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MINUTES
of the
44th ANNUAL REUNION
GEORGIA DIVISION
UNITED CONFEDERATE
VETERANS
Held in Tifton, Georgia
October 13, 14, 15, 1937
A. J* WOMACK, Commanding General
AUGUSTXN DALY, Adjutant General
Printed for Benefit of Confederate Veterans
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UntersilyofTexai
MINUTES OF THE 44TH ANNUAL REUNION OF THE GEOB^a'^
DIVISION UNITED CONFEDERATE VETERANS, TIFTON,
GEORGIA, OCTOBER 13-15, 1937.
JUNE 1, 1937.
General Order No. 2.
For good reasons shown the 44-th Reunion of the Georgia Division United
Confederate Veterans at Tifton, Georgia, will be held on October 13, 14 and 15,
1937, instead of October 6, 7 and 8th.
All Confederate Veterans, Daughters of the Confederacy* Sons of Con-
federate Veterans, Children of the Confederacy, The Ladies' Memorial Asso-
ciations, Daughters of the American Revolution, Sons of the American Revolu-
tion, United Spanish War Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American
Legion, Disabled American Veterans of the World War, and the Auxiliaries of
each, are cordially invited to attend this Reunion.
Our beloved Chaplain of the Georgia Division United Confederate Veterans*
Lt. Col. Rev. W. W, Memminger, having died since his appointment, I hereby
appoint as Division Chaplain in the place of Rev. W. W. Memminger the Rev.
L. F. Hanks, (S,C,V),
By order of Major General A. J. Womack:
Atjoustin Daly,
Adjutant General
Georgia Division U. C. V.
The Forty-Fourth Annual Reunion of the Georgia Division United Con-
federate Veterans assembled in the club rooms of the Woman's Club in Tifton,
Georgia, at six p. in., Wednesday, October 13, 1937. There the Confederate
Veterans and visitors were tendered a reception at which delicious refreshments
were served. All the business sessions of the reunion were held in the spacious
assembly hall of the Woman's Club. The club rooms were fitly decorated with
Confederate flogs, while a profusion of flowers, rich and rare, lent fragrance as
well as beauty to the scene. It was a colorful picture, roses nodding like beckon-
ing hands from the other shore, answering man's longing for immortality. The
gray clad visitors could see in each bursting bud the promise of the green fields
of Eden, and read in each open bloom the message of the ages: "I am the resur-
rection and the life.*'
At 7:30 p.m. the Veterans and their friends were called to order for the first
session of the reunion by Adjutant General Angus tin Daly, with twenty Con-
federate Veterans present. With a look of joy and a thrill of pride heroic hearts
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87611)5
made weak by time and fate, but strong in will, the Confederate Veterans took
a delightful social voyage with "youth on the prow and pleasure at the helm,"
Adjutant Daly invited Generals J. L. Driver and J, M. Nash to the plat-
form, both being Past Commanders of the Georgia Division.
Adjutant Daly announced thai General A. J. Womack had suffered a serious
accident and continued quite ill at his home in Macon, which explained his ab-
sence from the reunion. General Womack sent the following letter of greetings
and regrets;
"Macon, Georgia
October 12, 1937.
To the Forty Fourth Reunion, Georgia Division United Confederate Veterans,
Tifton, Georgia, October, 1937.
My Dear Comrades:
I was grateful beyond expression last year when I was chosen Commander
of the Georgia Division United Confederate Veterans and hoped to have a year
of usefulness during my term of office, but was, through ill health, unable to do
the things I had planned for the general welfare of the Division. I did my best,
however, under the clrcumetanoos.
Three months ago I Inn! an accident, sustaining serious personal injury
from which I now suffer, and have since that time been confined to my home.
I had looked forward with a great deal of pleasure to being with my comrades at
Tifton; that it is a great happiness to be with them I need scarcely say, and I
have a distinct disappointment in the Doctor having advised that I cannot
attend the Reunion. Indeed, I am considerably saddened in being denied being
with my comrades and seeing my friends at the Reunion.
Wishing nil of you a moat pleasant occasion, believe me with assurances of
great respect and the highest esteem,
Faithfully yours,
A. J. Womack,
Commander Georgia Division
United Confederate Veterans.
Dr. T. S. Clay, S. C. V,, spoke briefly on General Womack'a letter. He
brought a tribute of respect and affection to the stricken chieftain in words so
tender and sincere that they came like the benediction that follows after prayer.
On Dr. Clay's suggestion the audience gave a rising vote of sympathy and a
prayer for General Womack 's recovery.
The invocation was pronounced by Chaplain L. F. Hanks. The moment
was filled with pathos as the chaplain spoke rest to the dead and peace to the
Ci
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AuGuSTm Daly
Adjutant General and Chief of Staff,, Georgia Division, U. C, V,
living. As the good man prayed for the recovery of General Womack the silence
sank like music on every heart, broken by a murmur of aniens from the gray
pilgrims.
The reading of the Convention Call was omitted by unanimous consent,
Mrs. E. F, Southwell and Mrs. Robert Brown, accompanied by Mrs. W. A.
Lassiter, presented a series of vocal duets; (a) Maggie; (b) Juanita; (c) Santa
Lucia. Their dramatic voices rose und fell as a tensing audience heard "such
strains as would have won the car of Pluto."
The Veterans sat like rapt souls, held in holy passion, as Mrs, E. U. Holder,
President of the Charlotte Carson Chapter, United Daughters of the Confederacy,
welcomed the silver-crested crusaders of the Confederacy. This lovely woman,
like a fresh-blown rose washed in dew, whs another Helen and fired another
Troy.
"We love you. We are your Daughters. We shall not forget those whose
genius and blood bought our liberty and paid the price of our freedom. We hold
fast to those ideals of the past mid down through the ages we will keep before
our youth the glories of our blood and State. You are our rainbow that tints
tomorrow with prophetic ray. Your glory is the silver link that binds your
hearts to ours. May your visit to Tifton drive the cares away, and bring spring-
time to the heart with its harvest of a quiet age filled with memories of cheerful
yesterdays and hopes of confident tomorrows."
