Minutes of the Board of Visitors of The Citadel, 1845
Title
Minutes of the Board of Visitors of The Citadel, 1845
Subject
Description
Official minutes of the governing body of The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina.
Source
RC2
Publisher
The Citadel Archives & Museum
Date
Rights
Materials in The Citadel Archives & Museum Digital Collections are intended for educational and research use. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any claimants of copyright. For more information contact The Citadel Archives & Museum, The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, 29409.
Relation
The Citadel Board of Visitor Meeting Minutes
Format
application/pdf
Language
English
Type
Text
Identifier
https://citadeldigitalarchives.omeka.net/items/show/360
Coverage
Charleston (S.C.)
Date Valid
Extent
22 pages ; 32 cm
Text
[Page 1]
Citadel Academy, Charleston
17th Nov. 1845
The Board met this day at the Citadel Academy at 9 O’ clock AM,
Present
Jas. Jones
D. F. Jamison
J. W. Cantey
when the annual examination of the Cadets commenced & was continued until Wednesday evening the 19th inst.
The Board adjourned to meet at Columbia on the 25th inst.
Arsenal Academy Col.
25th Nov 1845
The Board convened this day at 9 O’clock at this institution
Present
James Jones
D. F. Jamison
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
J. H. Means
James W. Cantey
when the annual examination of the Cadets commenced & closed on Wednesday the 26th inst.
The Board then adjourned to meet on the 28th inst. at the Executive Office.
[Page 2]
At the Annual Meeting of the Board of Visitors held at the Executive Office Columbia, the 28th day of Nov. 1845
Present
James Jones, Chairman
D. F. Jamison
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
John H. Means
J. W. Cantey
The annual reports of the Superintendents of the Citadel Academy, & the Arsenal Academy Columbia were taken up & read: & the following resolutions passed, viz
Resolved,
That the suspension of Cadet L. J. Brown (Arsenal Academy) be confirmed.
Resolved,
That with a view of investigating certain charges and rumours, which have been made injurious to the Arsenal Academy, concerning the conduct of the Superintendent, subsequent to the suspension of the Cadets, and before they left the Arsenal, the Superintendent be requested to report fully upon the subject.
Resolved,
That a check be given by the Chairman of the Board, to Professor Capers, on the pay fund for $24.22, the amount of his account against the Citadel Academy.
[Page 3]
Resolved,
That a check be given by the Chairman of the Board to Professor Hume for $382.50, being the amount of his own & C. Pankins claim against the Citadel Academy.
Resolved,
That the Arsenal Keeper at Charleston, be required to give up his quarters in the Citadel for the use of the school.
The Board then adjourned to meet tomorrow (29th inst) at the Executive Office at 9 O’clock AM
Executive Office Nov. 29th 1845
The Board met at 9 O’clock AM.
Present
James Jones, Chairman
D. F. Jamison
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
John H. Means
J. W. Cantey
Resolved,
That the suspension of Cadets McDonald & Landreth (Citadel Academy) be confirmed.
Resolved, That Cadet Russell (Citadel Academy) be dismissed.
Resolved, That the list of Cadets (Citadel Academy) whose names have been selected for publication, as having most distinguished themselves at the annual examination at the Citadel Academy, be printed.
[Page 4]
Resolved,
That the letter, and account of Col Yeadon amounting to $131, be laid on the table.
Resolved,
That leave of absence be granted to Mr. J. L. Gregorie, Bursar of the Citadel Academy, for two weeks, in December next.
Resolved,
That Cadet Collins & Graham (Arsenal Academy) be discharged.
Resolved,
That the suspension of Cadet Mellett (AA) is approved of, by the Board: but that in consequence of his previous good standing, he be re-admitted as a Cadet.
Resolved,
That the offense committed by Cadet Strawbridge (AA) in delaying his return to the Arsenal Academy, beyond the time expressed in his leave of absence, is one of the gravest, known to the regulations, and that Cadet Strawbridge be expelled from the institution.
The Board then adjourned to meet on Monday next, 1st Dec 1845, at this place at 9 O’clock AM
[Page 5]
Executive Office, Columbia
Monday 1st Dec 1845
The Board met by adjournment at 9 O’clock AM
Present
James Jones, Chairman
D. F. Jamison
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
John H. Means
J. W. Cantey
Resolved,
That the following report on the case of Cadet L. J. Brown: & of the sixteen (suspended) Cadets be adopted: & that the same be printed: viz
“In the matter of the suspension of Cadet L. J. Brown on 21st September, and of the sixteen other Cadets on the 6th Oct. the following are the material facts verified upon oath before the Board of Visitors.
On the evening of the 21st September, after dark, some disorder occurred among the Cadets in the campus, near the Arsenal.
With the view to suppress this disorder, the Superintendent went out, and ordered them to their quarters. While returning to their quarters, & very soon after this order was given, some of the Cadets hissed, or whistled.
Deeming this conduct disrespectful, the Superintendent went immediately to the barracks, and in (rather) an irritated tone and manner, demanded the names of the authors of this act of insubordination. Cadet L. J. Brown (among others), then came to the door of his room, and spoke to the Superintendent, in a manner which he deemed disorderly and mutinous. He was ordered to be silent, and declared that he would not be silent.
[Page 6]
He was then told by the Superintendent that he must leave the institution next morning, and accordingly on the morning of the 22nd Sep. the following order was published.
Arsenal Academy Sep. 22 1845
Order No 52
Cadet L. J. Brown is hereby suspended from all rank in the Arsenal Academy, for positive disobedience of orders, and insubordinate conduct on the evening of the 21st Sep.
