Digital Collections
Crenshaw Transcriptions: 1861 - 1863
A1
Newbys Bridge N.C. 8 mo 26 d '61
John B. Crenshaw
Dear Friend
I have been requested by some of our concerned friends, to address a few lines to thee, calling thy attention to a paragraph, quoted from the "Richmond Examiner" and to ask if thou can give us any information touching the truth of its statement. The extract is as follows, qd "The Lincoln forces, in their advances towards Manassas, obtained, as guides, a number of Quakers living in the neighborhood of Accotine Mills, about eight miles form Alexandria. One of these a man by the name of Stiles(?), a New Jersey Quaker, for the sum of three dollars a day, was engaged to pilot companies of pillagers to every house where plunder might be obtained." In these times of peril and sore trial we think our Society has burdens enough of its own to bear, without being charged with the errors of any other people. We do not believe, that any orthodix Friends, have been engaged as stated in the foregoing extract; but, in order to set the matter right with those in orthority, who may charge this upon us, we feel very anxious to know the facts in the case, and will be very much obliged to thee, if thou can and will give us any information concerning it. In case of a draft or the calling out of the Malitia in our State, Friends may have to suffer we know not how much, having failed as yet to procure any exemption in the Malitia-law. Thus far, within the verge(?) of Piney Woods Mo Meeting, we have remained unmolested, except being warned to attend musters, and fined for not doing it. I am not informed how friends have fared in othe parts of our State. We have felt much concern for friends, about Richmond and its vicinity, seeing the whole Malitia had been called out in that section of Virginia. Do those in orthority there show favor towards members of our Society, on account of our Christian testimonies so long borne against War?
Apart from desiring any information, which thou may be able to communicate touching the points I have named, it will be very pleasant to hear from a dear friend, who has a place of precious remembrance in the hearts of many friends and other people in this part of the land.*
It is a time of general health amongst us. Uncle David White is rather more unwell than usual, so that he has given up a prospect which he entertained until within a few days past, of attending our ensuing Qr(?) Meeting to be held at Rich Square. My father has had a tedious spell of Pneumonia this summer, but had recovered so as to be up about. Thy friends the Woods are well so far as I know. Sister Isabella Elliott has been ill with typhoid fever, but is now convalescent. My immediate family all pretty well.-
With a firm reliance upon him who is able to help in every needful time, would that we could all be found in the faithful discharge of our Christian duties, having the mind stayed on God, that it may be kept in perfect peace."
My wife, father, and mother desire to be kindly remembered to thee. Direct to Belvidere, Perquimans Co. our post office having been thus changed in name, Hoping this may find thee and thine in safety and in health, I remain thy friend
Joseph R. Parker
The extract above, from the "Richmond Examiner[,]" I saw in our, "State Journal," the date to the Extract not given. R.P.
A2
4 mo 19th 62Dear Friend Jno B. Crenshaw
Thy letter came duley to hand & I have been waiting to find out what the situation of our friends was, or(?) is, Those from this neighborhood are yet in Suffolk that are well enough Joseph & Wm. Hare(?) have been quite sick but are now mending. It is expected they will be moved in a few days, as the militia will be taken to fill up other companys. It is said those over 35 years will be let go home til further orders. Henry Hare is the only one betweene 35 & 45 here.
I understand those from Southampton or the most of them have been put in a dungeon and Edward Haris Son of Math is very ill if living. They have been caried(?) to Norfolk or near there 3 weeks. Their (sic) are 6 others who refuse to bare arms that are not members with us. I suppose from Southampton I learn today that Dr Pretlow(?) & Dr Samuel(?) has offered to pay the penalty for some of them. I am under the impression they are endeavoring to pay the fine as the punishment is so severe. Friends of Perquimans have been paying their military fines. And I hear they have paid 100 dollars for 1 year. Those of North Hampton, what few have not been exempt from bodily infirmity, have been attending to stock or something of that sort. Those of Contenea(?) Quarter, we hear, wer except one, let go home with sick furloes a day or so before Newbern was take and have not been cald out since The one that did not go had not bin heard of about a week ago. It was said he did not run and said he could not Some think he is with the Northerners. I have not heard from Robt B. & Joel C. of lat only that Robt was at cont.(?) 2nd day week.
The health of my family is pretty good. My wife joines me in love to thee and thine.
Wm H. Hare
A4
Suffolk 4th mo 26th 1862
Copied for W.H.S. Wood
Dear Friend
J.B. Crenshaw,
I met thy father last evening on the street in company with Wm Hare. I understood him to say that he was stopping at the Washington Hotel. As soon as I had attended to some business in town, I went to the Hotel but he was not there. I conclude therefore that he went home with Wm Hare, as I understood him to say he had been thinking of it. He told me he felt concerned about those persons (not Friends) at Norfolk, who have scruples of conscience against bearing arms. I felt willing to suggest to thee & through thee to him, whether it would not be well for one or both of you, to write them an epistle of encouragement and comfort. I think it would be a good deed, if you feel like it, unless indeed it would give you more satisfaction to go and see them and to have an interview with Gen. Huger on their case. I do not suppose he will liberate them, but if they are not well treated, he might be induced to relax his restraints somewhat. I do not know their treatment. I am glad to find the authorities here so lenient as they are with the Friends. I met our Friends at Raleigh. The memorial has been printed & placed on the desks of the members, & been read in Convention. I do not know when it will be acted on. Very many are quite in favor of granting our petition, but I cannot say that I am at all confident of its success. Time is wanting to write more. A letter from thee would be very acceptable. Address me at Newbys Bridge.
From thy sincere friend
Wm Nicholson
A5
Jamestown, 29th 9th mo. 1862
My Dear Friend
A mourning mother sits beside me, and for her I waite. She has a son, a young man, named Elias Reeke, who is in prison in Castle Thunder, because "he is a Christian, and therefore he cannot fight." He is barely 18 years of age, and after he was drafted, was sent home, & has never been in the service. To escape being forced into the army he tried to reach the free States but was arrested in Western Va. In company with a young man named Haley Sills who has lived among Friends and cannot fight for the same reason that forbids the other.