Mr. S. A. Youmans brought greetings from the city of Tifton. Under the
spell of his tribute lo the beautiful women of Tifton, there were symptons of
"petticoat fever" among the Veterans, and Major B. P. Leach, Tift county's
sole surviving Veteran, slide the show. "For he on honey-dew hath fed and drunk
the milk of Paradise." With nature's mother wit lie warned the young men
that only the Veterans could share those "lips that looked like rosebuds filled
with snow-"
Miss Leatrice Foreman, violinist, accompanied by Mrs. Lassiter, presented
a musical program which brought lo the Veterans memories of stars and flowers
and dewey eyes and smiles, and Bhadows that melted and fell apart in founts of
feeling. The rippling notes "I" Jingle Bells; the pensive beauty of Juanita; the
Polly- Woddle in a lighter vein. Eternal sunshine glowed on faces wet with tears,
and the Veterans trembled with emotion as old dreams came thronging back
again with Auld Lang Syne*
For the American Legion, Dr. W. L. Webb painted with a master's hand
the picture of the return of the starved and ragged Confederate soldier to bis
ruined and broken country. In words of beauty and pathos he told the story
of the redeemed and rebuilt southland, the garden spot of the nation. "The
united south of freedom and democracy is the work of your hands," said Dr. ^.
Webb.
Like echoing melodies, Mrs. J. J. Cliatt thrilled once more the lengthening
^ chain of memory as she brought happy greetings and everlasting gratitude from
the Tifton Music Club.
Mr. L. E. Bowen, representing Tifton's civic clubs, was left speechless, as
every kind of welcome had already been extended. He wittily remarked; "If
you are so hard headed and obstinate that you don't know by this time that you
are welcome, it is no wonder that it took ten times your number in yankecs and
four long years to win the war."
Dr. T, S. Clay presented Judge Augnstm Daly, Adjutant General, Georgia
Division United Confederate Veterans, who responded in bebalf of the Veterans.
Judge Daly's speech was a gem of Irish wit and patriotic eloquence. Himself
an Irishman, speaking the brogue of the Auld Sod, he provoked peals of laughter
as he described the struggle "as better than no war at all." His story of the
Irish Boldier's description of the Battle of Bull Run was the high light of reunion
humor. "Pat, did yon run?" "Did I run? Shure I Tun. Them that didn't run
are there yet."
In a more serious vein the gifted orator drew a graphic picture of the south's
struggle for independence — the shock of battle — the starved and ragged army
scattered by the whirlwind of war— the sword of Lee, even greater in peace than
it had been in war. True to his Irish blood, he knelt in reverence before the pul-
chritude of the ladies. His tribute to their beauty and charm could come only
from one who had kissed the Blarney Stone. Whist; hush — don't tell — it's
a state secret — the genial Irish Adjutant is worse than a humbug; he's a bachelor.
Colonel R. L. Avary stated that the program had been perfect, the most
beautiful that had ever been presented to the Veterans. "The color and spirit
of the program," said Colonel Avary, "show that Tifton understands the true
ideals of the Confederate soldier."
The concluding feature of the evening's entertainment was a musical pa-
geant, "The Old South," presented by the Tifton Music Club. The scene-
music room in an old southern home— a dear old lady was the hostess — musical
visitors — a black, mammy and her children — Shad, the colored yard boy — two
little while children, Jackie and Opal.
Like in some strange mysterious dream, the old soldiers dwelt in marble
halls as a rich voice filled the club house with melody. There came thriUing recol-
lections, old hopes, and old dreams which long in dust had lain, as the singer
carried them back to old Virginia, and fond memory brought the light of other
days. The pathos of the song was too much for old mammy, and her emotions
found expression in the plaintive notes of "Nobody Knows — but Jesus." At-
tracted by the music the children, white and black, came trooping in and mammy
^^ led her chorus in those grand old spirituals, "Swing Low Sweet Chariot, Coming
for to Carry Me Home", and "Steal Away to Jesus."
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Shad, the yard boy, told Jackie and Opal a thrilling story about a one-legged
goose^ Other numbers by the chorus were Auld Lang Syne; Lovers Old Sweet
Soug; Sally in Our Alley. As a finale, the gifted singers touched the tendereat
chord that vibrates in the human heart with "Home Sweet Home". Little
Jackie, who had been kept up far beyond hia usual bed time, climbed sleepily
into his father's lap and said, "I'm pretty well fed up." But the old soldiers,
their youth renewed under the inspiration of the hour, had just begun to frolic.
The following committees were appointed:
RESOLUTIONS:
General J. L. Driver
L. J. Hood
M. L. Harmsen
11- L. A VARY
NECROLOGY:
General C. C. McRae
A. S. Perry
Mrs. C. T. Tillman
AUDIT AND FINANCE:
McWnoRTEn Milner
C. T. Tillman
O. R. Burroughs, Jr.
Benediction by the chaplain. Adjournment.
Thursday morning, 10:00 o'clock, October 14, 1937.
Dr. T. S. Clay presiding.
Promptly at ten o'clock the reunion was called to order by Auguslin Daly,
Adjutant General, who requested Doctor T. S. Clay to preside during the day*
The invocation was pronounced by Dr. F. 0. Mixon, Pastor of the First Baptist
Church. Vocal selections, (a) "Camp Meetin* Song," (b) "Fairy Belles" were
rendered by a chorus of lovely women, Mesdamea Mitchell, Southwell, Gaines,
Thrasher, Golden, Banks and Brown. The music thrilled a vast and expectant
audience and was a fitting prelude of a grand day.
Next came the introduction of the Sponsorial Staffs, that presentation of
grace and beauty which is always the high light of every reunion.
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GENERAL A. J, WOMACfc'S STAFF.
