A set of annual reports of the the Fire Department from 1859-1872. Reports missing for years 1862-1865. The annual reports open with a statement from the Fire Chief and include multiple lists of department expenses, financial cost of fires, the cause of the fires, and locations of city property pertaining to the fire department.
These images are from the Signal Book kept by Union Officer Ensign LaRue P Adams during the Siege of Charleston between August and September of 1863. Note: Some pages were not scanned because they were blank and contained no content or were ripped out and were therefore unavailable for digitization.
These images are from the daybook of James Poyas, a Charleston merchant. Entries begin in February 1760 and end in April of 1765. James Poyas was born in 1736 to Jean Louis (anglicized to John Lewis) Poyas and Marie Jourdan. He married Elizabeth Portall in 1755, and they had one child, a daughter, Elizabeth. In 1767, James moved his family to London. They never returned to America to live. His daughter married an Englishman, Joseph Higginson; and James died in Bath in 1799. Beyond these few facts, very little is known about James and his family. Research is, of course, on-going. The daybook itself is one of a set. The South Carolina Historical Society holds the companion book, which covers from 1764-1766, so there is some overlap. The description of the entries list the names and, in the parentheses behind them, their account numbers. This will serve as a differentiation between people (fathers and sons, cousins, etc.) with the same or similar names. Due to slight variations in spelling (for which we have attempted a reconciliation), it will also serve as a confirmation that one is in fact looking at the same person throughout the ledger. Some of the miscellaneous account numbers, not associated with people, are: account 3 -- the store itself; account 31 -- cash; account 87 -- Indico [Indigo?] and account 81 -- Bonds and Notes. Occassionally there are entries with no account numbers next to them. These seem to be have been entered into another ledger (petty cash?) but no account number has been listed in our corresponding description, even if that person had (or would have) an account.
Letter from Royal Flint to Nathanael Greene. Includes a discussion of the discrepancies in the mail and missed communications. Flint goes on to discuss the political nature of the country as was told to him by General Greene. Flint continues to discuss the general nature of the politics and questioning the decisions made by the government; saying the people have developed a habit of complaining, the need to regulate the currency, and refrain from continuing to alter the constitution.He also addresses the issue of pay, advocating the compensation of the army. He then discusses the lack of supplies for General Greene's troops. Flint goes on to state that Colonel Wadsworth is tiring of his role in the legislature.
Letter from John Ashe to Benjamin Lincoln regarding the impending invasion of troops from the other side of the Savannah river and an insistence that there needed to be a strong opposition to meet them in Augusta. Ashe also states that he has enclosed a letter from General Williamson.
Letter from William Heath to The Staff of the Army [and] Hospital, Eastern Department thanking them for the opportunity to serve and command in the army.
Letter from Mann Page, Jr. to John Page relating recent news including the locations of Howe's fleet and a foiled assassination attempt on General Washington.
Letter from Charles Petit to Nathanael Greene regarding the success of General Greene’s military campaign, the raising of funds and supplies, and the state of trade.
Letter from John Mathews to Nathanael Greene regarding the possible battle strategies of the English as the end of the war draws near and how the Continental army should go about trapping the British troops.
Letter from William Bryan to [Governor Richard Caswell] regarding the British attacks in the north, the movement of their fleet, his suspicion that they intend to attack South Carolina, and the lack of preparation for said attack.
Letter from Stephen Drayton to Benjamin Lincoln mentioning the misconduct of the North Carolina’s commissary and continue to discuss ideas on better transportation of troops and supplies. Drayton goes on to detail some of the supplies which he has sent to various units and camps; tents, knapsacks, kettles, canteens, hoes, axes, and carpenters tools. He laments the lack of spades or shovels and states that he has enclosed a list of items.
Letter from Henry Laurens to Benjamin Lincoln regarding his travel plans to board a ship for Cadiz. He also reports that the horses are in deplorable condition and paper is running out.
Letter from John Laurens to Benjamin Lincoln discussing battle strategy and reporting the number of enemy troops opposite them on the Wappataw River. Laurens also reports that the enemy have ransacked ‘Mrs. Pinckneys’ plantation.
