Monday, December 31, 2018

A Monroe, N.C., "Y" Girl in England, Dec. 31, 1918

From the Monroe Journal, Dec. 31, 1918. The first part of Lura Heath's story about traveling from New York City to England is at https://ruralnchistory.blogspot.com/2018/12/triangle-girl-lura-heath-writes-of.html

After Spending a Day or So in Liverpool Misses Heath and Lee Continued their Journey to London. . . Converse With a “Sure Nuff” Southern Negro

Dear Papa and Folks at Home:

Even though I am now across the Atlantic, here in England, I have not forgotten that to-day 52 years ago you came into the world and though it is too late to write a lengthy message, I wanted to begin it to-night, so as to wish that you may have many happy returns and that you will make all kinds of good resolutions and to say that you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers, and I do trust that all will go well during my long absence from home, and as this letter will in all probability not reach you till about  Christmas Eve, in the language of Nixon Waterman:

“Here’s a greeting to you Dad,
Just to tell you for a father, way back yonder:
And the older that I grow
Then the more I come to know
That the ties which bind our lives
Are growing fonder.”

Just as I was leaving the club house in New York, your letter came, and you may know that I left my native shores in better spirit, because of news from home—I am afraid that I just missed one from Mama, as I almost know one from her was on the way, but hope it will be forwarded by the New York office and that all of you have sent letters on to me. I want you to write me often, not short notes, but real letters—when you get down to business, you can do it and I shall expect them.

To-night at the dock, I wish that you could have seen the demonstration of feeling on the part of all—the deafening yells for the returning English officers and soldiers, then they gave them in return—a general feeling of thanksgiving for a safe voyage, then a grand shaking of hands, and “good byes.” We were met by Y.M. men and women who managed matters in a most efficient manner—none of our baggage to bother with—then a ride on the “Overhead” (elevated), then a ride on a “tram” (double-decked bus) to the Adelphi hotel which is the finest in England, so one of the English Majors told us. We enjoyed our dinner so much, as it had somewhat a different flavor to that served on the boat coming across. It being Sunday night, the hotel was crowded, and truly, you would have thought that you were in one of the magnificent hotels of New York as there were so many American officers and it appears to be their headquarters. We were waiting outside the dining room when some of the Englishmen from the ‘Orontez’ came up. They were most courteous, and even the Colonel himself was busied with having us soon seated—they became hosts in a way, and said that they were so well treated in America that they wanted to return some of the kindnesses shown them. Before we could get anything to eat, we had to sign a card stating our purpose for being there and that we hadn’t had meat in the hotel before that meal. Dessert is sugarless and all drinks too. Fruit is too expensive to serve. After dinner, we all came out into the lounge to hear the music and watch the women smoke! I only saw two or three men in the lounge in civilian clothes and they had wound chevrons on their sleeves and not but one man in the dining room except in uniform.

Monday, November 25th—I certainly did enjoy the soft downy bed and pillows last night and would have enjoyed them longer had I known I would be staying here all day. We were told last evening to be ready to leave to-day at 2 o’clock, so hoping to have a peep at Liverpool we got up real early, and just after breakfast were advised that we would be here till to-morrow some time, so we spent the morning in the museum, in the public square walking around, then had lunch at the Y.M.C.A. canteen, there we talked with some happy soldiers and sailors who were here on their way home. We hurried back to the hotel to be informed that we would leave here at 11 to-morrow, and could do as we pleased during the afternoon. At Knotty Ashe, a suburb, is one of the biggest American camps (“Rest Camps”), so we decided that we would like to see it. The car ride was through an interesting residence section and we gathered a fair idea of the homes and gardens these people have. We were graciously received at several of the huts by the men and women secretaries, but more so by the men themselves. This camp is brim full of American boys on their way home, and when many groups of them spied us, they yelled –“From God’s Country.” Many of them have never been to France, but seem anxious to be getting home. They asked many questions about New York and every where, and in each hut, one of the men called out the states we represented, and the boys responded seemingly so happy to talk with some one from their same State. On the car going out a soldier began talking who turned out to be from Virginia and he personally conducted the crowd. He seemed so glad to see we Southerners and I talked with quite a lot. In spite of the drizzly mist and black mud we enjoyed the trip immensely. After going to several huts, at most of which we were served hot cocoa and cakes, we went to one hospital in which I discovered a negro from Charlotte and another typical “cotton patch” boy from “way down in Georgy” who said, “Yesm, I cum fromGeorgy and I ain’t been no fudder dan here and I don’t want to go no fudder—I would reether go back Souf to my old home”—at about this time many negro soldiers began to congregate around me, one of whom was a very typical cold black greasy faced fellow with the whites of his eyes quite in evidence whose beautiful white teeth appeared like miniature tombstones, who at the first opportunity, gave me the old time bow and pulled off his cap and with a broad grin on his face said,

“Bless de Lord, dese white folks look like home—soon I laid my eyes on you I knowed you was from some where Souf,” and to the question as to whether he too had been at the front, he promptly said: “No m’am, thank God—we was all ‘specting to be sent but got in good spirits soon as we heard that Uncle Sam had ordered many nigger regiments to the front lines and we knowed right den dat somefin was guine to be doing and sho enough the Germans had to come to de armisstiss and since den, you know Miss, dat dere has been a secession of hosterilties and I am sho we will all be soon sent home.” Knowing the negro as I do, I could have spent an hour very pleasantly with them but limited time would not admit.

In talking to some of our own soldiers, they stated that it was very amusing to watch the native Englishman looking on and listening to our pure Southern negroes, in their drills, antics and inimitable songs.

One soldier I talked to said that they had almost nothing to eat for a while and that he had known four or five boys to smoke alternately from one cigarette—think of it!

It seems that the American camps are to be cleared out in England as soon as possible and the camps to be turned over to England for her own troops’ use until demobilization. I was astonished and regret to know that the greatest degree of friendliness and brotherly feeling does not exist between the American and English soldiers. I am hoping that this is true only “Over Here,” but as we were coming home we talked with two American officers, one of whom was from Edenton, North Carolina, and the other from Easley, South Carolina, who was a graduate of the Citadel at Charleston, both were in the 30th Division and at the front—the Lieutenant from South Carolina, said the American privates like the Australians and the Canadian best, but that he believes and hopes the unfriendliness of Americans and Britishers will all be overcome. These two men got up, took off their gloves, and shook hands with me right in the car when they heard that I was from the “Sunny South.” The Citadel graduate was wounded, a bayonet stab in the neck and just out of the hospital. He, too, said that they lost heavily when he was in the fight.

I have seen soldiers and soldiers every where, in fact almost every man is in some kind of uniform—so many of them are wearing pretty blue trousers and bright red ties—I made enquiry, and all Allied wounded while recuperating, wear that combination, which with a white shirt seems so patriotic with the red, white and blue in evidence.

I am tired and have a bad headache, so will go to bed early tonight.

Tuesday, November 26th—We enjoyed our good soft beds again last night, for no telling what a contrasting type we may be sleeping in soon in France. We were only up in time to get our bags packed, have breakfast, pay bills and get to the station at 11. In this hotel, all of the employees are women and children with one or two exceptions—two unusual things, we had linen sheets and electrically wound clocks in every room—elevators everywhere—they are called in England “lifts.” Women conductresses on all cars. Another English expression “Enquiry” instead of our Information Bureau. In our rooms were instructions about pulling the curtains before turning on the lights, penalty for not observing the same—“Exhibition of Lights” was their way of saying it.

