The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time

Day 49 of the Spanish–American War, June 7th 1898

Cuba: Battle of Guantánamo Bay

USS Marblehead, USS St. Louis and USS Yankee enter Guantánamo Bay at dawn, Spanish soldiers clustered about the blockhouse on the hill known today as McCalla Hill. The blockhouse and the village were speedily cleared by fire from USS Marblehead's six-pounder gun, along with a single 5 in (130 mm) shell. The Spanish gunboats Alvarado and Sandoval came down the channel from Camanera to meet the attack but retired precipitately on discovering the caliber of guns against them. The one cannon of the fort on Cayo del Toro opened fire on USS Marblehead without effect until it was silenced.

The telegraph cables leading east to Cap-Haïtien, west to Santiago, and the small cable in the bay connecting Caimanera and Guantánamo City with Cap-Haïtien were all successfully cut, and from 7 June to 5 July the town of Guantánamo had no communication with the outside world.

USS Marblehead C11

GENERAL:

MONTGOMERY (C- 9), DETROIT (C-10) and MARBLEHEAD (C-11) were protected cruisers, the smallest of that type in the 1898 U.S. Navy. All three were completed in 1894. During the Spanish-American War, they were actively employed in the Cuban and Caribbean areas. DETROIT was disposed of in 1910, but the other two continued in service through the First World War.

BACKGROUND:

The MARBLEHEAD, a protected cruiser, was laid down in October 1890 by City Point Works, Boston, Massachusetts; launched 11 August 1892; sponsored by Mrs. C. F. Allen and commissioned 2 April 1894, Commander Charles O'Neil in command.

This cruiser was soon integrated in the North Atlantic Squadron. In June 1894, she carried out military operations in Nicaragua since the political instability in that country had provoked a risky situation for lives and interests of US citizens residing in there country. At the beginning of September, she left Nicaraguan waters and cruised the Caribbean, showing the flag, until the 6th of December, the date of her arrival in Hampton Roads, Virginia. During 1895 and 1897 MARBLEHEAD performed goodwill missions in Europe, visiting several seaports of the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, and cruised the east coast and the Caribbean in training.

MARBLEHEAD served on the North Atlantic Squadron and, when Rear Admiral Sampson was ordered to blockade the Cuban coast from Cardenas to Bahia Honda, she was sent to the NE of the island and was put in charge of carrying out attacking the Spanish boats.

Once the Cuban North coast was controlled by the US Navy, (25 April 1898), Admiral Sampson decided to expand the blockade to the island’s South coast. Consequently, the cruiser MARBLEHEAD, the gunboat NASHVILLE and the armed yacht EAGLE sailed for Cienfuegos, (480 miles from Havana). MARBLEHEAD and EAGLE (April 26, early morning) went aground at the Arrecifes Colorados, between Bahia Honda and Cabo San Antonio (NW end of the island) and it took 12 hours to free themselves. After this, these ships continued their route to Cienfuegos but they were not in time to intercept the Spanish transport MONTSERRAT, (this vessel was carrying 800 Spanish soldiers).

However, on 29 April 1898, MARBLEHEAD, NASHVILLE and EAGLE intercepted the Spanish supply ship ARGONAUTA, on route from Batabano to Cienfuegos and Santiago. This boat was transporting supplies, rifles and ammunitions, as well as some Army officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers who were taken prisoners. The Spanish gunboats DIEGO VELAZQUEZ, SATELITE, LINCE and GAVIOTA tried to avoid this capture and attacked EAGLE but MARBLEHEAD and NASHVILLE repelled them. The three American ships shelled also enemy fortifications on the same day. MARBLEHEAD cut the cables off Cienfuegos on the 11th of May. As the result of this dangerous action, in which crewmen in open boats worked within a few hundred feet of the Spanish rifle pits, the greatest number of Medals of Honor were issued for one action in the Spanish American War. After this action, MARBLEHEAD patrolled off Santiago de Cuba until the beginning of June.

Because the blockade of Santiago was supposed to last a long period of time, the US Navy needed an anchoring place where its warships could be supplied with coal, ammunition, etc. and also carry out emergency repairs. The best place for this anchorage was Guantanamo Bay. This bay had been protected with mines by the Spanish gunboat SANDOVAL and another small gunboat. On 7 June 1898, accompanied by the schooner-rigged cruiser YANKEE, and the ST. LOUIS, MARBLEHEAD arrived and fought SANDOVAL at the distance of 3,000 meters. The Spanish gunboat could not prevent the American vessels from sweeping the mines or cutting the submarine telegraph cables. That day MARBLEHEAD captured the lower bay of Guantanamo as a base for the fleet.

On the 10th of June MARBLEHEAD supported the landing of a battalion of Marines there intended for occupying the rest of Guantanamo Bay. The American troops were attacked by SANDOVAL and a small group of Spanish soldiers. Six days later, the USS MARBLEHEAD and USS TEXAS, that had joined her, bombarded the fort on Cayo del Toro in Guantanamo Bay, and reduced the fort to impotency 15 minutes later.

At the end, on 25 June, SANDOVAL’s Commander, being cornered, scuttled his ship. His heroic actions were useless since all the submarine mines not found by ST. LOUIS failed, even when their cables were caught by the propellers of MARBLEHEAD and TEXAS.

MARBLEHEAD remained in Cuban waters until the beginning of September and, after several non-relevant cruises to Canada, the Caribbean, South America and California, she was decommissioned on 30 April 1900. She was recommissioned again on 10 November 1902 for training and protocol missions, and in 1916 was turned over to the Oregon Naval Militia as training ship for that State.

MARBLEHEAD was again placed in full commission 6 April 1917 and was employed on convoy, patrol, and survey duty during the remainder of World War I. She was decommissioned 21 August. Reclassified and sold on 5 August 1921.

ADVANTAGES/DISADVANTAGES:

The protective deck of this class of cruisers was more a risk than a protection. Their stability was poor and, because of this, the two initially installed 152 mm bow gun had to be replaced by only one 127 mm gun and their apron shields had to be removed. The engine room was very uncomfortable.

TECHNOTES:
Classification:................Montgomery Class Protected Cuiser C-11
Keel Laid:......................October, 1890
Launched:.....................August 11, 1892
Commissioned:..............April 2, 1894
Rig:.............................Two masted Schooner rig.
Armament:...................Ten 127 mm (5 inches) rapid fire guns
...................................Six 57 mm (6 pounder) rapid fire guns
...................................Two one-pounder rapid fire guns
...................................Two Colt revolving cannons
...................................One 3 inch field gun
...................................Two 18" above-surface torpedo tubes
Contractor:...................City Point Works, Boston, MA
Length:........................257 feet
Beam:..........................37 feet
Mean draft:...................14 feet, 7 inches
Max. Draft, fully loaded...16 feet, 8 inches
Displacement:................2,089 tons
Complement:.................20 Officers and 228 Enlisted Men, under the command of Commander B. H. McCalla
Engine type:..................Two Vertical triple expansion engines, each generating 5,451 hp. at 19 knots
Boiler type:....................3 double-ended and 2 single -ended "scotch" boilers
Coal Bunker Capacity:.....340 tons
Normal Coal Supply:.......200 tons
Speed:..........................18.44 knots
Endurance at 10 knots:....2,900 nautical miles
Armor:...........................Protective Deck: 8 mm (5/16 inch) on the flat; 11 mm; (7/16 inch) on the slope.
.....................................Wing turrets and blockhouse: 56 mm thick, (2.2 inches).
.....................................“Woodite” (cellulose) packed cofferdam 1.20 m (3 feet, 11 inches) height, at the openings of the armored deck for a total of 878 Cubic feet. No inner bottom

Cost:..............................$674,000

The second generation "patrol cruiser" was a botched design like many ships of this generation among many navies. The British got their mistakes out of the way early (HMS Captain for example.), but the key point is that this type of cruiser was top-heavy and single-bottomed, which meant it was not too smart to run this ship aground or use it as an impromptu minesweeper.

On the other hand, the ship had decent armament.

By the way this is the USS Sandoval, for the Americans capture the Spanish gunboat:

United States - Sectary of War

TAMPA, FLA., June 7, 1898-9 p. m.

SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D. C. :

I will sail to-morrow morning. Steam cannot be got up earlier. There is loaded to-night 1 division of infantry, 9 regiments; 16 companies of dismounted cavalry, 4 light batteries, 2 siege batteries artillery, 2 companies of engineers, and the troops from Mobile. I will try and get on the rest of the cavalry and another division of regular infantry by morning. I will sail then with whatever I have on board.

That is about:
.....8,000 infantry
.....1,600 cavalry
........400 field gunners
........400 siege gunners
........400 sappers
...~1,000 miscellaneous
...11,800 total troops packed in misery and confusion on 25 transports.

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

TAMPA, FLA., June 7,1898-9.5£ p. m.

ADJUTANT-GENERAL, U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:

The following organizations have arrived to-day by rail from Mobile: The Fifth Cavalry and Nineteenth Infantry. Troops have also arrived from Jefferson Darracks, Mo. The Eleventh Infantry is expected to-night. Embarkation of troops progressed all night last night and all day to-day, and will continue to-night. It is slow work, as wagons can not be driven within one-half mile of the transports, and everything has. to go on a single-track road. Will wire in the morning how we are progressing. It has been very satisfactory to-day. Troops are loaded as fast as the railroad can put them at the dock.

SHAFTER, Major-General, United States Volunteers, Commanding.

That is an additional 2,000 troops.

As we see in photographic evidence of sutler wagons and the 71st New York's wagon train pulled up next to the ships on the quay (See above), Schaffter lied through his stinking teeth when he claimed;

Embarkation of troops progressed all night last night and all day to-day, and will continue to-night. It is slow work, as wagons can not be driven within one-half mile of the transports

He is alibiing his failure to get Tampa properly organized.

United States - Assistant Secretary Of The Navy Charles H. Allen To Secretary Of War Russell Alger

June 7, 1898.

Sir:

I have the honor to transmit, herewith, the following copy of a telegram, dated the 6th instant, received from the United States Consul at San Juan, Porto Rico (now at St. Thomas, W. I.):

“If our Government intends to invade Porto Rico, I consider it important not to underrated Spanish strength. Fortifications San Juan strengthened since last bombardment. Mines have been placed outside, cannons along shore at all sea ports. Her army consists of 5000 regulars, 7000 colonial; besides these, 16,000 volunteers are reported, likely to increase. We cannot now risk no less than 25,000 to take island, without hard fighting

Miles will ignore this intelligence in the future.

Last Edit: Jun 7, 2022 9:10:29 GMT by miletus12

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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 8, 2022 2:49:25 GMT stevep likes this

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Post by lordroel on Jun 8, 2022 2:49:25 GMT

Day 50 of the Spanish-American War, June 8th 1898

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

PORT TAMPA, FLA., June 8,1898-6.90 p. m.

