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1202872
GENEALOGY COLLECTION
ALLEN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
I III I
3 1833 0230
MEMORABILIA
And Anecdotal Reminiscences
of Columbia, S. C, and Inci-
dents Connected Therewith.
BY
JULIAN A. SELBY.
Columbia, S. C.
The R, L. Bryan Company.
1905.
W^W^iWi^W^W^W^W^
ir<
1202872
PROLOGUE-A FEW WORDS OF EXPLANATION.
V
Hozv the Idea of Publication Originated.
*> Being blessed with a retentive memory, and disposed to inquire
into matters and things generally; often called upon to give in-
formation on different subjects to parties in various parts of the
State — from the establishment of a library chartered by the Gen-
eral Assembly in 1805; the occupants of the premises northeast
corner of Richardson (or Main) and Taylor streets in 1820; any
particulars as to Count von Hassel, whom the party thought might
. be a relative; and the killing of an individual in 1872 — these are
merely samples, taken at random. To the first I could not give a
definite answer; but suggested, that it was known that a charter
had been granted for a library, and one would reasonably suppose
the organizers had carried out their ideas. The second I happened
to know from reading an advertisement in The Times and Gazette
of about that date, that the "Indian Queen Tavern" was located
on that spot, and the name of the proprietor (who proved to be
the individual about whom the information was wanted). As to the
third, the party was informed that Count von Hassel took an over-
dose of laudanum, died and was buried in Trinity Church-vard;
that his widow soon after gave up a flourishing seminary, located
in a large building which stood opposite to where her husband was
laid to rest, went away and died at the North soon after ; that there
was no property to be disposed of (the Count's estates having been
confiscated, it was understood) ; and as these events had occurred
nearly sixty years ago, I couldn't see any reason for further
inquiry. The last I satisfied the inquirer was a similarity of names
— the one having died in 1858, naturally.
I have from earliest childhood been fond of listening to conver-
sations between and anecdotes told by elderly people, and storing
these statements away on memory's shelves, and it is wonderful
how fresh they keep — turning them over occasionally and airing
some that have been quietly reposing for numberless years. Mam-
evenings I have spent with my old friend. Airs. Mary Hilleeas —
reading to her news and advertisements from files of old papers,
and listening to her interesting comments. Her memory was
wonderful, and I have been enabled to corroborate some of her
information in such a satisfactory manner, that I take the balance
4 MEMORABILIA — rROLOGUE.
as literally true. We would seat ourselves — the old lady taking a
pinch of snuff, wiping her nose with a red silk handkerchief, hold-
ing her head aside, and then deftly using a handsome linen one
conspicuously. The reading would then begin and the replies to
queries be brought out, besides voluntary information. There are
several other elderly acquaintances from whom I have obtained
intelligence at different times, and I have reason to conclude they
were communicating what they believed was the truth. So that I
can safely venture considerably beyond my own times.
Quite a number of individuals, aware of this fad of mine, and
also the memory, have suggested that I get these reminiscences or
bits of information together, put them in readable shape, and lay
them before the world. This I have endeavored to do in this
volume. Have not pretended to give them chronologically, but just
as they happened to be brought to mind, without actual connection,
but in anecdotal salmagundi shape.
A great many circumstances I am aware of that would be read
with zest and curiosity by some, but cause pain and an opening up
of old wounds to others, so I have omitted reference to them. As
a good priest once said to a dying man, who desired to make a
statement of painful circumstances of which he was aware: "My
son, if you can do no good in your fast-ebbing life, do no harm ; I
prefer not to hear your communication." And he was right. I
don't mean to intimate that this applies to my case, for I have just
passed two or three years over the three-score-and-ten mark, and
hope to see the four-score ; but if the powers above order differently,
I have an abiding faith in the idea that my shortcomings may be
counterbalanced by some good points, and that I will be able — as
with my grammar lessons at school — to pass, through the kindness
of my Master. And with this apology, I put forth what I may term
this Memorabilia.
That in this conglomeration
(Plain talk and versification),
I've hurt no man's reputation,
True — needs no verification.
If it meets your approbation
(S'pose might say, appreciation) —
Testify glorification
By subscribing — demonstration.
Columbia, S. C, September, 1905. JULIAN A. SELBY.
MEMORABILIA.
EXCELLENT MEMORY— DOUBTERS CONVINCED.
Three to Four Years of Age.
My recollection is unusually good — at least, many people so
think. On some occasions, after relating circumstances that
occurred when I was but three and four years of age, I have had
insinuations made as to my data. One instance in particular in
proof of my assertions I recall: The good Father Birmingham
(afterwards Vicar General of the Catholic Church in South Caro-
lina) was in charge of St. Peter's Church in this town in 1837, and
for several years before and after that. The old gentleman must
have been a lover of children and unusually pleasant— children are
excellent readers of dispositions, and generally govern themselves
accordingly. I distinctly remember his looks — square black cap on
head, and black gown, walking slowly around the church-yard,
missal in hand, and conversing freely with me. The fence enclosing
the church premises in front was unusually low, and I would almost
daily clamber over to pay a visit to Rev. Mr. B. I was then three
years of age: the record says I was born February (>. 1833. To
corroborate my statement as to age : during the early seventies, the
Holy Father paid what, I believe, he knew would be his last visit
to his old parishioners here and elsewhere. I should have stated
that he would occasionally minister to his religious brethren in
different sections — Camden, Newberry, Edgefield, etc. — where there
were no regular houses of worship. I even remember the appear-
ance of the reverend gentleman on his raw-boned horse — an
unusually large animal, while the Father was a rather small-sized
man — with his old-fashioned saddle-bags, on his labor-of-love jour-
neys, as I would occasionally see him depart. During the morning
service on the occasion referred to, the Rev. Mr. B. spoke from the
altar very pleasantly about my mother and myself, and told of my
visits and perambulations around the church-yard with him, while
I was in my third year. That settled the "Doubting Thomases" —
even though at a very late date. Father Birmingham made his
rounds among his old parishioners, and returned to his home in
6 MEMORABILIA AND
Charleston, where he soon afterwards died, at an extreme old age —
not, however, before the completion of the pretty little chapel on
Sullivan's Island, "Star of the Sea," which he was so much inter-
ested in. I paid several flying visits to him, and shaking his cane
at me, he would often threaten to knock some of my old Methodist-
ical ideas out of me.
To Charleston by Stage and Railroad.
On the fourth anniversary of my birth — February, 183" — my
mother and a party paid a visit to Charleston during the famous
"Race Week." Some went by steamboat from Granby down the
Congaree to the Santee, then through the Santee Canal to Cooper
River, and so to the "City by the Sea." The others took the land
route — stage coach to Branchville, then by steam cars — passenger
coaches, short seats running across (something like our summer
electric cars) and a footboard on the outside for the accommodation
of the conductor. There were some freight cars attached — short,
light affairs, with wooden frames and cloth sides. The rain poured
during nearly the entire trip. Hogabook Swamp, a few miles
below Columbia, was almost impassable, I heard said. On reaching
our quarters in the city, we were asked whether we came by land
or water, when "Smart Ike" I promptly replied "Water." "No,
my son," my mother put in; "we came by land." I responded, in
an unsatisfied way, "Well, it rained all the time." During our
peregrinations around the city, I received several presents from
lady clerks in the stores, among them a "false-face." I merely
speak of this to show that my memory is all right. In my hurry to
"scare" the inmates of our boarding house with the mask, I tripped,
fell and thoroughly demolished the nose, and gave my own some-
thing of a bat.
An elderly gentleman in the house took quite a fancy to me, and
trotted me over the city almost daily — visiting the shipping (and
the masts of the vessels looked thick as dead trees in a swamp) and
other objects of interest — invariably winding up our morning
excursion with a visit to the old "French Coffee House," on the
north side of the Bay, near Broad street, where I was regaled with
a wee glass of "Perfect Love" cordial and a slight lunch. In those
days, I am informed, Madeira and Sherry wines, Hock and Port ;
Maraschino, Noyau, Curacoa and other cordials and liqueurs, were
considered "the thing." I was particularly attracted by the paper
on the wall — life-size battle scenes, etc. Although the building was
used for various purposes in after years, including a newspaper
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. /
office, it happened that I never went in it again until some time
during the seventies, when I was struck with the familiar appear-
ance of the wall papering, and a gentleman remarked that this
paper had been on the walls since the place had been used as the
"French Coffee House," forty or fifty years before. My old friend
seemed to be afraid that I would get away from him, and so he
invariably, before we started out, tied his handkerchief around the
wrist of each of us, and so we would sally forth.
The Charleston Hotel was then being constructed, and the scaf-
folding was still around the immense structure. Speaking of the
matter a few years ago before a latter-day Charlestonian, he
remarked that I had made a mistake as to dates — that the Charles-
ton Hotel was not commenced until the forties. My reply was,
"See Mr. M. H. Berry when you next come to Columbia, and he
will prove to you by his memoranda that he was sent to Charleston
bv his employers in Newark, New Jersey, with furniture, curtains,
etc. , for the new hotel in the winter of 1 838. ' ' He made the inquiry
but never afterwards referred to the subject.
Stage Upset — His Stuttering Saved Him.
Returning from the before-mentioned trip to Charleston, we had
an upset ; but fortunately no one was seriously hurt. There were
four or five ladies in the stage-coach, and in being lifted from the
overturned vehicle, they left their low-quartered shoes behind.
Gaiters were unknown then for young people ; elderly ladies wore
cloth shoes, which were laced up over the ankles, called prunellas —
but whether the name referred to the shoe or the material is beyond
my ken. The jar extinguished the oil lamps, and as matches were
not much in vogue, the ladies had a time of it in selecting their foot
apparel, when Mr. Lemond (a Scotch gentleman living in Fair-
field) had gathered up the slippers and dumped them on the ground.
The shoeless ones felt with their toes, and finally secured their
property. One little lady declared that she had gotten hold of one
which would hold both her feet ; when my mother, who was a larger
specimen of humanity, said she had one which she could not get
two of her toes into comfortably — they exchanged.
A short time before the upset, one of our passengers, an out-and-
out Yankee, by his questions, carried a box very carefully on his
knees, and was thought to be a surveyor, complained that his legs
were so badly cramped that he would like to get out and walk
awhile. He was a terrible stutterer. An elderlv gentleman, who
8 MEMORABILIA AND
carried a heavy cane, offered to look after the precious box, if he
would like to try the road. He availed himself at once of the offer.
The driver directed him to keep to the right, there was no danger of
getting lost, as the river was in sight all the way. The horses were
walking slowly and the little man soon got considerably ahead of
the vehicle. The upset occurred, but the old coach was soon righted,
the baggage re-packed; and we began jogging along again, when
somebody commented on our not overtaking the walker. Another
said that when the little fellow heard of our mishap his first inquiry
would be about his property. "If he says a word about his box,
before he inquires about the passengers, or at least the ladies, I'll
thrash him with this stick," holding up his bone-breaker. Just after
daylight, near the Congaree Bridge, we came up with our stutter-
ing passenger, who was waiting for us on the side of the road.
"Hello, driver," he said, with a stammer: "what's the matter?"
"Upset," replied our Jehu, gruffly. "Is my b-b-b — anybody hurt?"
was the next inquiry. There was a roar from the amused passen-
gers at the break in his inquiry. "Lucky for you," put in the elderly
party, "that you stammered ; for if you had inquired about your
box before you did about the passengers — or the ladies at least —
you would have been forced to go under a surgeon's hands before I
got through with you." The Yankee's property was uninjured.
I should have stated that our Scotchman, after things were made
right, exclaimed earnestly, "We all kem doon in a loomp thegither,"
which was indelibly impressed on my memory.
Happy Jack and Elisabeth.
"Happy" Jack was the sobriquet of our driver, and I saw him
many times afterwards — a hearty, good-natured soul. His wife
had a comfortable home near Sandy Run, I think. It was said that
at one point the road passed within a mile of the house but a turn
required over two miles to reach it. The good dame would prepare
coffee, biscuits, meat, etc., bank the fire in the big fireplace and
retire. When Jack with his vehicle reached the nearest point, he
would blow "The White Cockade and the Black Cockade." or some
other simple air, on his horn, give a loud wind-up toot, and yell
"Elizabeth!" which would have the effect of arousing his passen-
gers and waking up his faithful helpmate. By the time the stage
arrived, a hot breakfast would be on the table — much to the grati-
fication of the weary travelers and the pecuniary advantage of
Elizabeth.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES.
THE OLD COLUMBIA THEATRE.
Tragedy, Song. Dance and Farce.
In the good old days, "'fore de wah," as the darkies express it. in
all dramatic performances, there was a comedy or tragedy, followed
by a song, dance and farce. The elder Booth (Junius Brutus),
Dan Marble, Xed Forrest, Wm. H. Crisp and other heavy men (and
women, too. for that matter) have played engagements here in
"stock" companies. One season, T. G. Booth (the only comedian
in the family ) was the comic singer. His father had an engage-
ment, and finding that his son was disgracing himself by such
employment, attempted to break his contract ; but found he could
not do so. He pocketed the affront and went on with the perform-
ance. "The L'sed-up Man," the popular song of the day, was
frequently given, with such emendations and local gags as the
singer could ring in. The following is a specimen of the original :
I aint got no steady home,
Nor nothing else, I s'pose,
.Mi-fortune follows me
Wherever about I goes.
I supposes when I dies,
From Satan I'll he driven,
And made to wander round
Outside the walls of Heaven,
With none to take me in,
Xo critter for to greet me,
And when I wants a drink.
Not a soul to treat me.
The "Exchange" saloon was an extensive establishment and
well kept — first class, in every way ; and was situated on Main,
below Washington, where David's restaurant now is. Messrs.
William Beard. Thomas Baker and Charles Xeuffer were the part-
ners — the latter silent, as he was then a candidate for Sheriff, an
office that he was elected to and satisfactorily filled. Mr. X. was
present at the theatre one night, a little "loaded," and was so pleased
at the rendition of the following verse, that he stepped forward
and extended this invitation in a loud tone of voice : "You come to
the 'Exchange,' after the show, tell 'em Charley Xeuffer send you.
and you get all the peach and honey you want. Bring your friends."
The incident "brought down the house," and ready compliance fol-
lowed :
I aint got no good friends,
Likewise short of money.
Baker and Beard won't trust
For their peach and honey.
The same season. Wise, the famous aeronaut, was to make a
10 MEMORABILIA AND
skyward voyage in a large balloon filled with gas. Mr. Fayette
Howe, a school-teacher, obtained permission, and made the ascen-
sion successfully. Booth, that night, added this to "The Used-up
Man" — the recollections of the Harrison campaign had not yet
died out:
We aint got no log cabins,
Xo hard cider nor no coons,
But have way of traveling
In smashing big balloons;
It would not take up Wise,
And so to stop a row,
They sent off a schoolmaster,
His name was spelt some Howe.
Of course, hearty applanse was the response. The reference to
a row arose from this circumstance : A so-called balloonist came
through here, strapped, and succeeded in getting some gullible par-
ties to advance the necessary funds to construct an aerial apparatus.
The fellow evidently knew something about the business, employed
a number of females to work on the job, and at the promised time
a presentable-looking balloon was brought out of ''Carolina Hall."
But a slip-up was made in the varnish to cover and protect the
apparatus. It was carried to Coleman's Circus lot, where an
immense crowd had gathered to witness the ascent. The "Profes-
sor" made a short, descriptive speech, and the inflation began. As
soon as the balloon was expanded with the gas, cmeer sounds were
heard, and rents made in numerous places in the airy vessel. The
crowd got unruly, broke through the ropes and soon destroyed
the flimsy affair. The "Professor" escaped through the back way
with the entrance money and disappeared. Mr. Howe became
infatuated with ballooning, and took up making airy flights as a
business. He made several successful ascensions in different places,
and finally drifted to Columbus, Georgia, where resided Mrs. Beach
(nee Miss Caroline Neuffer), a young and handsome woman,
whom he had attempted to address in Columbia some time before,
but she declined his attentions. This was his last aeronautic effort.
He ascended, his light support disappeared, and sixty years have
elapsed, but his return to terra firma has never been recorded. He
literally went "Up in a balloon, boys, up in a balloon."
An Actor at the Age of Ninety-Six.
C. Toler Wolfe, "a general utility man," who, like the late Eugene
Cramer, was good in tragedy, farce or comedy, played here several
seasons. He remained on the stage until he was nintey-six years of
age, and then, although seldom out of an engagement, died poor.
He "had a skeleton in his closet," which kept him down.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 11
W. C. Forbes and his wife, with a fine company, played here two
seasons. They afterwards attempted a performance in a town in
Florida, but a party of Indians made a raid on them, killed several
of the actors and carried off the costumes and properties. The
military authorities sent soldiers to punish them ; so when they
came across a buck with a fancy garment on, they shot him down.
This raid broke Forbes, and he wound up his career in New York.
Laura Keene, the well-known English actress, played in Forbes'
company for a short time ; and it was terrible to hear her hollow
cough while taking the rollicking part of Lady Gay Spanker in
"London Assurance." She returned to New York, built a theatre,
which was named for her, played a celebrated engagement with
Joe Jefferson and Sothern in the "American Cousin," lost her
theatre through some trickery, and died. Actors are unfortunate
proprietors. Lester Wallack made a failure with his theatres, and
Edwin Booth was equally troubled.
Joe Jefferson's First Appearance Here.
Jefferson & Ellsler (Joseph Jefferson and John Ellsler), with
their wives and an unusually good company of comedians, played
an engagement here the winter and spring of 1849-50 — first in the
old theatre and then in American Hall, the site of the building now
occupied by Sligh & Allen. They depended on their company and
had no "stars." The town authorities were so delighted with the
performance that they refunded the license fee of $10 a day for
the entire season. Joseph Jefferson, Jr., was disappointed when he
discovered that he was two years older than he thought himself.
I had a pleasant chat with Mr. Ellsler on his last visit to Colum-
bia, six years ago, with his daughter, Effie. Notwithstanding his
years, he took the part of "Adam," in "As You Like It." He
remembered me perfectly — owing to a pleasant circumstance which
occurred during their engagement here. As I was about to leave,
he took one of my hands in both of his, and feelingly said, "When
you visit New York again, come straight to my house, so that we
can talk of old times before we cross the river." He crossed.
I called on Mr. Jefferson in his car two years ago, and was
pleasantly received. I told him, that night, if never before, he
would play to three generations — myself and wife, several children
and grand-children. He proffered me "passes," but I assured him
I had secured tickets several days before. In response to a curtain
call that night, he referred to his having been the manager of a
theatre here in 1851, and that he was pleased to say that in one case,
12 MEMORABILIA AND
at least, he had played to three generations that night. The old
partners, Jefferson & Ellsler, were not long separated. Mr. Ellsler
died about two years ago, and Mr. Jefferson recently. My earnest
wish is that they may meet in a better land, and if not permitted to
enact parts as in our world, to pass as satisfactorily before the bar
of the Great Judge as they did that of public opinion here.
It was principally through Mr. Jefferson's influence that the
Church of the Transfiguration, in New York City, was brought
prominently before the world, and obtained the sobriquet of "The
Little Church Around the Corner." Mr. George Jordan, a well-
known comedian, died, and as he had been a frequent attendant
at a church on Fifth avenue about 2?th street (called by the "boys"
"The Church of the Holy Chicken Cock," from the fact that the
vane on the steeple was a rooster), Mr. Jefferson, with a com-
mittee of actors, applied to the rector for permission to have the
funeral services performed there. The reverend gentleman objected
on account of the profession of the deceased ; but suggested that
there was a little church around the corner where they might be
accommodated. "God bless the little church around the corner,"
was Mr. Jefferson's fervent reply. Dr. Houghton politely agreed
to their request, and the services over the dead actor were performed
there. Edwin Booth and other eminent actors and actresses of
note have been buried from the beautiful edifice. Mr. Booth has
a handsome memorial window there.
An Old Landmark Removed.
The removal of the theatre, situated on the northwestern corner
of Assembly and Plain streets, was regretted sincerely by the resi-
dents of Columbia — it was looked upon as a landmark and one of
the oldest buildings in the town. It was erected in the early
twenties, I am informed, by a Dr. Harrison, and was originally
a three-story building — the upper floor to be used as a ball-room ;
but it was thought to be unsafe, and the upper story was taken down.
An Unfortunate Manager.
Mr. De Camp, a prominent actor from England, managed the
Charleston, Savannah and Columbia Theatres. He is said to have
been Frenchy in his manners, dressed well, and was very genial.
He would personally deliver his theatrical programmes, but in such
a suave manner as to make himself unusually popular. Col. John
S. Preston became very intimate with the Frenchified English gen-
tleman, and was a constant attendant at the theatre. De Camp had
a coach and four, and traveled from city to city in grand style. His
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 13
wife was said to have been a beautiful woman, and her husband
much attached to her. She was taken suddenly ill and died in two
or three days. De Camp appeared to be almost heart-broken. The
bereaved man had the corpse packed in saltpetre and buried
temporarily, as he thought, in rear of the theatre, to be trans-
ported to England when the theatrical season was over. But
misfortune overtook the manager, and the saltpetred woman still
reposes in her narrow bed on the lot in rear of the Ursuline Con-
vent — although efforts have been made to disinter it. but without
success, as the spot was unmarked. De Camp quietly left these
parts and nothing was heard of him for several years. Col. Pres-
ton was returning from New Orleans by boat, and when about
stepping ashore at Mobile, he recognized De Camp, who w r as com-
ing aboard to deliver milk — having added the business of milkman
to that of acting. Col. P. shook hands cordially with his old
acquaintance, who greeted him heartily and insisted on his driving
out to his farm with him (his vehicle was in the next street, so he
informed the Colonel), a few miles from the city, and partaking of
an excellent breakfast. The invitation was politely declined, but
the old actor persisted, and before Col. P. could take in the situa-
tion thoroughly, he was pushed into a milk wagon, with a number
of vessels containing the lacteal fluid. Resistance was useless, so
he made the best of it, and for an hour or two was compelled to ride
around Mobile — De Camp keeping up an incessant chatter, getting
only monosyllables in reply, until his stock was delivered to his
numerous customers, when the promised breakfast was partaken of.
At the time, the work of the former manager was unusually heavy.
He arose before daylight in the morning and milked his cows ;
delivered his supply in the city ; came back to breakfast ; then to the
theatre to rehearse ; back to dinner, and again to the theatre in the
evening. At the age of seventy he died. Poor old De Camp.
Didn't Approve of Such Tragedy.
A company of English players — Hart and Carter — next put in an
appearance, with Charles Young as stage manager and a Mr. Field
as "the heavy man" — and heavy he was, too. These were the days
of oil lamps. One night, in playing, Mr. Field slipped and struck
the floor in a very natural manner, but not in approved theatrical
style ; the jar extinguished the footlights. When the disconcerted
actor got behind the scenes he was soundly reprimanded by the stage
manager, who inquired in a sneering manner, "What do you call
that?" "Tragedy, sir," was the cool reply. "Damn such tragedy!"
14 MEMORABILIA AND
was the indignant answer, and thus the episode ended. Mr. Young
and his daughter remained in Columbia after the company left, and
lived in the rear of the theatre, cultivated a garden, and the aged
actor passed away quietly after a few years.
Thrce-Y car-Old Actor.
My connection with the theatre — if such it may be called — com-
menced with the Hart-Carters. When a child was needed in
"Pizarro," "The Bleeding Nun" and other tragic representations,
my services were in request. The students of the South Carolina
College used to promenade Richardson street every afternoon in
parties of three and four, and being very often on the sidewalk in
front of the hotel — "The Mansion House" — where Lorick & Low-
rance are now quartered. I got quite "chummy" with the young-
men, and was the constant recipient of "fourpences," fruit, candy
and pinders. As Cora's child, on one occasion, I was presumed to
be asleep, and was the sole occupant of the stage for a few minutes.
The collegians recognized me, and began calling, "Wake up, Jule,"
etc., throwing oranges, apples and candy to me (the young men of
those days carried such things and gave them away freely to chil-
dren). Notwithstanding my instructions to remain perfectly still,
I could not resist the temptation, but jumped up and began to collect
the toothsome things with one hand, the other holding my skirt as a
receptacle. Cora finally rushed out. carried me off, and the curtain
was rung down until quiet was restored.
Murder Will Out.
A company of four (with their mother ) would pay us two visits a
year, going and returning from the more Southern States — the party
invariably arriving by night in a large Jersey wagon, and leaving
after dark. It was what might be termed a vaudeville troupe, and
gave a pleasing performance, as I have heard older heads say. They
called themselves Chapman — William, John, Lucretia and Abigail —
the two latter beautiful young women, the one light complected,
the other dark. There was a mystery about them. Finally it became
known (this was before the days of telegraphing and fast railroad
trains, therefore news traveled slowly.) that they were from Phila-
delphia ; that the father had been poisoned, and that a taxidermist,
a friend of the mother's, had been hanged, being convicted of the
murder, while the wife, who was believed to have been the most
guilty of the two, escaped ; and it was said the supposed murderess
ever after avoided the light of day as much as possible — passing the
time in sleep when she could. On one occasion, the children arrived
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 15
here in daytime, dressed in deep mourning. But it was their last
appearance — the story of the murder evidently operating against
them, and they drifted into the great unknown.
No One-Night Business in Old Times.
By-the-way, I should state, that while a theatrical troupe would
generally play through an entire season of three or four months
(with the aid of an occasional "star"), circuses, menageries and
other road shows would remain from three days to a week — John
Robinson's shows invariably put in a week. Three generations of
Robinsons have visited this section in the last sixty-five years — Old
John, Jack, and John, Jr. A minstrel troupe put in a week, and
were forced to stay a week longer. From here they staged to Cam-
den, and declared afterwards that they could hardly get away from
that hospitable town. Old John Robinson, like his fellow-showman,
Phineas T. Barnum, died seized and possessed of an immense for-
tune, both starting in life poor. ,
P. T. Barnum Began His "Show Life" Here.
Barnum, it may as well be mentioned in this connection, be^an
his career as showman in Columbia. He was advance agent for
Napoleon Turner's Circus in 1837, which company disbanded here,
and Barnum reorganized it and continued on a route through the
Southwest.
Excellent Driver, Policeman and Captain.
Mr. Wm. H. Casson drove a wagon for this show, so as to reach
Columbia at small expense, where he was to take a place as stage-
driver for McLean & Co. (Daniel, John and Hugh), who were mail
contractors, and ran coaches to Branchville, Augusta and other
points, and were succeeded by Douglas & Ward. Capt. Ward, with
his pet mare. Black Bess, is well remembered by many of the present
generation. (The Captain used to declare that he knew the road so
thoroughly from Columbia to Augusta that he could lay down in
the bottom of the stage, and locate every stump between the two
cities. Capt. W. firmly believed that he could repeat Jack Shep-
pard's ride from London to York on the namesake of Jack's famous
animal.)
Capt. Casson used to tell a number of his experiences during his
trip with Turner's show, which are corroborated in Barnum's
printed "Life." The circus reached Columbia the day Col. Pierce
M. Butler was inaugurated Governor, and to make as great a display
as possible, the band was secured to serenade his Excellency. Capt.
16 MEMORABILIA AND
Casson was a fiddler — and a good one, too — but not a manipulator
of brass instruments. The leader of the band wanted his young
friend to enjoy the frolic, so suggested that he carry an extra instru-
ment and "keep up with the procession," which he did. Of course,
the first business was to take the party to a saloon to "wet their
whistles." The Northern musicians were used to plain whiskey,
rum, etc., and the multiplicity of the names of the fancy compounds
confused them — "Hot Apple Toddy," "Peach and Honey," "Flip,"
"Cherry Bounce," etc. However, they decided to follow the lead of
the Southerners and take them all in ; the result was, that by the
time the serenade was over they were all full, as other parties beside
the Governor had been honored. Capt. C. says that was the first
and only time he was ever intoxicated.
Capt. Casson was an excellent drill officer, but his rendition of the
King's English was sometimes after the order of Mrs. Malaprop, in
Sheridian's "Rivals." For instance, he and his command were
stationed on Morris Island. The steamer "Star of the West" was
expected to make an attempt to enter Charleston harbor, when Capt.
C. informed his men that they "Must bivouhauk right there, as they
expected the enemy every minute annually." On another occasion,
in Richmond, Va., when his boys had just finished an unusually fine
bit of drilling, he informed them, in all seriousness, "That they had
done that admirally." If the Captain's opportunities for an educa-
tion were short, he certainly had thoroughly learned and practiced
right from wrong, and passed from this world with the just reputa-
tion of being an earnest, honest man and a good friend to the poor.
His greatest pleasure seemed to be to seat himself comfortably in
the evening, with his fiddle, and produce such airs as "Pea Patch,"
"Old Rosin the Beau," "Taffy was a Welshman," "Big Foot Nig-
ger," and other airs unknown to this generation, until it was almost
impossible to keep one's feet still.
Mr. Casson served some time acceptably on the police force ; but
his energy nearly cost him his life. Mr. John Altee, at his well-
known grocery, southeast corner Gervais and Gates streets, was
suspected of selling liquor to negroes, but had never been detected,
although a close watch was set over him. Policeman C. disguised
himself as a darkey, went to Mr. A. and attempted to purchase
liquor. Whether Mr. A. was provoked at the suspicion of his being
guilty of the offence, or recognized the white man through his sup-
posed disguise, I don't know ; but he promptly seized an axe-handle,
and so severely frailed his would-be customer, that had not assist-
ance been forthcoming, the days of the energetic policeman would
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 17
have been numbered ; as it was, he was laid up several weeks. All
sorts of measures were resorted to in order to detect these liquor-
sellers ; one was to furnish a negro with the necessary money to
purchase a drink, then put a piece of sponge in his mouth, and when
he came out., taste the simple detective.
A Valuable Slumber Robe.
About this time, the students and young men of the town were
stirred up over the graceful dancing of Miss Clara Fisher, and the
theatre was nightly crowded during her engagement. She and her
mother were, of course, guests of Mrs. Hillegas. In cleaning up the
room and changing the bedding upon the departure of the famous
danseuse and her parent, a discarded slumber robe belonging to the
young woman was discovered, and Aunt Dolly picked up several
dollars from infatuated parties by cutting up the garment and dis-
posing of it at twenty-five cents for a sample. Martha, a jealous
chambermaid, who did not share in the proceeds of the treasure,
declared that linen enough was disposed of to make several slumber
robes. Perhaps Dolly was like Jack, in Mark Twain's "Innocents
Abroad," with reference to souvenirs of Mar's Hill, where Paul
had preached : "As long as there are pebbles in Indiana, I'll have
relics of the hill."
Another dancer created quite a sensation among young Colum-
bians—Miss Emeline Gannon. In after years, I inquired about them
in Xew York. Miss Fisher got too stout to pirouette around, so she
turned her attention to the drama ; became an excellent actress, mar-
ried a Mr. Maeder, and had a son who made quite a reputation as
a comedian. Miss Gannon took up comedy, and was for a number
of years leading lady in Lester Wallack's famous company. She
died suddenly about twenty-five years ago. I remember seeing her
in Wallack's well known comedy, "Rosedale."
Christ Betzueen the Tzvo Thieves.
In the good old days, St. Peter's (Catholic) Church had on the
right a circus building and, on the left the theatre. The irreverent
used to express it, "Christ between the two thieves." Isaac Coleman
was the owner of the circus lot and building, and on holidays would
give a fine display of fireworks of his own make. I remember the
fight between the Constitution and Guerriere, on one occasion — when
the Constitution's balls not only cleared the decks of her opponent,
but also the seats of the lookers-on. Nobody was seriously hurt, but
the spectators scattered. The building was finally converted into a
ten-pin alley, and some of our best people would manipulate the
2— M
18 MEMORABILIA AND
balls. Mr. I. D. Mofdecai would occasionally take a hand. He
would select the largest ball, rush half way down the alley, let the
ball go, gesticulate violently and not bring down a pin ; if by acci-
dent one or two were tumbled, he would chuckle over his luck for
half an hour. The venture was not a success, and the building was
torn down, the old timbers being used in the erection of several cot-
tages on its site, and they are in good condition at this time.
The Grand Finale — Burial of Calhoun.
The last use made of the theatre was a moving (dionamic-cosmo-
rama, or an equally expressive term) representation of the funeral
of Senator John C. Calhoun in Charleston — the arrival of the
steamer "Governor Dudley,"' from Wilmington. N. C. escorted by
the "Metamora" and other steam craft in port ; the procession and
finally the interment of the body, in the plot in the rear of the Cir-
cular Church, on Church street. Notwithstanding the solemnity of
the subject, laughter was caused by the machinery not working
properly — the soldiers would take a rapid step or two and stop, then
another start, with similar irregular movements by the horsemen
and vehicles. Joe Randall, the colored trumpeter, at the head of the
dragoons, was recognized by the small boys and cheered. Randall,
though a resident of Columbia, was deemed essential to the parades
of the mounted men of Charleston, as he was an excellent trumpeter.
Bring Out Your Blamed Lion.
Some old-timers well remember Mr. Aleck Brodie and his wife,
who used to ride around in a sulkey, the fashion of a hundred years
ago. They lived at the northeast corner of Main and Richland
streets. The old gentleman's face looked like the moon at the full,
and he was generally in that condition. They had no children, but
were very attentive to those of other folks. Mr. B. was a Scotch-
man of pugnacious breed, for with him it was a word and a blow.
One afternoon while walking around in a menagerie with his favor-
ite bull-terrier, "Tige," the animal attempted to reach a lion in his
cage when a keeper gave him a kick, which so enraged Mr. B. that
he promptly knocked the man down, stepped back, with his arms on
guard, and called out. "Bring out your blamed old lion; 'Tige' can
lick him and I can lick you." The bystanders interfered, quiet was
restored, and Mr. B. and his dog walked proudly out of the tent.
The old gentleman kept a number of goats, and many a delightful
afternoon I have passed riding the animals, under the careful guard-
ianship of the man-of-all-work. Adam. The old couple passed from
the stage of life but a few weeks apart.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 19
ANECDOTES ABOUT GOOD PEOPLE.
A Successful and Skillful Physician.
Dr. Robert W. Gibbes, Sr., was a scientist in every sense of the
word, a very skillful physician and surgeon, an able writer on varied
subjects, and a genial, charitable gentleman ; besides being a valued
member of many foreign as well as American literary associations.
When Dr. H. H. Toland decided to take up his abode in Cali-
fornia, Dr. G. succeeded to his professional business and removed
to Dr. T.'s home, northeast corner Sumter and Plain streets. His
old homestead was on the northwest corner of Marion and Lady
streets. Our venerated friend took up Dr. Toland's practice among
the Hampton negroes ; and Gen. H., commenting on his practice,
under the new regime, declared that Gibbes saved him fully $5,000
a year in slaves. ''Toland lanceted them to death, while Gibbes
lifened them with quinine." Among the other legacies obtained by
Dr. G. in the Toland transfer was The Palmetto State Banner, which
was being extravagantly run by Mr. I. C. Morgan. Instead of
receiving interest on the mortgage, he was constantly being called
upon to put out money for expenses, and was finally compelled to
foreclose. By proper management and his extraordinary business
tact. Dr. Gibbes made a success of the paper, both daily and weekly,
and swallowed The South Carolinian, in 1852, when my business
relations began with him. I can back up Gen. Hampton's statement
as to the lancing — I have several reminders on my left arm. Dr.
Gibbes, with his other duties, edited the paper, assisted by his eldest
son, James G., Esq., succeeded by poor Frank Gaillard, a pleasing,
forcible writer, who lost his life on the battle-fields of Virginia. It
was during this time that trouble occurred between Capt. James D.
Tradewell and Editor Frank Gaillard, and a challenge passed. ?\Ir.
G. would write up his editorials several days ahead (for he wielded
his pen with the greatest facility) occasionally, and go off on a court-
ing trip to Winnsboro — maybe it was to see his children by a
deceased wife. I looked after the news matter and the general
management of the office. During one of these trips, an imperative
note was received at the office from Capt. T. I telegraphed Mr. G.
and he promptly returned to Columbia. The officials got hold of
the matter and attempted to arrest the parties. Capt. T. "hid out,"
and Mr. G., with his bosom friends. Dr. Junius Nott and Beverly
Means, secured quarters in an out-of-the-way part of the Congaree
House (site of the Jerome). Although not responsible in any way
20 MEMORABILIA AND
about the matter, I was terribly worried during the two or three
intervening days. A Board of Honor took the affair in hand and it
was amicably adjusted.
Dr. Gibbes was fond of puns and double entendrcs, but insisted
that italics should never be used. "If a point is so weak that the
reader cannot see, it must be poor," he would say. On one occasion,
the famous singer, Parodi, gave a concert here, which very much
pleased the editor-doctor, and in commenting on it, he said the bovs
on their way home Parodied the singing. Forgetting directions. I
put it Parodi-ed— making him repeat his wishes more explicitly.
It never again occurred. His printing office, on Washington street,
near Richardson, was totally destroyed by fire, soon after midnight.
The next morning, his son, James, was off to Charleston, to have
necessary legislative printing done, while the Doctor was looking
after other important matters and arrangements for rebuilding.
It Might Make a Difference.
During the past year, two former would-be combatants — Col.
Wm. Wallace and Maj. Jas. G. Gibbes — have passed away. Maj.
Gibbes was acting as editor of his father's paper — The South Caro-
linian — during the absence of the old gentleman at the North. The
trouble grew out of a discussion as to the Lunatic Asylum. Dr. D.
H. Trezevant, Sr., and other go-ahead parties wanted either to mod-
ernize the old building or erect new ones, which were greatly needed,
as two additions had been made to the eastern and western ends of
the antiquated home for the insane. A beginning had been made
at the time referred to, as expressed in the Christmas address of the
carrier of the paper :
Nor must the Asylum be forgot,
They have obtained the Taylor lot,
On which the Regents will, they say,
Build something grand for those who pay;
That other nuisance overgrown
Must still send forth its pauper moan, etc.
Andrew Wallace, Esq., was one of the Regents, and in the sharp
discussion of the subject, it was thought that a reflection had been
made on the integrity of those officials through the columns of the
Carolinian. Col. Wallace, in defence of his father's character, chal-
lenged Maj. Gibbes to fight a duel; it was accepted, parties selected,
and Fair Bluff, N. C, chosen as the duelling ground. At the
appointed time, Col. W. and his friends quietly departed by the
public road, and reached the objective point. Maj. G. and his sec-
ond, Capt. Jas. U. Adams, went by railroad train. Sheriff Jesse
E. Dent got wind of the matter, slipped into the wash-room of the
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 21
passenger ear and remained out of sight until Kingville was
reached. As the suspected parties were about to board the Wil-
mington and Manchester cars, which would soon carry them beyond
Sheriff D.'s jurisdiction, he arrested Maj. G. and Capt. A. on a
charge of attempting to violate the laws of the State. Capt. A. was
disposed to resist the arrest, on the ground that their opponents
having avoided the authorities, would meet the appointment, and
it might be a reflection on his principal. But Mr. Flowers, a matter-
of-fact employee of the railroad, said to this gentleman: "Capt.
Jim, you know I think a heap of you, and would do all I could for
you ; but you are kicking against the State of South Carolina.
Sheriff Dent can call on any man to help him carry out the law, and
put you in jail. You better stop right there." Capt. A. reluctantly
yielded to the inevitable, and the train for North Carolina moved
off. Maj. G. was an excellent shot, and during their enforced wait-
ing for the up Charleston train, he exhibited his skill with his pistol
— cutting twigs, penetrating small coins, etc. Mr. Flowers' com-
ment was characteristic of the man: "Maj. Teems, if Capt. Wallace
was in front of you with one of them big-mouthed pistols, do you
think you could shoot as straight as that?" "Perhaps not — I don't
know," was the reply. The unpleasant affair was amicably adjusted
by mutual friends. The Northern papers commented on the aptness
of the name of the proposed fighting ground, "Fair Bluff." But
those who knew the parties were satisfied as to their pluck. The
one was said to be as cool as a cucumber and feared nothing, while
the other, it was charged, would "tackle a buzz-saw." A year or
two ago I met the two to-be duellists in the State House, where they
were engaged in business for the State, and were chatting pleasantly
together ; the old trouble had been forgotten, and rightfully.
Caught Up With a Flighty Husband.
Adjacent to the First Presbyterian Church-yard, known as the
Stanley lot, surrounded by a number of relatives — husband, parents,
child, grand-child, nephews, nieces, and a half-brother — will be
found the grave of Mrs. Mary Hillegas, who in her youthful days
was considered the belle of Columbia, and who exhibited evidences
of her beauty up to the time of her death, December, 1858. The
slab gives her birth-place simply in Virginia, and her age as about
ninety; but as she was the widow of two Revolutionary officers (Dr.
Hendrick and Mr. Howell). I think the date a little short. The
old lady had been married four times — the two parties above men-
tioned and Chestine Williamson and W'illiam Hillegas. The belief
'-'- MEMORABILIA AND
is that she would have taken a fifth helpmate, but being thrown
from her carriage, and meeting with the compound accident of a
broken nose and dislocated collar-bone, she thought her beauty
spoilt, and withdrew from the matrimonial market. Of her first
two husbands I have heard nothing unfavorable ; the third — "Teny"
Williamson, as he was commonly called — spent nearly all of the
rich wife's money that he could get hold of. The square on which
the First Presbyterian Church stands, and considerable adjacent
property, formerly belonged to her ; she retained only the burial
plot.
In a scrap-book prepared in childhood days — which, fortunately,
was not all pasted over — are a number of charges against Chesrine
Williamson for spirits and rubbers at cards, which showed conclu-
sively how the money went. The scrap-book was a ledger used by
the proprietor of Green's Tavern, formerly Rives' — the first erected
in Columbia. There are also charges against William Preston, of
Virginia ; W. Scott, of Virginia, and other parties who have since
gained prominence. The pasting ends about where the charges in
pounds, shillings and pence were being entered in dollars and cents.
Mrs. Williamson was so reduced by her husband's extravagance
that she was compelled to open a boarding house, on the southeast
corner of Taylor and Main streets. The Judges boarded with her,
and so continued up to the time of her retirement. Mr. Williamson
was a "gay boy." On one occasion there was to be a "tony" ball
at the State House, which the couple were to attend. The gay
Lothario thought he could fly around the girls to better advantage
when alone than if accompanied by his handsome wife. So while
the latter was seeing after the removal of the supper things, Mr.
Williamson remarked that he had a slight headache, and if she did
not particularly care, proposed they remain at home. The dutiful
wife promptly acceded to his proposition, and at once gave up all
idea of joining the gay throng. The delighted husband then care-
lessly remarked that while she was clearing up he would walk
around the square and smoke a cigar. An hour passed and he did
not return. In the meantime, David J. McCord, Esq., then a promi-
nent young lawyer, called to pay his respects to the distinguished
legal gentlemen then quartered in the house. Much surprised, he
inquired of Mrs. Williamson as to her absence from the ball. The
reply was, "Mr. Williamson complained of a headache, and we
decided to stay at home." "Headache!" was the surprised exclama-
tion. "Well, he's dancing around with the girls in a lively way.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 23
Suppose you put on your ball attire, and I will accompany you to the
Capitol." "All right," was the response of the slighted wife, and
while Mrs. W. was bedecking herself in her best rig, Mr. McCord
paid his call. They then proceeded to the State House, and about
the first individual to appear before them on their arrival was the
guilty husband, waltzing with a handsome "grass widow." His
excuses availed nothing — the angry wife would have none of him.
She danced with different gentlemen, went to supper with Mr. McC,
who accompanied her home at the proper time, the snubbed husband
following soon after.
Mrs. Williamson was the half-sister of Capt. William B. Stanley,
and this relationship afterwards existed between them : he mar-
ried her grand-daughter, Miss Harriet Zimmerman. It is a little
singular that three important events in the gallant Captain's life
occurred on three adjacent blocks on Bull street: his short married
life, the birth and death of his only child and that of his wife, occur-
red in the house on the southwest corner of Bull and Plain streets
(still standing — the only dwelling which escaped Sherman's burn-
ing on that square) ; the next below, which contains his burial spot,
and the one immediately south of it, where he ended his days — north-
west corner of Gervais and Bull streets.
The fourth husband of our old friend was Mr. William Hillegas,
a happy-go-lucky soul, who occupied his time principally in picking
up bargains at auction. The garret of their residence was filled
with these accumulations — many of them literally useless. On one
occasion, during the temporary absence of the lazy husband, Mrs.
H. packed the stuff off to an auction house, where after a time they
were disposed of in a lump, Mr. H. being the lucky purchaser. The
delighted bargain-seeker told of his fortunate investment, and much
to the disgust of the wife, the garret was soon again filled with the
useless accumulations.
Miss Jane and Her Novel Parasol.
Miss Jane Bryce was one of the salt of the earth, and passed her
time principally in giving poor children an educational start. She
would look up waifs from every section of the town, see that they
were properly dressed, and look after them in her school during the
week as well as Sunday. Miss Jane, and her brother, Robert, were
much attached to one another, and both noted for their eccentricities
and apparent inattention to surroundings. They would frequently
go to and from church together. One morning the brother and
sister became interested in some subject they were discussing, and
2i MEMORABILIA AND
as they were leaving the house, she picked up what she evidently
thought was a parasol, but it proved to be a fly-brush. Holding it
carefully overhead, they walked all the way to church without either
noticing the substituted article. On arriving at their place of wor-
ship, the Methodist Church, an intimate friend inquired whether
flies had become numerous in the sacred edifice. In her rapid wax-
she began to explain the circumstance, but put it on the plea of
interest in the subject they were discussing.
Wouldn't Disturb the Cow.
Cows were formerly allowed to roam at will in the streets, and
they would sometimes recline on the sidewalks. Miss Jane was
homeward bound, saw a cow in the way, and with the idea that she
would not disturb the bovine, attempted to step over. The swish
of the stiffened garments startled Madam Cow, and she hurriedly got
up. giving Miss Jane a ride of a few steps, when the lady fell off,
but, fortunately, not hurting herself. Miss Jane finally removed
to Spartanburg with her brother's family, and died there at a ripe
old age, regretted by her new as well as many old friends.
Had a "Scrap" with a Countryman.
Messrs. P. & R. Bryce, whose well known business house was at
the southwest corner of Richardson and Blanding streets, stood high
in this community and surrounding country — what they said about
their goods (they kept a general stock) could be strictly depended
upon. One day, a slight misunderstanding occurred between Mr.
Peter Bryce and a country customer, and they came to blows. Mr.
Robert Bryce, surprised at the extraordinary affair, rushed forward
to separate the combatants, when the countryman, seeing the ap-
proach of reinforcements, whipped out his knife and prepared to
do battle valiantly. Mr. R. B. had a peculiar lisp or defect in his
voice, and when he spoke rapidly, which he sometimes attempted,
made himself almost unintelligible. On this occasion, seeing the
knife, he called out excitedly, "Let him go. Bud Peter; let him go!
He's got out his knife and is cutting and slashing at a fellow like
a hero!" No blood was spilt, and the clerks soon separated the
combatants.
| Dozi'ned the Post Commandant.
Mr. William G. Simms. the poet and historical story-writer, was
the most genial gentleman I have ever known ( unless I except Gov.
Zeb Vance, of North Carolina). He edited The Phoenix for me,
and was disposed to call a spade by its proper name. I would some-
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 25
times suggest a little toning down of his articles, which would
generally be done. During my absence on one occasion. Mr. S.
ventilated Gen. Hartwell (formerly Colonel of a colored regiment),
who commanded this department, and warmed him up pretty tho-
roughly. A corporal and squad of soldiers waited on Mr. Simms
that day, with a summons to appear at once before the offended
General, at his headquarters, northwest corner Bull and Gervais
streets. Of course, the order was obeyed. Entering the room
where military law was being dispensed, Mr. Simms embraced the
opportunity of a temporary lull in the proceedings, to request to be
allowed to seat himself, as he was well advanced in years ; and he
was permitted so to do — an orderly quietly handing him a chair. His
turn soon came, Mr. G. was placed directly in front of the General,
and the trial began. In a very short time the charge was dismissed,
and Mr. S. was invited to partake of an elegant luncheon in an
adjoining room, which he politely accepted. When Mr. Simms re-
turned to his quarters, it was in Gen. Hartwell's carriage, with a
large basket filled with champagne and canned delicacies. The
General expressed himself to Col. Haughton (of the Ohio Veteran
Volunteers) the next day. to the effect that if Mr. S. was a specimen
of the South Carolina gentleman, he would never enter into a tilt
with one of them again. "He out-talked me, out-drank me, and very
clearly and politely showed me that I lacked proper respect for the
aged." "I told you so/' was Haughton's reply. Gen. Ames, Col.
Haughton, Captains Lockwood, Carlton and other officers were great
admirers of Mr. Simms, and two or three would drop in every day —
ostensibly to read the papers, but really to chat with that delightful
conversationalist.
You Mean My Hair, Sir.
Airs. Margaret Maxwell Martin, wife of the Rev. William Martin,
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, was a talented, genial and highly
appreciated lady. Descendants of the aged couple, who passed away
many years ago, still live in the old homestead, southeast corner
of Blanding and Henderson streets. Mrs. M. had very bright eyes
and beautiful auburn hair, and they were maintained, I believe, to
the end of her long and useful life. In her youthful days, while pay-
ing a visit to Charleston, and as she was stepping into a carriage
on King street, a would-be smartey approached her. raised his hat,
and said, "Will you oblige me by allowing me to ignite my cigar
by the light of your eyes?" "You mean my hair. sir. I suppose?" she
responded sharply, entered the vehicle and was driven off. Mrs.
26 MEMORABILIA AND
M. was the composer of several very touching and pretty pieces of
poetry. "To a Highland Laddie," I distinctly remember — on receipt
of a picture of a Highlander in native costume.
Her eldest son, William, volunteered in the Columbia Artillery,
and it is claimed that his was the first life sacrificed in the service
of his native State — died from a cold contracted on Morris Island.
He inherited his mother's hair, eyes and her poetic inspiration. A
volume of his poems has been published — -the themes being usually
of a lively and amusing character — as the "Under Dog in the Fight."
"Uncle Billy" and the Carrots.
"Uncle" Billy Maybin, as he was familiarly called, was the pro-
prietor of the Congaree House (site of the present Jerome) for a
number of years. The old gentleman would sometimes get a little
too much in the spiritual line, and by attempting to hide it, would
make it the more apparent. His wife, good soul, would make no
reference to his condition, but rather attempt to veil it. He was a
great lover of carrots, and on one occasion they did not suit his
taste ; so he called to Mrs. M., seated at the other end of the long
table, "My dear, when carrots are properly cooked, should they be
as hard as a rock?" "No, Mr. Maybin," was the quiet reply; "they
should be as soft as mush." "Then," replied Uncle Billy, with a
near approach to an oath, "the next time I buy carrots, I'll buy a
carrot cook."
President Polk and the Boots.
The portly gentleman decided to apply for the position of Post-
master of Columbia, made vacant by the death of the venerable Mr.
Benjamin Rawls, and very foolishly sent a pair of boots to Presi-
dent Polk as a present ; evidently possessed with the idea that the
high-minded Tennesseean could be influenced through the medium
of a pair of one-hundred-dollar foot-covers — for that was the
amount paid to Dougal & Young for them. They were beauties.
The present was promptly returned, without any written accompani-
ment, and Major Adney H. Gladden, of then Mexican war reputa-
tion — obtained at Cerro Gordo, Contreras, Cherubusco, Chapultepec,
Garita de Belen and other battles (where the gallant little Major
commanded after the death of Col. P. M. Butler and Lieut. Col. J.
P. Dickinson). It was the storming of the castle of Chapultepec
that won glory for the South Carolina and New York regiments
To travel back to the boots : They met the ignoble fate of being dis-
posed of by raffle ; and, strange to say, Shields Hussey, a dandyish
voung clerk, on the last throw of the dice by eighteen — beating
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 27
seventeen. Col. (then Gen.) Gladden lost his life at Shiloh, where
he remained in command of his forces with a broken arm, until
another bullet deprived him of life. There are many old residents
who remember him, as he used to ride around on his pony with a
huge Mexican saddle, spurs and equipments.
The Alligator Spoke, so Dan Declared.
About this time a monster alligator was wounded and captured
in what was then known as Joyner's Pond, on the Lexington side of
the Congaree River. The saurian was brought to Columbia and
lodged in the lot in rear of Kinsler & McGregor's store, northwest
corner of Main and Taylor streets. The size of the beast was noised
abroad, and several showmen put in an appearance to purchase the
monster, if possible. As the wounds had an ugly appearance, the
would-be-purchasers put off making bids until the result of the inju-
ries could be seen. The 'gator retained his appetite, and it was a
novelty to see one of his keepers raise his upper jaw with an axe-
handle while another would throw a pig or a puppy into the open-
ing, and the jaws would come together with a snap — the half-open
eyes seemed to express gratification. Many useless curs were thus
disposed of, as the small boy was allowed to see the show by bring-
ing a puppy. Xot a sound was heard after the jaws came together.
It died within a fortnight of its capture.
Dan. Tradewell, a would-be Beau Brummel, who enjoyed a joke
heartily, tried the dangerous experiment of "rigging" Uncle Billy.
Hurrying down to the hotel, he found his victim sauntering up and
down the piazza, with his hands under his coat-tails. Dan. excitedly
called out : "Uncle Billy, have you heard the news?" "What news?"
was the instant response; "have I got the appointment?" "Naw,"
replied the joker; "but the alligator's dead." "What do I care about
the alligator?" snarled Uncle Billy. "Well, a wonderful thing oc-
curred just as it was about to draw its last breath — it spoke."
