspection

Army regulations require a monthly quarterly inspection of all buildings on the post by the post commander. I believe that a requirement of a monthly inspection of the entire academy by the Superintendent, Commandant of Cadets, and Quartermaster would be beneficial.

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Tattoo roll call has been omitted in the Army for the past sixteen years. I am of the opinion that it should be omitted here also.

In my last report, I called attention to the necessity for some action in regard to a settlement of the matter of small arms now in the hands of the cadets. From the action taken by the Board on this matter it is apparent that the subject is not fully understood by the Board. Under the orders now in force ordnance is issued directly by the Ordnance Department to institutions where officers of the Army are detailed. The institutions are required to give bond for this property and to cover it with insurance. Arms have been issued to this Academy in this manner and a bond to cover a certain amount of Cadet Springfield rifles is now on file in the War Department. The Springfield Cadet rifles issued by the National Government were, by direction of the Board of Visitors, turned in to the State and replaced by the regular issue Springfield rifles, these arms were in like manner turned in to the State and replaced by U.S. Magazine rifles which are now in the hands of the cadets. The Superintendent is still making returns to the War Department for the Springfield Cadet rifles originally issued and covered by the bond on file. The action of the Board in directing that the Superintendent take up on his returns the Magazine rifles now used by the cadets would, if complied with, probably entail an endless correspondence with no satisfactory results. The State is not recognized in this matter by the National Government at all, but the institution is dealt with direct. As it appears to me, the only way in which the matter can be satisfactorily arranged is by an act of Congress relieving the institution of its responsibil-

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ity for the original issue of arms as secured by the bond now on file, the issue direct of Magazine rifles to replace the Cadet rifles and the turning in to the State of the rifles now on hand. If a proper presentation of the circumstances of the case is made in boths houses of congress, I think that there will be no trouble in settling the matter. The next ordnance return of the Superintendent is due at the end of this month and if the instructions of the Board are complied with endless complications will result. The Superintendent is fully informed on this matter and can probably explain the situation verbally to the Board better than I can do so.

I hope that I will not be considered presumptuous in bringing these matters to the attention of the Board. Some of them have already been mentioned by me but no action has been taken. My experience here in my present position has shown me that it takes just about one session for an officer in my position to orient acquaint himself and, to use a slang expression, get on to the curves of the cadets. If the regulations are amended as above suggested, I believe that my successor will have a far easier time than I have had and will be able to advance the interests of the Academy in a marked degree.

Very respectfully,
W. H. Simons
Captain 6th Infantry,
Commandant of Cadets.