They are together in prison. All who know them here, are deeply interested in their behalf, and do greatly desire that something may be done for their relief. It is said they get nothing but bread and water, & one of them, Sills, seems much enfeebled for want of food, both suffering for clean clothes.
Both have plenty of good clothes here if they could be sent to them.My miller, a young man named Harrison M. Barton[,] was forced to Richmond and from there to some point I know not where, in about the last 10 days. He is opposed to War.
If thou should come across him in Hospital or elsewhere, any kindness would be grateful to us here.A Young man named T. Ellwood Moore whose mother was brought up a Friend is reported to be wounded in the foot in some late engagement. It will be soothing to the poor mother to know that I have mentioned his case to thee, & asked for thy attention if thou can find him. I went to see her a few days since, and saw with my own eyes, that in her fits of agony she has torn the hair from her head until it is almost bare.
"How long? Oh Lord! How Long?"
If thou can minister to the relief of the young men, Reeke & Sills, food, clothing, or medicine, send on the account to me, and it shall be paid. Also the postage on the letters I sent thee some time since to mail for me. Please send the acct.
Fears are entertained that both Reeke & Sills may be dealt with as deserters. We do not consider them deserters because they never were in the service, and were aiming only to avoid the War for conscience sake.
With love Thy friend
Delphina E. Mendenhall
30th 9 mo.
A young man, brother of E. Reeke[,] spent an hour with me to-day. He says if he is forced into the army he cannot fight, even if he dies. Both the brothers are blameless in their lives from their childhood.
The mother of Ellwood Moore dined with me a few minutes ago, & seemed greatly comforted to find I had written thee on behalf of her son. We suppose he may be in a N.C. Hospital at Richmond & she begs thee to try to have him sent home to recover of his wound.
John Maris, member of our m mtg. In good esteem, has two sons conscripts in the army. Would go on to them if he knew where they are.
If he goes, thou wilt find pleasure in doing any kindness for him.
I am sensible thou hast many cares for thyself & others. The Lord be thy helper and they portion(?) forever.
Thy friend
D.E.M.
A6
State of North Carolina
Alamance Co
John Thompson Personally appears before me & makes oath that his son Geo Thompson has not been able to do a days work in two years that require walking upon the account that he is subject to bad spells of rheumatism he has been so bad some times that he could not get from the bed to the fire without his crutches he has made some shoes at times when he was at the best Sworn to before me this Oct the 4th 1862
JAJ Patterson Jr.This is to certify that J.A.J. Patterson is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County this 6th of Oct AD 1862
B. _____son C.S.C.I also certify as ____ that Geo Thompson has not been required to ________ duty in some time probably Five years
JAJ Patterson Capt
48(?) Reg of 12 Brig NC Militia
A7
Laws Relating to Non-Combatants
General Orders from Adjutant and Inspector General's Office, 1862
Sec VII Friends, Dunkards, Nazarines, and Mennonists.
"All Persons of the above denominations, in regular membership therein on the 11th day of Oct., 1862, shall be exempt from enrollment on furnishing a substitute, or on presenting to the enrolling officer a receipt from a bonded Quartermaster for the tax of five hundred dollars imposed by Act of Congress, and an affidavit by the Bishop, Presiding Elder, or other officer, whose duty it is to preserve the records of membership in the denomination to which the party belongs, setting forth distinctly the fact that the party, on the 11th day of Oct., 1862, was in regular membership with such denomination. The affidavit must be taken and certified before a Justice of the Peace, or other officer appointed by the law of his State to administer oaths, and his authority to administer oaths must be certified by the clerk of a court of record, under the seal of the court."
"All Assistant Quartermasters to whom the said tax is tendered, will receipt for it, and pay the same into the Treasury of the Confederate States, without unreasonably delay. The enrolling officer will receive the receipt and forward it to the commandant of conscripts, by whom it will be forwarded to the Quartermaster General, who will charge the Assistant Quartermaster with the amount received by him."
A8
Thomas Kennedy has been sent to the prison at Salisbury for very slight offense though I do not Fully know the particulars Needham T. Perkins & Thomas wife was up to see him a few days since don't know whether there will be any chance to do any thing for him
11. 7. 1862
[the back of the document reads: "Stephen Hobson 11.mo 29. 1862"]
A9
Procters Creeke
11mo 29th 1862
Dear Friend
I set myself to right a few lines to thee to let thee know that I am in camp here
I am in tolerable helth at present hoping that these lines may find thee and thine well
Isham ___ came here and got a paper of me and the Capten and said that hee would send it to thee for to get mee discharged if thee could and waiting two weeks I concluded that I would right to thee with the request that thee would right to me and let me know whether thee has got it or not and what the prospect is or if thee could make it convenient(?) to come to see mee I should bee very glad to see thee I would like to here from thee soon
Stephen Hobson
To John Crinshaw
PS Direct to Proctors Creek Va in care of Capt Albright 53 Regiment
Supposed to be 11mo 1862
I suppose thou hast heard the cause of Thomas Kennedy's imprisonment. I saw his wife yesterday she says she does not look for his release before the end of the war if he should live that long I accompanied here to Salisbury to see Thomas about three weeks ago the old man seemed as cheerful aas though he had been about home he has privalege of going anywhere at will in the enclosure. Brother Calvin is still there he was brought to the gate of the garrison and I allowed to speak about ten words to him we were then separated. I have been there three times during his nine months imprisonment and each time my interview has been equally as short as the last. Calvin had the promise of being exchanged some months ago but they refuse to carry out their promise.
In the sixth mo last I served out a writ of Habeus Corpus in his favor. They confessed on trial that they had no charges against him yet the judge put off the trial for about ten days pretending they might find something against him. During this time the President declared martial law there the judge said that put a stop to the case.