"Stuff!" said Uncle Billy. Dan. persisted in his remarks excitedly
until his listener was forced to make some comment or inquiry as
to the singular event. "Well, what did the d — d brute say?" Dan.
stepped lightly down the steps, and with a merry twinkle in his eyes,
replied : "Just as he drew his last breath, he said distinctly 'Boots !' '
Before the irascible gentleman could get over the intervening space,
Dan. was half a block away — evidently having business elsewhere.
Dan. had trouble with a man named Marshall, and received a
slight bullet wound in the hip. The hole showed conspicuously in
28 MEMORABILIA AND
the ash-colored pants, and he was evidently proud of it, for he wore
those pants until his death.
John ''Dictionary" Brown.
In the old days, we had a well known character — he manufactured
words to suit himself, and was generally known as "John Dictionary
Brown," and his better-half was similarly afflicted. Mr. B. acted
as deputy sheriff for a time, and was entrusted with a warrant for
the arrest of an escaped prisoner. Mr. B. followed his man to a
swamp which was formerly located a few miles below Columbia,
and there lost him. His return on the warrant was, Non comati-
bus in szvampo" — which the lawyers pronounced good dog Latin.
The Resurrection, etc.
"Dictionary" and his good wife had relatives living in Lancaster,
and they determined to pay a visit to that remote section. Seated
in a sulkey, with a favorite servant, Sam, on the floor, his feet swing-
ing, they started on their journey. There were indications of an
insurrection among the slaves soon after their arrival — the threat-
ened trouble, by the way, was fifteen miles off. The visit was cut
short, and the visitors returned home, full of excitement. On their
arrival, Mrs. Brown, in grandiloquent style, gave out the intelli-
gence: "Pappy and me was in fifteen miles of the resurrection; and
if Sam had knowed anything about it, he'd a been in the midst of the
conflabberation !"
Mr. B. had set out a lot of cabbage plants, of which he was very
proud. A heavy frost nipped them. On going through his garden
the next morning, he was completely upset. Returning into the
house, he saluted his wife with the astounding assertion, "Sallie,
take it up one side and down the other, it appears to me as if the
Lord does 'bout as much harm as he does good — every denied one
of my cabbage plants is dead !"
It appears that in those good old days, if a member violated a
church rule unintentionally, his name would be penciled through,
and he would be suspended for six months. In Brother Brown's
case, this rule was carried out to this extent — his name was erased,
but nothing was said to him about it. being regarded merely as a
matter of form. The church book was carelessly left on the desk,
so that any one could read the entries. One Sunday morning, before
service (frequently merely the reading a chapter in the Bible and
a hymn being sung, as there was no regular preacher), Mr. B.
strolled up and turned over the leaves. Presently his eyes flashed,
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 29
and he called out in an excited tone to his wife, "Sallie, I'll be denied
if they aint struck my name off the books — let's go home!" And
off they went, and never returned.
Hyatt's Park— A Retrospect.
Mr. Joseph Newman, a genial gentleman and wonderful inventor,
passed many years of his life, with his family, on the premises now
known as Hyatt's Park. He occupied himself with piano tuning
and repairing — had formerly manufactured these instruments in
Baltimore. He was a hospitable man, and had a hearty welcome for
one and all. Nothing pleased him more than to have a "surprise
party" pay him a visit, and he had a good many, as the "surprisers"
knew they were always welcome. Family prayers were held nightly,
and Mr. N. would sometimes get so warmed up in his appeal to
the Supreme Being that he extended his remarks to an unlimited
length, so that when he got through, and was about to give out a
hymn, there would be no one present to sing ; but, nothing daunted,
he started it up, and immediately the deserters sheepishly came
sidling in. Mr. N. frequently declared that in the course of time a
park, with a fish-pond, etc.. might adorn these grounds, and he hoped
that he would have the means to do it ; but he departed this life
before his ideas could be carried out. A member of his family re-
tains a sketch or plat he prepared of his contemplated park and im-
provements. It is hoped that in the mystical land he will keep
informed of the success of his prognostications. These ideas were
suggested by an occurrence at the park aforesaid recently :
At Hyatt's Park the other night
(Electrics all extinguished),
Persons two feet off, by dim light,
Could scarce he distinguished ;
"When hefore my surprised gaze
Came a form that seem'd human —
I recognized through the haze
My old friend, Joseph Newman —
Who left this world long years ago,
Regretted by old and young;
Better soul ne'er lived, I trow —
One freer from intended wrong.
The features, as in days of yore,
Wore a pleased expression — ■
Ideas he talk'd of years before,
When he was in possession
Of the lovely elevation
Where the Auditorium stands,
And Eau Claire new trolley station,
Besides the adjacent lands,
Which have been put in condition —
Made a large and handsome park,
And a wonderful addition
(By day as well's after dark)
30 MEMORABILIA AND
To attractions for towns near by,
Now brought in close connection
By good dirt roads and "line trolley" —
'Bout this there's no deception.
To see that what he'd prophecied
Away back in the sixties,
Was being fully verified —
One of the occult myst'ries.
And Smith's Branch road, which brought us here
Thro' sand beds and o'er rough hills.
Can now be travers'd without fear
Of break-downs and other ills.
Thanks to wide-'wake Manager Clark
Of the Electric Railway
(At figures, too, not a la shark),
We've vaud'villes at close of day,
And on each Sunday afternoon,
During the swelt'ring weather,
With instruments in perfect tune,
Musicians come together;
Sweet singers, too, of sexes both.
Delight the crowds attending —
Some listen, others pledge their troth,
The music sweetly blending.
At dewy eve they separate,
Each to his home returning;
Doors are closed, not the great gate.
And the 'lectrics are burning.
She Was Satisfied.
Miss Mary Hennessee, who resided with her parents on the north-
east corner of Plain and Assembly streets, a "poetess," as she was
pleased occasionally to designate herself, used to annoy Editor Adam
Summer, of The South Carolinian, with her lucubrations. He gave
the following brief introduction to a "poem :" "Tasso, Burns and
Tustenuggeepokehoko, the big Indian, have each wailed forth their
lamentations. The first to the clear sunny skies of fair Italia ; the
second in commendation of his bonnie Scotland ; the third to the
alligators and pelicans of the everglades of Florida ; but it has re-
mained for Columbia to produce the original and only 'Young Gen-
tleman's Lament:' "
Fair lady, at thy stern request,
I now from thee depart;
But oh, within my anxious breast
There beats an aching heart.
The syren god dealt treach'rously,
Alas, alas, for me;
For, oh, he gave my dearest part
To beauty's fairest, sweetest maid.
Who now holds fast my heart.
And so on for forty or fifty lines. The young lady was nervous
about the reference to the Indian, and came over to give me a blast
about my employer. I listened to her angry words with evident
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. ol
surprise, and when she stopped to get fresh breath. I put in, to the
effect that it was strange that she had never heard of the famous
Tustenuggeepokehoko, the only known poet of the Seminoles, who
had been presented with a blanket and a jug of whiskey for one of
his recent productions — the most valued articles an Indian could
receive. This mollified the lady somewhat, and then the mother
clinched the matter by adding: "Mary, I told you that Julian could
explain it all right to you. Col. Summer thinks too much of your
poetry to fling at you." Miss Mary was satisfied. She was setting
her cap for Dr. H. H. Toland, but the doctor was putting his best
foot foremost to secure the wealthy Widow Brevard, one of the
largest land-holders in Richland District, besides owning a number
of negroes. Somebody joked our poetess about the matter, when
she broke forth with the following :
They tell me he love me, hut how can it lie.
After courting the widow, to think of me;
To think of me who am hut four feet high,
While he is full six feet three.
The doctor pulled up and went to California ; but whether it should
be attributed to making no impression on the heart of the widow,
or Miss Mary's persistent calls upon him professionally for imagi-
nary ills, is a query I cannot answer.
The Caldwell Brothers — Hungry.
John Caldwell, Esq., at one time President of the South Carolina
Railroad and an extensive cotton buyer, was a very matter-of-fact
sort of an individual. On his way home from New York, on one
occasion, he took the steamboat at Baltimore for Norfolk. When
the gong sounded for supper, he overhauled his pockets for the
necessary coin, but it was missing. "Julian," he remarked, in re-
lating the circumstance, "I was hungry." He could have made him-
self known to the officials, but that did not suit his notions of busi-
ness propriety. About that time a gentleman stepped up to him,
and said, "Mr. John Caldwell, of Columbia, S. C. I believe?" "Yes,
sir; what can I do for you?" replied Mr. C. "I have a package of
money for your brother-in-law, Mr. Jonathan Blakeley, and would
be glad if you would deliver it to him. T intended to express it at
Norfolk," said the stranger. "Certainly," was Mr. C.'s response, re-
ceiving the money, examining the contents and giving the necessary
receipt. To use his own expression, "I got to my state-room in a
hurry, j-oon had the necessary money and went to supper."
32 MEMORABILIA AND
Never Saiv my Brother Jack.
Mr. John Caldwell was not noted for beauty, but his integrity and
honesty of purpose could not be doubted. His brother, Robert, was
walking slowly along Main street, one day, when two young women
overtook him. As they passed, one of them, in a pert voice, intended
to be overheard by the gentleman, said, "Mary, there goes the homeli-
est man in town." "Young ladies," quietly answered Mr. Robert,
"you never saw my brother Jack." They were squelched — and
looked it.
Knew How to Utilize His Steps.
Mr. Smith Hoyt, a "down East" carpenter, who lived at the north-
west corner of Richardson and Medium streets (now College), used
his appendages to make correct and simple measurements. Being
called upon to bid for the erection of a building, and arrange as to
the dimensions, he would step here and there, apparently exercising
himself, and by the time his would-be employer had finished his
directions, Hoyt would be ready with the proposition — having
stepped off and found the necessary space to be covered.
Why Not Say Christianized?
Mrs. Stratton and Mrs. Pollock were great friends and fond of
shopping. On one occasion, Mrs. S. priced an article in Nichols'
crockery store, and it being higher than she anticipated, she, without
intending any offense to her female companion, replied, "I'll have
to Jew you, Mr. Nichols." "Wouldn't Christianize have been
equally as appropriate?" inquired Mrs. P. All parties smiled in a
quaint way.
Mrs. M. W. Stratton, of the "Washington House," northeast cor-
ner of Gervais and Assembly streets, wrote poetry and prose,
which was universally read and admired. Her "Shadows on the
Fence" was such a poetical and yet literal delineation of parties, that
they were recognized without further explanation, and furnished
a deal of amusement. "Keep Me Awake, Mother," rated as equal
to its companion piece, "Rock Me to Sleep, Mother," was set to
music by Mr. Joseph Hart Denck, and had a large sale. A volume
of Mrs. Stratton's literary work was about to be published, but
the breaking out of the war caused the matter to drop. She was
a graduate of the famous Barhamville Institute, and although reach-
ing close to the three-score-and-ten era, she was active, and had
never used spectacles, although addicted to reading and writing
until a late hour nightly. She died about twenty years ago, leaving
a large familv.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 33
Mrs. Rebecca Pollock was an English lady of refinement, who
with her husband, Elias Pollock, came to Columbia and located
about 1825. They reared a family of ten children, all of whom
reached the years of maturity and brought up families, but have, with
one exception, since departed this life, and their children have nearly
all gone elsewhere — an apt illustration of "the dispersed of Judah"
idea. A few years ago, in Savannah, Ga., I was recognized by one
of the former servants of the family, who had heard nothing from
his old home in many years. When I gave him the result of death's
doings, he burst into tears, and declared that he wouldn't eat any
supper that night ; but whether from grief or lack of the wherewithal,
I could not tell. A "quarter" caused him to cheer up, however.
Old Rabb — Afraid of Snakes, etc.
Mr. and Mrs. Rabb formerly kept the half-way house between
Columbia and Camden, and the horses for the stages were changed
there. The fare was plain, and some of the passengers used to com-
plain that it was a little too much so. The old lady was always very
apt in her replies about the food — if you had only been here yester-
day, we had such a nice dinner, etc. The old man, in the meantime,
would attack the bacon and collards (which was believed to be the
daily dish), saying that anybody who did not eat collards, didn't
know what was good. Mr. Rabb would come to town occasionally,
ostensibly to sell some of his superabundant sheep or lambs, but
really to impregnate his frame with spirits. His stopping-place was
Hunt's Hotel, and as he told stories credibly, generally met with a
pleasant reception from the boarders and loungers. He was always
the hero — never implicated anybody else. Mr. Rabb was terribly
afraid of snakes. One day he had been working in the field, wear-
ing a pair of old shoes that exposed his great toe. In getting over
the rail fence, carrying a hoe over his shoulder, as he was putting
one leg across, he looked down and saw what he supposed was a
copper-head snake. He hurriedly raised the hoe, struck — and cut
off his great toe. That was the snake he had seen.
The old man dreaded thunder and lightning, and when a storm
came up, he would crawl into a ditch and get under a little bridge
over it. One day he had been imbibing too freely from a bottle
he had carried from town, and he fell asleep. A heavy rain
fell and he was drowned, to all intents and purposes. He was hauled
out. and his wife and two or three darkies rolled and turned his
head down the hill, and finally got five gallons of fluid, by actual
measurement, out of him — so Mr. R. afterwards declared.
3— m
31 MEMORABILIA AND
He Obeyed His Father.
Messrs. Frank and Levi Root came to Columbia from Connecti-
cut, in 1840, and carried on a tinning business for a time. Frank
married Miss Mary Heise, while Levi remained a bachelor. In due
time the married pair had a son, John by name, and a bright lad
he proved to be. When John was about four years of age, he be-
came addicted to straying away from home and spending the day.
His mother punished him, but without avail. Finally she reported
him to his father, who summoned the boy before him, and with a
stern face, ordered him not to leave the premises again without
asking his mother. The next day, John was off once more, and the
disobedience was reported to the father. John was called and
promptly appeared. "What did I tell you about going out?" "You
said, ask your mother." "Well, why didn't you ask her?" "I did.
sir." "Root, he did no such thing," was Mrs. Root's indignant
contradiction. "Yes, ma, I did," was the reply of the youngster.
Light began to break in on the father. "Well, what did she say,
when you asked her?" "She said no," John answered. The pa-
rents were nonplussed. Poor Levi suicided, and Frank died in our
Lunatic Asylum. John lived to manhood — was a rollicking, honest,
hard-working man; served through the Confederate war; moved
West ; returned to his old home on a visit a few years ago, and died
soon afterwards. There were other children. John left a family.
Nat. Joined the Temperance Society.
Nat. Monteith was a good-natured, free-and-easy individual from
boyhood up. He was a great lover of "pot-liquor," and whenever
cabbage would be prepared for dinner, the cook would invariably
call to him when she'd hear his well known footsteps, to come and
get some of the homely beverage. There had been quite a revival
among the advocates of temperance, and a "Cold Water Army."
for the benefit of the boys, had been organized — backed by a barbe-
cue in the Court House grounds, northeast corner Main and Wash-
ington streets. Next day, the cook called to him, that she had his
"pot-liquor" ready. "No, Aunt Jane, can't take it : joined the tem-
perance society." The school-boys got hold of the story ami
attempted to guy Nat., but they soon stopped it — he had a service-
able pair of fists, and would use them.
Nat. volunteered in the War Between the States, and his regiment
was stationed on Morris Island. He obtained a furlough, went
over to Charleston — had a jolly time, and was returning to the island
by the "Caldwell," when he dropped an axe overboard. He at once
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 35
whipped out his knife and commenced to cut a notch in the railing,
and when reprimanded by one of the officers of the boat, curdy
replied, that he was marking the place, so that he could look for it
when he had more time. Poor Xat. lost his life in Virginia.
Had a "Slapdamicus" for Him.
Our old friend. Sheriff Charles Xeuffer. had a warrant for a man.
charged with some trifling offence, who, when he found that officer
was after him, determined to give him a long chase. Both were
mounted, but the offender had the better horse, and kept just far
enough ahead of the officer to annoy him. He took the Garner's
Fern- road, and when Sheriff X. got in calling distance, he would
let off a volley of rough remarks at the discomfited officer. Finally
the}- reached the boundary line between Sumter and Richland, when
the delighted law-breaker drew rein, and addressed the officer as
a "Bull-headed Dutchman," declaring that he was now beyond
his jurisdiction, and dared him to attempt to arrest him. "Guess
not." replied the angry Sheriff; "I've got a 'Slapdamicus' for you,
and you'll come, I bet." "The devil you have," was the surprised
response, and he returned to Richland District, quietly submitting
to service of the warrant. "What's a 'Slapdamicus?'" inquired a
curious individual, who had listened to the Sheriff's account of the
arrest. "D— d if I know," said Sheriff X. "I thought the big word
would scare him into coming back, and I had no more trouble with
him."
Austere Man — Didn't Need the Plates.
The death of Gen. Johnson Hagood was being discussed, when one
of the party said that he was a fine disciplinarian, and a brave, just
man. but rather austere. Air. Constantine, a Greek, who had cooked
for the General on Sullivan's Island, was passing at the time and
overheard the comment. "That is so," he put in ; "the General love
oyster, and I cook 'em for him many time. Sometimes I take too
much spirits, and go to sleep. When the General see me, he say,
'Constantine, stop dat : drink little, but not too much. Go and cook
me some oyster.' and I go. You bet he love "em." There was a
quiet smile, and the ex-cook moved off.
An old sporting man. named Swan, was an admirer of General
Hagood, and placed great reliance on the thorough-breds raised by
that gentleman. Mr. S. had a set of "plates" (thin shoes used on
race-horses) which had carried many an animal to victory. On his
death-bed. he sent the plates to his honored friend, saying he was
36 MEMORABILIA AND
going to a land where they would be no use to him, and he hoped
that they would prove as successful in the General's possession as
they had been in his.
Got Even With Judge Melton.
I was once requested by Judge Samuel W. Melton to testify in
a case he was interested in, and he impressed it on me to testify only
as to what I knew — no hearsay ; I promised that I would do so. I
was subpoenaed, and being put upon the witness stand, the first ques-
tion was: "What is your name?" "I'm called Julian A. Selby."
"What is your name?" repeated Judge M., in an abrupt manner.
"I've answerd your question as near as I can," I responded. "What
is your age?" followed. "I don't know," I quietly replied. "What's
the reason you don't know?" fired Judge M. "Well, I was at the
borning, but was too young to speak knowingly. You particularly
instructed me to testify only as to what I knew of my own know-
ledge, and I shall endeavor to do so. The whole community know
me and the question is superfluous." The Judge was "riled," and
when I came down, said in an undertone, "You think you are
d — d smart?"
Only One Speaker — Maxcey Gregg.
Maxcey Gregg, Esq. (afterwards General) was an ardent Seces-
sionist. Previous to the Convention of 1852, public meetings were
held all over the State, at which prominent orators — Co-operation-
ists and Secessionists — held forth to large audiences. Arrange-
ments were made for an immense demonstration here, in the College
Campus, at which a number of politicians were expected to venti-
late themselves. The day came and so did crowds of people, but
not the speakers. Mr. Gregg, as Chairman of the meeting, exhibited
some uneasiness and annoyance at the non-appearance of the wordy
combatants. With a short apology for the absentees, the Chairman
got up and in a speech of nearly two hours, so enthused his immense
audience that they applauded vociferously, and many rushed upon
the platform to compliment the speaker for his unanswerable re-
marks.
She Could Carry a Fan.
Mrs. Peckham was fond of attending picnics. One very warm
dav, her would-be cynical son-in-law, "Fancy" Bill Brown, finding
she was preparing to go on one of her enjoyable frolics, snarled,
"Mother, I believe if there was a picnic in the bottomless pit. you'd
go." "Certainly, William ; I could carry a fan," she quietly replied.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 37
SOUTH CAROLINA COLLEGE AFFAIRS.
"Old Prex" Wasn't Left.
President Maxcey was termed by the collegians ''Old Prex." Some
of the boys planned to take the family carriage, run it down to
"Turkey Point" (two or three hundred yards below the college,
where chickens, pigs, etc., which happened to get into their posses-
sion, were willingly prepared by one of the college cooks), remove
the wheels and hide all among the scrub oaks, which grew in pro-
fusion in the neighborhood. By some means, "Old Prex" heard of
the affair. A short time before the appointed hour he entered
the carriage house, lowered the long curtains and quietly seated
himself in the vehicle. The boys were on hand soon after and pro-
ceeded to their work. Not a word was uttered until they were some
distance from the walls. Arriving at their destination they were
about to remove the wheels, when, calling them by name, they were
told to return with the vehicle to its proper place. The silence was
profound. The ropes were manned and slowly up the hill the cum-
bersome vehicle was propelled. Of course, the story leaked out,
but the boys were not reprimanded. They had been punished suffi-
ciently.
Junior Class Tricks.
Professor Brumby, who was a Professor in the College towards
the close of the forties, got into trouble with the Junior Class, which
was adjusted in a day or two. The young men of the class with-
drew in a body, and the night of the day in which the affair occurred,
they paraded the streets singing:
Old Brumby said to go,
But it was no use, you know,
For Junior Class rose at las'
And swore they would not go.
Xot much in the way of rhythm or rhyme, but it accomplished
the purpose. The Professor, as I understand, was popular with
the class.
The Class Was Democratic.
Dr. Priestly Cooper was an eccentric but very talented Professor
in the College, and his recitations were heard in the third story of
the building, directly opposite the Chapel. His class conceived the
brilliant idea of playing a joke on the worthy gentleman, and so they
procured a venerable goat and strapped him in the Professor's chair,
where, with spectacles on nose and an open book before him, he
presented a very dignified appearance. Dr. Cooper came in smiling
38 MEMORABILIA AND
pleasantly and nodding to the assemblage. Seeing the goat, he
turned coolly around and with the remark, "Young gentlemen, get-
ting democratic in your ideas, elevating one of your number to the
chair. I'll leave you together," and soberly marched out, locking
the door behind him. The door was an extra heavy one and the
lock in good condition, and the jokers were left in confinement until
late in the afternoon.
The Famous Students' Rozc.
About 1854, a party of students connected with the South Caro-
lina College got into trouble with the city police, and several were
arrested, but through the intervention of the Faculty were released.
Young Albert Rhett was the principal in the affair, backed by his
brother John (afterwards Mayor of the city). The South Caro-
linian office was located on Washington street, near Sumter, and
there was an open lot on the east side. The students wer.e in the
habit of promenading up and down Main street in parties of three
and four, during the afternoons and evenings ; but, much to my
surprise, the promenaders were out in full force that morning, going
up Sumter street. After seeing so many passing at that unusual
hour, and apparently very quiet, I suspected the cause — that they
were collecting in the upper part of the city and intended making
a descent on the guard house and police in force. I immediately
notified the officials, but not a minute too soon, for in a short time
large numbers attacked the police, and Chief John Burdell w r as
badly beaten, but stood his ground, the policemen present aiding him.
Chief Burdell seized a gun and kept the party at bay, and the alarm
bell was rung. Sheriff Jesse E. Dent arrived promptly and the
posse comitatus was summoned and at once supplied with muskets
loaded with a ball and three buckshot — an upper room in the build-
ing being an armory. The belligerent students hurriedly retired,
but soon returned — evidently they had gone to the campus to pro-
cure their guns (as the young men had a well drilled and equipped
military company) ; but the college officials had taken the precaution
to secure and remove the weapons to a safe place. Nothing daunted,
the boys yelled "College !" and their ranks were materially aug-
mented ; but when they found several hundred armed citizens, ex-
tending from Plain street down Main and around into Washington,
they were taken completely aback, and they confined themselves to
the east side, while the posse stood ready for orders on the west.
Influential citizens and professors from the college mingled in the
crowd of excited students and attempted to calm them ; while others
. ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 39
begged the Sheriff to restrain his force. His simple reply was, the
men will not lire until I order them to do so, and that will not be
done unless we are attacked. The rioters were finally induced to
return to the college walls. Their spirits seemed completely broken,
when they found citizens in such numbers prepared to enforce the
law. Sheriff Dent appeared as cool as the proverbial cucumber.
The military companies were under arms all night and ununiformed
soldiers patrolled the streets, while the Columbia Flying Artillery
(their pieces loaded with trace-trains, ready to clear the streets, if
necessary), quartered silently and in darkness in their gun-shed
until daylight the next morning. The Rhetts and a number of
other students left the college, the afternoon promenades up and
down Main street were discontinued, the military company (College
Cadets) was disbanded, and so the affair ended, much to the grati-
fication of all parties. There had been serious trouble with these
young men once or twice before, but armed citizens had not been
called out ; many of our people were much incensed, and expres-
sions of a determination to put an end to these troubles had been
freely expressed.
Headed off the Professor of Greek.
Col. Chris. Suber, of Newberry, was not a great lover of study —
of Greek, more particularly. When the time for his graduation
rolled around, he felt that his chances for obtaining a diploma would
be terribly slim, on account of his deficiency in the ancient language
above referred to. After due deliberation, he decided to go to Prof.
Henry, the Professor of Greek, throw himself on his mercy, and
persuade him to allow the backward one take the first hundred words
in the Greek lesson, study them carefully, and thus be enabled to
get through. The old gentleman was very indignant at the pro-
posal, and refused in the nearest approach to anger that the good
soul could possibly exhibit. Suber retired, but a lucky idea struck
him. Perhaps the Professor would call on him to begin with the
second hundred. With his usual dependence upon luck, he studied
and learned the second hundred. On examination day, as he had
hoped. Professor Henry called on him for the second hundred, which
he got through without a break, and was highly complimented by
the gratified Professor.
Reasonable Objection.
At a fire in New Dublin (the site of Parker's Hall, and some
distance to the north), occupied mostly by Irish families, several
houses had been destroyed, when it was suggested by Prof. Twiss
40 MEMORABILIA AND
to blow up with gun-powder one or two small building's to the south,
in an attempt to stop the spread of the flames in that direction. It
was done and the fire was stopped. But in the blowing up Prof.
T. and another one of the Professors were elevated but not seriously
hurt. A countryman, who had a son in attendance in the college,
was highly indignant and declared that his son should no longer go
to a college where the teachers could not take care of themselves.
No explanation would suffice, and the boy was withdrawn.
Took Salt in His Tea.
A plucky old farmer from the upper part of the State paid a
visit to his son at the South Carolina College, and took supper with
him in the Steward's Hall. The salt was in a peculiarly shaped
vessel, and he put several spoonfuls of it in his tea. Some of the
boys in his vicinity snickered, but Mr. Farmer paid no attention
to them, saw he had blundered and determined to get ahead of them.
He drank his tea, called for another cup. salted it, and calmly swal-
lowed it. The boys were nonplussed and couldn't hold in. "Put
salt in your tea, sir?" asked one of the more inquisitive ones.
''Always do." was the reply. He didn't like the idea of his son
being guyed.
Long Enough Before I Get Another.
Professor M. J. Williams was crossing the campus one day, when
he met Chris. Suber carelessly decked in an unusually short dressing
gown. "Why, Suber, your gown is too short," said the critical
Professor. "Long enough before I get another," was the drawling
response. This so amused the old gentleman, that he hurried home
to tell the joke to his family. Entering the reception room with
a broad grin on his face, he blurted out: "I didn't know Suber was
such a witty fellow. I met him on the campus just now, and com-
mented on an unusually short morning gown which he had on. His
reply was, 'that it will be some time before I get another' " —
bursting out into a laugh. The others did not change countenance ;
so the Professor saw that he had made a mistake somewhere.
"Well, it sounded very funny just now."
Not Satisfied with his Resting Plaee.
A party of students sauntering through old Potter's Field many
years ago came across the grave of one of their number who was
interred in 1815. It was decided to remove him and reinter in
Elmwood Cemeterv. It was done.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 41
TRUTH STRANGER THAN FICTION.
Peculiar Occurrences in this Vicinity.
That truth is strange — at times stranger than fiction — I am pre-
pared to demonstrate by several incidents, or accidents, which have
occurred in this city and neighborhood. We read frequently of the
happening of singular events, and the assertion is not uncommon,
"Oh! that is impossible." "That is simply fiction." etc. A perusal
of the following paragraphs, which can be relied upon for their
correctness, will prove the assertion above made as strictly true :
The Same Name.
About twenty-five years ago there was a double christening in the
Presbyterian Church of this city (now known as the First Church),
Rev. Dr. Bryson, pastor. One infant was handed to the clergyman,
and he proceeded with the ceremony, to the intense chagrin of the
other parents, who attempted to stop Dr. B., but he continued:
"Samuel Buchanan, I baptize thee in the name," etc., and returned
the newly-named babe to the nurse — much to the amusement of the
friends of the other youngster, who, of course, supposed there was
a blunder. Dr. Bryson then took No. 2, and began. "Samuel Bu-
chanan." etc. The two children, unknown to the parents (who
were only slightly acquainted), were furnished with similar names —
the one for a relative of Mrs. Love residing in New York, and the
other for a former friend of the McMaster's, residing in Fairfield.
They were the children, respectively, of Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Love
and Col. and Mrs. F. \Y. McMaster. The boys are alive and well.
but only one of the parents survives — Mrs. Love.
Strange Fatality.
Capt. Tom O'Sullivan, a Federal soldier, who fought through the
Civil War, settled in Columbia in the early seventies. After a short
time he was appointed a mail agent on the Greenville and Columbia
Railroad, and made many friends, old and young, by his kindness
and geniality — in fact, was almost universally called "Uncle Tom,"
especially by the children. He attended to his official duties care-
fully, and would pass out mail matter at points along the road away
from a post office : distribute papers in sparsely settled neighbor-
hoods, etc. He seemed particularly gratified when able to accom-
modate any one — acquaintance or stranger. At Belton, on one oc-
casion, where the railroad to Anderson and YValhalla connects with
the main line (Anderson being the end of his run). Captain O'S.
42 MEMORABILIA AND
was requested to stop for the night, and be present at a frolic to be
given there. He declined, as he had to come out the next morning
with his mail from Anderson. His friends insisted, asserting that a
special was to pass some hours later, and he could go through on
that, or that he should be carried up in a buggy, if the special failed.
He still declined, when several of his friends by main force detained
him, and the train rolled off without the mail agent. Broadawav
Creek, a dangerous stream at times, ordinarily only a few feet wide,
suddenly arose, washed away the trestle or bridge, the train was sub-
merged and all on board were drowned. Capt. O'Sullivan lost his
position some time afterward, returned to Columbia and worked
successfully several months at his trade — watch and clock repairing.
One night as he was leaving Heitsch's restaurant, a pistol shot was
fired, and the Captain fell dead — a bullet ranging upwards through
his heart. A colored man who held the weapon was arrested, but
persisted in the assertion that the weapon exploded accidentally, and
was pointing downwards. A careful examination of the pavement
showed that the ball struck, glanced upwards, and killed the unfor-
tunate man. The suspected man was released.
A tragic affair of a similar nature occurred to a colored man
named Goodwin. As he was attempting to escape from a police-
man, opposite the post office, the officer pointed his pistol towards
the ground and fired, in order to frighten the prisoner : but the bullet
struck the pavement, glanced, hit the fleeing man and killed him.
A coroner's jury exonerated the officer, as it was a clear case of acci-
dental homicide.
Teachers in the Old Homestead.
For many vears, beginning in the early forties, what is known as
the Hampton Mansion was occupied by Gen. John S. Preston and
his family. A life-long intimacy existed between the eldest daugh-
ter. Miss Mary (afterwards Mrs. John T. Darby), and Miss Isabel
Martin, the daughter of highly esteemed neighbors, and the two
were nearly inseparable — in fact, the mansion was almost the home
of the neighbor friend. At the close of the war. Gen. Preston
decided to go abroad and reside with his family — he really feared
confiscation of his valuable property. After a several years resi-
dence and travel in Europe, the Prestons returned to America. Dr.
and Mrs. Darby located in New York, where the doctor built up a
lucrative practice, and was also chosen professor in a prominent
medical college. l>lood poisoning from a careless operation caused
his death, and his wife and children returned to Columbia. In the
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 43
meantime, the homestead had changed hands several times — being
first occupied by the notorious Governor Franklin J. Moses, then by
the Rev. Mr. Dodge and family, then by the Catholics as a Nunnery,
and was finally purchased by the Presbyterians, and converted into a
Female College.
Gen. Preston's property disappeared ; he and his wife died, and
his daughter, Mrs. Darby, and her friend, Miss I. D. Martin, took
positions in the old homestead as teachers. Who will say that Co-
lumbia cannot furnish wonderful changes and peculiar circum-
stances ?
"A Slick Duck"— IV. IV. Walker. Jr.
We had a young man here in the fifties who was troubled with the
"drop of the eyes" — couldn't look you straight in the face— Wm. W.
Walker, Jr. He was connected with the Washington Street Church
and led the choir for a time. He was looked upon as studious, reli-
giously inclined, and some even thought he was quietly preparing
for the ministry. His father was of the well known firm of Stephen-
son & Walker, merchant tailors. About 1855, an advertisement ap-
peared in the London Times, and in the New York Times, notifying
William W. Walker. Jr., that he had fallen heir to a large estate in
England. Some of us could not understand how a younger son
could inherit over an elder brother ; this Willie explained after a
fashion, but not altogether satisfactory. Papers were soon after-
wards received from England bearing a number of crown-covered
seals, etc. On the faith of this apparently official evidence. Walker
raised money without difficulty — a firm of private bankers in
Charleston advanced him something over $1,000, while smaller
amounts were obtained from different parties. Various excuses
were given as to why he did not go across the water and get posses-
sion of his inheritance, until the money-lenders began to get suspici-
ous and the trap was sprung. Willie was the Secretary and Trea-
surer of the Athenaeum, a reading room which had been started
through the liberality of Hon. Wm. C. Preston, who donated his
valuable library to it. aided by other citizens who contributed until
there was quite a respectable display of books. The whole of the
second story of the brick building on the southeast corner of Main
and Washington street -< | now occupied by the Skyscraper) was se-
cured for library and exhibition purposes — the hall on the left and
the library on the right as you entered. Everything was moving
along satisfactorily, and additions of books and manuscripts were
being constantly made by purchase and donation. Mr. John M.
■ii MEMORABILIA AND
Allen, one of the Directors, whose store was in the first story (Allen
& Phillips), was informed by the out-door Clerk of the Branch
Bank, Mr. "Mark" Brown, that the Athenaeum funds had been
removed from that depository, and the officers were curious as to
the cause. Mr. Brown was informed that he knew nothing about
the matter, but would inquire. Mr. A. immediately went up stairs
to communicate with the Treasurer, who expressed surprise at this
information, and said it was altogether a mistake. Picking up his
hat. Walker suggested that Mr. Allen should accompany him to
the bank and have an explanation from the officials as to the matter.
This he declined to do, saying it was unnecessary : Walker insisted.
and Mr. A. finally declared that he didn't care anything about the
matter; that Walker could make it all right. This was Saturday
morning, and Mr. A. thought nothing more of the affair. On Mon-
day the Athenaeum rooms were not opened, and inquirers at
Walker's house were informed that he had not been seen since
Saturday noon. The funds had been removed from the bank, but
found lodgment in Walker's pockets. Nothing more was seen of
the delinquent. It was found upon investigation that a man had
been sent to London, who by some means had gotten hold of neces-
sary legal papers, forms, etc., and shrewdly worked up a very
plausible story and exhibit — publishing the advertisements before
referred to. Walker, the scheming thief, had been paying attention
to a young lady from Charleston, and one day took her out for a
drive. Being unskilled in the management of a horse, he succeeded
in throwing her out of the vehicle, and she was made a cripple for
life.
History of a Household — The Neuffer Family.
An old and tried friend was Mr. Charles Neuffer, a well known
German citizen, who was the Sheriff of the District for several
terms. His first wife, Miss Sarah Geiger. died, and left him with
three children — Harman, Charles and Sallie. He some years after-
wards married another Miss Geiger. of Lexington, a relative of his
first wife. About the time the parties were to have been married, the
prospective bride had a dangerous attack of fever, during which at
times her mind was somewhat affected. In one of these spells she
seriously lacerated her throat. She finally recovered and ever after-
wards wore a high collar, to hide the scar in her neck. Soon after
their marriage the old-fashioned residence, with a piazza extending
the entire length, on the east side of Sumter street, between Gervais
and Lady, was purchased and the family occupied it — the elderly
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 45
mother of the bride accompanying them. Two children — Adam and
Dorothy — were born to the Neuffers.and the two sets of children ap-
peared to get along remarkably well. Harman and Charles, Jr. —
two bright and popular young men — went into the army. Harman
died, and his remains were brought to Columbia for interment.
(The father had procured a sutler's position so as to be near his
boys.) Charles, Jr., disappeared at Gettysburg, and Sam Bunch, a
comrade, claimed that he knew that he was killed and could find the
body ; but he was unsuccessful in his search. The health of the
father soon gave way — he contracted a terrible cold, which, with the
death of two of his sons, carried him off. His mother-in-law, Mrs.
Geiger, died soon after, followed by her grand-daughter, Dorothy,
from diphtheria. Adam, the son by the second wife, who had vol-
unteered and was doing duty on the coast, was killed at Adams Run.
The slaves (and they had a large number) were emancipated; then
followed Sherman's uncalled for work, and the family residence was
destroyed. The widow was left an orphan in every sense of the
word — father, mother, husband, children, and property being taken
from her. She succeeded in raising money enough to build a two-
room shelter on the site of the homestead, where, assisted by friends,
and materially aided by faithful servants, who were quartered on the
opposite side of the street, she eked out an existence for ten years.
Two brothers living in Alabama, ,who were said to be in rather
straitened circumstances, offered to take care of the bereaved widow
if she would come to them. This she peremptorily refused to do,
and she died on the loved spot. The only child (Sallie) of the two
sets, married Mr. James Kenneth, a former resident of the city, and
removed to St. Louis, Mo., where they were still living at last ac-
counts. This is literally the "History of a Household."
Mr. Charles Neuffer was the nephew of Mr. John Neuffer, an
aged butcher, who formerly lived on the northeast corner of Main
and Blanding streets. At his death his widow and three children — ■
Caroline, John and Charles — removed to Columbus, Ga. Caroline
married a Beech, and died, leaving children ; John was drowned ;
Charles was killed in Virginia. A brother of Mr. Charles Neuffer,
Gaudaloupe, married and lived in Orangeburg, where he left de-
scendants.
Lived Two Hours with a JJ r oitiid in the Heart.
John Sloan, a respectably-connected young man from the up-
country, got into a difficulty with J. M. Sharpe, of this District, in
the basement saloon of D. Caldwell's Hotel, during which Sloan was
46 MEMORABILIA AND
stabbed in the heart, causing a wound nearly an inch long. The
weapon, so witnesses testified, was a pocket knife ; but the surgeons
who held the post mortem examination, declared that it was impossi-
ble for such a wound to have been made with such an instrument.
As soon as possible after the cutting (or stab) Sloan was conducted
to Dr. A. W. Kennedy's office, directly opposite, the blood spurting
in jets. The doctor informed the injured man that he was mor-
tally wounded and could live but a few minutes "That's hard," was
the sad reply. Leaning on the arm of a friend, Sloan walked to his
room in the rear of the hotel, and lay down on his bed. Much to
the surprise of attending physicians, the poor fellow lived nearly two
hours. His heart was afterwards removed and put into a large-
mouthed bottle filled with alcohol, and was kept in Dr. R. W. Gibbes'
office. The alcohol finally evaporated and the heart had to be buried.
The case was commented on by a number of medical journals — some
expressing doubt as to the correctness of the statement. Sharpe
was acquitted. He was defended by Capt. James D. Tradewell and
F. J. Moses, Esq. (afterwards Chief Justice of the Supreme Court).
Solicitor Simeon Fair prosecuted the case.
Singular Circumstances.
A few years ago, while visiting the Government Medical Museum,
in Washington, with a lady who was interested in medicine and sur-
gery, one of the attendants called attention to a number of specimens
of wounds, contained in jars — some of them of the heart. I told
him that South Carolina was in the lead, and described as well as I
could John Sloan's case : but he evidently thought I was mistaken.
In the course of our peregrinations, we came to a leg which was
pretty well jagged, and he remarked that the owner was still alive.
In reply to a question as to who the party was, he smiled and said it
was No. 700. A little later he added, apologetically, that the owner
of the leg was known to me, perhaps — that it was Gen. Daniel E.
Sickles. "Yes," I replied, "he was once head of the military divi-
sion of South Carolina." I had seen him several times in Charles-
ton. ( An Irishman who had been too severely punished, as he
thought, for some offense, when informed who his judge was, turned
and hurled the sneering remark at the officer: "I'm not surprised at
anything you do — you are the man who killed his best friend" —
referring to Philip Barton Key). That evening — a rainy, sleety
one — while coming out of the waiting room at the Pennsylvania
depot, I came up with an elderly gentleman on crutches. I assisted
him down the steps, with the excuse that they were damp and slip-
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 4?
perv. When we reached the pavement, the one-legged man turned
and abruptly said, "Thank you." Although he had aged consider-
ably, I thought I recognized him as Gen. Sickles. Turning to a
reverend-looking colored man just behind, I asked if that was Gen.
Sickles? "That's Daniel," he replied.
Silent Clock Struck i — Sick Man Died.
Mr. William Hillegas died at a late hour of the night. On the
mantelpiece in his bed-room stood an old time-piece which had not
been running for nearly twenty years. As the hour of 1 came
around, the dumb clock pealed one. The sick man was aroused by
the singular occurrence ; said it was a bad sign for him, and soon
after gave up the ghost.
Light Went Out. so Did a Life.
Another instance of what proved to be a forerunner of death oc-
curs to me. Willie DeBruhl, the only son of Air. Jessie DeBruhl
by his first wife, while shooting bull-bats, received a load of small
shot in the head from a gun in the hands of a young man named
Bird, a very gentlemanly appearing stranger. ( Air. B. introduced
fancily painted oil-cloth table covers here — something new.) It was
clearly an accident, but poor Bird was completely broken down by it.
I was present when the shooting occurred. We were boarding at
the time at the Globe Hotel, kept by Air. William Reeder and his
wife, where the post office now stands. Fearful of worrying young
DeBruhl's relatives by his appearing at the house, he engaged me to
go twice a day to inquire about the wounded youngster. The patient
seemed to be doing very well, although the physicians could see no
hopes for his recovery. This was in the oil lamp days. One night
while the solitary lamp in the sick room was apparently burning all
right, it suddenly went out. Young DeBruhl noticed it, turned to
his mother and said quietly, "I know what that sign means — good-
bye," and died before the lamp could be relighted. Dr. Samuel Fair,
of Xewberry, who had graduated in Paris and lately begun the prac-
tice of medicine in Columbfa. attended the young man, and after-
wards married his sister. The grave is unmarked in the Presby-
terian Church-yard.
Life is Truly Uncertain.
About 1853, a ruddy-complected, stout-built Irishman. Alike
Hogan by name, married the eldest daughter of Air. William Beard.
The bride was delicate, and many individuals prophesied a short
matrimonial career. Thev had one daughter. Alarie. Soon after
•i8 MEMORABILIA AND
the birth of the child, the hearty-appearing father was taken off bv
typhoid fever. The child grew to womanhood, and married Paul
Joyner, a counterpart in looks and size of the wife and father. A
child was born to them. After several years, Mrs. J. and the child
died. Paul afterwards married a woman from the West, through
a matrimonial agency. He went to meet his expected bride at the
train, rushed in on the arrival of the cars, and the first female he
saw, embraced and kissed her. "Is this Dr. S.?" said the stranger.
"No, I'm Mr. Joyner." A scream followed and then an explanation.
The proper individual was discovered, and in due time the parties
were married. In a year or two the Westerner tired of her husband,
and a peculiar death resulted — and some folks were cruel enough
to suspect the woman, but there was no investigation. The delicate
wife lived to see hearty individuals taken away many years before
her call came.
Lost Family of Five Children in Five Weeks.
Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Squier, kind-hearted, religious, charitable
people, had an unusually sad experience with their children. Dur-
ing the absence of the father on business at the North (he was a
clothing and furniture dealer, as well as undertaker), the baby died
of scarlet fever. As the absent parent was daily expected to reach
home, the corpse was kept unburied for several days. The other
children contracted the disease, and the following Sunday two were
buried ; the Sunday after, the last two — five in all — who attended
the double funeral the week before, were laid to rest. A family of
five children carried off in five weeks. In years following they were
blessed with five more little ones, but sudden death carried off three
of them — one was killed by the falling of a wall at the burning of
Gregg's Hall, southwest corner Main and Taylor streets, while two
others died from different causes.
A Chapter of Accidents.
A well known citizen and church member has been unusually
unfortunate. While cutting the root of a bamboo brier (famous
for walking canes), his knife slipped and penetrated the brain of a
young comrade, killing him instantly. In Fort Moultrie, at the
beginning of the war, he and a youthful soldier were handling a
revolver, when the weapon was accidentally discharged and the
youngster was killed. Several years ago, while in a store, there was
an explosion which demolished the window glasses, and slightly hurt
several clerks. The supposition is that fire from his cigar must
AXIXDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 49
by some means have been communicated to a can of gunpowder
with the result mentioned. Soon after that, while cleaning his gun
on a hunting frolic, accompanied by an elderly man, he filled "the
barrel with hot water and gave it a shake. The gun proved to be
loaded; was accidentally discharged, and the water and other con-
tents passed a short distance above his companion's head, who took
his equipments and went home. Our friend certainly has a touch of
Murad the I nlucky" in his composition. It is to be hoped that he
has passed the line, and will now have better luck.
Cases Somewhat like Baby Farming.
Columbia can "keep up with the procession" in a variety of ways
-not alone m improvements. Jack, the well known blind boy 'is
one of the instances referred to. The young child of a mother', a
little oft color, died, and as there was another infant that parties
desired looked after, he was substituted for the dead one— not ex-
actly as m the case of baby farming recorded in "Pinafore " The
child's eyes were neglected, opthalmia resulted, and the unfortunate
creature is hopelessly blind. The parties interested in trying to hide
the parentage of the innocent little being, overshot the mark The
nurse was cornered, questioned as to the substitution, got very angry
"shot off her mouth," and gave the name of the mother Other
proof obtained settled the matter so clearly, that it is o- e nerallv
given up that the child is pure white.
The two foundlings discovered the same night— one at the door
of Lee Roberts and the other at Dad Wadlow's— were accidentally
changed. The one bore such a resemblance to the mother that manv
recognized her; while the other was furnished with a letter— "not to
be opened until you are of age"— which properly belonged to the
first. The one married. 'and is believed to be. living in New York-
while the other married and died here.
Two Similar Sums.
Two or three years after the close of the war, Mrs Thos P
\A alker, widow of the elder brother of William W. Walker a de-
faulter, received a notification from a courtly official in Connecticut
that by death of W. W. Walker, a resident of that town, Thos p'
Y\ alker was entitled to a legacy of seventeen hundred and some odd
dollars. The same mail brought a notice from the Census Bureau in
W ashington, that the claim of Thos. P. Walker, for services in
taking the census in Richland District, S. C, in 1860, had been
favorably acted upon, and the money, seventeen and some hundred
4 — m
50 MEMORABILIA AND
dollars, was subject to his order. The cash in both cases was re-
ceived in due time. Two similar sums of money from different
sources to be notified about the same day, was certainly singular.
But truth, etc., you know.
Terrible Night — Stopped the Clock.
Dick W. was a genial, witty individual, devoted to his business
during the day, but addicted to night drinking and eating eggs as a
strengthener. Scientists claim that a superabundance of egg food
affects the brain. A dozen and on one occasion a dozen and a half
eggs, Dick had been known to consume at a sitting. He made
threats about committing suicide on several occasions, but never
treated his wife badly except on one memorable occasion. He came
home one night, in a nervous and apparently unhappy frame of mind.
After making an attempt at eating supper, he seated himself quietly
before the fire-place. His wife joined him soon afterwards, with a
bit of needle-work in her hands. In a few minutes, Dick looked up
at the clock, and remarked in an audible, steady tone of voice, that
when the hands of the clock on the mantel-piece pointed to 12, he
intended to kill her, the children and himself, producing a six-shooter
pistol ; that he had been robbed of everything he had in the world,
and he would not leave his family to starve after he was gone. Just
then the dog in the yard began to bark savagely. "There," was the
comment, "some scoundrel is trying to rob us of the little we have."
With that he got up and went out into the yard, carrying his pistol
with him. The long-headed, thoughtful wife immediately raised up
and stopped the clock. One would have supposed that she rushed
into the street and called for help. But no. The loaded weapon in
the desperate man's hands made her aware of the danger of such a
proceeding — he could kill the children and himself before help could
be obtained. Dick, on his return, seated himself and occasionally
looked up at the clock — fully impressed with his murderous idea,
but not noticing that the time-keeper was not recording the weary
hours. Daylight finally appeared, when the partially sobered man
took a final look at the clock and said, "My dear, it's daylight: see
about my breakfast. I must get to the gallery." And yet the hair
of the faithful wife was not "turned white in a single night," as
might have been surmised. Poor Dick suicided soon afterwards,
and the terrible story related above was told by the afflicted widow
at the coroner's inquest. The verdict of the jury was that the act
had been committed while the deceased was temporarily insane. The
life insurance was paid without serious objection by the company.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 51
ECCENTRIC CHARACTERS.
Shivernell, Johnston, MclVhirter and Others.
Henry Shivernell was one of that class. On his tramps he wore
an old-fashioned beaver that looked as if it had passed through
several St. Patrick's celebrations. He thought nothing of a walk
from Columbia to Charleston and back, when he got an industrial
fit, and printing was at a low ebb here, or fish didn't bite satisfac-
torily. His wife generally put a shirt in his hat, and off he would
start on his 110 mile walk. Stopping at a branch which crosses the
main road about six miles out of the old city (near the supposed site
of Fisher slaughter-house of eighty years ago), would wash his soiled
garment, spread it on the grass to dry, eat his lunch, take a short nap,
put the cleansed garment in the '"tile," and then complete his jour-
ney. He decided finally to take a trip to New York, using his
natural propellers. Arriving in Trenton, N. J., he secured tempo-
rary employment. After working two weeks and no money forth-
coming, "Shove" whipped the proprietor, knocked his type into pi,
and continued his march to Gotham ; but he remained there only a
short time, giving as an excuse that it "was too far to the woods,"
and he couldn't fish in the new-fangled style. He packed his hat
and returned to Columbia by his line — not by stealing railroad rides.
"Shove" went to Mexico as a volunteer. While crossing the Gulf
of Mexico, he got into a difficulty with one of his officers, knocked
him down, and when an attempt was made to arrest him, jumped
overboard and struck out — where he didn't know. He was rescued,
but the officer declined to press the matter. He had been presented
with a Bible (as were all the company) by Dr. Benj. M. Palmer; he
put the good book in an inner pocket, and thought no more of it.
At the Churubusco fight, a bullet struck him and penetrated the
Bible more than half through. His comment was that he always
heard the good book "was a means of saving grace" — it certainly
saved "Shove." On his return he got control of "The Lighthouse,"
northeast corner of Gervais and Lincoln streets — recently removed
by the Seaboard Railroad authorities — where he dispensed fluids
and manipulated "short cards."
A "Stiff Dummy."
Mrs. Sarah Brown, a woman connected with a good family in
Camden, whose husband was postmaster in that town, and was killed
in a difficulty with Dick Brunson, removed to Columbia, with her
young son, John, and opened a house of questionable reputation on
52 MEMORABILIA AND
Gervais street (now occupied by the Murray Drug Co.) John died,,
and "Shove" had the corpse carried to his saloon, where he was
"laid out" up stairs. The three sitters-up got tired of talking, and
a game of "dummy" whist was proposed, "Shove" agreeing to take
the corpse as his partner. The novelty of the idea pleased the other
spiritualists. Brown's stiffening body was strapped in a chair, and
the game proceeded. Luck ran against the corpse-partner, when
"Shove" slapped it, and used strong language about his being "no
good." The ex-soldier was really a kind-hearted man, but famous
for his out-of-the way proceedings.
fishing First, Work Afterwards.
"Shove" was a great fisherman, as was his employer, Mr. Albert
Sidney Johnston, for whom our former park was named. Employed
and employer would take a notion to go fishing, when hurried
work was on hand, and even take the colored pressman, Peter,
along — to get bait, prepare the tackle and look after lunch. The
foreman would be horrified, but Mr. J. was boss. Mr. Johnston's
sole reply would be : "Monsieur, work can wait, but Shivernell can-
not; and I require a little recreation."
Wonderful Pumpkins in Virginia.
My first recollection of Mr. Johnston was the wonderful stories
he would tell about Virginia. "Lightwood Knot Springs" was a
sort of resort for Columbians. It was run by Mr. Stephen Smith
and his wife. The springs are still there — a few miles from town,
on the now Charlotte, Columbia and Augusta Railroad — but the
cottages have disappeared. Mr. Johnston was a young man at the
time and newly arrived from Virginia ; ran a printing office, and
in connection with Mr. DuBose, of Fairfield, published The Tele-
scope. One of his stories impressed me as something truly wonder-
ful. It was to this effect : His father had a brood sow of fine stock,
which suddenly disappeared. Search was made for her, and finally
thev found an immense pumpkin vine growing on the banks of a
creek running through his farm. The vine was of unusual size
and extended across the creek aforesaid — so large, in fact, that
Mr. Johnston, Sr., had no trouble in using it as a bridge. He crossed
and after a walk of several hundred yards, came to an immense
pumpkin ; hearing grunting and similar noises, he walked around
the monster vegetable, and there, comfortably ensconsed within its
shell, was his lost hog and thirteen pigs. The animal had eaten
the inside and left the shell onlv.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 53
Doctors No Good, Mr. Lindfors Thought.