He will therefore cease to be a member of the institution, from the publication of this order (unless restored by the Board of Visitors) and will repair to his home.
(Signed) A Herbert
Superintendent
On the morning this order was published, Cadet Brown, having been furnished by order of the Superintendent, with money to repay his traveling expenses, left for his home.
Before Cadet Brown left the Arsenal, a paper was drawn up & signed by sixteen other of the Cadets of the institution, addressed to Major J. G. Brown, the father of Cadet Brown, in which they state (among other things) that Cadet Brown had done no act inconsistent with the character of a gentleman and a soldier.
Upon receipt of this document by Major Brown, he transmitted it to Genl. Jas. Jones, the Chairman of the Board of Visitors, who immediately transmitted it, without any comments, to Capt. Herbert, the Superintendent.
[Page 7]
The execution & transmission of this document by the sixteen Cadets, in the manner and form stated, was deemed by Capt Herbert, a violation of the 8th Article of War, and the 45th Article of the Rules & Regulations of the Arsenal & Citadel Academies and on the 6th Oct an order was issued and published, suspending the sixteen Cadets, who signed the paper from all rank in the institution & directing them to repair to their homes.
Upon these facts this Board is to decide, whether or not, Capt Herbert exceeded the limits of his power and duty, in the suspension of Cadet Brown, on the 22nd Sep.: and the suspension of the sixteen Cadets on the 6th October, in the manner, & for the reasons above stated.
It should be borne in mind that the Arsenal Academy is an institution in its government purely military, and that the Cadets are as soldiers upon duty, in garrison or camp: and as such rules and regulations have been named for the police and government of the post, according to long established military usage.
The profession of arms, involving the conduct and government of armies in the field, is the most chaste, and the most inflexible in its discipline of all. The Military Code, is in fact the Law of Honor, and of Duty, so closely and intimately blended, that no violation of its principles, how small so ever, can be permitted either with safety or honor: and there is no principle indicated by this Code, that is more imperious, or more necessary, than obedience – prompt, immediate, and respectful obedience, to every command emanating from the proper authority.
[Page 8]
This is not only the first duty of the soldier, but is perhaps the most important element of martial law, and without which the whole object and design of military institutions would be defeated.
When the conduct of Cadet Brown is viewed in connection with this rule, there can be no difficulty in arriving at the proper conclusion upon the merits of this case. His plea of defense and justification in this, that the manner and tone of Capt Herbert was too severe – even that his language was insulting cannot be permitted to avail him to the prejudice of order and subordination – for his appeal should have been made, if good cause existed, to other authorities than himself.
The legitimate and proper authority of the Superintendent, had been treated with contempt by some of the Cadets, but who they were, without the enquiry being made, Captain Herbert could not know. They, and not Captain Herbert, made the issue, of anarchy and mutiny on the one hand, or of law and order on the other: and the Superintendent did well, not to postpone for one moment the trial of this issue.
It may be that his manner and tone were less cool, than could have been desired, and that there was in fact some degree of harshness used: but that he could have been more cool under the circumstances, is hardly to be expected of human nature, unless as exceptions to a general rule. The positive disobedience of orders by Cadet Brown, left the Superintendent no alternative; and his suspension was not only proper, but a most necessary and indispensable act of duty, on the part of the Superintendent.
[Page 9]
The suspension of the sixteen Cadets on the 6th of October, the Board is equally [illegible] satisfied was necessary and proper. The combination into which they entered in writing, signing, and transmitting to Major Brown, the document referred to, was a manifest violation of the 8th Article of War, and of the 45th Rule of the Regulations of the institution of which they were members.
Believing however that they were not aware of the grave nature of the offense they committed, and that they were prompted, less by the spirit of insubordination, than by a commendable sympathy for their comrade, the Board could see no reason, why they should not be restored to their rank in the Academy; & with the hope that the past may throw some additional light upon the path of duty before them, it is so ordered.”
(Signed) James Jones, Chairman B.V.
Resolved,
That Cadets J. Cantey & Luther Williams be examined: & if not found deficient, that they receive diplomas.
Resolved,
That the Superintendent of the Citadel Academy at Charleston, furnish to each member of the Board of Visitors, one copy of every book used as a text book in the institution.
[Page 10]
Resolved,
That
1 Edward J. Means
2 Robert H. Means
3 Henry Cantey
4 L. J. Murray
5 [Illegible] W. Tyler
6 F. M. Dwight
7 Rufus Cleckley
8 Ed. Mackay
9 Wilson Prothro
be admitted into the Citadel Academy in Charleston, as probationary pay pupils: & that they be directed to report themselves to the Superintendent thereof on 1st January next.
Resolved,
That the Rule prescribing the minimum age, at which pupils shall be admitted into the State Military Academies, shall be relaxed in favor of Edward J. Means and Henry Cantey.
Resolved,
That the applications of W. L. Myers of Georgia, & [illegible] Montgomery of Georgia, be rejected.