Some three months ago the President was petitioned for his release there was nothing found against him there the Secretary of war ordered his release more than two months ago. The commandant of the prison requires a bond of $5,000.00 for his good behavior and take the oath of allegence to the Southern Confederacy before he releases him he says he will stay there until the end of the war before he would do either
[This note in another hand: "I think from N.T. Perkins"]
More than 140 Southern men in prison at Salisbury. Only two federals when I was there
A11
. . . am selling at $5. to 6. No ___ to be ____ I have some hope that S Hobson, J Harvey may be released without paying fine, I have no hope for __M Miller or for Jo Troublood, at present
With much love to thy self & family of whom I often think, I remain thy friend
John B. Crenshaw
My Dear Wife & children send their love to thee(?)
[This note in another hand: Letter to A.W. Tomlinson 12.3.1862]
A12
12th mo 4th 1862
Wakefield Hamilton Co. Indiana
Dear Wife
With pleasure I tak my seat to drop thee a few lines, to let thee know that I am well at this time and cincerely hope that those few lines may find thee well. The Hinshaw and Barker boys is all well.
I was at Jemina Coxes(?) last week they were all well. I would be very glad to see thee and hope that we may be permitted to see thee as soon as thee thinks it will do to come I would be very glad to here from thee. And my Father brother and Sister. And now dear Mary I must bid thee farewell at this time and if we are not permitted to meet on Earth may we be permitted to meet in Heaven where parting is no more I remain thy husband
William A Moffitt
To Mary Moffitt
A13
East Bend Decem 12th 1862
John Crenshaw
Dear Friend
I have not been able to get(?) to procure a check to send you for the money you advanced fore the relief of my Brothe in camp T.A. Benbow I have just returned from Salem my self and I sent once and(?) failed the cashier said he had no funds at Richma now and he could not tell when he would have if he cannot find(?) it soon I will go to Greensborough and try there to get a check and send you. If I cannot get a check I will watch for an opportunity to send you the money. Yours &c
E. Benbow
A14
Proctors Creek
Va 12th 28 1862
Dear Friend
John B. Crenshaw
Thy leter of the 24 came to hand the 26 ins whitch was very gladly received
We ar all a bout as we wer when thee was here as to helth
My discharge has not come to hand yet our Regiment left here tu weeks ago to morrow the went to Goldsborough N Carolina we don't know whether the will come back or not if not we will halve to go to them shortly I expect as to George Thompsons case I canot see eny thing that can bee done while things are as they are at present only send thee that paper that hee has got an see what thee can doo for him So I will Sen it and iff thee can do iny thing for him do it at once if thee can for we are looking for help from home evry day and let us know as soon as thee can what thee thinks can bee done Simon D(?) Kemp Said that I should say to thee that he was looking for some one to come after him I think it likey that if the come thee will find it out when the come I remain thy friend
Stephen Hobson
B1
1st mo 9th 1863
Dear Friend
John B. Crenshaw
I embrace this opertunity to let thee know that I am well at present and I hope these lines may find thee and thine enjoying the same blessing under the protection of a kind providence I Read they favor of 2on (inst) together with the twenty Dollars I sent for I can state that my wife has been to see me and brought me a blanket If there is any thing that can be done in Congress for my relief or any other way attend to it and do not stand back on account of money I am many times obliged to thee for thy favors write to my folks for compenseation write to me I am and trust shall ever Remain thy affectionate friend
Isaac Trueblood
To John B Crenshaw
B2
Jamestown N.C. 9th 1st mo. 1863
My Dear Mary
We are all yet alive & in common health, here & in Randolph. Addie is with me, & we hope to go down on a visit soon. I write fearing my letter may not be received. Yet it may. I shall direct to Carthage hoping the P.M. will enquire where you are & forward to you.
L.D.M's mother recd thy letter sent to me telling us of your welfare, & whereabouts. Of course I need not say how very welcome the little messenger was to us all.
I am still trusting that way will be made for us to meet again. I still see the hand of providence extended for our help. [I]n all trials His hand is stretched out still. Read the 91st Psalm -- read all the Psalms -- all the Bible -- read it together -- seriously -- prayerfully -- obediently. Remember every day, it is Jesus who provides for those you love. Thank Him -- serve Him -- Love Him -- and we shall meet when it pleases him. Most affectionately
D.E. Mendenhall
To L.D. Moody
My Dear Nephew
Our neighbors occasionally receive letters from the Western States -- which is a great favor, as most of us have friends and relations there. Please make an effort to send us a letter once a month & we will forward it to thy mother.
We will write when we can -- if we know where to direct our letters.
Let me repeat what I have already written to Mary, that in the midst of my trials I see the hand of our Heavenly Father extended for my help, every day I live.
Pray, try to profit from my experience and trust in him for all things -- in this life and the life to come.
It is a blessed life to live dependent wholly dependent on Infinite Goodness. Oh, that treasury is unfailing! Trust in it alone -- forever -- and all will be well. Affectionately
D.E. Mendenhall
My dear Sister
I presume you would like to know about what has transpired in the last 5 mos. So I will try to tell you a part. Wyatt came home in September sick and has been in very poor health ever since at one time we had but little hope of his recovery but now he thinks he is improving slowly.
Dr. Henry Had a very severe attack of Typhoid fever is getting well.
Dr. Worth's son Jimmy died of yellow fever; also Clarkson Worth. Calvin Hicks Amy's husband died suddenly last fall 2 weeks after Queen Spencer died of Diptheria. Diptheria has been very prevalent, we have escaped so far.
We are all very anxious to hear from you I hope you will receive this.
Nancy Bates sends her love to you. All the children want to see you.
Your sister Addie
[the back of letter reads: L.D. Moody Carthage Rush County N.C.]
B3
New Garden N.C.
1st mo 9th 1863
Dear John:
I reply to thy letter by the first mail after its receipt. The terms for board and tuition at New Garden are $65 per session or $70 if languages are studied. This is on the specie basis. At present the trustees(?) are taking 12 in Confederate for one. They would not agree to do this a month or two months hence. But would receive payment now for the whole session at that rate. The board then, may be paid by $10 per month, tuition 3 to $4 in specie, or Board $120 per month, tuition $36 to $48 in Confederate. This includes board and washing; candles(?) make a separate charge. Tallow is now $6 per 10. Books will be supplied as far as we have them, and if preferred a charge made only for use. I know not what other items to refer to. There are now only 12 months remaining of the present session.