ADJUTANT-GENERAL,U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:

Transports began pulling into the harbor from wharf a little before 6 o'clock this morning, and, under charge of the Navy Department, will be moved outside of entrance to harbor into Gulf. The difficulties encountered here have been almost insurmountable. Anything like quick loading is impossible, from the fact that wagons can not be driven within nearly a mile of the wharf, and the cars have to be run down, unloaded, and run back on the same track. Except when time is no object it should not be attempted to load more than 5,000 men at this place at one time. The following is a list of the organizations: Infantry regiments: Sixth, Sixteenth, Seventy-first New York Volunteers, Tenth, Twenty-first, Second, Thirteenth, Ninth, Twenty-fourth, Eighth, Twenty-second, Second Massachusetts Volunteers, Fourth, First, Twenty-fifth, Twelfth, Seventh, Seventeenth, Third; and Twentieth. Total infantry, 561 officers, 10,709 enlisted men. Two dismounted squadrons, of four troops each, from the Third, Sixth, Ninth, First, Tenth Cavalry regiments; and two dismounted squadrons, of four troops each, from the First United States Volunteer Cavalry, Colonel Wood's regiment. Total dismounted cavalry, 159 officers, 2,875 enlisted men. One squadron Second Cavalry, mounted, 9 officers, 280 enlisted men. Light batteries E and K, First Artillery: A and F, Second Artillery-14 officers, 323 enlisted men. Batteries G and H, Fourth Artillery, siege, 4 officers, 132 enlisted men. Companies C and E of engineers, 9 officers, 2vO enlisted men. Signal detachment, 2 officers and 45 enlisted men. Hospital detachment included. in following figures: Corps staff, 15 officers; grant! total, 773 officers and 14,564 enlisted men.

SHAFTER, Major-General, Commanding.

R. A. ALGER, Secretary of War.

United States - Acting Secretary Of The Navy Charles H. Allen To Henry W. Peabody & Company

Washington, June 8, 1898.

The Department does not understand that a blockade exists at any port in Philippine Islands except Manila. The impracticability of communicating with Admiral Dewey by telegraph and the length of time it takes to communicate with him by letter, makes it necessary for the Department to leave all matters of detail, concerning the management of affairs in the Philippine Islands entirely to his direction. The Department has no doubt he will take the best action practicable in all matters and cannot undertake to issue any kind of permission to any specific vessel.

Allen

Actg Secy

This is my mod color, when its this color, you know

miletus12
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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 8, 2022 13:29:36 GMT

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Post by miletus12 on Jun 8, 2022 13:29:36 GMT

Jun 8, 2022 2:49:25 GMT lordroel said:

Day 50 of the Spanish-American War, June 8th 1898

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

PORT TAMPA, FLA., June 8,1898-6.90 p. m.

ADJUTANT-GENERAL,U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:

Transports began pulling into the harbor from wharf a little before 6 o'clock this morning, and, under charge of the Navy Department, will be moved outside of entrance to harbor into Gulf. The difficulties encountered here have been almost insurmountable. Anything like quick loading is impossible, from the fact that wagons can not be driven within nearly a mile of the wharf, and the cars have to be run down, unloaded, and run back on the same track. Except when time is no object it should not be attempted to load more than 5,000 men at this place at one time. The following is a list of the organizations: Infantry regiments: Sixth, Sixteenth, Seventy-first New York Volunteers, Tenth, Twenty-first, Second, Thirteenth, Ninth, Twenty-fourth, Eighth, Twenty-second, Second Massachusetts Volunteers, Fourth, First, Twenty-fifth, Twelfth, Seventh, Seventeenth, Third; and Twentieth. Total infantry, 561 officers, 10,709 enlisted men. Two dismounted squadrons, of four troops each, from the Third, Sixth, Ninth, First, Tenth Cavalry regiments; and two dismounted squadrons, of four troops each, from the First United States Volunteer Cavalry, Colonel Wood's regiment. Total dismounted cavalry, 159 officers, 2,875 enlisted men. One squadron Second Cavalry, mounted, 9 officers, 280 enlisted men. Light batteries E and K, First Artillery: A and F, Second Artillery-14 officers, 323 enlisted men. Batteries G and H, Fourth Artillery, siege, 4 officers, 132 enlisted men. Companies C and E of engineers, 9 officers, 2vO enlisted men. Signal detachment, 2 officers and 45 enlisted men. Hospital detachment included. in following figures: Corps staff, 15 officers; grant! total, 773 officers and 14,564 enlisted men.

SHAFTER, Major-General, Commanding.

Triple down on the lying. *It is a question of organizing means and ends.

Jun 8, 2022 2:49:25 GMT lordroel said:

United States - Acting Secretary Of The Navy Charles H. Allen To Henry W. Peabody & Company

Washington, June 8, 1898.

The Department does not understand that a blockade exists at any port in Philippine Islands except Manila. The impracticability of communicating with Admiral Dewey by telegraph and the length of time it takes to communicate with him by letter, makes it necessary for the Department to leave all matters of detail, concerning the management of affairs in the Philippine Islands entirely to his direction. The Department has no doubt he will take the best action practicable in all matters and cannot undertake to issue any kind of permission to any specific vessel.

Allen

Actg Secy

What happens here?

Long is not available. (Reason unknown). The inquiry is whether a shipment has to clear a declared blockade and the shippers are concerned that their consignment will be intercepted and seized as contraband. From what I can find, the H.W. Peabody shipment was not intended for Manila, directly. Allen logically points out that the Department cannot provide information from Washington as to local conditions, because the submarine telegraph cables are cut and messenger packet letter service is at least three weeks by aviso or a half week if the British allow a message sent from Hong Kong which is not happening at the moment.

That Allen has to explain these realities to a presumably competent international shipping business is kind of funny. You can almost sense his annoyance as you read his letter. Why would Allen be annoyed? He has much bigger problems.

On June 4, in reply to a telegram from the Department asking if the convoy was ready, the commandant of the naval base at Key West stated, "Vessels all ready."

On June 8 information was received at Tampa, through the naval base at Key West, from two different sources, indicating the possible presence of a force of Spanish vessels in Nicholas Channel. The War Department was informed of this news, and orders were issued to Admiral Sampson to reenforce the convoying squadron by two armored vessels. On the next day the expedition was directed to proceed without regard to this information, as it was discredited both by Admiral Sampson and the Department, and the following telegram was sent:

NAVAL BASE, Key West, Fla.:

*** The expedition will proceed without reference to the Spaniards. Department will inform commander in chief North Atlantic Station and the War Department of this.

ALLEN, Acting Secretary.

Schaffter was making a mess of the army embarkation at Tampa, Florida; the USN was up to its ears in false information in Caribbean matters, and in the middle of this chaos, some nitwit firm out of Boston wants to know if the Navy can guarantee a freighter headed for the Philippine Islands will have a safe conduct through Dewey's blockade?

Last Edit: Jun 8, 2022 13:46:24 GMT by miletus12

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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 9, 2022 2:51:21 GMT stevep likes this

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Post by lordroel on Jun 9, 2022 2:51:21 GMT

Day 51 of the Spanish-American War, June 9th 1898

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,

Washington, June 9,1898. (Sent in cipher 9.30 p. m.)

Following from the Acting Secretary Navy sent for your information, and you will transmit it to General Shafter: " Referring to the expedition destined to Santiago de Cuba, I have the honor to inform you that it is expected that the convoy of men-of-war, reinforced by two armored ships from Admiral Sampson's fleet, will be coaled and ready to start for Santiago by the evening of Monday, the 13th instant, or by the morning of the following day, without regard to the Spanish ships. The board is of the opinion that army transports should not move from the vicinity of Tampa until about twenty hours before the naval convoy will be coaled and ready to start. This latter time, though estimated as above, can not be closely fixed to-day, but probably can be by to-morrow evening." Any further 'information concerning the movement of vessels for convoy will be sent you the moment it is received.

By order Secretary War: H. C. CORBIN, Adjutant-General.

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

PORT TAMPA, FLA., June 9,1898"-6.05 p. m.

ADJUTANT-GENERAL,U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:

Referring to Secretary's telegram of yesterday to take advantage of delay to increase our forces as much as possible', I have to say steamer Florida was disabled yesterday by collision. The chief quartermaster reports to me this morning that practically the available space is now occupied on the transports that are now here, unless they were crowded more than is advisable, considering weather and long distance to go. There is an excellent division here of volunteers that I would like to have addeu to my forces, and that was intended to go, if transports can be sent to embark it.

SHAFTER, Major-General Commanding.

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,

Tampa, Fla., June, 1898.

Think it would be well to announce that the army got on board transports and started, as they did, yesterday. Say nothing about itR being recalled, but let our naval vessels go over the course that our transports would have gone over, with the hope of finding those Spanish ships. Does not the presence of Spanish war vessels in Cuban waters render it extremely hazardous to send troops on transports until they are captured, destroyed, or driven away? And, under the circumstances, is it expected that I shall organize expedition No.2. Arrangements had been partly made before the presence of the Spanish ships was announced.

MILES, Major-General Commanding Army.

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

TAMPA BAY HOTEL, Tampa, Fla., June 9,1898-2.45 p. m.

SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D. C.:

It seems that it is a naval problem yet unsolved, and it might be advisable for the command now on board transports to have the protection of the entire Navy to convoy it to No.1, No.2, or Nuevitas, or if this is considered too hazardous, then keep the troops in healthful camps. as they now are, and assist the Navy to destroy the Spanish fleet. There are here 25 good steamers that could be used to carry water, coal and supplies, guns, revolving cannon and mortars, etc., and they could be added to the force of the Navy. It seems strange to be suggesting that the Army assist the Navy in this way, but I am sure we would receive most loyal support when the waters are safe for crossing with the Army.

MILES, Major-General Commanding Army.

United States - Sectary of the War

WAR DEPARTMENT, June 9, 1898.

Major-General MILES, Tampa, Fla.:

The President directs me to say that no change of plan will be made; that expedition No.2 must be organized as rapidly as possible. We are looking for transports, and am satisfied the Navy will take care of that problem. Give nothing out.

R. A. ALGER, Secretary of War.

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,

Washington, June 9,1898.
(Sent in cipher 9.30 p. m.)

Following from the Acting Secretary Navy sent for your information, and you will transmit it to General Shafter: " Referring to the expedition destined to Santiago de Cuba, I have the honor to inform you that it is expected that the convoy of men-of-war, reenforced by two armored ships from Admiral Sampson's fleet, will be coaled and ready to start for Santiago by the evening of Monday, the 13th instant, or by the morning of the following day, without regard to the Spanish ships. The board is of the opinion that army transports should not move from the vicinity of Tampa until about twenty hours before the naval convoy will be coaled and ready to start. This latter time, though estimated as above, can not be closely fixed to-day, buit probably can be by to-morrow evening." Any further 'information concerning the movement of vessels for convoy will be sent you the moment it is received.
By order Secretary War:

H. C. CORBIN, Adjutant-General.

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, June 9,1898.

Should not sail until Monday. Secretary War desires to know whether you will keep your troops on board or disembark them.

H. C. CORBIN, Adjutant-General.

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

PORT TAMPA, FLA., June 9,1898-9.32 p. m.