[Page 11]
Resolved,
That the following persons be admitted as beneficiary probationary pupils into the Citadel Academy: & that they be directed to report themselves to the Superintendent thereof on 1st January next viz
1 Daniel Owens – Charleston
2 David Owens – Charleston
3 Isaac Skippler – Charleston
4 J. D. Maynawie – Charleston
5 W. H. Dawson – Charleston
6 Alston Brightman – Charleston
7 P. F. Stevens – Charleston
8 Josiah Campbell – Kershaw
9 Chas. Kennerley – Edgefield
10 Jas. Bonham – Edgefield
11 R. E. Chaplin – Beaufort
12 Ja. Speight – Beaufort
13 Jn. T. Zealey – Beaufort
14 B. Palmer – Beaufort
15 Chas. Russell – Beaufort
16 A. G. Hayes – Lexington
17 Jas. F. Black – Laurens
18 H. L. Thurston – Greenville
19 Christ Elliott – Orange parish
20 James A. Walker – Abbeville
21 James Muse – Darlington
22 Jn. B. Whitlock – Pendleton
23 E. S. J. Hayes – Richland
24 J. B. White – Georgetown
25 J. S. Collins – Barnwell
26 G. B. Lartigue – Barnwell
27 U. A. Rice – Barnwell
28 Thos. J. Counts – Barnwell
29 Geo. H. Bunker – Sumter
30 H. B. DeLorne – Sumter
31 Thos. Richardson – Sumter
32 J. L. McCollum – Marion
33 A. J. Evans – Marion
34 H. W. Stewart – Colleton
[Page 12]
Resolved, That the rule prescribing the minimum age, at which pupils shall be admitted into the State Military Academies, shall be relaxed in favor of Christopher Elliott of Orangeburg.
Resolved,
That,
1 Th. A. Williams
2 J. H. Howell
3 J. T. Howell
4 E. R. Doyle
5 J. M. Counts
6 D. McKayes
7 Ja. McCann
8 G. C. Billings
9 J. P. Hammett
10 Thos. C. Lee
11 W. J. Mellett
Beneficiaries
And
1 Thos. G. Lamar
2 Angus Brown
3 [Illegible]
4 Remur Young
Pay Cadets
at the Arsenal Academy, at Columbia, report themselves at the Citadel Academy at Charleston on the first of January next: and shall enter such class as the Superintendent shall find they are qualified for, upon examination.
Resolved,
That the Chairman of the Board of Visitors, be authorized to admit into the Citadel Academy at Charleston, a Beneficiary pupil from Lexington: and one from Chesterfield: whose names shall be reported to the Superintendent of that Academy before the 1st January next.
The Board adjourned to meet at this place tomorrow morning at 9 O’ clock.
[Page 13]
Executive Office Col.
Dec 2 1845
The Board met at 9 O’ clock by adjournment.
Present
James Jones, Chairman
D. F. Jameson
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
J. H. Means
J. W. Cantey
Resolved,
That the expenses paid by the Chairman of the Board of Visitors, on account of postage, shall be refunded to him: and such as he may hereafter incur - & shall be paid out of the fund appropriated to the support of the military school.
Resolved,
That Professor Capers has leave of absence from the Citadel Academy, until the 28th December instant.
Resolved,
That the following Report be adopted, and handed in to His Excellency the Governor viz.
“To His Excellency Governor Aiken
The Board of Visitors of the State Military Academies, Respectfully report,
That the Citadel Academy, in the City of Charleston, is in a flourishing condition, increasing in efficiency and usefulness, and extending its popularity, as its merits become known.
[Page 14]
At the commencement of the present academic year, there were at that institution, fifty six pupils. During the year, the resignations, discharges, dismissals, & suspensions, have been twenty seven: leaving at the institution twenty nine, who were presented to the Board for examination on the third Monday of November. That examination has demonstrated to the Board the practicability of their plan of education, combining a course of thorough instruction in the physical sciences, modern language, history & belles letters, with a practical military education; and at the same time the efficient discharge of the arduous and responsible duties of an arsenal guard.
In the various subjects, upon which the classes were presented for an examination, (conducted with the most rigid scrutiny) the Cadets have exhibited a proficiency, in the opinion of the Board, seldom equaled, and rarely, if ever excelled, in any institution whatever. The officers have discharged their laborious duties with more than ordinary zeal and ability; and the character & position maintained by the institution under their charge, is at once honorable to them, and creditable to the State.
The Arsenal Academy in Columbia, has not succeeded in accomplishing the wishes of the Board of Visitors, to the extent desired. The course of this failure is mainly, if not wholly, referable to the want of proper physical means, to enforce the necessary rigid discipline and accountability of the Cadets. If the maintenance of this institution, either as a school, or as a depot of arms, was demanded by necessity, or the convenience of the county, the Board would
[Page 15]
ask your Excellency to urge upon the Legislature the necessity of granting an appropriation sufficient to erect a strong wall enclosing the post, and to pay additional instructors. But believing that the increased mean and diminished expense of transportation has satisfied all the reasons for the establishment of the post, as an arsenal; and that the Citadel in Charleston possesses advantages for a school, which cannot be realized here, we respectfully recommend that the two institutions, both as arsenals and schools, be consolidated at the Citadel.
In point of health, the three years experience has proved the Citadel superior in salubrity to the Arsenal at Columbia. Cadets from all parts of the state have been assembled there from the upper, as well as the lower districts, and all have equally enjoyed almost entire exemption from disease, and no case has occurred fairly attributed to a difference of climate. Indeed, we feel authorized to say, that the Cadets from the upper districts have enjoyed uninterrupted good health.
The Citadel is in a large and populous city: and in consequence, its officers and cadets under the salutary controlling influence of public opinion, unfettered by the number of young men placed in the institution, or the partiality of their immediate connections and friends. There, the institution will stand, or fall upon its merits alone.
As a general depot of arms for the state, the Citadel possesses the advantages of a position at a point, where all the rail roads and water transportation from all parts of the
[Page 16]
State, necessarily concentrate; and from which any section can be supplied with arms and military stores, at the least cost, and in the shortest time.
In addition to the advantages to be enjoyed by the citizens of the state, in the increased numbers which a combination of the funds now separately appropriated for the Citadel and Arsenal will enable & educate, the Board regards as not unimportant, the strength of the guard, and the espirit de corps and emulation excited by such increases.