Nathaniel is well and I think applying himself industriously.
I intended to go today to see Judith, as she has mostly had charge of the correspondence with Tilghman and in relation to him, but I have no way but to talk(?). Did circumstances permit, I should go to see him, as it is we must depend on thee to do and furnish what is necessary to receive him as comfortable as possible.
It is probably a profitless(?) thing to comment upon the conduct of those in authority, but it does strike me as rather beneath the dignity of a high minded man, not to give a youth the liberty of changing his opinions. It savors of vindictiveness. My wish is, for myself, that Tilghman may not be neglected, and allowed unnecessarily to suffer directly this cold weather, and for him that he may stand firm to his own conscientious convictions. With love
I remain yr fnd(?)
Nereus Mendenhall
B4
Jamestown, 10th 1st mo. 1863
J.B. Crenshaw
My Dear Friend
I owe thee many thanks for they efforts in behalf of my miller.
His father came and released me from any further obligation in regard to him & I have given up the case.
On the last day of last year Isabella, wife of Thos. Kennedy[,] entered our room on his return from a visit to him at Salisbury. He is there, charged with feeding a supposed Yankee, & showing him the way, to a ford of the river.
He is very calm & resigned(?) -- feeling no guilt on account of feeding the hungry & showing a man who pretended to be lost, the road that led to the ford he wished to cross. But he was entrapped into that act, by a malicious neighbor, aided by Alabama soldiers. The whole affair was a wicked conspiracy.
On the 6th inst. Samuel McClure[,] a room-mate of T. Kennedy[,] was discharged after a confinement of 13 months -- no evidence against him -- a native of Pa. brought up a Friend -- a well instructed friend in principle -- He came here -- is now at Elisha Mendenhall's.
Thomas Ellwood Moore, grandson of Jesse Moore decd who sta at head of our meeting some years, is, or was recently in hospital at Richmond. He writes his mother this address, "St. Charles General Hospital Richmd Va."
They have a little property and his mother wishes to pay the $500. for his release. He is dropsical -- & unless he can be released will probably die.
He writes often. I have read several of his letters, all evincing an earnest desire, to live a Christian life.
He is conscientiously opposed to war. If possible, see if anything can be done for the poor young man -- & if so, write me.
I saw Mary's parents this week in common health.
Can thou mail the enclosed letter to Carthage Indiana?
Thy friend
D.E. Mendenhall
B5
Pikeville N.C. 1st mo 19th 1863
J.B. Crenshaw
Dear Friend
Thy favor relative to the rosen came to hand just as I was starting to the Quarterly Meeting. I had long been looking for it I have about 300 [lbs] of rosen on the railroad eight miles north of Goldsboro at Pikeville where there is no switch or turnout to the road consequently the railroad co. would not leave a car or cares there for me to load at a time when the road is used as much as it has been of late. I therefore could not agree to deliver the rosen on the cares under no consideration. The quality of the rosen is what is called common or No 3 and has been strained and is as good as is generally found of that description the [lbs] I would engage to everage 310 lbs or more. I have heard that such rosen is worth $9 to $10.00 pr [lb] at Morehead City in North Carolina. The most of my rosen is under a shelter. I would sell it for three dollars pr [lb] where it is to be paid before or(?) when(?) it was or delivered _____ If I cannot do that I shall hold it for a better price in time to come My family and neighbors about in usual health. The wither very disagreeable our qr meeting small.
I remain thy friend
N.T. Perkins
. . . I cannot learn, the Secretary of War required such a bond to be given, & it is very natural, & I think right, he feeling himself to be a harmless & innocent man who had done nothing against his government. Should indignantly refuse to give such a bond, as the giving of it would be in some measure, a confession of a guilt he does not feel.
In reference to the oath, that is an old engine of persecution against our Society much used in the days of Fox & Penn by means of which many loyal & true men suffered persecution & imprisonment even unto death: An oath we can not take under any consideration because our Lord hath said "Swear not at all." Yet I have no doubt but Calvin would be ready at any time to tak an affirmation to be in subjection to the Powers that be & under no circumstances to render aid & comfort to the enemy Believing him to be an innocent & harmless man I respectfully ask that upon taking such an affirmation he be allowed to return home to his friends
N.T. Perkins
B6
. . . [here skipped difficult to read J.B. Crenshaw letter]
B7
Jamestown 11th 2nd mo. 1863
My Dear Friend,
I give an extract from a letter I recd to-day from Judge Caldwell of Salisbury N.C. -- dated 9th inst.
"Your letter was written on the 6th of Jany. I left for Alabama on the 5th & returned on the 1st of this mo., & found it among my papers. I came home sick, & have been confined by the weather & bad health, ever since. I called on the Capt. Of the prison to-day, & showed him your letter, & he gave me leave to see Mr. Kennedy. I went to the prison, & delivered your letter, & had a talk with him. The officers all sympathize with him. I have used & shall use all proper efforts to get him liberated, and am not without hope. If they were sure they had the power, there would be no difficulty, as they desire his release. Mr. Kennedy refuses to affirm allegiance to the Confederate Government, & this is the only obstacle, for I offered to stand his surety for his fidelity & good behavior.["]
He wishes to go to Wayne Court, so as to be there next Monday to attend to some Court business, & I told the Officers, one & all, that I would stand his surety for his return. They have the matter under consideration & will allow it, if they can. So you see my dear friend, I have done all I could to forward your wishes, & shall continue to do so."
I send by this mail, a copy of the above letter to Thomas Kennedy's wife. The mother of Elwood Moore was here yesterday. I told here I had written about his case, but he is not a member of our Society, & therefore cannot have the necessary certificate.
I recd a letter from him recently, & his mother 2 letters which I read yesterday. He is certainly a changed man, or is the subject of strong delusion. He thinks he has experienced a sense of pardon for all his sins, and is fully resigned to the will of the Lord.