In the absence of General Womack, Adjutant Daly presented the follow-
ing ladies:
Matron of Honor ....Mrs. W. T. Morrison, Macon
Chaperon....... .Mns. J. H. C. Williams, Macon
Sponsor Mrs. Oscar McKenzie, Montezuma
Maid of Honor.... Miss Lillian Henderson, Atlanta
Honorary Matron Mrs. J. R. Smith, Atlanta
Honorary Sponsor Mrs. Kirby Smith Anderson, Madison
LOCAL HONORARY STAFF
Mrs
Mrs. E. U. Holder
Mrs, C« B. Holmes
Mns. O. J. Woodward
Mns. A. L. Bowden
J, N* Mitchell
Mrs. Joseph Kent, Sr,
Mrs. L. W. Gaulding
HONORARY STAFF LIFE MEMBERS
Matron for Life... Mrs, A* O. Woodward, Atlanta
Matron for Life Mrs. Charles T. Tillman, Quitman
Chaperon for Life..... Mrs. Ernest B. Williams, Atlanta
\W Sponsor for Life Mrs. Anna Bryant Lane, Macon
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General J* R< Jones of the North Georgia Brigade presented his staff as
follows: Mrs. L. Thos. Gillen, Mrs. G. W. Hager, Mrs. J. G. McCurry, Mrs.
C. M. Sharpe, Miss Theo Bowie, Miss Hudnut.
General C* C, McRae of the South Georgia Brigade presented his staff as
follows: Mrs, Charles T* Tillman, Miss Mamie Lee Yarnadoe, Miss McRae.
Adjutant Daly announced that General A. G. Harris was unable to be present
on account of illness. It was unanimously voted to send telegrams of sympathy
to the following who were unable to attend on account of ill health: Generals
Womack, Harris, Hardy, and Winter; Mrs, A. O, Woodward, Mrs, Warren
White, Mrs. Frank Golden.
The following telegram was received from Governor Rivers:
"General A. J, Womack, Confederate Reunion, Tifton, Georgia,
Officially and personally I send greetings to each of you today. Your
valued deeds shall always be a cherished heritage. May the coming year
be rich in blessings for you all.
E. D. Rivers, Governor,"
Hon. C. T. Tillman received a telegram which was read to the audience
amid shouts of congratulations. It announced the birth of a new grandson. \
The following message from Mrs. Warren White was received:
"Best wishes for a successful convention. Only extreme illness pre-
vents my being present,
Mbs. Wauiien White, Matron of Honor
(By Nurse V
Dr. T. S. Clay presented Alexander Stephens Perry, who addressed the
convention.
A musical program was presented by the same group of charming women
who had stirred the Veterans earlier in the morning, (a) "Poor Wayfaring
Stranger/' (b) "Spinning Song." "Music when soft voices die vibrates in the
memory," and the grizzled Veterans wept as the golden voice of song led the
"Poor Wayfaring Stranger 1 ' into the shadow of a great rock in a weary land,
Mrs. Johnson presented Major Robinson of the State Park Commission,
who spoke briefly, outlining I lie plans for the development of the Jefferson
Davis State Park near Irwinvilln.
Dr. T. S. Clay made a thrilling speech on Confederate pensions. With
rapier thrusts and burning invivJivu lm stirred his hearers profoundly. There
were pathos and eloquence in his words as he declared that the Confederate
pension is an honorarium and not a charity. He seared and blistered those who
would make a mockery of Confederate valor by placing the Veterans on the
Federal relief rolls.
After a benediction by the chaplain the session adjourned to re-assemble
at a huge warehouse where the Veterans and guests were served a bountiful
barbecue dinner by the Tift County Commissioners.
Thursday afternoon, 2:00 p.m., October 14, 1937.
Dr. T. S. Clay presiding.
Promptly at 2 p.m. the assembly was called to order by Dr. T. S. Clay
and the invocation was given by Rev. M. P* Webb, Pastor of the First Methodist
Church.
Dr. W.R., Dancy and Miss Phoebe Elliot were presented as distinguished
visitors. Mrs. C. T. Tillman, 1st Vice-President, Georgia Division United
Daughters of the Confederacy, was invited to the platform. This lovely daughter
of the southland brought a greeting to the Veterans in words tender and appeal-
ing. Her face glowed with love and reverence for the old soldiers, as from the £ j
abundance of her heart she brought a message that will long be remembered.
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Mrs. Grace E, Meredith of Amarillo, Texas, was presented. She was greeted
with shouts when it was discovered that she had been the official hostess for the
Amarillo reunion and had a part in the royal entertainment that the Georgia
Veterans had received on that occasion. Other distinguished guests who were
presented were Mrs. T* K. Hall, wife of the Commander of the Florida Division
United Confederate Veterans, and Mrs. W. R. Dancy.
Hon. L. Thos. (Pat) Gillen, representing Governor Rivers and the Con-
federate Division of the State Department of Public Welfare, was presented.
Mr, Gillen's evident sincerity and the frankness with which he discussed
the problems of the Veterans' pensions showed his friendliness.
Cheers of approval greeted his tribute to the ability and fidelity of Miss
Lillian Henderson in the Confederate Records Department.
He stated that whatever grievance the Veterans may have had in the past
as to the payment of pensions there was no further grounds for complaint, as
the offending order had been revoked, and that in the future all Veterans would
be paid their pensions by the Ordinaries and exclusively from State funds in
exactly the same manner as heretofore, without any hint of Federal relief. A
burst of applause followed this statement, showing the interest and the approval
of his hearers.
He showed the difficulties that his department encountered, due to the fact
that so many of the Georgia Confederate records are in Washington, having been
seized by Sherman when he captured Milledgeville. He urged the Veterans to
ask the Georgia delegation in Congress to use their influence to have these records
returned to Georgia. In regard to the payment of future pensions he favored an
increase to fifty dollars per month and pledged his assistance if such a bill were
introduced in the legislature. He pledged his support to any resolution that the
Veterans might adopt.
Mr. Gillen's speech made a profound Impression on the Veterans and their
friends present. His words were earnestly spoken and happily received. He
convinced them that their interests would be protected at all hazards and that
the present State administration holds them in reverence and admiration.
At 3. p. m. the Veterans and their visitors formed a motorcade of nearly
one hundred cars, gaily decorated with Confederate flags, and made the first
public pilgrimage to Jefferson Davis State Park near Irwinville* where they
were met by delegations from Fitzgerald, Ocilla, Abbeville and Ashburn. A
heroic bronze bust of Jefferson Davis, surmounting a broad base of Georgia
marble, marks the spot where Jefferson Davis entered upon his martyrdom, a
fitting shrine for Dixie's buried hopes. The Ocilla brass band furnished ap-
propriate music for the occasion.