We traveled like “elites” from Liverpool to London in first class Salon cars, in which there were only four compartments to a coach with chairs, one couch and tables just like a sitting room. It was grey and misty outside and the smoke form the engine didn’t rise quickly, consequently practically all view of the country was obscured, yet at times we did get peeps at the thatched roofed houses and the beautiful green pastures with large numbers of grazing sheep. Everything is much greener here than at home this time of year, saw many gardens with cabbage, etc., all looking as if they would be eatable. There were 59 girls and women on the train, so we spent some of the time getting acquainted.
Many came in on other steamers than ours and it reminded me of a class reunion to meet some whom I had met in New York City in the several conferences. One of the ladies said that we should be glad that we didn’t leave New York City during the epidemic, for on several boats four or five “Y” girls died and were buried at sea, so I am beginning to think that all that has happened was for the best. We had a lot of fun jumping off the train at the various stops to purchase our lunch, as there are few dining cars in England. Food is expensive, fruit especially, think of it—a shilling (24 cents) for a medium sized apple, and bananas are also a shilling each. We spent some time telling each other of the typical English expressions we had noticed. In the compartment we found this—“Five pounds ($25) provided for anyone who stops the train unnecessarily.”

We arrived in London about 4:30 p.m. and it was good and dark, misty, rainy, dim lights, much like you would imagine this city to be in reading about it. The “Y” people met us and we were escorted to the Imperial Hotel on Russell Square. I find the city to be very much congested, so only 22 could be assigned rooms, the rest of us are to sleep in the “Turkish Baths,” but we younger ones think that will be an interesting experience and having enjoyed the luxury of the Adelphi at Liverpool, won’t complain at all. Some of us have just had dinner at the Holborn restaurant, one of the noted ones of the city, but could not be served any meat, which means other than ham or bacon, nor anything but a small “dash” of sugar, but you know that I am not a crank about what I eat, so I enjoy everything—if others have done without, I can too—the baths referred to are ready so I will go to my little cot by saying good night, with the thought that you so often repeat at home and which you have told was the custom of your Mother—“Sweet rest and pleasant dreams.”

Wednesday night, November 27th—Here I sit in the Imperial Hotel, London, England, and can’t realize it at all and the night before Thanksgiving too. Fortunately we secured a room to-day so are more comfortable than last night but even the hard cot at the baths didn’t prevent me from sleeping well. At breakfast a Canadian Doctor sat opposite me, so we had a chat. He had been at the front for nearly a year when the armistice came and has been here for two weeks leave. He says that we must see the battlefields of France, as much of them as we can, for everyone should in order to fully realize the terribleness of it all. He says that the only Hun to consider is the dead Hun. The most horrible thing he related to me was that the test for prisoners to be forced to work is that you could reach around the arm above the elbow with thumb and forefinger touching—imagine a strong man so emaciated as that forced to hard labor. Two of his Doctor friends were prisoners themselves and related this and other terrible punishments to him, and furthermore that many of the prisoners fell dead at night upon returning from a day’s toil.

At 10:30 we met at headquarters to be advised that Paris at present was so congested with men on leave, who for the first time have been allowed to go thee, that we can’t possibly be sent over for 10 days unless vital changes take place.

King George and two sons went over yesterday. We will perhaps have an opportunity to see London and surrounding country in the meantime, and hope to go to see Major Peck in Cambridge. When the meeting adjourned, I met up with Miss Mills of our conference who has been in London for three weeks so she offered to pilot me around. First we walked along Southampton Row, Kingsway, etc., then to Cavinish Square to have my passport stamped by the American Consulate office. By the way, as we were walking along in front of a man’s furnishing store, were polished brass plates “Heath.” I looked further and the owner’s name was “Henry Heath”—my mind immediately reverted to “Our Henry” at Matthews and I was tempted to go in and announce myself. We strolled all along Regent Street, corresponding to Fifth Avenue of New York and I was much surprised to see so many beautiful dresses, suits, etc., in all the show windows. Practically every man we met was in uniform or had a brass plate showing disability discharge from a certain regiment. It was most interesting to note all of the various insignia, for they wear a different one for every organization and each part of it. Many of the officers and privates were adorned with several wound stripes and war crosses and too we saw many, many on crutches, and many with only one arm or leg and faces terribly disfigured and nearly all the older civilians had on black arm bands. I realize already that we Americans know nothing of the sorrows and horrors of this world struggle, and anyone in America other than those wearing a gold star ought to be thoroughly ashamed to have even thought to have uttered a complaint.
We stopped at a little restaurant on Regent and had waffles and syrup and a piece of apple pie for lunch, then walked on to Pickadilly Circle where seven streets converge, a most interesting place to me, then on to the Mall a long wide boulevard which runs from Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar square. All along on display are German guns, marked as to when, where and by whom they were captured—on the way to the Mall, as we were going through Waterloo Place, we were fortunate enough to see the change of guards at White Hall, an old historic building. These men are mounded on beautiful black horses, and they are much befeathered, bearmed and bebooted—red coats one day, blue coats the next, with white riding breeches. Next we went into Westminister Abbey and sat for a time during a service, then we had a bus ride back up to “The Old Curiosity Shop” immortalized by Dickens. By this time night was overtaking us, so hurried to a place to secure Emergency Ration Cards, which we were required to do so on account of being in government service for an indefinite period. These cards contain coupons and are cut out each time you make a purchase of sugar or meat. Will send one of these home as they are interesting. On the way to the hotel, we stepped into an Italian restaurant and had an egg omelet, fried potatoes, butter beans, toast and a delicious marmalade and it was the best meal I have had since leaving home, good and hot and I shall patronize it often. We are required to take breakfast at our hotel but the other two meals were we please. Later we went to Eagle Hut, the largest canteen in the world, which is located on The Strand (Broadway of London). It is wonderfully arranged and artistically decorated, has large reading and writing rooms with large open fires, billiard tables, huge dining room and mammoth concert hall for all amusements. The decorations evidence that it is distinctively American.

I have just happened to good luck. One of the Y.M.C.A. women also waiting here has an invitation to go on a tour to-morrow and has asked me to accompany her.

I find myself to-night wising two wishes. One, that I could be home with you all to-morrow for Thanksgiving, and another that all of you could be here with me, then we could be so thankful and happy. Good night—pleasant dreams—much love.

Devotedly,
Lura

Sunday, December 30, 2018

Sgt. Miley and Pvts. Rhoads, Kapp Have Died, Dec. 31, 1918

From The Commonwealth, Scotland Neck, N.C., Dec. 31, 1918

Our Casualties

Washington, Dec. 31—The two casualty lists issued by the War Department today contain the names of 705 men of whom 16 are North Carolinians, as follows:

Killed in Action

Private A.F. Rhoads of North Wilkesboro

Died of Accident

Sergeant Hugh L. Miley of Davidson

Died of Disease

Private Sid V. Kapp, Rural Hall

Wounded Severely

Corporal Willey H. Williams of Washington
Private Oker Keen of Coats

Private Edwin F. Mitchell of Burlington
Private Arthur Pearce of Mapleville

Private Joseph Hancock of Durham
Private Mike Watts of Taylorsville

Private Mack Burgess of Whitakers
Private Roy W. Penny of Apex

Private Ben Rhoads of Williamston
Private James H. Rogers of Dillsboro

Private Fletcher Stevens of Vineland
Private Alexander Gates of Timberlake
Private Robert Golden of Spray

Negro Troops To Parade in Kinston Tomorrow, Dec. 31, 1918

From The Commonwealth, Scotland Neck, N.C., Dec. 31, 1918

Negro Troops to Parade Tomorrow

By Associated Press

Kinston, N.C., Dec. 31—For the first time since the war between the States negroes in military uniform will parade through Kinston’s streets Wednesday and they will get a reception far different from that accorded the darkies in bluecoats who in small numbers came into the town during the ‘60s. The Emancipation Day program here calls for a procession to be headed by discharged and furloughed men in khaki. More than 100 will be in line. They will carry no arms, of course.

