Florida and the Spanish-American War of 1898

Documents

Brigadier General Louis H. Carpenter to Governor Bloxham

From: Correspondence of Governor William D. Bloxham (Series 578, Box 15, Folder 7)

This letter is from the official correspondence of Governor William D. Bloxham in his second term, from 1897-1901. Bloxham guided the state through the Spanish-American War, a conflict which called for an unusual degree of participation from Florida. During the war, more soldiers died from disease than from battle wounds.

In this letter to Governor Bloxham, Brigadier General Louis H. Carpenter gives a report on the regiments that were sent from Tampa infected with typhoid and malarial fevers.

Louis H. Carpenter to Gov William D Bloxham

CAMP U.S. TROOPS,

Fernandina Florida, August 16th. 1898

 

The Honorable

The Governor of Florida,

Dear Sir:

In answer to your letter of August 13th. regarding the sick among the Florida troops, I beg leave to enclose a report from the Chief Surgeon giving the facts in the case.

The regiments here were sent lately from Tampa, very much infected with Typhoid and Malarial fevers. On arrival numbers were reported sick with insufficient means to properly provide for them. In addition an epidemic of measles broke out in the 1st. Florida regiment. Every effort was made to take care of the sick as well as possible under the circumstances. Each patient is now provided with a comfortable cot.

The necessary Medical Supplies have been received, the Hospital has been properly organized and there is no occasion for anxiety in the future.

Very respectfully

LH Carpenter

Brigadier General U.S. Volunteers

Commanding

 

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