Giant trees tower above and beyond the monument and the sunshine spilled
through like bright drops of summer rain. As these majestic trees nodded sagely
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and whispered their age old secrets, heralds of all the ancient history of the south,
they seemed to say that Jefferson Davis breasted a storm of calumny from every
quarter and stood forth as unsullied as a god. No public man was over subjected
to sterner ordeals of character and a closer scrutiny of conduct- Whatever
record leaped to light his home could not be shamed and accusing tongues were
silenced.
"IjOt his great, example stand
Colossal, seen in every land,"
Mrs. Johnson, whose genius is creating Jefferson Davis State Park, pre-
sented Mrs. J. C. Duke, OcilLa, Mrs. Alex Story, Ashbum, Miss Irene McLeod t
Abbeville, each of whom brought greetings lo the Veterans.
The moat impresHive feature of the program was when Mrs. E. U. Holder,
President of the Churlotte Carson Chapter, United Daughters of the Confederacy
of Tifton, placed a wreath upon the base of the monument. One stood muled by
the sheer beauty of the scene. It woke a hundred wells of feelings in the soul.
Voices spoke In emerald silences that drowned men's babbling trivialities and
brought a calm so deep and holy that it stifled every thought that springs from
out the bitterness of things. It freed the mind from all the fuming vanities of
earth and cleansed the suul of all meditative spleen.
After further music by the band, including Dixie of course, the motorcade,
now grown to huge proportions, moved on to Fitzgerald where the visitors were
tendered a band concert and a reception at the Lee-Grant Hotel.
As the Veterans rode buck to Tifton in the twilight an ancient spell seemed
to drift on the breezes that sifted through the trees. Great thoughts, great
feelings must have come over them like instinct. What a pity that their emo-
tions could not be preserved for posterity.
8:30 |>, m. Grand Ball-
At 8:30 in the evening the Veterans were the guests of Tift County Post
No. 21, American Legion and their Auxiliary at a grand ball in the Legion's
new club house. "On with the dunce, let joy he uncon fitted." The Veterans'
definition of a cavalier is one who knows a pretty woman when he sees her.
With knightly courtesy and courtly manners these gay cavaliers danced with
the abandon of youths and heaven help the young man who tried to "break in."
A good time was had by all but the cup of happiness overflowed for the gallant
Veterans who frolicked until nearly dawn and showed up next morning as fresh
as daisies. What men they must have been at Gettysburg!
Friday morning, 10:00 o'clock, October 15, 1937,
Judge Augustin Daly presiding.
Promptly at ten o'clock the assembly was colled to order and the invocation
was pronounced by Rev. Freeman Parker, Paator of the Presbyterian Church.
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L. Thou. "Pat" Gillen, director of the Confederate Division of the State
of Georgia, shown unfurling the FlHg of the Confederacy, which he donated,
for the first time. Pat, who originated the idea, is seen hoisting the historic
Stars and Bars from a window in his department in the Georgia sLate capi-
tal — the first lime since the close of the War Between the Slates.
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A vocal duet, "Love in a Garden/' by Mrs. Mitchell and Mrs. Thrasher pleased
the Veterans immensely, oh they settled down for the final session of the reunion.
General A. G. Harris wuh a late arrival, and the gallant Veteran received a
great ovation as he was escorted to the platform.
Hon, C. T\ Tillman made « vigorous speech on the Confederate pensions,
quoting from a letter written by State Auditor Tom Wisdom. Mr. Tillman in-
sisted that the Slate of Georgia can and must provide the funds for Confederate
pensions, and showed by Mr. Wisdom's figures that the State has ample funds
from the cigarette tax, not only to pay the present pensions but to increase the
pensions to fifty dollars per month and then have a large surplus left. He showed
that Florida is now paying Confederate Veterans a pension of $50 per month and
made a strong plea for similar action in Georgia. At the conclusion of Mr.
Tillman's remarks a motion wan unanimously adopted to request Governor
Rivers to give his indorsement to a bill increasing the pensions of Confederate
Veterans and their widows as of marriage prior to 1881, to fifty dollars per month,
the same to be pant exclusively from State funds, and that this matter be included
in the call for the extra session of the legislature.
Mrs. Harry Craig of Augusta Chapter A, United Daughters of the Confed-
eracy, stated that she had sponsored a movement to pay fifty dollars per month
pension to Veterans only and that it had been indorsed by Chapter A, in Augusta,
and had been placet! in the hands of Hon. Roy Harris, Speaker of the House,
but that nothing further hail v.vvr been heard of the measure.
It was unanimously agreed to bring this matter of increasing the Veterans
pensions to fifty dollars per month to the personal attention of Governor Rivers
and urge him to include the same in his call for the special session of the
legislature.
Dr. T* S. Clay road a resolution prepared by him in regard to pensions. This
resolution was referred to the Committee on Resolutions and is included in their
report.
Adjutant General Daly road his finance report which had been approved
by the audit committee. On motion of General Driver the report was adopted,
t
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TO THE FORTY-FOURTH REUNION, GEORGIA DIVISION, UNITED
CONFEDERATE VETERANS, TIFTON, GEORGIA,
OCTOBER 13, 1937:
Report of Adjutant General, Georgia Division, U. C. V,
RECEIPTS
Amount received from Miss Lillian Henderson, Adjutant General
Georgia Division, February 3, 1937 $31 . 55
July 23, 1937, Confederate Veteran Association Camp No. 756, U. C. V. 1.00
Sept. 24, 1937, Camp Walker No. 925, Atlanta 1 . 00
Sept. 24, 1937, Confederate Association Camp, No. 435 1 . 00
Oct. 7, 1937, Camp Evan P. Howell, No. 1825, Atlanta 2.00
Oct. 9, 1937, Camp Sloan- Peebles, No. 1796, McDonough 1.00
Oct. 12, 1937, Camp Robert A. Smith, No. 484, Macon 1.20
Oct. 13, 1937, Camp Atlanta No. 159 2 . 00
Oct. 13, 1937, Camp Tige Anderson No. 1455, Atlanta 1.60
Oct. 13, 1937, Camp J, G + McCall No. 1783 1 .00
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$43.35
DISBURSEMENTS
March, 1937 Letterheads and stationery for Division Headquarters,
including printed copies of Staff $13 . 00
Postage 1 , 50
Stenographer , , 2 . 00
May, 1937 Postage 75
June 26, 1937 Long Distance to Tif ton ( Mr. Lewis) 1 . 00
July 30,1937 Postage 10
Sept. 21, 1937 Postage 1.00
Sept. 30, 1937 Long Distance to Tifton hy Adjutant to Mrs, E. U,
Holder of Reunion Committee * * 2.80
Oct. U, 1937 Postage 1.00
Oct. 12, 1937 Stenographic work 2 , 00
Oct. 15, 1937 Telegrams sent per instructions of Reunion . . . , * 1 .00
$26.15
Total Receipts 43.35
Disbursements 26. 15
APPROVED—
C. T. Tillman
O. B. Burroughs, Jr. Balance on Hand,
McWiiorteh Milner Oct. I5 t 1937 $17.20
Committee on Audit.