Hertford County Agent W.E. Gaither's Wishes for a Successful New Year

From the Hertford County Herald, Dec. 27, 1918

Holiday Greetings from County Farm Demonstration Agent

To the farmers and others who have supported the work of your County Farm Demonstration Agent during the past year and assisted him so well in making his work a success.

He takes this means of expressing his keen appreciation of the work of the farmers, Boys’ and Girls’ Club Members and the banks of the County in their efforts to increase the food production, the sale of War Savings Stamps, Liberty Bonds, Red Cross funds and the many other things done to contribute something toward winning the war.

This great task has been finished. “The World is a decent place to live in,” and we must keep it so.

There is now before us a task that is not spectacular but which will show whether we are sincere. 

That task is to help feed the rest of the world.

Hoping that your County Agent will be able to help you in this work and continue to receive the hearty support that he has received this year, he extends to everyone a sincere wish for a prosperous and happy New Year.

--W.E. Gaither, County Agent

Saturday, December 29, 2018

New York City Celebrates Navy with Parade, Dec. 26, 1918




Victory Parade for Navy to be Held in New York City, December 1918

From The Daily Times, Wilson, N.C., Dec. 24, 1918

U.S. Fleet Is Here. . . Big Parade Thursday

New York, Dec. 24—America’s great armada and her 25,000 sea fighters are expected home from the war today and Father Knickerbocker and Uncle Sam have prepared for a celebration that is expected to outdo in magnificence any naval demonstration ever held in New York.

From the minute the battleship Pennsylvania, the flagship of Admiral Henry T. Mayo, commander in chief of the fleet, passes through Ambrose Channel ahead of the procession of dreadnaughts, destroyers, torpedo boats, submarines, gunboats, and cruisers, at dawn today, until the evening of December 26, the American jackies and their officers in lavish fashion.

Secretary Daniels and other government notables aboard the Presidential yacht Mayflower, anchored off the Statue of Liberty, will review the flotilla as it steams proudly into New York Bay and up the Hudson river after nearly 18 months of foreign service. Every ship—and there will be 21 dreadnaughts in line in additional to the scores of smaller Warcraft—will be gaily festooned with the colors of the allies. At night thousands of incandescent electric light bulbs will outline the vessels and their names in color.

After the last of the ships has passed the reviewing point the Mayflower accompanied by city officials aboard other craft will follow them up the Hudson and review the vessels at anchor, steaming around the fleet. The Mayflower will then drop anchor at the foot of 92nd Street, Fifth Avenue and 23rd Street to the Hudson river and back to their ships. In course of the parade which will be without arms, and past the city’s cheering throngs, the sailors will tread jubilantly under the great Victory Arch at Madison Square which later it is purposed to transform into a permanent memorial.

Altogether the picture of the American fleet resting at anchor practically from the Battery to Harlem will be most imposing and especially at night when every turret, mast and gun will be ablaze with light. The flagship Pennsylvania will be designated by an illuminated pennant with a blue field and four scintillating silver stars. The flagships of Rear Admirals Hugh Rodman and T.S. Rodgers will be indicated by pennants showing two silver stars.

Wounded Soldiers Aboard Zeelandia Land in Newport News, Dec. 24, 1918

From The Daily Times, Wilson, N.C., Dec. 24, 1918

Wounded Land at Newport News, Va.

Newport News, Va., Dec. 24--Among the wounded who landed here yesterday from the transport Zeelandia are a number of men who a few weeks ago were conspicuous in news dispatches from the battle front in France. 

One of them, Major Charles L. Sheridan of Bozeman, Montana, whose battalion of the 128th infantry, 332nd division, actually was in battle 50 days and acting as support under fire the last hundred days of fighting. Major Sheridan was wounded five times but as he received two each on as many occasions he wears only three wound stripes. In addition to having been recommended for the Congressional Medal of Honor, Major Sheridan has been awarded the distinguished service medal, the Belgian war cross and the croix de guerre. It is said he is the fourth man thus far to be recommended for the congressional medal. His battalion participated in the fighting at Alsace, Chateau Thierry, Vezilly, Fismes, Chemin des Dames, Juyigny and half dozen others.

Captain F.N. Insignor of Spokane, who fought in many of the battles with Major Sheridan, wears two wound stripes and a croix de guerre. Chaplain O’Relly, 38th division, who is reported to be exploded under his horse, killing the animal. He has been recommended for a distinguished service cross His home is in New York but for a number of years he was a professor at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.

Others of the wounded officers who have been decorated or citied for bravery included: Major Carroll, Ozark, Ala., Rainbow Division; Major Stuart Cramer, Charlotte, N.C., who commanded the first American Tank Battalion; Major Thomas Barrett, Augusta, Ga., said to be the youngest major in the American Expeditionary Force; and Capt. Shelton Pitney, Boston, son of Associate Justice Pitney of the U.S. Supreme Court.

North Carolinians Debark in New York City, Dec. 24, 1918

From The Daily Times, Wilson, N.C., Dec. 24, 1918

Big Transport Brings Back Several Thousand Troops. . . North Carolinians Arrive

New York, Dec. 24—The transport George Washington, which took President Wilson to France, and the steamship Cedric, arrived here yesterday, bringing 6,025 men from overseas in time to celebrate Christmas in the United States.

The Cedric from Liverpool with 65 officers and 2,168 enlisted men docked first and was accorded a rousing reception, but the welcome to the George Washington, which arrived an hour later from Brest, was perhaps the most enthusiastic the city yet has given a returning transport.

The George Washington’s 968 sick and wounded, contrary to custom were in possession of their honorable discharge papers when the transport landed. They received them last night with cigarettes and candy at a novel Christmas celebration. As the men were dozing off for their last seep aboard, the ship’s quartette entered and roused them by singing Christmas carols and “Home, Sweet Home.” The lights then were flashed on and a member of the crew attired as Santa Clause distributed the discharges.

Col. Halsted Dorey of Washington, wearing four wound stripes, was one of the officers on the George Washington. He was gassed twice and wounded in the leg. Before sailing for France he commanded the first Plattsburg training camp for business men.

Lieut. George W. Buryear of Memphis, Tenn., who escaped Germany by swimming the Rhine, after being in five German camps, was another passenger.

Lieut,. Edgar Boligney of New Orleans, aviator who enlisted with the foreign legion in 1914 and later was transferred to the American service, was another passenger. Lieut. Bolginey’s plane was shot down in Albania last July from a height of 7,000 feet, he said, but he escaped without a scratch.

