PREFACE. ..............................................................................................................................................1

CHAPTER I. RETROSPECT. ................................................................................................................2

CHAPTER II. COMMUNICATIONS, ETC. .........................................................................................6

CHAPTER III. REPORTING. ..............................................................................................................14

CHAPTER IV. CANT TERMS, ETC..................................................................................................23

CHAPTER V. PLEBE CAMP. .............................................................................................................29

CHAPTER VI. STUDIES, ETC...........................................................................................................34

CHAPTER VII. YEARLING CAMP. ..................................................................................................40

CHAPTER VIII. FIRSTCLASS CAMP............................................................................................42

CHAPTER IX. OUR FUTURE HEROES...........................................................................................44

CHAPTER X. TREATMENT..............................................................................................................45

CHAPTER XI. RESUME. ....................................................................................................................65

CHAPTER XII. PLEASURES AND PRIVILEGES. ...........................................................................73

CHAPTER XIII. FURLOUGH. ............................................................................................................81

CHAPTER XIV. INCIDENT, HUMOR, ETC. ....................................................................................83

CHAPTER XV. GRADUATIONIN THE ARMY..........................................................................96

CHAPTER XVI..................................................................................................................................123

THE following pages were written by request. They claim to give an accurate and impartial narrative of my

four years' life while a cadet at West Point, as well as a general idea of the institution there. They are almost

an exact transcription of notes taken at various times during those four years. Any inconsistencies, real or

apparent, in my opinions or in the impressions made upon me, are due to the fact that they were made at

different times at a place where the feelings of all were constantly undergoing material change.

They do not pretend to merit. Neither are they written for the purpose of criticising the Military Academy or

My "notes" have been seen and read. If I please those who requested me to publish them I shall be content, as

HENRY OSSIAN FLIPPER, the eldest of five brothers, and the subject of this narrative, was born in

Thomasville, Thomas County, Georgia, on the 21st day of March, 1856. He and his mother were the property

(?) of Rev. Reuben H. Lucky, a Methodist minister of that place. His father, Festus Flipper, by trade a

shoemaker and carriagetrimmer, was owned by Ephraim G. Ponder, a successful and influential

In 1859 Mr. Ponder, having retired from business, returned to Georgia from Virginia with a number of

mechanics, all slaves,and among whom was the father of young Flipper. He established a number of

manufactories in Atlanta, then a growing inland town of Georgia. He married about this time a beautiful,

accomplished, and wealthy lady. "Flipper," as he was generally called,had married before this, and had been

taken back alone to his native Virginia to serve an apprenticeship under a carriagetrimmer. This served, Mr.

Ponder joined his wife in Thomasville, bringing with him, as stated, a number of mechanics.

All were soon ready for transportation to Atlanta except "Flipper." As he and his wife were each the property

(?) of different persons, there was, under the circumstances, every probability of a separation. This, of course,

would be to them most displeasing. Accordingly an application was made to Mr. Ponder to purchase the wife

and son. This he was, he said, unable to do. He had, at an enormous expense, procured and fitted up a home,

and his coffers were nearly, if not quite, empty. Husband and wife then appealed to Mr. Lucky. He, too, was

averse to parting them, but could not, at the great price asked for him, purchase the husband. He was willing

however, to sell the wife. An agreement was finally made by which the husband paid from his own pocket the

purchasemoney of his own wife and child, this sum to be returned to him by Mr. Ponder whenever

In due time all arrived at Atlanta, where Mr. Ponder had purchased about twentyfive acres of land and had

erected thereon, at great expense, a superb mansion for his own family, a number of substantial frame

Of sixtyfive slaves nearly all of the men were mechanics. All of them except the necessary household

servants, a gardener, and a coachman, were permitted to hire their own time. Mr. Ponder would have

absolutely nothing to do with their business other than to protect them. So that if any one wanted any article

of their manufacture they contracted with the workman and paid him his own price. These bond people were

therefore virtually free. They acquired and accumulated wealth, lived happily, and needed but two other

things to make them like other human beings, viz., absolute freedom and education. But

And through that very mysteriousness this people was destined to attain to the higher enjoyment of life. The

country, trembling under the agitation of the slave question, was steadily seeking a condition of equilibrium

which could be stable only in the complete downfall of slavery. Unknown to them, yet existing, the great

question of the day was gradually being solved; and in its solution was working out the salvation of an

enslaved people. Well did that noblest of women, Mrs. Julia Ward Howe, sing a few years after:

"Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord; He is tramping out the vintage where the grapes of

wrath are stored; He hath loosed the fateful lightning of his terrible swift sword; This truth is marching on.

"I have seen him in the watchfires of a hundred circling camps; They have builded him an altar in the

evening dews and damps; I can read his righteous sentence by the dim and flaring lamps; His day is marching

"I have read a fiery gospel, writ in burnished rows of steel; 'As ye deal with my contemners, so with you my

grace shall deal; Let the Hero, born of woman, crush the serpent with his heel, Since God is marching on.'

"He hath sounded forth the trumpet that shall never call retreat; He is sifting out the hearts of men before his

judgmentseat; Oh! be swift my soul to answer him! be jubilant my feet! Our God is marching on.

"In the beauty of the lilies, Christ was born across the sea, With a glory in his bosom that transfigures you

and me; As he died to make men holy, let us die to make men free, While God is marching on."

Another influence was as steadily tending to the same end. Its object was to educate, to elevate intellectually,

The mistress of this fortunate household, far from discharging the duties and functions of her station, left

them unnoticed, and devoted her whole attention to illegitimate pleasures. The outraged husband appointed a

guardian and returned brokenhearted to the bosom of his own family, and devoted himself till death to

The nature of the marriage contract prevented the selling of any of the property without the mutual consent of

husband and wife. No such consent was ever asked for by either. No one was, therefore, in that state of

affairs, afraid of being sold away from his or her relatives, although their mistress frequently threatened so to

sell them. "I'll send you to Red River," was a common menace of hers, but perfectly harmless, for all knew,

In this condition of affairs the "servants" were even more contented than ever. They hired their time, as usual,

and paid their wages to their mistress, whose only thought or care was to remember when it became due, and

The guardian, an influential stockholder in several railroads, and who resided in another city, made periodical

visits to inspect and do whatever was necessary to a proper discharge of his duties.

Circumstances being highly favorable, one of the mechanics, who had acquired the rudiments of an

education, applied to this dissolute mistress for permission to teach the children of her "servants." She readily

consented, and, accordingly, a night School was opened in the very woodshop in which he worked by day.

Here young Flipper was initiated into the first of the three mysterious R's, viz., "reading 'riting and

'rithmetic." Here, in 1864, at eight years of age, his education began. And the first book he ever studiedI

dare say ever sawwas a confederate reprint of Webster's "Blueback Speller." His then tutor has since

graduated at Westminster College in Pennsylvania, and is, at the time of this writing, United States Consul at

Malaga, Spain, having served in the same capacity for four years at Port Mahon, Spain.

But alas! even this happy arrangement was destined to be disturbed. This dissolute mistress and her slaves,

with all valuable movable property, were compelled to flee before Sherman's victorious arms. Macon, a city

just one hundred and three miles southeast of Atlanta, became the new home of the Flippers. A spacious

dwelling was secured in West Macon. In a part of this was stored away Mrs. Ponder's plate and furniture,

under the guardianship of Flipper, who with his family occupied the rest of the house. Here all was safe. The

terrible fate of Atlanta was not extended to Macon. The only cause of alarm was Wilson, who approached the

city from the east, and, having thrown in a few shells, withdrew without doing further damage or being

molested. Every body was frightened, and it was deemed advisable to transfer Mrs. Ponder's effects to Fort

Valley, a small place farther south. However, before this could be done, it became indisputably known that

After an uneventful stayother than this incident just relatedof nine months in Macon, the office of

custodian was resigned, and although yet a slave, as far as he knew, and without permission from any one,

Flipper returned to Atlanta with his wife and two sons, Henry, the elder, and Joseph, the younger. This was in

the spring of 1865. Atlanta was in ruins, and it appeared a dreary place indeed to start anew on the unfinished

journey of life. Every thing was not destroyed, however. A few houses remained. One of these was occupied.

The people were rapidly returning, and the railroads from Atlanta were rapidly being rebuilt.

During all this time the education of the young Flippers had been necessarily neglected. In the early spring of

1865, the family of an exrebel captain became neighbors of the Flippers, now well to do, and were soon on

the most, friendly terms with them. With remarkable condescension the wife of this exrebel offered to

instruct Henry and Joseph for a small remuneration. The Offer was readily and gladly accepted, and the

education of the two, so long neglected, was taken up again. This private school of only two pupils existed

but a short time. The American Missionary Association having opened better schools, the Flippers were, in

March, 1866, transferred to them. They attended school there till in 1867 the famous Storrs' School was

opened under the control of the American Missionary Association, when they went there. In 1869, the Atlanta

University having been opened under the same auspices, they entered there. At the time of receiving his

appointment Henry was a member of the freshman class of the collegiate department. His class graduated

The following article from a Thomasville paper, published in June, 1874, will give further information

"'It is not generally known that Atlanta has a negro cadet at the United States National Military Academy at

West Point. This cadet is a mulatto boy named Flipper. He is about twenty years old, a stoutish fellow,

weighing perhaps one hundred and fifty pounds, and a smart, bright, intelligent boy. His father is a

"'Flipper has been at the great soldier factory of the nation for a year. He was recommended there by our late

Congressman from the Fifth District, the Hon. J. C. Freeman. Flipper has made a right booming student. In a

class of ninetynine he stood about the middle, and triumphantly passed his examination, and has risen from

"'The only two colored boys at the Academy were the famous Smith and the Atlanta Flipper. It is thought that

Smith at the last examination failed. If so, Atlanta will have the distinguished honor of having the sole

"'Flipper has had the privilege of eating at the same table with the poor white trash; but Smith and Flipper

"'It is an astonishing fact that, socially, the boys from the Northern and Western States will have nothing to

do with these colored brothers. Flipper and Smith were socially ostracized. Not even the Massachusetts boys

will associate with them. Smith has been a little rebellious, and attempted to thrust himself on the white boys;

but the sensible Flipper accepted the situation, and proudly refused to intrude himself on the white boys.

"'The feeling of ostracism is so strong that a white boy who dared to recognize a colored cadet would be

"We copy the above from the Atlanta Herald of last week, for the purpose of remarking that among colored

men we know of none more honorable or more deserving than Flipper, the father of the colored West Point

student of that name. Flipper lived for many years in Thomasville as the servant of Mr. E. G. Ponderwas

the best bootmaker we ever knew, and his character and deportment were ever those of a sensible,

unassuming, gentlemanly white man. Flipper possessed the confidence and respect of his master and all who

knew him. His wife, the mother of young Flipper, was Isabella, a servant in the family of Rev. R. H. Lucky,

of Thomasville, and bore a character equal to that of her husband. Young Flipper was baptized in his infancy

by the venerable Bishop Early. From these antecedents we should as soon expect young Flipper to make his

"It is just possible that some of our readers may not know who Flipper is. For their benefit we make haste to

explain that Flipper is the solitary colored cadet now at West Point. He is in the third class, and stands

fortysix in the class, which numbers eighty five members. This is a very fair standing, and Flipper's friends

declare that he is getting along finely in his studies, and that he is quite up to the standard of the average West

Point student. Nevertheless they intimate that he will never graduate. Flipper, they say, may get as far as the

"A correspondent of the New York Times takes issue with this opinion. He says there are many 'old heads'

who believe Flipper will graduate with honor, and he thinks so too. The grounds for his belief, as he gives

them, are that the officers are gentlemen, and so are the professors; that they believe merit should be

rewarded wherever found; and that they all speak well of Flipper, who is a hard student, as his position in his

class proves. From this correspondent we learn that Flipper is from Georgia; that he has a light,

coffeecolored complexion, and that he 'minds his business and does not intrude his company upon the other

cadets,' though why this should be put down in the list of his merits it is not easy to understand, since, if he

graduates, as this writer believes he will, he will have the right to associate on terms of perfect equality with

the other cadets, and may in time come to command some of them. We are afraid there is some little muddle

"The Chicago Tribune seems to find it difficult to come to any conclusion concerning Flipper's chances for

graduating. It says: 'It is freely asserted that Flipper will never be allowed to graduate; that the prejudice of

the regular army instructors against the colored race is insurmountable, and that they will drive away from the

Academy by persecution of some petty sort any colored boy who may obtain admittance there. The story

does not seem to have any substantial basis; still, it possesses considerable vitality.'

"We don't profess to understand exactly what sort of a story that is which has 'considerable vitality' without

any substantial basis, and can only conclude that the darkness of the subject has engendered a little confusion

in the mind of the Tribune as well as in that of the writer of the Times. But the Tribune acquires more

confidence as it warms in the discussion, and it assures us finally that 'there is, of course, no doubt that some

colored boys are capable of receiving a military education; and eventually the presence of colored officers in

the regular army must be an accepted fact.' Well, we don't know about that 'accepted fact.' The white man is

mighty uncertain, and the nigger won't do to trust to, in view of which truths it would be unwise to bet too

"But let not Flipper wring his flippers in despair, notwithstanding. Let him think of Smith, and take heart of

hope. Smith was another colored cadet who was sent to West Point from South Carolina. Smith mastered

readin', 'ritin', and 'rithmetic, but chemistry mastered Smith.* They gave him three trials, but it was to no

purpose ; so they had to change his base and send him back to South Carolina. But what of that? They've just

made him inspector of militia in South Carolina, with the rank of brigadiergeneral. How long might he have

remained in the army before he would have become 'General Smith?' Why, even Fred Grant's only a

lieutenantcolonel. Smith evidently has reason to congratulate himself upon being 'plucked;' and so the

young gentleman from Georgia, with the 'light, coffeecolored complexion,' if he meets with a similar

misfortune, may console himself with the hope that to him also in his extremity will be extended from some

*Cadet Smith failed in Natural and Experimental Philosophy. In Chemistry he was up to the average. He was

never appointed InspectorGeneral of South Carolina. He was Commandant of Cadets in the South Carolina

Agricultural Institute at Orangeburg, S. C., Which position he held till his death November 29th, 1876.

HAVING given in the previous chapter a brief account of myselfdropping now, by permission, the third

personprior to my appointment, I shall here give in full what led me to seek that appointment, and how I

obtained it. It was while sitting "in his father's quiet shoeshop on Decatur Street"as a local paper had

itthat I overheard a conversation concerning the then cadet from my own district. In the course of the

conversation I learned that this cadet was to graduate the following June; and that therefore a vacancy would

occur. This was in the autumn of 1872, and before the election. It occurred to me that I might fill that

vacancy, and I accordingly determined to make an endeavor to do so, provided the Republican nominee for

Congress should be elected. He was elected. I applied for and obtained the appointment. In 1865 or 1866I

do not now remember which: perhaps it was even later than eitherit was suggested to my father to send me

to West Point. He was unwilling to do so, and, not knowing very much about the place, was reluctant to make

any inquiries. I was then of course too young for admission, being only ten or twelve years old; and knowing

nothing of the place myself, I did not care to venture the attempt to become a cadet.

At the time I obtained the appointment I had quite forgotten this early recommendation of my father's friend;

The suggestion given me by the conversation above mentioned was at once acted upon, and decision made in

a very short time; and so fully was I determined, so absolutely was my mind set on West Point, that I

persisted in my desire even to getting the appointment, staying at the Academy four years, and finally

graduating. The following communications will explain how I got the appointment.*

*It has been impossible for the author to obtain copies of his own letters to the Hon. Congressman who

appointed him, which is to be regretted. The replies are inserted in such order that they will readily suggest

DEAR SIR: Your letter of the 21st, asking me, as memberelect to Congress from this State, to appoint you

cadet to West Point, was received this morning. You are a stranger to me, and before I can comply with your

request you must get your teacher, Mr. James L. Dunning, P.M., Colonel H. P. Fanorr, and other Republicans

to indorse for you. Give me assurance you are worthy and well qualified and I will recommend you.

DEAR SIR: On my arrival from Washington I found your letter of the 19th. I have received an invitation

from the War Department to appoint, or nominate, a legally qualified cadet to the United States Military

As you were the first applicant, I am disposed to give you the first chance; but the requirements are rigid and

strict, and I think you had best come down and see them. If after reading them you think you can undergo the

examination without doubt, I will nominate you. But I do not want my nominee to fail to get in.

DEAR SIR: Your letter of the 24th to hand, and contents noted. While your education may be sufficient, it

requires many other qualifications such as age, height, form, etc.; soundness of lungs, limbs, etc. I will

send you up the requirements, if you desire them, and call upon three competent gentlemen to examine you, if

DEAR SIR: Yours of 26th at hand. I have concluded to send the paper sent me to J. A. Holtzclaw, of Atlanta,

present Collector of Internal Revenue. You can call on him and examine for yourself. If you then think you

can pass, I will designate three men to examine you, and if they pronounce you up to the requirements I will

DEAR SIR: The board of examiners pronounce you qualified to enter the Military Academy at West Point.

You will oblige me by sending me your given name in full, also your age to a month, and the length of time

you have lived in the Fifth District, or in or near Atlanta. I will appoint you, and send on the papers to the

Secretary of War, who will notify you of the same. From this letter to me you will have to be at West Point

DEAR SIR: I this day inclose you papers from the War Department. You can carefully read and then make

up your mind whether you accept the position assigned you. If you should sign up, direct and forward to

proper authorities, Washington, D. C. If you do not accept, return the paper to my address, Griffin, Ga.

The papers, three in number, referred to in the above letter, are the following:

SIR: You are hereby informed that the President has conditionally selected you for appointment as a Cadet of

Should you desire the appointment, you will report in person to the Superintendent of the Academy between

the 20th and 25th days of May, 1873, when, if found on due examination to possess the qualifications

required by law and set forth in the circular hereunto appended, you will be admitted, with pay from July 1st,

1873, to serve until the following January, at which time you will be examined before the Academic Board of

the Academy. Should the result of this examination be favorable, and the reports of your personal, military,

and moral deportment be satisfactory, your warrant of appointment, to be dated July 1st, 1873, will be

delivered to you; but should the result of your examination, or your conduct reports be unfavorable, you will

be discharged from the military service, unless otherwise recommended, for special reasons, by the Academic

Your attention is particularly directed to the accompanying circular, and it is to be distinctly understood that

this notification confers upon you no right to enter the Military Academy unless your qualifications agree

fully with its requirements, and unless you report for examination within the time specified.

You are requested to immediately inform the Department of your acceptance or declination of the

I. Candidates must be actual bona fide residents of the Congressional district or Territory for which their

appointments are made, and must be over seventeen and under twentytwo years of age at the time of

entrance into the Military Academy; but any person who has served honorably and faithfully not less than one

year as an officer or enlisted man in the army of the United States, either as a Volunteer, or in the Regular

service, during the war for the suppression of the rebellion, shall be eligible for appointment up to the age of

twentyfour years. They must be at least five feet in height, and free from any infectious or immoral disorder,

and, generally, from any deformity, disease, or infirmity which may render them unfit for arduous military

service. They must be proficient in Reading and Writing; in the elements of English Grammar; in Descriptive

Geography, particularly of our own country, and in the History of the United States.

In Arithmetic, the various operations in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, reduction, simple

and compound proportion, and vulgar and decimal fractions, must be thoroughly understood and readily

1. Feeble constitution and muscular tenuity; unsound health from whatever cause; indications of former

disease; glandular swellings, or other symptoms of scrofula. 2. Chronic cutaneous affections, especially of the

scalp. 3. Severe injuries of the bones of the head; convulsions. 4. Impaired vision, from whatever cause;

inflammatory affections of the eyelids; immobility or irregularity of the iris; fistula, lachrymalis, etc., etc. 5.

Deafness; copious discharge from the ears. 6. Loss of many teeth, or the teeth generally unsound. 7.

Impediment of speech. 8. Want of due capacity of the chest, and any other indication of a liability to a

pulmonic disease. 9. Impaired or inadequate efficiency of one or both of the superior extremities on account

of fractures, especially of the clavicle, contraction of a joint, extenuation, deformity, etc., etc. 10. An unusual

excurvature or incurvature of the spine. 11. Hernia. 12. A varicose state of the veins of the scrotum or

spermatic cord (when large), sarcocele, hydroccle, hemorrhoids, fistulas. 13. Impaired or inadequate

efficiency of one or of both of the inferior extremities on account of varicose veins, fractures, malformation

(flat feet, etc.), lameness, contraction, unequal length, bunions, overlying or supernumerary toes, etc., etc. 14.

Every person appointed, upon arrival at West Point, is submitted to a rigid medical examination, and if any

causes of disqualification are found to exist in him to such a degree as may now or hereafter impair his

No person who has served in any capacity in the military or naval service of the socalled Confederate States

during the late rebellion can receive an appointment as cadet at the Military Academy.

II. The pay of a cadet is $500 per annum, with one ration per day, to commence with his admission into the

III. Each cadet must keep himself supplied with the following mentioned articles, viz.:

One gray cloth coatee; one gray cloth riding jacket; one regulation greatcoat; two pairs of gray cloth

pantaloons, for winter; six pairs of drilling pantaloons for summer; one fatiguejacket for the encampment;

one black dress cap; one forage cap; one black stock; *two pairs of ankleboots; *six pairs of white gloves;

two sets of white belts; *seven shirts and twelve collars; *six pairs winter socks; *six pairs summer socks;

*four pairs summer drawers; *three pairs winter drawers; *six pockethandkerchiefs; *six towels; *one

clothes bag, made of ticking; *one clothesbrush; *one hairbrush; *one toothbrush; *one comb; one

mattress; one pillow; *two pillowcases; *two pairs sheets; one pair blankets; *one quilted bedcover; one

chair; one tumbler; *one trunk; one accountbook; and will unite with his room mate in purchasing, for

their common use, one lookingglass, one washstand, one washbasin, one pail, and one broom, and shall

he required to have one table, of the pattern that may be prescribed by the Superintendent.

The articles marked thus * candidates are required to bring with them; the others are to be had at West Point

at regulated prices, and it is better for a candidate to take with him as little clothing of any description as is

possible (excepting what is marked), and no more money than will defray his travelling expenses; but for the

parent or guardian to send to "The Treasurer of the Military Academy" a sum sufficient for his necessary

The expenses of the candidate for board, washing, lights, etc., prior to admission, will be about $5 per week,

and immediately after being admitted to the Institution he must be provided with an outfit of uniform, etc.,

the cost of which will be $88.79. If, upon arrival, he has the necessary sum to his credit on the books of the

Treasurer, he will start with many advantages, in a pecuniary point of view, over those whose means are more

limited, and who must, if they arrive, as many do, totally unprovided in this way, go in debt on the credit of

their pay a burden from which it requires many months to free themselves; while, if any accident compels

No cadet can receive money, or any other supplies, from his parents, or from any person whomsoever,

IV. If the candidate be a minor, his acceptance must be accompanied by the written consent of his parent or

guardian to his signing articles, binding himself to serve the United States eight years from the time of his

V. During the months of July and August the cadets live in camp, engaged only in military duties and

The academic duties and exercises commence on the 1st of September, and continue till about the end of

The newly appointed cadets are examined at the Academy prior to admission, and those not properly

Examinations of the several classes are held in January and June, and at the former such of the new cadets as

are found proficient in studies and have been correct in conduct are given the particular standing in their class

to which their merits entitle them. After either examination cadets found deficient in conduct or studies are

discharged from the Academy, unless, for special reasons in each case, the Academic Board should otherwise

These examinations are very thorough, and require from the cadet a close and persevering attention to study,

without evasion or slighting of any part of the course, as no relaxations of any kind can be made by the

VI. A sound body and constitution, a fixed degree of preparation, good natural capacity, an aptitude for study,

industrious habits, perseverance, an obedient and orderly disposition, and a correct moral deportment are such

essential qualifications that candidates knowingly deficient in any of these respects should not, as many do,

subject themselves and their friends to the chances of future mortification and disappointment, by accepting

appointments to the Academy and entering upon a career which they can not successfully pursue.

Candidates must be able to read with facility from any book, giving the proper intonation and pauses, and to

write portions that are read aloud for that purpose, spelling the words and punctuating the sentences properly.

In ARITHMETIC they must be able to perform with facility examples under the four ground rules, and hence

must be familiar with the tables of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, and be able to perform

Add together two hundred and thirtyfour thousandths (.234), twentysix thousandths (.026), and three

Subtract one hundred and sixtyone ten thousandths (.0161) from twentyfive hundredths (.25).

They must also be able to change vulgar fractions into decimal fractions, and decimals into vulgar fractions,

Change one hundred and two thousandths (.102) into a vulgar fraction of the same value.

In simple and compound proportion, examples of various kinds will be given, and candidates will be

In ENGLISH GRAMMAR candidates will be required to exhibit a familiarity with the nine parts of speech

and the rules in relation thereto; must be able to parse any ordinary sentence given to them, and, generally,

must understand those portions of the subject usually taught in the higher academies and schools throughout

the country, comprehended under the heads of Orthography, Etymology, Syntax, and Prosody.

In DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY they are to name, locate, and describe the natural grand and political

divisions of the earth, and be able to delineate any one of the States or Territories of the American Union,

In HISTORY they must be able to name the periods of the discovery and settlement of the North American

continent, of the rise and progress of the United States, and of the successive wars and political

Mathematics...............Davies' Boudon's Algebra. Davies' Legendre's Geometry and Trigonometry. Church's

Descriptive Geometry. French Language...........Bolmar's Levizac's Grammar and Verb Book. Agnel's Tabular

System. Berard's Lecons Francaises. *Spier's and Surenne's Dictionary. Tactics of Artillery......Practical

Instruction in the and Infantry Schools of the Soldier, Company, and Battalion. Practical Instruction in

Artillery. Use of Small Arms.........Instruction in Fencing and Bayonet Exercise.

Mathematics...............Church's Descriptive Geometry, with its applications to Spherical Projections. Church's

Shades, Shadows and Perspective. Davies' Surveying. Church's Analytical Geometry. Church's Calculus.

French Language...........Bolmar's Levizac's Grammar and Verb Book. Berard's Lecons Francaises. Chapsal's

Lecons Et Modeles de Litterature Francaise. Agnel's Tabular System. Rowan's Morceaux Choisis des Auteurs

Modernes. *Spier's and Surenne's Dictionary. Spanish...................Josse's Grammar. Morales' Progressive

Reader. Ollen Dorff's Oral Method applied to the Spanish, by Velasquez and Simonne. Seoane's Neuman

and Baretti's Dictionary. Drawing...................Topography, etc. Art of Penmanship. Tactics of

Infantry,......Practical Instruction in the Artillery, and Cavalry Schools of the Soldier, Company, and

Natural and Experimental..Bartlett's Mechanics. Bartlett's Philosophy Acoustics and Optics. Bartlett's

Astronomy. Chemistry.................Fowne's Chemistry. Chemical Physics, from Miller.

Drawing...................Landscape. Pencil and Colors. Tactics of Infantry,......Practical Instruction in the

Artillery, and Cavalry Schools of the Soldier, Company, and Battalion. Practical Instruction in Artillery and

Cavalry. Practical Military........Myers' Manual of Signals. Engineering Practical and Theoretical Instruction

Military and Civil........Mahan's Field Fortification. Engineering, and Mahan's Outlines of Sciences of War.

Permanent Fortification. Mahan's Fortification and Stereotomy. Mahan's Advanced Guard and Outpost, etc.

*Moseley's Mechanics of Engineering. Mineralogy and Geology....Dana's Mineralogy. Hitchcock's Geology.

Ethics and Law............French's Practical Ethics. Halleck's International Law. Kent's Commentaries (portion

on Constitutional Law). Law and Military Law, by Prof. French. Benet's Military Law and the Practice of

Courts Martial. Tactics of Artillery,.....United States Tactics for Cavalry, and Infantry Calvary. Practical

Instruction in the Schools of the Soldier, Company, and Battalion. Practical Instruction in Artillery and

Cavalry. Ordnance and Gunnery......Benton's Ordnance and Gunnery. Practical Pyrotechny. Practical

Military........Practical Instruction in Engineering fabricating Fascines, Sap Faggots, Gabions, Hurdles,

Saprollers, etc.; manner of laying out and constructing Gun and Mortar Batteries, Field Fortific ations and

Works of Siege; formation of Stockades, Abatis, and other military obstacles; and throwing and dismantling

Pontoon Bridges. Myer's Manual of Signals. Practical Instruction in Military Signaling and Telegraphy.

The second paper was a printed blank, a letter of acceptance or nonacceptance, to be filled up, as the case

may be, signed by myself, countersigned by my father, and returned to Washington, D. C.

It is suggested to all candidates for admission into the Military Academy that, before leaving their place of

residence for West Point, they should cause themselves to be thoroughly examined by a competent physician,

and by a teacher or instructor in good standing By such an examination any serious physical disqualification,

or deficiency in mental preparation, would be revealed, and the candidate probably spared the expense and

trouble of a useless journey and the mortification of rejection. The circular appended to the letter of

It should be understood that the informal examination herein recommended is solely for the convenience and

benefit of the candidate himself, and can in no manner affect the decision of the Academic and Medical

NOTE.There being no provision whatever for the payment of the travelling expenses of either accepted or

rejected candidates for admission, no candidate should fail to provide himself in advance with the means of

returning to his home, in case of his rejection before either of the Examining Boards, as he may otherwise be

put to considerable trouble, inconvenience, and even suffering, on account of his destitute situation. If

admitted, the money brought by him to meet such a contingency can be deposited with the Treasurer on

After I had secured the appointment the editor of one of our local papers, which was at the time publishing

weekly, I thinkbrief biographies of some of the leading men of the city, together with cuts of the persons

themselves, desired to thus bring me into notoriety. I was duly consulted, and, objecting, the publication did

not occur. My chief reason for objecting was merely this: I feared some evil might befall me while passing

through Georgia en route for West Point, if too great a knowledge of me should precede me, such, for

At this interview several other personswhite, of coursewere present, and one of themafter relating the

trials of Cadet Smith and the circumstances of his dismissal, which, apropos, had not yet occurred, as he

would have me believe advised me to abandon altogether the idea of going to West Point, for, said he,

"Them northern boys wont treat you right." I have a due proportion of stubbornness in me, I believe, as all of

the negro race are said to have, and my Southern friend might as well have advised an angel to rebel as to

have counselled me to resign and not go. He was convinced, too, before we separated, that no change in my

determination was at all likely to occur. Next day, in a short article, the fact of my appointment was

mentioned, and my age and degree of education. Some days after this, while in the postoffice, a gentleman

beckoned to me, and we withdrew from the crowd. He mentioned this article, and after relatingindeed,

repeating, to my amusement, the many hardships to which I should be subjected, and after telling me he had a

very promising soncandid, wasn't he?whom he desired to have educated at West Point, offered me for

my appointment the rather large sum of five thousand dollars. This I refused instantly. I had so set my mind

on West Point that, having the appointment, neither threats nor excessive bribes could induce me to

relinquish it, even if I had not possessed sufficient strength of character to resist them otherwise. However, as

I was a minor, I referred him to my father. I have no information that he ever consulted him. If he had, my

reply to him would have been sustained. I afterward had reason to believe the offer was made merely to test

me, as I received from strangers expressions of confidence in me and in my doing faithfully all that might

MAY 20th, 1873! Auspicious day! From the deck of the little ferryboat that steamed its way across from

Garrison's on that eventful afternoon I viewed the hills about West Point, her stone structures perched

thereon, thus rising still higher, as if providing access to the very pinnacle of fame, and shuddered. With my

mind full of the horrors of the treatment of all former cadets of color, and the dread of inevitable ostracism, I

The little vessel having been moored, I stepped ashore and inquired of a soldier there where candidates

should report. He very kindly gave me all needed information, wished me much success, for which I thanked

him, and set out for the designated place. I soon reached it, and walked directly into the adjutant's office. He

received me kindly, asked for my certificate of appointment, and receiving thator assurance that I had it: I

do not now remember whichdirected me to write in a book there for the purpose the name and occupation

of my father, the State, Congressional district, county and city of his residence, my own full name, age, State,

county, and place of my birth, and my occupation when at home. This done I was sent in charge of an orderly

The impression made upon me by what I saw while going from the adjutant's office to barracks was certainly

not very encouraging. The rear windows were crowded with cadets watching my unpretending passage of the

area of barracks with apparently as much astonishment and interest as they would, perhaps, have watched

Having reached another office, I was shown in by the orderly. I walked in, hat in handnay, rather started

in when three cadets, who were seated in the room, simultaneously sprang to their feet, and welcomed me

"Well, sir, what do you mean by coming into this office in that manner, sir? Get out of here, sir."

I walked out, followed by one of them, who, in a similar strain, ordered me to button my coat, get my hands

"Now, sir," said he, leaving me, "when you are ready to come in, knock at that door," emphasizing the word

The door was open. I knocked. He replied, "Come in." I went in. I took my position in front of and facing

him, my heels together, head up, the palms of my hands to the front, and my little fingers on the seams of my

pantaloons, in which position we habitually carried them. After correcting my position and making it

sufficiently military to suit himself, one of them, in a much milder tone, asked what I desired of them. I told

him I had been sent by the adjutant to report there. He arose, and directing me to follow him, conducted me to

the bathrooms. Having discharged the necessary duty there, I returned and was again put in charge of the

orderly, who carried me to the hospital. There I was subjected to a rigid physical examination, which I

"stood" with the greatest ease. I was given a certificate of ability by the surgeon, and by him sent again to the

adjutant, who in turn sent me to the treasurer. From him I returned alone to barracks.

The reception given to "plebes" upon reporting is often very much more severe than that given me. Even

members of my own class can testify to this. This reception has, however, I think, been best described in an

"How dare you come into the presence of your superior officer in that grossly careless and unmilitary

manner? I'll have you imprisoned. Stand, attention, sir!" (Even louder than before.)

don'tletmeseeyouwearingstanding collarsagain. Standsteady, sir. You've evidently mistaken your

profession, sir. In any other service, or at the seat of war, sir, you would have been shot, sir, without trial, sir,

The effect of such words can be easily imagined. A "plebe" will at once recognize the necessity for absolute

obedience, even if he does know all this is hazing, and that it is doubtless forbidden. Still "plebes" almost

invariably tremble while it lasts, and when in their own quarters laugh over it, and even practise it upon each

On the way to barracks I met the squad of "beasts" marching to dinner. I was ordered to fall in, did so,

marched to the mess hall, and ate my first dinner at West Point. After dinner we were marched again to

barracks and dismissed. I hastened to my quarters, and a short while after was turned out to take possession of

my baggage. I lugged it to my room, was shown the directions on the back of the door for arrangement of

articles, and ordered to obey them within half an hour. The parts of the regulations referred to are the

The particular attention of Orderlies is directed to those paragraphs of the Regulations for the U. S. Military

The hours of Recitation of each Cadet will be posted on the back of the door of his room. When a room is

being washed out by the policeman, on reporting to the Officer of the Day, and stating to him the number of

some room in his own Division he wishes to visit, a Cadet will be permitted to visit that particular room until

his own can be occupied. The uniform coat will be worn from 8 till 10 A.M.; at Inspection before 10 A.M.

the coat will be buttoned throughout; at Sunday Morning Inspection gloves and sidearms will also be worn.

After 10 A.M. any uniform garment or dressinggown may be worn in their own rooms, but at no time will

Cadets be in their shirt sleeves unnecessarily. During the "Call to Quarters," between "Inspection Call" in

the morning and "Tattoo," the following Arrangement of Furniture, etc., will be required:

Cartridge Boxes, Waist Belts, Sabres, Forage Caps Hung on pegs near gunrack shelf.

BedsteadsIn alcove, against side wall of the room, the head against the back wall.

BeddingMattress to be folded once; Blankets and Comforters, each one to be neatly and separately folded,

so that the folds shall be of the width of an ordinary pillow, and piled at the head of the BEDSTEAD in the

following order, viz.: MATTRESS, SHEETS, PILLOWS, BLANKETS, and COMFORTERS, the front edge

of sheets, pillows, etc., to be vertical. On Sunday afternoons the BEDS may be made down and used.

BooksOn the top of the Press, against the wall, and with the backs to the front. BRUSHES (tooth and hair),

COMBS, SHAVING IMPLEMENTS and MATERIALS, such small boxes as may be allowed, vials, etc., to

be neatly arranged on the upper shelf. BELTS, COLLARS, GLOVES, HANDKERCHIEFS, SOCKS, etc., to

be neatly arranged on the second shelf from the top. SHEETS, PILLOWCASES, SHIRTS, DRAWERS,

WHITE PANTS, etc., to be neatly arranged on the other shelves, the heaviest articles on the lower shelves.

ArrangementAll articles of the same kind are to be carefully and neatly placed in separate piles. The folded

edges of these articles to be to the front, and even with the front edge of the shelf. Nothing will be allowed

between these piles of clothing and the back of the press, unless the want of room on the front edge renders it

Shoes and OverShoesTo be kept clean, dusted, and arranged in a line where they can be seen by the

Woollen Clothing, DressingGown, and ClothesBag To be hung on the pegs in alcove in the following

general order, from the front of the alcove to the back: OverCoat, DressingGown, Uniform Coats, Jackets,

BroomTo be kept behind the door. TIN BOX for CLEANING MATERIALSTo be kept clean and in the

fireplace. SPITTOON To be kept on one side of the hearth near mantelpiece. CHAIRS and TABLES

On no occasion to be in alcoves, the chairs, when not in use, to be against the owners' tables.

LOOKINGGLASSAt the centre of the mantelpiece. WASHSTANDTo be kept clean, in front and

against alcove partition. WASHBASINTo be kept clean, and inverted on the top of the Washstand.

WATERBUCKET To be kept on shelf of washstand. SLOPBUCKET To be kept near to and on

side of Washstand, opposite door. Baskets, Pictures, Clocks, Statues, Trunks, and large Boxes will NOT be

CurtainsWINDOWCURTAINSOnly uniform allowed, and to be kept drawn back during the day.

ALCOVE CURTAINSOnly uniform allowed, and to be kept drawn, except between "Tattoo" and

"Reveille" and when dressing. CURTAINS OF CLOTHESPRESSTo be kept drawn, except when

At the end of the time specified every article was arranged and the cadet corporal returned to inspect. He

walked deliberately to the clothespress, and, informing me that every thing was arranged wrong, threw

every article upon the floor, repeated his order, and withdrew. And thus three times in less than two hours did

I arrange and he disarrange my effects. I was not troubled again by him till after supper, when he inspected

again, merely opening the door, however, and looking in. He told me I could not go to sleep till "tattoo." Now

tattoo, as he evidently used it, referred in some manner to time, and with such reference I had not the remotest

idea of what it meant. I had no knowledge whatever of military terms or customs. However, as I was also told

that I could do any thingwriting, etc.I might wish to do, I found sufficient to keep me awake until he

again returned and told me it was then tattoo, that I could retire then or at any time within half an hour, and

that at the end of that time the light must be extinguished and I must be in bed. I instantly extinguished it and

Thus passed my first half day at West Point, and thus began the military career of the fifth colored cadet. The

other four were Smith of South Carolina, Napier of Tennessee, Howard of Mississippi, and Gibbs of Florida.

What I had seen and experienced during the few hours from my arrival till tattoo filled me with fear and

apprehension. I expected every moment to be insulted or struck, and was not long in persuading myself that

the various reports which I had heard concerning Smith were trueI had not seen him yet, or, if I had, had

not recognized himand that my life there was to be all torture and anguish. I was uneasy and miserable,

ever thinking of the regulations, verbal or written, which had been given me. How they haunted me! I kept

repeating them over and over, fearful lest I might forget and violate them, and be dismissed. If I wanted any

thing or wished to go anywhere, I must get permission of the cadet officers on duty over us. To get such

permission I must enter their office cleanly and neatly dressed, and, taking my place in the centre of the

room, must salute, report my entrance, make known my wants, salute again, and report my departure.* At the

instant I heard the sound of a drum I must turn out at a run and take my place in the ranks.

*Somewhat after this fashion: "Candidate F, United States Military Academy, reports his entrance into

this office, sir." "Well, sir, what do you want in this office?" "I desire permission, sir, to walk on public lands

till retreat." "No, sir, you can't walk on public lands till retreat. Get out of my sight." "Candidate F,

At five o'clock the next morning two unusual sounds greeted my earsthe reveille, and a voice in the hall

"Candidates, turn out promptly!" In an astonishingly short time I had dressed, "turned out," and was in ranks.

We stood there as motionless as statues till the fifers and drummers had marched up to barracks, the rolls of

the companies had been called, and they themselves dismissed. We were then dismissed, our roll having been

also called. We withdrew at a run to our quarters and got them ready for inspection, which, we were

informed, would take place at the expiration of half an hour. At the end of this time our quarters were

inspected by a corporal. In my own room he upset my bedding, kicked my shoes into the middle of the room,

and ordered me to arrange them again and in better order. This order was obeyed immediately. And this

upsetting was done in every room, as I learned afterward from the occupants, who, strange to say, manifested

no prejudice then. 'Twas not long ere they learned that they were prejudiced, and that they abhorred even the

Just before, or perhaps just after breakfast, our quarters were again inspected. This time I was somewhat

And this with other things shows there was a friendly feeling toward me from the first. After having thus

expressed himself, he directed me to print my name on each of four pieces of paper, and to tack them up in

certain places in the room, which he indicated to me. I did this several times before I could please him; but at

last succeeded. Another corporal visited me during the day and declared everything out of order, although I

had not touched a single thing after once satisfying the first corporal. Of course I had to rearrange them to suit

At eleven o'clock the mail came. I received a letter, and to my astonishment its postmark was "West Point, N.

Y., May 21st." Of course I was at a loss to know who the writer was. I turned it over and over, looked at it,

*This letter by some means has been misplaced, and all efforts to find it, or to discover what its exact

contents were, have failed. However, it was from James Webster Smith, the first and then only cadet of color

at West Point. It reassured me very much, telling me not to fear either blows or insults, and advising me to

avoid any forward conduct if I wished also to avoid certain consequences, "which," said the writer, "I have

learned from sad experience," would be otherwise inevitable. It was a sad letter. I don't think any thing has so

affected me or so influenced my conduct at West Point as its melancholy tone. That "sad experience" gave

me a world of warning. I looked upon it as implying the confession of some great error made by him at some

This was another surprisea welcome surprise, however. I read it over several times. It showed me plainly

that Smith had not been dismissed, as had been reported to me at home. I at once formed a better opinion of

The candidates now reported rapidly, and we, who had reported the day previous, were comparatively

undisturbed. At four o'clock I visited Smith at his quarters by permission. My visit was necessarily a short

one, as he was then preparing for drill. It sufficed, however, for us to become acquainted, and for me to

receive some valuable advice. An hour and place were designated for us to meet next day, and I took my

leave of him. The "plebes" turned out en masse, walked around the grounds and witnessed the drilling of the

battalion. We enjoyed it immensely. They were that day skirmishing and using blank cartridges. We thought

We had quite a lengthy conversation about the fine appearance of the cadets, their forms, so straight and

manly, evoking our greatest admiration. This, alas! was our only conversation on any subject. The gentleman

discovered ere long that he too was prejudiced, and thus one by one they "cut" me, whether for prudential

I went into the office one day, and standing uncovered at about the middle of the room, in the position of the

"Candidate Flipper, United States Military Academy, reports his entrance into this office, sir."

"I desire permission to visit Smith, sir," answered I, thoughtlessly saying "Smith," instead of "Mr" or "Cadet

He instantly sprang from his seat into rather close proximity to my person and angrily yelled:

"Well, sir, I want to hear you say 'Mr. Smith.' I want you to understand, sir, he is a cadet and you're a 'plebe,'

and I don't want to see such familiarity on your part again, sir," putting particular emphasis on "Mr."

Having thus delivered himself he resumed his seat, leaving me, I imagine, more scared than otherwise.

Without condescending to notice for the time my request he gave the interview a rather ludicrous turn, I

"Oh no, sir," replied I, smiling, as he also was, for I had just discovered the drift of his questions. After

mischievously studying my countenance for a moment, he returned to the original subject and queried,

I considered the permission granted, and hastily withdrew to take advantage of it.

Between breakfast and supper those of us who had been there at least a day had quite a pleasant time. We

were not troubled with incessant inspections or otherwise. We either studied for examination or walked

around the grounds. At or near seven o'clock, the time of retreat parade, we were formed near our barracks

and inspected. Our ranks were opened and the cadet lieutenant inspected our clothing and appearance

At this we would smile, when the lieutenant, sergeant, or corporal would jump at us and yell:

"Wipe that smile off your face, sir! What do you mean, sir, by laughing in ranks?"

The inspection would be continued. Some one, unable to restrain himselfthe whole affair was so

Having been once directed not to reply in ranks, the poor "plebe" would stand mute.

"Nothing! Well, sir, you're a pretty thing to be grinning at nothing. Get in ranks."

The inspection would, after many such interruptions, be continued. Ranks would at length be closed and the

command, "In place, rest!" given. The battalion would march in from parade at double time and form in the

area to our rear. The delinquencies of the day previous would then be published by the cadet adjutant.

What most strikes a "plebe" is this same publication. He hasn't the remotest idea of what it is. Not a word

uttered by the adjutant is understood by him. He stands and wonders what it is. A perfect jargon of words,

unintelligible and meaningless to him! I remember distinctly how I used to wonder, and how I was laughed at

when I asked for information concerning it. We "plebes" used to speak of it often, and wonder if it was not

French. When we were better acquainted with the rules and customs of the Academy we learned what it was.

ADAMS.Late at reveille rollcall. BEJAY.Sentinel not coming to "Arms, Port," when addressed by the

officer of the day. SAME.Not conversant with orders at same. BARNES.Same at same.

SAME.Sentinel, neglect of duty, not requiring cadet leaving his post to report his departure and

destination. SAME.Hanging head, 4 P.M. BULOW.Dust on mantel at inspection, 9.30 A.M.

SAME.Executing manual of arms with pointer in sectionroom, 9 A.M. SAME.Using profane

expression, 1 P.M. CULLEN.Out of bed at taps. DOUNS.Light in quarters, 11 p.m. SAME.Not

*For these delinquencies the cadets are allowed to write explanations. If the offence is absence from quarters

or any duty without authority, or is one committed in the Academical Department, called an Academical

Delinquency, such as not being prepared on some lesson, an explanation is required and must be written. For

all other offences the cadet can write an explanation or not as he chooses. If the explanation is satisfactory,

the offence is removed and he gets no demerits, otherwise he does. For form of explanation see Chapter X.,

On the 26th of May, another colored candidate reported. It is said he made the best show at the preliminary

examination. Unfortunately, however, he was "found" at the following semiannual examination. He was

brought up to my quarters by a corporal, and I was ordered to give him all instruction which had previously

been given me. This I did, and his first days at West Point were much more pleasant than mine had been.

The candidates had now all reported, and Monday afternoon, May 28th, we were each given by the Adjutant

in person a slip of paper upon which was written the number of each man's name in an alphabetically

arranged roll. This we had special directions to preserve. The next day we were marched up to the Drawing

Academy, and examined in grammar, history, and geography; the following day in orthography and reading.

On the same day, also, we were required to write out a list of all the textbooks we had used in our previous

school days. The day following we were divided into sections and marched to the library, where the

Academic Board was in readiness to examine us in mathematics. It took quite a while to examine our class of

more than one hundred members thus orally. I am not positive about the dates of the examination. I know it

Not many days after this the result of the examination was made known to us. The familiar cry, "Candidates,

turn out promptly," made at about noon, informed us that something unusual was about to occur. It was a

fearful moment, and yet I was sure I had "passed." The only questions I failed on were in geography. I stood

motionless while the order was being read until I heard my name among the accepted ones. I felt as if a great

burden had been removed from my mind. It was a beginning, and if not a good one, certainly not a bad one.

Now that the examination was over and the deficient ones gone, we were turned out for drill every morning at

halfpast five o'clock and at four in the afternoon. We were divided into squads of one each, and drilled

twice a day in the "settings up" until about June 20th. After a few drills, however, the squads were

consolidated into others of four, six, and eight each. The surplus drillmasters were "turned in." Their hopes

were withered, for it was almost a certainty that those who were "turned in" would not be "made." They

expected to be "made" on their proficiency in drilling, and when it was shown by being "turned in" that others

had been thought better drillmasters, they were not a little disappointed. How they "boned" tactics! What

proficiency they manifested! How they yelled out their commands! What eagerness they showed to correct

errors, etc. And yet some could not overcome their propensity for hazing, and these were of course turned in.

Not always thus, however. Those who were not "turned in" were not always "made" corporals. Often those

"Plebe drill," or, more familiarly, "squad drill," has always been a source of great amusement to citizens, but

what a horror to plebes. Those torturous twistings and twirlings, stretching every nerve, straining every

sinew, almost twisting the joints out of place and making life one long agonizing effort. Was there ever a

"plebe," or recruit, who did not hate, did not shudder at the mere mention of squad drill? I did. Others did. I

remember distinctly my first experience of it. I formed an opinion, a morbid dislike of it then, and have not

changed it. The benefit, however, of "squad drill" can not be overestimated. It makes the most crooked,

distorted creature an erect, noble, and manly being, provided, of course, this distortion be a result of habit and

not a natural deformity, the result of laziness in one's walking, such as hanging the head, dropping the

Squad drill is one of the painful necessities of military discipline, and no one regrets his experience of it,

however displeasing it may have been at the time. It is squad drill and hazing that so successfully mould the

coarser characters who come to West Point into officers and gentlemen. They teach him how to govern and

be governed. They are more effectual in polishing his asperities of disposition and forming his character than

Squad drill was at once a punishment, a mode of hazing, and a drill. For the least show of grossness one was

sure to be punished with "settings up, second time!" "settings up, fourth time! "Continue the motion, settings

up second (or fourth) time!" We would be kept at these motions until we could scarcely move. Of course all

this was contrary to orders. The drillmaster would be careful not to be "hived." If he saw an officer even

looking at him, he would add the command "three," which caused a discontinuance of the motion. He would

change, however, to one of the other exercises immediately, and thus keep the plebes continually in motion.

When he thought the punishment sufficient he would discontinue it by the command, "three," and give

"place, rest." When the "place, rest" had been just about sufficient to allow the plebe to get cool and in a

measure rested, the drill would be resumed by the command "'tion, squad" (abbreviated from "attention" and

"When I give the command ''tion, squad,' I want to see you spring up with life."