It appears in the financial report of the Adjutant General of the Georgia
Division, October 9, 1936, a balance on hand of $63.55. Subsequent to the filing
15
of the report of the Adjutant General the expense incurred in printing the min-
utes of the 1936 Reunion $32.00 was paid by Miss Henderson, the Adjutant Gen-
eral, and the balance* $31.55, Miss Henderson turned over to Augustin Daly,
her successor.
Respectfully submitted,
Augustin Daly
This 13th day of October, 1937,
Adjutant General, Georgia Division,
U. C. V,
Financial statement prepared from letter of Hon. Tom Wisdom, State
Auditor, dated Atlanta, Georgia, October 4, 1937.
Gross cigar and cigarette taxes paid
from July I, 1937 to October 4,1937 $ 611,376.31
Average monthly receipt
Less collection expense . . ,
204,000.00
12,000.00
Net per one month for pensions . .$ 192,000.00
Veterans on roll, 10/4/37—236 at $30 , $ 7 t 080.00
Widows on rolls, 10/4/37—1395 at $30 41,850.00
Widows to be added (estimated 1,500) at $30 45,000.00
Total to be paid out for pensions $ 93,930.00
With revenues per month of $192,000.00 and disbursements for pensions
as per above of $93,9:10.00 there remains a balance of $98,070.00 to be turned
into the State's general fund. In other words, the stale is now receiving from
the cigar and cigarette tux twice as much money as is needed to pay all veterans
and widows, including the fiflcen hundred new widows recently added to the
pension rolls.
Should $20.00 per month additional be paid to 236 Confed-
erate veterans, the amount needed is $ 4,720.00
$20.00 per month to widows as of marriage prior to 1081, 1395
widows now on rolls . . , . , 27>900.00
In other words, after paying all Confederate Veterans fifty dollars per
month and paying all widows as of marriage prior to 188 L fifty dollars per month,
and paying the new widows recently added to the rolls at the rate of thirty dol-
lars per month, there would still be left in the General Fund of the state each
month the sum of $ 65,450.00
This surplus to he returned into the General Fund each month would steadily
increase each month due to the death of veterans and widows.
<*
RESOLUTIONS,
General J. L. Driver presented the report of the Resolutions Committee
as follows:
(1) Be it resolved by the Georgia Division United Confederate Veterans,
today assembled in convention at Tifton, Georgia, that we tender our sincere
thanks and voice our appreciation to the Mayor and City of Tifton for the at-
tention and courtesies shown the Veterans now in their fair city, and that we
also thank the Daughters of the Confederacy, the Music Club, the Woman's
Club and other organizations for their many acts of kindness and for courtesies
shown us. We are delighted to include in our resolutions of thanks the County
Commissioners, the American Legion, the civic clubs and the Boy Scouts for
their unfailing help and close attention to our comfort and safety. Especially
do we return most grateful thanks to the general committee of loyal and lovely
women, of which Mrs. Joseph Kent, Sr. T was chairman, for the very able and
complete service that this committee rendered in entertainment, automobiles,
badges, decorations, music, pages, flowers, and all those other reunion details
which has made our visit to Tifton so delightful. Every event of our reunion
was perfectly arranged and from the depths of grateful hearts we return most
sincere thanks.
(2) Be it further resolved: That we convey to our beloved Commander,
General A. J. Womack, our sincere regrets that he is unable to be present to pre-
side at this Convention and to assure him of our continued love and high esteem,
and to wish for him an early return to his usual good health. We also hear
with regret of the illness of our esteemed friend and Daughter of the Confederacy,
Mrs. A. O. Woodward, who for many years has been a factor in the success of
our reunions. We wish to assure her of our continued love and esteem and to
wish her an early return to her accustomed health and activities.
Upon the above resolution being read there was the announcement from
the floor of the illness of General J. P. Hardy, General A. H. Winter, Mrs. War-
ren White and Mrs. Frank Golden,
A motion was made and unanimously passed to include them in the above
resolutions and that a telegram of love and sympathy should be sent to each
of them, which was done.
(3) Be it further resolved: That we accept the invitation of the Governor
of Pennsylvania to be present at the Anniversary of the battle of Gettysburg
on the 26th day of June, 1938, PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the Confed-
erate Veterans be allowed to carry their flags in parade on that occasion.
(4) Be it further resolved: That we are deeply and lastingly grateful to
the private homes in Tifton, which have been so generously and unselfishly
thrown open for the comfort and entertainment of the Veterans and visitors
during their stay here.
16
( n ) To the press we desire bo express our sincere thanks for liberally giving
ipiM through their columns endorsing - and encouraging this glorious reunion,
O) And Insl, but not least, we congratulate the City of Tifton for its beau-
liiul women who ho graciously adorn its streets and homes.
Respectfully submitted by your committee:
General J. L. Driver, Chairman
M. L. Harm sen
L. J. Hood
Robert Lee Avary.
The resolution on Confederate pensions as offered by Dr. T. S. Clay having
Ihvu adopted by tin: committee and included in their report, all of the n:solu-
tioiiH were unanimously adopted.