Friday, December 28, 2018

William Smyre One of the Lucky 28, Dec. 28, 1918

From the Hickory Daily Record, Saturday, Dec. 28, 1918

William A. Smyre Describes Fighting

The following letter was written by William A. Smyre, a private in Co. D, 119th infantry, 2nd N.C. regiment, 30th division, to his mother, Mrs. Bettie Smyre of Newton:

Beaumont, France
Nov. 28, 1918
Dear Mother:

I will write you a few lines to let you know that I am well and I am looking to start back to the good old U.S. now any day. I have been in every fight that the 30th division was in. We went into battle on the morning of September 29 and we broke the Hindenburg line. This was the greatest trench that old Fritzie had. He had cement dugouts 90 feet deep and would hold about 300 men, but we took them from him. It sure was a sad sight to see your comrades shot down right at your side. We had 260 men when we went into battle and the first battle we were in we lost 23 men, and the last time we came out of the trenches, we had only 28 men and I was one of the lucky 28. I have gone through it all and have not got a scratch from a shell or a bullet. When the war stopped on November 11, I was in the machine gun squad and the only one left out of eight men. I have been in Belgium most of my time since I have been over here, and this war sure has taught me a lesson. We had to stay in dugouts and old Fritzy shooting at us. We sure did have to hug to the ground at times. I will close and try to finish my story when I get home.


Half a Million U.S. Soldiers Already Demobilized, Dec. 28, 1918

From the Hickory Daily Record, Saturday, Dec. 28, 1918

Demobilization Is Proceeding Rapidly

By the Associated Press

Washington, Dec. 28—More than 1,100,000 American soldiers at home and abroad have been designated for demobilization since the armistice was signed. General March gave the figures today as 937,000 men in home units to be discharged and 168,000 an 6,800 officers assigned by General Pershing for early convoy home from France.

This includes men already discharged and those who have already landed from France. To date the figures show 533,334 men and 35,409 officers actually discharged. Complete reports for the week just ended are expect to raise the total to at least 100,000.

If Flu Doesn't Worsen, Hickory Schools to Reopen First Monday in 1919

From the Hickory Daily Record, Saturday, Dec. 28, 1918

Schools to Open Week from Monday

Unless the influenza situation grows worse, the city schools will reopen on Monday, January 6. This has not been definitely determined, but it is generally agreed that the schools may resume work on that date.

Although there are a few cases reported in Hickory, there are not nearly as many as a few weeks ago, and it is believed the disease is gradually disappearing. In the last few days some cases have developed, but medical men expect the flu to remain all the winter, though not in as severe a form as earlier in the season.

It is hoped that when the schools reopen, there will be nothing to prevent their continuous session for four or five months.

'Triangle Girl' Lura Heath Writes of Crossing to England, 1918

From The Monroe Journal, Dec. 27, 1918

Miss Heath Tells of Crossing From New York to England

Miss Lura Heath, daughter of Capt and Mrs. W.C. Heath, has arrived safely in England had has written to her parents telling of her experiences while crossing the Atlantic. Miss Heath’s letters will be somewhat in the form of a diary. Union County has three girls in France, who besides Miss Heath are Miss Pauline Robinson, the daughter of Mrs. R.N. Nisbet, a trained nurse with the Brenizer unit, and Miss Annie Lee, the daughter of Mr. J.H. Lee.

Misses Heath and Lee are in the same service, canteen workers in the Y.M.C.A. huts, or usually referred to as the “Triangle Girls.” They were especially trained for this service at Y.M.C.A. headquarters in New York city for two months prior to sailing. We quote Miss Heath’s letter in full:

On the Irish Sea, Somewhere between Ireland and Scotland, Saturday, November 23rd, 1918.

Dear Folks at home: I believe that the last letter I sent to you was written in the wee small hours of the morning of Nov. 13th, just prior to my leaving the U.S.A., of which you were aware, due to the telegram that I had sent. At the time that I was writing I was not at all sure that I would get away on this boat, for at 6 o’clock Tuesday afternoon my passport was out of place. After having waited about two hours at the British Consulate office, I was advised that my passport had been sent up to the men’s Y.M.C.A. headquarters, but they stated it was not there. In spite of all that I was told to pack and be all ready and report at the Women’s Department at 9 o’clock sharp on Wednesday. Obedient soldier that I was, I obeyed orders and when I arrived my passport was thee. I didn’t even stop to ask where it was or anything, for I had to have a requisition for French and English money, go over and wait to get it, then go way down to the Custom House on Bowling Green for a war zone pass, without which I could not sail—then back to the piers. I should have gotten a French Visa, but didn’t have time, so I will get that in England. All the others were supposed to be aboard at 10, but by special permit, I could board as late as 11, and I just did make it. You may rest assured that I made every effort as Annie and I were so anxious to be together as long as possible and even hope to be assigned to the same work in France.

The steamer that we are on, ‘Orontez,’ is an English boat and formerly plied between Liverpool and Australia and utilized during the war as a transport and recently has made two trips to New York for American troops. This ship is not very large and quite changed naturally, being used as a troop ship—no deck chairs, no lights, port holes closed and they seem to be taking all precautions. Soldiers were supposed to be coming in this trip, but after real peace came, the order was cancelled and the party on board consists of 25 Y.M. women, eight of whom will stay in England; 46 Y.M.C.A. secretaries; 24 knights of Columbus men; 2 Red Cross men and about a dozen and a half British officers, members of the British Mission to America, who have been in the “States” as they say, from three months, some of them, to a year or more, having been located in our various camps as instructors. Besides this, there are about 70 British sergeants and members of the Royal Flying Corps over in the second cabin. So you see, the boat being small and a few aboard, the trip has in a way been like a big house party.

Quite a number were sick at first, I included, for we have had rough weather most of the time—grey drizzly days, but later most of the passengers gained their sea legs. On account of there being a comparatively small crowd, we all became better acquainted and in consequence it has been a pleasant voyage. We have had good “eats,” the shop officers are quite courteous and now that the trip to England is about over, I am glad, so glad to be getting nearer our long waited destination, and yet, there is always a feeling of regret when a crowd of people break up for their respective duties and pleasures.

We all had an idea that we would likely come over in peace times, but we were ushered out of New York harbor by balloon and airplanes and have been convoyed all the way over. U.S. sub-chasers came out with us about two days and during that time we were required to keep life belts with us at all times; indeed we were happy to have them, as they serve as a cushion to sit on.

In the convoy there are nine boats; one U.S. cruiser which went back yesterday; several large and small transports, all together bringing over about 25,000 soldiers. In addition, there were one or two chasers. Some time during last night, four or five English sub-chasers joined us and they have been guarding us quite closely today—afraid of mines and torpedoes still I suppose. So you can see that even though peace has been declared, in a way, we didn’t miss all the thrills of crossing the Atlantic as during war time.

We expected to get in today and get to London for tomorrow, but now we won’t get in until some time in the night and it will depend on military authorities as to our getting off the boat before Monday.

We have slept late in the mornings, taken naps after lunch, then tea at 4:30, then after dinner, many evenings in the music room, we have had entertainment of some kind. Among the Y.M. women, the K. of C. man, who has been a concert singer and has a beautiful voice, several men readers, one Y.M. woman reader, a pianist and a violinist, the latter two sisters; then among the Britishers there is talent—ne officer, who is a professional singer, two in fact, and several of them play the piano quite well. One girl plays the Eukelele, one the mandolin and you can well imagine that all this together with singing of popular and folk songs has been a great asset and helped every one to while away the evenings most pleasantly.