I forgot to explain, that some one had made his mother believe that because of his being brought up among "friends" she could have him liberated by paying $500. which she was anxious to do. And one of her friends tried in my presence to employ someone to go on for that purpose. I wrote, I think, that his Grand-father sat some years at the head of our meeting, but failed to add as I ought, that T.E. Moore himself was not a member.
The effort made serves only to soothe his poor mother, & may help to save her from an overthrow of reason.
Tell Mary I saw her Father & Mother on first-day at meeting. They are generally quite well, where they have fresh tidings of her welfare, but if they look for a letter a mail or two before it arrives, they are anxious about her. She must write often. I have a little selfishness at the bottom of this requisition, for it is a comfort to me too, to hear of her safety.
Corn sold at a public sale in Guilford recently at $5.70 per bus., and it is very hard to find a man who will sell a bushel at any price. New bacon has sold at 60c per lb.
The hand of Divine Providence alone can prevent the poor from starvation.
Tell Mary her Aunt Sarah has requested her to be recd. A member of our Meeting -- and Alpheus Mendenhall -- a woman named Polly Frederick attends our meeting with the same wish.
Daniel Barker has been suffering with cough this winter & has not been able to attend meeting often. He is improving in health, & had a good service the last time he was with us.
Farewell my dear Friends
D.E. Mendenhall
B8
Headquarters ANVa
Sep 24th 1863
Nereus Mendenhall
New Garden Guilford NC
Your letter of Sep 15th in behalf of your nephew Tilman Vestal a private in the 14th Tennessee regiment has been received. The Genl commanding has caused an investigation of his case to be made by the proper officer. This officer reports that on his refusal to do any duty whatever or to make arrangements to pay the fine imposed under the law for a discharge compulsory means were used on the occasion alluded to in your letter & he was pricked with bayonets but not to an extent to unfit him for duty. This proceeding was perhaps irregular and as such not approved by the Genl commanding. But he knows but one proper mode of proceeding under the law and that is to bring Private Vestal before a Court Martial for "conduct prejudiced to good order & Military discipline in refusing to do duty as a soldier. The law makes but one distinction in the case of Friends or Quakers which allows them all to escape Military service by payment of the fine imposed. This not having been complied with by Tilman Vestal and he being sent by the authorities as a soldier to this Army, the Genl commanding is compelled to act in this case as he would in that of any other delinquent soldier
I am very respectfully
Your ob Servt
CS Venable
___ _ _____
B9
Westminster 3 mo 13th 1863
Dear Friend
John B. Crenshaw
I received, on yesterday, the passport thee procured for me which was quite a favour. I think I shall start first day 2 weeks. I think I should have started sooner but J.E. Cox thinks of crossing the line & going over into Va. & wished me to wait for him. I think of crossing the line in the lower part of this state as I can be carried the intercepted distance between the railroads in the lower part of this state on better terms than I could from Stanton to Winchester; & I also want to go by Baltimore. Jonathan Gordon was here to day and wished me to write to thee again to make a further effort to get his son Oliver released from military service; - I may state that there is quite a change in his position from what it was when I wrote last; since then he has become a member of the society of friends & wishes to pay his five hundred Dollars & receive the benefit of the exemption act as allowed to friends. I may state this much on his behalf; that he bears the name of being a very upright strate forward conscientious young man; he is brother to Jesse that we paid out when I was at Richmond who has since become a member of society.
At our last monthly meeting we received eleven new members Amongst whom was sister Sarah Wilborn & 2 of her children
I had like to have forgotten to state if thee can get Oliver released by paying the $500 write us & we will forward the money or if thou hast the money that will not be in use if thou wilt pay it & send on the discharge & the amount I will see that Jonathan Gordon & his son pays thee & the interest on thy money & satisfy thee for thy trouble
Most respectfully thy friend
Jonathan Harris
They wish to pay confederate money)
B10
Jamestown N.C. 31st 3rd mo. 1863
To John B. Crenshaw -
My Dear Friend - I am very loath to impose burdens on thee, but am driven by necessity so to do.
I recd a letter this week from Harriet Lam(?), the cord woman at Petersburgh, asking me for papers to enable her to remove to Baltimore with a white family who design going in about two weeks under flag of truce from Petersburgh. But she did not furnish the man's name.
Of course I could not make him a Power of Atto. for removing her. And beside, I did not know the character of the man.
She is now at Raleigh, waiting for papers. In this dilemma I went to Hon. John A. Gilmer at Greensboro, who proposed that I should convey title to thee, and thou could make an agent for the purpose of removing her to Baltimore. He prepared the conveyance. I signed it, & procured the certificate & seal of our Court, in proper form, & mailed it to Harriet at Greensboro yesterday & returned home last night. To-day I send her about $80. & if she is not able to repay out of this sum whatever expenses thou may incur, charge that to my account, and I will pay it as soon as I can. I prefer to pay thy expenses for a trip to Petersburgh, rather than trust her in the care of any man whom we do not know to be reliable.
I think on making her acquaintance thou will unite with me in the belief, that "She is worthy, for whom this deed is to be done."
There is a woman named Amy Alston in my care living in Jamestown -- I am her legal owner -- who desires very much to go to her Husband in Ohio. Can I send her on to go with Harriet? I will furnish the funds for her transportation. She is also a worthy woman -- a professor of religion -- but not the experienced Spiritual Minded woman that Harriet is.
Or, had I better make a separate trip for her, & consign her to Miles White, with a hope she will reach her husband?
The aspect of affairs seems to indicate that whatever is to be done, must be done quickly, before another terrible conflict in Va. If possible, I wish her to go with Harriet if she can.
Please write me soon as convenient, & be assured I shall properly appreciate all thou may say or do.
If they can go, please furnish them with a letter to Miles White or Francis B. King.
I would be very glad to get all my people to Baltimore. I saw Jonathan Harris at Greensboro' yesterday on his way to take the train North. Thomas Kennedy was sent to the "United States" some weeks ago, in conformity with the judgment of the commissioner who was sent to Salisbury. He went in company with about 14 Federal prisoners. His wife, providentially reached Salisbury, & was met with the intelligence that her Husband was sent North the night before. She persevered in her enquiries, until she found that after the train started, it had to go back to Salisbury, & returned the prisoners to the Garrison.
