In regard to the good accomplished by the Red Cross (a question so often asked), can more be said than this? That human life was saved from death by starvation; the homeless were housed, and the naked were clothed, and by our words of counsel and cheer we were enabled to give new hope and life to a people who were in a most pitiable condition. Some who were not on that hard fought field have been so bold as to criticise us, but we who were there with these people in their hour of need, and worked with them heart to heart and shoulder to shoulder, know what we did and the everlasting good accomplished.
I kept a complete record of all goods received and everything given out, from a pint of grits to a barrel of clothing. Committees composed of the most intelligent men and women were formed to investigate and report for each plantation, and as each new applicant appeared, their home was immediately visited, and relief extended according to their needs. In justice to all who came, I can truly say that in very few instances was I imposed upon, as they very seldom stated other than the truth in regard to their condition. This narrative could be extended indefinitely, there is so much to write about, but fear I must come to a close, as my patient readers must be tired by this time. Sincerely trusting that these lines will convey their true meaning to those interested, I will subscribe myself as a sincere admirer of Miss Barton and that grand institution she so fittingly represents.
Eight thousand one hundred and nine souls were in the wards of the Red Cross in this district, in the following proportions on each island:
| Edisto | 1,812 |
| Wadmalaw | 2,123 |
| South John’s | 1,650 |
| North John’s | 2,469 |
| Kiawah | 55 |
| 8,109 |
Upwards of 200 packages of clothing (barrels, boxes and cases) were given out, besides blankets, comforters, etc., special attention being given to those who were sick, old or helpless. Food stuff was distributed in the following amount:
| Grits | 1,527 | bushels. |
| Meal | 163 | bushels. |
| Rice | 672 | pounds. |
| Wheat flour | 23,980 | pounds. |
| Bacon | 7,000 | pounds. |
and other sundries, such as tea, sugar, canned beef, etc. Seeds were supplied, such as peas, tomatoes, okra, melon, bean, corn, etc., of the following amounts:
| Corn | 140 | bushels. |
| Bean | 60 | bushels. |
| Irish potato | 75 | bushels. |
| Assorted seed | 30 | bushels. |
| Assorted seed | 3 | crates. |
| Garden seed | 3 | boxes. |
Statement of Work Done on Each Island.
WADMALAW ISLAND.