Resolution on Confederate pensions as offered by Dr. T. S. Clay. Unani-
mously adopted by the Reunion.
t * *
To the Governor of Georgia: ■
Whereas much difficulty has been experienced of late in the handling and
management of the pensions granted, by this great State to the Veterans of the
Confederacy and their widows as of marriage prior to 1881, and,
Whereas, further extension of this pension was granted by the last meet-
ing of the General Assembly wheTeby the marriage date for Confederate widows
was extended to 1920, which will require a further enabling act to provide these
funds, and
Whereas, it has been proposed to place those who are eligible on the Federal
Welfare Social Rolls, causing much dissatisfaction and unhappiness to all of the
Confederate bodies, whose pension is an honorarium for past valued services
rendered our State in the time of her need, and not a relief and charity:
Be it resolved, That we endorse the recent action of the United Daughters
uf the < onfi (Irnicy in requesting that a separate department be maintained for
tlie handling of all Confederate matters.
And bo it further resolved, that as the present number of the Confederate
Veterans and their widows of marriage date prior to 3881, the real widows of
tin- Confederacy, is not excessive and their days with us are rapidly passing,
soon to In- seen no more,
Hi- It resolved that the status of these shall remain as heretofore, free and
Independent of »ny other measure, as a pension or honorarium maintained en-
tirely from the resources of this State, and not amalgamated with or in any way
depondont upon any Federal contingencies.
Bfl il further resolved that in the consideration of any enabling act, which
we aie informed will he necessary to provide for the payment of those widows
18
^
included in the extension act of marriage 1SB1 to 1920, this considering and
enabling act shall include only for transfer to the Federal Welfare Rolls, those
of this extension measure who may be eligible and shall not include Veterans or
their widows of marriage prior to 188l t which latter class shall be continued as
before, provided by the cigarette tax, and that these shall he included in the call
for special meeting of the General Assembly.
General Driver read the report of the Committee on Resolutions. By un-
animous consent Dr. Clay's resolution was added to the committee's report,
Dr. Dancy offered from the floor a resolution in regard to the Manassas
Battlefield Commission. This provoked considerable discussion and some
acrimony. Dr. Dancy withdrew his resolution.
The report of the Committee on Resolutions was unanimously adopted.
General J. R* Jones nominated General A. G. Harris of McDonough as
Commander of the Georgia Division for the ensuing year. This was seconded
by General Driver and General Harris was unanimously elected. By unanimous
vote of the Veterans, Judge Augustin Daly was elected permanent Adjutant
General, which he first declined and then accepted temporarily with appre-
ciation.
Division commanders for the coming year were elected as follows:
West Georgia Brigade — Hiram Vanzant, Macon
East Georgia Brigade — J. L. Wheeless, Washington
North Georgia Brigade — -JVf . Y, Griggs, Atlanta
South Georgia Brigade — C. C McRae, Quitman
At this time lunch was served in the club dining room to those Veterans
who were to leave on the early afternoon train. The others remained in the hall
where a memorial service was held for the Veterans who had departed since the
last reunion. Colonel R. L, Avary and Chaplain Hanks were in charge of this
service. There are 236 living Veterans in the State as of October 1, 1937. Twenty
two were present at the reunion.
Your committee on Necrology submits the following report:
According to the report of State Auditor Tom Wisdom there are 236 Confed-
erate Veterans and 1395 Confederate widows on the pension rolls as of October
1, 1937.
Between October 1, 1936, and October 1, 1937, the following Confederate
Veterans have died in Georgia:
Alex. W- Allen
Dr. Arch Avaby
S. M. Ayers
J. H. Brooks
A. 0. Bennett* Sr.
Jacob Beck worth
H. F. Birdsonc
R. F. Burch, Sn,
S. F. Bagwell
E. D. Baldwin
19
W. D. BuTTERWORTH
Isaac Chandler
J. W. Carder
J. F. Cooper
James M. Collins
J. H. Cantrell
P. II. Ham
J. A. Owens
«
^
Gen. H. G. Vanzant G. W, Waldrop
J. D. Child s
G, W. Hightower
D. J. PlTTMAN
Gen. J. L. Wheeless B. F. Williams
S. G. Childs
C. K. Henderson
J. Parker
After a musical selection by Mrs. B. L. Southwell the benediction was pro-
W. McV. Cameron
L. L. Howell
James W. Pinkney
nounced by Rev. A. S. Ulm, Chaplain, Georgia Division Sons of Confederate
Henry Crawford
H. C. Jennings
C. C. Pope
Veterans.
Tnos. U. DoBBg
J. II. Jackson
Lee Pope
John E. Dye
G. A. Johnson
James K. Polk
The Forty-Fourth annual reunion of the Georgia Division United Confed-
J. D. Dowling
G. W. KlNARD
J. C. QuiNN
erate Veterans was ended, and the gallant twenty-two Veterans turned their
R. B. Davis
B. C ItENURICK
Samuel Register
faces homeward. As long as one of these old heroes shall remain, let us in knightly
J. M. Daniel
T, R, Kendall
John M. Richardson
reverence, place a strong and loving arm about him as he totters onward in his
John W. Dyer
L. E. Lastinger
J. E. Reid
last long march, ere he goes hence to join the Grand Reunion of the Gray in the
J. T. Duffy
J. T. Lassiter
B. W. Roberts
Gity not made with hands eternal in Lhe heavens*
J. E. Dickenson
Frank S. Loftin
E. W. Reeves
Henry Edgar
N- B. LUMSDEN
T. W. Rigsby
"Their foes had found enchanted ground
Z. T. Estef
L. E. Lassiter
Jostah M. Reese
But not a Knight asleep."
John W. Green
J.J. Giles
J. Frank Hodges
Tom Munjiy
J. G. Morris
C. W. Mathews
R. Van Smith
G. A. Seymour
Jesse Taylor
After adjournment a delightful luncheon was served to the Veterans and
their friends in the Woman's Club House by the men's civic clubs of Tifton.
J. J. HlNTON
H. B. Meadors
J. G. Tolleson
A. S. Perry
H. I. Harvey
S. J. Mitchell
J, Ben Thornton
Secretary.
B. J. IIuggins
T. J. Marchman
J. W. Taylor
B. F. Hilderrand
Thos. J. Howard
W. M. Massey
M. 0. MgMullen
J. E. Travis
N. W\ Tate
4
&
M. K. Hudlow
J. G. McElroy
Geo. W. Williamson
W. K. Hawk
T. C. McBride
John A. Williford
Macon, Georgia.