ADJUTANT-GENERAL, U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:

As the ships are lying it is impracticable to disembark the men. The general officers in command are all unanimous in this opinion. They will be off, however, in detachments for exercise. There is no place in the vicinity where they can be camped with any degree of comfort.

SHAFTER, Major-General, United States Volunteers.

This is my mod color, when its this color, you know

miletus12
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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 9, 2022 13:39:56 GMT

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Post by miletus12 on Jun 9, 2022 13:39:56 GMT

Did I mention there were troop riots in the midst of Schaffter's engendered chaos?

Day 51 of the Spanish-American War, June 9th 1898

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,

Washington, June 9,1898. (Sent in cipher 9.30 p. m.)

Following from the Acting Secretary Navy sent for your information, and you will transmit it to General Shafter: " Referring to the expedition destined to Santiago de Cuba, I have the honor to inform you that it is expected that the convoy of men-of-war, reinforced by two armored ships from Admiral Sampson's fleet, will be coaled and ready to start for Santiago by the evening of Monday, the 13th instant, or by the morning of the following day, without regard to the Spanish ships. The board is of the opinion that army transports should not move from the vicinity of Tampa until about twenty hours before the naval convoy will be coaled and ready to start. This latter time, though estimated as above, can not be closely fixed to-day, but probably can be by to-morrow evening." Any further 'information concerning the movement of vessels for convoy will be sent you the moment it is received.

By order Secretary War: H. C. CORBIN, Adjutant-General.

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

PORT TAMPA, FLA., June 9,1898"-6.05 p. m.

ADJUTANT-GENERAL,U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:

Referring to Secretary's telegram of yesterday to take advantage of delay to increase our forces as much as possible', I have to say steamer Florida was disabled yesterday by collision. The chief quartermaster reports to me this morning that practically the available space is now occupied on the transports that are now here, unless they were crowded more than is advisable, considering weather and long distance to go. There is an excellent division here of volunteers that I would like to have addeu to my forces, and that was intended to go, if transports can be sent to embark it.

SHAFTER, Major-General Commanding.

SS Florida tried to berth without tug support. Apparently, she tried to parallel park at the pier in a gap and her captain did not know how. CRUNCH. As for Schaffter's bungling, it continues with the transports overpacked and stuffed with troops and material higgle-piggle. Nobody has calculated fresh-water condenser capacity or how many toilets the troops need per ship. Can one say; "dysentery, and diarrhea"? How about seasickness?

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,

Tampa, Fla., June, 1898.

Think it would be well to announce that the army got on board transports and started, as they did, yesterday. Say nothing about it being recalled, but let our naval vessels go over the course that our transports would have gone over, with the hope of finding those Spanish ships. Does not the presence of Spanish war vessels in Cuban waters render it extremely hazardous to send troops on transports until they are captured, destroyed, or driven away? And, under the circumstances, is it expected that I shall organize expedition No.2. Arrangements had been partly made before the presence of the Spanish ships was announced.

MILES, Major-General Commanding Army.

Apparently General Miles is not in the loop about the shambles at Tampa.

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

TAMPA BAY HOTEL, Tampa, Fla., June 9,1898-2.45 p. m.

SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D. C.:

It seems that it is a naval problem yet unsolved, and it might be advisable for the command now on board transports to have the protection of the entire Navy to convoy it to No.1, No.2, or Nuevitas, or if this is considered too hazardous, then keep the troops in healthful camps. as they now are, and assist the Navy to destroy the Spanish fleet. There are here 25 good steamers that could be used to carry water, coal and supplies, guns, revolving cannon and mortars, etc., and they could be added to the force of the Navy. It seems strange to be suggesting that the Army assist the Navy in this way, but I am sure we would receive most loyal support when the waters are safe for crossing with the Army.

MILES, Major-General Commanding Army.

Healthful camps? Is he kidding?

From the riots link.

In April 1898, the Spanish-American War brought an influx of mobilized troops to Tampa in preparation of the invasion of Cuba. While the generals and journalists enjoyed the luxuries of the Tampa Bay Hotel, the enlisted men sweltered in tents. Racial tensions flared between white and black troops. The unorganized logistical effort resulted in chaos on the railroad sidings and Port Tampa. On June 14, the troops embarked for Cuba, to the great relief of Tampa and the troops themselves.

WAR DEPARTMENT, June 9, 1898.

Major-General MILES, Tampa, Fla.:

The President directs me to say that no change of plan will be made; that expedition No.2 must be organized as rapidly as possible. We are looking for transports, and am satisfied the Navy will take care of that problem. Give nothing out.

R. A. ALGER, Secretary of War.

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

Number Two, and the pun is intended for General Miles is being politically flushed down the toilet into the Puerto Rico operation to dead end his presidential ambitions, Number Two is Puerto Rico.

Washington, June 9,1898.
(Sent in cipher 9.30 p. m.)

Following from the Acting Secretary Navy sent for your information, and you will transmit it to General Shafter: " Referring to the expedition destined to Santiago de Cuba, I have the honor to inform you that it is expected that the convoy of men-of-war, reenforced by two armored ships from Admiral Sampson's fleet, will be coaled and ready to start for Santiago by the evening of Monday, the 13th instant, or by the morning of the following day, without regard to the Spanish ships. The board is of the opinion that army transports should not move from the vicinity of Tampa until about twenty hours before the naval convoy will be coaled and ready to start. This latter time, though estimated as above, can not be closely fixed to-day, but probably can be by to-morrow evening." Any further 'information concerning the movement of vessels for convoy will be sent you the moment it is received.
By order Secretary War:

H. C. CORBIN, Adjutant-General.

And Allen has just told the army to keep the troops on the transports and ready to go. Think about it. Those poor devils are stuck on those rust-buckets in a crowded sweltering HOT Florida port aboard steel and wood ships, shank by flank, with no fresh air, eating rotten tinned beef and with mosquitos galore, with rusty water drawn from the steam engine distillers for them to drink and only buckets for nature's call since many of the transports' human waste disposal systems are either overused or clogged up.

The Navy will do a report on this disaster and blame / embarrass the army. Note the Navy told the army to "keep the troops loaded aboard transports on standby while our own imbecile, Sampson, gets himself organized... we hope".

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, June 9,1898.

Should not sail until Monday. Secretary War desires to know whether you will keep your troops on board or disembark them.

H. C. CORBIN, Adjutant-General.

What it means, translated and for once Russell Alger actually has a glimmer of intelligence about this war management thingy: is; "Get the troops off the transports, you stupid incompetent expletive deleted idiot!"

What does Schaffter reply?

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

PORT TAMPA, FLA., June 9,1898-9.32 p. m.

ADJUTANT-GENERAL, U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:

As the ships are lying it is impracticable to disembark the men. The general officers in command are all unanimous in this opinion. They will be off, however, in detachments for exercise. There is no place in the vicinity where they can be camped with any degree of comfort.

SHAFTER, Major-General, United States Volunteers.

At this moment, this is when a competent secretary of war relieves, General Schaffter, convenes a court martial for that fat oaf and assigns Miles to fix the mess Schaffter made. Flame President McKinley and the next election. But does Alger do the right thing? There is a war in progress and the US generals are obviously doing everything in their power to win it... for Spain.

Last Edit: Jun 9, 2022 15:18:15 GMT by miletus12

lordroel
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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 10, 2022 7:22:08 GMT

Quote

Post by lordroel on Jun 10, 2022 7:22:08 GMT

Day 52 of the Spanish–American War, June 10th 1898

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,

Tampa, Fla.,June 10, 1898.

SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D. C.:

There are five regiments at Mobile-the First and Second Texas, First and Second Louisiana, and First Alabama-uniformed and equipped only in part. Camp there in good condition, healthy location, good water, and good bathing facilities. Ten or fifteen thousand additional troops can be camped there better than to bring them to Tampa. There are 15,000 troops at Tampa besides General Shafter's command, which is now on transports. His force would be increased by recruits and men left behind if he had additional transports. Troops here are comparatively healthy, have fair camps, good bathing facilities, and are in good condition, considering the inwnse heat of the Southern clime. Would not advise their being moved North at this time. As the camp at Chickamauga is becoming very much crowded, I expect to take some troops from there to make up the 30,000 required for expedition No.2 and will recommend other changes as soon as report is received from Dr. Greenleaf's board. The transports furnished do not afford accommodation for the number of troops expected. They are not suited for the shipment of large bodies of troops or animals. Believe it would be advisable to obtain larger steamers for the accommodation of both, and if the line of double or bilge keel cattle steamers, built especially for that purpose, could be obtained, they would be of great value in shipping animals for officers, cavalry, artillery, and transportation. The fact that arms have been ordered to these three great commands docs not indicate that they are available, as much time is consumed before they are received. I would recommend that arms and ammunition, camp equipage, especially such articles as axes, spades, cooking utensils, etc., be sent with as little delay as possible. Experienced staff officers are much required, and I recommend that they be ordered to those headquarters for assignment to corps, divisions, and brigades. To avoid the uncertainty a~ to time when expedition No.2 will be ready, would suggest that if practicable some definite time be determined as to when the last transports can be procured and prepared, in order that that time may be understood as the time for having the commands ready for embarkation.

MILES, Major-General Commanding Army.

Official copy respectfully furnished by mail.

EDW. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

Cuba: Battle of Guantánamo Bay

The First Battalion of Marines, consisting of six companies of around 650 men (five infantry and one artillery company) landed unopposed with five of its six companies, leaving the artillery company aboard to unload the ship, as Commander Reiter, the captain of the converted transport USS Panther,, had refused to authorize the use of ship's personnel for unloading duties. Reiter also refused to permit the unloading of the remainder of the Marines' small arms ammunition, claiming that it was needed as ship's ballast. Lt. Col. Huntington, commander of the First Battalion of Marines sought assistance from Commander McCalla, captain of USS Marblehead, who ordered Reiter to release the Marines' ammunition at once: "Sir, break out immediately and land with the crew of the Panther, 50,000 rounds of 6-mm. ammunition," McCalla ordered. "In the future, do not require Colonel Huntington to break out or land his stores with members of his command. Use your own officers and men for this purpose, and supply the Commanding Officer of Marines promptly with anything he may desire.

The Marines burned crude huts of the village and the remains of the blockhouse with all their contents to avoid the possibility of yellow fever. The Spanish had fled in such a hurry that clothing, money, jewelry and weapons had been left behind.The battalion raised the American flag, the first U.S. military unit to do so on Cuban soil, and sent out detachments for outpost duty.

Lt. Col. Huntington ordered Company C to occupy a 150-ft tall hill located some distance from the main Marine position, and which could not be supported by the main body at Camp McCalla. Two forward outposts were established, one at a road junction located several hundred yards ahead of the camp and known as the "Crossroads", and one called "The Bridge" placed across a road a mile and a half from the American camp, where Spanish forces bringing artillery from Caimanera were expected. With the sea at their backs, a lack of mutual support between outposts, and the thorny scrub and cacti of the arid hills stretching in a dense tangle before them, the Marines had a less-than-ideal tactical position. Commander McCalla pointed out to Lt. Col. Huntington that his outposts were too far forward and could not be seen or supported in the dense undergrowth between the outposts and the main camp. Three of the companies stacked arms and returned to the ship to help with unloading operations. Shortly after sundown, the Marines had their first meal of coffee and hardtack. Soon afterwards the first alarm came. Voices were heard and lights seen in the thicket, but no attack came that night. Spanish forces defending the area were desperately short of food, and delayed attacking until the Marines had completed unloading their stores in hopes of seizing the American supplies.