Two evenings all of us when over to the second cabin with the soldiers and there was some fine talent discovered—among them were readers, impersonators, singers and pianists; among them too are some Oxford graduates one of whom recited many of Kipling’s poems beautifully. In talking with them you soon discover that they evidently like America very much and many of them have already determined to go back to America just as soon as possible. It seems too that that many of the officers feel the same way, in fact, a few have married American girls while in the U.S.A. It has been very interesting to be with these officers—many of them are quite young seemingly, and others distinguished in appearance. Many of them have been wounded, and to hear of the battle of the Marne, Mons, etc., from those who have actually been on the front is a treat. A number of them related their personal experiences. One captain who had many wounds, with 18 others, was in an explosion. All were killed except himself. He is now in a terribly shell shocked condition and in all probability will never be any better. The colonel in command of the mission has a crushed leg from an airplane accident. The captain, who was a professional singer, told these interesting facts.

I have ascertained that there were only 750,000 American troops actually in the fighting line and that our casualties would not have been so high but for the fact that Americans were rash and impetuous in their overwhelming bravery. He said the last weeks of fighting were very hard and severe, England alone losing 30,000 a week, and that since last June her casualties had been 900,000. He spoke of having seen two English prisoners, their chests, stomachs and backs literally covered with dog bites. It seems that they were driven to labor, when wounded or well, but those German prison dogs.
One old gentlemanly major with whom Annie and I have talked quite often, is most charming and of such splendid spirit, though all of them possess that, has given us his address and insists that we come to Cambridge to see him and his family before we go back to America. He and others were in the Texas, Georgia and South Carolina camps. All of these officers are a fine representation of England.

Sunday, Nov. 24 (morning)—Just here I went down to dinner, with intentions of spending my evening hours finishing my chat with you, but we had another evening of entertainment. Wish so much that you could have shared the pleasures. It was wonderful to see how happy these Englishmen were. They entered into the pleasures with bubbling spirit, all of them who could did their bit—at the close, “Star Spangled Banner,” “God Save the King,” then “Auld Lang Syne.” It was 11:45 when the concert was over, then all went on deck, spied the signal lights of “Old England,” then had another spirited and hilarious demonstration of feeling.

The moon and stars were shining brightly, something unusual here at this season of the year, so you can imagine that none retired very early. When we went in we were anchored, waiting for a pilot and some time in the night we got in near Liverpool, but fog was so dense we came back out and now are anchored at the mouth of a river and will go in some time this afternoon. We came the Northern route, up around Ireland, then down past the Isle of Man. It is quite clear this morning and with the sea birds flying all about and sailing vessels dotted here and there, altogether make up a pretty picture. Every one seems happy over the prospects of landing. We do not know whether we will get out of Liverpool today or not.

Last Sunday morning the Y.M. held a service in the music room and another just after breakfast this morning, but many of us were packing. At present most every one are having a stroll on deck. I have had the surprise of my life in that it hasn’t been cold enough even on the ocean for me to wear woolen underwear, but realize that this will come in all right when we strike the chilling cold of France. The pilot brought some newspapers aboard and you may know they were received with joy, for nearly two weeks we have had no news except small wireless notice. We do know that the allied troops are now occupying German territory, that the Kaiser has fled and that the German navy has surrendered, also that Germany is begging to be fed and that American camps are being demobilized, so you see that we are not entirely out of civilization.

I am now beginning to realize that the very best Christmas present I can have from home will be some letters. I hope all of you have been starting some on the way during these past two weeks. I have no idea how long we will be in England, perhaps a week or longer, although I am anxious to get into France and assume my duties as soon as possible. It is my intention to send some messages to all of the boys form Union county, whose addresses I have, as soon as I reach Paris, so if by any chance they should be there or near we would not miss an opportunity to meet them.

I know that I am not going to have time to keep a diary so have decided to write some each day, then forward home once or twice each week, but I want you to keep the letters intact as I will want them on my return some day as reminders of my experiences.

Sunday night, 12:15—Just here I was called to get my baggage ready, so had to lock up my pad—this was about 12 o’clock but we really didn’t get off the boat until 5—had lunch and then the custom officers came aboard, then a showing of passports, etc.—just prior to coming ashore, representatives of the Y.M.C.A. met us, both men and women—we were escorted to the Adelphi Hotel and expect to go to London tomorrow at 2 o’clock.

As we have been told nothing as to censorship, I have written as I would ordinarily, so don’t know whether anything I have stated will be cut out or not—haven’t meant any harm, certainly.
Annie and I have both had hot baths, laundered, talked over things in general, and now hope to have a good quiet rest with no tossing or rolling.

Will continue later.

With much love and best wishes for all,
Lura

Thursday, December 27, 2018

Wilson Sailor Write Home to Mother, 1918

From the Daily Times, Wilson, N.C., Dec. 27, 1918. This article doesn't give the name of the mother or the last name of the sailor. 

Letter to His Mother

November 21, 1918
My Dearest mother:

I guess I can tell you what we have been doing over here the last year as the censorship has been raised.

For the last 11 months we have been doing patrol duty and chasing the Huns and today they came out and surrendered to us. One who says the navy has not done anything in this war is certainly wrong, for I think they have done about as much as any bunch of sinners. Just think about it. I was aboard one of the ships that the Germans surrendered to, guess that is a little honor, is it not?

We got on the way last night at 12 o’clock and met the German navy at 9:20, and like all the rest of the Huns they, too, are yellow, and raised the white flag and surrendered to us without firing a shot and we brought them in to one of the English ports, and take it from me they were some ships, but that is all.

We have only sunk one submarine and the way we got that one was one of our propeller blades hit it while it was trying to get into one of our ports by coming in under us. I guess you will read about all of this in the papers before you get this but maybe they will not name the ships that were in it so I thought I would tell you about it. I think we will go to London to parade and some places in France, but one thing I know we will have some celebration over what happened today, for this is the only time in history that any fleet ever came out and surrendered without firing a shot and it will e one day that I will never forget, and I don’t guess the Germans will either, for I know it certainly did hurt them to give over a fleet like they did today, for they gave millions and millions of dollars worth of ships. I can say one thing, the Germans were sure down and out to surrender ships like that without fighting for them. But I don’t care, as long as I had the honor of being on one of the ships that got the Hun.

You can tell everybody at home about this if you want to for it will be in all the papers.

The King of England was aboard yesterday. That makes the second time he has been aboard, and the King of Belgium has been aboard once, so you see we have had a few men of royal blood, as the English call them, aboard this ship, and there is no telling who else will come aboard before this ship goes back to the good old U.S.A.

John Adkins was also out with us but he was on another ship, and Frank Farmer was aboard this ship, and myself, are the only boys from home who helped the Allies to get the German high seas fleet.

When we get back to the States we will be wearing two good charms V-shaped on our arms, which represent one year’s service in foreign waters.

One think I can say is that we certainly have not had a soft job over here for it sure is uncomfortable out in the North Sea at night where you could not tell when you would be hit by a torpedo, and so rough at sea you could not eat anything for 22 hours and could not sleep.

Well, we cove ship tonight when means no sleep for the next 24 hours, which will make 48 hours since I had any sleep. Has the army anything on that?

I do not know but one thing I would like to have now and that is a good homemade and home cooked dinner, but no telling when I will get that.

I will have to close, so give my love to all.