Mr. C. J. Lindfors and his clerk, Diedrick, occupied rooms adja-
cent to Mr. Johnston, on Stanley's alley, on the site of the Bryan
Printing Co. Mr. L. had an ugly wound on the leg, caused by a
"snag," and Dr. Fair had given him directions as to a peculiar poul-
tice to be applied to the wound when he was ready for bed. Died-
rick and Mr. L. were celebrating some German festival, and
evidently got a little mixed when putting on the medicament. In
the morning, Mr. Lindfors "raised Cain" and aroused the neighbor-
ing sleepers — declared doctors were no good, and that instead of
the poultice helping his wounded leg, it had made the other sore.
Mr. Johnston, attracted by the unusual noise, dressed and visited
his neighbor's room, and made the discovery that the preparation
intended to relieve the bad leg had been put on the good one. Mr.
Johnston, as was his inevitable custom, put his hands under his coat-
tails and stalked out. Mr. Lindfors calmed down.
"Up in a Balloon."
Bob McWhirter was a noted "sport" and all-around good fellow,
who made Columbia his headquarters for a time during the fifties.
One day, in company with a number of friends, he was boasting of
what he could do, and the fun-loving butcher, Mr. Nathaniel Pope,
offered to bet him a race-horse against $3 that he wouldn't go up
in a balloon. A hot-air aeronaut, Wells, was to make an ascension
next day, from the hill on which the upper reservoir is now located,
on the southeast corner of Richland and Gates streets. An arrange-
ment was made with Wells, and McWhirter prepared himself for
his dangerous feat by getting "full." He contracted to distribute
a lot of circulars during his flight ; but as the smoky vessel shot
upward, a rope caught, the basket tilted, and McWhirter had to
hold on like grim death — the circulars were distributed without
trouble. The amateur aeronaut ascended somewhat intoxicated, but
when he came down he was thoroughly sobered. The balloon
lodged in a tree in the cemetery, and McWhirter reached terra finna
unhurt. Mr. Pope's comment on the fool-hardy exploit was: "Mc-
Whirter, you're a d — d — er fool than I thought you were; come and
get the horse." The winner magnanimously returned the animal
for $25.
When the war came on, McWhirter volunteered in Capt. Tom
Taylor's troop of mounted men. His "green cloth" and his famous
horse, "Gimlet," were well known. While on a scout with Capt.
54 MEMORABILIA AND
James McFee, their little squad rode out into the "open," and half
a mile off loomed up a regiment of Federal mounted men. The
order was quietly given to retire ; they soon heard the yells of the
pursuers, and then it was "every man for himself." Mc.'s horse
was not equal to the emergency, and was soon left behind. "Good-
bye, Cads ; Gimlet's give out !" yelled Mc., and was soon overhauled.
He made two attempts to escape and nearly reached Richmond, but
was recaptured. I heard nothing more of him until some years
after the close of the war, when in Charlotte, N. C, I recognized
him, and inquired "if he was not the man who went up in a balloon
from Columbia, S. C, about 1857?" "Yes," was the reply. "Come
here and tell these d — d cusses about it — they don't believe me."
I satisfied them by my account of the affair, which highly gratified
the hero of the event.
Mr. Mc. changed his green cloth to Lancaster, S. C. He had as
a servant a colored boy whom he thoroughly relied upon ; but the
temptation of a fancy pair of pants, with $300 in the pocket, was
too much for the "brother," and he skipped, but was soon after-
wards caught and imprisoned. McWhirter was furious at the loss
of his pants, didn't care a cuss about the money, as he could get
more, and vowed vengeance against the criminal : but when the poor
fellow promised never to steal again, Mc. restored him to his good
graces, after exploding a few strong epithets, and giving as an
excuse for his leniency, "That all men would steal if they got a
chance, and the scads were big in amount." Mc. died a few years
ago in Lancaster.
Wore One Pair Wedding Gloves Thrice.
My old friend, Mrs. Jane Reeder, was married three times —
Charles Oliver, William C. Reeder and Dr. Thompson, of Atlanta,
Ga. • It is of the last marriage I propose to speak. It was a terribly
cold night. The ceremony was performed at the residence of Mrs.
M. W. Stratton, a cousin, on the northeast corner of Gervais and
Assembly streets. The bride was arrayed in full dress, with low
neck and short sleeves. The groom wore a suit of Kentucky jeans,
a pair of brown woolen gloves covering his hands. After the con-
clusion of the ceremony, and while the assembled friends were play-
ing the agreeable, the Doctor blurted out, "My dear, I can say what
vou can't — these gloves," holding up his hands, "have performed
the same duty twice before." Imagine the feelings of the hand-
somely attired bride. The groom was noted for his carelessness in
dress.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 55
The third Mrs. Thompson only lived about three years. Dr. T.
married again. Years afterwards I met the old gentleman in the
lobby of the Kimball House, of which he was the principal owner.
I did not recognize him, but heard some one address me by name ;
he came forward and saluted me, saying, pleasantly, that my not
recognizing him was due to his change of style of dress — or his
"good clothes," as he expressed it. Wife No. 4 looked after his
apparel, and cured him thoroughly of his careless habits. He was
decked in a broadcloth suit, and there were no tobacco stains around
the corners of his mouth.
Dr. Thompson owned a large amount of land in the then village
of Atlanta, and held on to it, until he realized excellent prices. He
was the proprietor of the first hotel erected there — the Trout House,
the eating place for railroad passengers for many years entering
the "Gate City," as it was soon dubbed. One day, a traveler had
eaten dinner, and stopped to pay for the satisfactory meal. "Land-
lord," he said, pleasantly, "what do you charge for dinner?" "We
charge one dollar ; but cash fifty cents," was the reply of Boniface.
"Well, charge it, then," and he sauntered out. The account is still
open. "I never jested with passengers after that," added the ex-
landlord.
Landlord and Yellow Fever Guest.
Mr. A. M. Hunt, of the United States Hotel, located on the south-
east corner of Main and Lady streets, was a landlord of the old
Virginia style — everything clean and comfortable, and food well
prepared. His good wife aided him materially. A guest was
strictly a guest, was the old gentleman's idea, sick or well. During
a yellow fever epidemic in Charleston, a stranger came up and
quartered with Mr. Hunt. He was taken ill that night, and his
physician pronounced it yellow fever. The case was reported to
the Board of Health, and those officials ordered the patient removed
to quarters which would be prepared for him. This Mr. H. refused
to allow, saying the man was his guest, and would stay where he
was until he got well or died. The Town Council was called to-
gether and issued a peremptory order of removal. In the meantime,
Mr. Hunt had loaded his double-barreled gun with buck-shot, and
stationed himself at the sick man's door. Beverly Nash, his major
donio, was sent into the room to nurse the patient. The officials
soon arrived and gave the orders of the Council ; to which Mr. Hunt
replied, there was no danger, as yellow fever could not live here.
The officers insisted — saying their orders were peremptory. Mr.
56 MEMORABILIA AND
H. replied, that there were thirty buck-shot in each harrel ( patting
his fowling-piece), and the first man who attempted to interfere
with anybody in his house, would get one or both. He was then
informed that all his boarders would leave if the fever patient re-
mained. The reply was, that they could leave and be d — d. The
sober second-thought, backed up by the gun, prevailed. The guests
decided, that if the landlord was not afraid of the contagion, they
shouldn't be, and none left. The patient recovered. The affair
occurred when I was quite a youngster ; so, to be sure that I was
correct in my recollection, I asked Xash about it. He said, in reply,
that he was scared nearly to death and thought of jumping out of
the window ; but he knew old marster's disposition, and that shot
could fly faster than he could jump, so he remained.
It is due to Beverly Nash to say that he assisted in the support
of Mrs. Hunt during the balance of her life. He didn't "hanker
after" old marster, however.
Recognizing a Peculiar Habit.
John Robinson, the veteran showman, put in an appearance here
a few months before his death, and made inquiries about numbers
of his old acquaintances. The name of a hotel man he could not
recollect, but got up from his chair, and stepped around rapidly,
looking at the ceiling. I understood at once, and replied, "Mr.
Davis Caldwell." "That's it; how did you guess?" he queried. It
was Mr. Caldwell's habit when trying to sneeze to run out and
look at the sun. It made no difference whether engaged in conver-
sation or whatever he might be doing, he must have his sneeze.
Knew the Lord's Prayer.
"Dad" Wadlow was a good-hearted, all-around Baltimore sport-
ing man, who would take chances on anything — from a fly alighting
on a lump of sugar to a little pair of deuces at poker. "Dad"
claimed to have been brought up by religious parents, and that he
was a regular attendant at Sunday School. ' "Bet you $5 that you
can't say the Lord's Prayer," was the reply of a listener. "Now
I lay me down to sleep," began the witty man. "Here's your
money," replied his opponent; "but I'll get even with you." He
would divide his last dollar with a distressed individual. A great
friend of his (Lou. C), a fellow-sport, died, and "Dad" wrote a
letter, directed to his Satanic Majesty, and put it in the dead man's
hands, placed a similar direction on the ace of spades and nailed
it to the coffin. And vet he was not of a heartless nature by any
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 57
means, but only wanted to put on a dare-devil air. The Lord's
Prayer story may have originated elsewhere, but "Dad" certainly
got it off and pocketed the money. Like a joke attributed to Mr.
James L. Petigru, who replied in his squeaky voice, ''Sheridan was
credited with that joke a hundred years ago, and it was believed
that he stole it."
Editorials — Lengthy vs. Short.
Mr. Samuel Weir established and edited The Chronicle, and he
made it warm for parties who opposed him. Col. A. H. Pemberton,
of 71ic South Carolinian, would occasionally have a spat with Mr.
Weir. At one time they went into personalities. Mr. W. and his
wife did not agree and she left him and returned to her Pennsyl-
vania home, leaving her two children — George and Catharine — here.
Mr. P. and his mother disagreed, and she returned to her old home.
Col. P. would publish an editorial of from one to three columns
in length, while Mr. Weir could ventilate any subject in from twenty
to fifty lines — seldom more. Col. P., in one of his lengthy articles,
charged Mr. W. with whipping his wife and running her off. Mr.
W. replied in a few terse lines, to the effect that it was bad for a
man to whip his wife, and some parties might believe the false re-
port ; but if it was bad to beat a wife, how much worse was it to
whip the mother that bore you, and throw her into a well. As soon
as he read this article. Col. P. grasped a cowhide and limped down
to the office of the offender ; but friends of the parties were on hand
and prevented any belligerent act. The breach was patched up —
Mr. W. saying he rather thought one report was about as true as
the other. Occasionally The Chronicle editor would meet with a
Roland, who would match his Oliver ; but didn't hesitate to publish
these communications, even though some of them were caustic. An
opponent ventured into doggerel to this effect :
Then Weir and his d — d Chronicle
May go to Texas or to Hell.
Mr. W. had a deep bass voice — which would have called for a
rasp to smooth it down, while his daughter. Miss Kitty, sang re-
markably sweet. Mr. W. was a great temperance man, and at-
tended the meetings of the "Total Abstinence Society" regularly.
They adopted the plan of having certain speakers, and after these
"regulars" had finished, volunteers could ventilate themselves, while
the officials would pass through the room — Carolina Hall — and
obtain signatures to the pledge. The subject of a choir was dis-
cussed several times, but no definite action was taken. One night.
58 MEMORABILIA AXD
during a lull in the proceedings, a loud voice, aided by a pretty
sounding soprano, "Oh, Come, Come, Away," etc., was heard. The
choir was organized before the next meeting. This youngster was
invited to join the choir, but without practice; he made only one
appearance — was never asked to come again.
Drew the Line at Unnecessary Articles.
Air. O. Z. Bates was very methodical in all his actions. At 12
o'clock he would go to dinner, and some of his neighbors declared
that they could tell midday better through Mr. Bates than bv re-
ferring to the clock. He made it a point to give credit to any indi-
vidual who showed a disposition to work and meet his obligations,
but surprised one of his debtors on one occasion. Christmas was
approaching, and the man was having an order put up. He men-
tioned nutmegs. "Can't have that." exclaimed Mr. Bates: "I prom-
ised to furnish you with necessary supplies ; nutmegs are not neces-
sary." The nonplussed countryman explained that he only wanted
flavoring for his Christmas Cake. "No," said the grocer; "I won't
credit you for such useless articles, but I'll give you enough to flavor
your cake." This he did.
Woe-betide the individual who attempted to inquire into his
affairs, or to question any of his proceedings — they would get more
than they bargained for. "Well." was his favorite expression — a
sort of starter for any question that he felt disposed to talk about.
Air. Bates filled the position of Warden of the town for several
terms ; he was also Treasurer of Elmwood Cemetery for a number
of years. He was truly an honest man — acting on the "square,"
in all of his undertakings. Two of his boys served through the war.
Ben kept his old uniform, and would proudly show several bullet-
holes in the garments. He soon followed his father to the grave.
Fell From Grace — Havis Gladden.
Rev. Manning Brown, an earnest and successful evangelist (who
died several years ago in the lunatic asylum, from an overworked
brain and religious excitement), was doing very efficient work in
Columbia and elsewhere. Among his converts was Air. Havis Glad-
den (a brother of the gallant General), a firm believer in the adage,
"Have all the amusement you can in this world." Air. G. kept up
well for several months ; he would talk earnestly on religion, and for
the time avoided "stimulants." There came an unusually cold spell,
and Fisher's Pond (then a respectably-sized body of water) was
frozen over. A number of individuals went down to trv their luck
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 59
at sliding, and a few to exhibit their skill in skating. A party of
friends met Mr. G. and invited him to join them. He willingly
consented. On passing "Johnny Stork's" comfortable little saloon,
it was proposed to go in and partake of a hot punch. The proposi-
tion was acceded to, and, of course, several drinks followed — the
hot spirits and the nipping weather having a bad effect on Mr. G.,
causing him to forget his good resolutions. Arriving at the pond,
the fun immediately commenced, and several slip-ups were re-
corded — some even breaking through the thin ice near the middle.
Mr. G. could not resist the temptation of a trial of the exciting
sport, and ventured on the ice, carefully at first ; but, gaining con-
fidence, he made a strike-out, his feet flew from under him, down he
came, and struck his head and the back of his neck on the unyield-
ing ice. As soon as he recovered from the effects of the jar, he
raised himself to a half-sitting position, and slowly muttered,
"Haven't I played the devil ; fell from grace and broke my d — d
neck." He never fully recovered from the effects of the fall.
Not Such Seats as These.
Many old residents will remember Mrs. Peckham (nee Beard),
a former resident of Columbia, who would "touch the beam at 300
pounds." On the occasion of a trip to the flowery land many years
ago, as she was getting in the stage to go from Micanopy to Alli-
gator, one of the passengers was Hon. Dixon H. Lewis, member of
Congress from Alabama, who weighed nearly 450 pounds (when he
attempted to take his place among the nation's law-makers, it was
found that no chair would hold him, so one had to be built expressly
for his use) ; some one called out, "Seats for nine." "But not such
seats as these," replied Mrs. P., looking at Mr. Lewis pleasantly.
Three to a seat was the stage allowance.
Wouldn't Stand Him Off.
Mr. John O'Hanlon was a "sport" of the old style. He owned a
livery stable, was a great lover of horses, would bet on anything,-
and was hard to beat in a horse trade. One day he was riding
slowly along Main street on his favorite mare, and a little loaded
spiritually. A friend hailed him, with an inquiry as to the price
of the animal he bestrode. "$275," was the prompt answer. "I'll
give you $75," replied the inquirer, in a bantering tone. "She's
yours," said Mr. O'H. ; "I never let $200 stand me off in a horse
trade," as he threw his leg over the saddle. "Three fingers" settled
the matter satisfactorily.
GO MEMORABILIA AND
MEXICAN VOLUNTEERS.
Necessary to Hold Up His Trousers.
Pat Leonard, a gallant Irishman, served faithfully in the Mexican
war, and was severely wounded. In one of the battles — Contreras,
I believe — several flag-carriers were shot down, and finally the staff
was broken short off, and the flag partially torn away. Pat seized
the colors, tied them around his waist, and carried them in that
position through the fight. He was wounded severely in the hip,
which caused him to limp for the rest of his days. He died on
Sullivan's Island, and his remains were interred in the sand there.
At a reception, barbecue and presentation to the returned Mexican
volunteers on the campus of the South Carolina College, John S.
Preston, Esq., was the orator of the day. Many individuals were
called upon and made short responses, Pat Leonard among them.
Pat got up, smiling pleasantly as he looked around upon the immense
assemblage gathered to do them honor ; then picking up Mr. Pres-
ton's hat, which stood near, said: "My friends, I'm not much on
speaking; but I'll tell you what I'll do — I'll hold the hat of the finest
gentleman and the best speaker in South Carolina, while he talks
for me a little." He was loudly applauded and Mr. Preston re-
sponded very aptly, during which he referred in complimentary and
deserving words to the bravery of the Irishman, and the tying the
colors around his waist as a last resort. "Whist, your Honor." was
the reply of the bashful Irishman to this statement : "it was to hold
up my breeches." Which, of course, brought thunders of applause,
and Pat disappeared.
Swords Not Received.
It was at this reception that swords with silver scabbards were
to be presented to the officers of the regiment, while the privates
were to receive silver medals. The privates obtained their medals,
but the officers, with the exception of four ( Major Move, of Chester,
being one), never received their swords. The four referred to were
obtained from Messrs. Glaze & Radcliffe to be used for presentation
purposes ; but the last four to receive the swords construed lite-
rally and retained possession. The jewelers were paid for the four
presentation weapons ; but as to the others, I never could get at the
reason of the failure to comply with the Act of the Legislature.
Gen. Shields' Szuord with Gold Scabbard.
The handsome blade, with a gold scabbard, presented by this State
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 61
to Gen. Shields, in whose brigade the Palmetto Regiment fought
gallantly in the war with Mexico, is exhibited in its handsome case
in the government museum in Washington. Gen. Shields compli-
mented them highly for their bravery — particularly the storming of
the Castle of Chapultepec. Some of the soldiers who fought under
Gen. S. in Mexico, fought against him in the "War Between the
States," and it is said the General greatly regretted it. Gen. S. was
shot through the body in one of the Mexican battles, but was satis-
factorily attended by a Mexican surgeon.
"Who Kapes the Kayesf"
A good-natured Irishman, "Sugaroo" Kelly, was an excellent
soldier in Mexico unless he got hold of pulque. He was captured
by the Mexicans, but his eccentric actions caused them to think he
was crazy and they released him. On his return to Columbia, at
the close of the hostilities, he met with a warm reception, went to
his home and attempted to make up for lost time, but it was a vain
effort. His regular rig was a blue suit of ancient style, but his hat
was a curiosity — it certainly belonged to a long past age. "Sug."
rode a mule that evidently knew how to balance his master, as the
old man was never landed on the ground. Mr. D. Caldwell had
given him an invitation^ to stop at his hotel whenever he was in
town — for really "Sug." was a drawing card; his witty sayings were
proverbial and a crowd was generally on hand when he was known
to be there. He misbehaved in the dining room one day, Mr. C.
thought, and he quietly walked the offender out. "Sug." returned,
closed the door between the dining room and the office, but without
putting down the bolt, turned and pocketed the key, then going
around by an open window on the north side of the building he
shook the key, and called out, "Mr. Davis Caldwell, you're a very
foine man, but I'd like to know who kapes the kayes?" mounted his
mule and started for home — never appearing in Columbia again, as
he was carried off by fever in a few days.
Consumption Cured — Dr. Barkuloo.
A young man, named Barkuloo, apparently far gone in consump-
tion, volunteered in Capt. Wm. D. DeSaussure's company to help
clean out the Mexicans. Objection was made to receiving the deli-
cate man. but Capt. D. said the climate might benefit him, and he
would make him his clerk. Mr. B. shouldered his musket several
times, and performed his duty on the field of battle. At Churubusco,
he was struck in the chest with a copper shot and severely wounded.
02 MEMORABILIA AND
A captured Mexican surgeon undertook to look after the wounded
man. Pus exuded from the wound in the chest — the breast-bone
was stove in — and the surgeon thought he must have been wounded
the day before and mortification had set in; but on examination of
the parts found the lungs in bad condition. The wound was at
once looked after, the lung cleaned thoroughly, necessary ointment
applied, and in a few weeks the soldier was a well man. He re-
turned to Columbia, married a daughter of Mr. Stephen DeBruhl.
formed a copartnership in the drug business with Dr. Boatwright,
and remained here until the death of his wife, when he located in
Macon, Ga., and lived in his Georgia home for a number of years.
Mexican War Survivors — Who will Get the i'asef
The possession of the famous Jackson silver vase will, doubtless,
soon be decided. Gen. Andrew Jackson presented a gold snuff box to
the State of New York, to be awarded to the soldier from that State
who should prove to be the bravest man in a war with any foreign
power; while to the State of South Carolina (his place of birth)
was awarded a handsome silver vase, with similar directions. The
vase was left in the hands of Capt. W. B. Stanley for a number of
vears. Finally, at a meeting of the Mexican veterans, it was decided
to put the vase in charge of the State officials, to be held temporarily,
then turned over to the last survivor, as an heir-loom. There are
but few of the vets. left. Major J. D. Blanding. of Sumter; Mr.
Orlando Levy, of Charleston, and Mr. Spencer Percival, of Rich-
land, are all that I can hear of.
From Columbia, S. C, to Savauuali, Ga.
We are all delighted at the success of our steamboat line to
Georgetown. It is not known by many of our citizens, that up to
fifty vears ago we had regular communication between Columbia and
Charleston, and in an emergency the run could be extended to Sa-
vannah, 'Ga. Capt. B. T. Elmore, with his company of one hundred
men, left this town in 1836, on the steamer James S. Boatwright, and
went through to that favored Georgia city. The soldiers volunteered
for three months service to help clean out Oceola, Billy Bowlegs and
their Seminole braves. Oceola was captured through an improper
use of the flag of truce, carried to Fort Moultrie and there impris-
oned, where he starved himself to death, and the slab over his grave
is still to be seen outside the walls of the fort, with the simple in-
scription, "Oceola, Chief and Warrior." There are none of the sur-
vivors of the Florida campaign left.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 63
TRAGICAL AFFAIRS.
Three Murderers Hanged at Once.
My first recollection of the terrible was the hanging of three
negroes, belonging to Col. John Singleton, for the murder of the
overseer, McCaskill. Colored people could go anywhere at that
time, when accompanied by a white child, and as there were several
young women servants at Mrs. Hillegas', where we boarded, I was
much sought after — my mother never dreamed of where I was
often carried. On the occasion above referred to, one of them
offered to take me, and I immediately agreed. The place of execution
was an open lot on the southwest corner of Gervais and Lincoln
streets. The next affair of the kind was the execution of a white
man, named Adams, for the brutal murder of a Mrs. McEvoy, an
illicit liquor seller, on Boundary street, near Elmwood avenue.
Sanders Died "Game."
I have seen a good many individuals depart by the "rope route,"
but Arthur Sanders, a young soldier, said to be from Virginia, who
killed the notorious "Dutch Rose," on southwest corner of Gates
and Lady streets, displayed more "nerve" than I have ever witnessed.
His victim was choked, but lingered several days, unable to articu-
late. The other females in the house gave a description of the sus-
pected part}-, and he was traced to and captured in Montgomery.
Ala., while attempting to run the blockade to New Orleans. It is
not believed that Sanders intended murder, but only robbery, as it
was known that "Dutch" had valuable jewelry, and it was thought
that she had money. On arriving at the place of execution (the
open square south of the South Carolina College, now used as base-
ball grounds), the only request that the condemned man made was
for Sheriff Dent to delay the execution until the last minute possible,
during which time he sat in the carriage chatting pleasantly with
the officers and newspaper men — who did not give an account of the
execution, by special request, neither before nor after the event.
Not so particular now-a-days. The only evidence of any special
interest was the repeated turning of the head in the direction of the
Governor's residence, as he knew that an appeal numerously signed
had been presented for Executive clemency. But Gov. M. L. Bon-
ham paid no attention to the paper, and the law properly took its
course. Sanders walked up the steps to the gallows with a priest
on either side, but the slight physical aid they furnished seemed
01 MEMORABILIA AND
unneeded. As the black cap was drawn over his face, he deliberately
said, "Lord Jesus, receive my soul," and died without apparent
movement. It was a terribly hot day, and several of Capt. R. D.
Senn's men were overcome by the heat. Before the trial and con-
viction, Sanders implicated several men, but afterwards withdrew
all these charges. One of the parties, Arthur Dabney, was so
alarmed that he hurriedly went to Virginia. He reached Petersburg
Wednesday evening, went to the front at once, and was killed next
day by the premature discharge of a gun. And thus was the begin-
ning of a series of tragedies which followed this robbing event.
Sanders' body was carried to St. Peter's Catholic Church, where
it remained until the next day — the coffin open and several "Sisters"
in attendance, and visited by hundreds of the curious. It was then
deposited in the church-yard adjacent, where it remained undis-
turbed for twenty-four hours. A foolish report was circulated to
the effect that Sanders was not dead, and a committee of prominent
citizens waited upon the Governor and requested him to issue an
order for the remains to be disinterred, which was done, and on
Sunday morning, against the earnest protest of the church officials,
the grave was opened and the body examined. There was no doubt
but that the criminal was dead. The head was terribly swollen and
the face almost black, but the identification was satisfactory.
Wholesale Robbery Attempted.
Circumstances connected with the robbery and murder of "Dutch
Rose" are known to a few parties still living, but they are of such
a nature, so extended and so beyond ordinary belief, that they would
form a story of themselves, and would be termed exaggerations.
Robbery wholesale in its character was to have been carried out, but
somebody "squealed," and most of the parties escaped harm at the
time. All of those implicated came to untimely ends — the innocent
as well as the guilty. Ned Beraghi was known to carry on his per-
son a considerable amount in specie ; but he received a hint, and "hid
out," and so foiled the would-be robbers. Ned was afterwards
killed in his saloon, northeast corner of Lady and Assembly streets.
Two were killed in Columbia.
Knife and Cage Rake.
A bloody affair occurred one night at a menagerie where the
Nunnery now stands. The theatre building stood nearly a hundred
feet from Plain street, and the authorities allowed a temporary use
of a part of the street. An Irishman, named Lynch, was killed
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 65
within a few feet of where I sat with my colored protector. It
seems that two young men of good families had left their seats for
a short time, and Lynch sat down in one of the vacant places. When
the parties returned, the seat was claimed and refused, when words
occurred and Lynch knocked them both down. As soon as they
regained their feet, one of them picked up a cage-rake and struck
the unfortunate man in the head with it, while the other stabbed
him with a knife. I remember the terror of the crowd, the roaring
of the animals, excited by the smell of blood, and the speedy exit
of all parties from the tent. I was mounted on the shoulders of
some one, who was afraid I would be trampled upon in the wild
rush for a place of safety — some foolish creature shouting that "the
lion had got out." The coroner's jury rendered a verdict that either
of the wounds would have caused death. One of the murderers got
away and has never been brought to trial, but the other was ac-
quitted. Col. Wm. C. Preston defended him, and in one of his
magnificent perorations, waving his arms above his head, knocked
his wig off; it was picked up immediately and stuck back again, but
"hind part before." There did not seem to be a titter in the audi-
ence — they were so fearful that it might attract the attention of the
gifted orator, and cause a break in his wonderful argument. D. J.
McCord, Esq., as the speaker sat down, said, "William, your wig
is awry." "Thank you," was the quiet reply, and the covering was
properly adjusted.
Although acquitted, the conscience of the murderer troubled him,
and it is said that he never passed an entire night in bed, but wan-
dered restlessly about the house — getting the most of his necessary
sleep after daylight. I know of other similar cases. The poor
mother was delighted at her son's release : but is credited with the
frequent use of the quotation : "The mother of the murdered sleepeth,
but the mother of the murderer' sleepeth not."
Governor Out of Reach.
A man under the influence of liquor refused to leave a saloon,
and the police were called in to put him out, or lock him up if he
resisted. He attempted to defend himself and threatened to kill his
would-be arresters. The officers persisted and he shot and killed
one of them, Tom Cross. At the trial, it was charged that the kill-
ing of Cross was on account of an old grudge. The prisoner was
convicted and sentenced to be hung. Dr. Wm. Reynolds, an old
citizen and a level-headed man. had his doubts as to the justice of
the sentence, and in pursuing his investigations, was assured by
5 — M
66 MEMORABILIA AND
Policeman Starling that he did not believe the prisoner intended to
shoot Cross ; that he had powder marks on his face, which showed
conclusively to his mind that he only meant to resist what he thought
was an unjust arrest. Dr. R. made a thorough and rapid investiga-
tion into the circumstances, and feeling satisfied that an unjust pun-
ishment was to be inflicted, rushed to the Governor's office to lay
the matter before his Excellency ; but Gov. R. F. W. Allston had
gone to his plantation, sixteen miles from Georgetown, and the exe-
cution was to be the next day. The South Carolina Railroad au-
thorities offered to furnish a fast train to Charleston, but it would
have been impossible to reach Georgetown by steamboat and then
get over the sixteen miles to the Governor's plantation. The pri-
soner was hanged the next day, and a sensational scene occurred ; the
rope broke, and the poor fellow fell to the ground, breaking his back
by striking the supporting bar ; he was lifted up, only feebly resist-
ing, and swung off again — this time successfully. The screams and
groans of the colored witnesses were terrible to hear. Gov. Allston
on his return was made acquainted with the circumstances, and inti-
mated that he would certainly have interfered with the carrying
out of the execution. He further declared that he would never
again absent himself from the Executive office, or be out of reach
of communication. Previous to Radical reign, the Governor could
not leave the State without permission of the Legislature. Governor
A. was within the borders of the State, but a messenger could not
have reached him under twelve or fourteen hours. How railroads
and telegraph wires have annihilated time.
Murder, Not Suicide.
About twenty-five years ago, the community was horrified at the
reported suicide of a young man, son of an old and highly-respected
citizen. He had been seen the night before about twelve o'clock in
apparent good spirits. The next morning, a laborer going to work
at an early hour, found the body on the side of the path near the
river. The body was lying on the left side, and a pistol, with one
barrel discharged, held in the right hand. An inquest was held,
the body was examined and a bullet through the brain was found
to be the cause of death. The verdict of the jury was suicide. A
skillful detective, who was engaged in State service, took an interest
in the affair, and made inquiries into the matter. He found that
there were no powder-burns on hair or face, and the range of the
bullet showed that the weapon could not have been held in such a
wav as to inflict such a wound without powder-burns ; that a person
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 67
instantly killed would fall flat, the muscles relaxing, and it would
be physically impossible to retain the position in which the body was
found. The doctor was informed of the circumstances, and was so
impressed with the proof which the detective advanced, that he ex-
claimed, "The d — d rascal is right; I'll have the jury recalled and a
proper verdict rendered ; I did nothing but report the range of the
bullet." The doctor and the detective were at "daggers' points,"
but that didn't prevent the good soul listening to reason. The family
objected to reopening the matter. The detective went on a quiet
hunt, and secured evidence to prove conclusively that the unfortu-
nate young man had been treacherously shot by a soldier.
Was it Providential Punishment.'
Bryant Bailey, a sporting man, who also kept a livery stable on the
west side Sumter, near Blanding street, while on his way home, a
mile or two in the country, on the Smith's Branch road, was mur-
dered one night in 1872. It was known that he had won a consider-
able sum of money at cards that night, and he was believed to have
it on his person. When the body was examined, the next day, it
was discovered that his watch and whatever money he had in pos-
session, had disappeared. His waiting man. Bob Cooper, was sus-
pected of the crime, and was tried but acquitted. Some time after-
wards Bob was stricken with paralysis, and could get along with the
greatest difficulty. One of his colored friends, Nancy Pickett, took
care of him until his death. Bob used to be a very dressy man — a
regular dude. Some of the colored people gravely shook their heads,
and said it was Bailey bewitching him. The matter was brought
up recently, through some inquiries relative to another party with
a similar name.
Forced Into a Duel.
During the Adams-Preston political campaign, in 1854, Dr. Ray,
a wealthy physician and planter residing in the "Fork," got involved
with Mr. Peter Gaffnev, a slave owner and planter, but a man below
him in social standing, who seemed disposed under any circumstances
to force Dr. R. to meet him on the duelling field. The doctor could
not get out of the affair honorably, as he conceived, so he accepted
the challenge. The place selected was about seventeen miles below
Columbia, on the left hand side of the McCord's Ferry road. The
antagonists were promptly on hand, with their friends, and were
soon placed in position. At the word, both parties fired, Dr. R.'s
bullet cutting Mr. G.'s shoulder slightly, while his went wide of its
intended mark. Dr. R.'s second then inquired if the other party
68 MEMORABILIA AND
was satisfied. "No," was the reply of Mr. G. "I came here to fight,
and. by God, I'm going to fight." The weapons were reloaded, the
combatants took their places and the discharges seemed simultane-
ous, although it is claimed that Mr. G.'s weapon missed fire; and he
fell dead — shot through the heart. It was one of the most exciting
political contests which ever occurred in Richland District. The
nearest approach to it being the "Bank" and "Ami" of six years
before, when the slogan was :
There's the Bank discussion —
Anti's are done brown.
Fraudulent and Fatal Building.
"Parker Block," as it is called, on the west side of Main street,
near Gervais, is one of the most famous, or ///famous buildings in the
city. It was intended to call it "Parker's Hall:" but an unrecon-
structed citizen said in the hearing of the thieving State Treasurer,
that it would be properly named, provided the latter word was spelt
haul. Parker changed his mind. It has been used for a variety
of purposes — theatre, gambling house, barroom, with ten-pin alley
and billiard table accompaniments. It was occupied several years
by the Agricultural Commissioner. It finally got out of the hands
of the State through manipulation of the famous Blue Ridge scrip,
which the United States Supreme Court finally pronounced fraudu-
lent. Immorality and crime of nearly every kind was practiced
there at different times. Tom Dent was killed in a difficulty ; Run-
kle, a young limb of the law from the Xorth suicided ; and portly
George Hall (son of one of Columbia's first merchants of lang
syne) fell down the front steps and literally broke his neck.
The great reformer, B. R. Tillman, Esq., first thoroughly venti-
lated himself in Parker's Hall before a Columbia audience. The
upper portion of the building is now used for hotel purposes. Mos-
quitoes never trouble guests, because the ceilings are so lofty that
the insects die before reaching feeding points.
Col. Cash, the Irrepressible.
Col. E. B. C. Cash, of Cash's Depot, Marion County, belonged to
the school of irrepressibles. He was Colonel of a regiment from
that section, and showed in battle that he was "every inch a man."
but became very unpopular with his men. At the reorganization and
election of officers, the Colonel was defeated. When he heard of the
turn affairs had taken, he walked out, deliberately took off his coat,
threw it on the ground, and challenged every man in the regiment
to a fight, with fists or pistols. His "numerous" challenge was not
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 69
accepted, and the ex-Colonel quieted down and went home. Time
passed, and the unfortunate duel with Col. Shannon, of Camden,
occnrred, in which the latter gentleman was killed. Col. C. was
tried for the offence, but acquitted. His son, Bogan, while under
the influence of liquor, killed a policeman in Cheraw, and fled.
It was finally discovered that he was on his father's premises. For
some reason, the Governor ordered a detachment of men from Co-
lumbia to arrest the criminal. The squad went down, surrounded
Col. Cash's house, placed the Colonel under arrest, and prosecuted
their search for Bogan, who was located in the barn. When called
upon to surrender, he refused, and. it is said, fired upon them, when
he was promptly shot dead. Old man Cash did not long survive his
accumulated troubles.
"The Home" and "The Pulaski."
In 1838, occurred the twin disaster, loss off Cape Hatteras, North
Carolina, of "The Home," from New York to Charleston, and "The
Pulaski,'' from the former port to Savannah, Georgia. On "The
Home" were several Columbians — Capt. Davie Toms, a retired sea
captain ; Air. James Anderson, a clothing merchant ; Prof. Julius
Nott (of the South Carolina College) and his wife, and several
others. I had reason to remember the loss of "The Home," as Capt.
Toms had promised to bring me a handsome present from New
York — he was indignant at the insignificant souvenir which a fellow-
boarder had brought me from a trip to that then distant metropolis —
3 French bon-bon ( I have the picture in a scrap-book still ) . It was
the loss of "The Pulaski" that caused the famous trial in Savannah,
Ga., as to which of two parties — a male and a female — had first
yielded up their lives, the question involved being a large amount
of property, including slaves. It used to be currently reported that
Senator Charles Summer was one of the lucky heirs, that he sold
the negroes, pocketed the money, and became a rabid Black Repub-
lican. His friends deny this, and I have been unable to corroborate
the report. After considerable argument, it was decided that the
woman, being the weaker, had first expired. This decision was used
in the famous Fair automobile tragedy in Paris a few years ago.
The report as to Charles Summer occurred from a similarity of
names of some of the parties.
The "Elephant's Loose."
Such was the exciting information communicated by a courier,
who reached Columbia from Rabb's Mill (now Messer's) one day
TO MEMORABILIA AND
during the forties. Robinson's Circus was on the way from Cam-
den, when Romeo, the big elephant, refused to cross a bridge in that
neighborhood, and when prodded by his keeper, killed the man and
the horse he bestrode, and rushed excitedly away, trumpeting loudly.
Couriers were sent off in different directions to warn the people.
The DeKalb Rifles, of Camden, were notified, and the members of
the company decided to go on a hunt for such big game. By the
time they arrived, Romeo had quieted down somewhat, but had taken
up a position in the pond, and the circus people could do nothing
with him — were afraid to irritate him to too great an extent, as he
was a powerful beast. Mr. Robinson lost patience, and told the
Riflemen to "Kill the d — d brute ; shoot his eyes out first." They
opened fire on him, and as soon as he felt the bullets, he rushed for
the bank, but several well-directed shots brought him down just as
he got his feet on solid ground, when he fell down and began
trumpeting vigorously (his sign of subjugation), but the firing was
kept up until he was killed. Then the question arose as to what
to do with the carcass. It was finally decided to throw earth over
it, and a lot of men went to work with spades and shovels, and raised
a small mountain over the remains. The dead man and horse were
buried, the circus procession moved on, and the elephant-hunters
returned to Camden.
AH Joined to Do Honor.
Gregg's Hall, located on the southwest corner of Taylor and Main
streets, was destroyed by what is believed to be an incendiary fire.
A falling wall in the one-story part of the building (where the fire
originated) killed two young men: Dannie Carrington and Phineas
Frazee Squier, besides disabling ten or twelve others (firemen and
volunteers), two of whom (Frank Beckham and Will Evans) never
recovered from the effects. Tuesday, the day of the funerals, there
was a general suspension of business, and it appeared as if the entire
community walked in the procession. Squier was interred in the
Presbyterian Church-yard, and afterwards the procession reformed
and marched in the rain to Trinity, where the service for the dead
was performed by the Rev. P. J. Shand — the rain falling on his
bared venerable head. I noticed in the procession, walking arm-
in-arm, Father J. J. O'Connell, of the Catholic Church, and Mr.
Jacob Levin, acting Rabbi for the Israelites. They accidentally
came together, and were good friends ever after. The supposed
incendiary was not prosecuted, but only got two-thirds of his insu-
rance claim.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 71
Two Sons Come to Untimely Ends.
Mrs. Sarah Bynum, a motherly widow, who was beloved by every-
body, maintained herself and two daughters by carrying on a small
millinery establishment on the west side of Main street, above Wal-
nut (now Blanding), for a number of years prior to 1845. She was
the mother of two talented sons, members of the legal profession,
who bid fair to make their marks in the world ; but both came to
untimely ends. Turner Bynum, an earnest Nullifier, was killed in
a duel by B. F. Perry, Esq. (afterwards Provisional Governor), a
sturdy Union man, who maintained his opposition to secession up to
and throughout the "Civil War" — in fact, came near losing his life
on account of the persistent advocacy of his principles. The duel
was fought on Savannah River, in old Pendleton District, and young
Bynum's remains were interred in the grave-yard attached to the
famous "Old Stone Church." Alfred Bynum removed to Texas
soon after the death of his brother, took part in the war for the
independence of that State, was captured by the Mexicans, and
massacred with a number of other prisoners at Golaid, by the orders
of the brutal Mexican General, Santa Anna. Several descendants
of good old Mrs. Bynum reside in Columbia.
The Four McKcnzie Boys.
Mr. and Mrs. John McKenzie, well known residents of Columbia
for fifty years, were the parents of eleven children — seven girls and
four boys : but the family name will be extinct with the demise of
the living members. All the boys came to their ends by accident
or unnatural means — the one, while an infant, fell from the nurse's
arms, and was killed ; John died from the effects of an injury re-
ceived in jumping over posts which formerly stood in front of the
City Hall and Jail ; George lost his right arm at South Mountain,
wrote a letter home with his left hand ten days afterwards, but died
eventually ; Frank was killed in a difficulty with a soldier connected
with the garrison here.
Two White Men Hanged for Killing a Negro.
It has often been asserted that a white man had never been exe-
cuted in South Carolina for killing a negro. This is a mistake, in
one instance at least, and I am satisfied there are others. Motley
and Blackledge, professional hunters of runaway negroes, paid the
death penalty in Colleton District for that crime. It was clearly
proven that they deliberately tortured their victim to death, and
were tried and convicted. Every effort possible was made by their
i 4 MEMORABILIA AND
numerous relatives and friends to get them oft", but Gov. John L.
Manning was firm in his determination that- justice should be done.
Threats of rescue had been made, and his Excellency ordered a
heavy guard to be in attendance, and no trouble occurred. A com-
pany of cavalry went up from Charleston overland, while an infantry
force proceeded by boat as near as possible to the place of execu-
tion, at Walterboro. The only serious result was the death of
one of the soldiers from a cold contracted on the trip. The affair
was impressed upon me by the fact that the bodies of the murderers
were brought through Columbia on the way to Kershaw, where they
had resided, for interment. The stench was so perceptible that pass-
ing individuals hurried from the vicinity.
Unavailing Search for Bodies.
Soon after the completion of the Greenville and Columbia Rail-
road, a heavy freshet washed away the track almost completely be-
tween Columbia and Alston. Wm. Spencer Brown, Esq., the engi-
neer who constructed the road, and young Eddie McCollum, were
drowned by a boat getting upset, while superintending repairs. The
people turned out by hundreds to search for the bodies, and it was
kept up night and day for fully a week. Parties would go in boats
up the river, while others went along the banks, torches being used
in profusion, but to no avail. The bodies had each got caught in the
debris, and were not recovered until the waters had receded. It was
a strange sight, which those who witnessed will never forget — the
moving lights and shouts were weird-like. Mr. Brown lost his life
through a desire that the railroad should be so located that passen-
gers should enjoy the beautiful river scenery, instead of adopting the
route afterwards followed by the Columbia, Newberry and Lau-
rens Railroad.
Foiled the Grave Robbers.
James Patterson, a highly respected colored carpenter, who was
killed by a fall from the roof of the house of Mr. Daniel Crawford,
northeast corner of Lumber and Gates streets (the first house to be
erected on the old parade ground), was buried in the much-used
place of sepulture, and the family determined to prevent the body
being carried off. They had a grave twelve feet square dug and of
the same depth. A quantity of shavings were then put over the
coffin, then a layer of earth ; more shavings, and so on to the top.
The robbing implements could not be forced through the shavings,
and the dead body was not disturbed. His dutiful daughter, Mary
Williams, secured his tomb-stone and keeps it in her house.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 73
SHORT SKETCHES.
How They Became Free Men.
The death of Andrew Wallace, a highly respected and intelligent
colored bricklayer, about a year ago, brings to mind some singular
circumstances. A young Irishman. John Wallace, was the father
by a colored woman whom he owned of three sons — Andrew, George
and James. The white parent died in 1850, and his remains are
in St. Peter's Church-yard. He had been educated for the priest-
hood, but as far as I can understand, had either never assumed
priestly garments or had been silenced. At his death he left the
mother and three children free by his will ; but through some techni-
cality the officials of St. Peter's entered suit and set aside the will.
The boys had been advised by Mr. Isaac Coleman to practice and
become efficient musicians, and this they promptly and successfully
proceeded to do. Andrew learnt bricklaying ; George became
a barber, and James a painter. At Coleman's suggestion they
would get permission from the Intendant to visit neighboring towns
and villages — ostensibly to furnish music for balls and parties. Some
of these professional calls were genuine, but others imaginary. Two
days, three and four days were sometimes applied for. and the neces-
sary passes willingly given. In the meantime, the mother had died.
A call to Camden for four days extended to 1867, when Andrew
and the family he had raised in Toronto, Canada, put in an appear-
ance, where they have since remained. Andrew's fiance, the daughter
of a highly respected colored carpenter, Lee, followed him to
Canada. George became an officer in the British army, but I know
nothing of James. Coleman was an unusually intelligent man,
and during the sessions of the Legislature acted as reporter for the
Charleston Courier, and had the credit of writing occasionally for
the paper on different subjects. It got too warm for Coleman after
the escape of the Wallace boys, and he disappeared between two
days. His sons by a colored woman had been sent North to be
educated. They both entered the army, and I learn were killed —
the mother certainly obtained a pension for one of them. Emma
Coleman and her daughter were respected by all who knew them —
were charitable and willing nurses in sickness, giving their services
without compensation. Maria, the daughter, married Charles Wil-
der, our former colored Postmaster. Coleman returned to his old
home during Radical days, served as Magistrate for a time, became
blind, and soon afterwards died at a good old age. Wilder and his
74 MEMORABILIA AND
family removed to Washington City, remained several years, but
finally returned to Columbia, where they died.
Bull-Penning — Tissue Ballots.
Elections are carried in a variety of ways. The popularity of the
individuals running for office, or the amount of money one or the
other may have, are powerful incentives. The bull-penning plan
of fifty years ago was often used effectively. Purchasable or drink-
-able "independents'" were secured and kept in buildings, properly
cared for and watched over until election day, when they were
brought out, marched in procession to the polling places, the votes
deposited, and then the independent voters scattered. Sometimes,
but not often, there would be a bolt, or the parties would sneak off,
but it was a dangerous proceeding. During the famous Preston-
Adams campaign (which it was said cost Col. John S. Preston fully
$35,000, and Gen. James H. Adams about half that sum), all sorts
of schemes were tried. Col. P. objected to the indiscriminate use
of liquor, and introduced corn-meal and bacon, which seemed to
work admirably — but it had its disadvantages : A well-known gentle-
man, who was careless in his dress, hearing that Col. P. was at
"headquarters,*' called to see him; and was informed that he had
just left, but his bacon and meal was all right, at the same time hand-
ing over packages of the necessaries mentioned. The party "pock-
eted the affront," took the provisions, and turned them over to a
needy family in the neighborhood.
Then the ballot boxes had the bottoms neatly screwed on, so that
they could be easily opened — although the tops would be sealed all
right. Then the tissue ballots were tried very effectively — a Massa-
chusetts idea. The "little jokers" were printed on onion-skin paper,
thirty or forty, in some instances, folded up in a properly printed
ticket and dropped in the receptacle. When the ballots were
counted, the numbers did not tally ; so all were put back, the proper
number drawn out indiscriminately, and the others destroyed. Of
course, the individual doing the drawing (usually a small boy) was
instructed as to the difference between the onion-skins and the others,
and drew the thin ones. "Necessity is the mother of invention," as
the boy said when he used his hat to boil potatoes in ; so all things are
fair in love, law, war and elections ; besides, "necessity knows no
law," and "desperate cases require desperate remedies," etc. After
a deal of manipulation, the "primary" was resorted to; Sambo was
successfully eliminated, and now things move along smoothly — "the
gentleman in black" yielding quietly to the inevitable.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 70
Nat Pope's Pig.
Mr. Nathaniel Pope, the veteran butcher, who resided in Butcher
Town, to the north of Columbia, and lived to a good old age, had
characteristics peculiarly his own; he was liberal, kind-hearted and
of a belligerent disposition, when imposed upon. He would occa-
sionally get into scrapes, but his fists were his only weapons, and
when the knock-out was over with, all ill-feeling seemed to have
been forgotten. A party of Indians encamped in his neighborhood
were thought to make raids on his pigs, but positive proof could
not be obtained ; so Mr. P. broke out in rhyme, gave the suspected
Indians a castigation, and at the same time touched up some delin-
quents, in the meat line. We give the following extracts from his
production, as his descendants and old friends would likely care to
have it brought to their recollection :
Nathaniel Pope has lost a pig,
Like many a one before;
But such a pig was never seen
In Butcher Town, I'm sure.
It had a tail, just where pigs' tails
Most usually are found,
Also a snout, with which sometimes
He rooted up the ground;
His little tail, like other pig's,
Was hairy, round and black —
Sometimes hung down between his legs,
Sometimes curled on his back.
And then after a hundred or more stanzas he touches up other
meat-stealers — debtors, thusly :
And many a loafer in the street
Who struts and swells with pride,
Owes for the very coat he wears,
And the butcher's bill beside.
To all such worthy gentlemen
Nathaniel Pope sends greeting:
Unless you pay your butcher's bill,
He'll stop you all from eating.
He Carried It Too Far.
Dick Waters was a famous chuck-a-luck and card manipulator —
a fine looking and muscular man. His proposition to "chuck" play-
ers was in a sing-song whine to the effect :
All young men disposed to gamble,
Chuckaluck's a game that's easy to handle;
The more you put down less you take up,
And that's the game they call chuckaluck.
Dick generally wore a coat with brass buttons, and parties who
watched closely caught on to his trick, and how he made such a
success. He would put two dice in the box — sometimes only one —
holding the other with his bent little finger. The query was then
i 6 MEMORABILIA AND
propounded, "All down?" The box would be rattled against the
buttons, giving the sound of three dice, while the sharp eyes caught
whether high or low numbers were being played ; the dice held by
the finger would turn to suit the numbers, and the "suckers" be
caught.
Dick and a chum "put up a job," as they thought, on a blacksmith
in Xew Orleans, which came very near being serious. Dick's idea
was to cover himself with a kind of stain, which would wear oft" in
a few weeks ; he was then sold as a slave, and when his natural color
returned, make off. I suppose he must have been a blacksmith by
trade, because it was said that his master was delighted with his
skill, and willingly paid $1,000, which was asked — a low figure for
a good workman. The owner evidently suspected something, for
he had his new purchase chained to the anvil, and at night he was
securely locked up. An attempt at escape was visited with such a
severe whipping, that Dick submitted quietly, worked energetically
and prayed for the early wearing off of the dye. His friends finally
succeeded in raising the necessary funds for his release, with an
addition to the original cost, and he barely escaped trouble with
the authorities, as interfering with slaves was a very serious affair.
So-Called Historical Picture.
During a visit to the Metropolitan Museum at Central Park, a
year or two ago, I was forced to let off a little surplus bile, with
reference to the so-called historical picture representing old "John
Brown Being Led Out to Execution." The painting is well done,
and the portraits of Brown and the Sheriff are excellent, but it rep-
resents to the world a falsehood uncalled for. I was examining it,
when, without thinking of parties behind me. who were evidently
admiring the artistically executed representation of the preparations
for the execution of this crazy fanatic, I said, in an undertone, "It
is a burning shame that such a deliberate lie should be foisted upon
the American people and the world at large." "What makes you
say that?" put in a voice behind me. "Because, when a criminal
is taken charge of by the officers, and is on his way to the place of
execution, the crowd is kept back, while here negro women are reach-
ing forward their babies to be kissed by the 'great emancipator:'
and this notwithstanding the fact that lines of soldiers in inverted
order extended from the jail, and closed in behind as the condemned
man and the officers moved forward. There wasn't a colored person
in sight ; besides, such an exhibition would not have been allowed.
I know what I am talking: about. Furthermore, the soldiers form-
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. T 7
ing the guard were Virginia volunteer companies, dressed in differ-
ent styles of uniform ; while these are soldiers in the uniform of the
United States, which was not adopted until several years after-
wards. "Well, really," was the doubtful reply. "But what you say
does sound reasonable, and the matter should be looked into," he
finally added.
By-the-way, Mr. William Lesher, a resident of Columbia, was
killed on the spot where John Brown was hung. Lesher, Captains
Pressley Brown, W. H. Griffith and a squad of men were captured
in 1865 by the Federals. Their captors annoyed them in a variety
of ways — an opprobrious epithet being applied to Lesher, who
knocked his insulter down, but was shot dead immediately. The
killing of the entire party was only prevented by the prompt inter-
ference of the officers. It was a close call, Capt. Brown remarked,
in speaking of the affair.
Only a Pleasant Talk — Widely Separated.
The handsome residence on the southeast corner of Lady and Bull
streets (now the residence of Mr. Hudgins) was the scene of what
was believed at the time to be an important gathering to discuss the
condition of things in this section — a meeting between Gen. Canby,
Commandant of this Department, Gov. Worth, of North Carolina,
and Gov. Orr, of South Carolina. Col. L. D. Childs was present by
invitation, as was also this individual, as a representative of the
press, in case it was deemed advisable to give to the public the result
of the conference. The Governors explained the condition of things
in a very lucid manner — Gen. Canby appearing to understand and
appreciate what was said, and seeming to coincide with their views.
Gen. Canby finally said, in a pleasant tone of voice: "I think I fairly
understand the matter thoroughly, and it will enable me to shape
the course of things more readily. As it is nearing train time, I
shall be compelled to leave you." After partaking of a stimulant,
all parties accompanied him to his carriage. Turning as he was
about to step in, he said, in a different tone of voice to that used
but a short time before, "Remember, gentlemen, this is to be re-
garded as just a pleasant talk, and will not likely result in anything.
Good-day." The driver tightened his reins, and the General de-
parted. That was the last we saw of him, for he was soon after-
wards ordered to the Black Hills. As the vehicle moved off. Gov.
Orr quietly turned to Gov. Worth, with the brief comment, "I'll be
damned." We returned to the house, one of the party saying, "Let's
reverse the old adagfe, 'it's a Ions; time between drinks,' and take
\S MEMORABILIA AND
one in short order." It was done. Gen. Canby was killed in the
Black Hills; Gov. (or Minister) Orr died in Russia; Gov. Worth
in North Carolina, and Col. Childs in his home in Columbia. "I
still live."