She was allowed to enter, & found her husband & others eating their last breakfast there. Necessary papers were hastily written & signed, and his new clothing which she took him packed in his trunk, when they were summoned to the train. She rode with him to Raleigh. There they parted.
Where the train was reversed the night before her arrival, one of the Northern prisoners said, "Friend Kennedy, it is on your account that we are thus detained."
The officers of the Garrison, & many others sympathized deeply with him, and entertained high respect for him. He was patient & submissive, & said he felt that this trial had been for his good. He has children in the West who will take good care of him.
Amy Alston has been to see me, in great distress about getting on. She seemed comforted by hearing I had already written to a friend to enquire if there was any chance to send her.
Thy friend
Delphina E. Mendenhall
B11
Jamestown - 4th 4th mo. 1863
To J.B. Crenshaw
My Dear Friend
Tonight I recd a letter, which shows I was under a mistake in regard to the family Harriet proposes to travel with. Instead of being a man in Petersburg, it is Jefferson Fisher of Raleigh, whose wife is the daughter of Harriet's old master -- Clark -- & she was Julia Fisher's nurse, who is much attached to Harriet.
They are aiming to start for Baltimore in a week or two, & wish to take Harriet's daughter Fanny with them, to go by stage most of the way, crossing the Rappahannock & Potomac.
I have written to Julia Fusher by this mail proposing for her Husband to go to see thee, & for Harriet also to go -- to identify him -- & to assure thee -- that she wishes Fanny to travel with them, & then thou would empower him to take Fanny, & would assist in procuring a passport for Harriet & her family.
I hope all will prosper. Harriet thinks of going down James River, & up the Bay to Baltimore.
The time is so short, I release thee from any present answer in regard to sending Amy Alston. It may be some other way will open for her this summer. Rhoda C. Elliott is suffering with sore throat, & thinks of going North in a few weeks for medical aid.
I saw Mary's mother on fifth day -- well -- Daniel Barker's son Enoch was to pay the $500. yesterday. It will take his little home to make the money.
We are in usual health
Thy friend
D.E. Mendenhall
B12
Jamestown 20th 4th mo. 1863
My Dear Friend,
I saw Mary E. Harris yesterday & recd thy verbal message having recd thy letter sent by her, the day before.
I fully approve thy judgment in not separating Fanny from the family, and have so written to Harriet to-day.
The failure to procure passports, was a sore trial to me. She had written me that she had an assurance, passports for herself & family could be obtained. My heart is striving to cast its burden on the dear Lord, who has so often sustained and delivered me. Surely my soul can testify that He is good, and His mercy endureth forever.
I have thought it might be best for thee to retain the transfer of title for a while, in case any trouble should arise before Harriet can be removed from Va. Thou will discover on reading it, that it explains the reason why she was not taken to a free State in accordance with the Decree of our Supreme Court. I started with the view of going West by R.R. from Wytheville Va, expecting to have an agent to bring Harriet & family from Petersburg to join us, & was prevented by an armed force. Her passage previous to that was prevented by the Balt. & Ohio Road being torn up, after I had bread baked for the journey. But for the War she would have been removed at the proper time. Be fore the War, I was hindered by sickness & death in my family. In the midst of all these trials, hindrances, & disappointments, I was favored with calm, submissive reliance on the Arm that is not shortened, and with such daily manifestations of Divine Providence over-ruling all, that I still have cause for hope, that his help will be extended, in his own way and time.
Our quarterly meeting is just over, at Springfield. I attended on 6th & 7th days. Daniel Barker thought it a favored meeting. We had a long sermon from Seth Barker, very fervent, and much instructive exhortation from Daniel, David Moffatt & David Frazier. The latter has just returned from a religious visit to a Rich Square & Piney Woods, with minutes that are very satisfactory.
We have heard with sorrow, that Thomas Kennedy is in the Hospital at Washington City, and that two of William Hockett's sons are in prison at Kinston. [They] had been kept 24 hours when last heard from, without anything to eat or drink, simply for the reason that they are "Christians, & therefore cannot fight." Four other young Friends are in the army, who cannot see it right to pay the $500. tax. Two of them are Nicholas Barker's sons, and one, his soninlaw.
To revert to Harriet's case -- I see no way at present to any thing but "Stand Still." My heart is engaged in prayer to be led aright in regard to her -- and all other things.
I have a little money of a Benevolent Fund in my hands that can be applied in her case when needed.
If I could get her to New Berne or Norfolk, I would be willing to accompany her, if it seemed right.
The journey by land, by wagon, seems at present to be impracticable. I must wait. With love to thy wife & children, Father & Mother, & desiring the prayers of all my friends on my behalf, I bid thee an affectionate farewell!
Thy friend
Delphina E. Mendenhall
If thou should see any light
In Harriets case, please let me
know.