The Board of Visitors, therefore, most respectfully ask your Excellency to submit to the Legislature, the propriety of consolidating the two institutions at the Citadel in Charleston.”
Respectfully submitted
(Signed) James Jones
Chairman of Board of Visitors
Columbia, December 1845
Resolved,
That the Board adjourned to meet at the place at 9 O’ clock AM, the day after the adjournment of the Legislature.
[Page 17]
Executive Office, Columbia
16th December 1845
The Board met by adjournment at 9 O’ clock AM
Present
James Jones, Chairman
D. F. Jamison
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
J. H. Means
J. W. Cantey
Resolved,
That the following beneficiary probationary pupils be directed to report themselves to the Superintendent of the Arsenal Academy on 1st January next, instead of the Citadel Academy as heretofore resolved: & that they be immediately notified hereof. Viz
1 Josiah Campbell – Kershaw
2 Chas. Kennerley – Edgefield
3 Ja. Bonham – Edgefield
4 A. G. Hayes – Lexington
5 Ja. F. Black – Laurens
6 Henry Thurston – Greenville
7 Ja. A. Walker – Abbeville
8 Ja. Muse – Darlington
9 Jn. B. Whittrell – Pendleton
10 E. S. J. Hayes – Richland
11 J. S. Collins – Barnwell
12 G. Lartigue – Barnwell
13 U. Rice – Barnwell
14 Tho. J. Counts – Barnwell
15 Geo. H. Bunker – Sumter
16 H. B. DeLorne – Sumter
17 Thos. Richardson – Sumter
18 J. L. McCollum – Marion
19 A. J. Evans – Marion
20 Ja. M. McCann- Fairfield
21 J. H. Howell – Kershaw
[Page 18]
Resolved,
That Baylis J. Maxwell, and John [illegible] be admitted into the Arsenal Academy as probationary pay pupils: and that
William Medlin – Marlboro
Christian J. Staley – Lexington
be admitted into the Arsenal Academy as probationary beneficiary pupils: and that they all report themselves to the Superintendent thereof on 1st January next.
Resolved,
That A. W. Cords and Jasper F. Butter be admitted into the Citadel Academy in Charleston as probationary pay Cadets: and that [space] Vaught of [space] be admitted into the Citadel Academy, as a probationary beneficiary pupil; and they all be directed to report themselves to the Superintendent thereof on 1st January next.
Resolved,
That Cadets T. S. Miller, J. J. Matthews & A. J. Jamison, be transferred to the Citadel Academy in Charleston: and that they report themselves to the Superintendent thereof on 1st January next: & shall enter such class as the Superintendent shall find they are qualified for, upon examination.
Resolved,
That the Beneficiary Cadets who are discharged or dismissed at either of the Academies, be allowed their expenses home.
[Page 19]
Resolved,
That the Bursar of the Citadel Academy pay to Doct. J. H. Boatwright of Columbia, the sum of fifty dollars (50$): his charge for medical attendance upon Professor Capers.
Resolved,
That the communication of Major J. G. Brown, relative to his son Cadet L. J. Brown, be laid on the table.
Resolved,
That the Bursar of the Citadel Academy be charged with the safe keeping: & preservation of the arms, ammunition, & other public stores & property confided to his case by the Superintendent.
Resolved,
That the officers of the Military Academies, be allowed fuel for their public offices, & recitation rooms; but not for their private rooms.
Resolved,
That leave of absence be granted to the Superintendent of the Citadel Academy, for 10 days, at any time he may deem it proper to leave the Citadel Academy.
[Page 20]
The Chairman of the Board, [space] submitted the resignation of Capt Herbert, Superintendent of the Military Academy in Columbia, of which the following is a copy,
“Arsenal
Dec. 16 1845
D’ Sir,
As my relinquishment of the post of Superintendent & Professor of the Arsenal Academy seems to be desired, I have no wish to embarrass the proceedings of your Board, by making it necessary for them to enforce my removal.
Which I therefore am entirely unconscious of having done anything to disqualify me for the post, I surrender to you my resignation.
I remain Sir,
Very respectfully
Yr ob serv
(signed) A. Herbert
Gen. J. Jones
Ch. of B of Visitors”
Whereupon, It was Resolved,
That the resignation of Capt A. Herbert, Superintendent of the Arsenal Academy be accepted, to take place on 1st January next.
Resolved,
That it is not necessary to fill the vacancy in the Arsenal Academy occasioned by the resignation of Capt Herbert.
[Page 21]
Resolved,
That Mr. Matthews be placed in the sole charge of the Arsenal Academy: & that his salary be increased to the sum of fourteen hundred dollars per annum, with the rank of Captain.
Resolved,
That it is expedient to elect another Professor for the Citadel Academy in Charleston for the ensuing year.
Resolved,
That Major John A. Leland be tendered the office of the additional Professor alluded to in the above resolution: & that he be paid for his services the sum of twelve hundred dollars.
Resolved,
That Major John A. Leland having accepted said office of additional Professor, be elected as such, with the salary of twelve hundred dollars to commence 1st January next.
[Page 22]
Resolved,
That the following titles be given to the officers of the Citadel Academy respectively; viz:
(Major) R. W. Colcock. Superintendent. Prof. Civ & Mil Engineering, etc.
(Capt.) F. W. Capers. Prof. Nat. Phil. Astron, etc. (Lieut) J. A. Leland Prof. Mathematics, etc.
Wm. Hume MD Prof. Chemistry. Geol., etc.
and that they take rank respectively in the order above named.
Resolved,
That the Department of Tactics be assigned to the Superintendent, and Professor of Natural Phil. and of Mathematics
That the Department of Belles Lettres be assigned to the Prof. of Nat. Phil., etc.