Quickest Trial on Record.
A trifling darkey from the lower part of the County of Richland
who was a known idler and thief, was caught stealing from a hard-
working colored family. One day all the members were in the field
at work, when one of them returned to the cabin for some purpose,
and found a man inside, who had gathered together a lot of stuff
and put it in the middle of the room, preparatory to carrying it off.
Frightened, the thief grabbed two sides of bacon and a gun and ran
off. Stealing to the amount of $25 constitutes grand larceny. Col.
John T. Sloan, for the prisoner, and Solicitor Abney warmed up
considerably in the attempt to prove and disprove the valuation of
the stolen goods. The Judge, in charging the jury, stated that the
removal of articles from their usual place of deposit and putting
them on the floor, preparatory to carrying them off, settled the ques-
tion as to grand larceny. The case was given to the jury and we
filed out. In a few minutes a vote was taken, and we stood ten to
two. There were two colored men on the jury, and they stood out
in their opposition to the grand larceny feature. Israel Smith, a
respectable colored man (formerly an Alderman, and the only mem-
ber of the board who did not participate in the Opera House job),
and another who had a good reputation also. I went to them, and
said to Smith that I had known him all my life, and that his repu-
tation for honesty stood high. His reply was, "This is a color case,
and we must stand by our color ;" which was endorsed by the other
objector. "So," said I, "if a well known idling thief — proven so by
colored and white witnesses — robs a hard-working family, you must
uphold the thief and let the honest folks lose?" "I never thought of
it that way,'" was the quick response, and we had a verdict at once.
The jury returned into Court, with a verdict of "guilty of grand
larceny." It was sentence day, and his case was disposed of at
once, and that afternoon he was put to work on the canal.
A little darkey, not more than ten years of age, was being tried
for killing a white child, by causing him to fall from a turn-table at
the South Carolina Depot. "All of which occurred on the 31st of
September," etc. It was but a short time to the dinner hour, and
I "let her roll" without saying anything until the recess, when I
called the attention of counsel to the mistake. The case was nol
prossed by the Solicitor, after consulting with the Judge.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES 79
Caricatured Once Too Often.
Andy Baskin, a well known member of the legal fraternity, who
thoroughly enjoyed a joke and was a well known mimic, is remem-
bered by many. He used to annoy Air. Joseph T. Zealy so fre-
quently, that "Uncle Joe" would frequently hurl a rough expression
in reply to a supposed question from the joker, and find out after-
wards the mistake he had made. Henry Taylor, a man who stut-
tered fearfully, was the subject of Andy's skill at mimicking on
many occasions. Henry tried a hum-bugging so-called "professor,"
who impressed his patient with the belief that he had benefited him.
Henry had a fight with Minturn, the hotel man. who got him down
and was pounding him severely, when Taylor whipped out his knife
and slashed him in the eye, putting out that useful member. He was
prosecuted and Baskin defended him. I rather guess that lawyer
and client had imbibed before the case began ; at all events, such
grandiloquent language was used in the defence as to excite mirth
all over the Court House — even the Judge quietly smiled. Much to
the disappointment of the parties interested, Henry was fined $300,
which he made light of, and paid promptly. As I said before, the
stutterer thought he had been broken of this ugly habit, and he would
sometimes say to parties similarly afflicted, "Go-o-o-o to-o-o the-e-e
man-n-n that-t-t cure-cure-cured me." shaking his right leg behind
him vigorously at the same time. Andy was aware of this pecu-
liarity and would sometimes imitate him wonderfully. Henry heard
of it, and expressed his disapproval. With a party of chums one
day, something was said about Henry, when Andy began his amus-
ing performance ; but Henry happened to be passing, and without
saying a word, let drive with his fist and downed the discomfited
lawyer — who had sense enough to lie still until his antagonist shuffled
off, muttering, "I-I-I tol-tol-told yo-yo-you to-to-to stop-stop -stop
it-it-it." I think he did. Henry was brave, but easily ruffled, and
then you would have to look out.
History of a Gold Snuff-Box.
About the time it was decided to erect the new State Capitol of
South Carolina, two brothers, named Hammarkshold, natives of
Sweden, came over to America. One of them, an architect and civil
engineer, obtained a position with Mr. Niernsee on that work ; the
other, a mining engineer, drifted to Lincolnton, N. C, and connected
himself with Col. Lysander D. Childs in an enterprise of this nature ;
but they were unsuccessful and dropped out. The mining brother
80 • MEMORABILIA AND
had a beautiful gold snuff-box, presented to him by King Oscar, of
Sweden. The top of it was ornamented with flowers and leaves,
constructed of precious stones, surrounded by an "O" (Oscar), of
the same ornamentation. On settling their mining affairs, the snuff-
box came into the possession of Col. C, who held it for a time and
then decided to sell it ; took it to Xew York and left in with a promi-
nent jewelry firm to be disposed of. Before leaving the city an inti-
mate acquaintance told him that he believed he could get a customer
for the box ; that it would be necessary to carry it to the party, and
suggested that he give him an order on the jewellers for the valua-
ble box. The party spoke so plausibly about the matter, that Col.
C. not only gave him the order, but introduced him to the heads of
the firm. The prize was obtained, and Col. C. thought no more of
the matter until several months had elapsed, when on visiting the
city, he dropped in at the store aforesaid, and casually remarked,
"No sale for the snuff-box. eh?" '•Snuff-box?*' was the surprised
replv ; "why. we have seen nothing of it since the party you gave the
order to called and took it away." Of course, search was immedi-
ately begun, and the box was found in the hands of a pawn-broker,
where it had been "spouted" for $700. It was recovered, but there
was no prosecution — the Colonel pocketing his chagrin and his box.
Years afterwards, in some legal business, it is supposed, Col. Rion,
of Winnsboro, got hold of the valuable but unfortunate article, as it
was seen in his possession, or, at least, parties so asserted. Dame
Rumor had put forth a report that Col. Rion was a son of the
Dauphin of France, the child of the unfortunate Louis XIY. and his
beautiful Queen, Marie Antoinette, who lost their heads on the
guillotine, and the possession of the handsome gold sni^f-box was
considered positive proof of the correctness of that surmise. With-
out stopping to consider how it would have been possible for the
poor boy to have hidden such a valuable prize from the peering eyes
of old Samuel, the cobbler, into whose hands he fell, the gullible
mvstery-loving public swallowed the story. Col. Rion died, and the
box. I am told, was disposed of in New York. All the parties con-
nected with the affair have long since crossed the river. Bad luck
has followed the box, but I can trace it no further.
The Greek Slave and Eve.
Hiram Powers, the famous sculptor, was enabled to gain the pin-
nacle of his artistic fame through the liberality of a resident of
Columbia. Col. John S. Preston. William C. Preston, Esq., while a
member of Congress, amused himself frequently by going among the
ANFCDOTAI, REMINISCENCES. 81
working" men and exchanging pleasant words with them. He be-
came particularly interested in Hiram Powers — admired his skill,
and chatted with him frequently. One day the incipient sculptor,
speaking of his work, regretted his inability, owing to lack of funds,
to take a course of sculpture study in Rome, as he believed he had
the talent in him which only required developing. Hon. Wm. C.
was not well supplied with the wherewithal, but communicated with
his brother, John, and the money was furnished. We know the rest.
Powers went to Rome, and became one of the first sculptors of the
age. Among the earliest results of the work of his chisel was a bust
of Hon. John S. Preston. That which gained him notoriety was
the "Greek Slave." Seven duplicates of this famous statue are in
existence. But the original is believed to be in the Corcoran Gallery
in Washington. His patron gave him an order for an "Eve,"
which was promptly executed — indeed, it is thought that work on
the "Slave" and "Eve" were carried on at the same time, and on the
completion of the two well known pieces of work the owners allowed
them to be exhibited for the artist's benefit. After being seen in
the principal cities of the country, they reached Columbia, and were
shown in the old City Hall, northeast corner of Main and Washing-
ton streets. "Eve" was delivered to its owner here, while the
"Slave" arrived in New York safely. I once asked the manager of
the Corcoran Gallery how it happened that they did not secure
"Eve" for their collection ; his reply was that they did not know
that Gen. Preston cared to part with it. "We have several pictures
and articles of virtu formerly belonging to Gen. Preston," said the
gentleman ; "and surprise was felt that Mr. Stewart, the New York
merchant, had obtained it." By some mistake at the sale of Mrs.
Stewart's effects after her death, Ed. Stokes, of Jim Fish notoriety,
secured it, and it' ornamented his Hoffman House saloon, New York.
I discovered it in an out-of-the-way corner of the handsome estab-
lishment, and notified the Corcoran Gallery manager. The baptis-
mal font in Trinity Church, this city, is the work of Powers, and
was presented by Airs. Hampton.
The Quitman Ball and Supper.
Gen. John A. Quitman paid a visit by invitation to the capital city
of South Carolina during the administration of Gov. R. F. W.
Alston. There was a procession and speaking by the distinguished
guest and other prominent gentlemen ; but it was regular "dumb
orator." The speaking was in the new College Chapel, at the head
of Sumter street, and the acoustics of the building are actually worse
6— M
82 MEMORABILIA AND
than the Opera House. The speakers would saw the air, look sky-
wards and appear to be using fine language, but nothing could be
understood. The grand attraction, however, was the ball and sup-
per at Kinsler's Hall, northwest corner of Taylor and Alain streets.
The rooms were simply packed, and it was with difficulty that the
Governor and the honored guest could make a circle of the hall.
The appearance of the two men was striking — Gen. Quitman sallow
and feeble. Gov. Alston ruddy and in good condition, with a healthy
a la well-fed Englishman appearance. Dancing was carried on after
a fashion, the crowd being so dense that the Terpsichorean devotees
couldn't make much of a show of fancy steps. But the push oc-
curred when supper was announced — all seemed to be hungry. The
stairway appeared literally to tremble from the unusual pressure : but
there was no damage beyond rents being made in unnecessarily long
garments. Among the table ornaments was a model of the Castle of
Chapultepec, which was attacked and demolished in a shorter time
than the Palmetto and New York regiments did the original ; the
other eatables suffered a similar fate. Air. McKenzie's rule was to
have everything on the table of a nature pleasing to the palate. The
old General died soon afterwards. Gov. Alston passed away at a
good old age.
Shrewd Speaker — Changed Front.
Daddv Cain, a so-called exhorter, was one of the most shrewd
members of the Radical Senate in the times of "good stealing" in
South Carolina. A bill with reference to a bank was being dis-
cussed, and Daddy Cain had not been "fixed." The sable Senator
proceeded to attack the bill savagely. Tim Hurley, the noted mem-
ber of the "third house," listened for a few minutes, and then hur-
ried to the fathers of the scheme, and told them that Cain was killing
the bill, and they had better pay him the $300. The money was
immediately put in an envelope and given to Tim, who sauntered
into the chamber, and carelessly laid the package in front of the sup-
posed opponent. There was a slight pause only, when Cain somer-
saulted from his previous remarks somewhat to this effect: "That,
gentlemen, is what the opponents of the bill, doubtless, will
say." He then proceeded to tear to pieces what he had just said,
and satisfactorily proved that the measure was a good one — at least,
the bill was passed. Tim was a genius in his way, but Cain was the
sharper of the two. "Daddy" became a preacher afterwards.
"Tree of Life" — A Reminiscence.
The completion of the Synagogue, "Tree of Life." on Lady street,
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 83
between Sumter and Marion, by our Jewish friends, brings to mind
the neat little building southeast corner Assembly street and Stan-
ley's alley. There were a great many Israelites living here then, but
they died out or are scattered — the Lyons, Pollocks, Peixottos.
Mordecais, Myers, Carrs, Levys, and others. The Sunday School
had large numbers of scholars, and was superintended by Miss
Boana Wolf (afterwards Levy). The examinations were annually
held in Odd Fellows Hall, northwest corner Main and Plain streets,
and it was usually packed with interested spectators, Jews and Gen-
tiles. Rachel (a typical Jewess) and Isaac Lyons were two of the
"star scholars." Mr. Thomas Frean, our old poet friend, paid a just
poetical tribute to Miss Levy, to which Mr. Philip Myers, a member
of the congregation, replied. We extract the following from it :
Miss B. E. W.'s charms you were pleased to unfold —
Who is held by her people more precious than gold,
For the mountains of Israel will rear them on high,
And spread all her virtues e'en clear to the sky.
The mothers of Israel have nothing to dread,
When they look with due reverence on thy hoary head;
And will fervently pray they may live to see
The same zeal and devotion now practiced by thee.
Mrs. Levy has descendants of the second and third generation, I
believe.
Jacob Rife's Rhyming Outdone.
Many old residents remember Jacob Rife, the jolly rhyming keeper
of the Congaree Bridge. So it sounded like a rhyme, whether
grammatical or not, satisfied the old man, when he would laugh
heartily, slap his listener on the back and then quiet down. In and
before the forties pic-nicking on the Lexington side of the river, as
far as Saluda Factory, was a favorite amusement of the young
folks, who invariably walked (not like at present, when this genera-
tion must be transported even half a mile) ; elderly people, like our
old friend, Mrs. Hillegas, would ride in their carriages, and will-
ingly carry the baskets for the youngsters. Mr. Charles Logan had
recently arrived from the old country — a buckish young man of
twenty-three or four, a great lover and frequent attendant at these
frolics. He was a practical shoe-maker, and at the time was super-
intending business for Mr. James Fenton (whose former residence,
northwest corner Main and Pendleton, still stands). One morning,
while the would-be bridge-crossers were collecting the tolls, old
Jacob walked up to Mr. Logan, and with the accompanying laugh,
blurted out :
"Say, Mr. Charley Logan,
Can you make a brogan?"
81 MEMORABILIA AND
"Yes," was Mr. Logan's quick rejoinder; "and I can make a
rhyme, too :
"Well, old Jacob Rife,
How's your nigger wife?"
Rife was taken aback, muttered something about not wanting to
insult anybody, received his tolls and retired, while the listeners
roared with laughter at his discomfiture.
Wouldn't Make a Hog of Himself.
I could generally get rid of a reasonable amount of provender, and
Purser Ashcroft, of the steamship "Georgia," plying between
Charleston and New York, used to invariably invite me to a seat at
his table — and I occupied the place a good many times — because he
said I handled a knife and fork so skilfully. At a barbecue at the
Fair Grounds, I felt particularly healthy, and was putting away a
goodly amount of provender. Mr. John Altee, an old acquaintance,
came several times with a nice piece of meat, saying he had filled up,
but knew that I could appreciate good barbecued meat better than
any one he knew. In a few minutes, Tom Pope, who was seated
opposite to me, threw down his knife and fork and got up from the
table, saying he "wouldn't make a cussed hog of himself for ten dol-
lars!" There was general laughter and shouting. I knew nothing
about the matter, but it seems that Mr. Altee had pitted me against
Tom for that amount, and I had made the money for him. A year
or two after, when the old gentleman was on his death-bed, I called
to see him. He recognized me and smiled. As I was about to leave,
I took him by the hand and told him good-bye — saying I would call
again to see him. As I turned, one of his sons said his father wanted
to speak to me. I leaned over him, and in a whisper, he asked,
"Have you been to any barbecues lately?" He died the next clay.
A Necessary Evil.
Policeman Sonendriker was put forward by the law and order
society to have the inmates of a house in the lower part of the city
removed, on the ground that they were disreputable characters. The
policeman was a very efficient officer an3 entered heart and soul in
the prosecution, as he with his family lived in the neighborhood. He
kept an eye on the place and secured the names of a number of per-
sons who had been seen going into the suspected house. Mr. Wm.
M. Myers, in the meantime, had returned to Columbia from his vol-
untary exile, and was retained by the suspects to defend them. The
case was called, Sonendriker was put up and gave very damaging
evidence. The defending lawyer would question and cross-question
AXKCDOTAL REMINISCENCES. So
him, invariably addressing him as Snasheldringer, to tantalize him;
but it had no apparent effect on the stolid French-German. Wit-
nesses were called and the parties admitted they had been in the
house on certain occasions. One had been there to see about having
some fancy shirts made ; another to make an offer for a piece of
property possessed by one of the inmates, and so on. The affair
petered out and the defendants won, as they generally do when such
charges are preferred. In one case Judge John Belton O'Neale said
that class of individuals were a "necessary evil." Sonendriker was
a native of Alsace-Lorraine, and one of the witnesses in the unplea-
sant affair, on leaving the Court House, called him a d — d Dutch-
man. The cool reply was : "I not sure about dot — I have not see dis
morning paper ; may be Dutch, may be French." This was before
Sedan.
Camp Sorghum — Lexington Side Congaree.
Few persons now living remember Camp Sorghum, which was
used as a place of confinement for Federal prisoners. Several of
the aforesaid have visited Columbia in recent years, and where ap-
plication was made to me, I have either accompanied the parties to
the ground, or directed them so they could find it. A member of a
New Hampshire regiment recognized the place at once, except that
a branch running through it went the wrong way. I told him that
it had been running in that direction for sixty years, and he then
gave in. The ex-prisoner washed his face, took a drink from the
stream, pocketed several pebbles, and departed a happy man. He
attributed his good health during his confinement to the presence
of the waters of this branch — he washed freely, cold or warm, wet
or dry. Gen. John B. Dennis, afterwards Superintendent of the
Penitentiary, made his escape from this "camp," and after his set-
tlement in Columbia, succeeded in finding the colored man who
assisted his escape by carrying him some distance down the river in
his boat. "Camp Sorghum" is on the west side of the road to old
Saluda Factory, a little over a mile from the Congaree Bridge.
Let the Lord Have Good Music.
If some of our old citizens who have been laid away for forty
or fifty years could get up and see how the world moves, they would
want to turn in again and take another nap. Xot only would they
be astonished at the phonographs, automobiles, bicycles and electri-
cal manipulations — even if they had been on hand during railroad
and telegraph days ; but to find how we have advanced in church
music. Many vears affo. Elder lames Martin, of the Presbvterian
86 MEMORABILIA AND
Church, a wealthy cotton buyer, was horrified at the choir singing
"Claremont," and at the beginning of the second verse, he picked up
his hat and stalked out of the church. It was ever after known as
"Jimmy Martin's Quickstep," and was not again utilized. But when
the staid Methodists introduced pianos, cornets and violins in their
Sunday School services, I am afraid the parties would think they had,
by mistake, gotten upon another planet. Have nothing to say
against it, and firmly believe that the change to more lively airs and
the instrumental aid will be received cordially by the Great Ruler.
Merely a bit of retrospection. Freely admit that I like it.
Scriptural Locusts.
Columbia has kept up with the procession in wonderful happen-
ings — burnings, earthquakes and other disagreeable as well as plea-
sant things — and if the list should be called over, "Here!" would
be the response in nearly every instance. About twenty years ago,
we had a plague of locusts — they were here, there and everywhere,
but did no serious harm, and departed again as speedily and quietly
as they had arrived. Our late scientific friend, Dr. E. E. Jackson,
decided to give the insects a "turn," and cooked them in several
different ways, declaring that they were really toothsome. I was
satisfied with taking his word, backed up by the Scriptures, but didn't
experiment with the jumping-flyers.
A Big Drunk.
Mr. Thos. Sprowl, the well known marble cutter, of the firm of
Boyne & Sprowl, had some kind of employment at the laboratory
(old Fair Grounds), and when it was found that the Yankees were
actually entering the city, he was deputised to knock in the heads and
empty forty or fifty barrels of whiskey stored there. Tom started
on his disagreeable job, but the Federal soldiers came on him before
he had done little besides knocking in several of the barrel-heads.
They charged him with attempting to poison the liquor, took him
around and made him take a drink out of every one of them. The
poor man said he didn't get over this drunk in a month — in fact,
didn't believe he ever got entirely over it. Tom was the owner of
"Poverty Patch," two or three miles below Columbia, which he
claimed was so poor that you couldn't even raise a mortgage on it.
The late Mr. J. S. Derrick, superintendent of the gas works, could
always remember the number of days in the year. Sherman's sol-
diers punched exactly 365 holes in the gasometer, and he had to patch
them all.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 87
Didn't Approve of Circus in the Street.
Col. Thos. J. Robertson, Col. Wiley Jones, this individual and
many others were great admirers of the circus and attended often;
but the first named party objected to street exhibitions of that nature.
My six-year-old boy possessed an old army horse which would jump
over anything, from a rail fence to a good resolution. The boy
learned the proficiency of the animal, and practiced it almost daily.
Col. R. saw him at it, and rode rapidly to overtake him, but the
scrawny horse went over the ground too rapidly, encouraged by the
youthful rider. The Colonel finally notified me that he'd kill the
animal, if he had to pay for another, as he was afraid the child
would get killed. "I like circus performances, but not in the street,"
he added. The horse was disposed of. Col. Robertson was an ex-
cellent horseman and mounted good stock. It seemed sad in his
latter days that he could not enjoy his favorite recreation, and had to
satisfy himself with a carriage and pair of horses.
Horn of Plenty — Cornucopia.
In the fall of 1864, the ladies decided to get up a "Bazaar," for the
benefit of the wounded soldiers, in the State Capitol, and a wonder-
ful affair it proved to be — successful in every way. The exhibits
were unique and the eatables and drinkables enticing. Col. James
F. Sims, who was assisting the ladies in their laudable enterprise,
heard some of them discussing the preparation of a cornucopia, or
"horn of plenty." "Well, now, don't worry yourselves about the
matter," he gladly suggested. "My old friend, John McKenzie,
will lend us his handsome silver fire horn, and that will just fill the
bill." The ladies were too polite to point out his misunderstanding
of their wants, and used the silver horn as an ornajnent for one of the
tables. The old Colonel was delighted at his shrewd suggestion.
A number of new Confederate uniforms on unknown men, were
noticed at the "Bazaar," but no suspicions were aroused. When
Sherman arrived in Columbia several months afterwards, some of
his officers described scenes that had occurred during the famous
entertainment, showing they had been there in propria personae.
Three Treasured Memories.
I have three handsome silver cups, which I treasure highly. One
was presented by Dr. Robert W. Gibbes, Sr., my employer for nearly
fifteen years, with the inscription: "Independence Day, December
20, 1865." A young lady from the North, who was looking over my
curios, sneeringly inquired what the inscription meant. My reply
88 .MEMORABILIA AND
was. that if Gen. Longstreet hadn't made a mistake, or failed to come
to time at Gettysburg, she would have known long ago the meaning.
The next is a large sized mug, perfectly plain, presented to me by
my old friend, Capt. Thos. \Y. Radcliffe, with the hope that it would
prove a talisman for the inauguration of better times ; but he par-
ticularly requested that no lettering of any kind be put upon it, and
so it stands. The third is a goblet presented by the employees of
The Phoenix. All. or nearly all. of the parties have crossed the
river, and I sincerely hope are resting securely on the other shore.
Following Bad Examples.
Our Democratic legislators are yearly following the bad examples
set by the Radicals, and it is glossed over or not mentioned. They
draw pay when absent for several days; adjourn over for one and
even two days ; lay off when business is really pressing, to go to the
theatre ; draw $5 a session for stationery and stamps, yet use large
quantities of letter-heads obtained from committee clerks ; have
clerks for nearly all committees ; leave a corporal's guard to look
after business on the last day of the session, etc. Encourage State
officials to print lengthy reports, which could not possibly be read
during the session. And as for the Acts, they are so carelessly
copied, that blunders are constantly occurring. Some curious mem-
ber, who will make a "Reform" movement and look over the laws,
will find that violations are frequent in various departments, and
some of the officials may yet come to grief, as the old laws have not
been repealed, although it is claimed that amendments repeal old
Acts — many of these changes refer to portions only of the original
Acts. These shortcomings are commented on by many individuals.
Built Before the Revolution.
The only house in this vicinity which is known to have been
erected prior to the Revolutionary War is what is known as Cayce's.
in Lexington County, two miles below Columbia. The builder or
the original owner seems to be unknown. A member of the exten-
sive Taylor family kept a store there early in the last century. The
Cayce family have occupied the premises for over seventy years, so
far as I can learn. Fort Granby was situated a mile or two below,
and English soldiers at different times occupied it. Light Horse
Harry Lee attacked it at one time and drove the English out. Lee
fired two cannon balls, much to the surprise of the commander — who
supposed it was merely a dummy — one over and the other into the
house, the Johnny Bulls marched out and surrendered, when
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 89
they were immediately paroled. The hole made by the cannon ball
is still to be seen. Many years ago, in clearing up some woods to the
south of the building, a cannon ball was found embedded in a tree —
believed to have been the one fired overhead by Lee. There is a
venerable portrait of a female member of the Geiger family in the
house.
All Rice.
Away back in the early forties, two plump and handsome young
ladies, great friends — Miss Rebecca Boatwright and Miss Jenny
Rice — daughters of prominent citizens of Columbia, used to be seen
on Main street frequently in company. On one occasion, passing by
a party of impertinent young men, one of them commented favora-
bly on the fine looking couple, in a tone of voice loud enough to be
overheard (unintentionally, perhaps) : when Mr. Impertinence No.
2 replied, "Yes ; but mostly cotton." Miss Rice promptly turned
about, faced the surprised individual, and in a sharp tone gave him
his quietus: "All Rice, no cotton, I'll have you to understand."
The parties reflected on then resuming their walk. Miss Rice soon
after removed witrfher parents to the up-country, and mothered a
family, I afterwards heard. Miss Boatwright remained in her old
home, continued to be the reigning belle, became engaged to a col-
lege student, named Swinton (her opposite in looks, he being tall
and slim, with light hair) ; but just before his graduation, she con-
tracted fever and died after a short illness. Swinton took her death
so seriously to heart, that he soon followed her to the grave.
Don't Darn on the Darn.
The following lines, enclosed with a fancy silver-handled darner,
were sent to a truly charitable lady who was looking after two
adopted youngsters :
As every one knows
Who cares for the hose
Of the av'rage American boy;
He gets half way thro'
'Spite of all you do —
Making darner useful, 'stead of toy.
Not for ornament
Is this implement
Consigned to your basket and care;
But as weekly aid
To stop the holes made,
Keep the pedals from getting quite bare.
My advice is this
(Don't take it amiss),
In using the necessary yarn —
My mother thought best,
But I would suggest,
By all means pray don't darn on the darn.
90 MEMORABILIA AXD
X 10 U 8.
A circumstance connected with the row of wooden buildings
which formerly stood in the rear of the DesPortes corner, shows the
uncertainty of life. When these little stores were erected, the land-
lord with every tenant, except Messrs. Townsend & North, book-
sellers, required an agreement to be signed to the effect that no
liquor should be sold on the premises. Messrs. T. & N. died, and
soon after a liquor shop with a sign over it "X 10 U 8," was in ope-
ration. After some legal trouble, the "extenuate" objectionable in-
dividual was ousted, and the place occupied by other parties.
Don't Interfere Between Husband and Wife.
Very few remember when "straps" were in vogue. I had a pair
of so-called buckskin pants, so tightly strapped, that in walking, I
had to be careful to keep from kicking myself. In company with
one of my numerous sweethearts, I was on my way (footing it, as
was the custom,) to a frolic below the State House. In passing
"New Dublin," a portion of the west side of the square on Main
street, between Lady and Gervais, I heard screams of "Murder!"
Leaving my young lady on the sidewalk, I rushed in and found an
Irishman belaboring his wife. Going up behind him, I caught him
by the shoulders with both hands and succeeded in throwing him on
his back, and attempted to hold him until the wife could get out of
the way. In a few seconds I felt something hot on both legs, and
found that the indignant woman removed a frying-pan containing
sausages, which she was preparing for a late supper, and was delib-
erately pouring the hot grease over my close-fitting nether garments.
I was informed that I had no right to interfere between husband
and wife, and that if I did not get out at once, she would crack my
skull with the handy implement. I left without further notice.
Objected to Being Made a Nun.
A colored man, John by name, was employed as a gardener at
Valle Crucis (the old Preston residence, on the east side of the Mill
Creek Road, used as a Convent for several years), two miles below
Columbia. Father Meriwether looked after the spiritual as well as
the substantial affairs of the institution. John became impressed
with the religious feeling permeating the premises, and expressed a
disposition to Dr. M. to become a Catholic. The Doctor was grati-
fied, gave him some religious instruction and directed him to come
and see him twice a week — mentioning the days or evenings when it
would be convenient to converse with him. A fortnight passed and
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 91
John had not put in an appearance at the Doctor's quarters. Hav-
ing an opportunity to speak with him soon afterwards, inquiry was
made as to his absence. His reply was. "My old woman say, 'John,
you better think what you doing. Dr. Meriwether talk to you, and
next thing you get to be a Nun.' Consequently I didn't come again."
John drew the line.
Sam Wouldn't Stay Dead.
Eight or ten years ago, a delicate colored man, Sam by name, died
or appeared to have shaken off this mortal coil. A circus was ex-
hibiting in town, and his friends were anxious to witness the per-
formance : but what to do about sitters-up with Sam ? Finally, one
old chum, Jim, agreed if they would chip in and buy him a half
bushel of potatoes, he would "sit-up" with the corpse. The pota-
toes were procured, and Jim squatted himself comfortably before the
fire-place and began roasting his vegetables, crooning a plantation
melody at the same time. The pleasant aroma began to fill the room
and Jim was thinking of the pleasure in store, when a weak voice
was heard behind him: "Jim, give me some of them taters." The
astonished darkey looked round suddenly, and saw the supposed
corpse sitting up. The door and window were too far off. So Jim
threw himself against the back of the chimney, went through
and made tracks. Sam recovered then ; about a year afterwards he
actually died ; but there were no sitters-up. "That nigger, Sam,
aint to be 'pended on — he wake up again." Sam was locked up in a
room until arrangements could be made for the funeral. The house
fell down, but the "busted" chimney remained for several years, on
the lot opposite the Catholic Cemetery.
Couldn't Stand the Coffins.
Our old friend. Mr. M. H. Berry, and his copartner, J. C. Price,
inaugurated the fashion of keeping those necessary articles, coffins,
on hand. Their store was on the corner of Richardson street and
the alley now known as Lorick & Lowrance's. The building was
in dangei of destruction by fire, when numbers of volunteers rushe:l
in to help save the movable property. They cleared out the firt>t
story, and were requested to help move the articles in the cellar,
as there was a large stock down there. The crowd, white and black,
descended willingly ; but if they went down in a hurry, they came
back a little more rapidly. The piles of coffins were too much for
them — they were unused to it. The building soon after caught fire,
and the receptacles for the dead were all consumed.
92 MEMORABILIA AXD
GRAVE MATTERS.
The Lone Grave in the Capitol Grounds.
The lone grave in the Capitol grounds has caused considerable
inquiry — Capt. Lunsford, a member of Lee's Legion. A statement
was published some time ago, purporting to have been written by a
descendant, to the effect that Capt. Lunsford died in Charleston, of
yellow fever, was brought to Columbia and buried in the southwest
corner of the State House grounds, because the property belonged to
him. This is altogether a mistake and incorrect, to say the least of
it. A yellow fever subject would never have been allowed to leave
Charleston ; it would have taken from sixty to seventy hours of fast
travel to have gotten through, as it was long before railroad days ;
besides, in the original map of Columbia, the four acres of ground
bounded by Senate, Assembly, Gervais and Richardson streets, was
set apart for a State Capitol and necessary grounds. My old friend,
Mrs. Hillegas, knew the circumstances, and was present at the fune-
ral of Capt. L. He was a member of the Legislature, died while that
body was in session, and having been an officer in Lee's famous
Legion (although the name cannot be found on the rolls), this honor
was accorded him. The additional four acres to the west were pur-
chased by the State many years afterwards when it was decided to
erect a new Capitol across Main street. The property on which the
town is located formerly belonged to the Taylor family. Col.
Thompson Earle, a nephew of one of the surveyors, heard his uncle
say that when the proposition was made to buy the property, that
the proprietor declared, "they were going to spoil a d — d good cotton
plantation to build a d— d poor town." His prophecy was not real-
ized by a mill site. See the application ?
Mrs. Hillegas' sister, Miss Stanley, was engaged to be married to
Mr. Henry McGowan. The lovers had a falling out, and in a fit of
pique, Miss Stanley married a young Frenchman, named Le Comte —
whose special business seemed to be fiddling. He lived but a short
time. At the funeral of Capt. Lunsford, the estranged lovers met
accidentally (everybody walked to funerals in those sensible days),
talked over their affairs, promptly repaired to a minister and were
made man and wife.
Mrs. McGowan and Mr. Andrew Wallace were the standbys of
the Methodist Church for many years. When funds were needed,
the one or the other of these liberal church members would say,
when appealed to, "Well, if Sister McGowan can go a hundred, I
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 93
reckon I can; or if Brother Wallace will put up fifty dollars, I will."
Mrs. McGowan was a wealthy woman for those days. She ran
McGowan's Ferry and afterwards was the principal stockholder in
the Broad River Bridge.
Not Afraid of the Dead — Nervy Woman.
We had nervy women in the old days. Drs. John and James
Smith, physicians and surgeons, procured a corpse from Potter's
Field — the Coast Line Freight depot occupies a portion of the lot —
and being pursued, hurriedly entered their home and hid the prize
under the bed of their fearless sister, where it remained two nights
undisturbed. The occupant of the bed declared that it did not an-
noy her in the least. She passed an eventful life and finally com-
mitted suicide, it was generally believed. The bereaved husband
was not disconcerted, but married twice afterwards, and finally died
in a lunatic asylum.
Malaria and Riley's Whiskey.
A large number of Irishmen were brought here to work on the
canal; but the charge was that Barney Riley's whiskey (Mr. B.
kept a "convenience" in the vicinity) and the malaria from the river
were too much for even the sturdy sons of Old Erin, and hundreds
of them were laid away in the old burial ground. Many of the
small stones, with "I. H. S." inscribed upon them were still standing
at the time of the great clearing up.
Potter's Field Used by All Classes.
Potter's Field was for a length of time used for the burial of all
classes of people — rich and poor, black and white. The first mer-
chant in Columbia, who occupied a store, northwest corner Main
and Boundary, in what was afterwards known as "Cotton Town,"
and who was reputed to be a man of wealth, was deposited there
with his wife, under marble slabs, and with a substantial brick en-
closure. When the premises were disposed of to the railroad com-
pany, the relatives of the dead merchant in Connecticut were notified
that the remains would be shipped to them if they so desired, but
they paid no attention to the matter. Messrs. Walter S. Monteith
and W. S. Reamer secured the contract to remove the bodies, before
turning the premises over to the railroad officials, but I never heard
of any disinterments being requested. Mrs. M. W. Stratton claimed
and received the brick enclosing the remains of an aunt and uncle,
however. The old head and foot-stones went somewhere.
94 MEMORABILIA AND
IV hy Major O'H anion zvas Buried Here.
Major James O'Hanlon, of "Log Castle," as it was called, married
one of the Myers sisters from the lower part of Richland District.
The Major was an earnest admirer of Gen. Andrew Jackson, and
declared that if the latter was elected President of the United States,
he would walk to and from Washington City to see him inaugurated.
Jackson was elected, he kept his promise, and felt that it actually bene-
fited his health. His wife died some years before the Major was
called away, and was buried in the Myers family burial ground. The
Major and his brothers-in-law did not get along amicably, and when
it was reported that Major O'H. could not survive the illness which
actually carried him off, Mr. W. M. Myers, who was of an irascible
temperament, swore that the remains should not repose in his family
lot — that he would dig up his carcase and feed it to the hogs. The
sick man was informed of the circumstances, and left directions that
his body should be interred in Columbia, and it was done.
Myers vs. Tradewell — The Unf ought Duel.
Mr. William Myers (he was Intendant of the town for a term)
was regarded as a fearless man; but for once his courage failed him.
He had a difficulty with Capt. James D. Tradewell, and fractured
his skull with a stick. The head was trephined and the wounded
man recovered in a wonderfully short time. A challenge followed,
and the parties repaired to North Carolina to settle the matter — a
long trip to be taken by horse power. Mr. M.'s courage, like Bob
Acres', "oozed out at his finger ends." At the appointed hour.
Capt. T., with his second, Mr. Edward Young, put in an appearance,
as also Major Smart, Mr. M.'s second : but the doughty and usually
plucky opponent was not on hand. Major Smart attempted to take
the place of his principal, according to the rules of the code duello;
but Captain Tradewell refused to meet the substitute — very properly
and sensibly declaring that he respected Major Smart as a gentle-
man ; but his grievance was not with Major S. but with Mr. M. The
affair had a fatal termination, however ; for Mr. Edward Young con-
tracted a severe cold, which resulted in his death in a few days.
His aged father soon followed him. Mr. Myers returned to his
plantation, and was not seen in Columbia for ten years. Had he
flatlv refused to fight when challenged, he would not have been cen-
sured, as his courage was undoubted. It was just a case of "stage
fright," or unwillingness to "fight."
So far as I know, there never was but one other back out in a duel
in this State ; and in that case the poor man died of chagrin.
AXKCDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 95
Mistakes on Tomb-stones.
In the thirties and early forties, Mr. James R. Wood and his good
wife taught "the young idea," etc., on Richland street, the site now
occupied by Ebenezer Lutheran Sunday School building. Mr,
Wood had turned seventy when I was placed under his instruction
in 1840. He told us he was a Revolutionary soldier, and, I think,
an officer, but whether from this State or another, I cannot say. He
had a full head of snow-white hair, and his complexion was Indiany
and a mass of wrinkles. He taught in the good old whipping days
and knew how to use his weapons — a whip and a flat ruler. He
made no distinction — girls got punished as well as boys. One day,
he had Miss McKinney before him (afterwards Mrs. Coleman
Walker), a very pretty girl; taking her hand in his, he said in a
pleasing way, "It seems a pity to slap such a delicate hand." The
culprit turned and smiled at her comrades, thinking she was going to
"get off," but in a few seconds there was a whack, a yell, and the
deed was done. There are a few of these scholars — less than a
dozen that I know of — now above ground. Three sisters, who shall
be nameless, as age is not a desirable admission ; Capt. Wm. H, Dial,
of Madison, Fla., Air. John T. Fetner, of this city, and this individ-
ual. The old gentleman departed this life in 185?, and the tomb-
stone, in the First Presbyterian Church-yard, imparts the information
that his age was about seventy-two. Certainly must have been a
young soldier. This is only one of many evidences that tomb-stones
are not to be depended upon for reliable information.
In the Yanderhorst vault, in Magnolia Cemetery, Charleston, a
lady member of the family is reported to have died in Columbia,
during the burning of that city, February 2-1, 1865 — when we know
that the Shermanizing occurred February IT, 1865; many of us,
too, are aware of the circumstances attending the death referred to.
The patient was being removed from her burning dwelling when
death ensued.
Of course, it would be improper to refer to compliments paid to
the deceased, while their good deeds are so terribly exaggerated.
Undertaker Sqnier Measuring the Dead.
In the good old days '"fore de war," ready-made coffins were un-
known. Mr. A. C. Squier was the principal undertaker, and it used
to be said the old gentleman would move around the corpse, gesticu-
lating slightly, and apparently sympathizing with the bereaved ones,
when in reality he was getting the measure of the subject, prepara-
torv to buildinsr his oround-house.
96 MEMORABILIA AND
Fearful Loss of Life — The Gen. Lyon.
Overcome by the terrible condition of things in Columbia after
the burning, numbers of citizens who had relatives and friends North,
determined to accept the offer of Gen. Tecumseh Sherman to fur-
nish transportation to them to Xew York. They followed the army,
and finally arrived at Wilmington. N. C, where two steamers had
been sent by the Washington authorities to convey the refugees to
Gotham — the Gen. Lyon and the Gen. Sedgwick. A lady friend of
mine, with her husband and children, went aboard the Lyon, but
something, she could not say what, prejudiced her, and she prevailed
on all of them to go ashore, saying she would remain in Wilmington
until she could get back to Columbia. Her husband remonstrated
with her, but go on the Lyon she would not. Finally they succeeded
in obtaining passage on the Sedgwick. Two days afterwards the
Lyon was burnt, not a soul on the crowded steamer being saved, so
far as known. A young Englishman, named Hunt (son of Mr. E.
Hunt, who came here to 'eat the State House), attempted to reach
the Sedgwick, but as he was being hauled aboard, fell back exhausted
into the water and was drowned. It is believed fully thirty Colum-
bians lost their lives on the ill-fated steamer.
Don't Bet with an Undertaker.
I was in the coffin department of a well known undertaker some
years ago, when he was preparing a six-foot casket for a subject
who was my exact height— six feet three inches. I claimed that it
was too short, and offered to bet twenty-five cents to back my judg-
ment. It was accepted, and I got inside to settle the point. The
lid was put on, and I came out loser. As it was removed and I
raised up, a darkey put his head in the door. The sight was too
much for him, and he left hurriedly. It was never found out what
he wanted.
Old Potter's Field Despoiled.
Very few corpses remained long under ground when deposited in
old Potter's Field. The prominent physicians would have young
men studying under them — Drs. Wells and Toland, Gibbes, Fair and
Crane — and bodies were being constantly exhumed for use by these
voung to-be disciples of Esculapius. Tom Dunkin and his half-
witted nephew, Bob Xeal, two fishermen, would occasionally be em-
ployed to watch for the grave-robbers ; but a quart of whiskey prop-
erly administered to the one and a silver quarter to the other would
send them off on a "wild goose chase," it was said.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 97
Darkeys and Sunday Funerals.
In the good old times there was invariably a funeral service at
Potter's Field on Sunday afternoon over some colored individual
\\ h< • Had died a month or two before, perhaps. The question might
be asked by a looker-on. "Who's dead?" and the reply frequently
would be. Sister Jane or Brother Williams, "but he have to wait he
turn." The service after the sermon would be of a novel nature.
Deceased's friends would sing a refrain or two, until the excitement
got high enough, when the "holy dance" could be practiced. One
of these productions would be repeated several times, and then some
one would strike up something that he had "ground out," and the
others would "catch on." The following I remember to have heard:
Oh, feed off o' milk-white honey, my Lord;
Feed off o' milk-white honey;
Feed off o' milk-white honey, my Lord,
To de dying Lamb.
Reconstruction, education and the dying off of the old stock has
caused a material change — perhaps it may be termed an improve-
ment.
Uncertain.
In old Potter's Field there were a number of curious inscriptions — ■
si ime cut, others merely painted on a piece of board. Here is one
that attracted attention for a time, but the board soon rotted away :
Remember, man, as you pass by,
As you are now so once was I ;
As I am now so you will be,
Prepare for death and follow me.
Some doubter added :
To follow you I'm not content,
'Cause I don't know which way you went.
Hangman's Rope Good for Fits.
A member of the famous sand-hill clan was hanged for the mur-
der of one of his neighbors. As he was about to swing off, one of his
relatives who stood near called out, sufficiently loud to be distinctly
heard, "Good-bye, Jim ; take good care of yourself." Can't say
whether or not the advice was regarded — he was pronounced dead,
however, in six minutes. The corpse, with the rope still around
the neck, was taken possession of by the relatives, who started with
it for their sand-hill home, but stopped at the grocery of Messrs.
E. & G. D. Hope, northeast corner of Main and Blanding streets,
to make a peculiar request. They told Mr. Ed. Hope that a piece
of the rope that hung a man was good for fits, and that they would
7 — M
98 MEMORABILIA AND
give him the piece on the body for a bottle of whiskey. Mr. H.
declined the rope, but gave them the whiskey to get rid of his un-
welcome visitors.
Effects of Prayer on a Hard Case.
One of the same class — McGilberry Goings, by name — was badlv
cut with a knife by a boon companion, and it was thought that he
would certainly die. His poor old mother appeared on the scene,
and said to her dissolute son, earnestly, "Pray to God, McGilberry ;
maybe he'll help you !" The wounded man raised himself with diffi-
cult}' to his knees, and called out: "Lord, this is me. McGilberry
Goings. I never asked you for a favor before : but if you help me
this time, I'll be good." He recovered, but I never heard whether
the promise was fulfilled. He made a good soldier, and I think a
Yankee bullet carried him off, as he seems to have dropped out of
sight.
A great many of these sand-hillers were confirmed clay and rotten
wood eaters ; loved whiskey, but cared little for substantial food.
They volunteered almost to a man, and rendered efficient service to
the Confederacy — many of them yielding up their lives. There are
a few of the descendants of the old stock still left. But the names
of Medlin, Goings, Boyer and Crummy are seldom heard now-a-days.
Buried Alive.
About sixty years ago, Julia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harney
Riley, a stout, healthy girl, was taken ill and apparently died. She
was buried in St. Peter's Church-yard. About a year afterwards,
Mary Jane, another daughter, died, and the bereaved parents, as
they had a large family, decided to have a vault constructed. When
the receptacle was completed, the two bodies were disinterred and
put in the vault. The coffin in which Julia's remains had been
placed was split in two or three places, and on examination the body
was lying face down. She had evidently been in a trance.
Husband and Wife Died Same Day.
In the southeast corner of First Presbyterian Church-yard and in
Elmwood Cemetery are graves which attract but little attention, and
their peculiarities are apparently unknown. They are the resting
places of two couples who died on the same day. In the first, Rev.
D. E. Dunlap, first pastor of the church, and his wife ; in the last.
Mr. and Mrs. William Fogo, refugees from New Orleans. Mr. L.
H. Travet, formerly drummer for the Arsenal Guard, died while his
wife's bodv was being consigned to the grave.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. ( J9
OLD TIME DANCING.
"Sashay All! Sashay More!"
Porter, a bench-legged darkey shoemaker, belonging to Mr. James
Fenton, and John, a pumpkin-colored harnessmaker, the property
of Mr. Levi Sherman, and afterwards of Hopson, Sutphen & Co.,
were the principal purveyors of music for the numerous dances in
and around Columbia — the one with his fiddle and the other with his
tambourine. It was the custom (and it was a hard matter to dis-
continue it), to have the "figures" called: "Hands All Round!"
"Sashay All!" "De Sashay!" "Fore and Back Two!" "Sashay
More!" Mr. John A. Moore, a lawyer, who had taken up the danc-
ing fever at a late day, and consequently was not thoroughly versed
in the meaning of this calling by one or the other of the colored
musicians, became quite indignant at what he thought was a too
free use of his name ; so when the set was through with, he went up
to Porter, and in an angry tone of voice demanded how he dared
call his name out so publicly, and without "a handle, too." "Why.
boss," quickly responded the frightened fiddler, "I didn't call your
name 'tentionally." "Yes, you did. I was sashaying as well as I
could, and you kept yelling, 'Sashay, Moore !' I'm tempted to break
every bone in your infernal body !" "Jes dis, boss. I mean, 'keep
on sashaying' till I change the figure," said the excited darkey. Mr.
M. received the explanation pleasantly, but several who had gathered
around were much tickled at the affair, and for a long time after-
wards the young men would speak of him as "Handle Moore."
Porter "got religion" and when he became a free man, took up his
residence in Orangeburg. Some time afterwards, I wanted to get
up an old-fashioned dance, and sent for Porter to come up and play
for us. He told the messenger that he didn't like to disoblige his
old friends, but he "done bruck up the fiddle, and was trying to serve
the Lord."
//; the .Inns of Morpheus.
Away back in the forties, we had two very pretty and stylish girls,
or young ladies — Harriet and Virginia Sullivan — residing at the
northwest corner of Main and Richland streets. Their mother was
left a widow, with three children to support — a boy and two girls;
and managed to drive the wolf from the door by keeping a little
variety store. The girls used their needles to aid the old lady. Har-
riet was very quiet and retiring in her manner, while Virginia was
a little inclined to be hoydenish. They were seldom seen apart.
Balls and dancing parties were not considered complete if the "Sul-
100 MEMORABILIA AND
livan girls" were not present, and they were always blessed with
partners in abundance. At the famous "Citizens' Ball," one nieht
a young man was very persistent in trying to secure a dance, being
refused several times. He suggested the sixth or seventh cotillions.
"I am engaged until the seventeenth set," protested Virginia, pro-
voked at his persistence. "The seventeenth. Miss Virginia, you will
be reposing in the arms of Morpheus," was the reply. "I want you
to understand, sir. that I repose in nobody's arms ; and I'll require
my brother, Jack, to whip you for your insinuation," said the indig-
nant young woman. An apology was attempted, but Virginia would
not listen to him, and walked off indignantly, holding on to the arm
of her amused partner.
Undertaker Danced, or Tried To.
At my wedding — a good many years ago — among the one hun-
dred and fifty persons present, were two old friends, H. P. Dougal
and M. H. Berry. A room down stairs had been prepared by Mr.
McKenzie for the "Stags," while dancing was to be participated in
by the younger folks. Mr. Dougal divided his time between the
males below and danced a little above. All of a sudden it struck him
that his friend Berry had not been on the floor : so he hauled him
out of a corner and insisted that he should join the dancers. "I
haven't got on my dancing boots, H. P.," pleaded Mr. B. "Come
here," was the answer ; and before Mr. B. could surmise what he
was doing, Mr. Dougal had carried him into the hall, removed his
boots, made his unwilling friend get into them, and then got him
back and placed him among the dancers. He went through one set,
much to the gratification of his jovial friend, who had called up a
number of the parties from down stairs to "See Berry dance." It
was his first appearance in that role, and I am sure it was his last.
Dancing in these Later Times.
In my youthful days I was a great devotee of Terpsichore, and
received instruction from the most skillful and graceful teachers,
Madam Feugas and Moiis. Berger, at different times. Could trip
"Sailor's Hornpipe," "Highland Fling," Mazourkas. polkas and all
the fancy dances of the day ; didn't admire waltzing, but managed
to swing my partner. The present style of dancing don't please
me — the motion of the arms too much like a pump-handle ; besides,
the rapid exchange of partners is not agreeable, to say the least. We
used to have cotillions, Spanish Dance, polkas, waltzes, winding up
with the ever popular Virginia Reel — and you retained one partner
to the end of the set.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 101
EXPERIENCES AFOOT.
Starting a Paper Under Difficulties.
In 1865, I was connected with The South Carolinian office (as I
had been for twenty-one years previously) ; and after frequent reports
that were received as to the intentions of "Tecump." and the promises
made to the soldiers as to the license that would be allowed them
when they captured the capital of South Carolina, it was decided to
remove the printing material to the upper part of the State. Mr.
DeFontaine undertook to manage the job and to look after it when
it reached its destination. Mr. Timrod and myself remained here
and issued a "thumb-sheet" two or three times a day (not a pleasant
occupation, with shells dropping in the neighborhood of the build-
ing) — having retained the small amount of printing material neces-
sary. Of course, that went up with the building (located on south
side of Washington street, near Main). The invading army left on
Monday, the 20th of February, and I immediately began making
arrangements to get out a publication of some sort. Nothing at all
in that line was obtainable here, so as soon as the rain ceased and T
could make some sort of provision for my large family (numbering
twenty-six souls), I started for the up-country to gather up such
printing material as I could. With three companions, I footed it —
leaving Columbia on Sunday, the 26th. We got to Little River that
afternoon, and felt terribly disappointed in discovering that the
bridge over that stream had been destroyed. Mr. Henry Leitner.
who lived a short distance off, suggested that we go to his home
and remain for the night ; that the river appeared to be falling, and
it was possible that we could cross Brown's Bridge ( a private enter-
prise. I surmise), four miles further up, the next day, although it
was now under water.
Swearers vs. Prayers — The Difference.
We had a good supper, comfortable beds, substantial breakfast
and an excellent dinner — having delayed our departure as late as
possible, hoping that the high water would show an appreciable fall.
Mr. Leitner accepted a reasonable amount in Confed. currency, and
sent us on our way rejoicing. I must say, however, that he larded
his remarks very freely with "cuss words." We found the water
two or three feet deep at Brown's Bridge, but, like Cousin Sallie
Dillard, we took off our shoes and socks, elevated our garments, and
waded across. At night we reached a Mr. McConnell's, near Fresh-
102 MEMORABILIA AND
ley's Ferry. After some persuasion, we were allowed to spread our
overcoats, shawls and blankets and repose in the main room of the
building — a colored attendant cutting the necessary wood, for the
night was very cold. We made ourselves comfortable. For sup-
per, we had a chapter in the Bible and prayer ; for breakfast, another
prayer and a selection from the sacred book — the proprietor stating
that the Yankees had robbed him of everything. We tightened up
waistbands, and started for the supposed ferry. Our darkey joined
us in the lane, declaring he never had eaten so much in his life in
two meals. We imparted the information that we were hungry,
and the reason assigned for it. "Mars. Julian, I didn't believe white
folks would mistreat one another that way. His niggers told me
they saved all his provisions by hiding it in the woods. I'll go right
back and get plenty for you." "Not a mouthful," was the unani-
mous exclamation. We decided that a praying man might be a
"good" one, but for a square meal, give us a professional "cusser."
No boat at Freshley's, so struck up the right bank of the river, and
reached Alston about midday, and there a widow with two children
took us in and cared for us two days, and would take only five dol-
lars from each of us. We attempted to pay her more ; she would
not have it — said the Yankees had given her flour and bacon when
they raided the depot, and she wouldn't charge her people big prices.
We gave her a couple of blankets, a woolen comforter and several
other useful articles, when she wanted us to take back the money —
which, of course, we wouldn't do.