Now that Williams and myself were admitted, the newspapers made their usual comments on such

occurrences. I shall quote a single one from The New National Era and Citizen, published in Washington,

D.C., and the political organ of the colored people. The article, however, as I present it, is taken from another

"The New National Era and Citizen, which is the national organ of the colored people, contains a sensible

article this week on the status of colored cadets at West Point. After referring to the colored young men,

'Plebes' Flipper of Georgia, and Williams of Virginia, who have passed the examination requisite for entering

the Academy, the Era and Citizen says: 'Now that they are in, the stiff and starched prot�g�s of the

Government make haste to tell the reporters that "none of the fellows would hurt them, but every fellow

would let them alone." Our reporter seems to think that "to be let alone" a terrible doom. So it is, if one is sent

to Coventry by gentlemen. So it is, if one is neglected by those who, in point of education, thrift, and morality

are our equals or superiors. So it is not, if done by the lowminded, the ignorant, and the snobbish. If it be

possible, among the four hundred young charity students of the Government, that Cadet Smith, for instance,

finds no warm friends, and has won no respect after the gallant fight he has made for four yearsa harder

contest than he will ever have in the sterner fieldthen we despair of the material which West Point is

turning out. If this be true, it is training selfish, snobbish martinetsnot knightly soldiers, not Havelocks,

Hardinges, and Kearneysbut the lowest type of disciplined and educated force and brutalitythe Bluchers

and Marlboroughs. We scarcely believe this, however, and we know that any young man, whether he be poor

or black, or both, may enter any firstclass college in America and find warm sympathetic friends, both

among students and faculty, if he but prove himself to be possessed of some good qualities . . . . If the Smiths,

Flippers, and Williamses in their honorable school boy careers can not meet social as well as intellectual

recognition while at West Point, let them study on and acquit themselves like men, for they will meet, out in

the world, a worthy reception among men of worth, who have put by the prejudices of race and the shackles

of ignorance. Emerson says somewhere that "Solitude, the nurse of Genius, is the foe of mediocrity." If our

young men of ability have the stuff in them to make men out of, they need not fear "to be let alone" for a

"That is plain, practical talk. We like it. It has the ring of the true metal. It shows that the writer has faith in

the ultimate triumph of manhood. It is another form for expressing a firm belief that real worth will find a

reward. Never has any bond people emerged from slavery into a condition full of such grand opportunities

and splendid possibilities as those which are within the reach of the colored people of the United States; but if

those opportunities are to be made available, if those possibilities are to be realized, the colored people must

move into the forefront of action and study and work in their own behalf. The colored cadets at West Point,

the colored students in the public schools, the colored men in the professions, the trades, and on the

plantations, can not be idlers if they are to compete with the white race in the acquisition of knowledge and

property. But they have examples of notable achievements in their own ranks which should convince them

that they have not the slightest reason to despair of success. The doors stand wide open, from the plantation to

the National Capitol, and every American citizen can, if he will, attain worthy recognition."

And thus, ere we had entered upon our new duties, were we forewarned of the kind of treatment we should

expect. To be "sent to Coventry," "to be let severely alone," are indeed terrible dooms, but we cared naught

for them. "To be let alone" was what we wished. To be left to our own resources for study and improvement,

for enjoyment in whatever way we chose to seek it, was what we desired. We cared not for social recognition.

We did not expect it, nor were we disappointed in not getting it. We would not seek it. We would not obtrude

ourselves upon them. We would not accept recognition unless it was made willingly. We would be of them at

least independent. We would mark out for ourselves a uniform course of conduct and follow it rigidly. These

were our resolutions. So long as we were in the right we knew we should be recognized by those whose

views were not limited or bound by such narrow confines as prejudice and caste, whether they were at West

Point or elsewhere. Confident that right on our own part would secure us just treatment from others, that "if

we but prove ourselves possessed of some good qualities" we could find friends among both faculty and

I came to West Point, notwithstanding I had heard so much about the Academy well fit to dishearten and

keep one away. And then, too, at the time I had no object in seeking the appointment other than to gratify an

ordinary ambition. Several friends were opposed to my accepting it, and even persuaded me, or rather

attempted to persuade me, to give up the idea altogether. I was inexorable. I had set my mind upon West

Point, and no amount of persuasion, and no number of harrowing narratives of bad treatment, could have

induced me to relinquish the object I had in view. But I was right. The work I chose, and from which I could

not flinch without dishonor, proved far more important than either my friends or myself at first thought it

AS a narrative of this description is very apt to be dry and uninteresting, I have thought it possible to remove

in a measure this objection by using as often as convenient the cant lingo of the corps. A vocabulary which

shall contain it all, or nearly all, becomes necessary. I have taken great care to make it as full as possible, and

There are a few cant words and expressions which are directly personal, and in many cases selfexplanatory.

"Animal," "animile," "beast," "reptile." Synonymous terms applied to candidates for admission into the

"Plebe."A candidate after admission, a new cadet. After the candidates are examined and the proficient

ones admitted, these latter are known officially as "new cadets," but in the cant vernacular of the corps they

are dubbed "plebes," and they retain this designation till the candidates of the next year report. They are then

called "yearlings," a title applied usually to them in camp only. After the encampment they become

"furloughmen" until they return from furlough in August of the following year. They then are

"secondclassmen," and are so officially and � la cadet throughout the year. From this time till they graduate

they are known as the "graduating class," so that, except the second class, each class has its own peculiar cant

Candidates generally report in Mayabout the 20th and during July and August are in camp. This is their

"plebe camp." The next is their, "yearling camp." During the next, they are en cong�, and the next and last is

their "firstclass camp." Of "plebe camp," "yearling camp," and "firstclass camp," more anon.

"Rapid."A "plebe" is said to be "rapid" when he shows a disposition to resist hazing, or to "bone

"Fins."A term applied to the hands generally, of course to the hands of "plebes."

"To bone."To study, to endeavor to do well in any particular; for instance, to "bone demerits" is to strive to

"To bone popularity."This alludes to a habit practised, especially by, "yearlings" while in camp, and is

"To bugle it."To avoid a recitation. To avoid a recitation is an act seldom done by any cadet. It is in fact

standing at the board during the whole time of recitation without turning around, and thus making known a

readiness to recite. At the Academy a bugle takes the place of the bell in civil schools. When the bugle is

blown those sections at recitation are dismissed, and others come in. Now, if one faces the board till the bugle

blows, there is not then enough time for him to recite, and he is said to have "bugled it." Some instructors will

call on any one who shows a disposition to do so, and will require him to tell what he knows about his

"Busted," "broken."These words apply only to cadet officers who are reduced to ranks.

To "get chevrons."To receive an appointment in the battalion organization. Each year, on the day the

graduates receive their diplomas, and just after possibly just beforethey are relieved from further duty at

the Academy, the order fixing the appointments for the next year is read, and those of the year previous

revoked. It has been customary to appoint the officers, captains, and lieutenants from the first class, the

sergeants from the second, and the corporals from the third. This custom has at times, and for reasons, been

For any offence of a grave nature, any one who has chevrons is liable to lose them, or, in other words, to be

"To curse out."To reprimand, to reprove, and also simply to interview. This expression does not by any

"Debauch."Any ceremony or any thing unusual. It may be a pleasant chat, a drill, or any thing that is out of

"Exaggerations."It is a habit of the cadets to exaggerate on certain occasions, and especially when

policing. "A log of wood," "a sawmill," "a forest," and kindred expressions, are applied to any fragment of

wood of any description that may be lying about. A feather is "a pillow;" a straw, "a broom factory;" a pin, an

"iron foundry;" a cotton string, "a cotton factory;" and I have known a "plebe" to be told to "get up that sugar

refinery," which "refinery" was a cube of sugar crushed by some one treading upon it.

Any thingwhatever it may bewhich must be policed, is usually known by some word or term suggested

An "extra" is an extra tour of guard duty given as punishment. Cadets on "extra" are equipped as for parade,

and walk in the area of Cadet Barracks from two o'clock until retreat, or from two to five hours, on Saturday

or other days of the week. An "extra" is sometimes called a "Saturday Punishment."

"Fessed," "fessed cold," "fessed frigid," "fessed out," and "fessed through."Made a bad recitation, failed.

"Made."Given an appointment, given chevrons as an officer in the battalion organization.

*When the cadets are in barracks, the officer of the guard on Sundays either has or assumes authority to

detain from church, for any emergency that might arise, one or two or more members of his guard, in addition

[A number of cadets sitting or lounging about the room. One at table pouring out the drinks. As soon as he is

done he takes up his own glass, and says to the others, "Come, fellows," and then all together standing:]

Stand up in a row, For sentimental drinking we're going for to go; In the army there's sobriety, promotion's

very slow, So we'll cheer our hearts with choruses of Benny Havens' O. Of Benny Havens' O, of Benny

When you and I and Benny, and General Jackson too, Are brought before the final Board our course of life t'

review, May we never "fess" on any point, but then be told to go To join the army of the blest at Benny

Havens' O. At Benny Havens' O, at Benny Havens' O, To join the army of the blest at Benny Havens' O.

To the ladies of the army let our bumpers ever flow, Companions of our exile, our shield 'gainst every woe,

May they see their husbands generals with double pay to show, And indulge in reminiscences of Benny

Havens' O. Of Benny Havens O, of Benny Havens' O, And indulge in reminiscences of Benny Havens' O.

'Tis said by commentators, in the land where we must go We follow the same handicraft we followed here

below; If this be true philosophy (the sexton, he says no), What days of dance and song we'll have at Benny

Havens' O. At Benny Havens' O, at Benny Havens' O, What days of dance and song we'll have at Benny

To the ladies of the Empire State, whose hearts and albums too Bear sad remembrance of the wrongs we

stripling soldiers do, We bid you all a kind farewell, the best recompense we know Our loves and

rhymings had their source at Benny Havens' O. At Benny Havens' O, at Benny Havens' O, Our loves and

There comes a voice from Florida, from Tampa's lonely shore; It is the wail of gallant men, O'Brien is no

more; In the land of sun and flowers his head lies pillowed low, No more to sing petite coquille at Benny

Havens' O. At Benny Havens' O, at Benny Havens' O, No more to sing petite coquille at Benny Havens' O,

"PLEBE CAMP!" The very words are suggestive. Those who have been cadets know what "plebe camp" is.

To a plebe just beginning his military career the first experience of camp is most trying. To him every thing is

new. Every one seems determined to impose upon him, and each individual "plebe" fancies at times he's

picked out from all the rest as an especially good subject for this abuse (?). It is not indeed a very pleasant

prospect before him, nor should he expect it to be. But what must be his feelings when some old cadet paints

for his pleasure camp scenes and experiences? Whatever he may have known of camp life before seems as

naught to him now. It is a new sort of life he is to lead there, and he feels himself, although curious and

anxious to test it, somewhat shy of entering such a place. There is no alternative. He accepts it resignedly and

goes ahead. It is not always with smiling countenance that he marches out and surveys the site after reveille.

Indeed, those who do have almost certainly received A highly colored sketch of camp life, and are hastening

to sad disappointment, and not at all to the joys they've been led to expect. He marches into the company

streets. He surveys them carefully and recognizes what is meant by "the plebes have to do all the policing,"

servants being an unknown luxury. He also sees the sentryboxes and the paths the sentinels tread, and

shudders as he recollects the tales of midnight adventure which some wily cadet has narrated to him.

Imagination begins her cruel work. Already he sees himself lying at the bottom of Fort Clinton Ditch tied in a

blanket, or perhaps fetterless and free, but helpless. Or he may imagine his hands are tied to one, and his feet

to the other tentpole, and himself struggling for freedom as he recognizes that the reveille gun has been fired

and those merciless fifers and drummers are rapidly finishing the reveille. And, horror of horrors! mayhap his

fancies picture him standing tremblingly on post at midnight's solemn hour, his gun just balanced in his

hands, while numbers of cadets in hideous sheets and other ghostly garb approach or are already standing

around torturing him. And again, perchance, he challenges some approaching person in one direction, and

finds to his dismay the officer of the day, the officer of the guard, and a corporal are crossing and recrossing

his post, or having already advanced without being challenged, are demanding why it is, and why he has been

Just after reveille on the morning of June 22d the companies were marched to their company streets, and the

"plebes" assigned to each followed in rear. At the time only the tent floors and cord stays were on the ground.

These former the plebes were ordered to align. This we did while the old cadets looked on, occasionally

correcting or making some suggestion. It required considerable time to do this, as we were inexperienced and

When at last we were done, tents, or rather tent floors, were assigned to us. We thence returned to barracks

and to breakfast. Our more bulky effects were carried into camp on wagons before breakfast, while the lighter

articles were moved over by our own hands. By, or perhaps before, eleven o'clock every thing had been taken

to camp. By twelve we were in ranks ready to march in. At the last stroke of the clock the column was put in

march, and we marched in with all the "glory of war." We stacked arms in the company streets, broke ranks,

and each repaired to the tent assigned him, which had by this time been brought over and placed folded on the

tent floors. They were rapidly prepared for raising, and at a signal made on a drum the tents were raised

After this we had dinner, and then we put our tents in order. At four o'clock the policecall was sounded, and

all the "plebes" were turned out to police the company streets. This new phase of West Point life and its

phases rapidly developed themselveswas a hard one indeed. The duties are menial, and very few discharge

them without some show of displeasure, and often of temper. None are exempt. It is not hard work, and yet

every one objects to doing it. The third and fourth classes, by regulations, are required to do the policing.

When I was a plebe, the plebes did it all. Many indeed tried to shirk it, but they were invariably "hived."

Every plebe who attempted any such thing was closely watched and made to work. The old cadets generally

chose such men for "special dutymen," and required them to bring water, pile bedding, sweep the floor, and

do all sorts of menial services. Of course all this last is prohibited, and therefore risky. Somebody is "hived"

and severely punished almost every year for allowing plebes to perform menial duties for him. But what of

that? The more dangerous it becomes the more is it practised. Forbidden things always have an alluring

sweetness about them. More caution, however, is observed. If, for instance, a cadet should want a pail of

water, he causes a plebe to empty his (the plebe's) into his own (the cadet's). If it should be empty, he sends

him to the hydrant to fill it, and, when he returns, gets possession of it as before. An officer seeing a plebe

with his own pailrecognizable by his own name being on it in huge Roman charactersgoing for water

would say nothing to him. If the name, however, should be that of a cadet, the plebe would be fortunate if he

escaped an investigation or a reprimand on the spot, and the cadet, too, if he were not put in arrest for

allowing a new cadet to perform menial services for him. If he wants a dipper of icedwater, he calls out to

the first plebe he sees in some such manner as this: "Oh! Mr., don't you want to borrow my dipper for a

little while?" The plebe of course understands this. He may smile possibly, and if not serving some

Plebes are also required to clean the equipments of the older cadets. They do it cheerfully, and, strange to say,

are as careful not to be "hived" as the cadet whose accoutrements they are cleaning. I say "required." I do not

mean that regulations or orders require this of the new cadets, but that the cadets by way of hazing do. From

the heartrending tales of hazing at West Point, which citizens sometimes read of, one would think the plebes

would offer some resistance or would complain to the authorities. These tales are for the most part untrue. In

earlier days perhaps hazing was practised in a more inhuman manner than now. It may be impossible, and

indeed is, for a plebe to cross a company street without having some one yell out to him: "Get your hands

around, mister. Hold your head up;" but all that is required by tactics. Perhaps the frequency and unnecessary

repetition of these cautions give them the appearance of hazing. However that may be, there seems to be no

way to impress upon a plebe the necessity of carrying his "palms to the front," or his "head up." To report

him and give him demerits merely causes him to laugh and joke over the number of them that have been

I do not mean to defend hazing in any sense of the word; but I do believe that it is indispensable as practised

at the Academy. It would simply be impossible to mould and polish the social amalgamation at West Point

without it. Some of the rough specimens annually admitted care nothing for regulations. It is fun to them to

be punished. Nothing so effectually makes a plebe submissive as hazing. That contemptuous look and

imperious bearing lowers a plebe, I sometimes think, in his own estimation. He is in a manner cowed and

made to feel that he must obey, and not disobey; to feel that he is a plebe, and must expect a plebe's portion.

He is taught by it to stay in his place, and not to "bone popularity" with the older cadets.

It is frequently said that "plebe camp" and "plebe life" are the severest parts of life at West Point. To some

they are, and to others they are not. With my own self I was almost entirely free from hazing, and while there

were features in "plebe life" which I disliked, I did nevertheless have a far easier and better time than my own

white classmates. Even white plebes often go through their camp pleasantly and profitably. Only those who

I have known plebes to be permitted to do any thing they chose while off duty. I have known others to have

been kept working on their guns or other equipments whole days for several days at a time. It mattered not

how clean they were, or how soon the work was done. I've known them to be many times interrupted for the

mere sake of hazing, and perhaps to be sent somewhere or to do something which was unnecessary and

would have been as well undone. Plebes who tent with firstclassmen keep their own tents in order, and are

never permitted by their tentmates to do any thing of the kind for others unless when wanted, are entirely

unoccupied, and then usually their services are asked for. A classmate of mine, when a plebe, tented with a

firstclassman. He was doing something for himself one day in a freeandeasy manner, and had no thought

of disturbing any one. A yearling corporal, who was passing, saw him, thought he was having too good and

soft a time of it, and ordered him out to tighten cords, an act then highly uncalled for, save as a means of

hazing. The firstclassman happened to come up just as the plebe began to interfere with the cords, and asked

him who told him to do that. He told him, and was at once directed to leave them and return to whatever he

was doing before being interrupted. The yearling, confident in his red tape and his mightiness, ordered the

plebe out again. His corporalship soon discovered his mistake, for the firstclassman gave the plebe full

information as to what could be required of him, and told him to disobey any improper order of the corporal's

which was plainly given to haze him. The affair was made personal. A fight ensued. The corporal was

Again, I've known plebes to be stopped from workif they were doing something for a cadetto transfer it

to some other one who was accustomed to shirk all the duty he could, or who did things slowly and slovenly.

Indeed I may assert generally that plebes who are willing to work have little to do outside of their regular

duty, and fare in plebe camp quite as well as yearlings; while those who are stubborn and careless are

required to do most all the work. Cadets purposely select them and make them work. They, too, are very

frequently objects of hazing in its severest form. At best, though, plebe camp is rather hard, its Numerous

drills, together with guard and police duty, make it the severest and most undesirable portion of the four years

To get up at five o'clock and be present at reveille rollcall, to police for half an hour, to have squad drill

during the next hour, to put one's tent in order after that, and then to prepare one's self for breakfast at seven,

make up a rather trying round of duties. To discharge them alland that must certainly be donekeeps one

busy; but who would not prefer little extra workand not hard work at that in the cooler part of the day to

an equal amount in the heated portion of it? I am sure the plebes do. I know the corporals and other officers

After breakfast comes troop parade at eight o'clock, guard mounting immediately after, and the establishment

of the "color line." Arms and accoutrements must be in perfect order. The plebes clean them during the

afternoon, so that before parade it is seldom necessary to do more than wipe off dust, or adjust a belt, or

After establishing the "color line," which is done about 8.30 A.M., all cadets, save those on guard and those

marching on, have time to do whatever they choose. The cadets generally repair to the guard tents to see lady

friends and other acquaintances, while the plebes either interest themselves in the inspection of "color men,"

or make ready for artillery drill at nine. The latter drill, commencing at 9 A.M., continues for one hour. The

yearlings and plebes receive instruction in the manual and nomenclature of the piece. The drill is not very

trying unless the heavy guns are usedI mean unless they are drilled at the battery of twelvepounders. Of

late both classes have been drilled at batteries of threeinch rifles. These are light and easily manoeuvred,

The first class, during this same hour, are drilled at the siege or seacoast battery. The work here is sometimes

hard and sometimes not. When firing, the drill is pleasant and interesting, but when we have mechanical

manoeuvres all this pleasantness vanishes. Then we have hard work. Dismounting and mounting is not a very

At eleven o'clock, every day for a week or ten days, the plebes have manual drill. This is entirely in the

shade, and when "In place, rest," is frequently given, is not at all displeasing, except when some yearling

corporal evinces a disposition to haze. At five o'clock this drill is repeated Then comes parade, supper, tattoo,

and best of all a long night's rest. The last two drills continue for a few days only, and sometimes do not take

The third class, or the yearlings, have dancing from eleven to twelve, and the plebes from then till one. In the

afternoon the plebes have nothing to do in the way of duty till four o'clock. The camp is then policed, and

when that is done there may or may not be any further duty to discharge till retreat parade. After the plebes

are put in the battalionthat is, after they begin drilling, etc., with their companies all cadets attend

company drill at five o'clock. After attending a few of these drills the first class is excused from further

attendance during the encampment. One officer and the requisite number of privates, however, are detailed

I omitted to say that the first class received in the forenoon instruction in practical military engineering and

What most tries plebes, and yearlings, too, is guard duty. If their classes are small, each member of them is

put on guard every third or fourth day. To the plebes, being something entirely new, guard duty is very, very

During the day they fare well enough, but as soon as night comes "well enough" disappears. They are liable

at any moment to be visited by cadets on a hazing tour from the body of the camp, or by the officers and

non commissioned officers of the guard. The latter generally leave the post of the guard in groups of three

or four. After getting into camp they separate, and manage to come upon a sentinel simultaneously and from

all points of the compass. If the sentinel isn't cool, he will challenge and Advance one, and possibly let the

others come upon him unchallenged and unseen even. Then woe be to him! He'll be "crawled over" for a

certainty, and to make his crimes appear as bad as possible, will be reported for "neglect of duty while a

sentinel, allowing the officers and noncommissioned officers of the guard to advance upon him, and to

cross his post repeatedly without being challenged." He knows the report to be true, and if he submits an

explanation for the offence his inexperience will be considered, and he will probably get no demerits for his

But the best joke of all is in their manner of calling off the halfhours at night, and of challenging.

Sometimes we hear No. 2 call off, "No. 2, ten o'clock, and all is well," in a most natural and unconcerned

tone of voice, while No. 3 may sing out, "No. 3, ten o'clock and all is wellll," changing his tone only on the

last word. Then No. 4, with another variation, may call off, "No. 4, ten o'clock, and alllll's well,"

changing his tone on "alllll's," and speaking the rest, especially the last word, in a low and natural manner

of voice, and sometimes abruptly. And so on along the entire chain of sentinels, each one calls off in a

manner different from that of the rest. Sometimes the calling off is scarcely to be heard, sometimes it is loud

and full, and again it is distinct but squeakish. It is indeed most delightful to be in one's tent and here the

plebes call off in the still quiet hours of the night. One can't well help laughing, and yet all plebes, more or

Plebe sentinels are very troublesome sometimes to the noncommissioned officers of the guard. They receive

their orders time after time, and when inspected for them most frequently spit them out with ease and

readiness; but just as soon as night comes, and there is a chance to apply them, they "fess utterly cold," and in

the simplest things at that. Nine plebes out of ten almost invariably challenge thus, "Who comes here?" "Who

stands here?" "Who goes here?" as the case may be, notwithstanding they have been repeatedly instructed

orally, and have seen the words, as they should be, in the regulations. If a person is going, and is a hundred

One night the officer of the day concealed himself near a sentinel's post, and suddenly appeared on it. The

plebe threw his gun down to the proper position and yelled out, "Who comes here?" The officer of the day

stopped short, whereupon the plebe jumped at him and shouted, "Who stands here?" Immediately the officer

started off, saying as he did so, "I'm not standing; I'm going." Then of course the challenge was again

changed to, "Who goes here? "I'm not going; I'm coming," said the officer, facing about and approaching the

sentinel. This was kept up for a considerable time, till the officer of the day got near a sentrybox and

suddenly disappeared. The plebe knew he was there, and yelled in a louder tone than before, "Who stands

It is hardly reasonable, I think, to say the plebe was frightened; but he actually stood there motionless,

There was a light battery in park near by, and through this, aided by the gloom, the officer of the day

managed to pass unobserved along, but not on the sentinel's post. He then got upon it and advanced on him,

making the while much noise with his sword and his heavy tread. He walked directly up to the sentinel

unchallenged, and startled him by asking, "What are you standing here yelling for?"

The plebe told him that the officer of the day had been upon his post, and he had seen him go behind the

sentrybox. And all this to the officer of the day, standing there before him, "Well, sir, whom do you take me

The plebe looks, and for the first time brought to full consciousness, recognizes the officer of the day. Of

course he is surprised, and the more so when the officer of the day inspects for histhe plebe'ssatisfaction

the sentrybox, and finds no one there. He "eats" that plebe up entirely, and then sends a corporal around to

instruct him in his orders. When the corporal comes it may be just as difficult to advance him. He may, when

challenged, advance without replying, or, if he replies, he may say, "Steamboat," "Captain Jack, Queen of the

Modocs," as one did say to me, or something or somebody else not entitled to the countersign. Possibly the

plebe remembers this, and he may command "Halt!" and call another corporal. This latter may come on a run

at "charge bayonets," and may not stop till within a foot or so of the sentinel. He then gets another "cursing

out." By this time the corporal who first came and was halted has advanced unchallenged and unnoticed since

the arrival of the second. And then another cursing out. Thus it is that plebe camp is made so hard.

Surely the officers and noncommissioned officers are right in testing by all manner of ruses the ability of the

sentinels. It is their duty to instruct them, to see that they know their orders, and are not afraid to apply them.