That the Department of History be assigned to the Prof. of Mathematics, etc.
That the Depart. Of French be assigned to the Prof. of Chemistry, etc.
Resolved,
That Professor Hume be relieved from all military duty.
The Board then adjourned.
Citadel Academy, Charleston
17th Nov. 1845
The Board met this day at the Citadel Academy at 9 O’ clock AM,
Present
Jas. Jones
D. F. Jamison
J. W. Cantey
when the annual examination of the Cadets commenced & was continued until Wednesday evening the 19th inst.
The Board adjourned to meet at Columbia on the 25th inst.
Arsenal Academy Col.
25th Nov 1845
The Board convened this day at 9 O’clock at this institution
Present
James Jones
D. F. Jamison
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
J. H. Means
James W. Cantey
when the annual examination of the Cadets commenced & closed on Wednesday the 26th inst.
The Board then adjourned to meet on the 28th inst. at the Executive Office.
[Page 2]
At the Annual Meeting of the Board of Visitors held at the Executive Office Columbia, the 28th day of Nov. 1845
Present
James Jones, Chairman
D. F. Jamison
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
John H. Means
J. W. Cantey
The annual reports of the Superintendents of the Citadel Academy, & the Arsenal Academy Columbia were taken up & read: & the following resolutions passed, viz
Resolved,
That the suspension of Cadet L. J. Brown (Arsenal Academy) be confirmed.
Resolved,
That with a view of investigating certain charges and rumours, which have been made injurious to the Arsenal Academy, concerning the conduct of the Superintendent, subsequent to the suspension of the Cadets, and before they left the Arsenal, the Superintendent be requested to report fully upon the subject.
Resolved,
That a check be given by the Chairman of the Board, to Professor Capers, on the pay fund for $24.22, the amount of his account against the Citadel Academy.
[Page 3]
Resolved,
That a check be given by the Chairman of the Board to Professor Hume for $382.50, being the amount of his own & C. Pankins claim against the Citadel Academy.
Resolved,
That the Arsenal Keeper at Charleston, be required to give up his quarters in the Citadel for the use of the school.
The Board then adjourned to meet tomorrow (29th inst) at the Executive Office at 9 O’clock AM
Executive Office Nov. 29th 1845
The Board met at 9 O’clock AM.
Present
James Jones, Chairman
D. F. Jamison
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
John H. Means
J. W. Cantey
Resolved,
That the suspension of Cadets McDonald & Landreth (Citadel Academy) be confirmed.
Resolved, That Cadet Russell (Citadel Academy) be dismissed.
Resolved, That the list of Cadets (Citadel Academy) whose names have been selected for publication, as having most distinguished themselves at the annual examination at the Citadel Academy, be printed.
[Page 4]
Resolved,
That the letter, and account of Col Yeadon amounting to $131, be laid on the table.
Resolved,
That leave of absence be granted to Mr. J. L. Gregorie, Bursar of the Citadel Academy, for two weeks, in December next.
Resolved,
That Cadet Collins & Graham (Arsenal Academy) be discharged.
Resolved,
That the suspension of Cadet Mellett (AA) is approved of, by the Board: but that in consequence of his previous good standing, he be re-admitted as a Cadet.
Resolved,
That the offense committed by Cadet Strawbridge (AA) in delaying his return to the Arsenal Academy, beyond the time expressed in his leave of absence, is one of the gravest, known to the regulations, and that Cadet Strawbridge be expelled from the institution.
The Board then adjourned to meet on Monday next, 1st Dec 1845, at this place at 9 O’clock AM
[Page 5]
Executive Office, Columbia
Monday 1st Dec 1845
The Board met by adjournment at 9 O’clock AM
Present
James Jones, Chairman
D. F. Jamison
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
John H. Means
J. W. Cantey
Resolved,
That the following report on the case of Cadet L. J. Brown: & of the sixteen (suspended) Cadets be adopted: & that the same be printed: viz
“In the matter of the suspension of Cadet L. J. Brown on 21st September, and of the sixteen other Cadets on the 6th Oct. the following are the material facts verified upon oath before the Board of Visitors.
On the evening of the 21st September, after dark, some disorder occurred among the Cadets in the campus, near the Arsenal.
With the view to suppress this disorder, the Superintendent went out, and ordered them to their quarters. While returning to their quarters, & very soon after this order was given, some of the Cadets hissed, or whistled.
Deeming this conduct disrespectful, the Superintendent went immediately to the barracks, and in (rather) an irritated tone and manner, demanded the names of the authors of this act of insubordination. Cadet L. J. Brown (among others), then came to the door of his room, and spoke to the Superintendent, in a manner which he deemed disorderly and mutinous. He was ordered to be silent, and declared that he would not be silent.
[Page 6]
He was then told by the Superintendent that he must leave the institution next morning, and accordingly on the morning of the 22nd Sep. the following order was published.
Arsenal Academy Sep. 22 1845
Order No 52
Cadet L. J. Brown is hereby suspended from all rank in the Arsenal Academy, for positive disobedience of orders, and insubordinate conduct on the evening of the 21st Sep.
He will therefore cease to be a member of the institution, from the publication of this order (unless restored by the Board of Visitors) and will repair to his home.
(Signed) A Herbert
Superintendent
On the morning this order was published, Cadet Brown, having been furnished by order of the Superintendent, with money to repay his traveling expenses, left for his home.
Before Cadet Brown left the Arsenal, a paper was drawn up & signed by sixteen other of the Cadets of the institution, addressed to Major J. G. Brown, the father of Cadet Brown, in which they state (among other things) that Cadet Brown had done no act inconsistent with the character of a gentleman and a soldier.