The river was still out of its banks. The man who owned the
only boat in the vicinity refused to put us across the river, saying
it was too dangerous. We offered him $1,000, and then $1,500,
but he would not sell. We informed him, as we had used every
proper means to get the use of his boat, we would be compelled to
"press" it — as it was a matter of necessity to get away from there
on account of the increasing crowd. Besides, we could see people
on the other side of the river who evidently wanted to cross. He
said his double-barrel gun said we couldn't take the boat. Our reply
was that three Enfield rifles and several pistols said just the oppo-
site. He drew in his horns. The boat was tied to the bank proper,
about twenty-five feet out in the water. We fastened three railroad
sleepers together, and a colored man, who claimed to be a boatman,
floated down, secured the boat and returned safely. The boat was
filled with people, and crossed and recrossed several times. I sup-
pose it was returned, but never heard anything more about it. Mr.
Bowers, an old railroad employee, took us on his repair train to
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 103
Newberry, where we were the lions of the night — for it was long
after midnight before we could get through with the anxious inqui-
rers, as we were the first arrivals from the burnt city. It was gener-
ally believed that Columbia had been burnt, as there was such a
brilliant reflection in the sky on the night of the 17th.
Could obtain no printing material in Newberry ; so I struck out
for Abbeville, where I secured necessary type from Mr. Hugh Wil-
son, of the Abbeville Banner, on satisfactory terms. Then to Green-
ville, where paper and ink were obtained. Got material safely to
Newberry ; rode around the country five or six miles looking for a
team ; finally secured one from a Mr. Barr, by paying $1,000 and
two sacks of salt. Started for Columbia in our heavily-loaded team,
accompanied by two passengers — Major John Waties and his wife —
the former seriously wounded. Got bogged in a field trying to get
around a bad place in the road — had to unload, "pry out" the mules,
build a causeway with fence rails, working in fully three feet of
mud, and after ten hours delay, got going again. Neared the river
Sunday morning, when an old acquaintance (Mr. G. B. Nunamaker)
appealed to us for something to eat. We divided what we had with
him (not knowing the condition of things at home), and in return
he proposed to ferry us over the river in his batteau, which was
successfully accomplished. A friend who had succeeded in procur-
ing a horse, lent the use of the animal, and I got home, but so be-
grimed with mud that my family did not know me. Got washed
off and into another suit of clothes, returned to the river and worked
the balance of the day in getting a flat constructed ; gave the parties
a jug of whiskey to bring my wagon across first, and got over all
right early Monday morning.
The next important thing was a press. Looked through the ruins
of The South Carolinian office, and secured the cylinder of what is
known as a ready-proof press in fair condition ; made a wooden
model of the necessary bed, which Mr. Richard Tozer and Mr.
Robert McDougal cast for me with black lead moulds in brass and
copper. Hunted and secured glue and molasses, necessary for rol-
lers : improvised kettles, made the rollers, and on the 21st March,
1865. issued the first number of The Phoenix. Wm. Gilmore Simms,
Esq., had charge of the editorial helm : while Messrs. John A. Elkins,
W. W. Deane. James H. Diseker, F. H. Marks and Win. H. Tutt
(the latter having accompanied me in my peregrinations) set the
necessarv type. Mr. John McKenzie assisted in various ways. Mr.
Simms picked up a printer's composing stick, and brought it to the
"office," suggesting that the first lines of the new issue should be set
10-t MEMORABILIA AND
up in it, which was done. The little six-by-nine was heartily wel-
comed. Col. Ruger, of Georgia, was in charge of the post at the
time, with headquarters on the south side of Washington street, near
Gates, while The Phoenix was gotten out on the west side of Gates
street, near Plain. A line of couriers was kept up between this
point and Augusta, Ga., and by that means Col. R. furnished the
little sheet with papers and news from the outer world.
The citizens of Augusta, with their noted liberality, sent a four-
mule team, loaded with provisions, to the needy people, donating
both provisions and team. Hearing of a printing press for sale in
Camden, I secured the use of the team from the Mayor. Dr. Thos.
J. Goodwyn, with the understanding that a proper guard would be
provided. This was done, and off we started for Camden, reaching
that Revolutionary town the same evening. We walked the entire
distance, hoping to bring down a bird (keeping the team constantly
in sight, as the boys were returning from the army, and very justly
were not particular as to whose animals were borrowed), but not a
feather was to be seen. I bought the press and some other material,
loaded up at once, camped in a wagon yard, lay awake all night
under the vehicle, and had several inquirers ; but the muzzles of two
double-barreled guns drove off the unwelcome visitors. We started
early the next morning, and had another river experience — this time
on the Wateree. The flat was not securely tied. on reaching the
opposite bank, and the fore wheels got caught against the muddy
bank. Our colored driver, Harrington, did the best he could with
the mules, and a number of individuals, who were anxious to get
over the river, put their shoulders to the vehicle, but budge it. they
could not. An interested looker-on, a little colored boy, finally broke
out: "Uncle, dem mules needs cussin'." "Mv mules knows nothin'
about cussin'," responded Harrington, indignantly." No, I sees dat,"
was the quick reply. "Jes' let me try 'em." After several more
efforts, with unfavorable results, our driver got down, at my sug-
gestion, and told the boy to get up. and see what he could do. The
little imp did so, and in a few seconds he let out such a volley of
expletives that the astonished animals walked right up the bank.
On reaching the top of the cut, Harrington called to the boy sav-
agely to get down, which he did at once, but jumped over the other
mule, and ran off, screaming with laughter at the disconcerted
teamster. Harrington growled about the matter the balance of the
day. We reached Columbia the same night — Tom Beard and myself
walking the entire distance (twenty-nine good sandy miles) and
bare-footed at that time, having taken off the heavy boots for a while,
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES.
and the feet having become so swollen that we could not get on the
necessary appendages again. We pitied the weary mules with their
heavy load, and lightened it as much as we could by tramping. I
don't pretend to justify swearing, but it certainly had the desired
effect in this instance. After the close of the war Tom settled in
New York and amassed something of a fortune in the drug business.
Many a time have we talked over our Greenville, Camden and other
old time matters. He was a Democratic Alderman in Brooklyn,
Xew York, for twelve years ; was stout and enjoyed excellent health,
but fell from a trollev car two vears agfo and was killed.
TEDIOUS AND LENGTHY JOURNEY.
Eight Days from Columbia to Philadelphia.
In June, 1865, I deemed it necessary to go to Xew York to try
and obtain printing material. Dr. Gibbes heard of it. and insisted
that I should take my "smaller half" along, as the travel ( ? ) might
do her good; besides, it was more pleasant and just about as cheap
as medicine. So with such cash as I could raise, and two watches
to "spout," if necessary. I determined to go. My wife and six-year-
old son were bundled into a Jersey wagon, and about 10 o'clock at
night we started on what proved to be a journey of eight days to
Philadelphia — seventeen hours covers the time now. Our horse gave
out, and we hired a four-mule no-spring wagon in Winnsboro to
convey us to Youngsville ($'25 in specie). The team was driven
rapidly, but we did not catch the train (never had dyspepsia since).
Spent the afternoon and night in Concord Church — entertained and
worried by the discussion between the old and young negroes belong-
ing to a lady in the neighborhood, as to whether they should finish
cutting the wheat, or leave at once — they had just heard of the eman-
cipation proclamation, and took advantage of passing showers to
crowd into the church to talk it over — the old darkies declaring that
"old miss" had always treated them "mighty good." How it ended
I never heard. Two nights gone.
Carried nearly 300 Letters.
YVe had no mail facilities at the time, so when it was learned of
our contemplated trip, we were deluged with letters — about 300.
I had to decline undertaking to carry packages. The cars did not
run at night, and we could only get to Chester in one day. Then to
Catawba River, where passengers had to travel down a steep em-
106 MEMORABILIA AND
bankment, get through a ploughed field, cross the river on a pon-
toon bridge, then climb another steep hill, and after an hour's wait,
be transported slowly to Charlotte, N. C, in a freight car, with a
badly worn wheel. All night in Charlotte — night fourth.
Next day reached Greensboro and quartered in the cars as best
we could for the night. The stations were all crowded with Federal
soldiers going home to be disbanded. Night No. 5. ' Next day made
Danville. There met Josh. Johnston, son of my former employer,
Mr. W. B. Johnston, who invited us to supper with him. I declined,
telling him we had supplied ourselves with necessaries, and it was
useless to spend his money. "Spend my money!" he exclaimed;
"not a bit of it — I'm telegraphing for Uncle Sam." "Why, Josh,"
I said ; "I thought you were too good a Confed. to take the oath."
"No oath about it." he answered warmly; "they needed telegraph
operators — Yank, or Confed. ; didn't say anything about the oath,
and offered $20 a week and board. I was sick and lame, had my
pay, fifty cents, and jumped at the offer, and that's all there is to it,
except we've got a jolly set of boys, have good meals and comfort-
able quarters. Bring your wife and child and come to supper with
me — -they'll all be delighted." We went. The table was filled with
telegraph men, who were just as pleasant as frhey could possibly be,
and insisted on waiting on us — the wife reminded one of a sister,
another an aunt, and as far as the child, he seemed to be a remem-
brancer for all of them. Presently one of the men whispered some-
thing to Josh, and the latter inquired if I had a "pass." "No," I
replied, ruefully; "didn't know one was needed." "I mean a rail-
road pass." "No," I answered. With that one of the "Yanks"
left the table hurriedly, and before we finished our pleasant meal
was back again, and handed me a pass for myself, wife and child,
either to Richmond or City Point, signed by the General in com-
mand. I thanked the young men heartily and returned to the cars,
to pass the sixth night. Our party of Confeds. by this time num-
bered eight or ten, a lady or two among them, getting back to Vir-
ginia. I got into conversation with a young Sergeant from Wis-
consin, and as the soldiers outside wanted to crowd in, the Sergeant
suggested that I should lie across one door and keep out the John-
nies, while he would take the other and keep out the Yanks. I knew
my job would not be a difficult one. While we could hear con-
siderable profanity and a good deal of growling, we had very little
trouble during the night. Twice parties got in at the windows, but
the Wisconsian told them they must get out, as he had charge of
the ladies. Something was said about rebels; but the plucky fellow
. ANECDOTAIv REMINISCENCES. 107
succeeded in hustling- them out— saying he had fought four years
against the men, but if it became necessary he would fight for the
women on this occasion. That argument was unanswerable.
We left the next morning on a literally packed train — Josh and
several of his companions coming down to see us off. (I will here
say that the Johnston family has been literally wiped out ; they in-
herited consumption from their mother.) When the conductor
looked at my pass, he said he was sorry to say that he would have
to collect fare — that General Somebody's name should have been on
it. I told him how I came to have the document, and he replied that
he regretted it exceedingly. I then asked him to come to me again ;
that I would get the money out of my belt, and pay him. He didn't
return, and I didn't hunt him up. The train slowed up at Burkes-
ville. and I told the "wee wifie" to go over to the other train with
the boy and I would try and get the trunk. This I succeeded in
doing — a train hand transferring it for me — and I saw nothing more
of the avaricious conductor, for such I believe he was. We safely
reached the Petersburg train ; soon moved off, and the conductor
came along, honored my "pass." and said in a jolly way : "Rebs, eh !
Well, I fought you fellows hard : it's all over now ; my brakeman
is a reb : as soon as I take up my tickets we'll go and have a drink
in my caboose." Sure enough, he came back pretty soon, bringing
his rebel brakeman. and we adjourned to his quarters. He pre-
sented me with a bottle of what proved to be really fine whiskey,
and when the train reached Petersburg, gave us a hearty hand-shake
and left, while we continued to City Point, nine miles below, situated
on an elevation over the James River. After a slow ride, in a long
train filled with soldiers, we reached City Point station in a hard
rain. I went out and attempted to secure our trunk, but was unsuc-
cessful, being informed that baggage would not be unloaded that
night. Returned to the car and found the soldiers growling about
a woman and child being in the way — that they wanted to get read}
to sleep. I started out with my wife and boy. when a gruff but
kind-hearted officer followed us to the door, and directed us to go
to the apology for a hotel on the elevation at the left ; to describe our
baggage, and he would try and have it sent up. I thanked him, and
we proceeded to climb an everlasting flight of steps, finally reaching
the top. It was an apology for a hotel, sure enough — one of those
traps that could be pulled down and re-erected at short notice. In
about half an hour, I heard scuffling of feet, and a voice saying,
"Here's a trunk for a rebel." I went forward and claimed it. and
requested that it be put in our room, which was promptly done by the
108 MEMORABILIA AND
four men. I asked them to take a drink from the conductor's bot-
tle, which they did, and praised it highly, saying soldiers seldom
got hold of liquor like that. As they were about to leave, one of
the men asked me when we expected to leave, and I said, by the first
boat in the morning. Much to my surprise, he replied, "All right:
we'll come for your trunk in time." We retired and passed a plea-
sant night (No. 7). Sure enough, the whistle of the approaching
steamboat had just been heard, when our obliging soldiers came
in, picked up the trunk and started for the landing, we following as
closely as possible. The heavy trunk was put aboard, and then I
thanked the bearers and offered them another drink, which they
refused politely; the tender of money was declined, they touched
their caps and retired.
The steamboat, like the cars, carried a number of soldiers, but
they were not interested about sleeping quarters, so did not come in
contact with them. The eighth night was spent comfortably, and
we passed through Baltimore in the morning, and then on to Phila-
delphia, where we arrived about 3 o'clock in the day. At the hotel,
a waiter piloted us up one flight of stairs, and was about to take the
second, when objection was made about going so high to sleep. The
waiter carelessly said, "Where you come from?" I replied, "South
Carolina ;" when his tone changed ; he invited us into a parlor, then
hurried down stairs, and in a few minutes up came the smiling land-
lord, and assigned us quarters on the parlor floor.
Arriving in New York the next day, I was forcibly struck with
the changes and improvements in the great city — hadn't put in an
appearance there since 1859 ; and we had a good opportunity of
seeing, as we rode up to Harlem in a carriage. Will jump de-
scription, as it has become ancient history almost. I had a number
of slaps. "Hanging Jeff Davis on a sour apple tree, ' "rebel," etc.
Wouldn't Exchange Old Shoes for New Ones.
We went into a shoe store to procure a pair of protectors for the
little wife's feet. On removing the ungainly leather coverings, the
shoeman was struck with their appearance, and inquired where they
were obtained. "They were made in South Carolina,'' my wife
replied. "Madam, if you will let me have these, I will give you in
exchange the finest pair of shoes I have in the store," said the inqui-
sitive dealer. "No, sir ; I'll do no such thing," and she paid $5 for
the new ones, carrying the old ones proudly away. "Why didn't
you let him have them?" I inquired. "I wasn't going to let him put
mv shoes in his window, marked 'Rebel woman's shoes,' " was her
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 109
indignant reply. Through Benjamin Wood, Esq., and William Con-
nor, Esq., the type manufacturer, I obtained necessary material and
started on my homeward journey highly elated at my success.
I secured passage on the little steamship, Granada, and got on the
good side of Capt. Baxter, who declared that my wife reminded
him so greatly of a dead daughter that he could scarcely keep his
eyes off her. We had the first mate's state-room on deck, and Capt.
B. had his station a few feet off. He would forget himself and use
"swear words," then turn and apologize to his "daughter," as he
called her ; but would soon forget again.
When we reached the wharf at Charleston, the old city presented
a picture of desolation. It was the 4th of July. One carriage and
one dray were the only vehicles to transport about 200 passengers
with their baggage. I recognized the drayman as an express mes-
senger, and he directed me to go to the "Waverley House," as the
"Charleston Hotel" was filled to overflowing, and he would get our
trunk to us after a while. We tramped off. The cobble-stones on
the Bay had been taken up and used on the fortifications, and not
a human being to be seen in that street or vicinity. When we reached
King street, a company of colored zouaves marched gaily along.
I'll admit that I felt depressed. After supper, I took a short stroll,
and found any quantity of handsome ( ?) waiter-girls, of the "Dew
Drop Inn" and "Canterbury Hall" style.
The next morning, we boarded the cars for Orangeburg, and
found we were about the only white passengers, and they made
things lively. Conductor Kennedy tried unsuccessfully to quiet
them, but had to "grin and bear it." They did not seem to be vici-
ously inclined — merely spiritually impregnated.
At Orangeburg I secured vehicles, but was compelled to pay $25
for passage for myself, wife and child, and $8 for the trunk. It
took us just twenty-four hours to make the trip, but we arrived in
Columbia all right. When I heard some time afterwards that Jona-
than Dark, the livery man and "sport," had been "thoroughly
squeezed" in Union through thin slices of cork used for "coppers,"
that could be easily blown off when they were not in the proper
place, I slightly rejoiced, as I felt he was getting paid back for his
$25 extortion. I pawned a watch in New York for $100, but was
able to return the money at once by my old friend, Capt. Thos. W.
Radcliffe — my share of the receipts of the "mutual benefit" having
gone a little over a "century" during the time I was off. Notwith-
standing our terribly long journey, no ill effects were experienced
by any of the trio.
110 MEMORABILIA AND
THE EARTHQUAKE IN CHARLESTON.
Tide Stationary for Four Days.
In July, 1886, I had determined to print an afternoon paper on a
small scale in Charleston, and for five weeks did remarkably well,
subscribers and daily sales increasing satisfactorily. The premoni-
tary shocks of earthquake in the neighborhood of Summerville, of
which I had been informed by a gentleman from there, had been
ridiculed by the News and Couirer; but they sent a man up. who
came back and declared that it was more severe than had been re-
ported. This may seem like ancient history, as it occurred nineteen
years ago; but several circumstances happened which I have never
seen referred to, so I give them.
Scenes and Incidents.
On Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, the display of meteors
was truly wonderful — they were flying in every direction. Sunday
night I was at Sullivan's Island and there was nothing to obstruct
the view, and it was simply grand. On Tuesday night, the olst
of August, at 9.55, there was a terrible shake and buildings were
damaged in every direction. I was located on east side Meeting
street, near Queen, and the first shock threw down one or two
columns in front of Hibernian Hall, which created such a terrible
dust, that I could not see, and instead of running over to the Mills
House, where we were quartered (my wife, daughter Maggie and
son Gilbert), that I got twisted and ran down Meeting street. Just
then came the second, and I got a portion of the debris in my face
and on my body, and down I came across the railroad track. I could
only have been laid out a few seconds, when I was lifted up by
a tall gentleman, who escorted me towards the sidewalk, where we
tripped over the fallen telegraph and telephone wires. He stood
me up and I told him I thought I could navigate, when he left me.
My family gathered on the open lot on northeast corner of Queen
and Meeting streets, where several of our carriers soon joined us
and stuck there the rest of the night. Fire had been discovered
in several rooms in the Mills House, caused by lamps being upset.
My son and myself ran up through the rooms and with any water
or means accessible, extinguished the incipient' flames. We found
that parties were removing their furniture from this lodging house,
when our carriers proffered their assistance, and in an astonishingly
short space of time they had our three rooms emptied. The willing
darkies returned to the square and there remained.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. Ill
Said it Felt Like an Earthquake.
An elderly white man, who was evidently a watchman, had a room
in the yard in the rear of onr office, where he took snatches of sleep.
He often passed through the office, and my daughter would give
him exchange papers, which gratified him very much apparently.
That day, I happened to see him, and he casually remarked, "If I
was in my country, I would think there was going to he an earth-
quake." "Why," was my inquiry. "Oh. I feel it in the air," he
replied. That night I was moving around, and I came across him.
"I was hunting for you. Where are the ladies? I am making
some biscuit, cooking some meat and making coffee for them." I
thanked him and showed him where our folks were. He told them
to wait a little and he would bring them some supper. "Are you
not afraid to go in the house?" inquired my wife, earnestly. He
smiled quietly and replied : "I use to earthquake all my life." And
he soon returned with a waiter, covered with a clean cloth, and the
necessary viands. I offered him a dollar, and he gave that peculiar
smile again, and said : "The ladies kind to me, I kind to dem." He
waited and carried away the dirty dishes.
Thought It zvas the Last Great Day.
There were seven fires in different sections of the city, and I tried
to think of everything I could in Revelation to help me in my sur-
mise that it was the grand wind-up. I went to but one fire, and
that was in King street, near Broad, and saw several firemen thrown
from the ladders, but none of them seriously hurt. Chief O'Neale
drove from one outbreak to another, and succeeded in holding all
in check except the lower King street, and that was confined to two
buildings. These men surely are entitled to valuable consideration.
I had contracted the habit of using a cant expression of doubtful
propriety, borrowed from an old gentleman from Maine a short
time before that. He would tell some wonderful stories of occur-
rences in his northern section of this great country, and if any one
should express doubt, or ask him to repeat what he had said, he
would look around, apparently surprised at the doubter, and add,
"If it aint so, I'll go through hell a hopping!" and that settled it
I had foolishly been using the expression on account of its origi-
nality. Have never done it since. Among my other hurts, my hip
pained me, and caused me to limp. "Going through hell a hop-
ping!" rung in my ears. To add to the disagreeable feeling, I went
into Mevers' saloon, northeast corner of Meeting and Chalmers
streets, and called for brandy and soda, an expensive drink, which
112 MEMORABILIA AND
was furnished. I laid down a half dollar, when the proprietor
looked at me, then at the coin, and said, in a dolorous tone of voice,
''We not take no money to-night." I nearly collapsed.
Miraculous Preservation of a Train.
An excursion train was rushing towards the city, and when near
where the terrible curves in the railroad track, which meant disaster
and death to hundreds, it was flagged down by a colored man, who
could not be found afterwards. The passengers soon raised a sub-
stantial purse for their deliverer, but as "Simon Suggs" said with
reference to "Yellowlegs," "the critter had evaporated."
The dew was so heavy for several nights, that the dampness went
through umbrellas as if they were sieves.
First Positive Information in Columbia.
The telegraph wires were down in every direction; but I had an
intimation that the Southern expected to be ready for work in the
morning. I stood from 11 P. M. until T A. M. and succeeded in
getting the first message through to Columbia. A thoughtless
woman told my wife that a message had been received, saying that
Columbia was wiped out. The "vrow" took it very coolly, saying
her husband was waiting now at the corner of Chalmers and Church
streets, she understood, to get a dispatch through as soon as the office
opened in the morning.
On Wednesday night, at a late hour, a voice was heard in rear
of the open square between the City Hall and the Fire-proof build-
ing: "My friends, I have studied these seismic troubles thoroughly,
and I assure you that you can go to your homes and beds and rest
quietly. I doubt if there will be any more of these disturbances ;
but if there should, it will not be before this time to-morrow." He
had just got that far, when the famous rumbling noise was heard'
in the West, and a first class shock followed. "Hang the d — d
cuss !" was the response of several parties ; but the scientist disap-
peared over a back fence and was heard of no more.
A friend invited me to go with him, get a drink and visit some
of the other camps ; and a queer sight it was, you may rest assured —
babies asleep in carriages, with umbrellas and other improvised cov-
erings ; delicate females walking around disconsolately, and men
trying to be philosophical, but a muttered damn would escape occa-
sionally, and the dew was wetting everything.
Mr. Leiding, the Hasel street merchant, was taking a bath when
the trouble began. He did not take time to consider, but grabbed
his silk hat and gold-headed cane (recently presented by his em-
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 113
ployees) and rushed into the street (similar case described in Mark
Twain's "Roughing It"). It is said he met a gentleman and some
ladies, raised his hat and was about to proceed further, when he was
informed of his unpresentable condition. He disappeared. In a
dwelling on the Battery, which was thrown out of plumb, neither
doors nor windows could be opened, and a courting couple who
were terribly frightened, reposed in one another's arms — the male
in trying to open a window, got his hands into a vase of water,
screamed to his inamorita, "My dear, it's a tidal wave — let's die in
each other's arms." Parties succeeded in opening the door from
the outside, and brought in candles, when the surprised parties
sneaked out.
Too Busy to Attend to His Injuries.
My friend's invitation to take a drink resulted in our rinding an
Italian's place open on the north side of Market street. His head
and shirt bore indications of bloody work having been done. I
asked him the cause, saying I didn't think you'd fight at such a time
as this. "No; de earthquake," was his reply. "But there have
been no shocks to-night," I said. "No, I got it last night, when the
ceiling fall." He had been so anxious to make money, that al-
though twenty-six or eight hours had elapsed since he was hurt, he
couldn't take time to have his wounds dressed.
Sudden Death of a Charitable Alan.
A stout, hearty man, whose sobriquet was King (but it was gene-
rally thought it was assumed), who had a saloon on King street,
near Market, seemed perfectly cool, made no braggadocio about not
being afraid, etc., but told the police officers that anybody who
needed food or drink, and no money to pay for it, were invited to
call at his place and get it as long as it lasted. King's nervous
system must have been terribly worked up, for he was found dead
in his bed a few days afterwards.
Steamers Kept Fires "Banked."
Nearly all the steamers in port had their holds thoroughly scoured
and white-washed, and notified the city authorities that as many
parties as so desired would be housed. It was understood that fires
were kept "banked" in anticipation of the dreaded tidal wave which
had decimated Lisbon and Caracas. I found quarters on the tramp
steamer "Amethyst," and the next night I was complaining about
my bones sticking through, when one of the watch offered me his
bunk, as he was on duty all night — a custom in port, I believe. I
8— M
114 MEMORABILIA AND
determined to take the chances of other disagreeable occupants, and
turned in. About daylight, I was aroused by muttered conversa-
tion to the effect that "the water was out." I was much excited for a
time, but found the crew took it coolly — so I simmered down. The
tide had been stationary for four days. Many of the crew had
visited all parts of the world, but this was the first time they ever
heard of such a thing. Capt. Vogel, of the Jacksonville steamer,
afterwards reported that on his way down there was a terrible dis-
turbance of the water some miles off ; his belief was that a heavy
outgoing tide met the incoming, and by Providential means broke its
power. I don't give this as anything more than my own idea. When
I heard the expressions about the water being out, I took it to mean
that a careless fireman had neglected to watch the supply of water
in his boilers. I spent one night in the passenger cars at the North-
eastern Railroad, but never want such another experience on ac-
count of the terrible mosquitoes.
A bar-room, corner of Unity alley and Bay street, was keeled com-
pletely to one side, and looked as if it would fall momentarily. A
thirsty mortal went in, notwithstanding repeated warnings of the
danger. His reply was: "I am just dying for a drink, and am
going to have it." He'd die happy, then, sure.
A friendly pilot informed me that he was keeping "open house"
on Broad street, and invited me to walk in and take a "nip." The
front of the house had fallen out, and a bed-room and dining-room
were freely exposed.
Wind Taken Out of Smartey's Sails.
A natty-looking individual arrived at the Charleston Hotel about
II o'clock one night, where a party of us were congregated exchang-
ing reminiscences. The streets being dark, he could see nothing
of the destruction on his way. He seemed disposed to be smart, and
jocularly remarked, "Been having a little shake here, eh ! Guess it
wasn't much." Just then came the premonitary rumble, and the
assembly departed for the street. "When's the next train for the
North?" excitedly demanded Mr. Smartey. "One o'clock," he was
informed, and he departed by it.
Only Slight Shocks Since.
There have been several shocks at different times since the me-
morable 1886 'quake, but no loss was reported. It is to be hoped
that the seismic troubles have finally been settled. The inhabitants
are perfectly willing.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 115
HOW THE RADICALS WERE DRIVEN OUT.
Commanders Somewhat Alike.
During the "red-shirt" occupancy of our city and surrounding
country in 1876, quiet was maintained and outbreaks prevented by
the persistent and incessant efforts of Generals Wade Hampton and
M. C. Butler — of course, as was generally conceded, through the
will of Divine Providence. The thieves had the aid of the United
States soldiers, but the good people of the State won the fight. The
cases are not exactly parallel, but it reminded me forcibly of a
reported conversation between pickets the night before the battle of
New Orleans: "Hello, Yank!" called one of the Johnny Bulls.
"Hello, yourself!" was the answer. "We're going to clean you up
to-morrow. We've got on our side Lords Packenham, Keane,
Gibbes and Major Wilkinson, with the flower of the British army."
"Guess not, Bull. We've got on our side Lord God Almighty, Lord
Jesus Christ, Old Hickory Jackson, Generals Carroll, Adair, Coffin,
Morgan and Col. Wade Hampton, with the Kentucky Riflemen, and
we are sure to lick you," was the response of the confident Yank.
Through Providential aid and the uncommon attention, thought-
fulness, sleeplessness and sense of Generals Hampton and Butler,
backed up by the invincible "red-shirts," the enemy were overawed
and defeated, and a bloodless battle won. Ex-Governor Chamber-
lain is pleasantly received whenever he puts in an appearance here.
"By-gones are by-gones." The ex-Gov. don't carry this out fully,
as he has mounted a wig.
Would Eat Crackers and Cheese First.
During the red-shirt campaign, our old and patriotic friend,
Abram Stork, had his hands full. His restaurant was packed with
the "shirts" at all hours, and, of course, there was a deal of waiting.
Some one asked if there was not another restaurant in town. "Yes,"
was the reply of a neighbor ; "Fine's, down on the next square."
"Go in that Radical place," was the answer of young Blease, of New-
berrv ; "I'll eat crackers and cheese first." Abram overheard it,
and directed the disgruntled youngster to walk right back — he should
have breakfast at once, and he got it.
"Hold the Fort" — Ticklish Times.
During the joint occupancy of the House of Representatives by
the Wallace (or Democratic) members and the Mackeyites, of
116 MEMORABILIA AND
course, no actual business was done. Mr. Arthur Glover, of Edge-
field (of the famous Glover-Gomillion vendetta), stalked around,
loaded down with three heavy repeaters, to look after Ed. Mackey
in case of trouble, while a big black man, apparently similarly
equipped, lounged about, prepared for Speaker Wallace. Every-
body felt as if there was bound to be an explosion of some sort at
any minute. On the particular night referred to, one of the colored
members addressed Speaker Mackey as to a question of privilege.
"State your question," was the reply. "I wanted to ask, as long as
we are 'holding the fort,' if we could sing a campaign song, 'Hold
the Fort for Hayes and Wheeler?'" "No!" "No!" and hisses
came from the Republican side, the Democrats remaining mute.
The song was feebly sung, with constant interruptions.
On its conclusion, Mr. James Callison, of Edgefield, jumped to
his feet and addressed Speaker Wallace to this effect, "It is cus-
tomary in a minstrel show to have a jig dance after a song. If not
out of order, I would ask that that part of the programme be carried
out." This proposition was answered with laughter and groans.
But the incident was closed there.
Wouldn't Pay Taxes to Support Radicals.
The recent death of Mr. John Myers, of the Hopkins' Turnout
section, brings to mind the fact of his persistent refusal to pay taxes
on his large amount of real estate situated in that vicinity. He is
said to have sworn not to buy a new hat or pay taxes until the Radi-
cal power was broken, and he didn't. When the Hampton Govern-
ment was recognized, Mr. Myers came to Columbia, paid his back
taxes, bought him the latest style "tile," and returned home.
There were a number of others who forcibly resisted deprivation of
their property by the thieves.
Didn't Want to Help the Undertakers.
An inoffensive, garrulous old gentleman from New Jersey,
bought several pieces of property at tax sales, and contrary to the
advice of a legal gentleman who knew the dispositions of some of the
to-be disfranchised owners, he went down to get possession of his
property, as he supposed it to be. At two places he was met with
loaded guns, and an intimation that he had better "git," or he might
be carried off. Mr. B. went back to the officials and demanded his
money, saying he was not disposed to help the undertakers. The
money was returned.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 11?
THE LATE UNPLEASANTNESS.
Licked But Didn't Know It.
Gen. Samuel McGowan was on detached service at the First
Manassas battle and rout. After the Federals were panic-stricken
and in full retreat, Gen. M. and two or three others rode over to the
left some distance, when they discovered a body of fully ten thousand
apparently fresh Yankee troops, who it was thought intended to
attack the pursuing Confederates in the rear. One of the party
galloped back in search of Gen. Beauregard, to report the matter to
him, but he could not be found for some time — the information, it
appears, had been communicated to the General. Soon afterwards
the ten thousand fresh men were "taken with a leaving" and rapidly
disappeared — the panic was contagious. This had nothing to do
with stopping the pursuit of the flying enemy to Washington, how-
ever. The Confederates were "done up" from heat and fatigue, and
could by no means have traveled over the twenty-two miles to the
Capitol City. Gen. McGowan came through Columbia on his way
home after the battle and made a speech from the piazza of Hunt's
Hotel (where the Y. M. C. A. building now stands), in which he said
the Confederates were whipped up to 12 o'clock, but they did not
know it, and so the fight went on.
"All's Well"— Happy Omen.
Col. Joseph Daniel Pope addressed the large assemblage the same
night. In one of his beautiful delineations, he exclaimed, "Watch-
man, what of the night?" and paused for a few seconds; just then
the steepleman in the tower attached to the City Hall, called the
quarter-hour, "'All's well!" "Happy omen," said Mr. Pope, and
concluded his remarks.
Knew What Baby Food Was.
Jeweler George Bruns during a lull in the fight at Spottsylvania,
secured a haversack filled with substantial food. The fight was
renewed, and George soon was severely wounded in the leg. Hos-
pital accommodations were scarce, and the surgeons were forced to
operate on the field. He was laid upon the ground, and his haver-
sack utilized as a pillow. After the leg was amputated, he felt
hungry, and requested that his knapsack be used for a pillow, so
that he could sample the contents. A surgeon complied with the
request, and George tackled some hard tack and ham, but he was
weak from loss of blood, and his jaws refused to do their work.
118 MEMORABILIA AND
"Dr.," he said to his attendant, "I think I'm bad off." "No," was
the reply; "you are doing well — I'll soon fix you." "Cavis," called
out the kindly-disposed surgeon, "take some of this hard tack and
fix it according to my directions." Julian went off but soon re-
turned with a mess which the wounded soldier pronounced the nicest
thing he had ever tasted. The "tack" had been soaked in hot water,
salted, then well buttered with a piece of fat bacon. The wav I
heard of it was, through my telling George, on one occasion, that I
was going home to eat baby food, and suggested that he would not
appreciate it, after telling how it was prepared — "Huh! bet I do,"
and then told this experience. The wounded man had not yet been
removed from the improvised operating spot when John Renno came
along, inquired as to his condition, and as to whom he should
write, brought out his improvised writing materials and communi-
cated with Bruns' family. The wounded soldier recovered, and is
muchly alive ; but his chums, Julian Cavis and John Renno, have
joined the great army beyound.
Recognizing a Good Samaritan Enemy.
Wm. C. Anderson served during the war, and for a length of time
acted as courier. On one of his rides during the heat of the day on a
lonely Virginia road, he heard cries for "Water" proceeding from a
fence corner. He rode up to the spot and found a wounded Yankee,
who was suffering for want of the fluid. Willie emptied the con-
tents of the canteen into the soldier's vessel, gave him what he had
in his haversack, broke off several branches of neighboring trees to
protect him from the hot rays of the sun, and rode rapidly away, to
make up for lost time. About two years after hostilities had ceased,
Anderson went to New York, and one day, while standing in front
of the St. Nicholas Hotel counter, a man strolled in, looked at him
on one side and then went round on the other. "I hope you'll know
me when you see me again," was Will's sharp interrogation.
"You're a reb," was the response. "Well, what of it?" Anderson
replied. "Just this much," answered the stranger, putting forth
both hands ; "there is no one in this world I would rather see. Do
you remember, on the 20th of June, 1864, relieving a wounded
Yankee soldier in a fence corner in Virginia — giving him your can-
teen of water, emptying your haversack, and cutting branches of a
tree to protect him from the sun?" "Well, I have done such things,"
said Bill. "I'm one of those individuals, and you must go home
with me at once to see my old mother, who has prayed for you every
night since."
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 119
After some little remonstrance, Anderson accompanied the man ;
but they had a hard time getting to the residence, for they stopped
in several saloons, where the ex-soldier told of the affair, and every-
body wanted to treat the "rebel." On their arrival at the home of
his gratified acquaintance, the old mother kissed and squeezed him to
such an extent that he declared his clothes slackened on him. He
couldn't get away for several weeks, and then only on the promise
of visiting them again soon. A liberal amount of funds was offered
for his acceptance, which Anderson positively refused. Finally, he
accepted a horse, which was much ridiculed for his looks, but his
stride was wonderful. Poor Anderson took cold at a fair in Char-
lotte, which fell on his lungs, consumption developed, and he died in
a few months — well cared for by his friends.
"Asa Hartz" — A Rhymstcr.
Maj. Enoch George McKnight, who made something of a reputa-
tion at Johnson's Island, Lake Erie, during the war (the scene of
the famous prize fight between John C. Heenan and John Morrisey,
in which the former broke his hand and succeeded in breaking
Morrissey's nose), by his amusing poetic and prose letters over the
signature, "Asa Hartz," addressed to "Jack o' Diamonds; my Left
Bower." I only remember two lines of an appeal he addressed to
the Federal Commissioner of Exchange :
And haven't you a Federal Maje,
Who's suffering in some Dixie cage?
The appeal was in such an amusing strain that orders came to
release Major McKnight, and George went on his way rejoicing.
His health was completely broken down by his confinement on
Erie's bleak island, and he died soon after he reached his adopted
home in New Orleans. "Asa" was a fellow-apprentice in The South
Carolinian office. As a youngster, he was famous for his rhyming.
His father was a crusty old codger, without a grain of sentiment.
George had his rhyming machine in order one day and produced
several samples — on names of the office boys, etc. — which were very
clever. He then scribbled the following lines, and handed them
politely to his father :
Father, when I'm dead and gone.
And the sun shines o'er me bright,
Just drop, if you should pass along,
A tear for George McKnight.
The old man looked over his spectacles at him for a few seconds,
hit him a clip over the head, with the exclamation, "Go to your
work, you lazy rascal," and resumed his type-setting.
120 MEMORABILIA AND
George's remains repose in Greenwood Cemetery, New Orleans.
He served in a Louisiana Regiment.
Reasons for Not Paying Debts.
George's ideas of men in and teum were like some others in this
world. On the well remembered 15th of April, 1849, when we had
quite a fall of snow, the poor fellow came around to see me, rigged
in a linen suit, without socks or under-clothing. My mother noticed
this omission and spoke to him about it. "All I got," was his reply.
Addressing me, she suggested that as a certain suit of clothes was
too small for me, that I had better sell the articles to George at a low
figure. A bargain was struck, and the boy was rigged out with a
complete suit, including socks. He was to pay a certain amount
every week until the debt was wiped out. Two years elapsed with-
out any payment being made, when one day I reminded him that the
clothes had never been paid for. He gave me a quizzical look, and
replied : "You must think I'm a blamed fool ; I never pay live people,
and the dead don't need it."
Negro Jails Not Interfered With.
It was believed that the Federal soldiers were interested in the
freedom of the slaves, and aided them in many ways. It is true,
quite a number of the would-be freedmen joyfully followed the
army, but the majority repented, and tried to get back. I met a
number of them at the North during a business trip in June, 1865,
and at different times later on, all of whom regretted leaving, and
used every means possible to get South again — many even walked
back. One poor fellow offered to give any kind of paper, that he
would serve me all his life, if I would only take him home. Strange
to say, although Sherman's men — bummers, we'll call them — de-
stroyed property indiscriminately, they surely spared two "nigger
jails," as they were termed, and they are standing to this day. And
I know of one case, at least, where a black man who, it was said,
used some insulting remarks to a Yankee soldier, was shot dead
on the spot. Gen. Sherman passed at the time and inquired into the
matter ; his comment was to the effect that his men were excited.
"Bury him in a hurry, boys ; don't be so brash another time." And
the murdered colored citizen was buried on the southwest corner of
the Bull and Lumber street lot.
Laboring Under Disadvantages.
Vim and energy will accomplish wonders. Dick Clark, a gallant
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 121
North Carolinian, went into the army at the age of fifteen, and
after a few months was discharged ; went home, spent a month and
then returned to the front. He was wounded two or three times,
but not seriously until two weeks before the surrender, when he lost
a leg — the limb being taken from the socket. Poor Dick could
neither read nor write — having worked in the field until he was of
school age (which used to be considered in the country sixteen
years), when he went forth to fight the battles of his country. As
soon as he was able he set to speculating with a slim capital, and
was successful. He opened a grocery store in a small way at the
northeast corner of Washington and Assembly streets, and by look-
ing carefullv after the pennies, the dollars began to accumulate.
He would sell tea, coffee, butter, etc., by the nickle's worth, and as
he stood well with the merchants, and could order in limited quan-
tity, he was not forced to carry an expensive stock. He invested in
real estate after a time, and at his death had accumulated in the
neighborhood of $40,000 — a comfortable sum for his widow. This
shows what perseverance can accomplish. He was hospitable in
every sense of the word.
What's In a Name?
"Cicero Deo Demosthenes Plato Kelly" was the name given to a
child by his proud parents — evidently with the supposition that he
would be an only son. Others arrived in due time, but all the names
were allowed to remain. The boys simply called him "Jim." On
one occasion, while on picket duty in Virginia, and becoming lone-
some (Corporal Tom Harper having forgotten to send a relief),
the owls disturbed him with their "Who! who! whoopee?" Kelly
misunderstood the voices of the night-birds and thought it was an
inquiry as to who he might be. "Jim Kelly, of South Carolina," he
yelled. "Who in the devil are you?" Jim never forgave Corporal
Tom for the lonesome watch he caused him to have on that occa-
sion. Jim died about a year ago.
"Very Undignified, Capt. Kemper.
When hostilities began, the talented lawyer, Maxcy Gregg, Esq.,
volunteered — receiving one appointment after another until he be-
came a General. Capt. Del Kemper, of Alexandria, Va., with his
fine artillery company, was attached to Gen. Gregg's command. At
the battle near Vienna, a railroad train loaded with Federal soldiers
was heard approaching, and Kemper was ordered to give them a
warm reception, which he did. At every discharge of his guns, the
122 MEMORABILIA AND
Alexandrian would throw himself on the ground and shout lustily.
Gen. Gregg rode by and observing Capt. Kemper's effusiveness, said,
in his usually brief, sharp tones, "Very undignified, Capt. Kemper."
"Can't help it, General; just see how the Yankees are skeedad-
ling!" The excuse seemed sufficient, and Gen. Gregg rode on.
Capt. Kemper was severely wounded soon after, and spent several
weeks in Columbia ; he corroborated the statement.
I have in my possession the sheath-knife carried by Gen. Gregg
throughout the war.
Generals Hampton and Howard.
On one of Gen. O. O. Howard's visits to Columbia, during Re-
construction days, he met Gen. Hampton accidentally, in the pres-
ence of Major James G. Gibbes. The Major introduced the two
Generals. Howard promptly put forward his one hand towards the
Carolina General, who withheld his for a few seconds, saving, "I
cannot take your hand, sir, until you retract your statement as to mv
connection with the burning of this city." "General Hampton," was
the prompt reply, "I freely admit that I was mistaken in that matter ;
and hope that now you will forgive and forget it." Hampton
nodded and a hearty hand-shake resulted.
No Meat in the House.
Soon after Sherman's departure, we found ourselves in the fix of
the boy, who is described as diligently digging for a length of time
in search of a ground-hog. When the suggestion was made that he
couldn't find the animal, the indignant reply was, "I've got to have
him ; the preacher is coming and there's no meat in the house." We
were out of that necessary provision, when a solitary pig came in
sight. Chase was made, but the animal had passed through that
experience before ; he turned and ran in different directions, but
finally we overhauled him in what I supposed was the neighborhood
of his home. About the time he gave his last squeal, a colored
woman came up and claimed the carcase. As we had chased the
animal fully an hour and had several falls, as he back-tracked and
ran between the legs of some of the parties in pursuit, bringing them
to the ground, his claimant agreed that we should make an equal
division. Adding, "Dat pig was de debbil. Soldiers run him, weuns
run him and youuns run him ; tank God, he dead, sure !" We dined
on fresh pig that day.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 123
VENERABLE SUBJECTS.
Oldest Church in Columbia.
Inquiries are often made as to the oldest church in Columbia. As
far as I can learn, the Presbyterian is the oldest denomination. The
Rev. D. E. Dunlap. of that church, was "called" to the Columbia
Church in 1794. 1802 is the first direct reference to the Methodists,
with Rev. John Harper. In 1802, the Methodists and Presbyterians
held services alternately in the State House. St. Peter's (Roman
Catholic) is the oldest building, having been erected in 1824. It
will soon disappear, however, as the construction of a new edifice is
about to begin. This will leave the pennant with Trinity. This
building has recently been again overhauled. The ornamental pro-
jections along the roof — pediments, perhaps, would express the
meaning — were covered with lead ; during the war, that weighty
ornamentation was removed and sent to the Yankees,, but in a shape
they didn't appreciate — bullets, and the projections displayed their
nakedness until recently. Pretty little cherubs formerly adorned the
interior of the building ; some prudish members of the congregation
objected, and leaves in wreathy shape covered the supports or ap-
pendages, but this did not satisfy the objectors, and finally the figures
disappeared. Old Washington Street Methodist Church was dedi-
cated in 1832. The Baptist Church, which formerly stood on the
southeast corner of Sumter and Plain streets, held the age honor;
but Sherman's men destroyed it — having been informed that the
famous Secession Convention met there. "If a lie can be justifiable."
as the priest commented, in "The Two Orphans," "it would be in this
case." and I believe the party received "absolution." It was the
(then) new building, still standing, where that august body met to
inaugurate a bloody war ; but got frightened at several cases of
small-pox, and adjourned to Charleston, where the Secession Ordi-
nance was ratified.
Obeyed the BciicJi IV arrant.
A very eccentric character was Mr. O. Z. Bates. When quite a
young man. and acting as Deputy Sheriff, he was sent with a "bench
warrant" to arrest and bring before the Court a man named White-
cotton, who resided in the forks of the Congaree and Wateree. The
family were looked upon as "dangerous." Mr. B. took his double-
barreled gun and went down to the house of the party called for.
The storv is that as he approached. Whitecotton fired at the officer,
124 MEMORABILIA AND
but without doing him any injury. Bates replied with his gun, and
Whitecotton fell dead. The body was put in front of the Deputy,
who quietly remounted his horse, and brought what there was of
Whitecotton before the Court. The tragedy struck terror to the
members of the family, and it is understood that they pulled up
stakes and went to Texas.
Visit of La Fayette — 1824.
At the invitation of the American people, Marquis de La Fayette
visited America, and in his tour, spent several days in Columbia. A
committee of citizens and military escorted him from Camden, and
they were met a few miles from here by a similar committee from the
capital. As the procession reached Taylor's Lane, a goose deliber-
ately stepped in front and waddled to Main street, turned to the left
and continued to Gervais, then through Gervais to the residence of
Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph, north side, between Marion and Bull, where
the bird of Jove flapped his wings, squeaked and waddled away again.
This information was given to me by Mr. Lewis Levy, a member of
the Richland Volunteer Rifle Company, and corroborated by Mrs.
Grace Ann Sternes, who was one of the little misses who strewed
flowers before the honored guest. A military guard of honor was
on duty during the stay of the Marquis. The next morning, while
receiving guests, an elderly colored man rode up, got down, hitched
his mule, and asked permission to see "Mars. General;" that "Old
Marster" was sick and couldn't come, so he sent him ; that he cooked
for their mess, and "Mars. General" would remember him. After
some delay, he was allowed to enter the reception room unannounced.
Depositing his hat carefully behind the door, he advanced, the crowd
politely giving way, as they truthfully surmised that something of
interest was about to occur. The old fellow gave a sort of military
salute, and addressed the Marquis: "Mars. General, I's powerful glad
to see you again." La Fayette put his hand to his head for a few
seconds, and then with a pleasant smile gave a hearty grip to the
gratified darkey. They chatted for several minutes, when the visitor,
with a polite bow and an earnest, "Thank God, Mars. General, that I
see you once more; I ain't long for this world, nor you neither."
Reaching the sidewalk, he mounted his mule and departed home-
ward. It was reported that owner and slave died soon after. Mrs.
Rudolph was so overcome by excitement connected with the enter-
tainment of the nation's guest, that she became a lunatic, and died in
an insane asylum.
In the Metropolitan Museum at Central Park, New York, is a col-
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 125
lection of so-called portraits of La Fayette. The representations are
varied, and were evidently collected from all parts of the globe, as
the faces represent almost all nationalities. There's a similar variety
of George Washington.
Old Hotels or Taverns.
Rives' Tavern, on east side Richardson street, near Gervais, oppo-
site the State House, was the first hostelry with which Columbia
was blessed. Mrs. Margaret M. Martin told me that she stopped
there with her parents on their arrival from Scotland, in 1817. It
was afterwards called "Green's;" but for a number of years before
it was torn down to allow space for the new Capitol, it had been
discontinued for hotel purposes and was occupied by families. The
Indian Queen (northwest corner Main and Taylor) followed. Then
Briggs' (northwest corner Richardson and Lady) was erected by a
man from the North named Briggs, but no connection of the Green
family. Then came the United States, built also by Mr. Briggs. I
received my information from the good wife of Dr. F. W. Green,
who frequently attended dances in the hotels mentioned. She was
a daughter of the Briggs of bridge-building fame. The first pro-
prietor of Briggs' that I remember was Mr. Adam Edgar ; then
Mr. William Maybin, Col. A. H. Gladden (for a company), Messrs.
Janney & Leaphart until the Sherman fire. I know nothing of the
United States Hotel until Mr. A. M. Hunt took charge ; then turned
it over to Mr. T. S. Nickerson, who continued it until the burning.
Soon after the 1865 fire, he opened the Methodist College as a hotel,
with satisfactory results. Feeling that he must either expand or
"bust," Mr. N. disposed of his interest in the college hotel to Mr.
Wright and went to Georgia, where he carried on three hotels until
his death.
Columbia's First Important Fire.
In 1811, Columbia had its first extensive conflagration. The
flames broke out in a blacksmith shop in Davis' alley (now known as
Lorick & Lowrance's), destroyed the entire Main street front on that
side of the square (Plain to Taylor), and extending across the
street, wiped out the property from Plain street to the two two-story
buildings extending to the corner of Taylor — known as "Brick
Range," the principal stores in the town. G. V. Antwerp, John I.
Gracey, A. Young, Alfred North, Sherman & Stratton, Phillip
Myers, A. Alexander, Henry Davis, John McKenzie, Elias Pollock,
I. D. Mordecai, Cohen & Bell, the South Carolinian printing office
and others being sufferers. Col. Wade Hampton (our late General)
126 MEMORABILIA AND
and a sailor named Neville, who was visiting relatives here, are
entitled to the credit of saving that property (owned by Mr. Robert
Latta), for they worked energetically, and presented a sad appear-
ance when they came down from the roof — hair and whiskers singed,
clothing soaked with water, blackened and burned. The crowd
cheered them heartily. The fire department consisted of two small
hand engines — the Independent (white) and the Vigilant (colored),
with a so-called hook and ladder company (the principal occupation
of the members of the latter being to keep mischievous boys from
running away with the useless appendage whenever it was brought
to a fire). The members of the companies worked efficiently, and
prevented what was at first thought would be an extensive and de-
structive conflagration. Mr. Latta presented the white company
with a silver-speaking trumpet and gave Mr. Galloway Monteith's
colored boys a liberal "feed."
"Not Till I've Laced My Corsets."
During this famous Main street fire, Mrs. Alexander, the wife of
a clothing merchant, saw that her two young children were in safe
hands, and then proceeded coolly to dress herself. She was notified
several times that the building was on fire, and she must come out ;
but her sole reply was: "Not till I lace my corsets. I'm not going
to catch my death of cold." And finish the job she did, notwith-
standing the importunities of her numerous friends.
Dr. Blias Marks, of Barhaniville.
This well known and talented educationalist and poet brought into
prominence and kept to the front the first female institution in the
vicinity of Columbia during the early thirties. At Barhamville were
educated female representatives of the first families of South Caro-
lina, Georgia, Florida and other States, among them the mother of
President Roosevelt. Dr. Marks was an Israelite, but became con-
verted to Christianity, and connected himself with Trinity Church.
His first wife and several members of his family are interred in the
grave-yard connected with that church. A volume of his poetry was
published in 1850, and was favorably commended by the writers of
the day — George P. Morris praising the work highly, and publish-
ing lengthv extracts from it in The Home Journal, of New York.
Besides educating his brother's daughters, he showed his liberality
by requesting his aged mother, when making her will, to leave him
$5 only, and to bestow the entire property, consisting of real estate
and negroes, upon his less fortunate relatives. He was satisfied, he
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 127
said, that his children would never object to the provisions of the
will, but it was just as well to be on the safe side. Dr. Marks re-
tired from his famous institution during the early days of the war,
and was succeeded by Madam Sosnowski, an educated Polish lady,
until the latter part of 18G4. Barhamville buildings were destroyed
by an accidental fire, about twenty years ago, and the venerable
teacher passed hence soon after, at the residence of his daughter
(Edwina), Mrs. Chamberlain, in Washington City. He has a son
living in Plattsburg, N. Y.
Log Cabins, Coon-Skins and Hard Cider.
The Presidental campaign of 1841, which I remember distinctly,
was the most exciting of any known in this section. The Whigs
were vastly in the majority, and held meetings, where excited
speakers yelled to the delight of the assembled crowd, while log
cabins of varied sizes from 10x20 to tiny affairs, with coon-skins
nailed against the sides, and a barrel supposed to contain "hard
cider," was appended. The Democrats, with ex-Sheriff Jesse De-
Bruhl at the head, ornamented with red caps, paraded the streets,
and made headquarters in the circus building, which adjoined St.
Peter's Church on the north. The small boy was muchly in evi-
dence ; "Whigs eat dead pigs," "Democrats eat dead rats," and
similar expressions were hurled at each other by the youngsters, who
apparently took as much interest in politics as their seniors, and
fights were of hourly occurrence. The Whigs had campaign din-
ners at "D. Caldwell's Hotel," with the accompanying speeches, and
a full supplv of hard cider. Ladies would attend, and many of the
gentlemen wore ruffled shirts. Mr. Frank Root was a frequent
attendant. Hard cider was not considered intoxicating ; but on one
occasion, Mr. Root, in response to a suggestion, "Empty your
glasses," made the attempt, but could not reach his lips and the
contents took the beauty and the starch out of his neatly gotten-up
shirt front.