Sometimes plebes enjoy it, and like to be cursed out. Sometimes they purposely advance toward a party

improperly, to see what will be said to them. It is fun to some, and to others most serious. At best it gives a

plebe a poor opinion of West Point, and while he may bear it meekly he nevertheless sighs for the " touch

of a vanished hand," the caressing hand of a loving mother or sister. I know I used to hate the very name of

Of course the plebes, being inexperienced for the most part, are "high privates in the rear rank." For another

reason, also, this is the case. The first and second classes have the right established by immemorial custom of

marching in the front rank, which right necessarily keeps the plebes in the rear rank, and the yearlings too,

except so many as are required in the front rank for the proper formation of the company. Another reason,

perhaps, may be given to the same end. We have what we call class rank, or, in other words, class standing.

Every class has certain privileges and immunities, which the junior classes do not enjoy; for example, first

classmen, and secondclassmen tooby General Orders of September, 1876are excused from guard duty

in the capacity of privates, and are detailed first classmen for officers of the day and officers of the guard,

and secondclassmen for noncommissioned officers of the guard. All members of the third and fourth

classes are privates, and from them the privates of the guard are detailed. All officers, commissioned and

noncommissioned, are exempt from "Saturday punishment." I mean they do not walk extra tours of guard

for punishment. The non commissioned officers are sometimes required to serve such punishments by

discharging the duties of corporal or sergeant in connection with the punishment squad. Thirdand

fourthclassmen enjoy no such immunities. Plebes, then, having no rank whatever, being in fact conditional

cadets until they shall have received their warrants in the following January, must give way to those who

have. One half or more of the privates of the company must be in the front rank. This half is made up of those

who rank highest, firstclassmen and secondclassmen, and also, if necessary, a number of thirdclassmen.

Plebes must then, except in rare cases, march in the rear rank, and from the time they are put in the battalion

till the close of the summer encampment, they are required to carry their hands with palms to the front as

All this is kept up till the close of camp, and makes, I think, plebe camp the most trying part of one's cadet

On the 28th of August the furloughmen return, and report to the commandant at two o'clock for duty.

In the afternoon the battalion is sized and quarters are assigned under the supervision of the assistant

At parade the appointment of officers and non commissioned officers for the ensuing year is published, and

In the evening the "twentyeighth hop" takes place, and is the last of the season. On the 29thand beginning

at reveillethe cadets move their effects into winter quarters in barracks. All heavy articles are moved in on

wagons, while all lighter ones are carried over by cadets themselves. By seven o'clock every thing is moved

Breakfast is served at 7 A.M., and immediately afterward comes "troop" and guardmounting, after which

the entire camp is thoroughly policed. This requires an hour or more, and when all is done the "general" is

sounded. At this the companies are formed under arm in their respective company streets. The arms are then

stacked and ranks broken. At least two cadets repair to each tent, and at the first tap of the drum remove and

roll up all the cords save the corner ones. At the second tap, while one cadet steadies the tent the other

removes and rolls the corner cords nearest him. The tents in the body of the encampment are moved. Back

two feet, more or less, from the color line, while the guard tents and those of the company officers are moved

in a northerly direction. At the third tap the tents fall simultaneously toward the color line and the south

cardinal point, amid rousing cheers. The tents being neatly rolled up and placed on the floors, the companies

are reformed and on the centre. The battalion then marches out to take up its winter quarters in barracks.

When camp is over the plebes are no longer required to depress their toes or to carry their hands with palms

to the front. They are, in fact, "cadets and gentlemen," and must take care of themselves.

THE academic year begins July 1st, and continues till about June 20th the following year. As soon after this

as practicabledepending upon what time the examination is finishedthe corps moves into camp, with the

Between the 20th of August and the 1st of September, the "Seps," or those candidates who were unable to do

so in the spring previous, report. Before the 1st they have been examined and the deficient ones dismissed.

On the 1st, unless that be Sunday, academic duties begin. The classes are arranged into a number of sections,

according to their class rank, as determined at the previous annual examination, or according to rank in some

particular studyfor instance, for instruction in engineering the first class is arranged according to merit in

philosophy, and not according to general merit or class rank. The fourth, or "plebe" class, however, is

The first class study, during the first term, engineering law, and ordnance and gunnery. They recite on civil

engineering from 8 to 11 A.M. daily, on ordnance and gunnery from 2 to 4 P.M., alternating with law.

The second class have natural and experimental philosophy from 8 to 11 A.M. daily, and chemistry,

alternating with riding, from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M.; also drawing in pencil from 2 to 4 P.M. For instruction in

this department the class is divided into two as nearly equal parts as practicable, which alternate in attendance

The third class have pure mathematics, analytical Geometry, descriptive geometry, and the principles of

shades, shadows, and perspective, from 8 to 11 A.M. daily. They also have French from 11 A.M., till 1 P.M.,

The entire class attend drawing daily till November 1st, when it is divided into two equal parts or platoons,

which attend drawing and riding on alternate clays. Riding! "Yearling riding!" I must advert to that before I

go further. First let me describe it. A platoon of yearlings, twenty, thirty, forty perhaps; as many horses; a

spacious riding hall, with galleries that seat but too many mischievous young ladies, and whose interior is

well supplied with tan bark, make up the principal objects in the play. Nay, I omit the most important

Area of barracks. At guardhouse door stands an orderly, with drum in hands. In the area a number of cadets,

some in everyday attire, others dressed � la cavalier. These � la cavalier fellows are going to take their first

lesson in riding. About four fifths of them were never on a horse in their lives, and hence what dire

expectations hover over their ordinarily placid heads! They have heard from the upper classmen what trials

the novice experiences in his first efforts, and they do not go to the ridinghall without some dread. Four

The ridinghall, a large, spacious, rectangular structure, door on each side and at each end, floor well covered

with tan bark, spacious gallery over each side door, staircases outside leading to them. Galleries are occupied,

one by ladies, and, perhaps a number of gentlemen, and the other by enlisted men usually. In the centre of the

hall are a number of horses, each equipped with a surcingle, blanket, and watering bridle. A soldier stands at

the head of each one of them. As curtain rises enter platoon by side door, and marches around the left flank of

Section Marcher.Platoon, halt! left, face! (Saluting Instructor) All are present, sir!

"To mount the trooper the Instructor first causes him to stand to horse by the command 'Stand to horse!' At

We've got the trooper mounted now. After some further explanation the Instructor forms them into a column

They are now going around the hall at a walk, a slow, snaillike pace, but what figures some of them present!

"To trot," says he, "raise the hands" ("yearlings" use both hands) "slightly. This is to apprise the horse that

you want his attention. Then lower the hands slightly, and at the same time gently press the horse with the

legs until he takes the gait desired. As soon as he does, relax the pressure." A long pause. The occupants of

the galleries are looking anxiously on. They know what is coming next. They have seen these drills over and

over again. And so each trooper awaits anxiously the next command. Alas! It comes! "Trot!"

What peals of laughter from that cruel gallery! But why? Ah! See there that trooper struggling in the tan bark

while a soldier pursues his steed. He is not hurt. He gets up, brushes away the tan bark, remounts and starts

off again. But there, he's off again! He's continually falling off or jumping off purposely (?). What confusion!

There comes one at a full gallop, sticking on as best he can; but there, the poor fellow is off. The horses are

running away. The troopers are dropping off everywhere in the hall. No one is hurt. Alas! they pressed too

hard to keep on, and instead of relaxing the pressure at the desired gait, the trot, they kept on pressing, the

horse taking the trot, the gallop, the run, and the trooper, alas! the dust. Again they had the reins too long, and

instead of holding on by the flat of the thighs with their feet parallel to the horse, we see them making all

sorts of angles. But that gallery! that gallery! how I used to wish it wasn't there! The very sight of a lady

Fair ones, why will you thus torture the "yearlings" by your at other times so desirable presence?

The fourth class have pure mathematics, and algebra, daily from 8 to 11 A.M., and French also, daily, from 2

to 4 P.M. Beginning on October 15th, or as near that time as practicable, they have fencing, and the use of the

During the month of September cadets of all classes, or the battalion, are instructed in the infantry tactics in

the "School of the Battalion." Near the end of the month it is customary to excuse the officers of the first

class from these drills, and to detail privates to perform their duties for one drill only at a time. The other

classes are in ranks, or the line of fileclosers, according as they are sergeants, guides, or privates.

During October the several classes receive practical instruction as follows: The first class in military

engineering, the manner of making and recording the details of a military reconnoissance, and field

sketching; the second class in siege and seacoast artillery, and military signalling and telegraphy. The class

is divided into two parts, composed of the odd and even numbers, which attend drills on alternate daysthat

is, artillery one day and signalling the next; the third class in light or field artillery, and the theory and

principles of "target practice." Sometimes this latter is given during camp, as is most convenient. Sometimes,

also, they receive instruction in ordnance. This, however, is generally deferred till they become

For further instruction of the first class the following part of the personnel of a light battery is detailed from

that class, viz.: three chiefs of platoon, one chief of caissons, one guidon, and six chiefs of section. Each

The fourth class receives instruction in field artillery at the "foot batteries." This instruction is limited to the

nomenclature and manual of the piece. Here, also, to assist the instructor, a chief of piece for each piece is

detailed. They are required to correct all errors made by the plebes, and sometimes even to drill them. Hence

a knowledge of tactics is indispensable, and the means of fixing such knowledge in the mind is afforded.

Sometimes also two firstclassmen are required to assist at the siege or seacoast batteries.

Every day throughout the year a guard is mounted. It consists of two officers of the guardsometimes only

oneone sergeant, three corporalsor more and twentyfour privatessometimes, also, eighteen or

twentyone in camp, and twentyseven in barracks. Every day, also, there is one officer of the day detailed

The weather permitting, we have "dress parade" daily. When unfavorable, on account of snow, rain, or severe

cold, we have "undress parade"that is, parade without arms and in undress or fatigue uniform, the object

being to get us all together to publish the orders, etc., for the morrow. After November 1st we usually have

"undress parade," and then "supper mess parade." Between these two ceremonies the cadets amuse

themselves at the gymnasium, dancing or skating, or "spooneying," or at the library; generally, I thinkthe

upper classmen at any rateat the library. After supper we have recreation and then study. And thus we "live

The semiannual examination begins January 1st, or as soon thereafter as practicable. The plebes are

examined first, and started in their new studies as soon as possible. After the plebes the other classes are

examined in the order of their rankthat is, first class, second class, and third classand of the importance

of their studies, engineering being first, then philosophy, and mathematics, etc.

The examination being over, the deficient ones, after receiving orders from the Secretary of War, are

For the first class military engineering, ordnance, and gunnery, constitutional law, military law, rules of

evidence, practice of courtsmartial, mineralogy, and geology, strategy, and grand tactics, and the throwing

and dismantling of pontoon bridges. For the second class, acoustics and optics, astronomy, analytical

mechanics in review; infantry, artillery, and cavalry tactics; drawing, riding, and signalling. For the third

class, calculus, surveying, geometry, and riding. Immediately after the examination the entire third class

receive instruction in mechanical drawing before they begin their other mathematical studies. For the fourth

class the studies are plane geometry, trigonometry, descriptive geometry, and fencing, including the use of

Parades, guard duty, etc., remain as previously described until about the middle of March usually. At that

time the ordinary routine of drills, dress parades, etc., is resumed; but drills in this order, viz., from March

15th to April 1st instruction in the school of the company; in artillery tactics, as before described during

April; and in infantry tactics, in the "School of the Battalion," during May. The annual examination takes

place in June. The following diary, made for the purpose of insertion here, will best explain what generally

Thursday, June 1, 1876.Resumed white pants at 5.10 P.M. Received Board of Visitors by a review at 5.10

P.M. Examination begun at 9 A.M. First class, engineering. Salute of fifteen guns at meridian to Board of

Friday, June 2.First class, engineering finished. Second class, philosophy commenced. Siege battery drill

Monday, June 5.Light battery at 5.10 P.M. A yearling lost his "white continuations." Plebes went to

Tuesday, June 6.Fourth class, entire in French. Examination written. Second class, philosophy finished.

First class, mineralogy and geology begun. Third class, mathematics begun. Battalion drill at 5.10 P.M.

Wednesday, June 7.Second class turned out, marched to seacoast battery at 11 A.M. Three detachments

selected. Rest marched back and dismissed. Cavalry drill at 5.10 P.M. Six secondclassmen turned out.

Friday, June 9.Battalion skirmish drill 5.10 P.M. Deployed to front at double time. Second, fourth, and

seventh companies reserve. Almost all manoeuvres at double time. Deployed by numbers and charged.

Marched in in line, band on right. Broke into column of companies to the left, changed direction to the right,

obliqued to the left, moved forward and formed "front into line, faced to the rear." Arms inspected,

Saturday, June 10.Third class, mathematics finished. Miss Philips sang to cadets in mess hall after supper.

Sunday, June 11.Graduating sermon by Hon., of Princeton, N. J., closing "hime," "When shall we meet

Monday, June 12.Detail from first class to ride in hall. Use of sabre and pistol on horseback. First class,

Tuesday, June 13.First class finished. Board divided into committees. Second class, chemistry begun.

Graduating parade. Corps cheered by graduates after parade. Hop in evening; also German; whole continuing

till 3 A.M. Rumor has it two firstclassmen, Slocum and Guilfoyle, are "found" in ordnance and engineering.

Wednesday, June 14.Fourth class, mathematics begun. Salute seventeen guns at 10 A.M. in honor of

arrival at post of General Sherman and Colonel Poe of his staff. Graduating exercises from 11 A.M. till near 1

Thursday, June 15.Usual routine of duties resumed. Company drills in the afternoon from 5.10 to 6.10

P.M. Rather unusual, but we're going to the Centennial. Rumor has it we encamp Saturday the 17th for ten

Friday, June 16.Dom Pedro, emperador de la Brasil estaba recibiado para un "review" a las cuatro horas y

quarenta y cinco minutos. El embarc� por la ciudad de Nueva York inmediatemente Second class, chemistry

Saturday, June 17.Third class, French finished. Third class, Spanish begun. "Camp rumor" not true.

Monday, June 19.Moved into camp, aligned tent floors at 5 A. M. in the rain. Required by order to move

in effects at 9 A. M., and to march in and pitch tents at 12 M. Rained in torrents. Marched in, etc., at 9 A.M.

Effects moved in afterwards. Rain ceased by 12 M. Marched in. Second class, tactics finished. Third class,

Ordinarily as soon as the examination is over the third class take advantage of the two months' furlough

allowed them, while other classes go into camp. This encampment begins June 17th, or a day or two earlier or

later, according to circumstances. This brings me to the end of the first year. I have described camp life, and

also, I observe, each of the remaining years of cadet life. On July 1st the plebes become the fourth class; the

original fourth the third; the third, now on furlough, the second; and the second the first. I have given in an

The plebe, or fourth class of the previous year, are now become yearlings, and are therefore in their "yearling

camp." At the end of every month an extract from the class and conduct report of each cadet is sent to his

parents or guardian for their information. I insert a copy of one of these monthly reports.

EXTRACT from the Class and Conduct Reports of the MILITARY ACADEMY for the month of February,

Was, in Mathematics.........No. 48 " French..............No. 48 " Spanish,............No. 37 " Drawing.............No. 40

His demerit for the month is 2, and since the commencement of the academic half year, 23.

Par. 71.When any Cadet shall have a total of numbers [of demerit] thus recorded, exceeding one hundred

Par. 153.No Cadet shall apply for, or receive money, or any other supplies from his parents, or from any

Note.The attention of Parents and Guardians is invited to the foregoing Regulations. The permission

referred to in paragraph 153 must be obtained before the shipment to the cadet of the supplies desired.

IN this chapter I shall describe only those phases of cadet life which are experienced by "yearlings" in their

Beginning July 5th, or as soon after as practicable, the third class receive practical instruction in the

nomenclature and manual of the fieldpiece. This drill continues till August 1st, when they begin the "School

The class attend dancing daily. Attendance at dancing is optional with that part of the third class called

"yearlings," and compulsory for the "Seps," who of course do not become yearlings till the following

September. The third class also receive instruction in the duties of a military laboratory, and "target practice."

These instructions are not always given during camp. They may be given in the autumn or spring.

Another delight of the yearling is to "bone colors." Immediately in front of camp proper is a narrow path

extending entirely across the ground, and known as the "color line." On the 1st of Augustsometimes

before the "color line" is established, this name being applied also to the purpose of the color line. This

ceremony consists in stacking arms just in rear of the color line, and placing the colors on the two stacks

From the privates of the guard three are chosen to guard the stacks and to require every one who crosses the

color line or passes within fifteen paces of the colors to salute them. These three sentinels are known as the

Those are chosen who are neatest and most soldierlike in their appearance. Cadets prepare themselves

specially for this, and they toss up their guns to the adjutant at guardmounting. This signifies that they

intend competing for "colors." The adjutant falls them out after the guard has marched to its post, and

inspects them. Absolute cleanliness is necessary. Any spot of dirt, dust, or any thing unclean will often defeat

one. Yearlings "bone" their guns and accoutrements for "colors," and sometimes get them every time they

A "color man" must use only those equipments issued to him. He cannot borrow those of a man who has

"boned them up" and expect to get colors. Sometimes but rarelyplebes compete and win.

The inducement for this extra labor is simply this: Instead of being on duty twentyfour hours, color men are

relieved from 4 P. M. till 8 A. M. the next day, when they march off. They of course enjoy all other privileges

"Sentinels for the Color Line.The sentinels for the color line will be permitted to go to their tents from the

time the stacks are broken till 8 A.M. the following morning, when they will rejoin the guard. They will be

excused from marching to meals, but will report to the officer of the guard at the rollcall for each meal, and

It is the yearling who does most of the hazing. Just emerged from his chrysalis state, having the year before

received similar treatment at the hands of other yearlings, he retaliates, so to speak, upon the now plebe, and

The practice, however, is losing ground. The cadets are more generous, and, with few exceptions, never

interfere with a plebe. This is certainly an advance in the right direction; for although hazing does comprise

some good, it is, notwithstanding, a low practice, one which manliness alone should condemn. None need

information and assistance more than plebes, and it is unkind to refuse it ; nay, it is even not humane to refuse

it and also to haze the asker. Such conduct, more than any thing else, discourages and disheartens him. It

takes from him all desire to do and earn, to study or strive for success. At best it can be defended only as

being effective where regulations are not, viz., in the cases of rough specimens who now not infrequently

Formerly in yearling camp the corporals were all "acting sergeants." They were so acting in the absence of

the de facto sergeants. These corporals got the idea into their heads that to retain their appointments they had

to do a certain amount of "skinning," and often "skins" were more fancied than real. This was a rather sad

condition of affairs. Plebes would find their demerits accumulating and become disheartened. It was all due

to this unnecessary rigor, and "being military," which some of the yearling corporals affected. No one bears,

or rather did bear, such a reputation as the yearling corporal. As such he was disliked by everybody, and

plebes have frequently fought them for their unmanly treatment. This, however, was. It is no more. We have

no yearling corporals, and plebes fare better generally than ever before. Not because all yearling corporals

thus subserved their ambition by reporting men for little things that might as well have been overlooked, did

they get this bad reputation, but rather because with it they coupled the severest hazing, and sometimes even

insults. That was unmanly as well as mean. Hazing could be endured, but not always insults.

Whether for this reason or not I cannot say, the authorities now appoint the corporals from the second class,

men who are more dignified and courteous in their conduct toward all, and especially toward plebes. The

One scarcely appreciates cadet lifeif such appreciation is possibletill he becomes a yearling. It is not till

in yearling camp that a cadet begins to "spoon." Not till then is he permitted to attend the hops, and of course

he has but little opportunity to cultivate female society, nor is he expected to do so till then, for to assume any

familiarity with the upper classes would be considered rather in advance of his "plebeship's" rights. How then

can hehe is little more than a strangerbecome acquainted with the fair ones who either dwell at or are

visiting West Point. Indeed, knowing "femmes" are quite as prone to haze as the cadets, and most

unmercifully cut the unfortunate plebe. Some are also so very haughty: they will admit only first classmen

But Mr. Plebe, having become a yearling finds that the "Mr." is dropped, and that he is allowed all necessary

familiarity. He then begins to enjoy his cadetship, a position which for pleasure and happiness has untold

advantages, for what woman can resist those glorious buttons? A yearling has another advantage. The

furlough class is absent, and the plebeswell, they are "plebes." Sufficient, isn't it? The spooneying must all

be done, then, by the first and third classes. Often a great number of the first class are bachelors, or not

inclined to be spooney; and that duty then of course devolves on the more gallant part of that class and the

The hop managers of the third class have been mentioned elsewhere. They enjoy peculiar facilities for

pleasure, and, where a good selection has been made, do much to dispel the monotony of academic military

life. Indeed, they do very much toward inducing others to cultivate a high sense of gallantry and respect for

women. The refining influence of female society has greater play, and its good results are inevitable.

But what a wretched existence was mine when all this was denied me! One would be unwilling to believe I

had not, from October, 1875, till May, 1876, spoken to a female of any age, and yet it was so. There was no

society for me to enjoyno friends, male or female, for me to visit, or with whom I could have any social

intercourse, so absolute was my isolation.* Indeed, I had friends who often visited me, but they did so only

when the weather was favorable. In the winter season, when nature, usually so attractive, presented nothing to

amuse or dispel one's gloom, and when, therefore, something or some one suited for that purpose was so

desirable, no one of course visited me. But I will not murmur. I suppose this was but another constituent of

that mechanical mixture of ills and anxieties and suspense that characterized my cadet life. At any rate I can

console myself in my victory over prejudice, whether that victory be admitted or not. I know I have so lived

that they could find in me no fault different from those at least common to themselves, and have thus forced

upon their consciences a just and merited recognition whether or not they are disposed to follow conscience

*I could and did have a pleasant chat every day, more or less, with "Bentz the bugler," the tailor, barber,

commissary clerk, the policeman who scrubbed out my room and brought around the mail, the treasurer's

clerk, cadets occasionally, and others. The statement made in some of the newspapers, that from one year's

end to another I never heard the sound of my own voice, except in the recitation room, is thus seen to be

IT is a common saying among cadets that "firstclass camp is just like furlough." I rather think the assertion

is an inheritance from former days and the cadets of those days, for the similarity at present between

firstclass camp and furlough is beyond our conception. There is none, or if any it is chimerical, depending

entirely on circumstances. In the case of a small class it would be greater than in that of a large one. For

instance, in "train drill" a certain number of men are required. No more are necessary. It would be

inexpedient to employ a whole class when the class had more men in it than were required for the drill. In

such cases the supernumeraries are instructed in something else, and alternate with those who attend train

drill. In the case of a small class all attend the same drill daily, and that other duty or drill is reserved for

autumn. Thus there is less drill in camp, and it becomes more like furlough when there is none at all.

Again, firstclassmen enjoy more privileges than others, and for this reason their camp is more like furlough.

If, however, there are numerous drills, the analogy will fail; for how can duty, drills, etc., coexist with

privileges such as firstclass privileges? Time which otherwise would be devoted to enjoyment of privileges

is now consumed in drills. Still there is much in it which makes firstclass camp the most delightful part of a

cadet's life. There are more privileges, the duties are lighter and more attractive, and make it withal more

enjoyable. First, members of the class attend drill both as assistants and as students. They are detailed as

chiefs of platoon, chiefs of section, chiefs of caissons, and as guidons at the light battery; as chiefs of pieces

at the several foot batteries; attend themselves at the siege or seacoast batteries, train drill, pontoon drill,

engineering, ordnance, and astronomy, and they are also detailed as officers of the guard. These duties are

generally not very difficult nor unpleasant to discharge. Second, from the nature of the privileges allowed

firstclassmen, they have more opportunity for pleasure than other cadets, and therefore avoid the rather

serious consequences of their monotonous academic military life. A solitary monotonous life is rather apt to

engender a dislike for mankind, and no high sense of honor or respect for women. I deem these privileges of

especial importance, as they enable one to avoid that danger and to cultivate the highest possible regard for

women, and those virtues and other Christian attributes of which they are the better exponents. A soldier is

particularly liable to fall into this sanssouci way of looking at life, and those to whom its pleasures, as well

as its ills, are largely due. We are indebted to our fellows for every thing which affects our life as regards its

happiness or unhappiness, and this latter misfortune will rarely be ours if we properly appreciate our friends

and those who can and will make life less wretched. To shut one's self up in one's self is merely to trust, or

rather to set up, one's own judgment as superior to the world's. That cannot be, nor can there be happiness in

At this point of the course many of the firstclass have attained their majority. They are men, and in one year

more will be officers of the army. It becomes them, therefore, to lay aside the ordinary student's r�le, and

assume a more dignified one, one more in conformity with their age and position. They leave all cadet r�les,

There are for them more privileges. They are more independentmore like men; and consequently they find

another kind of enjoyment in camp than that of the cadet. It is a general, a proper, a rational sort of pleasure

such as one would enjoy at home among relatives or friends, and hence the similarity between firstclass

But it is not thus with all firstclassmen. Many, indeed the majority, are cadets till they graduate. They see

every thing as a cadet, enjoy every thing as a cadet, and find the duties, etc., of firstclass camp as irksome as

those of plebe or yearling camp. Of course such men see no similarity between first class camp and

furlough. It is their misfortune. We should enjoy as many things as we can, and not sorrow over them. We

should not make our life one of sorrow when it could as well be one of comfort and pleasure. I don't mean

comfort and pleasure in an epicurean sense, but in a moral one. Still firstclassmen do have many duties to

perform, but there is withal one consolation at least, there are no upper classmen to keep the plebe or yearling

in his place. There is no feeling of humbleness because of junior rank, for the first class is the first in rank,

Again, their honor, as "cadets and gentlemen," is relied upon as surety for obedience and regard for

regulations. They are not subject to constant watching as plebes are. The rigor of discipline is not so severe

upon them as upon others. It was expended upon them during their earlier years at the Academy, and, as a

natural consequence, any violation of regulations, etc., by a firstclassman, merits and receives a severer

punishment than would be visited upon a junior classman for a like infringement on his part.