Upon receipt of this document by Major Brown, he transmitted it to Genl. Jas. Jones, the Chairman of the Board of Visitors, who immediately transmitted it, without any comments, to Capt. Herbert, the Superintendent.
[Page 7]
The execution & transmission of this document by the sixteen Cadets, in the manner and form stated, was deemed by Capt Herbert, a violation of the 8th Article of War, and the 45th Article of the Rules & Regulations of the Arsenal & Citadel Academies and on the 6th Oct an order was issued and published, suspending the sixteen Cadets, who signed the paper from all rank in the institution & directing them to repair to their homes.
Upon these facts this Board is to decide, whether or not, Capt Herbert exceeded the limits of his power and duty, in the suspension of Cadet Brown, on the 22nd Sep.: and the suspension of the sixteen Cadets on the 6th October, in the manner, & for the reasons above stated.
It should be borne in mind that the Arsenal Academy is an institution in its government purely military, and that the Cadets are as soldiers upon duty, in garrison or camp: and as such rules and regulations have been named for the police and government of the post, according to long established military usage.
The profession of arms, involving the conduct and government of armies in the field, is the most chaste, and the most inflexible in its discipline of all. The Military Code, is in fact the Law of Honor, and of Duty, so closely and intimately blended, that no violation of its principles, how small so ever, can be permitted either with safety or honor: and there is no principle indicated by this Code, that is more imperious, or more necessary, than obedience – prompt, immediate, and respectful obedience, to every command emanating from the proper authority.
[Page 8]
This is not only the first duty of the soldier, but is perhaps the most important element of martial law, and without which the whole object and design of military institutions would be defeated.
When the conduct of Cadet Brown is viewed in connection with this rule, there can be no difficulty in arriving at the proper conclusion upon the merits of this case. His plea of defense and justification in this, that the manner and tone of Capt Herbert was too severe – even that his language was insulting cannot be permitted to avail him to the prejudice of order and subordination – for his appeal should have been made, if good cause existed, to other authorities than himself.
The legitimate and proper authority of the Superintendent, had been treated with contempt by some of the Cadets, but who they were, without the enquiry being made, Captain Herbert could not know. They, and not Captain Herbert, made the issue, of anarchy and mutiny on the one hand, or of law and order on the other: and the Superintendent did well, not to postpone for one moment the trial of this issue.
It may be that his manner and tone were less cool, than could have been desired, and that there was in fact some degree of harshness used: but that he could have been more cool under the circumstances, is hardly to be expected of human nature, unless as exceptions to a general rule. The positive disobedience of orders by Cadet Brown, left the Superintendent no alternative; and his suspension was not only proper, but a most necessary and indispensable act of duty, on the part of the Superintendent.
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The suspension of the sixteen Cadets on the 6th of October, the Board is equally [illegible] satisfied was necessary and proper. The combination into which they entered in writing, signing, and transmitting to Major Brown, the document referred to, was a manifest violation of the 8th Article of War, and of the 45th Rule of the Regulations of the institution of which they were members.
Believing however that they were not aware of the grave nature of the offense they committed, and that they were prompted, less by the spirit of insubordination, than by a commendable sympathy for their comrade, the Board could see no reason, why they should not be restored to their rank in the Academy; & with the hope that the past may throw some additional light upon the path of duty before them, it is so ordered.”
(Signed) James Jones, Chairman B.V.
Resolved,
That Cadets J. Cantey & Luther Williams be examined: & if not found deficient, that they receive diplomas.
Resolved,
That the Superintendent of the Citadel Academy at Charleston, furnish to each member of the Board of Visitors, one copy of every book used as a text book in the institution.
[Page 10]
Resolved,
That
1 Edward J. Means
2 Robert H. Means
3 Henry Cantey
4 L. J. Murray
5 [Illegible] W. Tyler
6 F. M. Dwight
7 Rufus Cleckley
8 Ed. Mackay
9 Wilson Prothro
be admitted into the Citadel Academy in Charleston, as probationary pay pupils: & that they be directed to report themselves to the Superintendent thereof on 1st January next.
Resolved,
That the Rule prescribing the minimum age, at which pupils shall be admitted into the State Military Academies, shall be relaxed in favor of Edward J. Means and Henry Cantey.
Resolved,
That the applications of W. L. Myers of Georgia, & [illegible] Montgomery of Georgia, be rejected.
[Page 11]
Resolved,
That the following persons be admitted as beneficiary probationary pupils into the Citadel Academy: & that they be directed to report themselves to the Superintendent thereof on 1st January next viz
1 Daniel Owens – Charleston
2 David Owens – Charleston
3 Isaac Skippler – Charleston
4 J. D. Maynawie – Charleston
5 W. H. Dawson – Charleston
6 Alston Brightman – Charleston
7 P. F. Stevens – Charleston
8 Josiah Campbell – Kershaw
9 Chas. Kennerley – Edgefield
10 Jas. Bonham – Edgefield
11 R. E. Chaplin – Beaufort
12 Ja. Speight – Beaufort
13 Jn. T. Zealey – Beaufort
14 B. Palmer – Beaufort
15 Chas. Russell – Beaufort
16 A. G. Hayes – Lexington
17 Jas. F. Black – Laurens
18 H. L. Thurston – Greenville
19 Christ Elliott – Orange parish
20 James A. Walker – Abbeville
21 James Muse – Darlington
22 Jn. B. Whitlock – Pendleton
23 E. S. J. Hayes – Richland
24 J. B. White – Georgetown
25 J. S. Collins – Barnwell
26 G. B. Lartigue – Barnwell
27 U. A. Rice – Barnwell
28 Thos. J. Counts – Barnwell
29 Geo. H. Bunker – Sumter
30 H. B. DeLorne – Sumter
31 Thos. Richardson – Sumter
32 J. L. McCollum – Marion
33 A. J. Evans – Marion
34 H. W. Stewart – Colleton
[Page 12]
Resolved, That the rule prescribing the minimum age, at which pupils shall be admitted into the State Military Academies, shall be relaxed in favor of Christopher Elliott of Orangeburg.