J. C. Hereon
Z. T. McKee
Edward Wadsworth
July 22, 1937.
James IIxjllender
John W. McGuffey
John W. Willingham
W. B. Huie
S. C, McBride
T. M, Wood
E. R. Hamilton
J. B. Nicholson
It aurVfiM 1 t 1 1 1 1 \~
N. D. WlTCHER
i-wm vf ^ i i 1 ^w
GENERAL ORDER NO. 3.
By virtue of the authority of my office as Commander Georgia Division
LieopCCLIUlij DUJJIUI bl>CU
General C. G. McRae, Chairman
MrQ PlTAH T 1 Ttfthiiv
United Confederate Veterans, General G. C. McRae of Quitman is here-
by appointed Commander of South Georgia Brigade with rank of Brigadier
A. S. Perry
Committee c
'
General, succeeding Brigadier General John Calhoun Herron, deceased, and will
n Necrology
be respected and obeyed as such.
A. J. Womack
The following veterans were present at the reunion:
Major General,
Wm. J. Bush
Gen, M, Y.
Griggs
Commanding Georgia Division U, C. V.
Theo Babr
Gen. A. G. Harris
J. G. Braswell
Gen. J. R. Jones
Augtjstin Daly
W,H. Culpepper
H. J. KlGHT
Adjutant General and Chief of Staff.
J. C. Dodgen
Major-B. P
Leach
Gen. J. L. Driver
Gen, C. C. McRae
A. W. Dobn
J. C. MuLLINlX.
«
#
F. S. Drewhy
Gen. J. M. Nash
Tuck Edmundson
A. B. Ramsey
20
21
G
ADDENDA.
The Honorable Alexander Stevens Perry, S. C- V. Historian General,
GEORGIA DIVISION, U. C. V. graciously acted as secretary at the sessions
of the reunion at Tifton, Georgia, October 13, 14 and 15, 1937, and took and
prepared the minutes thereof in a splendid manner, which will appear from read-
ing them.
The reunion on its second day had a real pleasure and rare treat, in listen-
ing to an address by Colonel Perry, Historian General of the Division, being
introduced by Doctor T. S. Clay, S. G. V. Doctor Clay properly praised Colonel
Perry for his unswerving loyalty, uniform kindness and indefatigable efforts at
all times, on behalf of tin; Confederate Veterans.
The address of Colonel Perry, breathed the true spirit of the glories of the
Old South and Southern ideals, and hia beautiful tribute to the Confederate
Soldier was u literary gem of wonderful felicity of diction and graceful eloquence,
which elicited the admiration of everyone.
I feel constrained to make this reference to Colonel Perry, as his innate
modesty precluded hut saying anything in the minutes about his speech, except
that he made one. He was by unanimous action thanked for taking and pre-
paring the minutes and for the eloquent address he delivered.
Augustin Daly, 5. C. V.
Adjutant General & Chief of Staff .*
United Confederate Veterans.
T>
MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF THE SONS OF CONFEDERATE
S^ VETERANS HELD IN THE WOMAN'S CLUB AT TIFTON, GA-
FRIDAY AFTF.RNOON, OCTOBER IS, 1937,
CONVENING AT 2:30 P.M.
Meeting called to order by Commander Oswell R. Eve, Georgia Division
Sons of Confederate Veterans.
Invocation by Rev. A. S, Ulna, Chaplain, Georgia Division, S. C. V.
The order calling Convention was read by the Adjutant and is attached
marked Exhibit "A."
Cordial greetings were extended by Mrs. E. U, Holder, President, Charlotte
Carson Chapter, U. D. C, and Honorable S. A. Youmans, City Manager of Tifton.
The response to greetings was made by Past Commander-in-chief, S. C. V.,
Dr. Wm. R. Dancy, Surgeon, Georgia Division, S. C.V., in his inimitable and
pleasing manner.
One of the most attractive and interesting features of the Convention was
the presentation by the Commander of the Sponsors in attendance, as follows;
Mrs. Wm. R. Dancy, Sponsor on the Staff of the Commander-in-Chief, S. C. V.,
Mrs. Oscar McKenzie, Matron of Honor, Mrs, Harry Craig, Chaperon and Mrs.
Charles T. Tillman, Sponsor, on the Stuff of the Commander. Mrs. James N.
ylr Robinson, Matron of Honor and Mrs. Gordon W. Chambers, Chaperon, on the
Staff of the Commander of the 5th Brigade. Mrs. 0. B. Burroughs, Jr., Matron
of Honor and Miss Marion Dearing Schley, Maid of Honor, on the Staff of the
George Washington Rains Camp, Augusta, Ga.
A moat interesting and instructive address was made by Honorable Mc-
Whorler Milncr, Commander, Amiy-Tennessee Dept., S* C. V.,on "Citizenship
inherited by the Sons and Daughters of the South from their Confederate An-
cestors," which reflected a great deal of research and thought. The Commander
of the Georgia Division expressed the hope that this address would be put in
proper form for distribution to the citizens of Georgia.
A Credential Committee composed of Mr. James Gardner, Commander,
5th Brigade and Commander George Washington Rains Camp, Augusta, and
Rev. A, S. Ulm, Chaplain, was appointed by the Commander, who reported
that there were 19 sons present and 5 camps represented.
The Commander appointed a Resolution Committee including Dr. Wm. R.
Dancy, Surgeon, Ga., Division, and Mr. Chas. W. West, Commander, John
B. Gordon Camp, Atlanta.
Commander Eve made a very interesting but short address in which he
requested that a Committee of five be appointed to assist him in perfecting
the organization and carrying on the work,
23
The following resolutions were presented, motion made to adopt, were
seconded and adopted:
/-
W
MANASSAS BATTLEFIELD
Whereas, the general organization at its convention in Shreveport, La.,
authorized the transfer of ita Manassas Battlefield property to the U, S. Parks
Commission, by a deed with conditions subject to the approval of the Manassas
Foundation and the executive board of the Sons of Confederate Veterans.
And whereas t the first, deed, with conditions properly approved by the Sons
of Confederate Veterans, was declined by the federal park commission, and
whereas a second deed has been presented, subject to the approval of the Man-
assas Foundation and the executive committee.