The duties of firstclassmen in firstclass camp are as follows: The officer of the day and two officers of the

guard are detailed each day from the class. Their duties are precisely those of similar officers in the regular

army. The junior officer of the guard daily reports to the observatory to find the error of the tower clock. Also

each day are detailed the necessary assistants for the several light batteries, who are on foot or mounted, as

the case may require. The remainder of the class receive instructions in the service of the siege and seacoast

artillery. These drills come in the early forenoon. After them come ordnance and engineering.

The entire class is divided as equally as may be into two parts, which alternate in attendance at ordnance and

In ordnance the instructions are on the preparation of military fireworks, fixing of ammunition and packing it,

the battery wagon and forge. This instruction is thoroughly practical. The cadets make the cases for rockets,

paper shells, etc., and fill them, leaving them ready for immediate use. The stands of fixed ammunition

The instructions in engineering are also practical and military. They are in the modes of throwing and

dismantling pontoon bridges, construction of fascines, gabions, hurdles, etc., and revetting batteries with

them. Sometimes also during camp, more often after, foot reconnoissances are made. A morning and night

detail is made daily from the class to receive practical instruction in astronomy in the field observatory.

Night signalling with torches, and telegraphy by day, form other sources of instruction for the first class.

Telegraphy, or train drill, as the drill is called, consists in erecting the telegraph line and opening

communication between two stations, and when this is done, in communicating so as to acquire a practical

These various drillsall of them occurring daily, Sunday of course excepted, and for part of them Saturday

alsocomplete the course of instruction given the first class only during their firstclass camp. It will be

observed that they all of them are of a military nature and of the greatest importance. The instruction is

I have sufficiently described, I think, a cadet's firstclass camp. I shall, therefore, close the chapter here.

Ten Days of Centennial Sport for Prospective Warriors The Miseries of three hundred Young Gentlemen

"ALMOST at the foot of George's Hill, and not far to the westward of Machinery Hall, is the camp of the

West Point cadets. From morning till night the domestic economy of the three hundred young gentlemen who

compose the corps is closely watched, and their guard mountings and dress parades attract throngs of

spectators. It would be hard to find anywhere a body of young men so manly in appearance, so perfect in

discipline, and so soldierlike and intelligent. The system of competitive examination for admission, so

largely adopted within the past few years in many of our large cities, has resulted in recruiting the corps with

lads of bright intellect and more than ordinary attainments, while the strict physical examination has

rigorously excluded all but those of good form and perfect health. The competitive system has also given to

the Academy students who want to learn, instead of lads who are content to scramble through the prescribed

course as best they can, escaping the disgrace of being "found" (a cadet term equivalent to the old college

"The camp.The camp is laid out in regulation style, and has four company streets. Near the western limit

of the Centennial grounds are the tents of the commandant and the cadet captains and lieutenants. Below, on

a gentle incline, are the wall tents, occupied by the cadets. Each of these has a board floor, and it is so

arranged that when desired it may be thrown open on all sides. From two to four narrow iron cots, a bucket

for water, an occasional chair, and now and then a mirror, comprise the furniture. But scanty as it is, every

article of this little outfit has a place, and must be kept in it, or woe to the unlucky wight upon whom the duty

of housekeeping devolves for the day. The bucket must stand on the lefthand side of the tent, in front; the

beds must be made at a certain hour and in a certain stylefor the coming heroes of America have to be their

own chambermaids; while valises and other baggage must be stowed away in as orderly a way as possible.

Every morning the tents are inspected, and any lack of neatness or order insures for the chambermaid of the

day a misconduct mark. It may be easily conceived that under a regime so strict as this the cadets are

particularly careful as to their quarters, inasmuch as one hundred of these marks mean dismissal from the

"At daybreak the reveille sounds, and the cadets turn out for rollcall. Then come breakfast, guard mounting,

and camp and general police duty, which consume the time until 8.30 A.M., from which hour those who are

not on guard have the freedom of the Centennial grounds. At 5 P.M. they must fall in for dress parade; at 9

they answer to 'tattoo' rollcall, and a few minutes later 'taps' or 'lights out' consigns them to darkness and

"West Point Aristocracy.Small as is this corps, it is still patent that the distinction of caste is very strong. A

firstclassmancadet officers are selected from this classlooks down upon lower grade men, while

secondclass cadets view their juniors with something nearly allied to contempt, and thirdclass men are

amusingly patronizing in their treatment of 'plebes' or newcomers. For the first year of their Academy life

the 'plebes' have rather a hard time of it; but no sooner do they emerge from their chrysalis state than they are

as hard upon their unfortunate successors as the thirdclass men of the year before were upon them.

"The cadets are delighted with their reception and kind treatment in Philadelphia, and look upon their ten

days' visit to the Centennial as a most pleasant break in the monotony of Academy life. That they maintain

the reputation of the Academy for gallantry and devotion to the fair sex is evidenced by the presence of

numbers of beautiful young ladies in their camp after dress parade every evening. Given, a pretty girl, the

twilight of a summer evening, and a youth in uniform, and the result is easily guessed.

"The Cadet Corps is to return to West Point tomorrow morning. There the cadets are to go into camp until

September. General Sherman at one time purposed to have them march from this city to the Academy, but it

was finally decided that the march would consume time which might be more profitably devoted to drill.

"One of the complaints of the cadets is that in the arrangements for their visit, the Quartermaster's

Department was stricken with a spasm of economy as regarded transportation, and each of the future heroes

was limited to the miserably insufficient allowance of ten pairs of white trousers.

"The cadets speak in warmly eulogistic terms of the Seventh New York, to whose kindly attentions, they say,

Of this article, which was taken from the Philadelphia Times, I need only say, those "two or four narrow iron

cots" and that "occasional chair" existed solely in the imagination of the reporter, as they were nowhere

"How do they treat you?" "How do you get along?" and multitudes of analogous questions have been asked

me over and over again. Many have asked them for mere curiosity's sake, and to all such my answers have

been as short and abrupt as was consistent with common politeness. I have observed that it is this class of

people who start rumors, sometimes harmless, but more often the cause of needless trouble and illfeeling. I

have considered such a class dangerous, and have therefore avoided them as much as it was possible. I will

A Democratic newspaper, published I know not where, in summing up the faults of the Republican party,

took occasion to advert to West Point. It asserted in bold characters that I had stolen a number of articles from

two cadets, had by them been detected in the very act, had been seen by several other cadets who had been

summoned for the purpose that they might testify against me, had been reported to the proper authorities, the

affair had been thoroughly investigated by them, my guilt established beyond the possibility of doubt, and yet

my accusers had actually been dismissed while I was retained.* This is cited as an example of Republican

rule; and the writer had the effrontery to ask, "How long shall such things be?" I did not reply to it then, nor

do I intend to do so now. Such assertions from such sources need no replies. I merely mention the incident to

show how wholly given to party prejudices some men can be. They seem to have no thought of right and

justice, but favor whatever promotes the aims and interests of their own party, a party not Democratic but

hellish. How different is the following article from the Philadelphia North American, of July 7th, 1876:

*This article was cut from a newspaper, and, together with the name of the paper, was posted in a

"It is very little to the credit of the West Point cadets, a body of young men in whose superior discipline and

thoroughly excellent deportment we feel in common with nearly all others a gratified pride, that they should

be so ungenerous and unjust as they confess themselves to be in their treatment of the colored boy, who, like

themselves, has been made a ward of the nation. We know nothing of this young man's personal character or

habits, but we have seen no unkind criticism of them. For that reason we condemn as beneath contempt the

spirit which drives him to an isolation, in bearing which the black shows himself the superior of the white.

We do not ask nor do we care to encourage any thing more than decent courtesy. But the young gentlemen

who boast of holding only official intercourse with their comrade should remember that no one of them

stands before the country in any different light from him. West Point is an academy for the training of young

men, presumably representative of the people, for a career sufficiently honorable to gratify any ambition. The

cadets come from all parts of the country, from all ranks of the social scale. Amalgamated by the uniform

course of studies and the similarity of discipline, the separating fragments at the end of the student life carry

similar qualities into the life before them, and step with almost remarkable social equality into the world

where they must find their level. It would be expecting too much to hope that the companionship which

surmounts or breaks down all the barriers of caste, should tread with equal heel the prejudices of color. But it

would be more manly in these boys, if they would remember how easy ordinary courtesy would be to them,

how much it would lighten the life of a young man whose rights are equal to their own. It is useless to ignore

the inevitable. This colored boy has his place; he should have fair, encouragement to hold it. Heaping neglect

upon him does not overcome the principle involved in his appointment, and while we by no means approve

On the other hand, many have desired this information for a practical use, and that, too, whether they were

prejudiced or not. That is, if friends, they were anxious to know how I fared, whether or not I was to be a

success, and if a success to use that fact in the interest of the people; and if enemies, they wanted naturally to

know the same things in order to use the knowledge to the injury of the people if I proved a failure.

I have not always been able to distinguish one class from the other, and have therefore been quite reticent

about my life and treatment at West Point. I have, too, avoided the newspapers as much as possible. I

succeeded in this so well that it was scarcely known that I was at the Academy. Much surprise was

manifested when I appeared in Philadelphia at the Centennial. One gentleman said to me in the Government

building: "You are quite an exhibition yourself. No one was expecting to see a colored cadet."

But I wander from my theme. It is a remarkable fact that the new cadets, in only a very few instances, show

any unwillingness to speak or fraternize. It is not till they come in contact with the rougher elements of the

corps that they manifest any disposition to avoid one. It was so in my own class, and has been so in all

When I was a plebe those of us who lived on the same floor of barracks visited each other, borrowed books,

heard each other recite when preparing for examination, and were really on most intimate terms. But alas! in

less than a month they learned to call me "nigger," and ceased altogether to visit me. We did the Point

together, shared with each other whatever we purchased at the sulter's, and knew not what prejudice was.

Alas! we were soon to be informed! In camp, brought into close contact with the old cadets, these once

friends discovered that they were prejudiced, and learned to abhor even the presence or sight of a "dd

Just two years after my entrance into the Academy, I met in New York a young man who was a plebe at the

time I was, and who then associated with me. He recognized me, hurried to me from across the street, shook

my hand heartily, and expressed great delight at seeing me. He showed me the photograph of a classmate,

told me where I could find him, evidently ignorant of my ostracism, and, wishing me all sorts of success,

took his leave. After he left me I involuntarily asked myself, "Would it have been thus if he had not been

There are some, indeed the majority of the corps are such, who treat me on all occasions with proper

politeness. They are gentlemen themselves, and treat others as it becomes gentlemen to do. They do not

associate, nor do they speak other than officially, except in a few cases. They are perhaps as much prejudiced

as the others, but prejudice does not prevent all from being gentlemen. On the other hand, there are some

from the very lowest classes of our population. They are uncouth and rough in appearance, have only a

rudimentary education, have little or no idea of courtesy, use the very worst language, and in most cases are

much inferior to the average negro. What can be expected of such people? They are low, and their conduct

must be in keeping with their breeding. I am not at all surprised to find it so. Indeed, in ordinary civil life I

should consider such people beneath me in the social scale, should even reckon some of them as roughs, and

What surprises me most is the control this class seems to have over the other. It is in this class I have

observed most prejudice, and from it, or rather by it, the other becomes tainted. It seems to rule the corps by

fear. Indeed, I know there are many who would associate, who would treat me as a brother cadet, were they

not held in constant dread of this class. The bullies, the fighting men of the corps are in it. It rules by fear, and

whoever disobeys its beck is "cut." The rest of the corps follows like so many menials subject to command.

In short, there is a fearful lack of backbone. There is, it seems at first sight, more prejudice at West Point than

The officers of the institution have never, so far as I can say, shown any prejudice at all. They have treated

me with uniform courtesy and impartiality. The cadets, at least some of them, away from West Point, have

also treated me with such gentlemanly propriety. The want of backbone predominates to such an alarming

extent at West Point they are afraid to do so there. I will mention a few cases under this subject of treatment.

During my firstclass camp I was rather surprised on one occasion to have a plebewe had been to the

Centennial Exhibition and returned, and of course my status must have been known to himcome to my tent

to borrow ink of me. I readily complied with his request, feeling proud of what I thought was the beginning

of a new era in my cadet life. I felt he would surely prove himself manly enough, after thus recognizing me,

to keep it up, and thus bring others under his influence to the same cause. And I was still further assured in

this when I observed he made his visits frequent and open. At length, sure of my willingness to oblige him,

he came to me, and, after expressing a desire to "bone up" a part of the fourth class course, and the need he

felt for such "boning," begged me to lend him my algebra. I of course readily consented, gave him my key,

and sent him to my trunk in the trunk rooms to get it. He went. He got it, and returned the key. He went into

ecstasies, and made no end of thanks to me for my kindness, etc. All this naturally confirmed my opinion and

hope of better recognition ultimately. Indeed, I was glad of an opportunity to prove that I was not unkind or

ungenerous. I supposed he would keep the book till about September, at which time he would get one of his

own, as every cadet at that time was required to procure a full course of textbooks, these being necessary for

reference, etc., in future life. And so he did. Some time after borrowing the book, he came to me and asked

for India ink. I handed him a stick, or rather part of one, and received as usual his many thanks. Several days

after this, and at night, during my absenceI was, if I remember aright, at Fort Clinton making a series of

observations with a zenith telescope in the observatory therehe came to the rear of my tent, raised the wall

near one corner, and placed the ink on the floor, just inside the wall, which he left down as he found it.

I found the ink there when I returned. I was utterly disgusted with the man. The low, unmanly way in which

he acted was wholly without my approval. If he was disposed to be friendly, why be cowardly about it? If he

must recognize me secretly, why, I would rather not have such recognition. Acting a lie to his fellow cadets

by appearing to be inimical to me and my interests, while he pretended the reverse to me, proved him to have

September came at last, and my algebra was returned. The book was the one I had used my first year at the

Academy. I had preserved it, as I have all of my books, for future use and as a sort of souvenir of my cadet

life. It was for that sole reason of great value to me. I enjoined upon him to take care of the book, and in

nowise to injure it. My name was on the back, on the cover, and my initial, "F," in two other places on the

cover. When the book was returned he had cut the calfskin from the cover, so as to remove my name. The

result was a horrible disfiguration of the book, and a serious impairment of its durability. The mere sight of

the book angered me, and I found it difficult to retrain from manifesting as much. He undoubtedly did it to

conceal the fact that the book was borrowed from me. Such unmanliness, such cowardice, such baseness

even, was most disgusting; and I felt very much as if I would like towell, I don't know that I would. There

was no reason at all for mutilating the book. If he was not man enough to use it with my name on it, why did

he borrow it and agree not to injure it? On that sole condition I lent it. Why did he not borrow some one else's

I have been asked, "What is the general feeling of the corps towards you? Is it a kindly one, or is it an

unfriendly one. Do they purposely illtreat you or do they avoid you merely?" I have found it rather difficult

to answer unqualifiedly such questions; and yet I believe, and have always believed, that the general feeling

of the corps towards me was a kindly one. This has been manifested in multitudes of ways, on innumerably

occasions, and under the most various circumstances. And while there are some who treat me at times in an

unbecoming manner, the majority of the corps have ever treated me as I would desire to be treated. I mean, of

course, by this assertion that they have treated me as I expected and really desired them to treat me, so long as

they were prejudiced. They have held certain opinions more or less prejudicial to me and my interests, but so

long as they have not exercised their theories to my displeasure or discomfort, or so long as they have "let me

severely alone," I had no just reason for complaint. Again, others, who have no theory of their own, and

almost no manliness, have been accustomed "to pick quarrels," or to endeavor to do so, to satisfy I don't

know what; and while they have had no real opinions of their own, they have not respected those of others.

Their feeling toward me has been any thing but one of justice, and yet at times even they have shown a

remarkable tendency to recognize me as having certain rights entitled to their respect, if not their

As I have been practically isolated from the cadets, I have had little or no intercourse with them. I have

therefore had but little chance to know what was really the feeling of the corps as a unit toward myself.

Judging, however, from such evidences as I have, I am forced to conclude that it is as given above, viz., a

I once heard a cadet make the following unchristian remark about myself when a classmate had been

accidentally hurt at lightbattery drill: "I wish it had been the nigger, and it had killed him." I couldn't help

looking at him, and I did; but that, and nothing more. Some time after this, at cavalry drill, we were side by

side, and I had a rather vicious horse, one in fact which I could not manage. He gave a sudden jump

unexpectedly to me. I almost lost my seat in the saddle. This cadet seized me by the arm, and in a tone of

voice that was evidently kind and generous, said to me, "For heaven's sake be careful. You'll be thrown and

Another evidence, and an important one, may be given in these words. It is customary for the senior, or, as

we say, the first class, to choose, each member, a horse, and ride him exclusively during the term. The choice

is usually made by lot, and each man chooses according to the number he draws. By remarkable good fortune

I drew No. 1, and had therefore the first choice of all the horses in the stables.

As soon as the numbers drawn were published, several classmates hastened to me for the purpose of effecting

an exchange of choice. It will at once be seen that any such change would in no manner benefit me, for if I

lost the first choice I might also lose the chance of selecting a good horse. With the avowed intention of

proving that I had at least a generous disposition, and also that I was not disposed to consider, in my

reciprocal relations with the cadets, how I had been, and was even then treated by them, I consented to

This agreement was made with the first that asked for an exchange. Several others came, and, when informed

of the previous agreement, of course went their way. A day or two after this a number of cadets were

discussing the choice of horses, etc., and reverted to the exchange which I had made. One of them suggested

that if an exchange of a choice higher than fourteen were suggested to me, I might accept it.

What an idea, he must have had of my character to suppose me base enough to disregard an agreement I had

However, all in the crowd were not as base as he was, and one of them was man enough to say:

"Oh no! that would be imposing upon Mr. Flipper's good nature." He went on to show how ungentlemanly

and unbecoming in a "cadet and gentleman" such an act would be. The idea was abandoned, or at least was

never broached to me, and if it had been I would never have entertained it. Such an act on the part of the

cadet could have arisen only from a high sense of manly honor or from a feeling of kindness.

There are multitudes of little acts of kindness similar to these, and even different ones. I need notindeed as

I do not remember them all I cannot mention them all. They all show, however, that the cadets are not

avowedly inclined to illtreat me, but rather to assist me to make my life under the circumstances as pleasant

as can be. And there may be outside influences, such as relatives or friends, which bias their own better

judgments and keep them from fully and openly recognizing me. For however hard either way may be, it is

far easier to do as friends wish than as conscience may dictate, when conscience and friends differ. Under

such conditions it would manifestly be unjust for me to expect recognition of them, even though they

themselves were disposed to make it. I am sure this is at least a Christian view of the case, and with such

view I have ever kept aloof from the cadets. I have not obtruded myself upon them, nor in any way attempted

to force recognition from them. This has proved itself to be by far the better way, and I don't think it could

The one principle which has controlled my conduct while a cadet, and which is apparent throughout my

narrative, is briefly this: to find, if possible, for every insult or other offence a reason or motive which is

consistent with the character of a gentleman. Whenever I have been insulted, or any thing has been done or

said to me which might have that construction, I have endeavored to find some excuse, some reason for it,

which was not founded on prejudice or on baseness of character or any other ungentlemanly attribute; or, in

other words, I wanted to prove that it was not done because of my color. If I could find such a reasonand I

have found themI have been disposed not only to overlook the offence, but to forgive and forget it. Thus

there are many cadets who would associate, etc., were they not restrained by the force of opinion of relatives

and friends. This cringing dependence, this vassalage, this mesmerism we may call it, we all know exists.

Why, many a cadet has openly confessed to me that he did not recognize us because he was afraid of being

Again, I find some too hightoned, too punctilious, to recognize me. I attribute this not to the loftiness of

their highnesses nor to prejudice, but to the depth of their ignorance, and of course I forgive and forget.

Others again are so "reckless," so "don't care" disposed, that they treat me as fancy dictates, now friendly,

now vacillating, and now inimical. With these I simply do as the Romans do. If they are friendly, so am I; if

they scorn me, I do not obtrude myself upon them; if they are indifferent, I am indifferent too.

There is a rather remarkable case under this subject which has caused me no little surprise and

disappointment. I refer to those cadets appointed by colored members of Congress.

It was quite natural to expect of them better treatment than of others, and yet if in any thing at all they

differed from the former, they were the more reserved and discourteous. They most "severely let me alone."

They never associated, nor did they speak, except officially, and then they always spoke in a haughty and

insolent manner that was to me most exasperating. And in one case in particular was this so. One of those so

appointed was the son of the colored Congressman who sent him there, and from him at least good treatment

was reasonably expected. There have been only two such appointments to my knowledge, and it is a singular

fact that they were both overbearing, conceited, and by no means popular with their comrades. The status of

one was but little better than my own, and only in that his comrades would speak and associate. He was not

There was a cadet in the corps with myself who invariably dropped his head whenever our eyes met. His

complexion was any thing but white, his features were rough and homely, and his person almost entirely

without symmetry or beauty. From this singular circumstance and his physique, I draw the conclusion that he

was more African than AngloSaxon. Indeed, I once heard as much insinuated by a fellowcadet, to whom

Near the close of this chapter I have occason to speak of fear. There I mean by fear a sort of shrinking

demeanor or disposition to accept insults and other petty persecutions as just dues, or to leave them

unpunished from actual cowardice, to which fear some have been pleased to attribute my generally good

treatment. This latter fact has been by many, to my personal knowledge, attributed to fear in another quarter,

viz., in the cadets themselves. It has many times been said to me by persons at West Point and elsewhere: "I

This idea was doubtless founded upon my physical proportionsI am six feet one and threequarter inches

high, and weigh one hundred and seventyfive pounds. In behalf of the corps of cadets I would disclaim any

First. Because the conception of the idea is not logical. I was not the tallest, nor yet the largest man in the

corps, nor even did I give any evidence of a disposition to fight or bully others.

Second. Because I did not come to West Point purposely to "go through on my muscle." I am not a fighting

Third. Because it is ungenerous to attribute what can result from man's better nature only to such base causes

as fear or cowardice. This seems to be about the only way in which many have endeavored to explain the

difference between my life at West Point and that of other colored cadets. They seem to think that my

physique inspired a sort of fear in the cadets, and forced them at least to let me alone, while the former ones,

smaller in size, did therefore create no such fear until by persistent retaliation it was shown they were able to

Now this, I think, is the most shallow of all reasoning and entirely unworthy our further notice.

Fourth. I should be grieved to suppose any one feared me. It is not my desire to go through life feared by any

one. I can derive no pleasure from any thing which is accorded me through motives of fear. The grant must

be spontaneous and voluntary to give me the most pleasure. I want nothing, not even recognition, unless it be

"But the sensible Flipper accepted the situation, and proudly refused to intrude himself on the white boys."

Fifth. Because it is incompatible with the dignity of a "cadet and a gentleman" for one to fear another.

Sixth. Because it is positively absurd to suppose that one man of three hundred more or less would be feared

by the rest individually and collectively, and no rational being would for an instant entertain any such idea.

There is, however, a single case which may imply fear on the part of the cadet most concerned. A number of

plebes, among them a colored one, were standing on the stoop of barracks. There were also several cadets

standing in the doorway, and a sentinel was posted in the hall. This latter individual went up to one of the

cadets and said to him, "Make that nigger out there get his hands around," referring to this plebe mentioned

I happened to come down stairs just at that time, and as soon as he uttered those words he turned and saw me.

He hung his head, and in a cowardly manner sneaked off, while the cadets in the door also dispersed with

Again I recall a rather peculiar circumstance which will perhaps sustain this notion of fear on the part of the

cadets. I have on every occasion when I had command over my fellowcadets in any degree, noticed that

they were generally more orderly and more obedient than when this authority was exercised by another.

Thus whenever I commanded the guard there were very few reports for offences committed by members of

the guard. They have ever been obedient and military. In camp, when I was first in command of the guard, I

had a most orderly guard and a very pleasant tour, and that too, observe, while some of the members of it

were plebes and on for the first time. On all such occasions it is an immemorial custom for the yearlings to

interfere with and haze the plebe sentinels. Not a sentinel was disturbed, not a thing went amiss, and why?