Resolved,
That,
1 Th. A. Williams
2 J. H. Howell
3 J. T. Howell
4 E. R. Doyle
5 J. M. Counts
6 D. McKayes
7 Ja. McCann
8 G. C. Billings
9 J. P. Hammett
10 Thos. C. Lee
11 W. J. Mellett
Beneficiaries
And
1 Thos. G. Lamar
2 Angus Brown
3 [Illegible]
4 Remur Young
Pay Cadets
at the Arsenal Academy, at Columbia, report themselves at the Citadel Academy at Charleston on the first of January next: and shall enter such class as the Superintendent shall find they are qualified for, upon examination.
Resolved,
That the Chairman of the Board of Visitors, be authorized to admit into the Citadel Academy at Charleston, a Beneficiary pupil from Lexington: and one from Chesterfield: whose names shall be reported to the Superintendent of that Academy before the 1st January next.
The Board adjourned to meet at this place tomorrow morning at 9 O’ clock.
[Page 13]
Executive Office Col.
Dec 2 1845
The Board met at 9 O’ clock by adjournment.
Present
James Jones, Chairman
D. F. Jameson
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
J. H. Means
J. W. Cantey
Resolved,
That the expenses paid by the Chairman of the Board of Visitors, on account of postage, shall be refunded to him: and such as he may hereafter incur - & shall be paid out of the fund appropriated to the support of the military school.
Resolved,
That Professor Capers has leave of absence from the Citadel Academy, until the 28th December instant.
Resolved,
That the following Report be adopted, and handed in to His Excellency the Governor viz.
“To His Excellency Governor Aiken
The Board of Visitors of the State Military Academies, Respectfully report,
That the Citadel Academy, in the City of Charleston, is in a flourishing condition, increasing in efficiency and usefulness, and extending its popularity, as its merits become known.
[Page 14]
At the commencement of the present academic year, there were at that institution, fifty six pupils. During the year, the resignations, discharges, dismissals, & suspensions, have been twenty seven: leaving at the institution twenty nine, who were presented to the Board for examination on the third Monday of November. That examination has demonstrated to the Board the practicability of their plan of education, combining a course of thorough instruction in the physical sciences, modern language, history & belles letters, with a practical military education; and at the same time the efficient discharge of the arduous and responsible duties of an arsenal guard.
In the various subjects, upon which the classes were presented for an examination, (conducted with the most rigid scrutiny) the Cadets have exhibited a proficiency, in the opinion of the Board, seldom equaled, and rarely, if ever excelled, in any institution whatever. The officers have discharged their laborious duties with more than ordinary zeal and ability; and the character & position maintained by the institution under their charge, is at once honorable to them, and creditable to the State.
The Arsenal Academy in Columbia, has not succeeded in accomplishing the wishes of the Board of Visitors, to the extent desired. The course of this failure is mainly, if not wholly, referable to the want of proper physical means, to enforce the necessary rigid discipline and accountability of the Cadets. If the maintenance of this institution, either as a school, or as a depot of arms, was demanded by necessity, or the convenience of the county, the Board would
[Page 15]
ask your Excellency to urge upon the Legislature the necessity of granting an appropriation sufficient to erect a strong wall enclosing the post, and to pay additional instructors. But believing that the increased mean and diminished expense of transportation has satisfied all the reasons for the establishment of the post, as an arsenal; and that the Citadel in Charleston possesses advantages for a school, which cannot be realized here, we respectfully recommend that the two institutions, both as arsenals and schools, be consolidated at the Citadel.
In point of health, the three years experience has proved the Citadel superior in salubrity to the Arsenal at Columbia. Cadets from all parts of the state have been assembled there from the upper, as well as the lower districts, and all have equally enjoyed almost entire exemption from disease, and no case has occurred fairly attributed to a difference of climate. Indeed, we feel authorized to say, that the Cadets from the upper districts have enjoyed uninterrupted good health.
The Citadel is in a large and populous city: and in consequence, its officers and cadets under the salutary controlling influence of public opinion, unfettered by the number of young men placed in the institution, or the partiality of their immediate connections and friends. There, the institution will stand, or fall upon its merits alone.
As a general depot of arms for the state, the Citadel possesses the advantages of a position at a point, where all the rail roads and water transportation from all parts of the
[Page 16]
State, necessarily concentrate; and from which any section can be supplied with arms and military stores, at the least cost, and in the shortest time.
In addition to the advantages to be enjoyed by the citizens of the state, in the increased numbers which a combination of the funds now separately appropriated for the Citadel and Arsenal will enable & educate, the Board regards as not unimportant, the strength of the guard, and the espirit de corps and emulation excited by such increases.
The Board of Visitors, therefore, most respectfully ask your Excellency to submit to the Legislature, the propriety of consolidating the two institutions at the Citadel in Charleston.”
Respectfully submitted
(Signed) James Jones
Chairman of Board of Visitors
Columbia, December 1845
Resolved,
That the Board adjourned to meet at the place at 9 O’ clock AM, the day after the adjournment of the Legislature.