By daybreak, the Marines had completed unloading their stores and equipment, though the artillery pieces and their ammunition were left aboard ship. The remaining companies of the battalion came ashore, and Company C was withdrawn from its isolated hill outpost. The only sound in the thickets was the cooing of mourning doves, a sound which Marines would later learn was a favorite signal call used by Spanish loyalist guerrilla forces.

Lt. Col. Huntington was joined in the afternoon by Colonel Laborde of the Cuban army, who for several days had been with Commander McCalla as pilot on USS Marblehead, and now had been sent ashore to assist the Marines and provide intelligence about the enemy.

Laborde reported the major Spanish force in the area had its headquarters at the "Well of Cuzco", 2 mi (3.2 km) southeast of Fisherman's Point. The well provided the only fresh water in the area. This occupying force of about 500 soldiers and guerrillas, joined by the troops driven from the blockhouse on the bay, constituted the gravest threat to the US base of operations. Laborde noted that seizing Cuzco Well and destroying it would inevitably force Spanish forces to retreat all the way to Ciudad Guantánamo (Guantánamo City).

As they spoke, firing began in the thicket in front of their position. Lt. Col. Huntington led most of his command forward. However, the thorny tangle of trees, underbrush, and cactus forced him to proceed with only one company.

United States - Commodore Arent S. Crowninshield, Chief Of The Bureau Of Navigation, To Commodore George C. Remey, Commandant, Key West Naval Base

WASHINGTON, D.C.,

June 10th, 1898.

S i r ,

Under the provisions of the Auxiliary, Naval Force Bill, and the instructions sent out by the Secretary of the Navy to the Governors of States, Rear Admiral Henry Erben, U.S.N., 39 WhitehallSt., New York, has been placed in charge of Auxiliary Force for the inner defense of the Atlantic coast, and Rear Admiral Joseph N Miller, U.S.N., U.S.S. ALBATROSS, San Francisco, Calif., has been placed in charge of the same Forces on the Pacific coast.

2. They have been instructed to arrange with the Adjutant Generals of the different states wherein there are organizations of naval reserves, for holding examinations and making enlistments of such officers and men of these organizations who may volunteer to enter the U. S. Navy under certain conditions. The officers appointed, and men enlisted, will be sent to the nearest receiving ship or station, from which regular details can be drawn by those officers in charge as required, which details will, as far as practicable, be made of men from the same State and organization.

3. When these men are sent to the Station under your command, you will be pleased to quarter them on board the receiving ship, and where possible, on board vessels already detailed for the use of naval reserves, filling those latter first; and in order to do this, you will have to get the consent of officers in command of those vessels, through the State authorities.

4. These men’s records will have to be kept separate from thosefor the general or special service of the Navy, and their enlistment records must be marked “Auxiliary Naval Force”, and if not, they must be returned to the enlisting officers for such marks. They cannot be detailed for service on board any vessels unless requisitioned for by the Admirals mentioned, or by a special order from the Bureau. They will be amenable to all the regulations under the law for the government of the Navy, and to all the rules in force on the receiving ships.

Respectfully,

A.S.Crowninshield

Chief of Bureau.

JHM

This is my mod color, when its this color, you know

miletus12
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To get yourself lost, just follow the signs.

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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 10, 2022 11:30:46 GMT

Quote

Post by miletus12 on Jun 10, 2022 11:30:46 GMT

Jun 10, 2022 7:22:08 GMT lordroel said:

Day 52 of the Spanish–American War, June 10th 1898

United States - Adjutant-Generals Office

HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,

Tampa, Fla.,June 10, 1898.

SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D. C.:

There are five regiments at Mobile-the First and Second Texas, First and Second Louisiana, and First Alabama-uniformed and equipped only in part. Camp there in good condition, healthy location, good water, and good bathing facilities. Ten or fifteen thousand additional troops can be camped there better than to bring them to Tampa. There are 15,000 troops at Tampa besides General Shafter's command, which is now on transports. His force would be increased by recruits and men left behind if he had additional transports. Troops here are comparatively healthy, have fair camps, good bathing facilities, and are in good condition, considering the intense heat of the Southern clime. Would not advise their being moved North at this time. As the camp at Chickamauga is becoming very much crowded, I expect to take some troops from there to make up the 30,000 required for expedition No.2 and will recommend other changes as soon as report is received from Dr. Greenleaf's board. The transports furnished do not afford accommodation for the number of troops expected. They are not suited for the shipment of large bodies of troops or animals. Believe it would be advisable to obtain larger steamers for the accommodation of both, and if the line of double or bilge keel cattle steamers, built especially for that purpose, could be obtained, they would be of great value in shipping animals for officers, cavalry, artillery, and transportation. The fact that arms have been ordered to these three great commands does not indicate that they are available, as much time is consumed before they are received. I would recommend that arms and ammunition, camp equipage, especially such articles as axes, spades, cooking utensils, etc., be sent with as little delay as possible. Experienced staff officers are much required, and I recommend that they be ordered to those headquarters for assignment to corps, divisions, and brigades. To avoid the uncertainty as to time when expedition No.2 will be ready, would suggest that if practicable some definite time be determined as to when the last transports can be procured and prepared, in order that that time may be understood as the time for having the commands ready for embarkation.

MILES, Major-General Commanding Army.

Official copy respectfully furnished by mail.

EDW. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

Bilge water.

Example:

A Brief History of the 1st Alabama Volunteer Infantry

By Patrick McSherry

General:

The First Alabama Volunteer Infantry served its term of service within the continental U.S. during the Spanish American War.

Unit History:

The 1st Alabama Volunteer Infantry was organized at Mobile, Alabama and was mustered into the federal service between May 9 and May 24, 1898. At the time of mustering in, the regiment consisted of forty-eight officers and 941 enlisted men. The regiment was commanded by Col. E. L. Higdan, assisted by Maj. T. O. Smith.

The regiment was initially assigned to the Fourth Army Corps, being in the corp’s Third Brigade of the First Division, but on June 26, it was transferred to the First Brigade, First Division of Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee’s Seventh Army Corps. The regiment had departed Mobile for Miami, Florida on June 25, arriving on the same day that the transfer occurred.

The regiment remained at Miami until August 12, when, it joined (and) departed for Jacksonville, Florida’s Camp Cuba Libre, arriving the following day. On the same day, Spain and the United States agreed to an armistice, ending the war’s fighting, though a formal peace treaty would not be signed until December. With the war’s fighting over, and the need for the regiment’s existence ended, the regiment requested to be released from service.

Apparently, while encamped at Camp Cuba Libre, the volunteers showed that they were having some difficulty taking their duties seriously any longer. Men of the Second Louisiana Volunteer Infantry found that the shortest route back to their camp was though the camp of the First Alabama. One night, as a soldier of the former regiment approached, he was stopped by a First Alabama sentinel who called to the soldier to halt, while simultaneously bringing his rifle up into the firing position. The two looked at each other until finally the sentinel said “You can’t get through this line unless you say Hobson,” giving the intruder the password. “Hobson!” came the reply. At that, the sentinel dropped his rifle to present arms. The intruder then saluted and was allowed to pass.

On September 13, the regiment departed Jacksonville for Birmingham, Alabama, arriving the following day. At Birmingham, the regiment was given a thirty day furlough, beginning on September 19 and was paid. The combination of money and the regained freedom was too much for some of the men, and their actions sullied the regiment's reputation. Following their release on furlough, some of the soldiers of the regiment, encamped at East Lake, went on a rampage. Several bloody affairs resulted, with the most serious resulting in the shooting death of Private John Slaben by Private David B. McClung. In a confrontation with the camp provost guard, several drunken soldiers were left with bayonet wounds. Another soldier was seriously injured in a fight in camp.

The First Alabama Volunteer Infantry was mustered out of service on October 31, 1898 at Birmingham. At the time of mustering out, the regiment consisted of forty-nine officers and 1,089 enlisted men. During its term of service, the regiment lost one officer and fifteen enlisted men to disease. Thirty-one men were discharged on disability. In addition, thirty-two enlisted men deserted.

On December 10, 1898, the Treaty of Paris was signed between the United States and Spain, formally ending the Spanish American War. Ironically, eight days later, William Simms formerly of the regiment's Company E shot and killed a man named Rod Norton of Town Creek at a country dance. In spite of its service to the country, the regiment proved more dangerous to American citizens than to the military forces of Spain.

Bibliography:

-“A Bloody Pay Day,” Trenton Evening Times. (Trenton, New Jersey), September 20, 1898, 1.
-Clerk of Joint Committee on Printing, The Abridgement of Message from the President of the United States to the Two Houses of Congress. (Washington: Government Printing Office, 1899) Vol. 3, 219.
-Correspondence relating to the War with Spain And Conditions Growing Out of the Same Including the Insurrection in the Philippine Island and the China Relief Expedition. Vol. 1 (Washington: Government Printing Office, 1902) 530-534, 600.
-“The Inexorable Sentinel,” The Evening Democrat. (Warren, Pennsylvania), August 26, 1898, 2.
-“First Alabama Leaves Miami,” Daily News. (Naugatuck, Connecticut), August 12, 1898, 1.
-“Lynchers Failed,” The Argus. (Middletown, New York), December 22, 1898, 2.
-“Schley Honored,” Davenport Daily Leader. (Davenport, Iowa), November 7, 1899.
-“Want to Leave Army,” Evening Democrat. (Warren, Pennsylvania, August 23, 1898, 2
-Statistical Exhibit of Strength of Volunteer Forces Called into Service During the War with Spain; with Losses from All Causes. (Washington: Government Printing Office, 1899).
-Wright, General Marcus J., Wright's Official History of the Spanish American War. (Washington: War Records Office 1900), 237.

Let me cut through the smoke and mirrors of that sanitized history for you.

1. At muster, these Unreconstructed Confederates thought they were going to a picnic.
2. As can be seen from his bio, Colonel Elijah Lee Higdon was a "good old boy" real estate agent and local grocer, who was a politician and 'leading citizen'. If the custom of the time was followed in Alabama, he bought his commission or was elected by his men. I suspect from the unit service history that he was a "ninny".
3. Based on internal evidence, these clowns had thirty days of organized camp drill before they went to Cuba.
4. The sentry incident indicates the approximate level of basic troop training.
5. At furlough and pay out of arreared backpay, the regiment's troops broke discipline, left camp, got drunk, and went on a rampage to celebrate. Part of that rampage was the riot and an attempted lynching of an unknown individual, probably African American. To suppress that riot an adjacent unit was emergency assigned to provost and there was bayonet work involved to break up the attempted lynching. One rioter was shot and killed. Several others were bayonetted. THINK ABOUT THAT.
6. The regiment had unusually low disease casualties and an average desertion rate. Use in war? None. Effectiveness ZERO.
====================================
Doctor Charles Greenleaf (Colonel US Army Medical Corps) was sent to inspect the Tampa, Fl. camps. He found them appalling. His report did not make the rounds until August of 1898, by which time, the ground combat operations were over.