Another Little Face in the Picture.
Mr. Broadbent, an artist who painted a number of satisfactory
portraits — Capt. and Mrs. John Heise, C. V. Carrington, Charley
Bedell, A. L. Kline and a number of others — was called upon by
Mr. Lewis Elias to paint a family group. He explained to the artist
what he wanted, and inquired the price. He was informed of the
amount after the necessary calculation. Considering over the mat-
ter for a short time, he gave the order, and offered to pay part in
advance. This the artist declined. In due time the sittings were
128 MEMORABILIA AND
had and the work completed, much to the gratification of all parties,
and the cash promptly handed over. Several months elapsed, when
Mr. E. put in an appearance, with a quizzical look on his counte-
nance. After exchanging salutations, he broke out, "Mr. Broad-
bent, I come to see you 'bout the picture." "Anything wrong, Mr.
Elias?" was the artist's reply; "if so, I will try and remedy it."
"No," said Mr. E., stroking his chin, as was his wont ; "but Rebecca
present me with a fine little boy last week, and I come to see if you
can put another little face in the picture." Mr. Broadbent was
much amused ; but whether he succeeded in "putting in another little
face," I can't remember. I have traced the picture to the possession
of Mr. Israel, a son-in-law, who lives in Charleston ; and when I
again visit the city, I shall, Paul Pry-like, call and get a look at the
sixty-five-year-old picture.
Patrol and Street Duty — -"Run, Nigger, Run!"
Six days and nights of patrol and street duty was the law in the
good old days for all citizens between the ages of eighteen and sixty
years, or the payment of a tax of $3. The youngsters thought it
was quite a "lark," but one day or night's experience gave perfect
satisfaction, and I never heard of any one making a second trial.
Firemen were exempt, and the fire companies had full ranks, and
efficient work was done — no laggards were allowed to remain in the
companies. I remember an energetic man, who was always on hand,
on one occasion was marked "absent," and being called up at the
company meeting, answered "no excuse," and prepared to pay his
fine ; but before that necessary proceeding could be effected, several
indignant members jumped to their feet and insisted upon an expla-
nation, declaring they would have no man in the company who from
absence at an alarm of fire should give such an answer. Poor
Brooks wriggled, turned red and finally gave a satisfactory but un-
pleasant reason for not answering at roll-call. Objections were
withdrawn and he remained an active member until his return to his
northern home after the conclusion of hostilities in the so-called
"Civil War." Brooks came here to move the State House into
Senate street ; did his work satisfactorily, and was so pleased with
the condition of things, that he remained.
10 o'clock in the summer months — May until September — and 9
the rest of the year, were the hours for bell-ringing ; and then any
unfortunate negro caught without a "pass" was locked up for the
night, a whipping administered the next morning, and he or she
turned loose. "Skinning" over back fences was an accomplishment
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 129
practiced by both sexes. "Run, nigger, run, and get your pass," etc.,
was fully understood. Mr. Joshua Sowden ("Marse Josh," as he
was termed by the darkeys,) filled the position of Chief Marshal from
the time of his selection until his death. Mr. John Burdell was
another official who gave satisfaction, and he served until the reign
of the Radicals, when he removed to Kershaw County and became a
successful planter. He has paid several visits to his old tramping
grounds (horses were not in vogue then for police officials), ex-
presses himself pleased with the condition of things here and the
improvements made, etc., but prefers country life.
The Military and Fourth of July.
The old militia law in South Carolina was very stringent. Every
individual between the ages of eighteen and fifty was compelled to
do military duty, either in uniformed companies or the "Beats,"
as those God-forsaken-looking soldiers used to be called. The con-
sequence was Columbia had seven uniformed companies : The Rich-
land Rifles, Governor's Guards, Carolina Blues, Emmett Guards,
Greys, Flying Artillery, Richland Light Dragoons, and on regi-
mental or battalion parades, College Cadets and Cedar Creek Rifles.
Fourth of July was one of the regular parade days. The companies
would assemble at 6 o'clock in the morning, march to Taylor's Hill,
the Artillery fired a salute (sometimes the Infantry would also) ;
march down again, have a collation, and dismiss for the day.
Charleston was the military city, however, with twenty-seven uni-
formed companies, besides several "Beats." On the morning of the
Fourth the line would be formed on Broad street, extending from
the old Post Office clear to the Ashley River, and after review by
the General in command, with an elegantly uniformed staff, would
march to the Batten', fire a salute and be dismissed. You could hear
"ping! ping!" in the water, as the "Beats" would discharge their
guns, with the ramrods.
A very amusing incident occurred on one of these occasions.
Gen. James Simons had a magnificent horse, that he prized highly.
On the night of the 2d, some mischievous creature shaved the fine
tail of this favorite animal. Gen. S. was highly indignant over the
matter, but how to remedy the evil was what interested him. A firm
of saddlers heard of the trouble, and thought they could manufac-
ture a tail, which they proceeded to do, and it looked very well.
Gen. S. mounted his war-horse and was galloping down the line,
when there was an unmilitary-sounding yell. His suspicions were
excited, and he looked hurriedly around. To his horror, the false
9— M
130 MEMORABILIA AND
tail had become detached and fallen to the ground, and the denuded
tail stuck out nearly a yard in length. Spurs were applied and the
discomfited General disappeared in short order.
I hope the Legislature will re-enact the old militia laws— cut loose
from Uncle Sam — and run our own system : We'd then have in-
numerable military companies ; instead of having to struggle to keep
up two rigged in Khaki, there would be ten or twelve in varied rig.
There is enough esprit de corps to keep up the system. Let's have
our own military.
South Carolina Had First Steam Railroad.
South Carolina has the honor of building the first steam railroad
in the United States. There was a short line from Mauch Chunk.
Pennsylvania, which claimed it; but the New York Scientific Ameri-
can investigated the matter thoroughly, and endorsed the South
Carolina claim. The road was completed from Charleston to Au-
gusta, Ga., in the thirties, but it did not reach Columbia until 1842.
There was a "big time" in the capital city on the arrival of the first
train. The Washington Light Infantry and French Artillery (La
Fayette, I suppose,) came up from Charleston, besides a number of
civilians, to participate in the festivities. There was a barbecue on
the lot adjacent to the depot, with plenty of spiritual accompani-
ments — great tubs, filled with punch and lemonade, were scattered
around promiscuously — lager beer was not in vogue then. Ice was
something rare, except when winter reigned. My good friend,
Charles Neuffer, Esq., the genial German, superintended the fluid
distribution, and gave me several lemons, sufficient sugar and a big
lump of ice, to take home and prepare a lemonade for my mother.
The ice slipped and fell to the ground, and was left — I thought it
was dirty.
Mr. Henry T. Peake, afterwards Superintendent of the South
Carolina Railroad, was one of the first engineers, with the "Ravenel."
According to my recollection, the "Robt. Y. Hayne," a diminutive
locomotive, hauled the first train. Every afternoon crowds of people
would go down to see the train arrive from Charleston — the run
requiring twelve hours. The remark of an Irishman, who had sta-
tioned himself at a respectable distance from the locomotive, im-
pressed me very forcibly: "If that ain't hell in harness, what is it?"
Passenger cars, barrel-shaped, were much in vogue at one time,
but an unusual jar sent two of them rolling down a hill for a con-
siderable distance, injuring none of the passengers seriously, but
causing several to be troubled with something like seasickness.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 131
The W hip ping- post.
Years ago, there was a whipping-post law in this State, and it had
the effect of getting rid of bad characters. When a white man once
had "thirty-nine lashes on the bare-back," he disappeared and never
turned up again. I remember the names of only two men that I
saw punished or degraded (because the lashes were never laid on
hard) were William Rabun and Slocum B. Church. They left
before night.
Tar and Feathers.
Abolition ideas and conversation were not allowed here up to the
beginning of the war. Even the circulation of the New York
Tribune and other papers of a like ilk were prohibited. A man
named Powell, employed as a stone-mason on the erection of the
State Capitol, was foolish enough to persist in publicly expressing
his views as to negro slavery, notwithstanding repeated warnings.
Finally, Powell was seized, carried to the neighborhood of Fisher's
Pond, his clothing removed and cared for, and he was well smeared
with tar. then a pillow-case was opened and he was feathered. His
clothing was turned over to him and he left.
Sam Glover, a noted colored barber, was treated similarly for
good and sufficient reasons. He turned up in Washington City,
where he barberized until his death, but did not boast about the
matter of the "coat."
Veteran of Ninety-Eight and His Weapon.
In 1817, Mr. George Shegog, an Irish gentleman, daintily attired
in a bottle-green dress-coat, lined with white silk, yellow vest and
pants, wearing a white silk hat, the under portion of the brim tinted
green, put in an appearance here and remained something over a
year. The understanding was that he was the eldest son of a dis-
tinguished well-to-do Irish family. His visit was to a sister and
brother, who had emigrated from the Green Isle many years before,
and took up their abode in the capital town of South Carolina. The
sister married and had an only daughter (Mrs. John Agnew), who
also married and left descendants. Soon after the departure of the
elder brother, the mangled remains of the younger man were found
alongside the Greenville and Columbia Railroad, a short distance
above the Elmwood avenue bridge crossing that railroad. Mr.
George Shegog would sometimes sit in a thoughtful mood for half
an hour, and then in a dreamy tone of voice detail incidents in his
early life pertaining to the rebellion of '98, which were very inter-
esting. Mrs. Eugene Cramer has in her possession a formidable
132 MEMORABILIA AND
looking pike, with an axe and sharp hook attached, which it is
claimed was used in the famous battle of the Boyne Water, and
afterwards in the Rebellion of '98. A copper inscription on the
oaken handle so declares, and that it was brought over by Mr.
George Shegog.
Wanted Little Gold Crucifixes.
Mr. Lewis EHas was in business here until a few years before the
so-called "Civil War," when he removed to North Carolina — "Move
on," being the motto of the Israelites. When the volunteers were
about taking the cars for Mexico, he went among them, telling them
good-bye and distributing useful articles. His sage remark to some
of his individual friends was, "Boys, I don't exactly believe in 'em,
but when you get to the halls of the Montezumas, and are gathering
up little gold Jesuses, think of Elias, and put away a few for him.
Mr. Elias belonged to a long-lived family. When he was nearly
seventy years of age he took a trip to Germany to see his mother.
Old-Time Toddy-Stick, &c.
I was speaking before Mrs. Lucile Rion about the customs in old
times — the days of loaf-sugar and other pure articles — when I re-
ferred to the adornments of a gentleman's sideboard with a bottle
of brandy, sugar-bowl and an oak toddy-stick, pitcher of water, ne-
cessary glasses, etc. She quietly left the room, and in a few minutes
returned, holding one of the useful implements for crushing the
hard lumps of sugar, and inquired, "Anything like this?" There
was the genuine article itself. There was no smell of spirits or
mint, but it brought up vividly what it was used for. In those old
days, the gentlemen had brandy toddies, juleps, etc. ; while the ladies
were furnished with wines, cordials, liqueres, and sherry, maras-
chino, perfect love, etc. The oaken implement brought all these
things to memory. The owner prized it because it belonged to her
father — she did not know its use.
Mrs. Rion has among her collection of curios the remnant of the
small cane with which her grand-father, Preston S. Brooks, Esq.,
gave the insolent Charles Sumner, of Massachusetts, a lesson in
politeness. Also the desk at which Representative Brooks sat, while
member of the House of Representatives.
Racing in Old Times — Four Mile Heats.
Columbia formerly had one of the finest race tracks — or two of
them, I might say — the Columbia Jockey Club, a portion of the pres-
ent Epworth grounds, and the other Hampton's (or Boney Young's
as it was generally called), on the South Carolina Railroad, a few
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 133
miles below the town. Such names as Hampton. Singleton, and
other gentlemen of like ilk, managed the racing. Some of the
finest stock in the country would run here — stopping on the way
through to New Orleans. The greatest event of the racing world
at that time occurred here — a four mile heat between four horses —
Cornelia Reed, Grif Edmondson, Ellen Evans, and another. Each
horse had won a heat, making sixteen miles, when the owner of one
of the animals withdrew him, saying he would not run his horse
to death ; another was ruled out on some technicality. One more
heat was run and the mare was the winner — the race not being
decided until long after night had closed in.
R u lining Ten Miles in an Hour.
A man named Jackson, the "American Deer," as he was called,
accomplished a wonderful feat on the old race track here. He ran
ten miles in a fraction less than sixty-one minutes. He was to make
the run in an hour, but was annoyed by outsiders pressing him too
close to the fence, so that he lost that amount of time. The judges
properly awarded him the money. Up to the last mile parties would
attempt to go around the track with the runner, but had to fall to
the rear in every instance.
A Long Imprisonment.
In the spring of 1852, I paid a visit to the famous Sing Sing
Prison, on the Hudson River, in New York State, and was escorted
over the entire building, even including the woman's department
(the women prisoners have since been transferred to another strong-
hold). A Mrs. Robinson, known as the "veiled murderess," had
been convicted of a peculiar murder in Troy, the year before. This
sobriquet was obtained from the fact that during the trial she kept
her veil down, and only raised it when ordered so to do by the Judge
when sentence was about to be pronounced upon her, and immedi-
ately afterwards down it went again. It was said that in the prison
she was allowed to wear a half veil. I merely saw her back. The
woman's identity never was discovered. It was thought that she
hid her features to prevent recognition by acquaintances who might
happen into the Court room. She was plentifully supplied with
money from some unknown source. The sentence was imprison-
ment for life, and it is being rigidly enforced. After serving more
than fifty-three years' imprisonment, she became insane, and was
transferred to a lunatic asylum. That is the longest imprisonment
that ever I heard of. The New York authorities evidently believe in
woman suffrage or suffering.
134 MEMORABILIA AND
COLUMBIA— OLD AND NEW.
Columbia — The Capital City.
The Legislature of 1786 appointed commissioners to arrange about
building a town and removing the seat of government thereto. In
1790, Columbia became the capital — the Legislative body having
previously met in Charleston and Jacksonboro. The vote on select-
ing the capital was very close — Stateburg and Columbia being the
competitors, and the latter only won by one vote. A plot of level
ground on the Lexington side of the river, a short distance from
Congaree Creek, had been looked upon favorably, but a freshet in
the Congaree flooded it completely, and so ended its chances. Col.
Thomas Taylor, the owner of the land purchased, declared that "A
d — d good cotton plantation was going to be spoiled to build a d — d
poor town." In 1805, Columbia was incorporated as a town.
The vote on selection was truly close.
Our City and What It Claims.
The incidents and information contained here began when the
population of Columbia numbered less than 10,000 souls. Now —
1905, notwithstanding Sherman's attempt to "wipe us out" — we have
nearly come up to the 40,000 mark ; real estate has doubled and
trebled in value ; vacant places been and being built upon, a sky-
scraper towers over us ; mills and manufactories of many different
kinds are carried on successfully; emigrants coming in; we com-
municate "with the world and the rest of mankind" (as Gen. Zach-
ary Taylor put it) by means of the telegraph and long distance
'phone. Railroad connection is complete with every section, besides
river communication with the sea. Trolley lines connect suburban
settlements, and in the near future Brookland, Lexington and other
neighboring towns and villages will have these convenient modes
of transportation. As to the climate, that is hard to beat ; plenty of
good water, and thorough sewerage. And the boom continues.
To be Regretted.
Columbia is fast losing one of her principal attractions — the beau-
tiful gardens. This is to be regretted, but the work of improvement
must not be impeded. "The old order changeth, yielding place to
new," Tennyson expresses it very prettily. "Ring out the old, ring
in the new," he further says. We must yield to the inevitable.
Buildings are needed, and vacant space must be built upon. But
we cant' help bewailing the loss of the gardens.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 135
First Newspaper in Columbia.
The Times & Gazette, I have reason to believe, was the first news-
paper issued in Columbia, and, I think, published by John and Daniel
Faust, near the southwest corner of Richardson and Washington
streets. Air. Landrum, who afterwards carried on the pottery a few
miles to the northeast of the town, published The Hive for a time.
The Telescope was published in 1820. The South Carolinian, by
A. H. & W. F. Pemberton, followed in 1832, The Palmetto State
Banner, by I. C. Morgan; Temperance Advocate, by John G. Bow-
man; Southern Chronicle, by Samuel Weir; Illustrated Family
Friend, by Stuart A. Godman ; Carolina Times, by E. H. Britton,
Gyles & LaMotte and C. P. Pelham, and several others ; The Tele-
scope resumed by A. S. Johnston; The Daily Telegraph, by Sill
& De Leon, and then De Leon & Carlisle; The Daily South Caro-
linian, by Cavis & Johnston, which swamped The Telegraph very
soon. The Courant, a literary publication, by the poet, Howard
H. Caldwell. There were others, but their names I can't remember,
as their existence was so brief. A. G. Summer, Esq., and B. R.
Carroll. Esq., were connected with the South Carolinian for a time;
also Dr. R. W. Gibbes and F. G. DeFontaine & Co. Then followed
The Daily Phoenix. Then came The Register and a number of
others, but as their careers were brief, it is unnecessary to mention
them. The State and The Record are the sole survivors.
Oldest Houses in Columbia.
The substantial two-story building, southeast corner of Lady and
Marion streets, now owned by Mrs. John M. Kinard, has the repu-
tation of being the oldest in the city. The two-story house, north-
west corner Bull and Gervais, owned by Mr. Heath, and the one
directly west, now occupied by Dr. Moore, come next. The Van
Benthuysen house, on the southeast corner of Bull and Lady (built
by Mr. A. Herbemont), is another. The Taylor house, near the
Charlotte depot — which looked as if it had been slewed around by
some freak of nature — held "the age," but a storm demolished it
soon after the war. The house on the northwest corner of Gates
and Lumber streets, now owned by Mr. Thos. Gibson, is not far
behind, while the brick one, near the north corner of the block, fol-
lows suit. The Judge Nott homestead, now owned by Mr. M. L.
Kinard, on Elmwood avenue, between Assembly and Gates streets,
comes in about the same time. It formerly stood nearly £00 feet
further back, but Mr. Richard Sondley purchased it and moved it
that much nearer to civilization. Then comes the Hales house,
136 MEMORABILIA AND
northeast corner Pickens and Richland streets, now occupied by
Edwin G. Seibels, Esq. The house on the north side Laurel street,
between Bull and Pickens, occupied by Mrs. J. T. Simms, comes in
a similar category. The two-story brick "DeBruhl" house, north-
east corner Marion and Laurel streets, is also an old one.
Our First Emigrants.
A short time before the fire of 1841, the first German emigrants
of whom I have any knowledge arrived in Columbia — Messrs. M.
Ehrlich, H. Bruns, G. Eilhardt and John Stork (uncle of Mr. Abram
Stork), shoemakers, and Mr. Hertzog, carpenter. They all proved
acceptable citizens, amassed goodly sums of money and left families,
who have been creditable to them. The shoemakers occupied the
premises on Main street, between Plain and Taylor, where Messrs.
Stork and Davis now hold forth. We lived only a few doors off,
and I used to visit the new-comers daily in their work-shop — amused
at their peculiar language and earnest efforts to master English,
while they appeared pleased at my prattle. I remained on good
terms with them up to the last. Mr. Hertzog finally removed from
Columbia and died. After realizing' a competency, Mr. Eilhardt,
with his wife and daughter, returned to Germany ; but he was dis-
satisfied — saying that he knew nobody and nobody knew him in his
native town, and he wanted to come back to Columbia, where he
knew everybody — his family objected, however. Mr. Ehrlich paid
a visit to the Fatherland a short time before his earthly career ended,
and went to see his old friend.
The First Clock — Mr. Benjamin Razi'ls Supplied It.
The first public clock was erected by Mr. Benjamin Rawls, grand-
father of ex-Alderman Benjamin Rawls. It was located on the top
of his building, on the west side of Main street, between Taylor and
Walnut (now Blanding) streets. The clock face was large, the
figures distinct, and it was for several years the only public time-
keeper with which the community was blessed. When the authori-
ties finally erected a tower, on the northwest corner of Main and
Washington streets, Mr. Rawls (who was a professional clock-maker
and repairer) was put in charge and retained the place for years.
At the Shermanizing there was a literal verification of "Hickory,
dickery, dock" — as the clock struck 1, on the memorable 17-18 Feb-
ruary, 1865, the steeple fell, and stopped the echoes summarily. The
bell was cracked by the fall, but Mr. Robert McDougal sawed out
the crack and it did duty suspended from a tree on the jail lot for
several years.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 137
Iutendants and Mayors of Columbia.
John Taylor, Esq., was the first Intendant, elected in May, 1806.
Then follow Abraham Nott, Claiborne Clifton, John Hooker, Daniel
Faust, Simon Taylor, Robert Stark, Wm. E. Hayne, James Gregg,
Daniel Morgan, James T. Goodwyn, David J. McCord, Wm. F. De-
Saussure, E. H. Maxcy, Wm. C. Preston, Wm. C. Clifton, Dr. M.
H. DeLeon, John Bryce, Dr. R. W. Gibbes, B. T. Elmore, R. H.
Goodwin, W. M. Myers, Wm. B. Stanley, Joel Stevenson, Dr. Ed-
ward Sill, Henry Lyons, A. H. Gladden, Wm. Maybin, Ed. J. Arthur,
Jas. D. Tradewell, Dr. Allen J. Green, Dr. John H. Boatwright, Dr.
Thos. J. Goodwyn, James G. Gibbes, Theo. Starke, Col. Gunther,
C. H. Baldwin, John McKenzie, John Alexander, John Agnew, R.
O'Neale, Jr., John T. Rhett, F. W. McMaster, Dr. W. C. Fisher,
W. McB. Sloan, Thos. J. Lipscomb, F. S. Earle and T. H. Gibbes.
Several of these were re-elected.
Columbia Not on the "Square."
Our city, owing to the peculiar ideas of the surveyors, instead of
''boxing the compass," runs north, with an easterly turn. Prof. M.
W. Williams, of the South Carolina College, had a column twenty
feet high erected on the then vacant square, showing the N., E., W.,
S., and then for some purpose pertaining to that object, I suppose,
had a platform with a small column above it, diagonally across from
there, on the old Steward's Hall lot. The latter is still standing,
but the larger column was torn down when the property was sold,
and residences erected. Mr. D. Gambrill is now the owner of the
ground, southwest corner Sumter and College streets. An idea
prevailed that the column was intended to designate the exact centre
of the State, but this is a mistake. I heard Prof. W. explain the
matter, and as he expressed it, he wanted to show that Columbia
was not on the "square." He elucidated the subject thoroughly, but
the above is the substance of it. She is on the "rise," however, be-
cause the old street railroad used for transporting cotton to the
canal boats is now over five feet below the surface, and in digging
to secure a good foundation for a building, the remains of a brick
pavement were found six feet below the present level. She's dead
sure on a boom.
The Oldest Walls.
It is claimed that the walls of the blacksmith shop on the west side
of Sumter street, near Washington, now belonging to the Brennan
family, are the oldest known in the town. They have been recovered
and reoccupied at least four times.
138 MEMORABILIA AND
Our Oldest Citizen.
Mr. Hugh McElrone was, without doubt, the oldest citizen of
Columbia — his age being 103 years — when he departed this life last
year. Several colored persons have been reported at different times
to have passed the century mark, but their dates could not be de-
pended on. Mrs. Mary Hillegas touched one hundred; Mr. Benja-
min Rawls, former Postmaster, and Mr. R. O'Neale, cotton buyer,
reached ninety-four ; Mr. John Veal and Mr. Isaac Coleman touched
ninety-two. Mr. McElrone was a native of Ireland, but had resided
in Columbia for over sixty years, and enjoyed the respect of the
entire community. It could be truthfully said of him that his word
was as good as his bond, and he hated a lie "worse than the devil
does holy water." He had acted as watchman for the banks of the
city for more than a quarter of a century. His remains are interred
in St. Peter's burial ground, of which church he was a revered
member. Notwithstanding the ugly weather, there was an immense
attendance of people to do honor to the venerated citizen.
Graded School Buildings.
The land now occupied by the Washington Street School, with
some other in the suburbs, was given for educational purposes, and
ten free pupils were to be taught. The buildings were constructed
through the sale of the suburban property. The first teacher was,
I believe, a Mr. Smith, then Dr. Elias Marks, Mr. W. Muller, the
Misses Reynolds, Miss Ellen Elmore. It was afterwards turned
over to the Graded School Commissioners — Miss Elmore declining
to become the head of the institution. The four acres now occupied
by the Laurel Street School was given by Col. John Taylor for a
similar object. The teachers, as far as I know, were Messrs. James
Daniels, Bulkley, Richard Ford and Hugh S. Thompson.
Paper Mill.
Columbia once had a paper mill, so an elderly lady informed me,
but it was not long in operation. It was situated on the banks of
the river, opposite to what was known as Lee's Island, a few hun-
dred yards above Congaree Bridge (it is now part of the main land).
The river was unusually high, and the storm was still raging, when
the owner became uneasy and started down, but a superabundance
of lightning put an end to his earthly career. The mill was under-
mined and finally carried away. The site of it was pointed out
years afterwards. I have heard reports of another mill, but know
nothing about it.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 139
Served Triple Purposes.
The substantial-looking building on the northeast corner of Lady
and Marion streets, now owned by Mrs. John H. Kinard, was built
more than a century ago. It was first used as a Court House at
Granby; then the Presbyterians brought it to Columbia, and for
many years it served as a church — and a good one it was, too.
.When about to remove it or tear it down, Mr. John R. Niernsee,
architect of the State House, finding that the timbers were in good
condition, bought it, moved it across the street, transmogrified it
into a dwelling, and it bids fair to outlast many buildings of a later
date. My informant was Mr. Isaac Coleman, a resident of Granby
during its palmy days.
Old Mills Gone Out of Business.
"Young's 7 ' Mill, afterwards called "Geiger's," at the foot of
Boundary street, now Elmwood avenue, used to be an attractive spot
for picnic and walking parties. It was the principal and oldest grist
mill in the vicinity of Columbia. The old house became dilapidated
and was torn down, the dam disappeared, and the Congaree rolls
quietly along, without obstruction.
Dr. Fred. Green had a mill — lumber and grist — near Congaree
Bridge, but it was burnt.
"Fisher's,'' afterwards known as "Roan's," was also patronized
by amusement-seekers — the large room in the second story being
used for dancing. Meal and grist could be ground more cheaply
by steam, and the water-mills fell into disuse. Residents complained
that "Fisher's" Pond was a breeder of disease, and it was ordered
to be drained by the authorities. The mill lost its motive power,
and now is in a tumble-down condition, and is soon to be removed.
"Ring out the old, welcome the new."
Mr. Isaac Coleman, the oldest resident of Columbia that I ever
heard of, and who is referred to several times in this volume, is
authority for the statement that there was a pond on the grounds
now owned by the College for Women, Theological Seminary and
adjacent property ; that a branch or water-way ran from there in
a southwesterly direction, and was of sufficient depth and force to
turn the wheel for a mill located about the corner of Sumter and
Blanding streets ; that he frequently caught small fish from the same
stream.
Mr. Jas. S. Boatzvright and Cotton Gins.
Whitney was the actual inventor of the cotton gin, but Mr. James
S. Boatwright, of this city, made such improvements upon it, that
140 MEMORABILIA AND
cotton men generally give the credit to the latter. At the time he
was in the employ of Col. Tom Taylor, in a small factory on Dent's
Pond, a few miles east of the city. The walls of the building are
still standing. As Mr. B., Sr., got up in years, his son, Samuel,
superintended the business. The Boatwright homestead was on the
site of the present Court House, northwest corner Sumter and Wash-
ington streets. The old gentleman was very democratic in his ideas
and could be seen on the streets constantly in warm weather in his
shirt-sleeves. One evening, during a fire-alarm, he was knocked
down and so badly injured that it resulted in his death. Air. B.
knew who was responsible, but refused to give the name of the party,
saying it was an accident. He had several sons and daughters and
a number of descendants, but they are scattered, and but few of
them reside in Columbia.
Congaree and Saluda River Bridges.
The two main modes of ingress and egress for Columbia were
built by Mr. William Briggs in 1824, father of Mrs. F. W. Green,
and his remains are interred in the Green lot, in Elmwood Ceme-
tery, having been removed from the Methodist Church-yard. Broad
River Bridge was not built until some years later. They were all
destroyed on the approach of Sherman and his army. That officer
is reported to have said that he was saved the trouble by the Confeds.
He would have deemed it unsafe to trust his men on them, for fear
of their being mined, and he was well supplied with pontoons.
Changing Names of Streets.
Blanding street was formerly called Walnut, and a tall white
column, surmounted by a golden-colored horse, ornamented the Main
street corner on the southeast — a sign for "Clark's Hotel." The
town was under great obligations to the Blanding family for ma-
terial aid in the construction of necessary water works, and made
the change as a slight acknowledgment of their liberality. Medium
street was changed to College, as it ran to the South Carolina Col-
lege. Winn was changed to Gregg street, complimentary to Gen.
Maxcey Gregg. The streets running north and south were named
for Revolutionary Generals, while those from east to west were
called to indicate our agricultural productions — wheat, rice, tobacco,
indigo, etc. — cotton was not in vogue then ; miscellaneous names for
the others were then used.
En passant: Mr. Wm. Dulin, wishing to keep the commemorative
style, named his male children Rice, Indigo and Sugar. Rice lived
to a good old age, and dealt in cotton in Cotton Town.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 141
Ten Thousand Trees Destroyed.
Columbia has been despoiled at different dates of more than
10,000 trees. The town authorities must have commenced the plant-
ing of trees at a very early date, because my earliest recollection is
of triple rows in several of the streets — Blanding in particular. In
1840 or '41 a terrible storm leveled over 3,000, so the town marshals
reported. About twenty years ago, there was another decimation —
large numbers being prostrated ; while the August of 1894 witnessed
terrible havoc. At one time, water-oaks prevailed ; then China-
berry, or Pride of India (which supplied the small boy with necessary
ammunition for his pop-gun). Hack-berry, owing to its speedy
growth, became popular; but its slight root-holding brought it into
disfavor — it certainly cannot be excelled as a shade tree, however.
Renew the planting, gentlemen of the City Council.
First Book Store in Columbia.
The first book store in Columbia of which I have any knowledge
was that of Mr. D. B. Plant, on the west side of Richardson street,
near Taylor. I have several toy-books with his name on them, dated
1837. And such toy-books they were — plain, poorly printed, and
illustrations that would disgrace a country newspaper. If some of
the children of the olden time could see the productions of the pres-
ent day, they would doubtless declare that they had been born too
soon. Mr. William Cunningham came soon after, and at his death,
about 1844, Allen & McCarter purchased the stock ; who in turn
transferred it to Bryan & McCarter ; then to R. L. Bryan ; then to
Peter B. Glass, who continued it until the fire of 1865. Middlekauff
& Calhoun opened up, but soon sold out to Townsend & North, who
were Shermanized.
Tudor Hall— -Door of Hope."
On the west side of Gates street, near Lady, was once a noted
house of ill-fame, the habitat of Madam Russell, a very pretty
woman. The objectionable tenants were finally removed, respect-
able families afterwards occupied it, and during the past few years
it has been usefully serving as a reformatory for unfortunates — "The
Door of Hope ;" and much good it has accomplished. We have
wonderful transformations, and this is only one of them. The house
was begun in evil, but will end in good, as the property has been
purchased and kept up by God-fearing men, who are carrying out
the Saviour's directions to the multitude, "Let him who is without
sin," etc.
142 MEMORABILIA AND
PECULIAR HAPPENINGS.
Meeting a Fellow-Countryman.
Miss Emma Wright (afterwards Airs. J. Kenneth), of this city,
was a great friend of mine. In 1854, she accompanied my mother
and myself on a trip to the North. At Greenwood Cemetery, we
ordered a carriage for a drive through those lovely grounds. After
first getting directions from the superintendent as to the location
of a lot we wanted to find — it was one of three, Pears, Nesbitt and
Williams — on the same hillside, with no fencing between, located
near the famous Schermerhorn vault. The driver knew the locality,
and off we started. Miss Emma recognized the lingo of our Jehu
and pleasantly asked him from what part of the "Green Isle" he
hailed. "The city of Cork, ma'am," said he. "Why, that is my
city," Miss Emma responded; "and where did you live?" was the
next inquiry. "King street," was the reply of the delighted Irish-
man, giving the number. "I lived at the other end," said Miss
Emma, pleased at the circumstance. And the balance of the drive
was enlivened by the information imparted by Pat — who had visited
Ireland since Miss E. emigrated. After going the route mapped
out, the driver proposed to carry us through the new part, which was
promptly agreed to, as we knew our friend was highly gratified with
the conversation, and the gentlemanly manners of the driver. Re-
turning to the entrance, while the two ladies were partaking of a
light refreshment, I invited our manipulator of the whip to take a
stimulant, which he with dignity proceeded to do. When I went
to pay him for the use of the carriage, he asked me to let the half
hour go as his treat — it was such a great satisfaction to talk with a
fellow-countryman. I told him that I knew he had a living to work
for, and so had I ; that I brought with me a certain amount of money,
and when that was expended, I should leave for home and go to
work. But he politely persisted, and I merely paid him for the two
hours agreed upon. Just then a horse-car passed on its way to
Brooklyn. "Oh, Jerusalem ! half an hour to wait for the next car,"
was my dissatisfied exclamation. "No, get the ladies to come at
once and I'll overhaul the car in short order," was the prompt reply.
The others hurriedly got in, and we started and overtook the car.
I offered the polite and liberal driver half a dollar, but he shook his
head, whipped up his horses, and left us.
In the summer of 1865, I paid another visit to Greenwood, Sun-
day afternoon ; stepped into the first carriage I saw, and said I
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 143
wanted a short drive through the grounds. As we moved off, the
driver asked if I owned a lot in the cemetery, and if not, did I have
a permit, otherwise I would not be admitted. "Go ahead," I replied ;
"will see what can be done." He looked at me very hard, and when
we were stopped at the entrance, I told the clerk the circumstances —
that my wife's mother was buried there; that I would leave for the
South that night, and hoped he would violate his rule slightly, as I
knew nothing about the permits. His reply was that I should be
admitted. I commenced my usual request about directions to the
Schermerhorn vault, etc., when my worthy Jehu spoke up pleasantly :
"That's all right, Mr. Williams ; I know the gentleman, and where
he wants to go;" adding, "I thought I recognized your Honor when
you came up. I am delighted to see you. I drove you and two
pleasant ladies ten years ago. How is your good mother?" "Very
well, thank you," I replied. "And Miss Emma?" was his next
query. "Poor Miss Emma has gone to her long home. She mar-
ried, and while in a delicate situation exerted herself in coming to
see me (I had what was thought to be a severe attack of pneumo-
nia), and died a few days afterwards," I informed him. "I'm very
sorry; she was a perfect lady. She treated me very kindly, not
knowing that I was anything more than a poor driver."
Two years ago, at the entrance to Greenwood, I had just ordered
a vehicle, when an elderly man addressed me : "Your Honor is fond
of driving." "Yes," I answered; "much prefer it to walking." "I
had the pleasure of driving you through the grounds years ago,"
he replied. It was our Irish acquaintance. He had given up work,
and was living quietly in the neighborhood. I passed him a quarter,
with the suggestion that he should pledge my health, but he must
excuse me. If I get in that section again, I will certainly try and
find the ex-driver; but it is likely that he has departed for the
other world. I only refer to these circumstances to show how often
we run up on persons by accident ; when at other times all attempts
fail in trying to find those we are in search of.
Cast Thy Bread, &c.
In 1852, I paid my first visit to the Northern States. Left home
with sufficient of the wherewithal to take me through, but by a lucky
hit in the lottery of Pyfer & Co., Laight street, Baltimore, increased
the amount by nearly $100. In peregrinating around New York, I
happened to drop into a somewhat notorious house in Wooster street,
termed now-a-days "tenderloin." Quite a modest-looking woman,
calling; herself "Ida Montressor," and seated in a corner, attracted
144 MEMORABILIA AND
my attention, and I got into conversation with her. In the course
of our chat, I remarked that she seemed out of place ; her reply was,
that as soon as she could raise $1,000 (and she now had the better
part of it deposited in bank), she intended to give up her present
mode of life forever ; that she had an opportunity to buy a millinery,
now doing a fair business, and as the town was rapidly growing,
trade would likely increase. I left in a few minutes and went to my
quarters, but I could not rest quietly. Dreams of the young woman,
and the waking thoughts of her promised reformation, haunted me.
The next morning I went to the Wooster house, had an interview
with the landlady, and asked her candidly to tell me (a foolish piece
of business, many persons would say,) if she believed that her
boarder, Ida, meant what she said. Her reply was that she felt
perfectly satisfied that she spoke the truth, and then mentioned some
circumstances connected with her early life, but without giving the
least hint as to who she really was or where she came from. Later
in the day I saw the would-be milliner, and she assured me that she
was firm in her determination. Much to her surprise, I handed her
the necessary amount, and two days afterward had the pleasure of
seeing her get aboard the "Hudson River steamer "Henry Clay"
(destroyed the same season by fire). I received several letters from
Miss Ida during the next two or three years, in all of which she
expressed herself thankful for the material aid furnished, and said
her business had prospered wonderfully. About 1855, I spent a few
hours in the town where my milliner protege resided, but did not
call upon her — contenting myself with making inquiries in a round-
about way with reference to her. I found that she stood well in
the community, and was about to be married to a resident of the
town of good family. Four months afterwards I received a paper
containing the marriage notice. I afterwards learned that she had
several children, and then the war came on. In the summer of 1865,
business called me to New York, and I paid a short visit to the milli-
ner. She had five children, was blessed with a kind husband,
in business, enjoyed good health, and had made some profitable in-
vestments. I bade her good-bye, and never saw her again. In
1889, I received official notice that Mrs. Blank had departed this
life, and by her will I was to receive $6,000. The family were
anxious to see me, so the official stated, and to know why I was
entitled to the sum mentioned. I paid no attention to the notifica-
tion, as I could not frame any sort of a plausible statement — I would
not tell the truth about the matter for the sake of the survivors. I
suppose they think I am dead. So let it go at that. The bread
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 145
cast upon the waters returned after many years, but in such a con-
dition that it could not be partaken of. Perhaps a soul was saved.
Who can tell ?
Delays Are Dangerous.
Mrs. Margaret Grey, the wife of the owner and captain of the
ship "Eliza," which plied between Liverpool and Philadelphia, was
a grand-aunt and god-mother of my mother. In 1824, a letter was
received from her by my grand-mother (then living in Nassau, N.
P., B. W. I.), stating they were getting old and tired of the sea,
that they liked Philadelphia very much, and they thought of settling
there. They had no children, and Mrs. Grey accompanied her hus-
band on his voyages. That is the last letter that I ever heard any-
thing about — there was no regular communication with the United
States in those days. The male relatives of the family died, the
slaves were emancipated, and the females and young children came
to the United States — the majority of them settled in Key West,
Florida, and there died, while two came to South Carolina. Al-
though I had seen Mrs. Grey's letter several times, I never attached
any importance to it. Ten or twelve years ago, I was chatting with
a Philadelphia!!, and happened to bring up the matter in a casual
way, when he replied that a friend of his was recorder of wills in
the Quaker City, and that if I gave him the names of the captain
and his wife, he would get his friend to look up the matter, and
something might come of it. I carelessly remarked that it was too
late now, as I supposed the parties had died long ago. The inquiry
was made, and it was found that Mrs. Grey, relict of Capt. James
Grey, had died in 1872, leaving her possessions to her "Grand-niece
and god-child, Margaret Ann Scott," with the usual additions. I
have spent several days in Philadelphia at different times, beginning
with the spring of 1852. And so the matter ended, and the prop-
erty, much or little, slipped through my fingers. My mother had
died and no papers could be found. Take my advice and don't
delay. If anything is worth doing, it is worth doing promptly.
A Fortune in Hand — Let it Slip.
Maj. Thos. Davis had 700 bales of cotton on his plantation, seve-
ral miles below Columbia, which escaped the eagle eyes of Sher-
man's exterminators. The fleecy necessary article was saved, but it
brought trouble. The war ended, a speculator heard of the cotton,
and offered the Major 65c. a pound for it, as it stood — not to be
delivered in Columbia. The offer was refused, cotton went down
in price and the bulk of the 700 bales was sold for about 12y 2 c.
10— M
146 MEMORABILIA AND
Money was borrowed at heavy interest to construct the building,
since converted into the Columbia Hotel ; the old gentleman became
partially demented and died, the mortgages were foreclosed, and the
heirs got literally nothing. I met the Major in New York, and in
conversation, he brought up the subject of his cotton. I asked how
he happened to allow such an offer (65c.) to slip through his hands.
His reply was, in substance, "There had been no cotton grown in
three or four years, and I felt sure the price would reach $1." "But,"
said I, "parties could not afford to work it up at that price — they
would use linen goods." "They were forced to use it, cost what it
might." "The government," was my reply; "not private individ-
uals." "Well, that is true," he sadly responded. Here a small for-
tune of $100,000 was allowed to slip away. The temptation was
very great.
Robbery of Scott & Williams' Bank.
On Saturday night, April 16, 1870, the banking house of Scott,
Williams & Co. (Geo. W. Williams, Esq., of Charleston, being the
capitalist), east side of Main street, midway between Plain and
Washington, was robbed — completely cleaned out of cash — in a very
matter of fact style. There is not a shadow of doubt that parties in
Columbia put up the job — a well known Radical office-holder being
strongly suspected. The thieves secured their valuables and floated
down the river, it is believed. What the money stolen really
amounted to, nobody can tell. A great many creditors were not paid
their just dues — the excuse being, "I lost $1,500 in gold by Scott's
bank robbery," or "I lost all I had in Scott's bank," when it is doubt-
ful whether they could have produced that many cents. "Four-
fingered Jack," a noted burglar of that day, there is reason to be-
lieve, manipulated the business. It is thought that the originators
of the affair were "euchred" by the actual thieves. Hubbard, the
State Detective, who was considered a veritable sleuth-hound, was
accidentally absent from the city at the time.
Crazy Darkeys Unknown.
I never heard of but one crazy darkey in the days of slavery, and
that was a woman belonging to Longenotti. Some thought it was
religious excitement, but her owner took a different view of the
case. He buried her up to her neck in his garden, where she re-
mained two days, and came out cured. I remember seeing her many
years afterwards. Reconstruction brought innumerable ills to
Sambo — privilege to starve, have consumption, yellow fever and
dementia.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 147
ODDS AND ENDS.
A Play Upon Names — Taylor, Physioc.
For several months Dr. B. W. Taylor and Tailor Physioc occu-
pied adjacent rooms in the Exchange Bank building - , northeast cor-
ner Alain and Plain streets, now owned by Sylvan Brothers. The
Taylor physicked, while the Physioc (or Physic, as he was more
generally called) tailored.
Ada, Sole Daughter, etc.
Two very pretty young women, lived next door neighbors, on
south side Plain, near Bull street, until they reached early woman-
hood — Ada Heise and Hart Meehan. They were an illustration of
the second line of the third Canto of Byron's Childe Harold, "Ada,
sole daughter of my house and heart" — capitalize the Heart, how-
ever. The combination was broken two years ago, as Ada departed
heavenward.
Dislocated.
An Italian, named Longenotti, had the misfortune to dislocate his
arm, and carried it in a sling. Air. Aleck Brodie, meeting the suf-
ferer, said: '"Hello, Longi, what's the matter with your arm?"
"Deesloocatit," was the reply, holding up the affected member. "I
don't want to look at it," said Air. B. "Deesloocatit," once more
said Longi. This was continued several times, when Air. B. gave
him an invitation to visit other parts, and pursued his way up town,
leaving the foreigner vainly endeavoring to express his troubles so
he could be understood. A brother soon afterwards arrived and
claimed Airs. L. as his wife. The affair was settled satisfactorily,
for the three lived in the same house several years, and finally
secured permanent abode in St. Peter's Church-yard.
Education vs. Card Tricks.
During Radical reign, when money was plentiful, card sharps got
the advantage of many educated darkies. A case in point was a
series of games between \Y. J. Whipper, a Northerner, claiming
Beaufort as his home, and Charley Alinort, a bright mulatto from
this section, who could scarcely read. The game was continued
several hours, and Alinort, to use his own expression, "Won a hatful
of money from Whipper." Money, bonds and jewelry were cap-
tured bv the successful card-player. I don't think Whipper ever
recovered from his losses, as he has looked "seedv" ever since.
148 MEMORABILIA AND
Hoiv to Get Around Borrowers.
A good-natured resident of Richland carried out an original idea
as to borrowers of money. He called one of his pockets "The
World," and made it a point never to put money in that receptacle.
When an uncertain individual requested a loan, he would reply,
"Haven't a cent in the world, I assure you." It worked capitally
for a time, and he chuckled at the success of his dodge ; but one day,
in a burst of confidence, he told the story and it got out. When he
gave the stereotyped answer to a would-be borrower soon after, the
applicant coolly replied, "Try the other pocket, Bob." He got the
money.
"hover's Lane," or Twelve-Mile Drive.
There is but little left of the famous double row of trees planted
by Gen. Wade Hampton, Sr., extending nearly from the Bluff Road
to the Mill Creek. Storms and the axe have removed the greater
part of these monster beauties. The road was kept in perfect con-
dition — a neat and substantial brick bridge carried you over the
track of the South Carolina Railroad. The engaged young woman
who did not enjoy one or more trips over this famous twelve-mile
ride — down the Mill Creek Road to the Hampton private road,
through his grounds, from "Millwood" to "Woodlands," then over
the Bluff Road to Columbia again — would think that she had been
left "out in the cold." The road now is sand and ruts; the brick
bridge is gone; the Wilmington Railroad also cuts through the
grounds, and the parties who make an attempt to go around, may
thank Providence if they escape short of a broken vehicle or a dis-
located limb.
Great Many Ways to Ham Money.
Money can be accumulated in a variety of ways — the trouble is to
keep it. J. Duncan Allen, Esq., formerly Senator from Aiken, once
told me how he got a financial start in the world. He obtained em-
ployment on a pole-boat plying between Charleston and the up-
country. Matches were something new and expensive. He would
put up fat lightwood in packages, take it to Charleston and dispose
of it for kindling purposes ; and invest the proceeds in these ready-
lighters, which he would bring up and get rid of to the benighted
ones. He afterwards married a Miss Myers, sister of Messrs.
Robert and William, by whom he obtained quite a fortune — princi-
pally in negroes. He once gave a dinner here for election purposes
which was said to have cost $5,000. He died about twenty years
ago, in very straitened circumstances.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 149
Accidental Destruction of Historic Tree.
It is generally understood that the large oak tree which formerly
stood in Green street, west side, near Main, and recently accidentally
killed, was somewhat historic in its character. The Commissioners
(Taylor, Earle and others) who selected and laid out the town of
Columbia, held their daily meetings and partook of the necessary
lunches (and, perhaps, punches) under its broad branches.
Hoti' Betty Boyer Would Get a Drink.
Mrs. Betty Boyer, of the Sand-hills, loved a nip of whiskey, and
often being short of funds, would have to resort to skill to obtain the
fluid. One of her devices was to take a so-called quart bottle and
ask for a quart of whiskey ; the bottle wouldn't hold it, of course,
and the old woman would pleasantly say, "Let me have that, I'll
drink it. Wrap up the bottle and put it aside, and I'll come in for it
when I go home." And that would be the last of it.
Disappearance of Spanish Coin.
Can anybody tell what has become of the old Spanish coins which
were so common "before the war" — 6}4> 12^, 18 and 25 cents?
you seldom saw any of greater value. They were called in this
section fourpence, sevenpence, eighteen cents and quarters ; in
Louisiana, the small coins were termed fips and levies ; while in the
Northern States sixpence, shilling, eighteenpence and two shillings.
A United States five or ten-cent piece was seldom seen in those days ;
and as for the dollars, they were bought by the jewelers at a pre-
mium ; but our old Spanish acquaintances, like Spain's land acqui-
sitions, have disappeared. The quarters were often used for
advertising purposes at the North, being often stamped : "Good for
admission to Christy's Minstrels;" "Good for a dinner at Williams,"
etc.
And the Beggar Died.
The Rev. Mr. Wheeler, who was once pastor of the Washington
Street Methodist Church, if he did not capture many souls, knew
how to raise money for church purposes. Mr. Henry Davis was
connected with another church, but generally responded to Mr.
Wheeler's appeals. He had been waited upon several times with
a "tale of woe," and finally said, "Mr. Wheeler, I will help you again,
although it is only a short time since you appealed to me, if you will
agree to let me dictate the inscription for your tomb-stone." "All
right," responded Mr. W. "And the beggar died," said Mr. D.
Mr. W. smiled, but never called for another contribution.
150 MEMORABILIA AND
Arsenal Academy — Powder-Monkeys.
About 1840, it was decided to convert the Arsenals in Columbia
and Charleston into Military Academies, and require the students
to look after the arms as a part of their duties. The town boys
and the military students didn't agree — the latter being denominated
"pow T der-monkeys" by the former, from the fact that in firing salutes,
the vouthful soldiers would run rapidly to and fro between cannon
and caisson for ammunition. A good many difficulties occurred,
but the trouble soon petered out.
Why Didn't I Say Two Hundred?
Our genial friend, Mrs. M. W. Stratton, used to tell a joke on
herself, illustrating the point that we are never satisfied. Skinner
Smith, Esq., a member of the Legislature, was boarding with her
during the session. One day she was sitting in the dining room,
looking and feeling very disconsolate for the want of some ready
money. Mr. S. came in and noticing her quiet manner, inquired
the reason, as she was generally lively and had something pleasant
to say to every one. "If I had $100," replied Airs. Stratton, "I would
be perfectly happy." The Representative from Laurens opened his
pocket-book and handed her the money, with the remark, "That as
fine a woman as she was shouldn't be unhappy for such an amount."
Mrs. S. thanked him earnestly ; but when he went out, couldn't help
saying, in an under-tone, "Why didn't I say $"200?"
Bating Steaks from a Live Turtle.
Bob Franklin was a good-hearted saloon-keeper, who occupied
the "Cottage House" for several years. He secured an immense
turtle and invited a number of friends to come one Sunday and par-
take of steak and eggs from the big carcase. Among a number of
others, Dad Wadlow, the well known sport, was on hand. After
disposing of a goodly amount of the delicacies. Bob invited the
feeders to come out and see the frame, and the crowd proceeded to
the yard, where, under a tree, apparently comfortably reclining on a
table, was Mrs. Turtle, her heart beating regularly as if nothing had
happened. "The darned thing's alive, and we've been eating it!"
yelled Dad, and hurriedly left for a convenient spot, and when dis-
covered he was apparently doing his level best to cast up his toe-
nails. The moral of which is, keep away from the kitchen and its
surroundings. Bob was delighted at the result of his joke, and he
had "one on Dad," as he expressed it. The turtle did not give up
the ghost for several hours.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 151
Lost the Spoons.
The morning after the Shermanizing, Mr. John Dorsey was saun-
tering along, when a soldier handed him a package of spoons, say-
ing he could make use of them, perhaps. "If they were silver, I'd
take care of them." Dorsey looked at them, and, without thinking,
said: "They are engraved, and must be silver." "Is that so?" said
the soldier, and repossessed himself of the useful articles. Dorsey
said he wanted to kick himself.
She Knew It was There.
An elderly colored woman, Harriet Smith, was very fond of wear-
ing tucked petticoats. On one occasion my mother was talking with
the old creature, while she was arranging her newly-washed gar-
ments on the clothes-line ; one of the tucks got raised, and she noticed
lace underneath. Making an examination, she found that all the
tucks in the garment were so arranged. "Why, Aunt Harriet," ex-
claimed my mother ; "what's the use of that — nobody can see the
lace." "I knows it's there," was the response; "and that's enough."
Saved His Horse.
John A. Crawford, Esq., was the owner of a bob-tailed horse that
he appreciated very highly. I don't pretend to say that he raced
the animal, but it's very sure that if any one attempted to pass him
on the road, his animal stepped out in a way that showed he could
get over ground in a hurry. Finding that Sherman's men were
appropriating stock, he muffled the horse's feet and led him up into
the second story of his dwelling (southeast corner of Blanding and
Bull streets), and foiled the robbers. The house still stands, but
owner and animal have passed away.
"I'll Have to Take it, Sam."
In the old davs, salts, senna, magnesia, boneset, composition tea,
castor oil, No. 6, blue mass, snake-root, and bleeding formed the
pharmacopoeia of most folks. Mrs. Bay, a well known resident,
who occupied the premises southwest corner of Senate and Bull
streets, had a petted waiting man named Sam. who had been sick
for several days. His mistress could not diagnose the case, but she
mixed a dose of salts and snake-root — a horrible mess — for Sam ;
but he objected to taking it, saying he needed something else, which
he suggested. Finally, not willing to waste the medicine, she said,
"Well, Sam, if you think it wont help you, don't take it ; but it's a
shame to throw it awav, so I'll take it." And she did.
152 MEMORABILIA AND
Give Them a Homestead.
A bill providing exemption of the homestead from debt was being
discussed, when a member with an inquiring mind asked how that
would help a poor man, who didn't have a homestead? Mr. Smith
jumped up and in a loud tone of voice replied, "I say, make a law
to give every poor man one." The idea gratified his listeners.
Russell's Botanical Garden.
This famous resort of fifty years ago was on the northeast corner
of Main and Senate streets — now part of the State Capitol grounds.
It contained an immense collection and variety of flowers and herbs,
a mystic maze, etc. Mr. Robert Russell, the originator and owner
of the garden, did not long survive the sale of the property — to use
a hackneyed expression, it broke his heart. His tomb-stone is in
one of the paths in Trinity Church-yard.