Letter from Charles Petit to Nathanael Greene regarding the war in America and Europe’s dependence on the United States asserting their dominance over England.
Letter from John Laurens to Francis Kinloch regarding foreign travel in Europe and the state of American political affairs. Laurens proceeds to outline the South Carolinian officials who are to attend the General Congress gathering that will soon take place in Philadelphia or New York.
Letter from William Pierce to William Davies regarding the general status of the American troops; in Charleston and Virginia in particular. In the last paragraph Pierce expresses the imminence of an attack.
Letter from John Hancock to the Governor and Council of the State of Virginia regarding the movement of the British fleet from New York. Hancock reports that the fleet is suspected to be bound for South Carolina.
Letter from Mann Page, Jr. to John Page regarding the location of various commanders of the Continental Army, including General Washington and General Gates, and their troops.
Letter from James Mitchell Varnum to Nathanael Greene regarding general politics and how he believes the country should be organized after the war. Varnum goes on to criticize Congress and discuss the lack of men and funds to continue much longer in the war.
Letter from Otho Holland Williams to Nathanael Greene detailing his trip to Bath, the purchase of a tract of land in Maryland, and his wish to receive orders from General Greene.
Letter from William Pierce, Jr. to Nathanael Greene regarding the transfer of the British fleet to Halifax, the lack of confidence the Tories have in Lord Cornwallis, and the general state of the British military holdings in the Americas.
Letter from William Duer to Nathanael Greene expressing his joy over his new marriage, concern over the political climate of the states, and request to forward a few letters.
Main caption: 'Incidents of the Earthquake at Charleston.--drawn by Schell and Hogan.--[see page 590.]' Caption top left: 'In front of the Charleston Hotel.' Caption top right: 'looking over the roofs.' Caption middle: 'A camp on the East Battery.' Caption bottom left: 'The front wall gone.' Caption bottom center: 'In a rich man's garden.' Caption bottom right: ' On the track.' [full date September 11, 1886.]
Caption: 'General Halleck's fleet of mortar-boats for service on the Mississippi.--sketched by Mr. Alexander Simplot.--[see page 827.]' [full date December 28, 1861.]
Caption: 'Folley's (sic) Battery, near the lighthouse, at Charleston, South Carolina.--from a sketch by A.P. Palmer, 21st South Carolina Volunteers.--[see page 79.]' [full date January 31, 1863.]
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Taken after the 31st of August, 1886. No.79, St. Mary's Church. [And handwritten] Hasell Street.'
Letter from William Davies to Nathanael Greene discussing the shortage of various supplies and troops. Colonel Davies debates the movements of several regiments of men in regards to military strategy and what movement would provide the most strength in the desired areas. Davies also reports the instability of the government in the states of South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and [New] Hampshire.
Letter from Christian Febiger to Nathanael Greene regarding the transfer of equipment, such as tents, camp equipment, colors, and fifes, to Virginia. Febiger also details the activities of the Committee of Congress and transfer of additional personnel.
Letter from Major General Nathanael Greene addressed to Arthur Campbell regarding the ongoing hostilities in the states of North Carolina and Virginia. Greene is advising Campbell on how to best achieve peace with the Cherokee and Chiccasaw Native American tribes.
Main caption: 'Leading lawn-tennis players.--photographed by E.M. Bidwell.--[see page 583.]' Caption top left: 'Richard Dudley Sears.' Caption top right: 'Dr. James Dwight.' Caption bottom left: 'R. Livingston Beeckman.' Caption bottom right: 'Howard A. Taylor.' [full date September 11, 1886.]
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Taken after the 31st of August, 1886. No.99, Rear of Scotch Church.' Handwritten at bottom, front: 'Charleston Earthquake scene - Rear of First Presbyterian Church.'
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Taken after the 31st of August, 1886. No.99, Rear of Scotch Church.' First (Scots) Presbyterian Church on Meeting Street.
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Taken after the 31st of August, 1886. No.65, _____ Holmes, East Battery.' Written on front, at bottom: 'Charleston Earthquake scene - Holmes residence, East Battery.' Charleston city directory for 1886 shows Charles R. Holmes, Jr., at 19 East Battery.