We have a summary of his Spanish American War experience.

COL. C. R. GREENLEAF TALKS OF THE WAR

A good-sized audience filled the First Presbyterian Church last night to hear Colonel Charles R. Greenleaf, medical Inspector of the United States army, speak of his experiences In Cuba and Porto Rico. Colonel Greenleaf, who is here to take charge of the sanitary affairs of the troops returning- from Manila, was the medical inspector of the Eastern camps, where the soldiers were quartered after having served in the tropics. He had under his direct supervision at Savannah 13.000 and at Harrisburg 6000 returned soldiers. The colonel said that during the war one thought had often occurred to him, and that was that the people at home had little conception of the suffering and misery that was incident to war. He continued: "The first six months or year of a war are very productive of sickness. It takes about that time to teach a soldier how to keep his person and surroundings clean. The prime duty of the medical staff is to gauge the percentage of sickness among the soldiers for the first half year. We count on about 15 per cent of sick men to S per cent of those Injured in battle. The Red Cross societies of Europe an' organized under more favorable conditions than ours. They have the advantages of centralization and systematic distribution. The necessity of these two things in this work is one of the lessons of the war." The speaker described the condition of the troops when he reached Siboney in a very graphic manner. He said: "it was impossible to keep the men from exposing themselves. They seemed entirely devoid of caution and could not be kept from the infected houses. One incident touched me deeply," eald he. "The hospital at Siboney was crowded. Every nurse and attendant had come clown with the contagion. At my request a captain of the Twenty-fourth (colored) called for volunteers from his company to act as nurses. The company stepped forward as one man."

After describing some interesting incidents of the Porto Hican campaign, the colonel told of the scenes and conditions in Cuba. He said that Senator Proctor's letter before the war does not begin to express the suffering. He saw more suffering, more dreadful misery in that island than in all the rest of his lifetime put together.

Coming from an American Civil War veteran who had seen the wreckage of that conflict, that description of the Cuba campaign is "appalling".

================================

General Miles (in green) makes known the following deficiencies.
a. Transports. He is aware now that the Atlantic immigrant people ferries, which the War Department has STUFTed are little better than the awful horrors that used to be sailed in the Infamous Triangle Trade. Whether slaves, opium, spices or in the current 1890s, European immigrants, the concept of this type ship was always the same: move the goods and people as cheaply as possible to maximize shipper's profits on cargo. This meant the ships were not design optimized for comfort or health of passengers, but maximum passenger carrying capacity and cargo lift with acceptable loss %s. Turning these floating obscenities into troop transports meant trying to double or triple the maximum acceptable civil capacity. There are thirty of these things packed with troops jammed up at Tampa, Florida.
b. Armaments and equipment. No doubt he means the follow-on forces scattered in the Eastern Department in the US southern camps, but he might as well be describing the riff-raff still bivouacked in the Tampa tent camps. Most of them will be issued American Civil War surplus reworked Trap Door Springfield rifles. Shortages of mess kits and basic field gear is obvious. What is not obvious is surplus ACW uniforms, the rotten food, and the lack of competent officers and NCOs to train and manage these "volunteer" mobs. (See the 1st Alabama unit history above?). Suggesting that there is a shortage of trained staff officers is hilarious. As a general rule, each of the eight corps, by German standards, (which is the gold standard as of this date), should have a staff section at regiment to handle commissary, supply, training, medical and logistics. That would be about 10 officers and 100 specialist enlisted troops. The Americans have about 200 "volunteer regiments" called to the colors, so make that 2000 staff officers and 20,000 logistics, supply, commissariat, medical, and training specialists. What was the size of the federal army? 26,000 personnel. The numbers do not add up, do they?

Jun 10, 2022 7:22:08 GMT lordroel said:

Cuba: Battle of Guantánamo Bay

The First Battalion of Marines, consisting of six companies of around 650 men (five infantry and one artillery company) landed unopposed with five of its six companies, leaving the artillery company aboard to unload the ship, as Commander Reiter, the captain of the converted transport USS Panther,, had refused to authorize the use of ship's personnel for unloading duties. Reiter also refused to permit the unloading of the remainder of the Marines' small arms ammunition, claiming that it was needed as ship's ballast. Lt. Col. Huntington, commander of the First Battalion of Marines sought assistance from Commander McCalla, captain of USS Marblehead, who ordered Reiter to release the Marines' ammunition at once: "Sir, break out immediately and land with the crew of the Panther, 50,000 rounds of 6-mm. ammunition," McCalla ordered. "In the future, do not require Colonel Huntington to break out or land his stores with members of his command. Use your own officers and men for this purpose, and supply the Commanding Officer of Marines promptly with anything he may desire.

The Marines burned crude huts of the village and the remains of the blockhouse with all their contents to avoid the possibility of yellow fever. The Spanish had fled in such a hurry that clothing, money, jewelry and weapons had been left behind. The battalion raised the American flag, the first U.S. military unit to do so on Cuban soil and sent out detachments for outpost duty.

Lt. Col. Huntington ordered Company C to occupy a 150-ft tall hill located some distance from the main Marine position, and which could not be supported by the main body at Camp McCalla. Two forward outposts were established, one at a road junction located several hundred yards ahead of the camp and known as the "Crossroads", and one called "The Bridge" placed across a road a mile and a half from the American camp, where Spanish forces bringing artillery from Caimanera were expected. With the sea at their backs, a lack of mutual support between outposts, and the thorny scrub and cacti of the arid hills stretching in a dense tangle before them, the Marines had a less-than-ideal tactical position. Commander McCalla pointed out to Lt. Col. Huntington that his outposts were too far forward and could not be seen or supported in the dense undergrowth between the outposts and the main camp. Three of the companies stacked arms and returned to the ship to help with unloading operations. Shortly after sundown, the Marines had their first meal of coffee and hardtack. Soon afterwards the first alarm came. Voices were heard and lights seen in the thicket, but no attack came that night. Spanish forces defending the area were desperately short of food and delayed attacking until the Marines had completed unloading their stores in hopes of seizing the American supplies.

By daybreak, the Marines had completed unloading their stores and equipment, though the artillery pieces and their ammunition were left aboard ship. The remaining companies of the battalion came ashore, and Company C was withdrawn from its isolated hill outpost. The only sound in the thickets was the cooing of mourning doves, a sound which Marines would later learn was a favorite signal call used by Spanish loyalist guerrilla forces.

Lt. Col. Huntington was joined in the afternoon by Colonel Laborde of the Cuban army, who for several days had been with Commander McCalla as pilot on USS Marblehead, and now had been sent ashore to assist the Marines and provide intelligence about the enemy.

Laborde reported the major Spanish force in the area had its headquarters at the "Well of Cuzco", 2 mi (3.2 km) southeast of Fisherman's Point. The well provided the only fresh water in the area. This occupying force of about 500 soldiers and guerrillas, joined by the troops driven from the blockhouse on the bay, constituted the gravest threat to the US base of operations. Laborde noted that seizing Cuzco Well and destroying it would inevitably force Spanish forces to retreat all the way to Ciudad Guantánamo (Guantánamo City).

As they spoke, firing began in the thicket in front of their position. Lt. Col. Huntington led most of his command forward. However, the thorny tangle of trees, underbrush, and cactus forced him to proceed with only one company.

1. Captain Reiter should have been relieved and beached.
2. Apparently Col. Huntington and his command know what they are doing. Burning was the only known remedy for yellow fever that worked at the time.
3. CAPT McCalla has previously impressed as an "excellent" ship captain. I am sure Col. Huntington was annoyed at the kibbitzing from the Navy, but given the circumstances, McCalla was correct about the lack of mutual support. However, Huntington has other things he has to consider.
4. Huntington promptly took the high ground for observation and established a road-block to forestall an enemy attack from a threat axis. Those are remarkably advanced tactical decisions for an invader to make in that era. The British at Gallipoli did not have the brains to do it eighteen years later, and look what happened to them.
5. The Cuzco Well is obviously going to be the main objective as soon as Huntington secures his beachhead. The Spaniards are cooked.

See map.

Jun 10, 2022 7:22:08 GMT lordroel said:

United States - Commodore Arent S. Crowninshield, Chief Of The Bureau Of Navigation, To Commodore George C. Remey, Commandant, Key West Naval Base

WASHINGTON, D.C.,

June 10th, 1898.

Sir ,

Under the provisions of the Auxiliary, Naval Force Bill, and the instructions sent out by the Secretary of the Navy to the Governors of States, Rear Admiral Henry Erben, U.S.N., 39 Whitehall St., New York, has been placed in charge of Auxiliary Force for the inner defense of the Atlantic coast, and Rear Admiral Joseph N Miller, U.S.N., U.S.S. ALBATROSS, San Francisco, Calif., has been placed in charge of the same Forces on the Pacific coast.

2. They have been instructed to arrange with the Adjutant Generals of the different states wherein there are organizations of naval reserves, for holding examinations and making enlistments of such officers and men of these organizations who may volunteer to enter the U. S. Navy under certain conditions. The officers appointed, and men enlisted, will be sent to the nearest receiving ship or station, from which regular details can be drawn by those officers in charge as required, which details will, as far as practicable, be made of men from the same State and organization.

3. When these men are sent to the Station under your command, you will be pleased to quarter them on board the receiving ship, and where possible, on board vessels already detailed for the use of naval reserves, filling those latter first; and in order to do this, you will have to get the consent of officers in command of those vessels, through the State authorities.

4. These men’s records will have to be kept separate from those for the general or special service of the Navy, and their enlistment records must be marked “Auxiliary Naval Force”, and if not, they must be returned to the enlisting officers for such marks. They cannot be detailed for service on board any vessels unless requisitioned for by the Admirals mentioned, or by a special order from the Bureau. They will be amenable to all the regulations under the law for the government of the Navy, and to all the rules in force on the receiving ships.

Respectfully,

A.S.Crowninshield

Chief of Bureau.

JHM

Admiral Erben, as recalled to the colors, has to organize an Atlantic coast watch against Spanish raiders, from the dregs of the recruiting pool and with whatever ships the USN can spare him. since Schley is down Santiago way. This Crowninshield letter *(^^^) details the manning issues and how those will be solved administratively. As I noted previously, unlike a lot of the Elmer Fudds running around in uniform, who are clueless, *(Sampson for example.), Erben does "okay" with what little he is assigned. His 'watch' actually patrolled well and even managed to ruffle shuffle some of the shipping screwed up around the Gulf coast.

Last Edit: Jun 10, 2022 14:07:12 GMT by miletus12

lordroel
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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 11, 2022 6:04:21 GMT stevep likes this

Quote

Post by lordroel on Jun 11, 2022 6:04:21 GMT

Day 53 of the Spanish–American War, June 11th 1898

Philippines

Philippine Declaration of Independence held at the ancestral home of Emilio Aguinaldo, proclaiming the sovereignty of the Philippines.