[Page 17]
Executive Office, Columbia
16th December 1845
The Board met by adjournment at 9 O’ clock AM
Present
James Jones, Chairman
D. F. Jamison
Daniel Wallace
W. J. Hanna
J. H. Means
J. W. Cantey
Resolved,
That the following beneficiary probationary pupils be directed to report themselves to the Superintendent of the Arsenal Academy on 1st January next, instead of the Citadel Academy as heretofore resolved: & that they be immediately notified hereof. Viz
1 Josiah Campbell – Kershaw
2 Chas. Kennerley – Edgefield
3 Ja. Bonham – Edgefield
4 A. G. Hayes – Lexington
5 Ja. F. Black – Laurens
6 Henry Thurston – Greenville
7 Ja. A. Walker – Abbeville
8 Ja. Muse – Darlington
9 Jn. B. Whittrell – Pendleton
10 E. S. J. Hayes – Richland
11 J. S. Collins – Barnwell
12 G. Lartigue – Barnwell
13 U. Rice – Barnwell
14 Tho. J. Counts – Barnwell
15 Geo. H. Bunker – Sumter
16 H. B. DeLorne – Sumter
17 Thos. Richardson – Sumter
18 J. L. McCollum – Marion
19 A. J. Evans – Marion
20 Ja. M. McCann- Fairfield
21 J. H. Howell – Kershaw
[Page 18]
Resolved,
That Baylis J. Maxwell, and John [illegible] be admitted into the Arsenal Academy as probationary pay pupils: and that
William Medlin – Marlboro
Christian J. Staley – Lexington
be admitted into the Arsenal Academy as probationary beneficiary pupils: and that they all report themselves to the Superintendent thereof on 1st January next.
Resolved,
That A. W. Cords and Jasper F. Butter be admitted into the Citadel Academy in Charleston as probationary pay Cadets: and that [space] Vaught of [space] be admitted into the Citadel Academy, as a probationary beneficiary pupil; and they all be directed to report themselves to the Superintendent thereof on 1st January next.
Resolved,
That Cadets T. S. Miller, J. J. Matthews & A. J. Jamison, be transferred to the Citadel Academy in Charleston: and that they report themselves to the Superintendent thereof on 1st January next: & shall enter such class as the Superintendent shall find they are qualified for, upon examination.
Resolved,
That the Beneficiary Cadets who are discharged or dismissed at either of the Academies, be allowed their expenses home.
[Page 19]
Resolved,
That the Bursar of the Citadel Academy pay to Doct. J. H. Boatwright of Columbia, the sum of fifty dollars (50$): his charge for medical attendance upon Professor Capers.
Resolved,
That the communication of Major J. G. Brown, relative to his son Cadet L. J. Brown, be laid on the table.
Resolved,
That the Bursar of the Citadel Academy be charged with the safe keeping: & preservation of the arms, ammunition, & other public stores & property confided to his case by the Superintendent.
Resolved,
That the officers of the Military Academies, be allowed fuel for their public offices, & recitation rooms; but not for their private rooms.
Resolved,
That leave of absence be granted to the Superintendent of the Citadel Academy, for 10 days, at any time he may deem it proper to leave the Citadel Academy.
[Page 20]
The Chairman of the Board, [space] submitted the resignation of Capt Herbert, Superintendent of the Military Academy in Columbia, of which the following is a copy,
“Arsenal
Dec. 16 1845
D’ Sir,
As my relinquishment of the post of Superintendent & Professor of the Arsenal Academy seems to be desired, I have no wish to embarrass the proceedings of your Board, by making it necessary for them to enforce my removal.
Which I therefore am entirely unconscious of having done anything to disqualify me for the post, I surrender to you my resignation.
I remain Sir,
Very respectfully
Yr ob serv
(signed) A. Herbert
Gen. J. Jones
Ch. of B of Visitors”
Whereupon, It was Resolved,
That the resignation of Capt A. Herbert, Superintendent of the Arsenal Academy be accepted, to take place on 1st January next.
Resolved,
That it is not necessary to fill the vacancy in the Arsenal Academy occasioned by the resignation of Capt Herbert.
[Page 21]
Resolved,
That Mr. Matthews be placed in the sole charge of the Arsenal Academy: & that his salary be increased to the sum of fourteen hundred dollars per annum, with the rank of Captain.
Resolved,
That it is expedient to elect another Professor for the Citadel Academy in Charleston for the ensuing year.
Resolved,
That Major John A. Leland be tendered the office of the additional Professor alluded to in the above resolution: & that he be paid for his services the sum of twelve hundred dollars.
Resolved,
That Major John A. Leland having accepted said office of additional Professor, be elected as such, with the salary of twelve hundred dollars to commence 1st January next.
[Page 22]
Resolved,
That the following titles be given to the officers of the Citadel Academy respectively; viz:
(Major) R. W. Colcock. Superintendent. Prof. Civ & Mil Engineering, etc.
(Capt.) F. W. Capers. Prof. Nat. Phil. Astron, etc. (Lieut) J. A. Leland Prof. Mathematics, etc.
Wm. Hume MD Prof. Chemistry. Geol., etc.
and that they take rank respectively in the order above named.
Resolved,
That the Department of Tactics be assigned to the Superintendent, and Professor of Natural Phil. and of Mathematics
That the Department of Belles Lettres be assigned to the Prof. of Nat. Phil., etc.
That the Department of History be assigned to the Prof. of Mathematics, etc.
That the Depart. Of French be assigned to the Prof. of Chemistry, etc.
Resolved,
That Professor Hume be relieved from all military duty.
The Board then adjourned.
Citation
Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina, “Minutes of the Board of Visitors of The Citadel, 1845,” The Citadel Archives Digital Collections, accessed April 25, 2024, https://citadeldigitalarchives.omeka.net/items/show/360.