Haunted Ground — -Ehmvood Cemetery.
"Tickleberry" was the name of the plot of ground now used as
Elmwood Cemetery. It was said to be "haunted" by the colored
people, but I never heard any reason assigned for the cognomen. It
was converted into a cemetery in 1852, and the first occupant was a
child of one of the professors in the South Carolina College. It has
certainly filled rapidly, although a great many bodies have been
transferred from other depositories.
The Irishman and the German.
The sons and daughters of Erin give "taffy" naturally, while the
natives of King William's dominions come down heavy, like their
bread. As a sample : A short time ago, I congratulated one of the
latter, who had just returned from a trip across the water, on his
improved appearance, and asked if he thought some of the fine beer,
cheese and pretzels, which he had been describing, would increase
my avoirdupois. "Too old," was his curt reply. The next day, on
coming from dinner, I addressed an Irish friend, saying I had just
been to perform one of the pleasant duties of the day, but that I did
not fatten. "Wait till you get old," was his pleasant reply. In nine
times out of ten, invite an Irishman to join you in a drink, and when
asked what he will have, the inquiry is, "What are you going to
take?" and he duplicates it. If he extends an invitation to you, the
result is the same. Our German crony will take beer— "you drink
what vou like."
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 153
Singular Coincidence.
Dr. W. E. Evans, Rector of Trinity Church, in this city, many
years ago, it is said, studied for the stage, but finding that his family
were bitterly opposed to the idea, he gave it up, prepared for the
ministry, and his declamation and actions in the pulpit showed the
ability of the man and his adaptability to the profession he proposed
to follow originally. The singular circumstance connected with the
matter is this : Dr. Evans was called to and accepted the rectorship
of the Monumental Church, in Richmond, Ya. — erected to com-
memorate the burning of the theatre in that city, on the night of
December 24, 1811.
Pastor Fifty-two Years.
The Rev. Peter J. Shand served Trinity Church faithfully for
fifty-two years. In several cases it is known that he christened, mar-
ried and buried individuals. His rectorate began in the wooden
edifice on the southeastern corner of Gervais and Sumter streets.
By-the-way, the question is often asked as to several graves in the
corner of the lot — the bodies being laid "across the world." It was
owing to the narrow space left in the construction of the building
for the entrance. Among the distinguished occupants of the grave-
yard are Gen. Peter Horry, Governors Manning and Generals and
Colonel Wade Hampton.
Didn't Want Watered Liquor.
The firm of Pollock, Solomon & Co., southwest corner Richard-
son and Plain streets — groceries, hardware, dry goods, wet goods,
etc. — wholesale and retail, was well known and respected until the
winding up of the business by the death of the head of the concern,
in the forties. New Orleans was the great market then for sugar,
molasses, rum, whiskey, etc. Mr. Lewis Levy was the buyer and
trading man of the firm, and I have often heard him tell of his ex-
tensive trips through the West on horse-back — going as far as Cin-
cinnati, Ohio. They were in the habit of buying liquor above
proof, and reducing it afterwards, giving a good shake-up, and it
was then all right. A lot of the fluid had been received, and the
spring water added, but the shake-up had not been attended to. A
customer called for a sample, before giving his order, and was fur-
nished with water drawn directly from a barrel. He was disgusted ;
explanations were useless ; he didn't want watered liquor, and with-
drew his patronage.
154 MEMORABILIA AND
SACK AND DESTRUCTION OF COLUMBIA.
Written by JVm. Gilmore Simiiis, Esq., for the Phoenix.
It lias pleased God, in that Providence which is so inscrutable to
man, to visit our beautiful city with the most cruel fate which can ever
befall States or cities. He has permitted an invading army to pene-
trate our country almost without impediment ; to rob and ravage our
dwellings, and to commit three-fifths of our city to the flames.
Eighty-four squares, out of one hundred and twenty-four ( ?) which
the city contains, have been destroyed, with scarcely the exception of
a single house. The ancient capitol building of the State — that
venerable structure, which, for seventy years, has echoed with the
eloquence and wisdom of the most famous statesmen — is laid in
ashes ; six temples of the Most High God have shared the same fate ;
eleven banking establishments ; the schools of learning, the shops of
art and trade, of invention and manufacture ; shrines equally of reli-
gion, benevolence and industry ; are all buried together, in one
congregated ruin. Humiliation spreads her ashes over our homes
and garments, and the universal wreck exhibits only one common
aspect of despair. It is for us, as succinctly but as fully as possible,
and in tbe simplest language, to endeavor to make the melancholy
record of our wretchedness as complete as possible.
When, by a crime, no less than blunder. General Johnston was re-
moved from the command of the Confederate armies in Georgia,
;yhich be had conducted with such signal ability, there were not a
few of our citizens who felt the impending danger, and trembled at
the disastrous consequences which they partly foresaw. The re-
moval of a General so fully in the confidence of his troops, who had
so long baffled the conquests, if he could not arrest the march, of the
opposing army, was of itself a proceeding to startle the thoughtful
mind. General Sherman declared his satisfaction at the event, and
on repeated occasions since has expressed himself to the same effect.
He was emboldened by the change, and almost instantly after, his
successes became rapid and of the most decided character.
Genera 1 Johnston was by nature, no less than training and educa-
tion, the very best of the Confederate generals to be opposed to
General Sherman. To the nervo-sanguine temperament, eager and
impetuous, of the latter, he opposed a moral and physical nature —
calm, sedate, circumspect ; cool, vigilant and wary — always patient
and watchful of his moment — never rash or precipitate, but ever
firm and decisive — his resources all regulated by a self-possessed
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 155
will, and a mind in full possession of that military coup d' oeil
which, grasping the remotest relations of the field, is, probably, the
very first essential to a general having the control of a large and
various army.
The error which took Hood into the colder regions of Tennessee,
at the beginning of winter, was one which the Yankee general was
slow to imitate, especially as, in so moving, Hood necessarily left all
the doors wide open which conducted to the seaboard. It required
no great effort of genius to prompt the former to take the pathways
which were thus laid open to him. Even had he not already con-
ceived the propriety of forcing his way to the Atlantic coast, and
to a junction with his shipping, the policy of then doing so would
have been forced upon him by the proceeding of his rival, and by
the patent fact that there were no impediments to such a progress.
We had neither army nor general ready to impede his march. It
suggested itself. The facility of such a progress was clear enough,
and, with that quickness of decision which distinguishes the tempera-
ment of Sherman, he at once rushed into the open pathway.
The hasty levies of regular troops, collected by Hardee, and the
clans of scattered militia, gathered with great difficulty and un-
trained to service, were rather calculated to provoke his enterprise
than to impede his march, and, laying waste as he went, after a
series of small and unimportant skirmishes, he made his way to the
coast, made himself master of Savannah, and, from the banks of that
river, beheld, opened before him. all the avenues into and through
South Carolina. It is understood that Hardee had in hand, to
oppose this progress, something less than ten thousand men, while
the force of Sherman was, in round numbers, something like fifty
thousand, of which thirty-three thousand consisted of infantry — the
rest of artillery and cavalry.
The destruction of Atlanta, the pillaging and burning of other
towns of Georgia, and the subsequent devastation along the march
of the Federal army through Georgia, gave sufficient earnest of the
treatment to be anticipated by South Carolina, should the same com-
mander be permitted to make a like progress in our State. The
Northern press furnished him the cri de guerre to be sounded when
he should cross our borders. "Vae victis!" — woe to the conquered!
— in the case of a people who had first raised the banner of secession.
"The howl of delight," f such was the language of the Northern
press,) sent up by Sherman's legions, when they looked across the
Savannah to the shores of Carolina, was the sure forerunner of the
terrible fate which threatened our people should the soldiers be once
156 MEMORABILIA AND
let loose upon our lands. Our people felt all the danger. They
felt it required the first abilities, the most strenuous exertions, the
most prompt and efficient reinforcements, to prevent the threatening
catastrophe.
Hardee, though of acknowledged ability, and considered able as
the leader of a corps, was not the man to grasp the business of a
large army. All eyes looked to General Johnston as the one man,
next to Lee, to whom the duty should be confided and the trust. It
was confidently hoped and believed that he would be restored to the
command, and that adequate reinforcements would be furnished.
At all events, no one doubted that, with adequate supplies of men
and material, Johnston would most effectually arrest the farther pro-
gress of Sherman's army.
Applications of the most urgent entreaty were addressed by our
delegates and leading men in the Confederate Congress to President
Davis, urging these objects. But he declined to restore the com-
mander whom he had so greatly wronged, and, in respect to rein-
forcements, these were too tardily furnished, and in too small num-
ber, to avail much in offering requisite resistance. The reinforce-
ments did not make their appearance in due season for a concentra-
tion of the strength at any one point, and opposition to Sherman,
everywhere, consisted of little more than a series of small skirmishes,
without result on either side. No pass was held with any tenacity ;
no battle fought ; Sherman was allowed to travel one hundred and
fifty miles of our State, through a region of swamp and thicket, in
no portion of which could a field be found adequate to the display of
ten thousand men, and where, under good partisan leaders, the Fede-
rals might, have been cut off in separate bodies, their supplies
stopped, their march constantly embarrassed by hard fighting, and
where, a bloody toll exacted at every defile, they must have found a
Thermopylae at every five miles of their march. The Confederates
had no partisan fighting, as in days of old. They had a system,
which insisted upon artillery as paramount — insisted upon arbitrary
lines for defence, chosen without any regard to the topography of
the country. "We will make a stand," said the Confederate chiefs,
"at this river crossing or that ;" then fall back to the next river, and
so on to the last. Although in a thousand places of dense swamp,
narrow defile, and almost impenetrable thicket, between these rivers,
it would have been easy to find spots where three hundred men,
under competent commanders, who knew the country, might most
effectually have baffled three thousand.
The march of the Federals into our State was characterized by
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 157
such scenes of license, plunder and general conflagration, as very
soon showed that the threats of the Northern press, and of their
soldiery, were not to be regarded as mere brutum fulmen. Day by
day brought to the people of Columbia tidings of atrocities com-
mitted, and more extended progress. Daily did long trains of fugi-
tives line the roads, with wives and children, and horses and stock
and cattle, seeking refuge from the pursuers. Long lines of wagons
covered the highways. Half-naked people cowered from the winter
under bush tents in the thickets, under the eaves of houses, under the
railroad sheds, and in old cars left them along the route. All these
repeated the same story of suffering, violence, poverty and naked-
ness. Habitation after habitation, village after village — one send-
ing up its signal flames to the other, presaging for it the same fate —
lighted the winter and midnight sky with crimson horrors.
No language can describe nor can any catalogue furnish an ade-
quate detail of the wide-spread destruction of homes and property.
Granaries were emptied, and where the grain was not carried off, it
was strewn to waste under the feet of the cavalry or consigned to
the fire which consumed the dwelling. The negroes were robbed
equally with the whites of food and clothing. The roads were cov-
ered with butchered cattle, hogs, mules and the costliest furniture.
Valuable cabinets, rich pianos, were not only hewn to pieces, but
bottles of ink, turpentine, oil, whatever could efface or destroy, was
employed to defile and ruin. Horses were ridden into the houses.
People were forced from their beds, to permit the search after hid-
den treasures.
The beautiful homesteads of the parish country, with their won-
derful tropical gardens, were ruined ; ancient dwellings of black
cypress, one hundred years old, which had been reared by the fathers
of the republic — men whose names were famous in Revolutionary
history — were given to the torch as recklessly as were the rude
hovels ; choice pictures and works of art, from Europe, select and
numerous libraries, objects of peace wholly, were all destroyed.
The inhabitants, black no less than white, were left to starve, com-
pelled to feed only upon the garbage to be found in the abandoned
camps of the soldiers. The corn scraped up from the spots where
the horses fed, has been the only means of life left to thousands but
lately in affluence. And thus plundering, and burning, the troops
made their way through a portion of Beaufort into Barnwell Dis-
trict, where they pursued the same game. The villages of Buford's
Bridge, of Barnwell, Blackville, Graham's, Bamberg, Midway, were
more or less destroyed ; the inhabitants everywhere left homeless and
158 MEMORABILIA AND
without food. The horses and mules, all cattle and hogs, whenever
fit for service or for food, were carried off, and the rest shot. Every
implement of the workman or the farmer, tools, plows, hoes, gins,
looms, wagons, vehicles, was made to feed the flames.
From Barnwell to Orangeburg and Lexington was the next pro-
gress, marked everywhere by the same sweeping destruction. Both
of these court towns were partially burned.
These tidings duly reached the people of Columbia, and might
have prepared them for the treatment they were destined to receive.
Daily accessions of fugitives, bringing with them their valuables
and provisions, made ample report of the progress of the Federal
army. Hundreds of families had seasonably left long before, in
anticipation of the danger. Columbia was naturally held to be one
of the most secure places of refuge. It was never doubted that this
capital city, which contained so many of the manufactures of the
Confederate Government, the Treasury, &c, would be defended with
all the concentrated vigor of which the Confederacy was capable,
especially, too, as upon the several railroads connected with the city,
the army of Lee and the safety of Richmond were absolutely de-
pendent. Young women of family were sent in large numbers to a
city, where numbers seemed to promise a degree of security not to
be hoped for in any obscure rural abode. The city was accordingly
doubled in population, and here also was to be found an accumula-
tion of wealth, in plate, jewels, pictures, books, manufactures of art
and virtu, not to be estimated — not, perhaps, to be paralleled in any
other town of the Confederacy. In many instances, the accumula-
tions were those of a hundred years — of successive generations — in
the hands of the oldest families of the South. A large proportion
of the wealth of Charleston had been stored in the capital city, and
the owners of these treasures, in many instances, were unable to
effect any farther remove. If apprehensive of the danger, they
could only fold their hands, and, hoping against hope, pray for
escape from a peril to which they could oppose no farther vigilance
or effort.
Still, the lurking belief with most persons, who apprehended the
approach of the Federal army, encouraged the faith that, as the city
was wholly defenceless, in the event of a summons, it would be sur-
rendered upon the usual terms, and that these would necessarily in-
sure the safety of non-combatants and protect their property. But,
in truth, there was no small portion of the inhabitants who denied or
doubted, almost to the last moment, that Sherman contemplated any
serious demonstration upon the city. They assumed — and this idea
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 159
was tacitly encouraged, if not believed, by the authorities, military
and civil — that the movement on Columbia was but a feint, and that
the bulk of his army was preparing for a descent upon Charleston.
This also seemed to be the opinion in Charleston itself.
All these conjectures were speedily set at rest, when, on the 13th
February ( [Monday), the Federal army was reported to have reached
a point in Lexington District, some ten miles above Jeffcoat's.
On the 11th, their progress brought them to Thorn's Creek, the
stream next below Congaree Creek, and about twelve miles below the
city. Here the Confederate troops, consisting of the mounted men of
Hampton, Wheeler, Butler, &c, made stubborn head against Sher-
man, holding him in check by constant skirmishing. This skirmish-
ing continued throughout Wednesday, but failed to arrest his pro-
gress ; and as the Federal cannon continued momently to sound
more heavily upon our ears, we were but too certainly assured of the
hopelessness of the struggle. The odds of force against the Con-
federates were too vast for any valor or generalship to make head
against it ; and yet. almost to this moment, the hope was held out to
the people, in many quarters, that the city could be saved. It was
asserted that the corps of Cheatham and Stewart were making
forced marches, with the view to a junction with the troops under
Beauregard, and. such was the spirit of the Confederate troops, and
one of the Generals at least, that almost at the moment when Sher-
man's advance was entering the town, Hampton's cavalry was in
order of battle, and only waiting the command to charge it. But
the horrors of a street fight in a defenceless city, filled with women
and children, were prudently avoided ; and the Confederate troops
were drawn off from the scene at the very hour when the Federals
were entering upon it. But we anticipate.
Whatever hopes might have been entertained of the ultimate suc-
cess of our defences, they were all dissipated, when, by daylight, on
the 16th (Thursday), the Confederate troops re-entered the city,
burning the several bridges over the Congaree. the Broad and Saluda
Rivers. They were quartered through the day about the streets,
and along their several bivouacs they dug slight excavations in the
earth, as for rifle pits and for protection from the shells, which fell
fast and thick about the town. The shelling commenced the even-
ing before, and continued throughout the night and the next day.
No summons for surrender had been made : no warning of any kind
was given. Xew batteries were in rapid progress of erection on the
west side of the Congaree, the more effectually to press the work of
destruction. The damage was comparatively slight. The new
160 MEMORABILIA AND
Capitol building was struck five times, but suffered little or no injury.
Numerous shells fell into the inhabited portions of the town, yet
we hear of only two persons killed — one on the hospital square, and
another near the South Carolina Railroad depot. The venerable
Mr. S. J. Wagner, from Charleston, an aged citizen of near eighty,
narrowly escaped with life, a shell bursting at his feet. His face
was excoriated by the fragments, and for a while his eye-sight was
lost ; but we are happy to state that the hurts were slight, and he is
now as well as ever.
On Wednesday, the loth, the city was placed under martial law,
and the authority confided to General E. M. Law, assisted by Mayor
Goodwyn and Captains W. B. Stanley and John McKenzie. With
characteristic energy, this officer executed his trusts, and was em-
ployed day and night in the maintenance of order. This, with some
few exceptions, was surprisingly maintained. There was some
riotous conduct after night. Some highway robberies were com-
mitted, and several stores broken open and robbed. But, beyond
these, there were but few instances of crime and insubordination.
Terrible, meanwhile, was the press, the shock, the rush, the hurry,
the universal confusion — such as might naturally be looked for, in
the circumstances of a city from which thousands were preparing
to fly, without previous preparations for flight — burdened with pale
and trembling women, their children and portable chattels— trunks
and jewels, family Bibles and the lares familiar es. The railroad depot
forCharlette was crowded with anxious waiters upon the train — with
a wilderness of luggage, millions, perhaps, in value — much of which
was left finally and lost. Throughout Tuesday. Wednesday and
Thursday, these scenes of struggle were in constant performance.
The citizens fared badly. The Governments of the State and of the
Confederacy absorbed all the modes of conveyance. Transportation
about the city could not be had, save by a rich or favored few. No
love could persuade where money failed to convince, and SELF, grow-
ing bloated in its dimensions, stared one from every hurrying aspect,
as you traversed the excited and crowded streets. In numerous
instances, those who succeeded in getting away, did so at the cost of
trunks and luggage; and under what discomfort they departed, no
one who did not see can readily conceive.
The end was rapidly approaching. The guns were resounding at
the gates. Defence was impossible. At a late hour on Thursday
night, the Governor, with his suite and a large train of officials, de-
parted. The Confederate army began its evacuation, and by day-
light few remained who were not resigned to the necessity of seeing
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 161
the tragedy played out. After all the depletion, the city contained,
according to our estimate, at least twenty thousand inhabitants, the
larger proportion being females and children and negroes. Hamp-
ton's cavalry, as we have already mentioned, lingered till near 10
o'clock the next day, and scattered groups of Wheeler's command
hovered about the Federal army at their entrance into the town.
The inhabitants were startled at daylight, on Friday morning, by
a heavy explosion. This was the South Carolina Railroad Depot.
It was accidentally blown up. Broken open by a band of plunderers,
among whom were many females and negroes, their reckless greed
precipitated their fate. This building had been made the receptacle
of supplies from sundry quarters, and was crowded with stores of
merchants and planters, trunks of treasure, innumerable wares and
goods of fugitives — all of great value. It appears that, among its
contents, were some kegs of powder. The plunderers paid, and
suddenly, the penalties of their crime. Using their lights freely and
hurriedly, the better to pick, they fired a train of powder leading to
the kegs. The explosion followed, and the number of persons de-
stroyed is variously estimated, from seventeen to fifty. It is proba-
ble that not more than thirty-five suffered, but the actual number
perishing is unascertained.
At an early hour on P'riday, the commissary and quartermaster
stores were thrown wide, the contents cast out into the streets and
given to the people. The negroes especially loaded themselves with
plunder. All this might have been saved, had the officers been duly
warned by the military authorities of the probable issue of the strug-
gle. Wheeler's cavalry also shared largely of this plunder, and
several of them might be seen, bearing off huge bales upon their
saddles.
It was proposed that the white flag should be displayed from the
tower of the City Hall. But General Hampton, whose command
had not yet left the city, and who was still eager to do battle in its
defence, indignantly declared that if displayed, he should have it
torn down.
The following letter from the Mayor to General Sherman was the
initiation of the surrender :
Mayor's Oeeice, Columbia, S. C, February 17, 1865.
To Major General Sherman: The Confederate forces having
evacuated Columbia, I deem it my duty, as Mayor and representative
of the city, to ask for its citizens the treatment accorded by the
usages of civilized warfare. I therefore respectfully request that
you will send a sufficient guard in advance of the army, to maintain
11— M
162 MEMORABILIA AND
order in the city and protect the persons and property of the citizens.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. J. GOODWYX, Mayor.
At 9 o'clock, on the painfully memorable morning of the 17th
February (Friday), a deputation from the City Council, consisting
of the Mayor, Aldermen McKenzie, Bates and Stork, in a carriage
bearing a white flag, proceeded towards the Broad River Bridge
Road. Arriving at the forks of the Winnsboro Road, they discov-
ered that the Confederate skirmishers were still busy with their guns,
playing upon the advance of the Federals. These were troops of
General Wheeler. This conflict was continued simply to afford the
main army all possible advantages of a start in their retreat. General
Wheeler apprised the deputation that his men would now be with-
drawn, and instructed them in what manner to proceed. The depu-
tation met the column of the Federals, under Captain Piatt, who
sent them forward to Colonel Stone, who finally took his seat with
them in the carriage. The advance belonged to the 15th corps.
The Mayor reports that on surrendering the city to Colonel Stone,
the latter assured him of the safety of the citizens and of the protec-
tion of their property, while under his command. He could not
answer for General Sherman, who was in the rear, but he expressed
the conviction that he would fully confirm the assurances which he
(Colonel Stone) had given. Subsequently, General Sherman did
confirm them, and that night, seeing that the Mayor was exhausted
by his labors of the day, he counselled him to retire to rest, saying,
"Not a finger's breadth, Mr. Mayor, of your city shall be harmed.
You may He down to sleep, satisfied that your town shall be as safe
in my hands as if wholly in your own." Such was very nearly the
language in which he spoke; such was the substance 'of it. He
added : "It will become my duty to destroy some of the public or
Government buildings ; but I will reserve this performance to an-
other day. It shall be done to-morrow, provided the day be calm."
And the Mayor retired with this solemnly asserted and repeated
assurance.
About 11 o'clock, the head of the column, following the deputa-
tion — the flag of the United States surmounting the carriage —
reached Market Hall, on Main street, while that of the corps was
cairied in the rear. On their way to the city, the carriage was
stopped, and the officer was informed that a large body of Confede-
rate cavalry was flanking them. Colonel Stone said to the Mayor,
"We shall hold you responsible for this!" The Mayor explained,
that the road leading to Winnsboro, by which the Confederates were
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 163
retreating, ran nearly parallel for a short distance with the river
road, which accounted for the apparent flanking-. Two officers, who
arrived in Columbia ahead of the deputation (having crossed the
river at a point directly opposite the city), were fired upon by one of
Wheeler's cavalry. We are particular in mentioning this fact, as
we learn that, subsequently, the incident was urged as a justifica-
tion of the sack and burning of the city.
Hardly had the troops reached the head of Main street, when the
work of pillage was begun. Stores were broken open within the
first hour after their arrival, and gold, silver, jewels and liquors,
eagerly sought. The authorities, officers, soldiers, all, seemed to
consider it a matter of course. And woe to him who carried a
watch with gold chain pendant ; or who wore a choice hat, or over-
coat, or boots or shoes. He was stripped in the twinkling of an eye.
It is computed that, from first to last, twelve hundred watches were
transferred from the pockets of their owners to those of the soldiers.
Purses shared the same fate ; nor was the Confederate currency re-
pudiated. But of all these things hereafter, in more detail.
At about 12 o'clock, the jail was discovered to be on fire from
within. This building was immediately in rear of the Market, or
City Hall, and in a densely built portion of the city. The supposi-
tion is that it was fired by some of the prisoners — all of whom were
released and subsequently followed the army. The fire of the jail
had been preceded by that of some cotton piled in the streets. Both
fires were soon subdued by the firemen. At about half-past 1 P. M.,
that of the jail was rekindled, and was again extinguished. Some
of the prisoners, who had been confined at the Asylum, had made
their escape, in some instances, a few days before, and were secreted
and protected by citizens. No one felt safe in his own dwelling;
and, in the faith that General Sherman would respect the Convent,
and have it properly guarded, numbers of young ladies were con-
fided to the care of the Mother Superior, and even trunks of clothes
and treasure were sent thither, in full confidence that they would find
safety. Vain illusions ! The Irish Catholic troops, it appears, were
not brought into the city at all ; were kept on the other side of the
river. But a few Catholics were collected among the corps which
occupied the city, and of the conduct of these, a favorable account is
given. One of them rescued a silver goblet of the church, used as a
drinking cup by a soldier, and restored it to the Rev. Dr. O'Connell.
This priest, by the way, was severely handled by the soldiers. Such,
also, was the fortune of the Rev. Mr. Shand, of Trinity (the Episco-
pal) Church, who sought in vain to save a trunk containing the
164 MEMORABILIA AND
sacred vessels of his church. It was violently wrested from his keep-
ing, and his struggle to save it only provoked the rougher usage.
We are since told that, on reaching Camden, General Sherman re-
stored what he believed were these vessels to Bishop Davis. It has
since been discovered that the plate belonged to St. Peter's Church in
Charleston.
And here it may be well to mention, as suggestive of many clues,
an incident which presented a sad commentary on that confidence in
the security of the Convent, which was entertained by the great por-
tion of the people. This establishment, under the charge of the
sister of the Right Rev. Bishop Lynch, was at once a convent and an
academy of the highest class. Hither were sent for education the
daughters of Protestants, of the most wealthy classes throughout the
State ; and these, with the nuns and those young ladies sent thither
on the emergency, probably exceeded one hundred. The Lady
Superior herself entertained the fullest confidence in the immunities
of the establishment. But her confidence was clouded, after she had
enjoyed a conference with a certain major of the Yankee army, who
described himself as an editor, from Detroit. He visited her at an
early hour in the day, and announced his friendly sympathies with
the Lady Superior and the sisterhood ; professed his anxiety for their
safety — his purpose to do all that he could to insure it — declared that
he would instantly go to Sherman and secure a chosen guard ; and,
altogether, made such professions of love and service, as to disarm
those suspicions, which his bad looks and bad manners, inflated
speech and pompous carriage, might otherwise have provoked. The
Ladv Superior, with such a charge in her hands, was naturally glad
to welcome all shows and prospects of support, and expressed her
gratitude. He disappeared, and soon after reappeared, bringing
with him no less than eight or ten men — none of them, as he ad-
mitted, being Catholics. He had some specious argument to show
that, perhaps, her guard had better be one of Protestants. This sug-
gestion staggered the lady a little, but he seemed to convey a more
potent reason, when he added, in a whisper : "For I must tell you, my
sister, that Columbia is a doomed city!" Terrible doom! This
officer, leaving his men behind him, disappeared, to show himself no
more. The guards so left behind were finally among the most busy
as plunderers. The moment that the inmates, driven out by the fire,
were forced to abandon their house, they began to revel in its con-
tents.
Quis custodiet ipsos eustodesf — who shall guard the guards? —
asks the proverb. In a number of cases, the guards provided for the
AXKCDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 165
citizens were among the most active plunderers ; were quick to betray
their trusts, abandon their posts, and bring their comrades in to join
in the general pillage. The most dexterous and adroit of these, it is
the opinion of most persons, were chiefly Eastern men, or men of
immediate Eastern origin. The Western men, including the Indiana,
a portion of the Illinois and Iowa, were neither so dexterous nor un-
scrupulous — were frequently faithful and respectful ; and, perhaps, it
would be safe to assert that many of the houses which escaped the
sack and fire, owed their safety to the presence or the contiguity of
some of these men. But we must retrace our steps.
It may be well to remark that the discipline of the soldiers, upon
their first entry into the city, was perfect and most admirable. There
was no disorder or irregularity on the line of march, showing that
their officers had them completely in hand. They were a fine looking
body of men, mostly young and of vigorous formation, well clad and
well shod, seemingly wanting in nothing. Their arms and accoutre-
ments were in bright order. The negroes accompanying them were
not numerous, and seemed mostly to act as drudges and body ser-
vants. They groomed horses, waited, carried burdens, and, in almost
every instance under our eyes, appeared in a purely servile, and not
a military, capacity. The men of the West treated them generally
with scorn or indifference, sometimes harshly, and not unfrequently
with blows.
But, if the entrance into town and while on duty, was indicative of
admirable drill and discipline, such ceased to be the case the moment
the troops were dismissed. Then, whether by tacit permission or
direct command, their whole deportment underwent a sudden and
rapid change. The saturnalia soon began. We have shown that
the robbery of persons of the citizens and the plunder of their homes
commenced within one hour after they had reached the Market Hall.
It continued without interruption throughout the day. Sherman, at
the head of his cavalry, traversed the streets everywhere — so did his
officers. Subsequently, these officers were everywhere on foot, yet
beheld nothing which required the interposition of authority. And
yet robbery was going on at every corner — in nearly every house.
Citizens generally applied for a guard at their several houses, and,
for a time, these guards were allotted them. These might be faithful
or not. In some cases, as already stated, they were, and civil and
respectful ; considerate of the claims of women, and never trespass-
ing upon the privacy of the family; but, in numbers of cases, they
were intrusive, insulting and treacherous — leaving no privacy undis-
turbed, passing without a word into the chambers and prying into
166 MEMORABILIA AND
every crevice and corner. But the reign of terror did not fairly
begin till night. In some instances, where parties complained of
the misrule and robbery, their guards said to them, with a chuckle :
"This is nothing. Wait till to-night, and you'll see h — 11."
Among the first fires at evening was one about dark, which broke
out in a filthy purlieu of low houses, of wood, on Gervais street,
occupied mostly as brothels. Almost at the same time, a body of- the
soldiers scattered over the Eastern outskirts of the city, fired sever-
ally the dwellings of Mr. Secretary Trenholm, General Wade Hamp-
ton, Dr. John Wallace, Mr. J. U. Adams. Mrs. Starke, Mr. Latta,
Mrs. English, and many others. There were then some twenty fires in
full blast, in as many different quarters, and while the alarm sounded
from these quarters, a similar alarm was sent up almost simultane-
ously from Cotton Town, the northernmost limit of the citv, and from
Main street in its very centre, at the several stores or houses of O. Z.
Bates, C. D. Eberhardt, and some others, in the heart of the most
densely settled portion of the town ; thus enveloping in flames almost
every section of the devoted city. At this period, thus early in the
evening, there were few shows of that drunkenness which prevailed
at a late hour in the night, and only after all the grocery shops on
Main street had been rifled. The men engaged in this were well
prepared with all the appliances essential to their work. They did
not need the torch. They carried with them, from house to house,
pots and vessels containing combustible liquids, composed probably
of phosphorus and other similar agents, turpentine, &c. ; and, with
balls of cotton saturated in this liquid, with which they also over-
spread floors and walls, they conveyed the flames with wonderful
rapidity from dwelling to dwelling. Each had his ready box of
Lucifer matches, and, with a scrape upon the walls, the flames began
to rage. Where houses were closely contiguous, a brand from one
was the means of conveying destruction to the other.
The winds favored. They had been high throughout the day, and
steadily prevailed from southwest by west, and bore the flames east-
ward. To this fact we owe the preservation of the portions of the
city lying west of Assembly street.
The work, begun thus vigorously, went on without impediment
and with hourly increase throughout the night. Engines and hose
were brought out by the firemen, but these were soon driven from
their labors — which were indeed idle against such a storm of fire —
by the pertinacious hostility of the soldiers ; the hose was hewn to
pieces, and the firemen, dreading worse usage to themselves, left the
field in despair. Meanwhile, the flames spread from side to side,
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 167
from front to rear, from street to street, and where their natural and
inevitable progress was too slow for those who had kindled them,
they helped them on by the application of fresh combustibles and
more rapid agencies of conflagration. By midnight, Main street,
from its northern to its southern extremity, was a solid wall of fire.
By 12 o'clock, the great blocks, which included the banking houses
and the Treasury buildings, were consumed; Janney's (Congaree)
and Nickerson's Hotels ; the magnificent manufactories of Evans &
Cogswell — indeed, every large block in the business portion of the
city; the old Capitol and all the adjacent buildings were in ruins.
The range called the "Granite" was beginning to flame at 12, and
might have been saved by ten vigorous men. resolutely working.
At 1 o'clock, the hour was struck by the clock of the Market Hall,
which was even then illuminated from within. It was its own last
hour which it sounded, and its tongue was silenced forevermore. In
less than five minutes after, its spire went down with a crash, and, by
this time, almost all the buildings within the precinct were a mass of
ruins.
Very grand, and terrible, beyond description, was the awful spec-
tacle. It was a scene for the painter of the terrible. It was the
blending of a range of burning mountains stretched in a continuous
series for more than a mile. Here was ^Etna, sending up its spouts
of flaming lava ; Vesuvius, emulous of like display, shooting up with
loftier torrents, and Stromboli, struggling, with awful throes, to
shame both by its superior volumes of fluid flame. The winds were
tributary to these convulsive efforts, and tossed the volcanic torrents
hundreds of feet in air. Great spouts of flame spread aloft in cano-
pies of sulphurous cloud — wreaths of sable, edged with sheeted
lightnings, wrapped the skies, and, at short intervals, the falling
tower and the tottering wall, avalanche-like, went down with thun-
derous sound, sending up at every crash great billowy showers of
glowing fiery embers.
Throughout the whole of this terrible scene the soldiers continued
their search after spoil. The houses were severally and soon gutted
of their contents. Hundreds of iron safes, warranted "impenetrable
to fire and the burglar," it was soon satisfactorily demonstrated,
were not "Yankee proof." They were split open and robbed, yield-
ing, in some cases, very largely of Confederate money and bonds, if
not of gold and silver. Jewelry and plate in abundance was found.
Men could be seen staggering off with huge waiters, vases, cande-
labra, to say nothing of cups, goblets and smaller vessels, all of solid
silver. Clothes and shoes, when new, were appropriated — the rest
168 MEMORABILIA AND
left to burn. Liquors were drank with such avidity as to astonish
the veteran Bacchanals of Columbia; nor did the parties thus dis-
tinguishing themselves hesitate about the vintage. There was no
idle discrimination in the matter of taste, from that vulgar liquor,
which Judge Burke used to say always provoked within him, "an
inordinate propensity to sthale," to the choicest red wines of the
ancient cellars. In one vault on Main street, seventeen casks of wine
were stored away, which, an eye-witness tells us, barely sufficed, once
broken into, for the draughts of a single hour — such were the appe-
tites at work and the numbers in possession of them. Rye, corn,
claret and Madeira all found their way into the same channels, and
we are to wonder, when told that no less than one hundred and fifty
of the drunken creatures perished miserably among the flames kin-
dled by their own comrades, and from which they were unable to
escape. The estimate will not be thought extravagant by those who
saw the condition of hundreds after 1 o'clock A. M. By others,
however, the estimate is reduced to thirty ; but the number will never
be known. Sherman's officers themselves are reported to have said
that they lost more men in the sack and burning of the city (includ-
ing certain explosions) than in all their fights while approaching it.
It is also suggested that the orders which Sherman issued at day-
light, on Saturday morning, for the arrest of the fire, were issued in
consequence of the loss of men which he had thus sustained. One
or more of his men were shot, by parties unknown, in some dark
passages or alleys — it is supposed in consequence of some attempted
outrages which humanity could not endure ; the assassin taking ad-
vantage of the obscurity of the situation and adroitly mingling with
the crowd without. And while these scenes were at their worst —
while the flames were at their highest and most extensively raging —
groups might be seen at the several corners of the streets, drinking,
roaring, revelling — while the fiddle and accordeon were playing their
popular airs among them. There was no cessation of the work till
5 A. M. on Saturday.
A single thought will suffice to show that the owners or lodgers in
the houses thus sacrificed were not silent or quiet spectators of a
conflagration which threw them naked and homeless under the skies
of night. The male population, consisting mostly of aged men, in-
valids, decrepits, women and children, were not capable of very
active or powerful exertions ; but they did not succumb to the fate
without earnest pleas and strenuous efforts. Old men and women
and children were to be seen, even while the flames were rolling
and raging around them, while walls were crackling and rafters tot-
AXKCDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 169
tering and tumbling, in the endeavor to save their clothing and some
of their most valuable effects. It was not often that they were suf-
fered to succeed. They were driven out headlong.
Ladies were hustled from their chambers — their ornaments
plucked from their persons, their bundles from their hands. It was in
vain that the mother appealed for the garments of her children. They
were torn from her grasp and hurled into the flames. The young
girl striving to save a single frock, had it rent to fibres in her grasp.
Men and women bearing off their trunks were seized, despoiled, in a
moment the trunk burst asunder with the stroke of an axe or gun-
butt, the contents laid bare, rifled of all the objects of desire, and the
residue sacrificed to the fire. You might see the ruined owner,
standing woe-begone, aghast, gazing at his tumbling dwelling, his
scattered property, with a dumb agony in his face that was inex-
pressibly touching. Others you might hear, as we did, with wild
blasphemies assailing the justice of Heaven, or invoking, with lifted
and clenched hands, the fiery wrath of the avenger. But the soldiers
plundered and drank, the fiery work raged, and the moon sailed over
all with as serene an aspect as when she first smiled upon the ark
resting against the slopes of Ararat. Such was the spectacle for
hours on the chief business street of Columbia.
We have intimated that, at an early hour in the da}', almost even-
house was visited by groups, averaging in number from two to six
persons. Some of these entered civilly enough, but pertinaciously
entered, in some cases, begging for milk, eggs, bread and meat — in
most cases, demanding them. The kitchens were entered by one
party, while another penetrated the dwelling, and the cook was fre-
quently astounded by the audacity by which the turkey, duck, fowl or
roast was transferred from the spit to the wallet of the soldier. In the
house, parties less meek of temper than these pushed their way, and
the first intimation of their presence, as they were confronted at the
entrance, was a pistol clapped at the head or bosom of the owner,
whether male or female. "Your watch!" "Your money!" was the
demand. Frequently, no demand was made. Rarely, indeed, was a
word spoken, where the watch or chain, or ring or bracelet, pre-
sented itself conspicuously to the eye. It was incontinently plucked
away from the neck, breast or bosom. Hundreds of women, still
greater numbers of old men, were thus despoiled. The slightest
show of resistance provoked violence to the person. The venerable
Mr. Alfred Huger was thus robbed in the chamber and presence of
his family, and in the eye of an almost dying wife. He offered
resistance, and was collared and dispossessed by violence. We are
170 MEMORABILIA AND
told that the venerable ex-Senator, Colonel Arthur P. Hayne, was
treated even more roughly . Mr. James Rose, besides his watch, lost
largely of choice wines, which had been confided to his keeping
But we cannot descend to examples. In the open streets the pick-
pockets were mostly active. A frequent mode of operating was by
first asking you the hour. If thoughtless enough to reply, produc-
ing the watch or indicating its possession, it was quietly taken from
hand or pocket, and transferred to the pocket of the "other gentle-
man," with some such remark as this : "A pretty little watch that.
I'll take it myself; it just suits me." And the appropriation fol-
lowed ; and if you hinted any dislike to the proceeding, a grasp was
taken of your collar and the muzzle of a revolver put to your ear.
Some of the incidents connected with this wholesale system were
rather amusing. Dr. Templeton, a well known and highly esteemed
citizen, passing along the street, was accosted by a couple of these
experts, who stopped and asked him, pointing to the arsenal building,
on the hill opposite, "What building is that?" "The State Arsenal,"
was his reply, unwisely extending his arm, as he pointed, in turn, to
the building, and revealing between the folds of his coat the shining
links of a rich gold chain. Before he could recover himself, his
chain and watch were in the grasp of the thief, who was preparing to
transfer it to his own pocket, quietly remarking, "A very pretty little
watch; just to my liking." "That is very cool," said Templeton.
"Just my way." said the fellow, walking off. "Stop," said Temple-
ton, half amazed at the coolness of the proceeding, and feeling that
he had only to put the best face on the matter. "Stop; that watch
will be of no use to you without the key ; won't you take that also ?"
"All right," replied the robber, returning and receiving the key.
The question, "What's o'clock," was the sure forerunner of an at-
tempt upon your pocket. Some parties saved their chronometers by
an adroitness which deserves to be made known. One individual re-
plied to the question : "You are too late, my good fellows. I was
asked that question already by one of your parties, at the other cor-
ner." He left them to infer that the watch was already gone, and
they passed him by. We are told of one person who, being thus
asked for the time of day by three of them, in a street in which he
could see no other of their comrades, thrust a revolver suddenly into
their faces, and cocking it quickly, cried out, "Look for yourselves."
They sheered off and left him. We, ourselves, were twice asked the
question the morning after the fire, and looking innocently to where
the City Hall clock once stood, replied, "Our city clock is gone, you
see; but it must be near 11." Mr. J. K. Robinson was assailed with
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 171
the same question by a party in the neighborhood of his house. He
denied that he had a watch. "Oh! look, look!" was the answer of
the questioner. "I need not look," quoth Robinson, "since I have
not a watch." "Look, look — a man of your appearance must own a
watch." "Well, I do ; but it is at my home — at my house."
"Where's your house? We'll go and see." He took them into his
house, suddenly called his guard and said, "These men are pursuing
me ; I know not what they want." The guard drove out the party,
with successive thrusts at them of the bayonet, and from the street,
defrauded of their spoils, they saluted house guard and owner with
all manner of horrid execrations. Hundreds of like anecdotes are
told, not merely of loss in watches, but of every other article of prop-
erty. Hats and boots, overcoats and shawls — these, when new and
attractive, were sure to be taken. Even the negroes were despoiled,
whenever the commodity was of any value. An incident occurred,
which, though amusing to read of, could not have been very pleasant
to one of the party engaged at least. A gentleman was directed to
break in the heads and empty the contents of some forty barrels of
whiskey stored at the Fair Grounds. He had proceeded with the
job only so far as breaking in the heads of the barrels, when a num-
ber of soldiers entered the building, and stopped all further proceed-
ing. They charged him with poisoning the liquor, and forced him
to take a drink from every barrel, before they would touch the con-
tents. The consequence was, that he was drunk for over a week.
Within the dwellings, the scenes were of more harsh and tragical
character, rarely softened by any ludicrous aspects, as they were
screened by the privacy of the apartment, with but few eyes to wit-
ness. The pistol to the bosom or the head of women, the patient
mother, the trembling daughter, was the ordinary introduction to
the demand, "Your gold, silver, watch, jewels." They gave no
time, allowed no pause or hesitation. It was in vain that the woman
offered her keys, or proceeded to open drawer, or wardrobe, or cabi-
net, or trunk. It was dashed to pieces by axe or gun-butt, with the
cry, "We have a shorter way than that !" It was in vain that she
pleaded to spare her furniture, and she would give up all its con-
tents. All the precious things of a family, such as the heart loves to
pore on in quiet hours when alone with memory — the dear minia-
ture, the photograph, the portrait — these were dashed to pieces,
crushed under foot, and the more the trembler pleaded for the object
so precious, the more violent the rage which destroyed it. Nothing
was sacred in their eyes, save the gold and silver which they bore
awav. Nor were these acts those of common soldiers. Commis-
IT"? MEMORABILIA AXD
sioned officers, of rank so high as that of a colonel, were frequently
among- the most active in spoliation, and not always the most tender
or considerate in the manner and acting of their crimes. And, after
glutting themselves with spoil, would often utter the foulest
speeches, coupled with oaths as condiment, dealing in what they
assumed, besides, to be bitter sarcasms upon the cause and country.
"And what do you think of the Yankees now?" was a frequent ques-
tion. "Do you not fear us, now?" "What do you think of seces-
sion?" &c, &c. "We mean to wipe you out! We'll burn the very
stones of South Carolina." Even General Howard, who is said to
have been once a pious parson, is reported to have made this reply
to a citizen who had expostulated with him on the monstrous crime
of which his army had been guilty: "It is only what the country
deserves. It is her fit punishment ; and if this does not quiet rebel-
lion, and we have to return, we will do this work thoroughly. We
will not leave woman or child."
Almost universally, the women of Columbia behaved themselves
nobly under their insults. They preserved that patient, calm de-
meanor, that simple, almost masculine firmness, which so becomes
humanity in the hour of trial, when nothing can be opposed to the
tempest but the virtue of inflexible endurance. They rarely replied
to these insults ; but looking coldly into the faces of the assailants,
heard them in silence and with unblenching cheeks. When forced
to answer, they did so in monosyllables only, or in brief, stern lan-
guage, avowed their confidence in the cause of their country, the
principles and rights for which their brothers and sons fought, and
their faith in the ultimate favor and protection of God. One or two
of many of these dialogues — if they may be called such, where one
of the parties can urge his speech with all the agencies of power for
its enforcement, and with all his instruments of terror in sight, while
the other stands exposed to the worst terrors which maddened pas-
sions, insolent in the consciousness of strength — may suffice as a
sample of many: "Well, what do you think of the Yankees now?"
"Do you expect a favorable opinion?" "No! d— n it! But you
fear us, and that's enough." "No — we do not fear you." "What!
not yet?" "Not yet!" "But you shall fear us." "Never!" "We'll
make you." "You may inflict, we can endure; but fear — never!
Anything but that." "We'll make you fear us !" clapping a revolver
to the lady's head. Her eye never faltered. Her cheek never
changed its color. Her lips were firmly compressed. Her arms
folded on her bosom. The eye of the assassin glared into her own.
She met the encounter without flinching, and he lowered the imple-
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 173
nient of murder, with an oath : "D — n it ! You have pluck enough
for a whole regiment !" In a great many cases the guard behaved
themselves well, using their utmost endeavors to protect the prop-
erty under their charge, even to the use of the bayonet. An officer,
Lieutenant McQueen, stopped with Dr. Wm. Reynolds, and during
the fire worked manfully, and was the means of saving the residence
from destruction. His gentlemanly manners won the respect and
confidence of the family, and when he was on the point of leaving,
the doctor gave him a letter, signed by several gentlemen, acknow-
ledging his grateful feelings for the manner in which he had been
treated ; saying that the fortunes of war might some time place him
in a position that the letter might be of use to him. This proved to
be the case. At the skirmish near Lynch's Creek, this officer was
wounded and captured. On showing the letter to a friend of Dr.
Reynolds, who happened to be in the hospital, he was removed to a
private house, every attention shown him, and when he was able to
move, a special parole was obtained for him, and he returned to his
home.
-The '"pluck" of our women was especially a subject of acknow-
ledgment. They could admire a quality with which they had not soul
to sympathize — or rather the paramount passion for greed and plun-
der kept in subjection all other qualities, without absolutely extin-
guishing them from their minds and thoughts. To inspire terror in
the weak, strange to say, seemed to them a sort of heroism. To extort
fear and awe appeared to their inordinate vanity a tribute more grate-
ful than any other, and a curious conflict was sometimes carried on
in their minds between their vanity and cupidity. Occasionally
they gave with one hand, while they robbed with another. Several
curious instances of this nature took place, one of which must suf-
fice. A certain Yankee officer happened to hear that an old acquaint-
ance of his, whom he had known intimately at West Point and
Louisiana, was residing in Columbia. He went to see him after the
fire, and ascertained that his losses had been very heavy, exceeding
two hundred thousand dollars. The parties had not separated for
an hour, when a messenger came from the Yankee, bringing a box,
which contained one hundred thousand dollars in Confederate notes.
This the Yankee begged his Southern friend to accept, as helping to
make up his losses. The latter declined the gift, not being alto-
gether satisfied in conscience with regard to it. In many cases,
Confederate money by the handful was bestowed by the officers and
soldiers upon parties from whom they had robbed the last particles
of clothing, and even General Sherman could give to parties, whom
lTrt MEMORABILIA AND
he knew, the flour and bacon which had been taken from starving
widows and orphans. So he left with the people of Columbia a
hundred old muskets for their protection, while emptying their arse-
nals of a choice collection of beautiful Enfield rifles. And so the
starving citizens of Columbia owe to him a few hundred starving-
cattle, which he had taken from the starving people of Beaufort,
Barnwell, Orangeburg and Lexington — cattle left without food, and
for which food could not be found, and dying of exhaustion at the
rate of fifteen to twenty head per diem.
In this connection and this section, in which we need to devote so
much of our space to the cruel treatment of our women, we think it
proper to include a communication from the venerable Dr. Sill, one
of the most esteemed and well-known citizens of Columbia. It is
from his own pen, and the facts occurred under his own eyes. We
give this as one of a thousand like cases, witnessed by a thousand
eyes, and taking place at the same time in every quarter of the city,
almost from the hour of the arrival of the army to that of its depart-
ure. He writes as follows :
"On Thursday, the day before the evacuation of the city by the
Confederate forces, I invited a very poor French lady (Madame
Pelletier), with her child, refugees from Charleston, to take shelter
in my house, where they might, at least, have such protection as I
could give her, shelter and food for herself and child. She was
poor, indeed, having very little clothing, and only one or two imple-
ments — a sewing machine and a crimping apparatus — by means of
which she obtained a precarious support. My own family (happily)
and servants being all absent, and being myself wholly incapacitated
by years of sickness from making any exertion, all that the poor
widow woman and myself could remove from my house, besides the
few things of hers, consisted of two bags of flour, a peck of meal,
and about the same of grist, and about thirty pounds of bacon and a
little sugar. These few things we managed to get out of the house,
and, by the aid of a wheelbarrow, removed about fifty yards from the
burning buildings. Waiting then and there, waiting anxiously the
progress and direction of the fire, we soon found that we had been
robbed of one bag of flour and a trunk of valuable books of account
and papers. The fire continuing to advance on us, we found it
necessary to remove again. About this time, there came up a stal-
wart soldier, about six feet high, accoutred with pistols, Bowie-knife,
&c, and stooping down over the remaining bag of flour, demanded
of the poor French lady what the bag contained. Having lost, but
a few moments before, almost everything she had in the way of
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 1T5
provisions, she seemed most deeply and keenly alive to her destitute
situation, in the event she should lose the remaining bag of flour ,
the last and only hope of escape from starvation of her child and
herself. She fell upon her knees, with hands uplifted, in a suppli-
cating manner, and most piteously and imploringly set forth her
situation — an appeal which, under the circumstances, it would be
impossible to conceive, more touching or heart-rending. She told
him she was not here of her own choice ; that herself and husband
had come to Charleston in 1860 to better their fortunes ; that they
had been domiciled in Xew Jersey, where her husband had taken the
necessary steps to become a citizen of the United States. She had in
her hand his papers vouching the truth of her statement : that her
husband had died of yellow fever in Charleston ; that being unable,
from want of the means, to return to Xew Jersey, she had been
driven from Charleston to Columbia ( a refugee, flying from the
enemy's shells), to try to make an honest support for herself and
child. To all this, he not only turned a deaf ear, but deliberately
drew from his breast a huge shining Bowie-knife, brandished it in
her face, rudely pushed her aside, using, at the same time, the most
menacing and obscene language ; shouldered the bag of flour, and
marched off, leaving the poor starving creature, with her helpless
child, overwhelmed with grief and despair. E. SiLE."
This surely is very piteous to hear, and were the case an isolated
one, it would probably move compassion in every heart ; but where
the miseries of like and worse sort, of a whole community of twenty
thousand, are massed, as it were, together before the eyes, the
sensibilities become obtuse, and the universal suffering seems to de-
stroy the sensibilities in all. We shall not seek to multiply instances
like the foregoing, which would be an endless work and to little
profit.
General Sherman tells General Hampton that, could he find any
civil authority, and could they provide him with forage and provi-
sions, he would suffer no foraging upon the people. His logic and
memory are equally deficient. Was there no Mayor and Council in
Columbia? They had formally surrendered the city into his hands.
They constituted the civil authority ; but he made no requisition
upon them for provisions for his troops. He did not say to them,
"Supply me with twenty thousand rations in so many hours." Had
he done so, the rations would have been forthcoming. The citizens
would have been only too glad, by yielding up one-half of their
stores, to have saved the other half, and to have preserved their
dwellings from the presence of the soldiers. Nay, did not the in-
176 MEMORABILIA AND
dwellers of every house — we will say five thousand houses — seek at
his hands a special guard — which usually consisted of two men — and
were not these fed wholly by the families where they lodged during
the whole time of their stay ? Here, by a very simple computation,
we find that ten thousand soldiers were thus voluntarily provided
with rations ; and a requisition for twenty thousand men might
easily and would probably have been provided, had any such been
made ; for the supplies in the city were abundant of every sort — the
population generally having laid in largely, and without stint or
limit, anticipating a period of general scarcity from the march of the
enemy. But, even had the people been unable to supply these pro-
visions — even had the Council failed to respond to these requisitions
— at whose doors should the blame be laid ? The failure would have
been the direct consequences of General Sherman's own proceedings.
Had he not ravaged and swept, with a besom of fire, all the tracts of
country upon which the people of Columbia depended for their
supplies? Had he not, himself, cut off all means of transportation,
in the destruction, not only of the railways, but of every wagon, cart,
vehicle, on all the plantations through which he had passed — carry-
ing off all the beasts of burden of any value, and cutting the throats
of the remainder? He cuts off the feet and arms of a people, and
then demands that they shall bring him food and forage ! But even
this pretext, if well grounded, can avail him nothing. He was
suffering from no sort of necessity. It was the boast of every officer
and soldier in his army, that he had fed fat upon the country through
which he had passed; everywhere finding abundance, and had not
once felt the necessity of lifting the cover from his own wagons, and
feeding from his own accumulated stores. But the complaint of
Hampton, and of our people at large, is not that he fed his followers
upon the country, but that he destroyed what he did not need for
food, and tore the bread from the famishing mouths of a hundred
thousand women and children — feeble infancy and decrepit age.