German squadron under Admiral Diederichs arrives at Manila.

Cuba: Battle of Guantánamo Bay - Battle of Camp McCalla

Although Lt. Col. Huntington was now assured of naval gunfire support, Camp McCalla was tactically unsound. No attack had been expected, so no trenches were dug. The Marines' artillery had not even been sent ashore. Located on the sands of the open beach, the Marine campsite proved an ideal target for snipers concealed in the brush.

Painting: First hoisting of the Stars and Stripes by the US Marines on Cuban soil, June 11, 1898

At daybreak (05:00), Spanish guerrillas opened fire on the Marines at Camp McCalla from the surrounding brush. Firing a fusillade from their rapid-firing Mauser rifles, the guerrillas advanced towards the camp. After heavy fighting, and supported by the reserve company (Company C) the Marines drove the enemy back into the bush, pursuing the enemy until the chase was abandoned at dark. Two pickets on outpost duty, Privates William Dumphy and James McColgan, who were posted as an early-warning patrol 100 yards ahead of the "Crossroads" forward outpost were later found dead, shot and cut numerous times in the face and body. Their weapons, shoes, belts, and part of their clothing had been taken.

Painting: Gallant defense of Camp McCalla, June 11

United States - Assistant Secretary Of The Navy Charles H. Allen To Read Admiral William T. Sampson, Commander, North Atlantic Fleet

Washington, D.C.

June,11 [1898]

May, 14, the British consular agent at Guantanamo, Cuba says that innavigable harbor seventeen mine fields floating about two metres below surface. Conversation overheard at Philadelphia, states Morro cliffs Santiago were so mined as to be blown up at will toward our vessels that may be passing in the channel. This seems inprobable and probably impracticable.

Sig. AllenyActing.

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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 11, 2022 15:45:12 GMT

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Post by miletus12 on Jun 11, 2022 15:45:12 GMT

Jun 11, 2022 6:04:21 GMT lordroel said:

Day 53 of the Spanish–American War, June 11th 1898

Philippines

Philippine Declaration of Independence held at the ancestral home of Emilio Aguinaldo, proclaiming the sovereignty of the Philippines.

German squadron under Admiral Diederichs arrives at Manila.

Here is an item describing conditions leading up to the arrival of von Diederichs.

Diary of Lieutenant X (Aime Ernest Motsch)

Sunday, 29 May, 1898

The blockade of Manila is now a month old.

The weather will worsen. The Americans have not planned their strategy against the city. They are waiting for the ground troops to arrive from San Francisco. Meanwhile, the insurgents have taken up arms, each day coming closer to Manila, where the Spaniards have allowed themselves to be hemmed in. There will be enough time for action when the Americans disembark.

In the bay, we see the English who seem to be well positioned beside Admiral Dewey’s squadron, the Germans giving the impression that they have a strategy, the Japanese who come and go, and the French who wait, observing, fully aware their presence will not influence the coming events.

Each fleet is preoccupied with protecting its nationals. On Thursday morning the French delegates came on board, led by the consul and a French engineer who works at the Compagnie General des Tabacs. We discussed the arrangements: the engineer can provide us with a company ship for transporting the maximum number of men, along with their valuable possessions and provisions, when the attack is confirmed. We think that this will happen anytime now. The ship will therefore come alongside and be protected by our cannons. There is room for a large number of persons. France is protecting the Greeks, the Rumanians, the Valaques, and all her former Levantine clientele –without counting the Turks. Many women of easy virtue are from the Levant. They pretend to be Moldo-Valaques, but whether they are or not, they also need our protection. The fear of bombing poses a great number of social problems.

Essentially, the insurgents are at the moment the masters of the situation. It is their word that prevails on land. They are feared by the Spaniards and have given their support to the Americans. Can the Spaniards’ travail be taken seriously? Everything they do could be merely to give the impression that they alone have prepared defensive measures.

That is the situation as it appears to the French diarist aboard the French armored cruiser Bruix.

From wiki:

Class and type........................................Amiral Charner-class armored cruiser
Displacement..........................................4,748 t (4,673 long tons)
Length......................................................110.2 m (361 ft 7 in)
Beam.........................................................14.04 m (46 ft 1 in)
Draught........................................................6.06 m (19 ft 11 in)
Installed power............................................16 × Belleville boilers
............................................................8,300–9,000 PS (6,105–6,619 kW)
Propulsion.............................................2 screws; 2 × triple-expansion steam engines
Speed........................................................17 knots (31 km/h; 20 mph)
Range...................................................4,000 nmi (7,400 km; 4,600 mi) at 10 knots (19 km/h; 12 mph)
Complement...............................................16 officers and 378 enlisted men
Armament....................................................2 × single 194 mm (7.6 in) guns
...................................................................6 × single 138 mm (5.4 in) guns
...................................................................4 × single 65 mm (2.6 in) guns
...................................................................4 × single 47 mm (1.9 in) Hotchkiss guns
...................................................................8 × single 37 mm (1.5 in) 5-barreled revolver guns
...................................................................4 × 450 mm (17.7 in) torpedo tubes
Armour.........................................................Waterline belt: 60–90 mm (2.4–3.5 in)
...................................................................Deck: 40–50 mm (1.6–2.0 in)
...................................................................Gun turrets: 92 mm (3.6 in)
...................................................................Conning tower: 92 mm (3.6 in)

The Bruix is a serious threat to every US warship in Manila Bay. She could not be ignored. And as is apparent from the lieutenant's diary, the French were dealing with the Spanish. They were not "friendly" to the United States by any means.

The Philippine Diary Project Diary entries from Philippine history. Home About Us Diarists Diaries ResourcesIn Focus

About Aime Ernest Motsch (“Lieutenant X”)

About the author: Aime Ernest Motsch (January 1, 1867 — April 30, 1911). Wrote under the pseudonym, “Lieutenant X.” The Philippine publication of his Philippine diary contains the following information:

He was squadron leader in charge of torpedoes on the sole French battleship, the Bruix, anchored then in Manila Bay.

Born in Cernay, a small town of Alsace, on January 1, 1867, Motsch entered the navy at the age of 18 and rose quickly through the ranks. His superiors rated him highly, and found him an excellent and intelligent officer, always exceeding the tasks defined for him…

After commanding a destroyer in Dunkirk from 1899 to 1900, Lieutenant Motsch spent the last ten years of his life commanding destroyers and attending several staff colleges. On April 30, 1911 Motsch, then commander of the frigate Danton, died of typhoid fever in a military hospital in Brest.

About the diary: Published as The Diary of a French Officer on the War in the Philippines 1898, by “Lieutenant X” (Aime Ernest Motsch) Translated from the French by Marietta Enriquez-de La Haye Jousselin, National Historical Institute, Manila, 1994. From the introductory material of the book:

…[Using] the pseudonym “Lieutenant X,” [Motsch] wrote this unofficial account of the battle of Manila, covering the period from April 28 to August 31, 1898…

His keen observation, along with his fluency in English and German, facilitated interviews with the officers of the other ships as well as with important figures and witnesses of this battle…

His official account was published in Paris in 1904, and entitled La Guerre Hispano-Americaine aux Philippines: du 21 avril au 16 aout 1898, par E. Motsch.

The same edition in its bibliography cites the sources of the translated diary as:

Lieutenant X (Aime Ernest Motsch). “La Guerre aux Philippines.” Revue de Paris. 5e anne, tome 4 (Aug. 1, 1898): pp. 512-540; (Aug. 15, 1898); pp. 861-894.

Lieutenant X (Aime Ernest Motsch). “Le Siege de Manille.” Revue de Paris. 6e anne, tome 4 (Oct. 15, 1898): pp. 802-832; “Les Americaines a Manille.” tome 6 (Nov. 15, 1899); pp. 358-394.

We will see the lieutenant again.

Jun 11, 2022 6:04:21 GMT lordroel said:

Cuba: Battle of Guantánamo Bay - Battle of Camp McCalla

Although Lt. Col. Huntington was now assured of naval gunfire support, Camp McCalla was tactically unsound. No attack had been expected, so no trenches were dug. The Marines' artillery had not even been sent ashore. Located on the sands of the open beach, the Marine campsite proved an ideal target for snipers concealed in the brush.

Painting: First hoisting of the Stars and Stripes by the US Marines on Cuban soil, June 11, 1898

At daybreak (05:00), Spanish guerrillas opened fire on the Marines at Camp McCalla from the surrounding brush. Firing a fusillade from their rapid-firing Mauser rifles, the guerrillas advanced towards the camp. After heavy fighting, and supported by the reserve company (Company C) the Marines drove the enemy back into the bush, pursuing the enemy until the chase was abandoned at dark. Two pickets on outpost duty, Privates William Dumphy and James McColgan, who were posted as an early-warning patrol 100 yards ahead of the "Crossroads" forward outpost were later found dead, shot and cut numerous times in the face and body. Their weapons, shoes, belts, and part of their clothing had been taken.

Painting: Gallant defense of Camp McCalla, June 11

The second painting above is more accurate than the first. What is not mentioned in the account is that the Cuban loyalist irregulars, the "guerillas" had mutilated the Marine pickets' corpses after they had been shot. This desecration of the dead, will go hard on future captured "guerillas", who will find their survival chances reduced significantly as a result of this incident.

Jun 11, 2022 6:04:21 GMT lordroel said:

United States - Assistant Secretary Of The Navy Charles H. Allen To Read Admiral William T. Sampson, Commander, North Atlantic Fleet

Washington, D.C.

June,11 [1898]

May, 14, the British consular agent at Guantanamo, Cuba says that in navigable harbor seventeen mine fields floating about two metres below surface. Conversation overheard at Philadelphia, states Morro cliffs Santiago were so mined as to be blown up at will toward our vessels that may be passing in the channel. This seems improbable and probably impracticable.

Sig. Allen
Acting.

The intelligence was bogus.

Last Edit: Jun 11, 2022 16:29:35 GMT by miletus12

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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 12, 2022 3:44:13 GMT

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Post by lordroel on Jun 12, 2022 3:44:13 GMT

Day 54 of the Spanish–American War, June 12th 1898

United States - Sectary of the Navy

NAVY DEPARTMENT, Washington, June 12,1898.

The Honorable the SECRETARY OF WAR. SIR: The following telegram, dated Key West, Fla., 9 a. m., this date, in regard to the convoy for the expedition to Santiago, has been received in the Department from Commodore Remey: "In answer to telegram cipher 'Abdicamur' of yesterday, Indiana, Detroit, Bancroft, Wasp, Manning, Eagle, Wompatuck, Ericsson have returned for convoy duty. Osceola and two armored cruisers from commander in chief North Atlantic Station not yet in. Vesuvius met and has been sent commander in chief >r orth Atlantic force. Ships coaling this morning with difficulty. Rough outside. Water supply practically exhausted. "

REMEY."

It is recommended that the transports sail from Tampa this evening. They should reach the vicinity of Rebecca Shoal to-morrow afternoon, being convoyed to that point by the ships of war now at Tampa. At Rebecca Shoal the Indiana and other ships forming the rest of the convoy will meet the transports, and all proceed together to Santiago. Very respectfully,

CRAS. H. ALLEN, Acting Secretary.