B13
Rocky Hill 3rd mo 17th/63
John B. Crenshaw
Esteemed Friend
Having had some knowledge of they general character, I call on thee in this our day of trouble. My dear husband Thomas Kennedy is in Richmond Hospital, "Sanitary Commission." The letter now before me was written the 8th. He in company of 15 were taken there the 6th with the promise that they were to be taken immediately to City Point where they were to be exchanged. I got to Salisbury at 6 Oclock the morning of the 6th and they left at 10 we were favored to keep in company till we got to Raleigh There we parted, perhaps forever! But the promise of his being released cheered me with a hope that he would be comfortable amongst his Children and numerous Friends. L.T.(?) Pancost and him have been Roomates and fellow sufferers together, and are now both in Hospital with Rheumatism. The uncertainty of their remaining there has prevented me from writin to Thomas, hoping they have been released ere this. Withall the extra comforts they had a Salisbury his health is rapidly declining. He cannot bear exposure hence I beg thy immediate attention. Supply him with what is necessary, tell him why I do not write, and be so good as to advise me how to proceed to obtain his release. Calvin G. Perkins has been released by a writ of Habeas Corpus his Brother N.T. Perkins took him out the day after we left. We learn there has been one gotten out for Thomas. would it be best to serve that or get up a petition signed by Citizens here requesting a release from Davis? Our(?) early attention to this will very much relieve the suffering of thy friends both mental and physically and I hope bring Peace to thy own mind. If Thomas is still there I want to come on as soon as I hear from thee. write me when thee can meet me at the Depo, giving time for letters to pass &c. as I shall probably have to come alone. My dear Husband I am at a loss for words to express my feelings at getting your letter of 8th I had mingled in the joy of thee and thy fellow prisoners in hope of freedom till I had almost forgotten my own sorrow. And when I heard at the disappointed hopes kindled only to wither in a day -- my heart almost sank within me. If it was not for the ray of Light administered to the weary, we should of all people be most miserable. What is this world without the hope of a better, a rest from all out cairs and sorrows. I sometimes feel that it would be a relief to me to hear that thy suffering here was over hoping and believing that our Heavenly Master has and will have pity on us, and when He sees it is enough He will make a way for our escape, either in life or by death. Eliza is quite sick, cannot get an action of the bowels in near a month. Dr Kirk Petrie(?) is attending her. Her youngest brother and sister are both dead. Isabella mends very slowly has gone to Nathans to recruit.(?) Mary Jane has taken the school for five months more, had a good sympathizing letter from Maria H. Franck(?) and N.T. Perkins. My _____ sympathy by L.D. Pancost and all the other prisoners.
Isabella Kennedy
B14
High Point 4th mo 2nd 1863
John B. Crenshaw
Esteemed Friend
As our minds are often awakened with sympathy for our friends who are conscripts, and are dragged away from their families and homes this is the cause of my writing to thee at the present time.
Enoch L. Crises a member of Springfield Mo Mee was arrested and taken from his home on last second day leaving a wife and two little children who are all members of our Mo Mee; Enoch was brought up in the belief of friends, his mother being a member; & sometimes during last summer he requested to come under the care of friends but on account of his being from home was not received into membership until since that act was passed exempting friends by paying $500. Dollars. he cannot nor will not bear arms. I received a few lines from him today, written by him whilst under guard at Greensborough, on his way to the 22nd N.C. regiment on the Rappahannock; as he understood them, but the thing may be changed. Now to give thee further information: he together with other friends had been endeavoring to do all that could be done for his release; the necessary papers as we thought were prepared and placed in the hands of Isham Cox together with similar papers for other persons; he expected to start to Richmond on last first day night, the night before Enoch was taken off; if he went right on to Richmond, thou perhaps has seen him before this time or perhaps hast learned from him more fully the particulars of his case; and will be able to judge in thy own mind whether there will be any chance for his release; I have not been able to learn to my own satisfaction where away on the Rappahonock this 22nd Regiment is; this together with any other information will be thankfully received by me
Any assistance or comfort that though feels willing to give him in any way, no doubt would be very thankfully received by him as he was dragged away without any of the comforts of life.
There is a great deal of complaint of inflammatory colds in this neighborhood; I have been confined to the house myself for the last two or three weeks with cold.
With due respects to thyself and family: I am truly thy friend
John Carter
B15
[skipped another difficult letter here]
B16
Westminster, Guilford, N.C.
10th of 4th mo 1863
Esteemed friend
J.B. Crenshaw
While at leisure this morning I thought to give thee some facts relative to my nephew Alpheus L. Mendenhall. He has been troubled by the military people nearly all the time since the commencement of the war. When the draft was run in our County in the 2nd mo 1862 he was drafted, & being so much opposed to going into the War hired a substitute which cost him 3 or 400 dollars. His substitute was over fifty years of age but did not volunteer, consequently left Alpheus subject to conscription. He then obtained a detail to tan leather for Government purposes. After the passage of the exemption act (being a tanner by trade) he applied for the benefit of that at the time of the last enrollment but was refused, because he had been detailed before this act was passed, to work for the Government. He was again detailed to prevent going to the War. He is now furnishing his leather (from compulsion) at $1.00 per lb made from the hides for which he had paid $1.25 per lb. He is a young man and had just commenced business with somewhat limited capital -- he feels that his little stock will soon be exhausted & that finally he will be taken to the Army, unless something can be done for his relief.
He had a birth right in the Society of Friends, but was disowned for accomplishing his marriage contrary to discipline, but still retaining the principles of friends was not satisfied without requesting to become a member of this Society again: his request was granted a few months past. After stating these facts to thee, I ask if thou can see any chance to do any thing for him in his ___ situation. He would be glad to avail himself of the benefit of the exemption act passed on behalf of the Society of Friends, if that privilege could be granted. Wilto thou be so kind as to enquire into his case & let me hear at an early day, what thou thinks the prospect is.
Friends here are generally well. Our little meeting at Deep River continues to increase in size: new members occasionally being added to our number. The friends who were opposed to our members availing themselves of the exemption act at our last Yearly Meeting have since that time become as willing to accept of it as others. Direct thy letter to Westminster, Guilford Co., N.C.