Manifestly because it was thought and rightly toothat I would not connive at such interference, and

because they feared to attempt it lest they be watched and reported. Later, however, even this semblance of

fear disappeared, and they acted under me precisely as they do under others, because they are convinced that

"The boys were rather afraid that when he should come to hold the position as officer of the guard that he

would swagger over them; but he showed good sense and taste, merely assuming the rank formally and

And just here it is worthy of notice that the press, in commenting upon my chances of graduating, has never,

so far as I know, entertained any doubts of my ability to do so. It has, on the contrary, expressed the belief

that the probability of my graduating depended upon the officers of the Academy, and upon any others who,

by influence or otherwise, were connected with the Academy. Some have even hinted at politics as a possible

All such opinions have been created and nurtured by the hostile portion of the press, and, I regret to say, by

that part also which ought to have been more friendly, if not more discreet. No branch of the government is

freer from the influences and whims of politicians than the National Military Academy. Scarcely any paper

has considered how the chances of any cadet depended upon himself alone. The authorities of the Academy

are, or have been, officers of the army. They are, with one or two exceptions, graduates, and therefore,

presumably, "officers and gentlemen." To transform young men into a like ilk as themselves is their duty.

The country intrusts them with this great responsibility. To prove faithless to such a charge would be to risk

position, and even those dearer attributes of the soldier, honor and reputation. They would not dare illtreat a

colored cadet or a white one. Of course the prejudice of race is not yet overcome entirely, and possibly they

may be led into some indiscretion on account of it; but I do not think it would be different at any other

There are prejudices of caste as well as prejudices of race, and I am most unwilling to believe it possible that

any officer would treat with injustice a colored cadet who in true gentlemanly qualities, intelligence, and

assiduousness equals or excels certain white ones who are treated with perfect equanimity. With me it has not

been so. I have been treated as I would wish to be in the majority of cases. There have been of course

occasions where I've fancied wrong had been done me. I expected to be illtreated. I went to West Point fully

convinced that I'd have "a rough time of it." Who that has read the many newspaper versions of the treatment

of colored cadets, and of Smith in particular would not have been so convinced? When, therefore, any affront

or any thing seemingly of that nature was offered me, I have been disposed, naturally I think, to unduly

magnify it, because I expected it. This was hasty and unjust, and so I admit, now that I am better informed.

What was apparently done to incommode or discourage me has been shown to have been done either for my

own benefit or for some other purpose, not to my harm. In every single instance I have, after knowing better

the reason for such acts, felt obliged to acknowledge the injustice of my fears. At other times I have been

agreeably surprised at the kindnesses shown me both by officers and cadets, and have found myself at great

I have, too, been particularly careful not to fall into an error, which, I think, has been the cause of misfortune

to at least one of the cadets of color. If a cadet affront another, if a white cadet insult a colored one for

instance, the latter can complain to The proper authorities, and, if there be good reason for it, can always get

proper redress. This undoubtedly gives the consolation of knowing that the offence will not be repeated, but

beyond that I think it a great mistake to have so sought it. A person who constantly complains, even with

some show of reason, loses more or less the respect of the authorities. And the offenders, while they refrain

from open acts, do nevertheless conduct their petty persecutions in such a manner that one can shape no

charge against them, and consequently finds himself helpless. One must endure these little torturesthe

sneer, the shrug of the shoulder, the epithet, the effort to avoid, to disdain, to ignore and thus suffer; for

any of them areto me at least far more hard to bear than a blow. A blow I may resist or ignore. In either

case I soon forget it. But a sneer, a shrug of the shoulder, mean more. Either is a blow at my sensitiveness,

my inner feelings, and which through no ordinary effort of mind can be altogether forgotten. It is a sting that

burns long and fiercely. How much better to have ignored the greater offences which could be reached, and to

have thus avoided the lesser ones, which nothing can destroy! How much wiser to stand like a vast front of

fortification, on some rocky moral height absolutely unassailable, passively resisting alike the attack by open

assault and the surer one by regular approaches! The assault can be repulsed, but who can, who has ever

successfully stopped the mines and the galleries through which an entrance is at length forced into the

"We cannot expect the sons to forget the lessons of the sires; but we have a right to demand from the general

government the rooting out of all snobbery at West Point, whether it is of that kind which sends poor white

boys to Coventry, because they haven't a family name or wealth, or whether it be that smallest, meanest, and

"If the government is not able to root out these unrepublican seeds in these hotbeds of disloyalty and

snobbery, let Congress shut up the useless and expensive appendages and educate its officers at the colleges

of the country, where they may learn lessons in true Republican equality and nationality. The remedy lies

with Congress. A remonstrance, at least, should be heard from the colored members of Congress, who are

insulted whenever a colored boy is illtreated by the students or the officers of these institutions. So far from

being discouraged by defeats, the unjust treatment meted out to the young men should redouble the efforts of

others of their class to conquer this new Bastile by storm. It should lead every colored Congressman to make

sure that he either sends a colored applicant or a white one who has not the seeds of snobbery or caste in his

I shall consider this last clause at the end of this chapter, where I shall quote at length the article from which

If I may be pardoned an opinion on this article, I do not think the true remedy lies with Congress at all. I do

not question the right to demand of Congress any thing, but I do doubt the propriety or need of such a

proceeding, of course, in the case under consideration. As to "that kind which sends poor white boys to

Coventry," because of their poverty, etc., I can say with absolute truthfulness it no longer exists. When it did

exist the power to discontinue it did not lie with Congress. Congress has no control over personal whims or

prejudices. But I make a slight mistake. There was a time when influence, wealth, or position was able to

secure a cadetship. At that time poor boys very rarely succeeded in getting an appointment, and when they

did they were most unmercifully "cut" by the snobs of aristocracy who were at the Academy. Then the

remedy did lie with Congress. The appointments could have been so made as to exclude those snobs whose

only recommendation was their position in society, and so also as to admit boys who were deserving,

although they were perhaps poor. This remedy has been made, and all classes (white), whether poor or rich,

But for that other kind, "the one founded upon color," Congress has no remedy, no more than for fanaticism

This article also tells us that "the government has been remiss in not throwing around them the protection of

its authority." I disdainfully scout the idea of such protection. If my manhood cannot stand without a

governmental prop, then let it fall. If I am to stand on any other ground than the one white cadets stand upon,

then I don't want the cadetship. If I cannot endure prejudice and persecutions, even if they are offered, then I

don't deserve the cadetship, and much less the commission of an army officer. But there is a remedy, a way to

root out snobbery and prejudice which but needs adoption to have the desired effect. Of course its adoption

by a single person, myself for instance, will not be sufficient to break away all the barriers which prejudice

has brought into existence. I am quite confident, however, if adopted by all colored cadets, it will eventually

work out the difficult though by no means insoluble problem, and give us further cause for joy and

The remedy lies solely in our case with us. We can make our life at West Point what we will. We shall be

treated by the cadets as we treat them. Of course some of the cadets are lowthey belong to the younger

classes and good treatment cannot be expected of them at West Point nor away from there. The others,

presumably gentlemen, will treat everybody else as becomes gentlemen, or at any rate as they themselves are

treated. For, as Josh Billings quaintly tells us, "a gentleman kant hide hiz true karakter enny more than a

Prejudice does not necessarily prevent a man's being courteous and gentlemanly in his relations with others.

If, then, they be prejudiced and treat one with ordinary civility, or even if they let one "severely alone," is

there any harm done? Is such a course of conduct to be denounced? Religiously, yes; but in the manner of

every day life and its conventionalities, I say not by any means. I have the rightno one will deny itof

choosing or rejecting as companions whomsoever I will. If my choice be based upon color, am I more wrong

in adopting it than I should be in adopting any other reason? it may be an unchristian opinion or fancy that

causes me to do it, but such opinion or fancy is my own, and I have a right to it. No one objects to prejudice

as such, but to the treatment it is supposed to cause. If one is disposed to illtreat another, he'll do it,

prejudiced or not prejudiced. Only low persons are so disposed, and happily so for West Point, and indeed for

"The system of competitive examination for admission, so largely adopted within the past few years in many

of our large cities, has resulted in recruiting the corps with lads of bright intellect and more than ordinary

attainments, while the strict physical examination has rigorously excluded all but those of good form and

perfect health. The competitive system has also given to the Academy students who want to learn, instead of

lads who are content to scramble through the prescribed course as best they can, escaping being "found" (a

cadet term equivalent to the old college word 'plucked') by merely a hair's breadth."

The old way of getting rid of the rough, uncouth characters was to "find" them. Few, very few of them, ever

got into the army. Now they are excluded by the system of competitive examination even from entering the

Military Academy, and if they should succeed in getting to West Point, they eventually fail, since men with

Now if the "colored cadets" be not of this class also, then their life at West Point will not be much harder than

that of the others. The cadets may not associate, but what of that? Am I to blame a man who prefers not to

associate with me? If that be the only charge against him, then my verdict is for acquittal. Though his conduct

arises from, to us, false premises, it is to his sincere convictions right, and we would not in the slightest

degree be justified in forcing him into our way of looking at it. In other words, the remedy does not lie with

The kind of treatment we are to receive at the hands of others depends entirely upon ourselves. I think my life

at West Point sufficiently proves the truth of this assertion. I entered the Academy at a time when, as one

paper had it, West Point was a "hotbed of disloyalty and snobbery, a useless and expensive appendage." I

expected all sorts of illtreatment, and yet from the day I entered till the day I graduated I had not cause to

utter so much as an angry word. I refused to obtrude myself upon the white cadets, and treated them all with

uniform courtesy. I have been treated likewise. It simply depended on me what sort of treatment I should

receive. I was careful to give no cause for bad treatment, and it was never put upon me. In making this

assertion I purposely disregard the instances of malice, etc., mentioned elsewhere, for the reason that I do not

believe they were due to any deep personal convictions of my inferiority or personal desire to impose upon

Our relations have been such, as any one will readily observe, that even officially they would have been

obliged to recognize me to a greater or less extent, or at the expense of their consciences ignore me. They

A rather unexpected incident occurred in the summer of '73, which will show perhaps how intense is that

gravitating forceif I may so term itwhich so completely changes the feelings of the plebes, and even

cadets, who, when they reported, were not at all prejudiced on account of color.

It was rather late at night and extremely dark. I was on guard and on post at the time. Approaching the lower

end of my post, No. 5, I heard my name called in a low tone by some one whom I did not recognize. I

stopped and listened. The calling was repeated, and I drew near the place whence it came. It proved to be a

cadet, a classmate of mine, and then a sentinel on the adjacent post, No. 4. We stood and talked quite awhile,

as there was no danger either of being seen by other cadetsan event which those who in any manner have

recognized me have strenuously avoidedor "hived standing on post." It was too dark. He expressed great

regret at my treatment, hoped it would be bettered, assured me that he would ever be a friend and treat me as

Another classmate told me, at another time, in effect the same thing. I very naturally expected a fulfilment of

these promises, but alas! for such hopes! They not only never fulfilled them, but treated me even as badly as

all the others. One of them was assigned a seat next to me at table. He would eat scarcely anything, and when

done with that he would draw his chair away and pretend to be imposed upon in the most degrading manner

possible. The other practised similar manoeuvres whenever we fell in at any formation of company or

section. They both called me "nigger," or "dd nigger," as suited their inclination. Yet this ought, I verily

believe, to be attributed not to them, but to the circumstances that led them to adopt such a course.

On one occasion, however, one of them brought to my room the integration of some differential equation in

mechanics which had been sent me by our instructor. He was very friendly then, apparently. He told me upon

leaving, if I desired any further information to come to his "house," and he would give it. I observed that he

One winter's night, while on guard in barracks during supper, a cadet of the next class above my own stopped

on my post and conversed with me as long as it was safe to do so. He expressed as all have who have

spoken to megreat regret that I should be so isolated, asked how I got along in my studies, and many other

like questions. He spoke at great length of my general treatment. He assured me that he was wholly

unprejudiced, and would ever be a friend. He even went far enough to say, to my great astonishment, that he

cursed me and my race among the cadets to keep up appearances with them, and that I must think none the

less well of him for so doing. It was a sort of necessity, he said, for he would not only be "cut," but would be

treated a great deal worse than I was if he should fraternize with me. Upon leaving me he said, "I'm dd

Unfortunately the gentleman failed at the examination, then not far distant, and of course did not have much

"The walk, the words, the gesture could supply, The habit mimic and the mien belie."

When the plebes reported in '76, and were given seats in the chapel, three of them were placed in the pew

with myself. We took seats in the following order, viz., first the commandant of the pew, a sergeant and a

classmate of mine, then a thirdclassman, myself, and the plebes. Now this arrangement was wholly

unsatisfactory to the thirdclassman, who turned to the sergeant and asked of him to place a plebe between

him and myself. The sergeant turned toward me, and with an angry gesture ordered me to "Get over there." I

refused, on the ground that the seat I occupied had been assigned me, and I therefore had no authority to

change it. Near the end of the service the third classman asked the sergeant to tell me to sit at the further end

of the seat. He did so. I refused on the same ground as before. He replied, "Well, it don't make any difference.

I'll see that your seat is changed." I feared he would go to the cadet quartermaster, who had charge of the

arrangement of seats, and have my seat changed without authority. I reported to the officer in charge of the

"You take the seat," said he, "assigned you in the guard house"the plan of the church, with names written

on the pews, was kept here, so that cadets could consult it and know where their seats were "and if

The next Sabbath I took it. I was ordered to change it. I refused on the authority just given above. The

sergeant then went to the commandant of cadets, who by some means got the impression that I desired to

change my seat. He sent for me and emphatically ordered me to keep the seat which had by his order been

assigned me. Thus the effort to change my seat, made by the thirdclassman through the sergeant, but

claimed to have been made by me, failed. It was out of the question for it to be otherwise. If the sergeant had

wanted the seat himself he would in all probability have got it, because he was my senior in class and lineal

rank. But the thirdclassman was my junior in both, and therefore could not, by any military regulation, get

possession of what I was entitled to by my superior rank. And the effort to do so must be regarded a

marvellous display of stupidity, or a belief on the part of the cadet that I could be imposed upon with

impunity, simply because I was alone and had shown no disposition to quarrel or demand either real or

While in New York during my furloughsummer of '75 I was introduced to one of her wealthy bankers.

We conversed quite a while on various topics, and finally resumed the subject on which we began, viz., West

Point. He named a cadet, whom I shall call for convenience John, and asked if I knew him. I replied in the

affirmative. After asking various other questions of him, his welfare, etc., he volunteered the following bit of

"Oh! yes," said he, "I've known John for several years. He used to peddle newspapers around the bank here. I

was agreeably surprised when I heard he had been appointed to a cadetship at West Point. The boys who

come in almost every morning with their papers told me John was to sell me no more papers. His mother has

scrubbed out the office here, and cleaned up daily for a number of years. John's a good fellow though, and I'm

This information was to me most startling. There certainly was nothing dishonorable in that sort of

labornay, even there was much in it that deserved our highest praise. It was honest, humble work. But who

would imagine from the pompous bearing assumed by the gentleman that he ever peddled newspapers, or that

his mother earned her daily bread by scrubbing on her knees office floors? And how does this compare with

It is not to me very pleasant to thus have another's private history revealed, but when it is done I can't help

feeling myself better in one sense at least than my selfstyled superiors. I certainly am not really one thing

and apparently another. The distant haughtiness assumed by some of them, and the constant endeavor to

avoid me, as if I were "a stick or a stone, the veriest poke of creation," had no other effect than to make me

feel as if I were really so, and to discourage and dishearten me. I hardly know how I endured it all so long. If

I were asked to go over it all again, even with the experience I now have, I fear I should fail. I mean of course

the strain on my mind and sensitiveness would be so great I'd be unable to endure it.

There is that in every man, it has been said, either good or bad, which will manifest itself in his speech or

acts. Keeping this in mind while I constantly study those around me, I find myself at times driven to most

extraordinary conclusions. If some are as good as their speech, then, if I may be permitted to judge, they have

most devoutly observed that blessed commandment, "Honor thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be

long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee," in that they have profited by their teaching both

On the other hand, we hear from many the very worst possible language. Some make pardonable errors,

while others make blunders for which there can be no excuse save ignorance. Judging their character by their

speech, what a sad condition must be theirs; and more, what a need for missionary work!

This state of affairs gives way in the second, and often in the first year, to instruction and discipline. West

Point's greatest glory arises from her unparalleled success in polishing these rough specimens and sending

them forth "officers and gentlemen." No college in the country has such a "heterogeneous

conglomeration"to quote Dr. Johnsonof classes. The highest and lowest are represented. The glory of

free America, her recognition of equality of all men, is not so apparent anywhere else as at West Point. And

were prejudice entirely obliterated, then would America in truth be that Utopia of which so many have but

dreamed. It is rapidly giving way to better reason, and the day is not far distant when West Point will stand

forth as the proud exponent of absolute social equality. Prejudice weakens, and ere long will fail completely.

The advent of general education sounds its death knell. And may the day be not afar off when America shall

proclaim her emancipation from the basest of all servitudes, the subservience to prejudice!

After feeling reasonably sure of success, I have often thought that my good treatment was due in a measure to

a sort of apprehension on the part of the cadets that, when I should come to exercise command over them, I

would use my authority to retaliate for any illtreatment I had suffered. I have thought this the case with

those especially who have been reared in the principles of prejudice, and often in none other, for "prejudices,

it is well known, are the most difficult to eradicate from the heart whose soil has never been loosened or

When the time did come, and I proved by purely gentlemanly conduct that it was no harder, no more

dishonorable, to be under me than under others, this reserve vanished to a very great extent. I might mention

At practical engineering, one day, three of us were making a gabion. One was putting in the watling, another

keeping it firmly down, while I was preparing it. I had had some instruction on a previous day as to how it

should be made, but the two others had not. When they had put in the watling to within the proper distance of

the top they began trimming off the twigs and butt ends of the withes. I happened to turn toward the gabion

and observed what they were doing. In a tone of voice, and with a familiarity that surprised my own self, I

exclaimed, "Oh, don't do that. Don't you see if you cut those off before sewing, the whole thing will come to

They stopped working, listened attentively, and one of them replied, "Yes, that would be the most sensible

way." I proceeded to show them how to sew the watling and to secure the ends. They were classmates. They

listened to my voluntary instruction and followed it without a thought of who gave it, or any feeling of

At foot battery drill one day I was chief of piece. After a time the instructor rested the battery. The

cannoneers at my piece, instead of going off and sitting down, gathered around me and asked questions about

the nomenclature of the piece and its carriage. "What is this?" "What is it for?" and many others. They were

thirdclassmen. Certainly there was no prejudice in this. Certainly, too, it could only be due to good conduct

Just after taps on the night of July 12th, 1876, while lying in my tent studying the stars, I happened to

It seems the cadet speaking had learned beforehand that he and myself would be on duty a few days hence,

myself as senior and he as junior officer of the guard. His chums were teasing him on his misfortune of being

under me as junior, which act caused him to enter into a violent panegyric upon me. He began by criticising

my military aptitude and the manner in which I was treated by the authorities, that is, by the cadet officers, as

"That nigger," said he, "don't keep dressed. Sometimes he's 'way head of the line. He swings his arms, and

does other things not half as well as other 'devils,' and yet he's not 'skinned' for it."

What a severe comment upon the way in which the file closers discharge their duties! Severe, indeed, it

would be were it true. It is hardly reasonable, I think, to suppose the fileclosers, in the face of prejudice and

the probability of being "cut," would permit me to do the things mentioned with impunity, while they

And here again we see the fox and sour grapes. The gentleman who so honored me with his criticism was

junior to me in every branch of study we had taken up to that time except in French. I was his senior in tactics

by well, to give the number of files would be to specify him too closely and make my narrative too

personal. Suffice it to say I ranked him, and I rather fancy, as I did not gain that position by favoritism, but by

study and proficiency, he should not venture to criticise. But so it is all through life, at West Point as well as

elsewhere. Malcontents are ever finding faults in others which they never think of discovering in themselves.

When the time came the detail was published at parade, and next day we duly marched on guard. When I

appeared on the general parade in full dress, I noticed mischievous smiles on more than one face, for the

majority of the corps had turned out to see me. I walked along, proudly unconscious of their presence.

Although I went through the ceremony of guard mounting without a single blunder, I was not at all at ease. I

inspected the front rank, while my junior inspected the rear. I was sorely displeased to observe some of the

cadets change color as they tossed up their pieces for my inspection, and that they watched me as I went

through that operation. Some of them were from the South, and educated to consider themselves far superior

to those of whom they once claimed the right of possession. I know it was to them most galling, and although

I fully felt the responsibility and honor of commanding the guard, I frankly and candidly confess that I found

I am as a matter of course opposed to prejudice, but I nevertheless hold that those who are not have just as

much right to their opinions on the matter as they would have to any one of the various religious creeds. We

in free America at least would not be justified in forcing them to renounce their views or beliefs on race and

We can sometimes, by so living that those who differ from us in opinion respecting any thing can find no

fault with us or our creed, influence them to a just consideration of our views, and perhaps persuade them

unconsciously to adopt our way of thinking. And just so it is, I think, with prejudice. There is a certain

dignity in enduring it which always evokes praise from those who indulge it, and also often discovers to them

Knowing that it would be unpleasant to my junior to have to ask my permission to do this or that, and not

wishing to subject him to more mortification than was possible, I gave him all the latitude I could, telling him

to use his own discretion, and that he need not ask my permission for any thing unless he chose.

This simple act, forgotten almost as soon as done, was in an exceedingly short time known to every cadet

throughout the camp, and I had the indescribable pleasure, some days after, of knowing that by it I had been

raised many degrees in the estimation of the corps. Nor did this knowledge remain in camp. It was spread all

over the Point. The act was talked of and praised by the cadets wherever they went, and their conversations

When on guard again I was the junior, and of course subject to the orders of the senior. He came to me

voluntarily, and in almost my own words gave me exactly the same privileges I had given my junior, who

was a chum of my present senior. In view of the ostracism and isolation to which I had been subjected, it was

expected that I would be severe, and use my authority to retaliate. When, however, I did a more Christian act,

did to others as I would have them do to me, and not as they had sometimes done, I gave cause for a similar

Indeed, while we are all prone to err, we are also very apt to do to others as they really do to us. If they treat

us well, we treat them well; if badly, we treat them so also. I believe such to be in accordance with our nature,

and if we do not always do so our failure is due to some influence apart from our better reason, if we do not

treat them well, or our first impulse if we do. If now, on the contrary, I had been severe and unnecessarily

imperious because of my power, I should in all probability have been treated likewise, and would have fallen

It has often occurred to me that the terms "prejudice of race, of color," etc., were misnomers, and for this

reason. As soon as I show that I have some good qualities, do some act of kindness in spite of insult, my

color is forgotten and I am well treated. Again, I have observed that colored men of character and intellectual

ability have been treated as men should be by all, whether friends or enemies; that is to say, no prejudice of

I have been so treated by men I knew to beto use a political term"vile democrats." Unfortunately a bad

temper, precipitation, stubbornness, and like qualities, all due to noneducation, are too often attributes of

colored men and women. These characteristics lower the race in the estimation of the whites, and produce, I

think, what we call prejudice. In fact I believe prejudice is due solely to noneducation and its effects in one

Prejudice ofwell, any word that will express these several characteristics would be better, as it would be

There is, of course, a very large class of ignorant and partially cultured whites whose conceptions can find no

other reason for prejudice than that of color. I doubt very much whether they are prejudiced on that account

as it is. I rather think they are so because they know others are for some reason, and so cringing are they in

their weakness that they follow like so many trained curs. This is the class we in the South are accustomed to

call the "poor white trash," and speaking of them generally I can neglect them in this discussion of my

In camp at night the duties of the officers of the guard are discharged part of the night by the senior and the

other part by the junior officer. As soon as it was nightto revert to the subject of this article my junior

"Just suit yourself. If you have any reason for wanting a particular part of the night, I shall be pleased to have

He chose the latter half of the night, and asked me to wake him at a specified time. After this he discovered a

The guard was turned out and inspected by the officer of the day at about 12.20 P.M. After the inspection I

retired, and was awakened between 1 and 2 P.M. by my junior, who then retired for the night.

Several of the cadets were reported to me by the corporals for violating regulations. The reports were duly

recorded in the guard report for the day. I myself reported but one cadet, and his offence was "Absence from

These reports were put in under my signature, though not at all made by me, as also was another of a very

It seemsfor I didn't know the initial circumstances of the casethat a citizen visiting at West Point asked a

cadet if he could see a friend of his who was a member of the corps. The cadet at once sought out the corporal

then on duty, and asked him to go to camp and turn out this friend. The corporal did not go. The cadet who

requested him to do so reported the fact to the officer of the day. The latter came at once to me and directed

me, as officer of the guard, to order him to go and turn out the cadet, and to see that he did it. I did as ordered.

The corporal replied, "I have turned him out." As the cadet did not make his appearance the officer of the day

himself went into camp, brought him out to his citizen friend, and then ordered me in positive terms to report

the corporal for gross disobedience of orders. I communicated to him the corporal's reply, and received a

repetition of his order. I obeyed it, entering on my guard report the following:

", disobedience of orders, not turning out a cadet for citizen when ordered to do so by the officer of the

The commandant sent for me, and learned from me all the circumstances of the case as far as I knew them.

Connected with this case is another, which, I think, should be recorded, to show how some have been

disposed to act and think concerning myself. At the dinner table, and on the very day this affair above

mentioned occurred, a cadet asked another if he had heard about, mentioning the name of the cadet

"Why, the officer of the day ordered him reported for disobedience of orders, and served him right too."

"Some cit wanted to see a cadet and asked Cif he could do so. Casked, who was then on duty, to go

to camp and turn him out. He didn't do it, but went off and began talking with some ladies. The officer of the

day directed the senior officer of the guard to order him to go. He did order him to go and replied, "I have

turned him out," and didn't go. The officer of the day then turned him out, and ordered him to be reported for

"Don' t see it? Why's relief was on post, and it was his duty to attend to all such calls during his tour; and

besides, I think ordinary politeness would have been sufficient to make him go."