Your son,
Cary

Lt. William Lee With Wildcat Division Writes Home, 1918

From The Dunn Dispatch, Dec. 26, 1918

Lieut. W.C. Lee Went Through Last Days of Fighting Without a Scratch, But Was Gassed Just Before Armistice Was Signed

Letters received by relatives of Lieut. William C. Lee inform them that he passed safely through the big fight overseas. He was with the famous 81st Division (Wildcat Division) which for the past several months fought in Alsace, Vosges, at Verdun and the Argonne Forest. For 48 hours immediately preceding the armistice his regiment advanced in the face of a continual fire of high explosives, gas and shrapnel without food, rest or sleep. This division displayed the highest courage and bravery and showed themselves the equal of any fighting men.

In writing of the last few days of the fighting and his experiences since then Lieut. Lee says:

“As a fighting unit our division cannot be surpassed. The way our fellows advanced in the face of a terrific fire and the bravery and initiative they showed is remarkable. Our casualties were of course heavy for we were on the offensive. However I came through without a scratch but was gassed during the last hour or so. It didn’t seem serious but I suffered much in breathing and was not able to sleep and could eat only liquids for several days.”

He remained with his regiment in the front line trenches until they were relieved by another regiment. 

He was then transferred to a regular army regiment which is in the Army of Occupation. After reaching German soil he developed pneumonia and was nursed by a German woman for several days until a chaplain moved him back to a temporary hospital for American sick which had been established in a famous old chateau or castle in Luxemburg. There were a number of other American officers there. For several days he hovered between life and death being unconscious most of the time. He rallied and at the time of his last letter stated that he expected to be with his regiment on the Rhine by the time that letter reached home.


General Lindsey Writes Mrs. Doll About Her Son, Lt. Jacob Doll, 1918

From the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 26, 1918

General Lindsey Writes Mrs. Doll

A Christmas greeting that was appreciated more than fine gold was the letter Mrs. H.M. Doll opened yesterday morning from Brigadier General J.R. Lindsey, 82d division, who wrote on November 1 in regard to her son, Lieut. Jacob V. Doll, with the request that it was not to be opened until Christmas day. The letter follows:

My dear Mrs. Doll:

I cannot neglect the opportunity of sending you want undoubtedly will be your most appreciated Christmas greetings—viz—confirmation of the fact that Jake has made good in battle, the one point in a soldier’s life that cannot be definitely settled until proven in action. Your boy has decidedly made good and I know that it will touch a mother’s heart to know it. His loyalty and devotion to me, his considerateness of everybody, his innate cheerfulness have all had their influence in making my staff reliable and efficient.

Though a personal aide, his work has been largely detached from personal service. He has originated and developed ways and means in military affairs that have attracted the attention of the higher command; in fact I owe much to him for what success has been achieved by my brigade.

Very sincerely,
J.R. Lindsey, Brig.-Gen.

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Dec. 26 Casualty List Names 7 North Carolinians Dead, 85 Injuried, 2 Missing in Action


From the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 26, 1918

Today’s Casualty List

Washington, Dec. 26—The two army casualty lists issued today show the following names from North Carolina:

Killed in Action

William E. Poole of Asheboro

Died from Wounds

Corp. George W. Brown of Shulls Mills
Corp. Andrew Parish of McCullers

Andrew Best of Goldsboro
Homer Boone of Seaboard

Died of Disease

Corp. William S. Hyatt of Barnsville
Joe Brown of Whiteville

Wounded Severely

Sergt, Jesse Lee Bissett of Middlesex
Corp. Elarus F. Ray of Winston-Salem

Robert L. Biby of Hill
Corp. Owen D. Holmes of Wilmington

Corp. Robert A. Moore of Wilson
Rufus Buchanan of Dillsboro

George P. Styrod of Wilmington
William Reece of Winston-Salem

Avery M. Smith of Mount Holly
Schuyler McK Carpenter of Plott

Dennis T. Horton of Roxboro
Joe M. Parker of Stem

Robert Buck of Goldsboro
Alley B. Young of Henderson

Glaucus W. Lewis of Enfield
Goldie McGhee of Raleigh

Edward W. Osborne of Henlock
Lieut. Earlbert E. Barns of Asheville

Charlie Frank Pulliam of King
Jesse Brannon of Kenley

Wounded, Degree Undetermined

Sergt. Claude Roscoe Nichols of Winston-Salem
Corp. Robert L. Loftin of Handy

William F. Osborne of Plumtree
Roy B. Snydor of Concord

Edward S. Coppedge of Wildon
Jeptha Rice of Chinquapin

James C. Craft of Wilmington
William O. Roberts of Youngsville

John H. McLaughlin of Pembroke
Zeb Bizzell of Winterville

Charles R. Kelly of Spray
William Gardner of Eagle Springs

Paul C. Harris of Elizabeth City
Charlie Henderson of Hendersonville

Corp. Herbert D. Atwood of Greensboro
Corp. Rowland Hale of Rosemary

Riley Goldsmith of Biltmore
Anderson T. Bean of Millsboro

Quincy M Davis of Grayson
Dan W. Forrest of Rocky Mount

George W. Land of Spray
John Lacking Sink of Durham

Hazely V. Britt of Cerro Gorde
William Pink Hester of Belews Creek

James Eddie Skipper of Wilmington
John A. Sluder of Newland

Ira D. Langston of Deep Run
Charlie Maness of Matthews

Joseph D. Porter of North Wilkesboro
Grover L. Marks of Kannapolis

Jack H. Miller of Pinehurst
Brivet J. Hardin of Bostic

James Manuel of Winston-Salem
William P. Ferrell of Weeksville

Fred Newell of Princeton
Absolon L.W. Osborne of Ashland

Harvey E. McLaurin of Fayetteville
William J. Myers of Jennings
Dove Sheehan of Marion

Wounded Slightly

Capt. John P. Reinhardt of Gastonia
Lieut. Ira O. Wortman of Charlotte

Lieut. DeWatt T. Beckham of Henderson
Sergt. Chester Greer of High Point

Corp. Thomas F. Joyner of Raleigh
Mechanic Romie C. Heany of Littleton

James F. Mahay of Porter
Hugh V. Martin of Kernersville

Charles M. Simmons of Francisco
Rubie E. Evans of Rosemary

Joe Warren of Robersonville
Will Dickerson of Spray

John R. McLain of Sparta
Luther White of Shulls Mills

Fred Woodard of Wilson
Isaac M. Jones of Reidsville

Ernest Jones of Raleigh
Raniel Sawyer of Cash Corner

Franklin C. Halyburton of Stony Point
Waverly Murphy of Wilson

Howard Webster of Henrietta
Samuel Jones of Oxford

King Lawter of Mill Spring
Charlie E. Ashworth of Rockingham

Bill Mathis of Bryson City
Larry Jordan of Roanoke Rapids

Missing in Action

Sergt. Carl A. Jackson of Salisbury
Ervin Powell of White Oak


Fred Pool Writes of Journey from Camp Sevier to Hindenburg Line to LeMans After End of War, Dec. 26, 1918

From the Raleigh News & Observer, as reprinted in The Dunn Dispatch, Dec. 26, 1918

“Old Hickory” Troops Began Drive Through Hindenburg Line. . . Fred B. Pool Writes of Entire Journey

Writing from Le-Mans, a small town in Southern France where on November 24th the 30th division was stationed, Fred B. Pool of this city and members of the 60th brigade headquarters of the 30th division, gives an account of the movement of the division from the time the soldiers left Camp Sevier on May 5 until they reached their quarters on November 21. He says the troops hit the famous Hindenburg defense line on the morning of September 29, had broken through at 9 o’clock and had penetrated the system of trenches for three miles by night.

