The Missouri in the Civil War Message Board

Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.

Karin: I don't know if you have seen this letter, or if this is even your ancestor, but it indicates that one O. A. Williams was apparently an assistant surgeon at the Missouri State Guard general hospital at Springfield at the time the letter was written. Unfortunately, it is not dated, but it sounds as if it was written shortly after the battle of Wilson's Creek (10 Aug 1861). The surgeon in charge of the hospital, and thus his immediate superior, was Captain James G. Russell. I have no idea when he joined the Guard, or how long he may have served. The Guard maintained a hospital at Springfield from after the battle of Wilson's Creek until it evacuated the town in mid-February, 1862. His mention of Spring Hill makes me think this officer may have had some connection to Daviess County, Missouri. He appears to have been a colorful fellow to say the least. This is all I can find on this officer other than the card at the Sec of State's office.

Head Quarters
Genl Hospital M.S.G.
Springfield, Mo.

Dear John – I suppose ere this you have had correct information in regard to the fight so I will say nothing about it. I am not in good health – nor in very good spirits. I can see no end to this infernal war, my appointment may send me to any part of the state So I do not know when I will see you – or Springhill. I want you to get my business in as good a shape as you can – if possible to collect – let no one loose – tell Dr. Newman if he does not pay that bank debt if ever I get back I will start a boot factory in his posterior extremity – so enough about business matters. I saw all of the boys not long ago they were all in good health. did not know nor care where they were going – Springfield presents rather a gloomy appearances, every house nearly has been converted into a Hospital. The wounded are generally well. there has been a great many amputations. I have taken off a good many legs and arms – untill I am sick and tired – I have heard nothing from home since I left We get nothing to drink d—m little to eat here I got a fine mule from a duchman – may get some more – Give my love to Mary and the little ones – respects to inquiring friends and tell my enemies to go to hell –

Yours fraternally of
O. A. Williams
Asst. Surgeon
Genl Hospital
Missouri State Guard

J. S. Willson

P. S. I saw Ira yesterday. He was well. So was Monroe Ware.

Source: History Museum for Springfield-Greene County, Springfield, Missouri.

Messages In This Thread

Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.
Re: Jennison & Morgan Co., MO info.