Commodore George C. Remey, Commandant, Key West Naval Base, To Rear Admiral William T. Sampson, Commander, North Atlantic Fleet

NAVAL BASE, KEY WEST

U.S. Flagship Lnacaster, June 12, 18981

My dear Admiral:

A telegram just received announces that the troops will sail from Tampa today; the convoying vessels from Key West will join the expedition near Tortugas tomorrow, and the whole will sail for Santiago.2

If you can spare them, the convoying vessels should be returned for blockade duty; the blockade is too thin.

I have just received your telegram to send provisions. I have sent to the blockade for the collier Lebanon, as being the only vessel available, and will send by her the provisions.

The Resolute I have sent to Tampa for ammunition and had hoped to get her off with the expedition. I shall send her anyway, thinking you may need ammunition.

I am almost constantly getting telegrams to do this and that, and am often forced to the wish that I had the wherewith to do all. With the assistance of more Pay Officers I hope in a little time to straighten out the pay accounts of the small vessels and men in hospitals. It is not an easy thing to do, but will be accomplished in time.

This ship4 was sent to Key West almost empty; no provision whatever for a flagship; required money the day of her arrival.

I find my billet no sinecure, but if I can succeed in being of any material assistance to you, I will be repaid, notwithstanding the many annoyances of the situation.

Very truly yours,

Geo. C. Remey

Commodore Commanding

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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 12, 2022 12:24:10 GMT

Quote

Post by miletus12 on Jun 12, 2022 12:24:10 GMT

Jun 12, 2022 3:44:13 GMT lordroel said:

Day 54 of the Spanish–American War, June 12th 1898

United States - Sectary of the Navy

NAVY DEPARTMENT, Washington, June 12,1898.

The Honorable the SECRETARY OF WAR. SIR: The following telegram, dated Key West, Fla., 9 a. m., this date, in regard to the convoy for the expedition to Santiago, has been received in the Department from Commodore Remey: "In answer to telegram cipher 'Abdicamur' of yesterday, Indiana, Detroit, Bancroft, Wasp, Manning, Eagle, Wompatuck, Ericsson have returned for convoy duty. Osceola and two armored cruisers from commander in chief North Atlantic Station not yet in. Vesuvius met and has been sent commander in chief North Atlantic force. Ships coaling this morning with difficulty. Rough outside. Water supply practically exhausted. "

REMEY."

It is recommended that the transports sail from Tampa this evening. They should reach the vicinity of Rebecca Shoal to-morrow afternoon, being convoyed to that point by the ships of war now at Tampa. At Rebecca Shoal the Indiana and other ships forming the rest of the convoy will meet the transports, and all proceed together to Santiago. Very respectfully,

CRAS. H. ALLEN, Acting Secretary.

See maps.

It is about 450 nautical miles by sea from Tampa Bay to Rebecca Shoal light house. One should be aware of what is not stated in the letter. See further.

That is Tampa Bay. The chief two features are its shallowness, numerous sand bars and the barrier islands which allow or rather constrict safe navigation into the deep north channel into the north bay area, and the loading in 1898 of troops alongside the one shoreline quay seen in previous photographs. It sort of indicates why the bay was a difficult embarkation point.

Incidentally, (See photo) this is where fatso Schaffter and his staff resided, while his command sweltered in mosquito infested tent camps north of old Tampa City along the only railroad line that fed into the port quay of Old Tampa Bay (North bay.). Nice sea breeze at the mouth of the Hillsborough River, there was.

The problems of getting thirty or so transports out of that constricted harbor are only the beginnings of what turns out to be a typical bungled Spanish American War evolution. Here is a chart. (Soundings are in fathoms.) of the rendezvous point where Sampson is supposed to meet these seasick guys in that "rough weather".

Here is the Rendezvous Point marker, the old lighthouse. It marks the only safe channel east of the Dry Tortugas and it is just west of the Marquesa Keys as the light house marks it. The word "idiots" comes to mind when I think of the selection of this light house as the meet spot and the choice of this channel as the pass-through.

Rebecca Shoal is located just east of the US installation called the Dry Tortugas. It did get that name "Dry" without a reason.

Ships coaling this morning with difficulty. Rough outside. Water supply practically exhausted.

That bad weather, Remey mentions, apparently is at Key West anchorage, not at Rebecca Shoal, but it is close enough to indicate the weather at the rendezvous is going to be "unacceptable" for safe passage. They are going to do it anyway.

Jun 12, 2022 3:44:13 GMT lordroel said:

Commodore George C. Remey, Commandant, Key West Naval Base, To Rear Admiral William T. Sampson, Commander, North Atlantic Fleet

NAVAL BASE, KEY WEST

U.S. Flagship Lancaster, June 12, 18981

My dear Admiral:

A telegram just received announces that the troops will sail from Tampa today; the convoying vessels from Key West will join the expedition near Tortugas tomorrow, and the whole will sail for Santiago.2

If you can spare them, the convoying vessels should be returned for blockade duty; the blockade is too thin.

I have just received your telegram to send provisions. I have sent to the blockade for the collier Lebanon, as being the only vessel available, and will send by her the provisions.

The Resolute I have sent to Tampa for ammunition and had hoped to get her off with the expedition. I shall send her anyway, thinking you may need ammunition.

I am almost constantly getting telegrams to do this and that, and am often forced to the wish that I had the wherewith to do all. With the assistance of more Pay Officers I hope in a little time to straighten out the pay accounts of the small vessels and men in hospitals. It is not an easy thing to do, but will be accomplished in time.

This ship4 was sent to Key West almost empty; no provision whatever for a flagship; required money the day of her arrival.

I find my billet no sinecure, but if I can succeed in being of any material assistance to you, I will be repaid, notwithstanding the many annoyances of the situation.

Very truly yours,

Geo. C. Remey

Commodore Commanding

I almost feel sorry for the station commander, Remey, for he is dealing with an imbecile, but he knew the job was going to be tough, when he took the oath of service. As for Sampson, I am not sure if in this sloppy evolution, he is not at the mercy of the army, because it is the army who leased the transports, loaded the transports and formed the transports into that mob of ships he is supposed to escort to Santiago de Cuba. It is however, he, who selected the rendezvous point. So, I do not feel sorry for Sampson.

Last Edit: Jun 12, 2022 13:43:02 GMT by miletus12

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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 13, 2022 2:48:02 GMT stevep likes this

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Post by lordroel on Jun 13, 2022 2:48:02 GMT

Day 55 of the Spanish–American War, June 13th 1898

United States

US President McKinley signs the War Revenue Act of 1898 into law. Passed by Congress on June 10, the act authorizes a tax on amusements, liquor, tea, and tobacco, and requires tax stamps on some business transactions (such as bills of lading, manifests, and marine insurance). It also authorizes $200 million in war bonds, provided that no more than $100 million in bonds is outstanding at any time.

The Rough Riders sailed from Tampa, Florida bound for Santiago de Cuba.

Off Santiago de Cuba, Cuba - North Atlantic Fleet Squadron Bulletin No. 1

U. S. F. S. New York, 1st Rate,

Off Santiago de Cuba, Cuba,

June 13, 1898.

S Q U A D R O N B U L L E T I N N o . 1.

**-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-**

Information has been received that the Army was to leave Tortugas to-day. Unofficial news states it is to come round the west end of Cuba.

****************

The St. Paul from New York, and the Vesuvius from scouting in the Old Bahama Channel arrived to-day. The St. Louis from Mole St. Nicholas <arrived> with despatches. The latter has returned to Mole St. Nicholas. The Collier Scindie, Commander Watson, has arrived at Guantanamo.

****************

Preparations have been made to open a telegraphic office at Guantanamo; it is hoped it will be in operation on the fourteenth, so that dispatches may go via. Mole St. Nicholas.

****************

The firing at Guantanamo has to-day been much less. The total losses have been:--Surgeon Gibbs and four marines killed on the eleventh, and two yesterday−-Sergeant Major Good6 and Private Taurman, the latter by falling off a cliff--. Six marines have been wounded.

****************

Sixty officers and men of the Cuba forces <at Guantanamo> have received arms, clothing and food, and have been of great service. Five hundred more are expected.

United States - Sectary of War

HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,

Tampa, Fla., June 13, 1898.

SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D. C.:

Following telegram received from General Graham:

In reply to your telegram of this date, General Duffield has not yet reported for duty. The staff of that brigade is not organized, officers, except adjutantgeneral, not having reported. Brigade deficient in following articles of equipment: Ninth Massachusetts needs 4 rifles; 198 bayonets and scabbards, 896 blanket bags, 41 canteens, 10 haversacks, 6 meat cans, 43 tin cups, 136 knives, 38 forks, 47 spoons, 29 pistols and cartridge belts, 17 trousers, 108 leggings, 488 overshirts, 383 undershirts,409 drawers. The Thirty-third and Thirty-fourth Michigan need trousers, overshirts, and underclothing; are fully supplied with arms. The brigade needs over 1,000,000 rounds of ammunition to supply 500 per man. Every effort possible is being made to rush equipment as provided in General Orders 54, but I can not control issues from clothing or ordnance depots. It is impossible to state when the brigade will be thoroughly equipped.

"GRAHAM, Major-General."

I request that orders may be given that this brigade be fully equipped at once.

MILES, Major-General Commanding.

Official copy respectfully furnished by mail.

EDW. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

Cuba: Battle of Guantánamo Bay - Battle of Camp McCalla

Marines of the First Battalion are reinforced by about 60 Cubans under Lieutenant Colonel Enrique Thomas. The Cubans had been equipped with rifles and white duck sailor uniforms by Commander McCalla from the USS Marblehead. Familiar with guerrilla tactics, the Cuban insurgents deployed in pairs in front of the camp, burning the brush and undergrowth as they advanced, thus denying to the enemy of cover. USS Marblehead, which had provided shore bombardment on several occasions, steamed down the coast and shelled the well at Cuzco. Nevertheless, the Spanish attack was resumed at dusk, and two more Marines—acting Sergeant Major Henry Good and Private Goode Taurman—were killed.

By nightfall, the Marines were exhausted. They had not slept nor rested for 100 hours. Relief or reinforcements was impossible, since US Army troops had yet to leave the United States.

Off Cienfuegos, Caribbean Sea: Action of 13 June

The Spanish navy 200-ton torpedo gunboat Diego Velázquez under the command of Teniente de Navío de 1ª clase Carranza was dispatched to inspect a steamer near the port of Cienfuegos thinking that it could be El Purísima Concepción, a blockade runner which was expected to arrive to Cienfuegos at that time. Carranza took precautions in case the suspicious steamer proved to be an American warship. Wooden objects were left ashore, and bags of coal were emplaced around the guns to protect their crews from the American fire. The unknown steamer was USS Yankee, a 6,888-ton auxiliary cruiser under Commander Willard H. Brownson armed with 10 5-inch guns, 6 6-pound guns and two Colt machine guns. USS Yankee was carrying out blockade tasks off the port, and was in fact waiting for the arrival of El Purísima Concepción in order to intercept it.