We have adverted to the outrages which were perpetrated within
the households of the citizen, where, unrestrained by the rebuking
eyes of their own comrades, and unresisted by their interposition,
cupidity, malignity and lust, sought to glut their several appetites.
The cupidity generally triumphed over the lust. The greed for gold
and silver swallowed up the more animal passions, and drunkenness
supervened in season for the safety of many. We have heard of
some few outrages, or attempts at outrage, of the worst sort, but the
instances, in the case of white females, must have been very few.
There was, perhaps, a wholesome dread of goading to desperation the
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 177
people whom they had despoiled of all but honor. They could see,
in many watchful and guardian eyes, the lurking expression which
threatened sharp vengeance, should their trespasses proceed to
those extremes which they yet unquestionably contemplated. The
venerable Mr. H — stood ready, with his couteau de chassc, made
bare in his bosom, hovering around the persons of his innocent
daughters. Mr. O — , on beholding some too familiar approach to
one of his daughters, bade the man stand off at the peril of his life ;
saying that while he submitted to be robbed of property, he would
sacrifice life without reserve — his own and that of the assailant —
before his child's honor should be abused. Mr. James G. Gibbes
with difficulty, pistol in hand, and only with the assistance of a Yan-
kee officer, rescued two young women from the clutches of as many
ruffians. We have been told of successful outrages of this unmen-
tionable character being practiced upon women dwelling in the
suburbs. Many are understood to have taken place in remote coun-
try settlements, and two cases are described where young negresses
were brutally forced by the wretches and afterwards murdered —
one of them being thrust, when half dead, head down, into a mud
puddle, and there held until she was suffocated. But this must
suffice. The shocking details should not now be made, but that we
need, for the sake of truth and humanity, to put on record the horrid
deeds. And yet, we should grossly err if, while showing the for-
bearance of the soldiers in respect to our white women, we should
convey to any innocent reader the notion that they exhibited a like
forbearance in the case of the black. The poor negroes were terri-
bly victimized by their assailants, many of them, besides the instance
mentioned, being left in a condition little short of death. Regiments-
in successive relays, subjected scores of these poor women to the
torture of their embraces, and — but we dare not further pursue the
subject. There are some horrors which the historian dare not pur-
sue — which the painter dare not delineate. They both drop the
curtain over crimes which humanity bleeds to contemplate.
Some incidents of gross brutality, which show how well prepared
were these men for every crime, however monstrous, may be given.
A lady, undergoing the pains of labor, had to be borne out on a
mattress into the open air, to escape the fire. It was in vain that her
situation was described as the soldiers applied the torch within and
without the house, after they had penetrated every chamber and
robbed them of all that was either valuable or portable. They be-
held the situation of the sufferer, and laughed to scorn the prayer
for her safety. Another lady, Mrs. J , was but recently con-
12— M
178 MEMORABILIA AND
fined. Her condition was very helpless. Her life hung upon a hair.
The men were apprised of all the facts in the case. They burst into
the chamber — took the rings from the lady's fingers — plucked the
watch from beneath her pillow, and so overwhelmed her with terror,
that she sunk under the treatment — surviving their departure but a
day or two. In several instances, parlors, articles of crockery, and
even beds, were used by the soldiers as if they were water closets.
In one case, a party used vessels in this way, then put them on the
bed, fired at and smashed them to pieces, emptying the filthy con-
tents over the bedding. In several cases, newly made graves were
opened, the coffins taken out, broken open, in search of buried trea-
sure, and the corpses left exposed. Every spot in grave-yard or
garden, which seemed to have been recently disturbed, was sounded
with sword, or bayonet, or ramrod, in their desperate search after
spoil.
In this grave connection, we have to narrate a somewhat pictur-
esque transaction, less harsh of character and less tragic, and pre-
serving a somewhat redeeming aspect to the almost uniform brutality
of our foes. Mr. M. M. C had a guard given him for his home,
who not only proved faithful to their trust, but showed themselves
gentle and unobtrusive. Their comrades, in large numbers, were
encamped on the adjoining and vacant lands. These latter pene-
trated his grounds, breaking their way through the fences, and it
was not possible, where there were so many, to prevent their aggres-
sion entirely. The guard kept them out of the dwelling, and
preserved its contents. They were not merely civil, but amused the
children of the family; played with them, sympathized in their fun,
and contributed to their little sports in sundry ways. The children
owned a pretty little pet, a grey-hound, which was one of the most
interesting of their sources of enjoyment. The soldiers without
seemed to remark this play of the guard with the children and dog
with discontent and displeasure. They gave several indications of
a morose temper in regard to them, and, no doubt, they considered
the guard with hostility, per se, as guard, and because of their faith-
ful protection of the family. At length, their displeasure prompted
one of them to take an active but cruel part in the pastimes of the
children. Gathering up a stone, he watched his moment, and
approaching the group, where they were at play, suddenly dashed
out the brains of the little dog, at the very feet of the children. They
were terribly frightened, of comrse, at this cruel exhibition of power
and malignity. Their grief followed in bitter lamentations and
tears. To soothe them, the soldiers of the guard took up the remains
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 179
of the dog, dug for it a grave in one of the flower beds of the gar-
den, tenderly laid it in the earth, and raised a mound over it, pre-
cisely as if it had been a human child. A stake at the head and feet
rendered the proceeding complete. That night, Mr. C , re-
turning home, his wife remarked to him : "We have lost our silver.
It was buried in the very spot where these men have buried the dog.
They have no doubt found it, and it is lost to us." It was impossible
then to attempt any search for the relief of their anxiety, until the
departure of the troops. When they had gone, however, the search
was eagerly made, and the buried treasure found untouched. But
the escape was a narrow one. The cavity made for the body of the
dog approached within a few inches the box of silver. Mayor Good-
wyn also saved a portion of his plate through the fidelity of his
guard. But he lost his dwelling and everything besides. We be-
lieve that, in every instance where the guard proved faithful, they
were Western men. They professed to revolt at the spectacles of
crime which they were compelled to witness, and pleaded the neces-
sity of a blind obedience to orders, in justification of their share of
the horrors to which they lent their hands. Just before the confla-
gration began, about the dusk of evening, while the Mayor was con-
versing with one of the Western men, from Iowa, three rockets were
shot up by the enemy from the capitol square. As the soldier beheld
these rockets, he cried out: "Alas! alas! for your poor city! It is
doomed. Those rockets are the signal. The town is to be fired."
In less than twenty minutes after, the flames broke out in twenty
distinct quarters. Similar statements were made by other soldiers
in different quarters of the city.
Of the conflagration itself, we have already given a sufficient idea,
so far as words may serve for the description of a scene which beg-
gars art and language to portray. We have also shown, in some
degree, the usual course of procedure among the soldiers ; how they
fired the dwelling as they pillaged; how they abused and outraged
the in-dwellers ; how they mocked at suffering, scorned the pleadings
of women and innocence. As the flames spread from house to
house, you could behold, through long vistas of the lurid empire of
flames and gloom, the miserable tenants of the once peaceful home
issuing forth in dismay, bearing the chattels most useful or precious,
and seeking escape through the narrow channels which the flames
left them only in the centre of the streets. Fortunately, the streets
of Columbia are very wide, and greatly protected by umbrageous
trees, set in regular order, and which, during the vernal season, con-
fer upon the city one of its most beautiful features. But for this
180 MEMORABILIA AND
width of its passages, thousands must have been burned to death.
These families moved in long procession, the aged sire or grand-sire
first — a sad, worn and tottering man, walking steadily on, with rigid,
set features and tearless eyes — too much stricken, too much stunned,
for any ordinary shows of suffering. Perhaps, the aged wife hung
upon one arm, while the other was supported by a daughter. And
huddling close, like terrified partridges, came the young, each bear-
ing some little bundle — all pressing forward under the lead of the
sire, and he witless where to go. The ascending fire-spouts flamed
before them on every hand — shouts assailed them at every step — the
drunken soldiers danced around them as they went, piercing their
ears with horrid threats and imprecations. The little bundles were
snatched from the grasp of their trembling bearers, torn open, and
what was not appropriated, was hurled into the contiguous pile of
flame. And group after group, stream after stream of fugitives
thus pursued their way through the paths of flaming and howling
horror, only too glad to fling themselves on the open ground,
whither, in some cases, they had succeeded in conveying a feather
bed or mattress. The malls, or open squares, the centres of the wide
streets, like Assembly street, were thus strewn with piles of bedding,
on which lay exhausted mothers — some of them with anxious phy-
sicians in attendance, and girdled by crouching children and infants,
wild and almost idiotic with their terrors. In one case, as we have
mentioned, a woman about to become a mother was thus borne out
from a burning dwelling. It was scarcely possible to advise in which
direction to fly. The churches were at first sought by many several
streams of population. But these were found to afford no security
— the churches of God were set on flame. Again driven forth, num-
bers made their way into the recesses of Sidney Park, and here
fancied to find security, as but few houses occupied the neighbor-
hood, and these not sufficiently high to lead to apprehension from the
flames. But fire-balls were thrown from the heights into the deepest
hollows of the park, and the wretched fugitives were forced to
scatter, finding their way to other places of retreat, and finding none
of them secure.
One of these mournful processions of fugitives was that of the
sisterhood of the Convent, the nuns and their pupils. Beguiled to
the last moment by the promises and assurances of officers and
others in Sherman's army, the Mother Superior had clung to her
house to the last possible moment. It was not merely a home, but
in some degree a temple, and, to the professors of one church at
least, a shrine. It had been chosen, as we have seen, as the place of
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refuge for many of other churches. Much treasure had been lodged
in it for safe keeping, and the Convent had a considerable treasure
of its own. It was liberally and largely furnished, not only as a
domain, but as an academy of the highest standard. It was com-
plete in all the agencies and material for such an academy, and for
the accommodation of perhaps two hundred pupils. Among these
agencies for education were no less than seventeen pianos. The
harp, the guitar, the globe, the maps, desks, benches, bedding and
clothing, were all supplied on a scale of equal amplitude. The estab-
lishment also possessed some fine pictures, original and from the first
masters. The removal of these was impossible, and hence the re-
luctance of the Mother Superior to leave her house was sufficiently
natural. Assured, besides, of safety, she remained until further
delay would have perilled the safety of her innocent and numerous
flock. This lady marshalled her procession with great good sense,
coolness and decision. They were instructed to secure the clothes
most suitable to their protection from the weather, and to take with
them those valuables which were portable ; and, accompanied by
Rev. Dr. O'Connell and others, the damsels filed on, under the lead
of their Superior, through long tracts of fire, burning roofs, tum-
bling walls, wading through billows of flame, and taking, at first, the
pathway to St. Peter's (Catholic) Church. Blinding fires left them
almost aimless in their march ; but they succeeded in reaching the
desired point in safety. Here, on strips of bedding, quilts and cover-
lets, the young girls found repose, protected by the vigilance of a
few gentlemen, their priest, and, we believe, by two officers of the
Yankee army, whose names are given as Colonel Corley and Dr.
Galaghan. To these gentlemen, both Catholic Irish, the Mother
Superior acknowledges her great indebtedness. They had need of
all the watch and vigilance of these persons. It was soon found
that several soldiers followed them in their flight, and were making
attempts to fire the edifice on several sides. These attempts, repeat-
edly baffled and as often renewed, showed at length so tenacious a
purpose for its destruction, that it was thought best to leave the
building and seek refuge in the church-yard, and there, in the cold
and chill, and among the grave-stones with the dead, these terrified
living ones remained, trembling watchers through the rest of this
dreary night. The Presbyterian grave-yard had a number of fami-
lies quartered in it for several days after the destruction of the city.
Aged ladies and young children were also exposed in open lots until
after the Federals left the city.
The destruction of private libraries and valuable collections of
182 MEMORABILIA AND
objects of art and virtu, was very large in Columbia. It was by the
urgent entreaties of the Rev. Mr. Porter, the professors and others,
that the safety of the South Carolina College library was assured.
The buildings were occupied by Confederate hospitals, where some
three hundred invalids and convalescents found harborage. In a
conversation with the Rev. Mr. Porter, regarding the safety of the
College Library, General Sherman indulged in a sneer. "I would
rather," said he, "give you books than destroy them. I am sure your
people need them very much." To this Mr. Porter made no reply,
suffering the General to rave for awhile upon a favorable text with
him, the glories of his flag and the perpetuation of the Union, which
he solemnly pledged himself to maintain against all the fates. That
his own people did not value books, in any proper degree, may be
shown by their invariable treatment of libraries. These were almost
universally destroyed, tumbled into the weather, the streets, gutters,
hacked and hewn and trampled, even when the collections were of
the rarest value and immense numbers. Libraries of ten thousand
volumes — books such as cannot again be procured — were sacrificed.
It was one almost invariable feature of the numerous melancholy
processions of fugitive women and children and old men escaping
from their burning houses, to be escorted by Federal officers or sol-
diers — as frequently by the one as by the other — who sometimes
pretended civility, and mixed it up with jeering or offensive remarks
upon their situation. These civilities had an ulterior object. To
accept them, under the notion that they were tendered in good faith,
was to be robbed or insulted. The young girl carrying work-box or
bundle, who could be persuaded to trust it to the charge of one of
the men, very often lost possession of it wholly. "That trunk is
small, but it seems heavy," quoth one to a young lady, who, in the
procession of the nuns, was carrying off her mother's silver.
"What's in it, I wonder? Let me carry it." "No, thank you. My
object is to save it, if I can." "Well, I'll save it for you; let me
help you." "No ; I need no help of yours, and wish you to under-
stand that I mean to save it, if I can." "You are too proud, miss !
but we'll humble you yet. You have been living in clover all your
life — we'll bring you down to the wash-tub. Those white hands
shall be done brown in the sun before we're done with you." Officers,
even ranking as high as colonels, were found as active in the work of
insults and plunder as any of their common men. One of these
colonels came into the presence of a young girl, a pupil at the Con-
vent, and the daughter of a distinguished public man. He wore in
his hat her riding plume, attached by a small golden ornament, and
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 183
in his hands he carried her riding whip. She calmly addressed him
thus : "I have been robbed, sir, of every article of clothing and orna-
ments ; even the dress I wear is borrowed. I am resigned to their
loss. But there are some things that I would not willingly lose.
You have in your cap the plume from my riding hat — you carry in
your hand my riding whip. They were gifts to me from a precious
friend. I demand them from you." "Oh ! these cannot be yours — I
have had them a long time." "You never had them before last
night. It was then I lost them. They are mine, and the gold orna-
ment of the feather engraved with the initials of the giver. Once
more I demand them of you." "Well, I'm willing to give them to
you, if you'll accept them as a keep-sake." "No, sir ; I wish no keep-
sake of vour's ; I shall have sufficiently painful memories to remind
me of those whom I could never willingly see again — whom I have
never wished to see." "Oh ! I rather guess you're right there," with
a grin. "Will you restore me my whip and feather?" "As a keep-
sake! Yes." "No, sir; as my property — which you can only wear
as stolen property." "I tell you, if you'll take them as a keep-sake
from me, you shall have them." "You must then keep them, sir —
happy, perhaps, that you cannot blush whenever you sport the plume
or flourish the whip." And he bore off the treasures of the damsel.
In these connections, oaths of the most blasphemous kind were rarely
foreborne, even when their talk was had with females. The troops
had a large faith in Sherman's generalship. One of their lieuten-
ants is reported to have said : "He's all hell at flanking. He'd flank
God Almighty out of Heaven and the devil into hell."
But this is enough on this topic, and we must plead the exactions
of truth and the necessities of historical evidence, to justify us in
repeating and recording such monstrous blasphemies. We shall
hereafter, from other hands, be able to report some additional dia-
logues held with the women of Columbia, by some of the Federal
officers. Of their temper, one or two more brief anecdotes will suf-
fice. The Convent, among its other possessions, had a very beauti-
ful model of the Cathedral, of Charleston. This occupied a place in
the Convent grounds. It was believed to have been destroyed by the
soldiers. One of the nuns lamented its fate to the Mother Superior,
in the presence of Colonel Ewell, ( ?) an aide of one of the generals.
He muttered bitterly, "Yes ; it is rightly served ; and I could wish the
same fate to befall every cathedral in which Te Denni has been per-
formed at the downfall of our glorious flag." A gentleman was ex-
pressing to one of the Federal generals the fate of the Convent, and
speaking of the losses, especially of the Lady Superior, he replied
184 MEMORABILIA AND
dryly: "It is not forgotten that this lady is the sister of Bishop
Lynch, who had Te Dcum performed in his cathedral at the fall of
Fort Sumter."
A lady of this city spoke indignantly to General Atkins, of Sher-
man's army, and said of that general, "He wars upon women!"
"Yes," said Atkins, "and justly. It is the women of the South who
keep up this cursed rebellion. It gave us the greatest satisfaction to
see those proud Georgia women begging crumbs from Yankee leav-
ings ; and this will soon be the fate of all you Carolina women."
Escorting a sad procession of fugitives from the burning dwellings,
one of the soldiers said: "What a glorious sight!" "Terribly so,"
said one of the ladies. "Grand !" said he. "Very pitiful," was the
reply. The lady added: "How, as men, you can behold the horrors
of this scene, and behold the sufferings of these innocents, without
terrible pangs of self-condemnation and self-loathing, it is difficult to
conceive." "We glory in it !" was the answer. "I tell you, madam,
that when the people of the North hear of the vengeance we have
meted out to your city, there will be one universal shout of rejoicing
from man, woman and child, from Maine to Maryland." "You are,
then, sir, only a fitting representative of your people." Another,
who had forced himself as an escort upon a party, on the morning of
Saturday, said, pointing to the thousand stacks of chimneys, "You
are a curious people here in house-building. You run np your
chimneys before you build the house." One who had been similarly
impudent, said to a mother, who was bearing a child in her arms :
"Let me carry the baby, madam." "Do not touch him for your life,"
was the reply. "I would sooner hurl him into the flames and plunge
in after him than that he should be polluted by your touch. Nor
shall a child of mine ever have even the show of obligation to a
Yankee !" "Well, that's going it strong, by ; but I like your
pluck. We like it d — e ; and you'll see us coming back after the war
— every man of us — to get a Carolina wife. We hate your men like
h — 1, but we love your women !" "We much prefer your hate, even
though it comes in fire. Will you leave us, sir?" It was not always,
however, that our women were able to preserve their coolness and
firmness under the assaults. We have quite an amusing story of a
luckless wife, who was confronted by a stalwart soldier, with a
cocked revolver at her head. "Your watch!. your money! you d — d
rebel b — h !" The oaths, sudden demand, fierce look and rapid action,
so terrified her that she cried out, "Oh ! my G — d ! I have no watch,
no money, except what's tied round my waist !" We need not say
how deftly the Bowie-knife was applied to loose the stays of the
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 185
lady. She was then taught, for the first time in her life, that the
stays were wrongly placed. They should have been upon her
tongue. In all their conversation, the officers exhibited a very bom-
bastic manner, and their exaggerations of their strength and per-
formances great and frequent. On their first arrival they claimed
generally to have sixty thousand men ; in a few hours after, the num-
ber was swollen to seventy-five thousand ; by night, it had reached
one hundred thousand ; and on Saturday, the day after, they claimed
to have one hundred and twenty-five thousand. We have already
estimated the real number at forty thousand — total cavalry, infantry.
and artillery.
We have already passingly adverted to the difficulty of saving the
South Carolina College library from the flames, and lest we should
have conveyed a false impression in respect to the degree of effort
made in saving it, we give some particulars which may be found of
interest. We need scarcely say that the professors clung to their
sacred charge with a tenacity which never once abandoned it or fore-
bore the exertions necessary for its safety ; while the officers of the
several hospitals, to which the College buildings were generally
given up, were equally prompt to give their co-operation. Very
soon after the entrance of the Federals into the city, Dr. Thompson,
of the hospital, with Professors LaBorde, Reynolds and Rivers, took
their places at the gate of the College Campus, and awaited their
approach. Towards noon, a body of soldiers, led by a Captain
Young, made their appearance at the gate, and the surgeon, with the
professors, made a special appeal to the captain for the protection
of the library and the College buildings ; to which he replied with a
solemn assurance that the place should be spared, and that he would
station a sufficient guard within and without the walls. He re-
marked, with some surprise, upon the great size of the enclosure
and establishment. The guard was placed, and no serious occasion
for alarm was experienced throughout the day ; but, from an early
hour of the night, the buildings began to be endangered by showers
of sparks from contiguous houses, which fell upon their roofs. This
danger increased hour by hour, as the flames continued to advance,
and finally, the roofs of the several dwellings of Professors LaBorde
and Rivers burst out in flames. Their families were forced to fly,
and it required all the efforts of professors, surgeons, servants, even
aided by a file of soldiers, to arrest the conflagration. Every build-
ing within the campus was thus in danger. The destruction of any
one building would to a certainty have led to the loss of all. The
most painful apprehensions were quickened into a sense of horror,
186 ' MEMORABILIA AND
when the feeble inmates of the hospital were remembered. There
were numbers of noble soldiers, brave Kentuckians and others, des-
perately wounded, to whom — lacking, as the establishment did at
that moment, the necessary labor — but little assistance could be
rendered. They were required to shift for themselves, while the few
able-bodied men within the campus were on the house-tops fighting
the fire. The poor fellows were to be seen dragging their maimed
and feeble bodies, as best they could, along the floors, adown the
stairs, and crawling out, with great pain and labor, and by the tardi-
est process, into that atmosphere of reeking flame, which now girdled
the establishment. Others, again, unable to leave their beds, re-
signed themselves to their fate. We can better conceive than de-
scribe the terrible agonies, to them, of those hours of dreadful anti-
cipation in which they lay. Happily, the fires were subdued by 4
in the morning of Saturday. But the danger, even then, was not
over. About 8 A. M., the College gate was assaulted by a band of
drunken cavalry, one hundred and fifty or more, bent upon penetrat-
ing the campus, and swearing to fire the buildings. The officer in
command of the guard reported to the professors that his force was
not adequate to the protection of the establishment, and that he was
about to be overwhelmed. Professors LaBorde and Rivers, fol-
lowed by Surgeon Thompson, at once sped, in all haste, to the head-
quarters of General Howard, appealing to him, in the most passion-
ate terms, to redeem his pledge for the protection of the College and
its library. He promptly commanded his Chief of Staff, Colonel
Stone, to repair to the scene and arrest the danger. This — revolver
in hand — he promptly did, and succeeded in dispersing the incen-
diary cavalry. It is with profound regret that we add that the Leg-
islative library, consisting of twenty-five thousand choice volumes,
was wholly destroyed in the old Capitol.
Among the moral and charitable institutions which suffered
greatly in the fire, were the several Masonic bodies. They lost
everything, with rare exceptions — houses, lodges, regalias, charts,
charters, jewels, and every form of implement and paraphernalia.
Much of this property had been accumulated in Columbia from
Charleston and other places — had been sent hither for safe keeping.
Their losses will for a long while be wholly irreparable, and cannot
be repaired, unless, indeed, through the liberality of remote and
wealthy fraternities in other sections. The furniture and jewels
were, in the largest number of cases, of the richest and most valuable
order, wholly of silver, and in great proportion were gifts and be-
quests of favorite brothers who had reached the highest ranks in the
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 187
order. The buildings, chambers, and lodges which contained the
treasures of these bodies, were first plundered and then given to the
flames. The soldiers were to be seen about the streets, dressed up
in the aprons, scarfs and regalias. Some of the Federal Masons
were active in endeavoring to arrest the robbers in their work, but
without success. In a conversation with one of the Western Ma-
sons, he responded to the signs and behaved courteously, but he said :
"We are told that all fraternization with your Masonic bodies of the
South has been cut off, in consequence of your Masons renouncing
all connection or tie between them and the Masons of the North."
We replied to him that the story was absurd, and evidently set afloat
in order to prevent the Northern Masons from affording succor to a
Southern brother in the hour of his distress — that Masonry overrides
the boundaries of States, allows of no political or religious differ-
ences, and that its very nature and constitution are adverse to the
idea of any such renunciations of the paramount duties of the craft,
in all countries and under all circumstances.
The morning of Saturday, the 18th of February, opened still with
its horrors and terrors, though somewhat diminished in their in-
tensity. A lady said to an officer at her house, somewhere about 4
o'clock that morning: "In the name of God, sir, when is this work of
hell to be ended?" He replied: "You will hear the bugles at sun-
rise, when a guard will enter the town and withdraw these troops.
It will then cease, and not before." Sure enough, with the bugle's
sound, and the entrance of fresh bodies of troops, there was an in-
stantaneous arrest of incendiarism. You could see the rioters carried
off in groups and squads, from the several precincts they had rav-
aged, and those which they still meditated to destroy. The tap of
the drum, the sound of the signal cannon, could not have been more
decisive in its effect, more prompt and complete. But two fires were
set, among private dwellings, after sunrise ; and the flames only went
up from a few places, where the fire had been last applied ; and these
were rapidly expiring.
The best and most beautiful portion of Columbia lay in ruins.
Never was ruin more complete ; and the sun rose with a wan coun-
tenance, peering dimly through the dense vapors which seemed
wholly to overspread the firmament. Very miserable was the spec-
tacle. On every side ruins, and smoking masses of blackened walls,
and towers of grim, ghastly chimneys, and between, in desolate
groups, reclining on mattress, or bed, or earth, were wretched
women and children, gazing vacantly on the site of a once blessed
abode of home and innocence. Roving detachments of the soldiers
188 MEMORABILIA AND
passed around and among them. There were those who looked and
lingered nigh, with taunt and sarcasm. Others there were, in whom
humanity did not seem wholly extinguished ; and others again, to
their credit, be it said, who were truly sorrowful and sympathizing,
who had labored for the safety of family and property, and who
openly deplored the dreadful crime, which threatened the lives and
honors of the one, and destroyed so completely the other.
But we have no time for description. The relentless fate was
hurrying forward, and the destroyer had still as large a share of his
assigned labors to execute. This day was devoted to the destruction
of those buildings of a public character which had escaped the wreck
of the city proper.
The Saluda cotton manufactory, the property of Colonel L. D.
Childs, was burned by the troops prior to their entry of the city and
on their approach to it, the previous day. The several powder mills
were destroyed on Saturday. The Arsenal buildings (State and
Confederate) on Sunday, and it is understood that in the attempt to
haul away ammunition from the latter place, the Federals lost a
large number of men, from an unlooked-for explosion. It is re-
ported in one case that no less than forty men, with their officers —
one entire company — were blown to pieces in one precinct, and half
as many in another. But the facts can never be precisely ascer-
tained. The body of a Federal captain lay on the banks of the river
for several days. So, the fearful progress of incendiarism continued
throughout Saturday and Sunday, nor did it wholly cease on Mon-
day. The gas works — one of the greatest necessities of the people —
was then deliberately destroyed ; and it was with some difficulty that
the water works were saved. The cotton card manufactory of the
State; the sword factory — a private interest; the stocking manufac-
tory — private ; the buildings at Fair Grounds, adjoining cemetery ;
the several railway depots ; Alexander's foundry ; the South Carolina
Railroad foundry and work shops ; the Government armory, and
other buildings of greater or less value, partly Government and
partly private property — all shared a common fate.
Major Niernsee, the State Architect, was a great loser, in his im-
plements and valuable scientific and professional library.
The new Capitol building, being unfinished, and not likely to be
finished in many years — useless, accordingly to us — was spared —
only suffering from some petty assaults of malice. Here and there,
a plinth fractured ; here and there a Corinthian capital. The beauti-
ful pillar of Tennessee marble was thus injured. So, at great pains-
taking, the soldiers clambered up on ladders to reach and efface the
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 189
exquisite scroll and ornamental work on the face of the building —
disfiguring the beautiful chiseling which had wrought out the vine
and acorn tracery on the several panels ; and the bundles of fasces,
on the northern part, were fractured or broken away in parts. The
statue of Washington, in bronze, cast in 1858, for the city of Charles-
ton, from Houdon's original, in the rotunda at Richmond, received
several bruises from brickbats, addressed to face and breast. A
shell scratched his back, and the staff which he bore in his hand was
broken off in the middle. But the bronze seems to have defied de-
struction and may be considered still perfect. The bust of Calhoun,
by Powers, was totally destroyed ; so, also, was the ideal personifica-
tion, by the sculptor Brown, of the Genius of Liberty. A large col-
lection of complete capitals, destined for the Capitol, and lying in the
open square, were destroyed either by the heat of the contiguous
fire, or by explosions of gun-powder introduced among them. The
new State Capitol presented a very conspicuous mark to the cannon
on Lexington heights, yet fortunately sustained but little injury —
none, indeed, which cannot be easily repaired. Five shots struck in
the west end, yet none of them did any serious damage, except one.
This shattered the ornamented sill and balusters of one of the corri-
dors of the principal floor. Another shell injured a fluted column
on the centre projection. Two shots hit the interior of the brick
arch over the eastern front centre window, and two other shots
struck and slightly scaled off the granite jamb division of the treble
center window in the eastern front. When in possession, the soldiers
tried to deface and defile as much as they could. They wrote their
names in pencil on the marble, giving their companies and regiments,
and sometimes coupling appropriately foul comments with their sig-
natures, thus addressed to posterity.
Something should be said in respect to the manner in which the
negroes were treated by the Federals while in Columbia, and as re-
gards the influences employed by which to beguile or take them from
their owners. We have already adverted to the fact that there was
a vast difference between the feelings and performances of the men
from the West, and those coming, or directly emanating, from the
Eastern States. The former were adverse to a connection with
them ; but few negroes were to be seen among these, and they were
simply used as drudges, grooming horses, bearing burdens, humble
of demeanor and rewarded with kicks, cuffs and curses, frequently
without provocation. They despised and disliked the negro ; openly
professed their, scorn or hatred, declared their unwillingness to have
them as companions in arms or in company at all. Several instances
190 MEMORABILIA AND
have been given us of their modes of repelling the association of the
negro, usually with blow of the fist, butt of the musket, slash of the
sword or prick of the bayonet. Sherman himself looked on these
things indifferently, if we are to reason from a single fact afforded
us by Mayor Goodwyn. This gentleman, while walking with the
General, heard the report of a gun. Both heard it, and immediately
proceeded to the spot. There they found a group of soldiers, with a
stalwart young negro fellow lying dead before them on the street,
the body yet warm and bleeding. Pushing it with his feet, Sherman
said, in his quick, hasty manner: "What does this mean, boys?"
The reply was sufficiently cool and careless. "The d — d black rascal
gave us his impudence, and we shot him." "Well, bury him at once !
Get him out of sight!" As they passed on, one of the party re-
marked: "Is that the way, General, you treat such a case?" "Oh!"
said he, "we have no time now for courts martial and things of that
sort !"
A lady showed us a coverlet, with huge holes burned in it, which
she said had covered a sleeping negro woman, when the Yankees
threw their torches into her bed, from which she was narrowly ex-
tricated with life. Of the recklessness of these soldiers, especially
when sharpened by cupidity, an instance is given where they thrust
their bayonets into a bed, where they fancied money to be hidden,
between two sleeping children — being, it is admitted, somewhat care-
ful not to strike through the bodies of the children. The treatment
of the negroes in their houses was, in the larger proportion of cases,
quite as harsh as that which was shown to the whites. . They were
robbed in like manner, frequently stripped of every article of cloth-
ing and provisions, and where the wigwam was not destroyed, it was
effectually gutted. Few negroes having a good hat, good pair of
shoes, good overcoat, but were incontinently deprived of them, and
roughly handled when they remonstrated. These acts, we believe,
were mostly ascribed to Western men. They were repeatedly heard
to say : "We are Western men, and don't want your d — d black faces
among us." When addressing the negro, they frequently charged
him with being the cause of the war. In speaking to the whites on
this subject, especially to South Carolinians, the cause was ascribed
to them. In more than one instance, we were told : "We are going
to burn this d — d town. We've begun, and we'll go through. This
thing began here, and we'll sack the houses and burn the town." A
different role was assigned to, or self-assumed by, the Eastern men.
They hob-a-nobbed with the negro, walked with him, and smoked
and joked with him. Filled his ears with all sorts of blarney ; lured
ANECDOTAL, REMINISCENCES. 191
him, not only with hopes of freedom, but all manner of license. They
hovered about the premises of the citizens, seeking all occasion to
converse with the negroes. They would elude the guards, slip into
the kitchen, if the gates were open, or climb over the rear fence and
converse with all who would listen. No doubt they succeeded in be-
guiling many, since nothing is more easy than to seduce, with prom-
ises of prosperity, ease and influence, the laboring classes of any
people, white or black. To teach them that they are badly governed
and suffering wrong, is the favorite method of demagogism in all
countries, and is that sort of influence which will always prevail with
a people at once vain, sensual and ignorant. But, as far as we have
been able to see and learn, a large proportion of the negroes were
carried away forcibly. When the beguiler failed to seduce, he re-
sorted to violence. The soldiers, in several cases which have been
reported to us, pursued the slaves with the tenacity of blood-hounds ;
were at their elbows when they went forth, and hunted them up, at
all hours, on the premises of the owner. Very frequent are the
instances where the negro, thus hotly pursued, besought protection
of his master or mistress, sometimes voluntarily seeking a hiding
place along the swamps of the river ; at other times, finding it under
the bed of the owner ; and not leaving these places of refuge till long
after the troops had departed. For fully a month after they had
gone, the negroes, singly or in squads, were daily making their way
back to Columbia, having escaped from the Federals by dint of great
perseverance and cunning, generally in wretched plight, half-starved
and with little clothing. They represented the difficulties in the way
of their escape to be very great, the officers placing them finally
under guards at night, and that they could only succeed in flight at
the peril of life or limb. Many of these were negroes of Columbia,
but the larger proportion seemed to hail from Barnwell. They all
sought passports to return to their owners and plantations.
We should not overlook the ravage and destruction in the immedi-
ate precincts of the city, though beyond its corporate boundaries.
Within a few miles of Columbia, from two to five miles, it was gir-
dled by beautiful country seats, such as those of the Hampton family
— Millwood — a place famous of yore for its charm and elegance of
society, its frank hospitality and the lavish bounty of its successive
hosts. The destruction of this family seat of opulence, and grace,
and hospitality, will occasion sensation in European countries, no
less than in our own, among those who have enjoyed its grateful
privileges, as guests, in better days. The beautiful country seats of
Mr. Secretary Trenholm, of Dr. John Wallace, Mrs. Thomas Stark,
192 MEMORABILIA AND
Colonel Thomas Taylor, Captain James U. Adams, Mr. C. P. Pel-
ham (Mill Creek), as well as homestead — and many more — all
shared the fate of Millwood — all were robbed and ruined, then given
to the flames ; and from these places were carried off all horses,
mules, cattle, hogs and stock of every sort ; and the provisions not
carried off, were destroyed. In many cases, where mules and horses
were not choice, they were shot down. But this was the common
history. On all the farms and plantations, and along the road sides
everywhere, for many a mile, horses, mules and cattle, strew the face
of the country. Young colts, however fine the stock, had their
throats cut. One informant tells us that in one pile he counted forty
slain mules on the banks of the Saluda. Every vehicle which could
not be carried away was destroyed. But there were barbarities re-
ported in the more isolated farm settlements and country houses.
Horrid narratives of rape are given which we dare not attempt to
individualize. Individuals suspected of having concealed large sums
of money, were hung up repeatedly, until, almost in the agonies of
death and to escape the torture, they confessed where the deposit had
been made. A German baker had a rope put round his neck, and
was hauled up several times ; until, through fear of death, he con-
fessed that he had specie around his person and in a trunk. A
family of the name of Fox, of Lexington, were treated with especial
cruelty. The head of the family was hung up thrice by the neck till
nearly dead, when he yielded nine thousand dollars in specie. Mr.
Meetze, of the same District, is reported to have been robbed in like
manner and by the same process ; and one poor idiot — a crazy crea-
ture, mistaken for another party — was subjected, till nearly dead, to
the same treatment. This mode of torture, from what we can learn,
was frequently resorted to. Other parties were whipped ; others
buffeted or knocked down, and, indeed, every form of brutality
seems to have been put in practice, whenever cupidity was sharpened
into rage by denial or disappointment. But we sicken at the farther
recital of these cruelties.
conclusion.
The reader will have seen that we have brought to a close our
narrative of the most conspicuous events, in the "capture, sack, and
burning of the city of Columbia." We have been at great pains to
make the statements ample, and to justify them by reference to the
best authorities and witnesses to be found. We believe that the
facts are substantially complete, and so, true in all respects. The
incidents given are selected as typical of large groups of facts, rep-
resentative anecdotes, uniform in their variety, and quite too numer-
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 193
oils for separate consideration. But the very uniformity, amidst
such a numerous collection, is in confirmation of the general au-
thenticity of the whole; and we repeat the conviction that the
narrative is wholly true withal, and to be relied on as a history. We
have seen, with surprise, some attempts, in sundry quarters, to ac-
count for the destruction of Columbia by ascribing it to accident, to
the drunkenness of straggling parties, to our negroes, and, indeed,
to any but the proper cause. It is evidently the design of these
writers, without inquiring into the motives by which they were gov-
erned, to relieve General Sherman and his army from the imputa-
tion. If it could be shown that one-half of the army were not
actually engaged in firing the houses in twenty places at once, while
the other half were not quiet spectators, indifferently looking on,
there might be some shrewdness in this suggestion. If it could be
shown that the whiskey found its way out of stores and cellars,
grappled with the soldiers and poured itself down their throats, then
they are relieved of the responsibility. If it can be proved that the
negroes were not terrified by the presence of these soldiers, in such
large numbers, and did not (as they almost invariably did) on the
night of the fire, skulk away into their cabins, lying low, and keeping
as dark as possible, we might listen to this suggestion, and perhaps
admit its plausibility. But why did the soldiers prevent the firemen
from extinguishing the fire as they strove to do ? Why did they cut
the hose as soon as it was brought into the streets? Why did they
not assist in extinguishing the flames ? Why, with twenty thousand
men encamped in the streets, did they suffer the stragglers to suc-
ceed in a work of such extent? Why did they suffer the men to
break into the stores and drink the liquor wherever it was found?
And what shall we say to the universal plundering, which was a
part of the object attained through the means of fire? Why, above
all, did they, with their guards massed at every corner, suffer the
negroes to do this work ? These questions answered, it will be seen
that all these suggestions are sheer nonsense. To give them plausi-
bility, we have been told, among other mis-statements, that General
Sherman himself was burned out of his own selected quarters, no
less than four times. This is simply ridiculous. He was burned
out in no single instance. None of his generals was burned out.
The houses chosen for their abodes, were carefully selected, and the
fire was kept from approaching them in any single instance. But
we have pursued our narrative very imperfectly, if our array of
facts be not such as conclusively to show that the destruction of the
city was a deliberately designed thing, inflexibly fixed from the be-
13— m
194 MEMORABILIA AND
ginning, and its fate sufficiently well known to be conceived and
comprehended by all the army.
Long before the army left Savannah, a lady inquired of one of the
Federal Generals in that city, whither she should retire — mentioning
her preference of Columbia. His reply was significant. "Go any-
where but to Columbia." We have stated the conference between
the Lady Superior of the Ursuline Convent and a certain Major of
the Federals, who originally belonged to the press gang of Detroit.
He warned her at 11 o'clock of Friday, "that she would need all the
guard he had brought, as Columbia ivas a doomed city." A lady in
one of our upper Districts, expressing surprise at the treatment of
Columbia in this nineteenth, or boasted century of civilization, was
answered: "South Carolina has been long since the promised boon
of Sherman's army." Masonic brethren told others in the city that
an order had been issued to the troops before they crossed the river,
giving them license to sack, plunder and destroy for the space of
thirty-six hours, and that Columbia was destined to destruction. A
sick Federal soldier, who had been fed, nursed and kindly treated by
a city lady, told her, on Friday morning, that the place would be
destroyed that night. The simultaneous breaking out of the fires,
in the heart of the city, and in the suburbs in twenty places besides,
should conclude all doubt.
1. Enough that Sherman's army was under perfect discipline.
They were, as an army, completely in the hands of the officers.
Never was discipline more complete — never authority more abso-
lute.
2. That the fire was permitted, whether set by drunken stragglers
or negroes, to go on, and Sherman's soldiers prevented, by their
active opposition, efforts of the firemen, while thousands looked on
in perfect serenity, seeming totally indifferent to the event.
3. That soldiers, quite sober, were seen in hundreds of cases busily
engaged in setting fire, well provided with all the implements and
agencies.
4. That they treated with violence the citizens who strove to arrest
the flames.
5. That when entreated and exhorted by citizens to arrest the
incendiaries and prevent the catastrophe, at the very outset, the offi-
cers, in many cases, treated the applicants cavalierly, and gave no
heed to their application.
6. That, during the raging of the flames, the act was justified by a
reference to the course of South Carolina in originating the seces-
sion movement.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 195
7. That the general officers themselves held aloof until near the
close of the scene and of the night. That General Sherman knew
what was going on, yet kept aloof and made no effort to arrest it,
until daylight on Saturday, ought, of itself, to be conclusive.
8. That, with his army under such admirable discipline, he could
have arrested it at any moment ; and that he did arrest it, when it
pleased him to do so, even at the raising of a finger, at the tap of a
drum, at the blast of a single trumpet.
But, what need of these and a thousand other suggestive reasons,
to establish a charge which might be assumed from a survey of
Sherman's general progress, from the moment when he entered
South Carolina? The march of his army was a continued flame —
the tread of his horse was devastation. On what plea was the pic-
turesque village of Barnwell destroyed? We had no army there
for its defence ; no issue of strength in its neighborhood had excited
the passions of the combatants. Yet it was plundered — every house
— and nearly all burned to the ground ; and this, too, where the town
was occupied by women and children only. So, too, the fate of
Blackville, Graham, Bamberg, Buford's Bridge, Lexington, &c, all
hamlets of most modest character, where no resistance was offered —
where no fighting took place — where there was no provocation of
liquor even, and where the only exercise of heroism was at the ex-
pense of women, infancy and feebleness. Such, too, was the fate
of every farm-house — of six in seven, at least. Surely, when such
was the fate and treatment in all cases, there need be no effort now
to show that an exception was to be made in favor of the State
capital, where the offences charged upon South Carolina had been
necessarily of the rankest character ; and, when they had passed
Columbia — greatly bemoaning the cruel fate which, under stragglers
and whiskey-drinkers and negroes, had brought her to ruin — what
were the offences of the villages of Allston, Pomaria, Winnsboro,
Blackstock, Society Hill, and the towns of Camden and Cheraw?
Thus weeping over the cruelty which so unhappily destroyed Colum-
bia, was it that she should enjoy fellowship in woe and ashes, that
they gave all these towns and villages to the flames, and laid waste
all the plantations and farms between? But enough. If the con-
science of any man be sufficiently flexible on this subject to coerce
his understanding even into a momentary doubt, all argument will
be wasted on him.
Our task has ended. Our narrative is drawn by an eye-witness
of much of this terrible drama, and of many of the scenes which it
196 MEMORABILIA AND
includes, but the chief part has been drawn from the living mouths
of a cloud of witnesses, male and female, the best people in Columbia.
The burnt district extended from Cotton Town to Pendleton street,
north and south, and from Main to Bull, three streets, east and west.
With the exception of three small dwellings, Main street was wiped
out for twelve blocks.
Names of Owners of Buildings Destroyed.
Main Street — Wra. Price, W. McAlister, R. Keenan, Jr., James
Cathcart, R. O'Neale, P. P. Chambers, Mrs. J. J. Kinsler, Mrs. Law,
James Crawford, James R. Kennedy, Lysander D. Childs, Mrs.
Kirk, Estate James Kennedy, P. H. Flanigan, G. B. Nunamaker, A.
Crawford, Kraft, Goldsmith & Kraft, Henry Hunt, Mrs. P. Patter-
son, St. Mary's College, R. Lewis, Wm. Lyles, Wm. Hennies, H.
Hess, Grieshaber & Wolfe, Dr. T. J. Roach, M. McElrone, John
Judge & Co., A. Riley, W. McGuinnis, Estate John Beard, Mrs. J.
Blankenstein, M. O'Connell, A. J. Barnes, W. W. Purse, R. Lewis,
Bishop Lynch, John McCully, H. C. Franck, Keatinge & Ball, Estate
C. Beck, Dr. F. Marks, Estate John J. Kinsler, D. Jacobs, M. Comer-
' ford, Boyne & Sprowl, James Brown, Thos. Boyne, C. Norman, E.
Stenhouse, E. Hope, E. & G. D. Hope, R. Bryce, M. Ehrlich, John
C. Seegers, Bruns & Eilhardt, John Rawls, W. T. Walter, Bishop
Lynch, S. Pearse, H. N. McGowan, Fisher & Heinitsh, S. Gardner,
Commercial Bank, Thomas Davis, Henry Davis, R. C. Anderson,
Southern Express Co., Isaac Cohen, G. V. Antwerp, Charles Beck,
Dr. M. M. Sams, Dr. C. Wells, C. A. Bedell, J. C. Walker, W. B.
Stanley, Bank of the State, Independent Fire Co., City of Columbia,
Dr. R. W. Gibbes and J. S. Guignard, Com. Public Buildings, R.
Mayrant, J. Stork, O. Z. Bates, C. Volger, J. C. Janney, Janney &
Leaphart, Estate J. S. Boatwright, L. Carr, Dr. M. LaBorde, G. S.
Bower, W. &. J. Shiell, Mrs. E. Bailey, James Hayes, James Mc-
Kenna, Jacob Lyons, T. S. Nickerson, H. C. Franck, Estate of R.
Russell, Estate B. Reilly, Old Capitol and buildings, Mrs. E. J.
Huntt, A. Palmer, Joseph Green (colored), Mrs. B. Roberts.
Sumter— W. McAlister, Mrs. Beebe, R. Wearn, M. A. Shelton,
P. M. Johnson, J. Oliver, Mrs. E. Law, P. G. McGregor, P. L.
Valory, J. F. Eisenman, Estate C. Beck, B. Bailey, C. A. Barnes,
Presbyterian Lecture Room, A. J. Green, Mrs. J. Bryce, Mrs. S.
Murphy, Dr. R. W. Gibbes, Jr., Old Baptist Church, Mrs. J. Friede-
burg, S. Waddell, G. S. Bower, W. F. DeSaussure, A. C. Squier,
Estate J. S. Boatwright, J. H. Stelling, Mrs. C. Neuffer, F. W.
Green, W. B. Broom.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES. 197
Gervais — C. C. McPhail, Evans & Cogswell, Greenville Railroad,
South Carolina Railroad, Blakely, Williams & Co., Estate Thos.
Frean, James Claffey, Estate B. Reilly, R. O'Neale, Mrs. A. Haight,
Sarah Calhoun, J. Taylor. Mrs. E. Glaze, D. Hane, T. S. Nickerson,
T. J. Goodwyn, F. W. Green, J. S. Guignard, Trinity Church Lec-
ture Room, Mrs. B. E. Levy, Mrs. Bailey.
Other Streets — Wm. Elkins. H. Hess, Jas. Kenneth, Mrs. S. C.
Rhett, J. C. Walker, Estate J. D. Kinman, Synagogue, J. T. Zealy,
John Stork, J. P. Southern, J. C. Janney, J. H. Baldwin, H. E. & H.
C. Nichols, Estate C. Beck, Dr. R. H. Edmonds, S. S. McCully, Es-
tate E. B. Hort, Mrs. Holmes, Mrs. Quigley, Thos. Davis, Benj.
Evans, Jacob Bell, Estate C. Beck, N. Ramsay, G. W. Wright, R.
Lewis, Keatinge & Ball, Glaze & Shields, R. Bryce, M. Comerford,
Palmetto Engine Co., Mrs. Ann Marshall, B. Mordecai, Dr. A. J.
Green, Mrs. Z. P. Herndon, Mrs. John Bryce, C. A. Bedell, E. H.
Heinitsh, Jas. L. Clark, T. B. Clarkson, Christ Church, Mrs. K.
Brevard, C. R. Bryce, Estate C. Beck, Mrs. H. English, Charlotte
Railroad, E. J. Arthur. W. Van Wart, J. L. Beard, Estate C. Beck,
B. J. Knight, Miss C. Daniels, Estate Mrs. Logan, Mrs. Fowle,
Samuel Waddell, Mrs. O. M. Roberts. Estate B. Reilly, Mrs. J.
Rawls, M. Lilienthal, S. Beard, Benj. Rawls, Mrs. P. B. Smith, Wm.
Walter, J. H. Carlisle, W. W. Walker, A. G. Goodwin, John Rawls,
Wm. H. Dial, John Veal, W. B. Stanley, S. Gardner, H. Henrichson,
A. R. Phillips, Commercial Bank, John H. Heise, Jas. K. Friday, Dr.
J. McF. Gaston L. W. Jennings, Rev. T. E. W'annamaker. Wm.
Hitchcock, Dr. D. H. Trezevant, Dr. R. W. Gibbes, Sr., Jas. G.
Gibbes, H. Muller, Dr. J. W. Powell, Gibbes & Guignard, Dr. S.
Fair, C. H. Wells, R. C. Anderson, J. B. Glass, C. A. Bedell, State
Agricultural Society, John McKay, W. Riley, W. Thackam, R.
Wearn, J. C. Seegers, Estate Miss Ward, Arsenal Academy, Mrs.
H. Gill, Wm. Fetner, John Judge, Lutheran Church, James Beard,
Thos. H. Wade, Government Powder Works, W. R. Huntt, Mrs. E.
J. Huntt, Trinity Parsonage, M. L. Brown, J. S. Guignard, Estate
I. D. Mordecai, Mrs. J. S. Boatwright, J. H. Stelling, John Shiell,
J. C. Janney, J. H. Baldwin. E. R. Stokes. Wm. H. Toy, M. Brennan.
Clarissa May (colored), C. H. Pritchard, Lecture Room Washington
Street Church, Andrew Crawford. J. C. Lyons, George Huggins, S
Muldrow, C. P. Pelham, D. P. Kelly, Methodist Parsonage, Church,
Mrs. G. M. Thompson. M. A. Shelton, Dr. A. N. Talley, R. L.
Bryan, Dr. J. H. Boatwright, Mrs. Kennerly, John Bauskett, Law
Range, Brennan & Carroll. J. G. Gibbes, J. D. Bateman. F. G. De
Fontaine & Co.. Tail. P. F. Frazee. R. Mayrant, G. G. Newton.
198 MEMORABILIA AND
WIND UP— EPILOGUE.
Shakespeare's "Seven 4.ges," from My Stand-point.
There is no doubt but that the inimitable William had studied
human nature thoroughly when he penned his immortal "Seven
Ages of Man." As for the infant, "mewling," etc., that's all right.
The "whining schoolboy" won't apply to me, because we had a
number of girls at our school, and they were an attraction. The
"lover" and his mistress' eyebrows, will pass lightly over, as I had
too many to attempt to write about them. The "soldier" won't fit,
but know how hot lead feels. The "judge" — well, I acted as judge
for a mule race once. But "The last scene of all, which ends this
strange eventful history" — sans eyes (have only one) ; sans teeth
(bought them from Dr. T. T. Moore) ; sans taste (don't fancy many
old favorite feeds and very little new suffices) ; sans everything —
really unnecessary to specify anything further. William surely was
a prophet and a seer. Directed that his body should be buried
thirty-five feet deep, so that grave-thieves could not get at it. And,
just to think, at this late date, scientists are anxious to disinter the
remains, so as to see the shape of the skull.
Last month was the sixty-first anniversary of my advent into a
printing office — August, 1844 — with Col. A. H. Pemberton, of the
South Carolinian, southwest corner Main and Taylor streets.
And now, kind reader, I've written out
The numerous affairs I know about —
Have even gone beyond my birth date,
Interesting matters to ventilate;
May be charged with exaggeration —
I vouch for my authors' reputation;
Could speak of Taylors, Mannings, others,
Trezevants, Singletons and Preston brothers,
Belonging to first families old,
Who inherited "nigs," and they brought gold;
This is no genealogic tree,
With attempts to trace back to Mother E.
Our city is growing, we well know.
But parties who helped to make it so,
Have been cut off by means unlawful
(Killer's conscience qualms known to be awful).
Houses go up in every direction —
Owners have the best of fire protection;
Sewerage and water A No. 1 —
Work partly finished, the rest begun;
Two parks for pleasant recreation —
Prettiest women in Unc. Sam's nation;
\V ith street car service unsurpassed —
Whoever wants more must be biased.
And this epilogue closes my say —
Wish you health and wealth many a long dav.
THE COMPILER.
ANECDOTAL REMINISCENCES.
INDEX.
199
Prologue— A Few Words of Explanation.
How the Idea of Publication Originated 3
Excellent Memory, Doubters Convinced
At Three to Four Years of Age 5
Happy Jack and Elizabeth 8
Stage Upset— His Stuttering Saved Hini 7
To Charleston by Stage and Railroad. . 6
The Old Columbia Theatre 9
A Valuable Slumber Robe 17
Actor at the Age of Ninety-six 10
An Old Land-mark Removed 12
An Unfortunate Manager 12
Bring Out your Darned Old Lion 18
Christ Between the Two Thieves 17
Didn't Approve of Such Tragedy 13
Excellent Driver, Policeman, Captain. . 15
Joe Jefferson's First Appearance Here. . 11
Murder will Out 14
No One Night Business in Old Times. . . 15
P. T. Barnum's '-Show Life 