"Because he's on guard today." What an excellent reason! "Because he's on guard today," or, in other

He then went on to speak of the injustice of the report, the malice and spirit of retaliation shown in giving it,

and hoped that the report would not be the cause of any punishment. And all this because the report was

When the corporal replied to me that he had turned out the cadet, I considered it a satisfactory answer,

supposing the cadet's nonappearance was due to delay in arranging his toilet. I had no intention of reporting

him, and did so only in obedience to positive orders. There surely was nothing malicious or retaliatory in that;

and to condemn me for discharging the first of all military dutiesviz., obedience of ordersis but to prove

the narrowness of the intellect and the baseness of the character which are vaunted as so far superior to those

of the "negro cadet," and which condemn him and his actions for no other reason than that they are his. How

could it be otherwise than that he be isolated and persecuted when such minds are concerned?

In his written explanation to the commandant the corporal admitted the charge of disobedience of orders on

his part, but excused himself by saying he had delegated another cadet to discharge the duty for him. This

For an incident connected with this tour of guard duty, see chapter on "Incidents, Humor," etc.

The only case of downright malice that has come to my knowledgeand I'm sure the only one that ever

It is a custom, as old as the institution I dare say, for cadets of the first and second classes to march in the

front rank, while all others take their places in the rear rank, with the exception that thirdclassmen may be in

the front rank whenever it is necessary for the proper formation of the company to put them there. The need

of such a custom is apparent. Fourthclassmen, or plebes not accustomed to marching and keeping dressed,

are therefore unfit to be put in the front rank. Third classmen have to give way to the upper classmen on

account of their superior rank, and are able to march in the front rank only when put there or allowed to

remain there by the fileclosers. When I was a plebe, and also during my thirdclass year, I marched

habitually in the rear rank, as stated with reason elsewhere. But when I became a secondclassman, and had

Just about this time I distinctly heard the cadet captain of my company say to the first sergeant, or rather ask

him why he did not put me in the rear rank. The first sergeant replied curtly, "Because he's a

secondclassman now, and I have no right to do it." This settled the question for the time, indeed for quite a

At a formation of the company for retreat parade in the early spring of '76, it was necessary to transfer some

one from the front to the rear rank. Now instead of transferring a third classman, the sergeant on the left of

the company ordered me, a second classman, into the rear rank. I readily obeyed, because I felt sure I'd be put

back after the company was formed and inspected, as had been done by him several times before. But this

was not done. I turned to the sergeant and reminded him that he had not put meback where I belonged. He at

once did so without apparent hesitation or unwillingness. He, however, reported me for speaking to him about

the discharge of his duties. For this offence, I submitted the following explanation:

Explanation: I would respectfully state that the above report is a mistake. I said nothing whatever about the

formation of the company. I was put in the rear rank, and, contrary to custom, left there. As soon as the

command " In place, rest," was given, I turned to the nearest sergeant and said, "Mr., can I take my place

in the front rank?" He leaned to the front and looked along the line. I then said, "There are men in the front

rank who are junior to me." I added, a moment after, "There is one just up there," motioning with my head

This explanation was sent by the commandant to the reporting sergeant. He indorsed it in about the following

Respectfully returned with the following statement: It was necessary in forming the company to put Cadet

Flipper in the rear rank, and as I saw no third classman in the front rank, I left him there as stated. I reported

him because I did not think he had any right to speak to me about the discharge of my duty.

A polite question a reflection on the manner of discharging one's duty! A queer construction indeed! Observe,

he says, he saw no thirdclassman in the front rank. It was his duty to be sure about it, and if there was one

there to transfer him to the rear, and myself to the front rank. In not doing so he neglected his duty and

imposed upon me and the dignity of my class. I was therefore entirely justified in calling his attention to his

This is a little thing, but it should be borne in mind that it is nevertheless of the greatest importance. We

know what effect comity or international politeness has on the relations or intercourse between nations. The

most trifling acts, such as congratulations on a birth or marriage in the reigning family, are wonderfully

efficacious in keeping up that feeling of amity which is so necessary to peace and continued friendship

between states. To disregard these little things is considered unfriendly, and may be the cause of serious

There is a like necessity, I think, in our own case. Any affront to me which is also an affront to my class and

its dignity deserves punishment or satisfaction. To demand it, then, gives my class a better opinion of me, and

I knew well that there were men in the corps who would readily seize any possible opportunity to report me,

and I feared at the time that I might be reported for speaking to the sergeant. I was especially careful to guard

against anger or roughness in my speech, and to put my demand in the politest form possible. The offence

was removed. I received no demerits, and the sergeant had the pleasure or displeasure of grieving at the

I am sorry to know that I have been charged, by some not so well acquainted with West Point and life there as

they should be to criticise, with manifesting a lack of dignity in that I allowed myself to be insulted, imposed

upon, and otherwise illtreated. There appears to them too great a difference between the treatment of former

colored cadets and that of myself, and the only way they are pleased to account for this difference is to say

that my good treatment was due to want of "spunk," and even to fear, as some have said. It evidently never

occurred to them that my own conduct determined more than all things else the kind of treatment I would

Every one not stubbornly prejudiced against West Point, and therefore not disposed to censure or criticise

every thing said or done there, knows how false the charge is. And those who make it scarcely deserve my

notice. I would say to them, however, that true dignity, selon nous, consists in being above the rabble and

their insults, and particularly in remaining there. To stoop to retaliation is not compatible with true dignity,

nor is vindictiveness manly. Again, the experiment suggested by my accusers has been abundantly tried, and

I do not mean to boast or do any thing of the kind, but I would suggest to all future colored cadets to base

their conduct on the aristonmetpon, the golden mean. It is by far the safer, and surely the most Christian

Before closing this chapter I would add with just pride that I have ever been treated by all other persons

connected with the Academy not officially, as becomes one gentleman to treat another. I refer to servants,

soldiers, other enlisted men, and employ�s. They have done for me whatever I wished, whenever I wished,

and as I wished, and always kindly and willingly. They have even done things for me to the exclusion of

others. This is important when it is remembered that the employ�s, with one exception, are white.

"'Alexander Bouchet, a young man of color, graduates from Yale College, holding the fifth place in the

"These simple announcements from different papers tersely sum up the distinction between the military and

civil education of this country. One is exclusive, snobbish, and narrow, the other is liberal and democratic.

"No one who has watched the course of Cadet Smith and the undemocratic, selfish, and snobbish treatment

he has experienced from the martinets of West Point, men educated at the expense of the government,

supported by negro taxes, as well as white, who attempt to dictate who shall receive the benefits of an

education in our national charity schoolsno one who has read of his courtmartialings, the degradations

and the petty insults inflicted upon him can help feeling that he returns home today, in spite of the Phoenix's

sneers, a young hero who has 'passed' in grit, pluck, perseverance, and all the better qualities which go to

make up true manhood, and only has been 'found' because rebel sympathizers at West Point, the fledglings of

caste, and the Secretary of War, do not intend to allow, if they can prevent it, a negro to graduate at West

"Any one conversant with educational matters who has examined the examinations for entrance, or the

curriculum of the naval and military academies, will not for a moment believe that their requirements, not as

high as those demanded for an ordinary New England high school, and by no means equal in thoroughness,

quantity, or quality to that demanded for entrance at Yale, Amherst, Dartmouth, or Brown, are too high or

abstruse to be compassed by negroes, some of whom have successfully stood all these, and are now pursuing

"No fairminded man believes that Smith, Napier and Williams, Conyers and McClellan, have had impartial

treatment. The government itself has been remiss in not throwing about them the protection of its authority.

Had these colored boys been students at St. Cyr, in Paris, or Woolwich, in England, under despotic France

and aristocratic England, they would have been treated with that courtesy and justice of which the average

white American has no idea. The South once ruled West Point, much to its detriment in loyalty, however

much, by reason of sending boys more than prepared. It dominated in scholarship. It seeks to recover the lost

ground, and rightly fears to meet on terms of equality in the camp the sons of fathers to whom it refused

quarter in the war and butchered in cold blood at Fort Pillow. We cannot expect the sons to forget the lessons

of the sires; but we have a right to demand from the general government the rooting out of all snobbery at

West Point, whether it is of that kind which sends poor white boys to Coventry, because they haven't a family

name or wealth, or whether it be that smallest, meanest, and shallowest of all aristocraciesthe one founded

"If the government is not able to root out these unrepublican seeds in these hotbeds of disloyalty and

snobbery, then let Congress shut up the useless and expensive appendages and educate its officers at the

colleges of the country, where they may learn lessons in true republican equality and nationality. The remedy

lies with Congress. A remonstrance at least should be heard from the colored members of Congress, who are

insulted whenever a colored boy is illtreated by the students or the officers of these institutions. So far from

being discouraged by defeats, the unjust treatment meted out to these young men should redouble the efforts

of others of their class to carry this new Bastile by storm. It should lead every colored Congressman to make

sure that he either sends a colored applicant or a white one who has not the seeds of snobbery and caste in his

soul. Smith, after four years of torture, comes home, is driven home, because, forsooth, he might attend the

ball next year! He is hounded out of the Academy because he would have to be assigned to a white regiment!

There are some negroes who feel that their rights in the land of their birth are superior to the prejudices of the

enemies of the Union, and who dare to speak and write in behalf of these rights, as their fathers dared to fight

"Bouchet, under civil rule, enters Yale College the best prepared student of one hundred and thirty freshmen,

and all through his course is treated like a gentleman, both by the faculty and the students, men who know

what justice means, and have some adequate idea of the true theory of education and gentlemanly conduct.

Two freed boys, from North Carolina and South Carolina, slaves during the war, prepare at the best Northern

academics, and enter, without remonstrance, Amherst and Dartmouth. What divinity, then, hedges West Point

and Annapolis? What but the old rebel spirit, which seeks again to control them for use in future rebellions as

it did in the past. The war developed some unwelcome truths with regard to this snobbish and disloyal spirit

of our national institutions, and the exploits of some volunteer officers showed that all manhood, bravery,

skill, and energy were not contained in West Point or Annapolis, or, if there, did not pertain solely to the

petty cliques that aim to give tone to those academies. It is not for any officer, the creature of the government

it is not for any student, the willing ward of that governmentto say who shall enter the national schools

and be the recipients of my bounty. It is the duty of every member of Congress to see that the government

sanctions no such spirit; and it becomes every loyal citizen who wishes to avoid the mistakes of the former

war to see to it that no class be excluded, and that every boy, once admitted, shall have the strictest justice

dealt out to him, a thing which, thus far, has not been done in the case of the colored cadets.

"The true remedy lies in the feelings and sympathies of the officers of these academies, in the ability and fair

investigations of the board of examiners; not from such gentlemen as at present seem to rule these

This article was taken from some South Carolina paper during the summer of '74. Its tone is in accordance

with the multitude of articles upon the same subject which occurred about the same time, and, like them all,

or most of them, is rather farfetched. It is too broad. Its denunciations cover too much ground. They verge

As to Conyers and McClellan at the Naval Academy I know nothing. Of Napier I know nothing. Of Smith I

prefer to say nothing. Of Williams I do express the belief that his treatment was impartial and just. He was

regularly and rightly found deficient and duly dismissed. The article seems to imply that he should not have

been "found" and dismissed simply because he was a negro. A very shallow reason indeed, and one "no

Of four years' life at the Academy, I spent the first with Smith, rooming with him. During the first half year

Williams was also in the corps with us. The two following years I was alone. The next and last year of my

course I spent with Whittaker, of South Carolina. I have thus had an opportunity to become acquainted with

Smith's conduct and that of the cadets toward him. Smith had trouble under my own eyes on more than one

occasion, and Whittaker* has already received blows in the face, but I have not had so much as an angry

word to utter. There is a reason for all this, and had "Niger Nigrorum" been better acquainted with it he had

*Johnson Chestnut Whittaker, of Camden, South Carolina, appointed to fill vacancy created by Smith's

dismissal, after several white candidates so appointed had failed, entered the Academy in September, 1876.

Shortly after entering he was struck in the face by a young man from Alabama for sneering at him, as he said,

while passing by him. Whittaker immediately reported the affair to the cadet officer of the day, by whose

efforts this belligerent Alabama gentleman was brought before a court martial, tried, found guilty, and

suspended for something over six months, thus being compelled to join the next class that entered the

I cannot venture more on the treatment of colored cadets generally without disregarding the fact that this is

purely a narrative of my own treatment and life at West Point. To go further into that subject would involve

much difference of opinion, hard feelings in certain quarters, and would cause a painful and needless

JULY 1, 1876! Only one year more; and yet how wearily the days come and go! How anxiously we watch

them, how eagerly we count them, as they glimmer in the distance, and forget them as they fade! What

joyous anticipation, what confident expectation, what hope animates each soul, each heart, each being of us!

What encouragement to study this longing, this impatience gives us, as if it hastened the coming finale! And

who felt it more than I? Who could feel it more than I? To me it was to be not only an end of study, of

discipline, of obedience to the regulations of the Academy, but even an end to isolation, to tacit persecution,

to melancholy, to suspense. It was to be the grand realization of my hopes, the utter, the inevitable defeat of

the minions of pride, prejudice, caste. Nor would such consummation of hopes affect me only, or those

around me. Nay, even I was but the point of "primitive disturbance," whence emanates as if from a focus,

from a new origin, prayer, friendly and inimical, to be focused again into realization on one side and

discomfiture on the other. My friends, my enemies, centre their hopes on me. I treat them, one with earnest

endeavor for realization, the other with supremest indifference. They are deviated with varying anxiety on

either side, and hence my joy, my gratitude, when I find, July 1, 1876, that I am a firstclassman.

A firstclassman! The beginning of realization, for had I not distanced all the colored cadets before me?

Indeed I had, and that with the greater prospect of ultimate success gave me double cause for rejoicing.

"The country begins to be agitated by the approaching graduation of young Flipper, the colored West Point

cadet from Atlanta. If he succeeds in getting into the aristocratic circles of the official army there will be a

Such was the nature of the many editorials which appeared about this time, summer of '76. The circumstance

was unusual, unexpected, for it had been predicted that only slaughter awaited me at that very stage, because

"Henry Flipper, of Atlanta, enjoys the distinction of being the only negro cadet that the government is

cramming with food and knowledge at West Point. He stands fortysixth in the third class, which includes

eightyfive cadets. A correspondent of the New York Times says that, while all concede Flipper's progress,

yet it is not believed that he will be allowed to graduate. No negro has passed out of the institution a graduate,

and it is believed that Flipper will be eventually slaughtered in one way or another. The rule among the

"Smith's dismissal leaves Henry Flipper the sole cadet of color at West Point. Flipper's pathway will not be

strewn with roses, and we shall be surprised if the Radicals do not compel him, within a year, to seek refuge

Isn't it strange how some people strive to drag everything into politics! A political reason is assigned to every

The many editors who have written on the subject of the colored cadets have, with few exceptions, followed

the more prejudiced and narrowminded critics who have attributed every thing, ill treatment, etc., to a

natural aversion for the negro, and to political reasons. They seem to think it impossible for one to discharge

a duty or to act with justice in any thing where a negro is concerned. Now this is unchristian as well as hasty

and undeserved. As I have said elsewhere in my narrative, aside from the authorities being de facto "officers

and gentlemen," and therefore morally bound to discharge faithfully every duty, they are under too great a

responsibility to permit them to act as some have asserted for them, to compel me "to seek refuge from a sea

of troubles," or to cause me to "be eventually slaughtered in one way or another." Who judges thus is not

disposed to judge fairly, but rather as suits some pet idea of his own, to keep up prejudice and all its curses.

It would be more Christian, and therefore more just, I apprehend, to consider both sides of the question, the

authorities and those under them. Other and better reasons would be found for some things which have

occurred, and reasons which would not be based on falsehood, and which would not tend to perpetuate the

conflict of right and prejudice. My own success will prove, I hope, not only that I had sufficient ability to

graduatewhich by the way none have questionedbut also that the authorities were not as some have

depicted them. This latter proof is important, first, because it will remove that fear which has deterred many

from seeking, and even from accepting appointments when offered, to which determent my isolation is

largely due; and second, because it will add another to the already long list of evidences of the integrity of our

To return to the last quotation. Immediately after the dismissal of Smith, indeed upon the very day of that

event, it was rumored that I intended to resign. I learned of the rumor from various sources, only one of

I was on guard that day, and while off duty an officer high in rank came to me and invited me to visit him at

his quarters next day. I did so, of course. His first words, after greeting, etc., were to question the truth of the

rumor, and before hearing my reply, to beg me to relinquish any such intention. He was kind enough to give

me much excellent advice, which I have followed most religiously. He assured me that prejudice, if it did

exist among my instructors, would not prevent them from treating me justly and impartially. I am proud to

testify now to the truth of his assurance. He further assured me that the officers of the Academy and of the

army, and especially the older ones, desired to have me graduate, and that they would do all within the

legitimate exercise of their authority to promote that end. This assurance has been made me by officers of

nearly every grade in the army, from the general down, and has ever been carried out by them whenever a fit

Surely this is not discouraging. Surely, too, it is not causing me "to seek refuge from a sea of troubles." We

need only go back to the article quoted from the Era, and given in Chapter III., to find an explanation for this

"We know that any young man, whether he be poor or black, or both, may enter any firstclass college in

America and find warm sympathetic friends, both among students and faculty, if he but prove himself to be

This is the keynote to the whole thing. One must not expect to do as one pleases, whether that be right or

wrong, or right according to some fanatical theory, and notwithstanding to be dealt with in a manner

warranted only by the strictest notion of right. We must force others to treat us as we wish, by giving them

such an example of meekness and of good conduct as will at least shame them into a like treatment of us.

"Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink; for in so doing thou shalt heap coals

To proceed: I am undoubtedly a firstclassman. None other has enjoyed that eminence. There are many

honors and responsibilities incident to that position or rank. Firstclassmen have authority at times over their

fellow cadets. How will it be when I come to have that authority? Will that same coldness and distance be

manifested as hitherto? These are important questions. I shall be brought necessarily into closer relations with

the cadets than before. How will they accept such relationship? The greatest proof of their personal

convictions will be manifested in their conduct here. If they evade my authority, or are stubborn or

disobedient, then are their convictions unfriendly indeed. But if kind, generous, willing to assist, to advise, to

obey, to respect myself as well as my office, then are they, as I ever believed them to be, gentlemen in all that

There are certain privileges accorded to firstclassmen which the other classes do not enjoy. The privates of

the first class do duty as officers of the guard, as company officers at company and battalion drills, at light

battery drills, and at other drills and ceremonies. In all these cases they have command of other cadets. These

cadets are subject to their orders and are liable to be reportedindeed such is requiredfor disobedience,

In this fact is a reasonthe only one, I think, which will in any manner account for the unpardonable reserve

of many of the cadets. To be subject to me, to my orders, was to them an unbearable torture. As they looked

forward to the time when I should exercise command over them, they could not help feeling the mortification

I must modify my statement. They may be prejudiced, and yet gentlemen, and if gentlemen they will not

We go into camp at West Point on the 17th of June, '76 for ten days. During all that time I enjoy all the

privileges of firstclassmen. Nothing is done to make it unpleasant or in any way to discourage or dishearten

me. We go to Philadelphia. We visit the Centennial, and there not only is the same kindness shown me, but I

find a number of cadets accost me whenever we meet, on the avenues and streets, on the grounds and in the

city. They ask questions, converse, answer questions. This occurred several times at the Southern Restaurant,

as well as elsewhere. After the parade on the 4th of July, every kindness was shown me. Those cadets near

me bought lemons, lemonade, etc, and shared with me, and when, on another occasion, I was the purchaser,

they freely partook of my "good cheer." What conclusion shall I draw from this? That they are unfriendly or

prejudiced? I fain would drop my pen and burn my manuscript if for even an instant I thought it possible.

And yet how shall I explain away this bit of braggadocio in the words italicized in this article from the

"The Color Line.One of the firstclassmen is Mr. Flipper, of Georgia, a young colored man. 'We don't

have any thing to do with him off duty,' said one of the cadets yesterday. 'We don't even speak to him. Of

course we have to eat with him, and drill with him, and go on guard with him, but that ends it. Outside of

duty, we don't know him.' 'Is he intelligent?' 'Yes; he stands high in his class, and I see no reason to doubt that

he will graduate next June. He has the negro features strongly developed, but in color he is rather light.'"

Easily enough, I think. In the first place the statement is too broad, if made by a cadet, which I very much

doubt. There are some of that "we" who do know me outside of duty. And if a cadet made the statement he

must have been a plebe, one unacquainted with my status in the corps, or one who, strenuously avoiding me

himself, supposed all others likewise did so. The cadet was not a firstclassman. There is a want of

information in his last answer which could not have been shown by a firstclassman.

Again, he says we "go on guard with him." Now that is untrue, as I understand it. The word "with" would

imply that we were on guard in the same capacity, viz., as privates. But firstclassmen do no guard duty in

that capacity, and hence not being himself a first classman he could not have been on guard"with" me. If he

After a stay of ten days in Philadelphia, we return to West Point, and still the same respect is shown me.

There is but little more of open recognition, if any, than before, and yet that I am respected is shown in many

Again, during my first year I many times overheard myself spoken of as "the nigger," "the moke," or "the

thing." Now openly, and when my presence was not known, I always hear myself mentioned as Mr. Flipper.

There are a few who use both forms of address as best suits their convenience or inclination at the time. But

why is it? Why not "nigger," "moke," or "thing" as formerly? Is there, can there be any other reason than that

they respect me more now than then? I am most unwilling to believe there could be.

We begin our regular routine of duties, etc. We have practical military engineering, ordnance, artillery,

practical astronomy in field and permanent observatories, telegraphy, and guard. We are detailed for these

duties. Not the least distinction is made. Not the slightest partiality is shown. Always the same regard for my

feelings, the same respect for me! See the case of gabion in the chapter on "Treatment."

At length, in my proper order, I am detailed for officer of the guard. True, the cadets expressed some

wonderment, but why? Simply, and reasonably enough too, because I was the first person of color that had

ever commanded a guard at the Military Academy of the United States. It is but a natural curiosity. And how

am I treated? Is my authority recognized? Indeed it is. My sergeant not only volunteered to make out the

guard report for me, but also offered any assistance I might want, aside from the discharge of his own duty as

sergeant of the guard. Again, a number of plebes were confined in the guard tents for grossness and

carelessness. I took their names, the times of their imprisonment, and obtained permission to release them. I

was thanked for my trouble. Again, a cadet's father wishes to see him. He is in arrest. I get permission for him

to visit his father at the guard tents. I go to his tent and tell him, and start back to my post of duty. He calls

me back and thanks me. Must I call that natural aversion for the negro, or even prejudice? Perhaps it is, but I

cannot so comprehend it. It may have that construction, but as long as the other is possible it is generous to

accept it. And again, I am ordered to report a cadet. I do it. I am stigmatized, of course, by some of the low

ones (see that case under "Treatment"); but my conduct, both in obeying the order and subsequently, is

approved by the better portion of the corps. The commandant said to me: "Your duty was a plain one, and

you discharged it properly. You were entirely right in reporting Mr.." What is the conduct of this cadet

himself afterwards? If different at all from what it was before, it is, in my presence at least, more cordial,

more friendly, more kind. Still there is no illtreatment, assuming of course that my own conduct is proper,

and not obtrusive or overbearing. And so in a multitude of ways this fact is proved. I have noticed many

things, little things perhaps they were, but still proofs, in the conduct of all the cadets which remove all doubt

from my mind. And yet with all my observation and careful study of those around me, I have many times

been unable to decide what was the feeling of the cadets toward me. Some have been one thing everywhere

and at all times, not unkind or ungenerous, nor even unwilling to hear me and be with me, or near me, or on

duty with me, or alone with me. Some again, while not avoiding me in the presence of others have

nevertheless manifested their uneasy dislike of my proximity. When alone with me they are kind, and all I

could wish them to be. Others have not only strenuously avoided me when with their companions, but have

even at times shown a low disposition, a desire to wound my feelings or to chill me with their coldness. But

alone, behold they know how to mimic gentlemen. The kind of treatment which I was to receive, and have

received at the hands of the cadets, has been a matter of little moment to me. True, it has at times been

galling, but its severest effects have been but temporary and have caused me no considerable trouble or

The officers, on the contrary, as officers and gentlemen, have in a manner been bound to accord me precisely

the Same privileges and advantages, etc., which they granted the other cadets, and they have ever done so.