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Series No.2. No.170, Buist residence, Rutledge Street.' Written on front, at bottom: Buist Residence, 43 Rutledge St.' Charleston city directory for 1886 shows listing for Samuel S. Buist at 43 Rutledge Avenue.
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Taken after the 31st of August, 1886. No.135, Corner State and Chalmers Streets.' Written on front, at bottom: 'Charleston Earthquake views - ruins cor[ner] Chalmers & State Str.'
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Series No.2. No.187, residence of Mr. A. Lengnick.' Charleston city directory for 1886 shows Albert Lengnick at 11 Pitt Street.
Caption: 'The Richland Rifles enjoying the "after-dinner hour," at their quarters on Sullivan's Island, Charleston Harbor, S.C. From a sketch taken on the spot by our Special Artist now in Charleston.' [full date March 2, 1861.]
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Taken after the 31st of August, 1886.' Possibly No.178, but corresponding captioning is missing. Handwritten on reverse: 'Formerly St. Luke's Episcopal now [New Tabernacle] Fourth Baptist Church, 22 Elizabeth Street.' Handwritten at bottom, front: 'Charleston Earthquake scene - St. Luke's Episcopal Church.'
Letter from Thomas McKean to Nathanael Greene regarding the movement of troops from Staten Island towards the Delaware River and the placement of Admiral Digby and his battle ships, frigates. McKean also states his inclusion of the current proceedings of Congress.
Letter from Gouverneur Morris to Nathanael Greene regarding the issues the government encountered when attempting to pay the soldiers of the Revolution and discussing possible solutions.
Letter from William Moultrie to Benjamin Lincoln informing him of his moving his troops (400 Continental troops, artillery, 4 pieces of field artillery, and 350 militia) to join Lincoln.
Letter from Charles Scott to Nathanael Greene informing him of his orders from General Washington to aid General Muhlenberg in recruitment efforts in Virginia before reporting to General Greene.
Main caption: 'The present appearance of Charleston, S.C., showing the effects of the Federal bombardment.--from recent sketches by our special artist.' Caption top left: 'Nos.165, 167 and 169 Meeting Street, Charleston, S.C.' Caption top right: 'East Bay Street, looking south.' Caption middle left: 'Kitchen attached to 53 Wentworth Street--effect of two shells.' Caption middle right: 'Gentleman's ordinary, Charleston Hotel.' Caption bottom: 'Vendue Range.' [full date March 25, 1865.]
Caption: 'The siege of Charleston--View from the sea-face of Fort Wagner.--sketched by Mr. Theodore R. Davis.--[See Page 621.]' [full date September 26, 1863.]
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Series No.2. No.181, Beresford Street.' This may be Beresford Alley which is also known as Clifford Street.
Written on reverse: 'House in which young Mr. Robson was killed. Two young ladies were buried in the ruins were rescued. Coming near Cannon.' Possibly from Cook's Earthquake Views, No.132, residence of J.N. Robson, from west. Written on front, at bottom: 'Charleston Earthquake view. Residence of Mr. J.N. Robson, whose eldest son was killed.' Charleston city directory for 1886 shows James N. Robson at 200 Coming Street.
Caption: 'Charleston Earthquake. Photographs by Dr. E.P. Howland, taken on his visit to Charleston and the earthquake region of Ten Mile Hill and Summerville. Over 150 photographs were taken. Orphans and tents in which they lived.' Written on front, at bottom: 'Charleston Earthquake scene - orphans, standing the yard of the Orphan House.'
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Taken after the 31st of August, 1886. No.116, wreck in George Street.' Written on front, at bottom: 'Charleston Earthquake view - Ruins in George St.'
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Taken after the 31st of August, 1886. No.149, Robb's Lot.' Handwritten on reverse: ' Robb's Lot E. side [of] King bet[ween] Market & Horlbeck.'
Caption: 'Remains of the new bridge over Ashley River, Charleston, S.C., partially destroyed by the Rebels on the evacuation of the city, Feb 18, 1865.--from a sketch by our Special Artist, W.T. Crane.' [full date June 10, 1865.]