At about 1,400 meters range, the American ship put her helm over, unmasked her port battery, and opened fire. Diego Velázquez opted for a running fight, presenting the smallest possible target and only allowing Yankee to bring one or two of her guns to bear without turning away from her target's course. The Spanish gunboat was hit twice, receiving minor damage. A grenade entered through the starboard hawse and broke the retainers of the redbout, throwing up the parapet of coal. Another grenade pierced the hull of the cone that served as a carriage for one of the guns. Boatswain D. José Cacho Torres, cabo de mar de primera Eustaquio Bilbao, seamen Antonio Ferrer and José González, and gunners Francisco González and Ángel Bermudose were injured. Diego Velázquez fired 193 shots, some of which hit Yankee inflicting some casualties and causing a small fire on board which forced the gunfire to be temporarily suspended.

After 69 minutes of combat, Diego Velázquez reached Cienfuegos, where the wounded men were disembarked and reinforcements were requested to face Yankee, which was exchanging fire with the shore batteries of Cienfuegos. Diego Velázquez exited the port shortly after accompanied by the small gunboats Lince and Cometa, the American ship decided to withdraw from the battle at this point, and the Spanish vessels returned to Cienfuegos.

United States - Assistant Secretary Of The Navy Charles H. Allen To Commodore George C. Remey, Commandant, Key West Naval Base

WASHINGTON, June 13, 1898

Referring to cipher telegram beginning APPRET MARSDEHIA Austrian Minister (1) advises MARIA TERESA (2) at Martinique, desires to enter blockaded ports (3). Permission granted same as to other powers. Inform Watson (4).

Allen, Acting.

Footnote 1: The Austro-Hungarian minister to the United States was Ladislaus Hengelmüller von Hengervár.

Footnote 2: The armored cruiser Kaiserin und Königin Maria Theresia.

Footnote 3: The Maria Theresia did visit Cuba, arriving off Santiago de Cuba on 3 July, the same day the Spanish squadron sortied. The Austro-Hungarian cruiser was mistaken for a Spanish ship and nearly fired upon by Indiana.

Footnote 4: Commo. John C. Watson, Commander, Blockading Squadron.

Last Edit: Jun 13, 2022 2:48:40 GMT by lordroel

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The Spanish–American War (1898) in real time Jun 13, 2022 14:31:58 GMT

Quote

Post by miletus12 on Jun 13, 2022 14:31:58 GMT

Day 55 of the Spanish–American War, June 13th 1898

United States

US President McKinley signs the War Revenue Act of 1898 into law. Passed by Congress on June 10, the act authorizes a tax on amusements, liquor, tea, and tobacco, and requires tax stamps on some business transactions (such as bills of lading, manifests, and marine insurance). It also authorizes $200 million in war bonds, provided that no more than $100 million in bonds is outstanding at any time.

The Rough Riders sailed from Tampa, Florida bound for Santiago de Cuba.

1. It has taken the Americans four months to figure out that this little war is a lot more expensive than they realized. The four American battleships under construction have been refunded to an accelerated schedule. The ammunition shortages have to be made good. Now the government has to train, cloth, feed, and equip a mob of 250,000 soldiers. The navy has doubled in personnel strength from some 20,000 to 40,000 sailors, most of them for the first time, native American born, off for "adventure", instead of the bar room sweepings gathered up internationally shanghaied onto port of call American warships. These naval volunteers are finding themselves as gun crews on anything, from hastily armed harbor tugs to millionaire's yachts. And does one think those levied ships taken up from trade (STUFT) hulls are being used for free? The USG rents those ships, and in many cases like the USS Saint Louis, or the USS Harvard, the civilian crews, as naval auxiliaries.

2. The fifty million dollars that Congress originally appropriated for the war has not been spent yet. Alger will squander it on contracts to some of his cronies, especially certain food processors who will sell the army rotten rations. It should be noted that Nelson Miles wanted the field armies to ship over herds of cxattle and to buy local foodstuffs off the Cuban farmers. "Fresh food is best food." Guess what Merritt does when he lands in the Philippine Islands. As Sherman once expressed it in his own field orders as he Marched Through Georgia; "Forage Liberally."

3. Roosevelt pulled rank and outbluffed the 2nd US Infantry and stole their assigned transport. After the toilets clogged up and the ship rolled its way down to Rebecca Shoal like a drunken Belgian on roller skates and the Rough Riders expectorated the weather deck a new coat of vomitus, TR regretted his actions.

Off Santiago de Cuba, Cuba - North Atlantic Fleet Squadron Bulletin No. 1

U. S. F. S. New York, 1st Rate,

Off Santiago de Cuba, Cuba,

June 13, 1898.

S Q U A D R O N B U L L E T I N N o . 1.

**-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-**

Information has been received that the Army was to leave Tortugas to-day. Unofficial news states it is to come round the west end of Cuba.

****************

The St. Paul from New York, and the Vesuvius from scouting in the Old Bahama Channel arrived to-day. The St. Louis from Mole St. Nicholas <arrived> with despatches. The latter has returned to Mole St. Nicholas. The Collier Scindie, Commander Watson, has arrived at Guantanamo.

****************

Preparations have been made to open a telegraphic office at Guantanamo; it is hoped it will be in operation on the fourteenth, so that dispatches may go via. Mole St. Nicholas.

****************

The firing at Guantanamo has to-day been much less. The total losses have been:--Surgeon Gibbs and four marines killed on the eleventh, and two yesterday−-Sergeant Major Good6 and Private Taurman, the latter by falling off a cliff--. Six marines have been wounded.

****************

Sixty officers and men of the Cuba forces <at Guantanamo> have received arms, clothing and food, and have been of great service. Five hundred more are expected.

4. If it is a choice of coming by rotten weather in the east and through the Windward Passage or good western weather via the Yucatan Strait, which way will the army go? See map.

5. Things at Guantanamo go merrily along as McCalla screws up the gunfire support he promised Huntington.
6. The existent French owned submarine cable will be rerouted to a US laid terminus at the head of the Windward Passage near Mole St Nicholas, Haiti. Yes, the USG is stealing the cable. Time is urgent. The French will be paid later (Maybe.).
7. Sniper fire, an ambush and that Marine fell off the cliff while wandering around in the dark. The surgeon casualty was a war-crime.
8. The banditos, er freedom fighters, showed up for their promised loot.

United States - Sectary of War

HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,

Tampa, Fla., June 13, 1898.

SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D. C.:

Following telegram received from General Graham:

In reply to your telegram of this date, General Duffield has not yet reported for duty. The staff of that brigade is not organized, officers, except adjutant general, not having reported. Brigade deficient in following articles of equipment: Ninth Massachusetts needs 4 rifles; 198 bayonets and scabbards, 896 blanket bags, 41 canteens, 10 haversacks, 6 meat cans, 43 tin cups, 136 knives, 38 forks, 47 spoons, 29 pistols and cartridge belts, 17 trousers, 108 leggings, 488 overshirts, 383 undershirts,409 drawers. The Thirty-third and Thirty-fourth Michigan need trousers, overshirts, and underclothing; are fully supplied with arms. The brigade needs over 1,000,000 rounds of ammunition to supply 500 per man. Every effort possible is being made to rush equipment as provided in General Orders 54, but I can not control issues from clothing or ordnance depots. It is impossible to state when the brigade will be thoroughly equipped.

"GRAHAM, Major-General."

I request that orders may be given that this brigade be fully equipped at once.

MILES, Major-General Commanding.

Official copy respectfully furnished by mail.

EDW. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

9. BG Duffield was a close personal friend of Russell Alger, who gave Henry Duffield a "buddy commission" as a general officer appointment. He, Duffield, is reported as absent without leave, (What else does one expect?). The mob, he 'commanded' are currently unofficered and non-equipped and have shown up in Tampa at camp sans uniforms or field gear. (Also reported.). Meanwhile MG William Montrose Graham has not been relieved of duty and court martialed for incompetence, either.

Cuba: Battle of Guantánamo Bay - Battle of Camp McCalla

Marines of the First Battalion are reinforced by about 60 Cubans under Lieutenant Colonel Enrique Thomas. The Cubans had been equipped with rifles and white duck sailor uniforms by Commander McCalla from the USS Marblehead. Familiar with guerrilla tactics, the Cuban insurgents deployed in pairs in front of the camp, burning the brush and undergrowth as they advanced, thus denying to the enemy of cover. USS Marblehead, which had provided shore bombardment on several occasions, steamed down the coast and shelled the well at Cuzco. Nevertheless, the Spanish attack was resumed at dusk, and two more Marines—acting Sergeant Major Henry Good and Private Goode Taurman—were killed.

By nightfall, the Marines were exhausted. They had not slept nor rested for 100 hours. Relief or reinforcements was impossible, since US Army troops had yet to leave the United States.

10. More of the same. The freedom fighters... er banditos are proving useful.

Off Cienfuegos, Caribbean Sea: Action of 13 June

The Spanish navy 200-ton torpedo gunboat Diego Velázquez under the command of Teniente de Navío de 1ª clase Carranza was dispatched to inspect a steamer near the port of Cienfuegos thinking that it could be El Purísima Concepción, a blockade runner which was expected to arrive to Cienfuegos at that time. Carranza took precautions in case the suspicious steamer proved to be an American warship. Wooden objects were left ashore, and bags of coal were emplaced around the guns to protect their crews from the American fire. The unknown steamer was USS Yankee, a 6,888-ton auxiliary cruiser under Commander Willard H. Brownson armed with 10 5-inch guns, 6 6-pound guns and two Colt machine guns. USS Yankee was carrying out blockade tasks off the port, and was in fact waiting for the arrival of El Purísima Concepción in order to intercept it.

At about 1,400 meters range, the American ship put her helm over, unmasked her port battery, and opened fire. Diego Velázquez opted for a running fight, presenting the smallest possible target and only allowing Yankee to bring one or two of her guns to bear without turning away from her target's course. The Spanish gunboat was hit twice, receiving minor damage. A grenade entered through the starboard hawse and broke the retainers of the redbout, throwing up the parapet of coal. Another grenade pierced the hull of the cone that served as a carriage for one of the guns. Boatswain D. José Cacho Torres, cabo de mar de primera Eustaquio Bilbao, seamen Antonio Ferrer and José González, and gunners Francisco González and Ángel Bermudose were injured. Diego Velázquez fired 193 shots, some of which hit Yankee inflicting some casualties and causing a small fire on board which forced the gunfire to be temporarily suspended.

After 69 minutes of combat, Diego Velázquez reached Cienfuegos, where the wounded men were disembarked and reinforcements were requested to face Yankee, which was exchanging fire with the shore batteries of Cienfuegos. Diego Velázquez exited the port shortly after accompanied by the small gunboats Lince and Cometa, the American ship decided to withdraw from the battle at this point, and the Spanish vessels returned to Cienfuegos.

11. Inconclusive action. The Diego Valesquez is shot up and the El Purísima Concepción which is packed with Krupp goodies is late. She actually will be a no-show.