Charleston South Carolina

Biography of John Congreve

John Congreve, born in Waterford County, Ireland, in 1827, has been a prominent figure in the lumber industry of Southern California, notably as the general manager of the Riverside branch of the Pioneer Lumber and Mill Company since 1887. His career began at sea before he transitioned to merchant work in the Southern States. Throughout the Civil War, he remained a strong Union supporter. After establishing successful lumberyards in Los Angeles and Colton, he joined Riverside, contributing significantly to the city’s economic development. Congreve is also active in the local Masonic community.

Register of St. Philip’s Parish, South Carolina

This is a collection of birth records from St. Philip’s Parish in South Carolina, beginning in 1711. It documents births in chronological order, providing the names of the parents, the date of birth, and sometimes additional information like the time of birth or whether the child was baptized. The records highlight the demographics of the parish during the 18th century, showcasing the names, family structures, and even the occasional instances of births outside of marriage.

Biography of Rev. James R. W. Snellwood

The Reverend James R.W. Sellwood was born on June 21, 1808, in Cornwall, England, and emigrated to America in 1833. He married Elizabeth H. Dawe in 1837 and had five children. Ordained in 1856, he and his family faced peril while traveling to Oregon through Panama due to a violent riot. Arriving in Portland, he worked at St. Paul’s Church in Salem for over nine years and later held various missionary roles until his health declined in his later years.

Black Oak Soldiers’ Relief Association Minutes

The Black Oak Soldiers Relief Association, formed in August 1861, was dedicated to supporting Confederate soldiers through sewing and provision contributions. Led by President Mrs. Morton Waring, the association produced significant quantities of clothing and sent financial aid and supplies to hospitals and soldiers throughout the Civil War. Despite challenges, the women continued their efforts, including providing food for prisoners and caring for wounded soldiers. Their work exemplified dedication, with records detailing the multitude of items crafted and aid sent until the war’s end.

Charleston Wayside Hospital and Soldiers Depot

The Charleston Wayside Hospital and Soldiers Depot was established to receive soldiers arriving by train, offering essential refreshments and medical care. Citizens were called upon to donate supplies and services, which included everything from food to hospital materials. The hospital quickly organized to accommodate sixty patients, thanks to numerous contributions from the community, particularly women. As the need grew, additional facilities, including a former car factory, were repurposed to care for sick and wounded soldiers during the ongoing conflict.

Charleston, South Carolina and the Civil War

In the turbulent atmosphere of Charleston leading up to the Civil War, excitement and fervor enveloped the populace. Young men prepared for battle, while women and children supported the war effort, creating uniforms and patriotic items. As secession became imminent, Charleston’s citizens united in their beliefs, determined to defend their state. The firing on Fort Sumter marked the beginning of conflict, and the community rallied around their soldiers. However, as the war progressed, the city faced immense hardships, culminating in its eventual fall and subsequent upheaval as Union troops occupied Charleston.

Report of the Work of the Women of South Carolina During the Confederate War

In December 1898, a committee of the Daughters of the Confederacy in South Carolina was formed to document the contributions of women during the Confederate War. Members included Mrs. Smythe, Mrs. Evans, and Mrs. Williams. Despite incomplete data due to limited responses and scarce wartime records, the committee’s efforts highlighted women’s critical roles in home support, hospital aid, and soldier relief activities. Their work was evident from the early days of the conflict, showing a commitment to aid and morale through various contributions and efforts.

South Carolina Women in the Confederacy

Carlo Botta, in his History of the War for Independence, praised the women of South Carolina for their remarkable bravery during the American Revolution, emphasizing their dedication to liberty. He remarked that these women, celebrated as “Rebel women,” played a critical role in sustaining the fight for freedom. The post serves as an introduction to the contributions of South Carolina women during the Civil War, highlighting their efforts in providing essential support, from making banners to ensuring soldiers received necessary supplies.