Woolsey family letters during the War for the Union

General Scott issues a comprehensive pass to Eliza and Georgy to give them access to outlying camps and hospitals.—Woolsey family letters.

Government hospitals were multiplying in Washington, Georgetown, and Alexandria. As regiments were ordered forward extemporized camp hospitals were broken up, and patients were sent back to these large general ones in the rear.

By this time J. H. had ordered his horses and carriage sent on from Fishkill for our use and we were constantly driving about, seeing where the need was in camps and hospitals and supplying wants. In order to make our way to the many outlying hospitals about Washington and also to visit Joe’s camp over the river, it was necessary for us to be provided with passes–not always an easy thing to procure. General Scott, however, came to the rescue and gave the following comprehensive one which was “good daily” during the rest of our stay in Washington:–

Headquarters of the Army,
Washington, Aug. 19, 1861.

Mrs. Joseph Howland (wife of the Adjutant of the New York 16th Regt.), sister Miss G. M. Woolsey, and man-servant (Stanislas Moritz) will be permitted to pass the Bridges to Alexandria (and return) and are commended to the courtesy of the troops.

Good daily.

Winfield Scott.

By command:

H. VAN RENSSELAER,

Col. and Aid de Camp.

Armed with this we constantly dashed over the Long-Bridge, the carriage filled with all sorts of supplies from the abundant and unfailing stores committed to us by the family and friends and societies at home. Warm woolen socks were always one item. Abby and many others never ceased knitting them during the war. Wherever we found a camp-hospital in need, there we thankfully left comforts from home, or arranged that the Sanitary Commission, whose general office was directly opposite to the Ebbitt House, should supply the want.

The Commission on its side was always glad to have our report and responded promptly to all our suggestions.

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Posted August 19, 2021

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