Franklin County: A Soldier to the Pennsylvania Daily
Telegraph, April 30, 1861
Summary:
A soldier from Camp Slifer, near Chambersburg, PA, shares his thoughts with the
editor of the Daily Telegraph. He discusses the organization of the soldiers in
camp and mentions his officers' solemn promise that the soldiers will observe
the Sabbath. His letter also praises the camp's commanding officer, General
Williams and talks about residents of Chambersburg.
Editor, Pennsylvania Daily Telegraph
April 30, 1861
CHAMBERSBURG
MR. EDITOR -
This usually quiet town now presents a very animated and soldier like appearance, as the sound of the drum, the running to and fro of soldiers, and all the pomp and circumstance of glorius war, are the distinguishing features of our streets. Camp Slifer is situated near this place, on the Baltimore road, on level grounds, having a beautiful stream of spring water running through the camp. Gen. Williams and Staff arrived here on last Thursday, and at once proceeded to organize the camp. Two regiments were here, stationed at the Fair grounds and hotels, but in one day the sheds in the new camp were erected, and all the troops removed on Thursday evening. The energy and order with which these movements were directed soon made it evident that there was a master spirit at the head of affairs. The officers and men soon partook of the spirit of the chief, and each joined cheerfully in bringing order out of confusion. Gen. Williams issued general orders for the government of the camp, which are very explicit, and force the officers and men to the strict line of duty; and already we witness the result of such a discipline, as in a few days order has taken the place of disorder, and well drilled soldiers are now seen on parade instead of raw recruits. Spectators all express surprise at the rapid improvement in the drill of the men. You see no straggling soldiers about town, but every one is compelled to attend closely to duty -- a state of things which I have failed to see in other camps I have visited in the State. Gen. Williams requires the men to be occupied constantly, at either company or squad drill, except of course the time requisite for recreation and preparing meals. While some may complain of the severe discipline, yet all must admit that constant drill alone secures efficiency, and we therefore hear constant praise awarded the General Commanding for his firmness and ambition in making the regiments under his command a credit to the service. Gen. Williams is ably assisted by his aid de camp, Captain Patterson, Brigade Inspector Major Knipe, and Brigade Quatermaster Capt. Osterlough.
The citizens of Chambersburg have been generous in their contributions, and profuse in their kindness to the soldiers and officers; while the ladies, God bless them, smile upon us so sweetly as almost to captivate us all. Their kindness will be a theme of praise among the soldiers now in Camp Curtin in future years. Although not in secret, I fear some of the fair damsels have "laid seige" to the hearts of the gallant beaux in our comp., and may furnish a romance or a reality for the future novelist. They no doubt pity the noble fellows; but they should remember the poet says "pity is akin to love." We expect another regiment shortly, and have quarters provided for them. If the Government wish soldiers made out of raw recruits in double quick time let them send them to Camp Sifer under the command of Gen. Williams and it will be done.
I read in your Saturday's paper, an article headed "No Sabbath in War." Your remarks were very proper, and should command the attention of the officers of the volunteers now being organized. Gen. Twiggs once issued an order on the Rio Grande that Sunday would be dispensed with hereafter until further order. Such an order could only be issued by a man within whose breast beat the heart of a traitor.
The following is an order issued by General Williams on last Saturday, which I hope you will publish to gratify the parents and friends of the officers and soldiers now under the command of Gen. W., as it will show them that while he is the soldier and strict disciplinarian, yet he is mindful of their duty as Christians as well as patriots.
HEAD QUARTERS, CAMP SLIFER April 27, 1861.