Caption: 'Map of the Southern states, showing the relative proportion of slaves in the different localities.--[see page 142.]' [full date February 28, 1863.]
Letter from John Walker to Thomas Jefferson regarding the receipt of intelligence that an enemy attack on stores was imminent, their attempt to prevent the attack, and requesting orders.
Letter from Francis Marion to Nathanael Greene regarding the movements of the enemy around South Carolina, the fitness of his men, and the renewing of clothing supplies for the corps.
Caption: 'Morris Island, as seen from Fort Sumter.--[drawn by an Officer of Major Anderson's Command.]' Also identified with captions: 'Battery from which the "Star of the West" was fired upon. Cumming's Point. Sand Battery, connected by covered gallery with...iron-clad battery.' [full date March 2, 1861.]
Caption: 'Cook's Earthquake Views of Charleston and Vicinity. Taken after the 31st of August, 1886. No.133, 5 and 7 Broad Street.' Written on front, at bottom: 'Walker, Evans & Cogswell, Broad St.' Charleston City Directory for 1886 shows Walker, Evans & Cogswell at 3-5 Broad Street. Etiwan[Phosphate] Company is at 7 Broad.
Charleston Earthquake scene. Possibly from Cook's Earthquake Views, no.63. William Ravenel, East Battery, rear. Written on front, at bottom: 'Wm Ravenel's, East Battery.'
Letter from Mann Page, Jr. to John Page appraising his brother of his bout with smallpox, preparation for an enemy invasion in Philadelphia, the British blocking of trade, the loss of a ship with her captain and supplies, and reporting the expected renewal of British forces in the spring.
List of volunteer firefighters of city engine number 7, including their names, ages, description, occupation, and residence. This copy is missing one name due to a tear in the page, but the information is available in the second copy. Donated to the Charleston Museum by Charles Pequette, 1925
List of volunteer firefighters of city engine number 7, including their names, ages, description, occupation, and residence. This copy is alphabetized, but omits most of the firefighters' full first names. Donated to the Charleston Museum by Charles Pequette, 1925
List of volunteer firefighters of the city's Hook and Ladder Company, including their names, ages, description, occupation, and residence. Donated to the Charleston Museum by Charles Pequette, 1925
List of volunteer firefighters of city engine number 5, including their names, ages, description, and occupation. This copy does not include the firefighters' street of residence. See Copy 2. Donated to the Charleston Museum by Charles Pequette, 1925
List of volunteer firefighters of city engine number 2, including their names, ages, description, occupation, and residence. Donated to the Charleston Museum by Charles Pequette, 1925
Caption (in German): 'Die im Ban [Bau] begriffene schwimmende Batterie in Charleston, S.C.' [The nascent Floating Battery in Charleston, S.C.] [full date February 16, 1861.]
![Letter from William Heath to The Staff of the Army [and] Hospital, Eastern Department](https://iiif.library.cofc.edu/iiif/2/35917/full/200,/0/default.jpg)
![Letter from William Heath to Colonel Gallop [Gallup?]](https://iiif.library.cofc.edu/iiif/2/35918/full/200,/0/default.jpg)
![Letter from William Bryan to [Governor Richard Caswell]](https://iiif.library.cofc.edu/iiif/2/35544/full/200,/0/default.jpg)
![Letter from Thomas Burke to [Nathanael Greene]](https://iiif.library.cofc.edu/iiif/2/36219/full/200,/0/default.jpg)
![Descriptive List of Free Negroes Belonging to City Engine No. 7 [Copy 1]](https://iiif.library.cofc.edu/iiif/2/50351/full/200,/0/default.jpg)
![Descriptive List of Free Negroes Belonging to City Engine No. 7 [Copy 2]](https://iiif.library.cofc.edu/iiif/2/50352/full/200,/0/default.jpg)
![Descriptive List of Free Negroes Belonging to City Hook & Ladder Co. [Copy 1]](https://iiif.library.cofc.edu/iiif/2/50353/full/200,/0/default.jpg)
![Descriptive List of Free Negroes Belonging to City Engine No. 5 [Copy 1]](https://iiif.library.cofc.edu/iiif/2/50349/full/200,/0/default.jpg)