Fred B. Pool is a member of the unit commanded by Maj. Gordon Smith and enlisted in the summer of 1917. He is a son of Mr. Melvin Pool of Raleigh, Route 2, who whom the young man wrote his letter. Among other members of the headquarters company from this city are Robert Duckett, Herbert Mooneyham and Milton Pool. His letter is as follows:

We left Camp Sevier May 5 and arrived at Camp Merritt, New York, May 7. Spent 10 days thee and then went by train to Boston, Mass. We arrived there May 17, took a boat the same day and went back to New York. On May 19 we left New York with a convoy of about 15 troop ships but had to return to Halifax after two days at see on account of our boat being too slow for the others. Left Halifax May 24 and for 11 days we were at the mercy of the old Atlantic.

We had a good time on the trip; at least, that is what some of the crew told us, but take it from me, I ….all that time we were so sick….first taste of Old Jerry’s submarines just before dark. Several of the U-boats got mixed up with our ships but the destroyers soon drove them off. The next afternoon they were right after us again but again, I am glad to say, they didn’t do any damage.

Our company landed in England at a place called Tillsburg, went from there by train to Dover and took boat to Calais, France. We arrived on French soil June 5. At this place we saw German aeroplanes for the first time. The first night there “Old Jerry” gave us a warm reception and dropped bombs all night but that did not keep us from getting a good night’s sleep. We spent six days there and every night we were bombed by the Germans.

From Calais we went to a place called Autang and reached this village June 12. We spent about a month at Autang in training and then were assigned to the British in Belgium. Had to hike over 50 miles. I can not give the Belgium very much but our company was there about two months with the British. We were just between Ypres and Kemmel Hill and ….. helped to capture Kemmel Hill. We left Belgium September 5 and arrived at Seine Chateau, France, on the following day. I thought we would go in the line at this place but, after spending about 10 days thee, we started out again on September 17 and reached Fontecourt the same day. I want to say that all these trips we took either on foot or in a box car.

We let Fontecourt September 27 and, after stopping at several places, arrived at a stop called Heigson Quarry. Here is where we started out first real fight when on the morning of September 29 we hit the Hindenburg line, had broken through by 9 o’clock and when night arrived we had penetrated three miles. We took several thousand prisoners and God only knows how many Huns were killed. I went over the battlefield the next day and could hardly walk for dead Germans. I never saw such a sight in all my life and will not try to describe it, for I cannot do so.

The barrage for our drive started at 5:30 in the morning and it was the greatest I have ever seen. I remained awake all night just to see the barrage and all at once I thought every gun in the world had broken loose. Our boys went steadily behind the barrage and the old Hindenburg line looked like a ditch in about half an hour.

We started moving up the next day, doing our best to keep up with Fritz, but he ran so fast that it was impossible to keep in contact with him. We went back to the line for a rest October 1 and thought sure we would have about a month doing nothing. However, October 5 we were ordered to hit the front trenches again, so had to again hike 40 miles. We went into action for the second time and pushed on to a place called Bohain. There were several thousand French people in this town. A majority of them were women and children and had been held captives by the Germans for over four years. You can imagine how glad they were to be free again. They were very much surprised to learn we were Americans as they did not know that America was in the war.

Our division was in the line until October 21 and then started back for another rest. On the way to the rear we passed through Tincourt, Peronne, Bray and arrived at Contagon October 25. Here we had a big French chateau for headquarters and for a long time had nothing to do but have a good time. I went to Amiens three times and found the city one of the nicest in France.

On November 20 we took a train at Cobie for Southern France and had a nice trip, reaching our present camp the next day. I am glad to say that LeMans, where we are now stationed, is the best place we have yet struck and the people are treating us fine, as we are the first soldiers to encamp in the city.

Alamance County Soldier Boys Who Were Home for Christmas, Dec. 26, 1918

From The Alamance Gleaner, Graham, N.C., Dec. 26, 1918

Soldier Boys Home for Christmas

Honnie Shields, discharged, from Camp Jackson

Jim Flintom, discharged, from Camp Jackson

Willie Woods, discharged, from Camp Mills

Sergt. Glosson, discharged from Camp Sevier

Lieut. Jerry Bason, near Swepsonville, discharged, from Camp Hancock

Lieut. Chas. Menefee, discharged, from Camp Wadsworth

Lieut. Thos. J. Reavis Jr., discharged, from Camp Wadsworth

Jim McPherson, discharged from Camp Jackson

Sergt. Thos. Vaughn, on furlough, 48th Infantry, from Norfolk

Sergt. Will Trollinger, on furlough, from Fort Ethan Allen

Leo D. Moon, on furlough. Landed from France on Thursday and reached Graham Christmas day. On September 29 he was wounded three times in the right arm and once in the left leg. He will return to Camp Upton for his discharge. He has a walking stick that he took from a German officer.

Ensign William Menefee, aviator, on furlough from Brooklyn Yards

Lieut. Daniel Bell, furlough, from Camp Upton.

Womack McBane, Medical Mate, on furlough. He was on the George Washington in which President Wilson sailed. He did not go over when the president went.

“Dutch” Clapp, on furlough, from U.S. Receiving Ship at Hampton Roads.

A.A. Riddle on furlough, U.S. Navy, is spending the holidays here with his wife and baby at Mr. J. Dolph Long’s.

Sergt. Harder Long, colored, is home on a furlough from Camp Jackson.

Tuesday, December 25, 2018

Register at Next Semester at University of North Carolina Jan. 2, 1919

From The University of North Carolina News Letter, Dec. 25, 1918

Register at Once

The Students’ Army Training Corps has been disbanded and the University of North Carolina will return to a pre-war basis after the Christmas holidays. The work for the remainder of this college year will be divided into two quarters, and the schedule of courses will be so arranged that a student may begin at the opening of the winter quarter and pursue courses as complete units during these quarters. 

Many courses hitherto three hours per week will be offered for five or six hours per week, so that full instruction in these subjects may be assured. By this arrangement it will be possible for old students to continue their college work at the point at which they left it. No advantage will be gained by waiting until the opening of another college year. From the standpoint of academic credit, courses will count for the two quarters and in the same proportion as in the past. New students, who are prepared for entrance to college, may register and complete two-thirds of their year’s work instead of one-half as formerly.

Rooms for the ‘Winter and Spring terms may be reserved at the Treasurer’s office by signing room contract and making initial payment of $50 on room rent by each intending occupant.

The fees for the Winter or Spring term are as follows:

Academic
Tuition, $20
Registration fee, $10
Total per term, $30

Pharmacy
Tuition, $20
Registration fee, $10
Total per term, $30

Medical
Tuition, $25
Registration fee, $10
Total per term, $35

Law
Tuition, $25
Registration fee
Total per term, $10

A damage fee of $2 will be collected from each registrant who has not already paid this fee for this year. Laboratory fees in each department will approximate for each quarter one-third of the total for 1917-18. Board at Swain Hall is $17 per month.

A preliminary investigation by the Director of the Students’ Army Training corps revealed the fact that approximately one-third of the student soldiers in the Southeastern District were dependent upon the pay of the Government for their opportunity for collegiate training. The University of North Carolina will do all in its power to aid such men through its Self-Help Committee and its loan funds. Application for self-help should be made to Dr. J.M. Bell, Chairman of the Self-Help Committee, and requests for loans should be filed with Prof. M.H. Stacy, Chairman of the Faculty.