I remain thy friend
Elihu E. Mendenhall
B17
2nd day 13th
We missed the opportunity of sending home and are still in prison having been 3 days and nights without one morsel of sustainance either bread or water and the captian visits us twice a day tells us that we will find Gen Ransoms orders carried out for he will see us dead and buried before he will give way one particle. We however [do] not think it safe to give way to his demands having a master even Christ to whom it is our duty to yield ourselves servants to day. Now read the 10th 11th & 12th Chapters of Hebrews and they will set forth our faith and whereunto we must come in order to become servants of the living and eternal God who has bought us with a price and is able to redeem us from all suffering and bondage in his own time and pleasure when he is pleased to say, 'it is enough.' Whatever our fate may be we feel perfectly resigned to Gods blessed will which is a duty all Christians must come unto, and we have felt that we could give up all things in this earth for his sake near and dear as they seem to us. Such has been our comfort after three days and nights of starving that we have rested many times perfectly at ease not knowing the need of any thing. Yea we have thought that bread from Heaven had not been withheld. We sometimes feel the "River of Life" to be flowing so near that we can hardly desire to return to such freedom as the world can give.3rd day evening the 21st 1863
Having been deprived of sending you a letter [in] the last mail we now embrace the favor. We went 4 ½ days without one morsel of nourishment by this time it pleased the Lord to touch the hearts of [these] people and we were given one half pint of sugar and ____ the first night and next morning we received bread and other victuals as we were thought able to bear it, it being 5 days we eat nothing at all. We are now recruited up and feell quite well. We have been quite well with very little exception ever since we left home. We were placed in the care of captain Ro(?) Baxter of the 9th regiment co H. who is detailed at this place with his company to keep the prisoners, and who merits our grateful(?) thanks for his kindness to us. He kept us under guard for some days and then told us he should take the guard away from round us only when we had occasion to awk out of doors we mus take a man with us also that we might walk where we pleased over the house. The building is a large house with 4 rooms upstairs 15 feet square and a passage of twelve feet between them We have one room with privilege to go into any of the others when(?) ____ We have corn bread and meat brough to us from the bakery buy our own coffee. There is a woman in one of the rooms with her husband who cooks and washes for a company of soldiers her husband being one of them, who makes our coffe for us, and is very kind and sympathizing to us: in short we are treated with a great deal of sympathy by all the soldier in Battery company who think strange that we are not sent home expressing a belief that we will be in a short time. We know not when but trust it will be in the Lords own time [and] are endeavoring to abide in patience, remembering that not a sparrow shall fall to the earth without his notice. We want to hear from home by next mail please tell us how Ellen is getting along and all the people in general we cannot write to all now but will write as opportunity is afforded. Show this letter to Jesse's family and let it suffice for us both as he does not expect to write now. I would like to know how thee was getting along with the work and how the stock(?) were doing. I would rather the stock(?) were all kept at present if they can be taken care of, as I think them better than any thing they can be turned into. Is Wm B. Hockett at home, has Sol. Swain got well who is staying with thee. Well write me a long letter of small particulars. Do not be discouraged but look forward with an eye of faith my dearest ones and I humbly trust that better days will soon arise. Bless & kiss the children for me & tell them _ how I love them
Direct your letters to Kinston Lenoir Co. N.C.
Rachel Hockett H.M. Hockett
Kingston 4th mo. 10th 1863
Dear wife & children
Having the chance of sending home a few lines rather unexpectedly I conclude to write though under circumstances which I fear will prove trying to thee I am in pretty good health and have been quite well for me ___ nearly ever since I left home. Jesse is not quite as well he has taken cold and has quite a troublesome cough though we hope nothing serious. We were assigned to Captain Bunting's Wilmington horse artillery company stationed at Kinston and brought here last fourth day and remained in camp till this morning on being required to drill, we refused; and were sent up to town one mile this s[ide] of the battery to appear before General Ran[som](?) He told us that he would hear no pleas about religion as the law had made provision and he was bound to execute them. That he should put us in a room up stairs and we should not have one drop of water nor one morsel of provision neither communicate with any man (unless authorities) till we agreed to go on duty or pay the $500. tax
B18
Westminster N.C. 4th mo 15th 1863
Dear Friend
J.B Crenshaw
I address thee a few lines at the request of Gusten(?) Widop(?) who was conscripted the 20th of the first month last, & was in camp about 24 hour but has rendered no service. He says he is conscientious against fighting & cannot bear arms. He is not a member of society
I am personally acquainted with him & know him to be a quiet peaceable young man & of moral & industrious habits: he wishes to avail himself of the exemption act by paying $500 there are three brothers of them, all conscripted which leaves no available person to cultivate the farm as his father is too old & feeble to perform labour If the authorities could feel themselves justified in granting his exemption I am satisfied as a matter of policy that $500 & his services on the farm would be of more value to the confederacy than his services could be made to be in the field. I believe him to be as he represents himself -- conscientious against fighting He says he will place the money in my hands so soon as it can be ascertained that he is exempted. Thou wilt please attend to it soon & write to me
Most respectfully thine
Jonathan Harris
B19
Iredell County NC 4 mon the 23 1863
Most esteemed
Friend John B. Crenshaw
I avail myself of this opertunity of wrighting to the I have a brothe in law in the Army near Fredricksburg that I wish to git of John Carter of Guilford and others have advised me to wright to the my brother is not a member of our society but he has attended Friends meetings and I think believs in friends principles at last he is as much opposed to war as we are I have been informed that there has some go discharged by paing $500.00 that was not Friends now the object of wrighting to the is to now whether such an one can be got off or not by paing $500.00 and whether the can assist me or not if it can be dun I want the to wright to me fourthwith direct me how to proceed that is if it takes any instrument of wrighting my brother in law is quite a ___ ordly(?) man he was taken from home by force I suppose he has taken armes but he new if he refused to bair armes he would be punished he has dun this through fear I think I can establish his principles to be decidedly opposed to wars of any kind answer my letter and let me know what I must do if any thing can be dun
Thine truly
Thomas W. Johnson
William A. Burgiss, a brother in law to me is in the 18 Rregment Company I(?) if a case of this kind requires no wrighting if the can git him discharged by paing $500.00 I will pai the thy money back and satisfy the for thy troble but I suppose thare will have to be something to sertify his principlesPerhaps the has forgotten me I travaild with the from Hunting Creek meeting house in Yadkin Co to Dover in Gilford since that time I have maried have a pretty little wife and 2 children we are in common helth excuse the rude stile of this letter
Thine with Respect
Thomas W. Johnson
Direct thy letter to Hamptonsville to Yadkin County NC to Thomas W. Johnson
B25
New Garden N.C. 4 mo 25th 63
J.B. Crenshaw
Respected Friend
A Lamb(?) addressed thee, I have been informed, concerning Charles Perish, who wished to get released from service on paying his tax of $500. This is to inform thee that he has been released on the account of his health which was bad during his stay. Charles has returned home, with a discharge, from service.
A Lamb(?) is from home at this time, is why I inform thee of this. If thou hast not paid his tax thou need not, or go to any further trouble, until further ordered. We feel under many obligations to thee for thy many kind favours
I remain as ever thy friend
Jonathan Gordan