Whereas, it is understood this second deed transfers the property to the
government in fee simple, that is with the entire surrender of all interest of the
Sons of Confederate Veterans without, condition.
Whereas, such an approval of transfer by the S. C* V,, surrenders one of the
greatest incentives of our organization, places our property in the hands of the
government for marking, for which wc cannot expect full representation for
Confederate soldiers 1 deeds of heroism and a correct story of the battle from
our viewpoint, and ts contrary to the general sentiment expressed throughout
all Confederate orgiuii/ntious.
Whereas, funds w«e contributed to its purchase with the distinct under- lj§
standing that it would always remain the property of Sons of Confederate Vet-
orans.
Whereas, tin* Sous of Confederate Veterans are evenly divided as to the
advisability of the transfer and such a transfer would more deeply dull the in-
terest in our organization than to leave the matter as it is.
Whereas, the Soon of Confederate Veterans would receive lews criticism
by declining to support the tnmsfer and would by so declining place the res-
ponsibilily of transfer, if il occurs, entirely on the hoard of trustees.
Be it resolved, that lh« Souk of Confederate Veterans express their un-
qualified disapproval of the Nuid transfer and urge the Commander-in-Chief
and executive council to give the matter their earnest consideration and dis-
approve such an net.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Whereas* the burden of worh is great for the Commander of the Georgia
Division, S* C. V., and is often too extensive for him to carry on alone:
Be it resolved that he be authorized to appoint a committee, known a3 an
executive committee, to advise with him and aid him with his work.
C
RESOLUTION OF THANKS
Your resolution committee desires that the Georgia Division S. C. V., express
their warm appreciation for the many acts of kindness shown to it and to the
tL C, V. these past few days.
Particularly do we appreciate those who planned our meeting, many of
whom have taken the central parts of domestic duties, acting aa guide, and in
numerous ways have shown such sweet cordiality to every one of us. We do
indeed especially wish to recognize the self-sacrificing spirit and generosity of
the IL D, C + , the American Legion, the Men's and Women's Clubs, the City
Government, the Boys Scouts, the D. A. R., the Fitzgerald U. D. C-, and Legion,
the Press and any others whom we may not have mentioned.
Wm. R. Dancy and Chas. W. West,
Committee on Resolutions.
The following Resolution of the Atlanta Ladies Memorial Association was
presented by Honorable McWhorter Milner, seconded by Mr. James Gardner,
and adopted:
"Whereas the grant of pensions to Confederate Veterans and their widows
ttjQ by the State of Georgia and other Southern States, has been on the principle
of obligation for services rendered, and for exposure of life* health, and property
in behalf of a cause for which they fought, and
Whereas such pensions have never been granted as alms or charity, and
such pensions have been regarded as badges of honor and as evidences of ap-
preciation of the valor and sacrifice of the soldiers of the South, and
Whereas it is now undertaken to put Southern soldiers and their widows
in the class of those who are receiving donations of a charitable character, and
Whereas the pensions for Confederate veterans and their widows have
been manHged heretofore by those who were in sympathy with the sentiments
of the South, and
Whereas it is now attempted to place in charge of the distribution of these
pensions officials from distant states, whose feelings are not in accord with those
of the people of the South;
Therefore be it resolved by The Atlanta Ladies Memorial Association that
we request the State Authorities to conduct the Administration of the Pension
Department in the manner and spirit heretofore recognized as appropriate in
dealing with the Southern Pensioners of the Wur Between the States, and that
_A no direction shall be given that will humiliate these worthy recipients of the
pensions by placing them in an indigent class.
2»
/ 1 d be it further resolved that we endorse the resolutions adopted at a
joint meeting of the Confederate Veterans, United Daughters of the Confeder« {#
acy, Sons of Confederate Veterans, The Atlanta Ladies Memorial Association
held Tuesday, September 21, 1937 at the Atlanta Chapter House, U. D. C."
* * *
Honorable Charles T. Tillman of Quitman, Ga., nominated Judge Oswell
R. Eve for reelection aw Commander. This motion was seconded by Dr. Dancy
who moved that nominations be closed, which carried and Commander Eve
was re-elected unanimously.
The Convention requested Commander Eve to make the appointment of
all subordinate officers at his leisure.
There being no further business the Convention on motion duly seconded,
adjourned to meet again at. ti plum and time to be selected.
0. B. Burroughs, Jn.
Adjutant.
EXHIBIT "A"
HEADQUARTERS GEORGIA DIVISION
SONS OF CONFEDERATE VETERANS
AUGUSTA, GEORGIA
General OnnEiis No. 7,
September I, 1937,
ANNUAL DIVISION CONVENTION ORDERED
1. The CiunpM mill Brigades of the Georgia Division Sons of Confederate
Veterans, arc hereby officially notified that the Annual Convention of the Sons
of Confederate Veterans will he held at Tifton, Georgia, October 13, 14 and 15,
1937, when the United Confederate Veterans hold their Forty-fourth Annual
Reunion.
2. Camps are requested to elect delegates to the Convention immediately.
A Camp is entitled to one delegate and one alternate for each ten members, and
one delegate and one nU-ermite for each additional ten members or major frac-
tion thereof; provided that no Camp be entitled to less than two delegates.
Delegates will register at Division Headquarters upon their arrival at Tifton.
3. Brigade and Cuinp Coninnmders are requested to appoint their "Of-
ficial Ladies" (Matron, Chaperon, Sponsor and three Maids of Honor) immed-
iately in order that they will have time to make their arrangements for the Con-
vention. All "Official Ladies" are requested to register at Headquarters of the
Georgia Division Sons Confederal.)! Veterans, as soon as possible upon their
arrival at Tifton.
26
4 .
4. It is the earnest desire of your Commander that this Convention be the
most successful in the history of the Organization. Matters of great importance
will come before the meeting, and all Sons are urged to be present and take part
in the business which will come before the Convention. All Camps should elect
delegates at once.
5. The Camp and Brigade Commanders are expected to cooperate with
Headquarters in giving publicity to this order, and all Camp Commanders are
urged to iiave same read at a meeting of their Camps.
6. All parties concerned will acknowledge this order.
By order of
Official:
Oswell R* Eve
Commander, Georgia Division,
0. B. BunnouGHS, Jr.
Adjutant and Chief of Stuff,
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