Winter Quarter: Registration January 2 and 3, 1919; lectures begin on January 4.

Pittman, Webb, Wilkerson, Beland Families Receive Letters for Christmas, Dec. 24, 1918

From The Daily Times, Wilson, N.C., Dec. 24, 1918

Letter from Frank Pittman

The following letter is from Mr. Frank Pittman, “Somewhere in France,” to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jno. Ed Pittman, who live near Wilson.

November 13, 1918
Dear Father and Mother:

Will drop you a few lines to let you hear from me. I am well and you know I am feeling good to know the war is over.

I had a narrow escape just before it was over. I went into the battle on the ninth, before it was over on the 11th. We lost right many men in our division, don’t know yet how many. Thank the Lord I was lucky enough to get out, and luck it was, for we went in through shell fire and came out through it.
We went into the fight about 9 o’clock and drove until 4 o’clock. During that time we drove them back about a mile and a half or two miles, and when they got back behind their machine guns they opened fire on us with them and we couldn’t do a thing, but retreat and come out. We captured several of them and they captured several of our boys, but turned them loose soon after it was over. Some of our boys that were wounded were carried to their hospitals by Fritz. We were in to it the evening everything ceased firing and they were bringing the dead and wounded out, we went up where they were, and they were the proudest fellows you ever saw. Fritz shook hands with us and wanted to hug us. They took some of the boys back about two miles and showed them how they (Fritz) were situated, and our boys say they were fixed up pretty well. Fritz says if they had not got ordered to stop firing at 11 o’clock they were going to keep themselves up until 1 o’clock, then come over and give themselves up to us. The Germans had been promised peace and had been fooled every time.

Well it won’t be so long now before I can be on my way back to the U.S.A. and you know I will be a proud boy then. Well, I will tell you all about it when I get home again.

Love to all.

Your devoted son,
Frank

-=-

Letter From Rainey Wilkerson

November 27, 1918
My Dear Mother:

Will write you a short letter tonight. Would have written sooner but have been sick since Tuesday. Have been very ill but am feeling some better tonight. I have got so I have the headache like papa. It lasts two or three days at the time.

We made another move Wednesday. We are now in a good place. Anyway we think we are on our way home. All the rumors are that we will leave here about the first of December. I certainly hope so, for I sure am tired of staying over here. We drew the first American rations Saturday that we have drawn since we came over here for we have been attached to the British army ever since we have been over here up until about a week ago.

How is papa getting along. All are well I hope. Is mamie getting ready to move to the country? Well, I, for one, will never like the country for I have already seen too much of it. I have been very near all over France. Saw Harvey Wilkerson a few days ago. He had just come from the hospital where he had been treated for a wound.

Winter time has struck us over here at last but I have nine blankets and my bed fellow has six, so I sleep plenty warm.

Well, Thanksgiving is right here and all of us boys over here certainly have something to be thankful for.

I am afraid that Hatty is sick for I haven’t heard from her lately.

Tell papa if he was here he could get all the cognac and rum he wanted, either will make you drunk. Once in a while I will take a drink. It costs seven sous or seven cents in our money.

Well, I must close for tonight. Hope to see you all soon.

Lovingly, your son,
Rainey

-=-

Letter from Ernest W. Webb

Somewhere in France
November 15, 1918
Mr. Graham W. Batts, Wilson, N.C.
My Dear Friend:

Will write you tonight, would have written you before but we have been pretty busy attending to the Boche, or rather the Germans. We are having a good rest now, just a few parades and inspections are all. Guess you all over there have received the good news. And I know it put gladness in many a sad heart over there, but the people over home are not the only ones glad to see it end. We Americans over here to put an end to it and we did so, and we ended it in a way to please all of the Allied nations, and that was to fight them to a finish. The people over home don’t realize the feeling these poor countries have towards the Americans. They take their hats off to us, and I tell you they owe it to us for we saved them from destruction.

I read in the Daily Times a few days ago where there was a lot of influenza around Wilson, sure was sorry to learn that. We haven’t lost a man with it from Company K so far.

Those of us present with the company just now are well and getting along fine, and hope to be back in the good old U.S.A. soon. Guess you have read in the papers of what the Tar Heels have been doing over here, haven’t you? They still have the pep their fathers and grandfathers had in the Civil War.

The last letter I wrote you I was with Battalion Headquarters, I was with them about three months, but am back with old Company K now. We have a new captain now and a fine one. He is a Tar Heel, his home is in Goldsboro. Zeno G. Holland is his name. I saw Captain Giddens a few days ago. He was getting along all o.k. He is in command of a replace battalion now and we sure miss him.

I notice in several papers where Wilson goes over the top on all the Liberty Bond days, and it makes a fellow feel good to see where his old home town shows up so well. And the people of Wilson can rest assured that every man in Company K has done his part in beating the Huns.

Charlie Mumford is in London on a pass for a few days. The captain asked me the other day if I wanted a pass. I told him yes but I didn’t think he could supply me with one like I wanted. He asked me what kind I wanted and I told him I wanted one across the Mill Pond. We hope to be back before very long and I think the churches will have more business when we get back than they did before we came over here, for this war has taught many a man a good lesson. And I guess there will be a number of them that will visit Mr. Dildy, the Register of Deeds.

Well, Graham, I guess you are getting tired of reading this so will close as I am not for writing letters. Give all my friends my best regards and tell them to write me.

With best wishes,
Ernest W. Webb, 1st Sgt. Co. K

-=-

Roy F. Beland

A letter from Mr. Roy F. Beland to his father, Mr. J.C. Beland.
November 24, 1918
Dear Dad:

I will take pleasure in writing you a few lines today. I am well and enjoying the very best of health.
Today is called Dad’s day. Every soldier in the A.E.F. is requested to write his father a letter today. In case he hasn’t a father, to write somebody else’s father.

Well, I have the chance of telling you about my trip over. I left Camp Greene, from there I went to Camp Upton, N.Y. I left New York City July 15th. We sailed two days and arrived at Halifax, Canada. We stayed there two days and then we started across. We went a long ways out of the way dodging subs. When we were near the coast of England our convoy ran into a bunch of submarines there. We had a little excitement for about one hour. I was down in the transport when I heard the shots. I came up and went to the forward deck of the ship and about the time I got to my life boat I saw a submarine pass by the ship on our right. Fired three shots at it, the third sinking it. We had quite a number of cruisers and submarine chasers with us.

The first of August we arrived at Liverpool, England. Thee we unloaded and took a train and crossed England to Southampton. We stayed in Southampton for 48 hours and then we took a boat across the English Channel and in about four hours we arrived at Le Havre, France. From there we went to Issodoun and I have been here ever since I have been in France. Well, I guess this ends my journey in a very few words.

I guess the next thing to study about is going back. I don’t believe that will be much longer.

Well, papa, the war is over and I haven’t fired a gun, and haven’t had a gun, since I left the infantry last January, some brave soldier I am, Ha, ha! And that isn’t all, I haven’t seen one fired. I wanted to see some of the front but I guess I am out of luck, but I have put in my time at an aviation field. I think I could have made better if I could have stayed in the Infantry.

I am sending you a paper that is published, the 3rd Aviation Instruction Center. It can tell you more about the kind of work I am doing than I can. I read it every week. I think it is very interesting. Well, as news is scarce, I will close. Love to you all.

Your devoted son,
Roy