I must confess my expectations in this last have been most positively unfulfilled, and I am glad of it. The

various reports, rumors, and gossips have thus been proved not only false but malicious, and that proof is of

considerable consequence. That they have not been unkind and disposed to illtreat me may be readily

inferred from the number of demerits I have received, and the nature of the offences for which those demerits

were given. They have never taken it upon themselves to watch me and report me for trifling offences with a

view of giving me a bad record in conduct, and thereby securing my dismissal, for one hundred demerits in

six months means dismissal. They have ever acted impartially, and, ignoring my color, have accorded me all

immunities and privileges enjoyed by other cadets, whether they were allowed by regulations or were mere

acts of personal favor. Of the majority of the cadets I can speak likewise, for they too have power to spy out

As to treatment in the sectionroom, where there were many opportunities to do me injustice by giving me

low marks for all recitations, good or bad, for instance, they have scrupulously maintained their honor, and

have treated me there with exact justice and impartiality. This is not a matter of opinion. I can give direct and

positive proof of its truthfulness. In the chapter on "Studies," in the record of marks that proof can be found,

my marks per recitation, and the average are good. By rank in section is meant the order of my mark that

is, whether best, next, the next, or lowest. Are these marks not good? In law, for example, once I received the

eighth out of nine marks, then the fifth, the first, second, third, first, first, and so on. Surely there was nothing

My marks in the section for each week, month, and the number of men in each section, afford the means of

comparison between the other members of the section and myself. And my marks are not only evidence of

the possession on my part of some "good faculties," but also of the honor of my instructors and

What manner of treatment the cadets chose to manifest toward me was then of course of no account. But

what is of importance, and great importance too, is how they will treat me in the army, when we have all

assumed the responsibilities of manhood, coupled with those of a public servant, an army officer. Of course

the question cannot now be answered. I feel nevertheless assured that the older officers at least will not stoop

to prejudice or caste, but will accord me proper treatment and respect. Men of responsibility are concerned,

and it is not presumable that they will disregard the requirements of their professions so far as to illtreat

even myself. There is none of the recklessness of the student in their actions, and they cannot but recognize

The year wears awaythe last year it is tooand I find myself near graduation, with every prospect of

success. And from the beginning to the close my life has been one not of trouble, persecution, or punishment,

but one of isolation only. True, to an unaccustomed nature such a life must have had many anxieties and trials

and displeasures, and, although it was so with me, I have nothing more than that of which to complain. And if

such a life has had its unpleasant features, it has also had its pleasant ones, of which not the least, I think, was

the constantly growing prospect of ultimate triumph. Again, those who have watched my course and have

seen in its success the falsity of certain reports, can not have been otherwise than overjoyed at it, at the,

though tardy, vindication of truth. I refer especially to certain erroneous ideas which are or were extant

concerning the treatment of colored cadets, in which it is claimed that color decides their fate. (See chapter on

I hope my success has proved that not color of face, but color of character alone can decide such a question. It

is character and nothing else that will merit a harsh treatment from gentlemen, and of course it must be a bad

character. If a man is a man, un homme comme il faut, he need fear no illtreatment from others of like

calibre. Gentlemen avoid persons not gentlemen. Resentment is not a characteristic of gentlemen. A

gentlemanly nature must shrink from it. There may be in it a certain amount of what is vulgarly termed pluck,

and perhaps courage. But what of that? Everybody more or less admires pluck. Everybody worships courage,

if it be of a high order, but who allows that pluck or even courage is an excuse for passion or its

consequences? The whites may admire pluck in the negro, as in other races, but they will never admit

unwarrantable obtrusiveness, or rudeness, or grossness, or any other ungentlemanly trait, and no more in the

negro than in others. This is quite just. A negro would not allow it even in another.

I did not intend to discuss social equality here, but as it is not entirely foreign to my subject I may be

Social equality, as I comprehend it, must be the natural, and perhaps gradual, outgrowth of a similarity of

instincts and qualities in those between whom it exists. That is to say, there can be no social equality between

persons who have nothing in common. A civilized being would not accept a savage as his equal, his socius ,

his friend. It would be repugnant to nature. A savage is a man, the image of his Maker as much so as any

being. He has all the same rights of equality which any other has, but they are political rights only. He who

buried his one talent to preserve it was not deemed worthy to associate with him who increased his five to

ten. So also in our particular case. There are different orders or classes of men in every civilized community.

The classes are politically equal, equal in that they are free men and citizens and have all the rights belonging

to such station. Among the several classes there can be no social equality, for they have nothing socially in

Now in these recent years there has been a great clamor for rights. The clamor has reached West Point, and, if

no bad results have come from it materially, West Point has nevertheless received a bad reputation, and I

A right must depend on the capacity and end or aim of the man. This capacity and end may, and ought to be,

moral, and not political only. Equal capacities and a like end must give equal rights, and unequal capacities

and unlike ends unequal rights, morally, of course, for the political end of all men is the same. And therefore,

since a proper society is a moral institution where a certain uniformity of views, aims, purposes, properties,

etc., is the object, there must be also a uniformity or equality of rights, for otherwise there would be no

This, I apprehend, is precisely the state of affairs in our own country. Among those who, claiming social

equality, claim it as a right, there exists the greatest possible diversity of creeds, instincts, and of moral and

mental conditions, in which they are widely different from those with whom they claim this equality. They

can therefore have no rights socially in common; or, in other words, the social equality they claim is not a

right, and ought not to and cannot exist under present circumstances, and any law that overreaches the moral

But it is color, they say, color only, which determines how the negro must be treated. Color is his misfortune,

and his treatment must be his misfortune also. Mistaken idea! and one of which we should speedily rid

ourselves. It may be color in some cases, but in the great majority of instances it is mental and moral

condition. Little or no education, little moral refinement, and all their repulsive consequences will never be

accepted as equals of education, intellectual or moral. Color is absolutely nothing in the consideration of the

question, unless we mean by it not color of skin, but color of character, and I fancy we can find considerable

It has been said that my success at West Point would be a grand victory in the way of equal rights, meaning, I

apprehend, social rights, social equality, inasmuch as all have, under existing laws, equal political rights.

Doubtless there is much truth in the idea. If, however, we consider the two races generally, we shall see there

is no such right, no such social right, for the very basis of such a right, viz., a similarity of tastes, instincts,

and of mental and moral conditions, is wanting. The mental similarity especially is wanting, and as that

To illustrate by myself, without any pretensions to selfishness. I have this right to social equality, for I and

those to whom I claim to be equal are similarly educated. We have much in common, and this fact alone

"But the young gentlemen who boast of holding only official intercourse with their comrade, should

remember that no one of them stands before the country in any different light from him. . . . Amalgamated by

the uniform course of studies and the similarity of discipline, the separating fragments at the end of the

student life carry similar qualities into the life before them, and step with almost remarkable social equality

into the world where they must find their level."Philadelphia North American, July 7th, 1876.

If we apply this to the people as a unit, the similarity no longer exists. The right, therefore, also ceases to

The step claimed to have been made by my success is one due to education, and not to my position or

education at West Point, rather than at some other place; so that it follows if there be education, if the mental

and moral condition of the claimants to that right be a proper one, there will necessarily be social equality,

"Remember, dear friend," says a correspondent, "that you carry an unusual responsibility. The nation is

interested in what you do. If you win your diploma, your enemies lose and your friends gain one very

important point in the great argument for equal rights. When you shall have demonstrated that you have equal

powers, then equal rights will come in due time. The work which you have chosen, and from which you

cannot now flinch without dishonor, proves far more important than either you or me (Faculty at A. U.) at

first conceived. Like all great things its achievement will involve much of trial and hardship."

Alas! how true! What a trial it is to be socially ostracized, to live in the very midst of life and yet be lonely, to

pass day after day without saying perhaps a single word other than those used in the sectionroom during a

recitation. How hard it is to live month after month without even speaking to woman, without feeling or

Oh! 'tis hard, this lonely living, to be In the midst of life so solitary, To sit all the long, long day through and

gaze In the dimness of gloom, all but amazed At the emptiness of life, and wonder What keeps sorrow and

death asunder. 'Tis the forced seclusion most galls the mind, And sours all other joy which it may find. 'Tis

the sneer, tho' half hid, is bitter still, And wakes dormant anger to passion's will. But oh! 'tis harder yet to bear

them all Unangered and unheedful of the thrall, To list the jeer, the snarl, and epithet All too base for knaves,

and e'en still forget Such words were spoken, too manly to let Such baseness move a nobler intellect. But not

the words nor even the dreader disdain Move me to anger or resenting pain. 'Tis the thought, the thought most

disturbs my mind, That I'm ostracized for no fault of mine, 'Tis that everrecurring thought awakes Mine

Such a life was mine, not indeed for four years, but for the earlier part of my stay at the Academy.

But to return to our subject. There are two questions involved in my case. One of them is, Can a negro

graduate at West Point, or will one ever graduate there? And the second, If one never graduate there, will it

My own success answers most conclusively the first question, and changes the nature of the other. Was it,

then, color or actual deficiency that caused the dismissal of all former colored cadets? I shall not venture to

reply more than to say my opinion is deducible from what I have said elsewhere in my narrative.

However, my correspondent agrees with me that color is of no consequence in considering the question of

equality socially. My friends, he says, gain an important point in the argument for equal rights. It will be in

this wise, viz., that want of education, want of the proof of equality of intellect, is the obstacle, and not color.

And the only way to get this proof is to get education, and not by "war of races." Equal rights must be a

consequence of this proof, and not something existing before it. Equal rights will come in due time, civil

rights bill, war of races, or any thing of that kind to the contrary notwithstanding.

And moreover, I don't want equal rights, but identical rights. The whites and blacks may have equal rights,

and yet be entirely independent, or estranged from each other. The two races cannot live in the same country,

under the same laws as they now do, and yet be absolutely independent of each other. There must, there

should, and there will be a mutual dependence, and any thing that tends to create independence, while it is

thus so manifestly impossible, can engender strife alone between them. On the other hand, whatever brings

them into closer relationship, whatever increases their knowledge and appreciation of fellowship and its

positive importance, must necessarily tend to remove all prejudices, and all illfeelings, and bring the two

races, and indeed the world, nearer that degree of perfection to which all things show us it is approaching.

"It is for you, Henry, more than any one I know of, to demonstrate to the world around us, in this part of it at

least (the North), the equality of intellect in the races. You win by your uprightness and intelligence, and it

Thus a lady correspondent (Miss M. E. H., Durham Centre, Ct.) encourages, thus she keeps up the desire to

graduate, to demonstrate to the world "the equality of intellect in the races," that not color but the want of this

proof in this semibarbarous people is the obstacle to their being recognized as social equals. A tremendous

task! Not so much to prove such an equalityfor that had already been abundantly demonstratedbut rather

to show the absurdity and impracticability of prejudice on account of color; or, in other words, that there is no

As to how far and how well I have discharged that duty, my readers, and all others who may be in any

manner interested in me, must judge from my narrative and my career at West Point. Assuring all that my

endeavor has been to act as most becomes a gentleman, and with Christian forbearance to disregard all

unfriendliness or prejudice, I leave this subject, this general r�sum� of my treatment at the hands of the

cadets, and my own conduct, with the desire that it be criticised impartially if deemed worthy of criticism at

"Captain H.Only oneHenry O. Flipper, of Georgia. He is a wellbuilt lad, a mulatto, and is bright,

"Captain H.No, sir; I am told that he is more popular. I have heard of no doubt but that he will get

THE privileges allowed cadets during an encampment are different generally for the different classes. These

privileges are commonly designated by the rank of the class, such, for instance, as "firstclass privileges,"

"thirdclass privileges," etc. Privileges which are common receive their designation from some characteristic

in their nature or purpose. Thus we have "Saturday afternoon privileges," and "Old Guard privileges."

The cadets are encamped and are not supposed to leave their camp save by permission. This permission is

granted by existing orders, or if for any reason it be temporarily denied it can be obtained by "permit" for

some specified time. Such permission or privilege obtained by "permit" for a particular class is known as

"class privileges," and can be enjoyed only by the class that submits and gets the permit.

"Firstclass privileges" permit all members of the first class to leave camp at any time between troop and

retreat, except when on duty, and to take advantage of the usual "Saturday afternoon privileges," which are

allowed all classes and all cadets. These privileges, however, cannot be enjoyed on the Sabbath by any except

Cadet A B C has permission to walk on public lands between the hours of 8 A.M. and 4 P.M.

By "Saturday afternoon privileges" is meant the right or privilege to walk on all public lands within cadet

limits on Saturday afternoon. This includes also the privilege of visiting the ruins of old Fort Putnam, which

The second class being absent on furlough during the encampment, of course have no privileges. Should any

member of the class be present during the encampment, he enjoys "firstclass privileges," unless they are

"Thirdclass privileges" do not differ from "first class privileges," except in that they cannot be taken

"Old Guard privileges" are certain privileges by which all members of the "Old Guard" are exempted from all

duty on the day they march off guard until one o'clock, and are permitted to enjoy privileges similar to those

of Saturday afternoon during the same time. They also have the privilege of bathing at that time.

The baths are designated as "first," "second," and "third." The officers and noncommissioned officers have

Cadets who march off guard on Sunday are restricted in the enjoyment of their privileges to exemption from

duty on the Sabbath only. They may take advantage of the other privileges on the following Monday during

the usual time, but are not excused from any duty. All members of the "Old Guard," to whatever class they

Besides these there are other privileges which are enjoyed by comparatively few. Such are "Hop managers'

privileges." "Hop managers" are persons elected by their classmates from the first and third classes for the

management of the hops of the summer. To enable them to discharge the duties of their office, they are

permitted to leave camp, whenever necessary, by reporting their departure and return.

Under pleasures, or rather sources of pleasure, may be enumerated hops, Germans, band practice, and those

incident to other privileges, such as "spooneying," or "spooning." The hops are the chief source of enjoyment,

and take place on Mondays and Fridays, sometimes also on Wednesdays, at the discretion of the

Germans are usually given on Saturday afternoons, and a special permit is necessary for every one. These

permits are usually granted, unless there be some duty or other cause to prevent.

Two evenings of every week are devoted to band practice, Tuesday evening for practice in camp, and

Thursday evening for practice in front of the Superintendent's quarters. Of course these entertainments, if I

may so term them, have the effect of bringing together the young ladies and cadets usually denied the

privilege of leaving camp during the evening. It is quite reasonable to assume that they enjoy themselves. On

these evenings "class privileges" permit the first and thirdclassmen to be absent from camp till the practice

is over. Sometimes a special permit is necessary. It might be well to say here, ere I forget it, that Wednesday

evening is devoted to prayer, prayermeeting being held in the Dialectic Hall. All cadets are allowed to

attend by reporting their departure and return. The meeting is under the sole management of the cadets,

although they are by no means the sole participants. Other privileges, more or less limited, such as the

holding of class meetings for whatever purpose, must be obtained by special permit in each case.

We have not much longer here to stay, Only a month or two, Then we'll bid farewell to cadet gray, And don

the army blue. Armyblue, army blue, we'll don the army blue, We'll bid farewell to cadet gray and don the

To the ladies who come up in June, We'll bid a fond adieu, And hoping they will be married soon, We'll don

the army blue. Army blue, army blue, we'll don the army blue, We'll bid farewell to cadet gray and don the

Addresses to the Graduating Class of the U. S. Military Academy, West Point, N. Y., June 14th, 1877. By

GEORGE W. MCCRARY, Secretary of War, MAJORGENERAL JOHN M. SCHOFIELD, Superintendent

YOUNG GENTLEMEN OF THE GRADUATING CLASS: The courtesy of your admirable Superintendent

forbids a possible breach in an ancient custom, and lays upon me, as the representative, for the moment, of

the Board of Visitors, the pleasant duty of tendering to you their congratulations on the close of your

The people of this country have a heavy stake in the prosperity of this institution. They recognize it as the

very fountain of their security in war, and the origin of some of their best methods of education. And upon

education in colleges and common schools the pillars of the State assuredly rest.

To participants and to bystanders, this ceremony of graduation is as interesting and as exciting as if this were

the first, instead of the seventyfifth occurrence. Every such occasion is clothed with the splendor of

perpetual youth. The secret of your future success lies in the impossibility of your entering into the

experience of your predecessors. Every man's life begins with the rising sun. The world would soon become a

frozen waste but for the inextinguishable ardor of youth, which believes success still to be possible where

That courage which avoids rashness by the restraints of knowledge, and dishonor by the fear of God, is the

The great armies of modern times which have won immortal victories have been composed of young men

To bystanders, for the same and other reasons, the occasion is profoundly interesting.

For educated men who are true to honor and to righteousness, the world anxiously waits; but an educated man

who is false, the world has good reason to dread. The best thing that can be said of this Academy, with its

long roll of heroes in war and in peace, is, that every year the conviction increases among the people of the

United States, that its graduates are men who will maintain, at all hazards, the simple virtues of a robust

I welcome you, therefore, to the hardships and perils of a soldier's life in a time of peace. The noise and the

necessities of war drive men in upon themselves and keep their faculties awake and alert; but the seductive

influence of peace, when a soldier must spend his time in preparation for the duties of his profession rather

than in their practice, this is indeed a peril to which the horrors of warfare are subordinate. It is so much

easier for men to fight other men than themselves. So much easier to help govern other men than to wholly

But, young gentlemen, as we have listened to your examination, shared in your festivities, and enjoyed

personal acquaintance with you, we strongly hope for you every thing lovely, honorable, and of good report.

You who have chosen the sword, may be helped in some trying hour of your coming lives by recalling the

lesson which is concealed in a legend of English history. It is the old lesson of the advantage of knowledge

over its more showy counterfeits, and guards against one of the perils of our American society.

A man losing his way on a hillside, strayed into a chamber full of enchanted knights, each lying motionless,

in complete armor, with his horse standing motionless beside him. On a rock near the entrance lay a sword

and a horn, and the intruder was told that he must choose between these, if he would lead the army. He chose

the horn, and blew a loud blast; whereupon the knights and their horses vanished in a whirlwind, and their

visitor was blown back into common air, these words sounding after him upon the wind:

"Cursed be the coward, that ever he was born, Who did not draw the sword before he blew the horn."

Young gentlemen, the Board of Visitors can have no better wish for our common country than that your

To me has been assigned the pleasant duty of welcoming into the service as commissioned officers, the

Although much time has elapsed since my graduation here, and by contact with the rugged cares of life some

of the sharp edges of recollection may have become. dulled, yet I have not lived long enough to have

forgotten the joy of that bright period. You only experience it today as I have felt it before you.

I have had some experience of life since, and it might be worth something to you were I to relate it. But youth

is selfconfident and impatient, and you may at present doubt the wisdom of listening to sermons which you

You each feel that you have the world in a sling, and that it would be wearisome to listen to the croakings of

the past, and especially from those into whose shoes you soon expect to step. That is the rule of life. The

child growing into manhood, believes that its judgment is better than the knowledge of its parents; and yet if

that experience was duly considered, and its unselfish purposes believed in, many shoals would be avoided,

otherwise certain to be met with in the journey of life, by the inexperienced but confident navigator.

You should not forget that there were as bright intellects, and men who possessed equal elements of greatness

in past generations as in this, and that deeds have been performed in earlier times which, at best, the men of

the present day can only hope to rival. Why then should we not profit by the experiences of the past; and as

our lives are shot at best, instead of following the ruts of our predecessors, start on the road of life where they

left off, and not continue to repeat their failures? I cannot say why, unless it proceeds from the natural

buoyancy of youth, selfconfidence in its ability to overcome all obstacles, and to carve out futures more

dazzling than any successes of the past. In this there is a problem for you to solve. Yet I may do well by

acknowledging to you, today, that after an active military life of no mean duration, soldiers of my length of

service feel convinced that they might have learned wisdom by listening to the experience of those who

preceded them. Had they been prepared to assume that experience as a fact at starting, and made departures

from it, instead of disregarding it, in the idea that there was nothing worthy of note to be learned from a study

of the past, it would be safe to assume that they would have made greater advances in their day.

Were I to give you my views in extenso, applicable to the occasion, I could only repeat what has been well

and vigorously said here by distinguished persons in the past, in your hearing, on occasions of the graduation

You are impatient, doubtless, as I was in your time, and if you have done as my class did before you, you

have already thrown your books away, and only await the moment of the conclusion of these ceremonies to

don the garb of the officer or the civilian. The shell of the cadet is too contracted to contain your impatient

spirits. Nevertheless, if you will listen but for a few minutes to the relation of an old soldier, I will repeat of

There is but one comrade of my class remaining in active service today, and I think I might as truly have

In the next thirty years, those of you who live will see that your numbers have become sensibly reduced, if

Some will have studied, have kept up with the times, been ready for service at the hour of their country's call,

been prepared to accomplish the purposes for which their education was given to them.

Some will have sought the active life of the frontiers, and been also ready to perform their part in the hour of

It may have depended much upon opportunity among those who were well equipped for the occasion, who

gained the greatest distinction; but it cannot for a moment be doubted that the roll of honor in the future of

It will be a struggle of life to determine who among you will keep their standing in the contest for future

You who have been the better students here, and possessed the greater natural qualities, have a start in the

race; but industry, study, perseverance, and other qualities will continue to be important factors in the future,

Through continuous mental, moral, and physical development, with progress in the direction of your

profession and devotion to duty, lies the road to military glory; and it may readily come to pass that "the race

will not be to the swift, nor the battle to the strong," as you regard your classmates today.

A rare combination of natural qualities causes men to develop greatness. Education and training make them

greater; nevertheless, men with fewer natural qualities often succeed, with education and training, when those

more richly endowed fail to reach the higher places, and you have doubtless witnessed that in your

A man in a great place in modern times is not respectable without education. That man must be a God to

command modern armies successfully without it; yet war is a great school; men learn quickly by experience,

and in long wars there will be found men of natural abilities who will appear at the front. It will be found,

however, in the long run, that the man who has prepared himself to make the best use of his natural talents

will win in the race, if he has the opportunity, while others of equal or greater natural parts may fail from lack

of that mental and moral training necessary to win the respect of those they command.

Towards the close of our civil war, men came to the front rank who entered the service as privates. They were

men of strong natural qualities. How far the best of them would have proceeded had the war continued,

cannot be told; but it may be safely assumed that if they possessed the moral qualities and the education

necessary to command the respect of the armies with which they were associated, they would have won the

Some of them had the moral qualities, some the education; and I have known of those men who thus came

forward, some who would certainly have reached the highest places in a long race, had they had the training

War gives numerous opportunities for distinction, and especially to those who in peace have demonstrated

that they would be available in war; and soldiers can win distinction in both peace and war if they will but

"There is a tide in the affairs of men which, taken at the flood, leads on to victory."

Great responsibilities in time of danger are not given to the ignorant, the slothful, or to those who have

impaired their powers of mind or body by the indulgences of life. In times of danger favorites are discarded.

When work is to be done, deeds to be performed, men of action have their opportunities and fail not to seize

them. It is the interest of commanders that such men should be selected for service, when success or failure

may follow, according to the wisdom of the selection, as the instrument may besharp or dull, good or bad.

I would say to you, lead active, temperate, studious lives, develop your physical qualities as well as mental.

Regard the education acquired here as but rudimentary; pursue your studies in the line of your profession and

as well in such other branches of science or language as may best accord with your inclinations. It will make

you greater in your profession and cause you to be independent of it. The latter is but prudent in these

Study to lead honorable, useful, and respected lives. Even if no opportunity presents for martial glory you

Avoid the rocks of dissipation, of gambling, of debt; lead those manly lives which will always find you in

health in mind and body, free from entanglements of whatever kind, and you may be assured you will find

your opportunities for great services, when otherwise you would have been overlooked or passed by. Such

Knowledge derived from books may bring great distinction outside of the field of war, as an expert in the

lessons of the military profession and in others, but the lessons of hard service are salutary and necessary to

give the soldier a practical understanding of the world and its ways as he will encounter them in war. I would

advise you to go when young to the plainsto the wilderness seek active service there, put off the days of

Take with you to the frontier your dog, your rod and gun; the pursuit of a life in the open air with such

adjuncts will go far to give you health and the vigor to meet the demands to be made upon you in trying

campaigns, and to enable you to establish the physical condition necessary to maintain a life of vigor such as

a soldier requires. You will by these means, too, avoid many of the temptations incident to an idle life all

calculated to win you from your usefulness in the future, and by no means leave your books behind you.

When I graduated, General Scott, thinking possibly to do me a service, asked me to what regiment I desired

to be assigned; I replied, to the regiment stationed at the most western post in the United States. I was sent to

the Indian Territory of today. We had not then acquired California or New Mexico, and our western

I know that that early frontier service and the opportunities for healthy and vigorous outdoor exercise were

of great advantage to me in many ways, and would have been more so had I followed the advice in reference

There are many "extreme western" posts today. It is difficult to say which is the most western in the sense of

that day, when the Indian frontiers did not as now, lie in the circumference of an inner circle; but the

Yellowstone will serve your purpose well. And if any of you wish to seek that service your taste will not be

difficult to gratify, for the hardest lessons will be certain to be avoided by many. There will be those who in

the days of youth will seek the softer places. They may have their appropriate duties there and do their parts

well, but it may be considered a safe maxim that the indulgence of the present will have to be paid for in the

future A man may not acquire greatness by pursuing religiously the course I have indicated as the best, but it

will be safe to assume that when the roll of honor of your class is called after a length of service equal to

mine, but few, if any of your number, will have done their part well in public estimation save of those who

GENTLEMEN OF THE GRADUATING CLASS: Although not a part of the programme arranged for these

exercises, I cannot refuse to say a word by way of greeting, and I would make it as hearty and earnest as

possible to you, gentlemen, one and all, upon this occasion, so interesting to you as well is to the entire army,

There are others here who will speak to you as soldiers, to whom you will listen, and from whom you will

receive all counsel and admonition as coming from men who have distinguished themselves in the command

of the greatest armies the world has ever seen, and by the achievement of some of the grandest victories

I would speak to you as a citizen; and as such, I desire to assure you that you are today the centre of a

general interest pervading every part of our entire country. It is not the army alone that is interested in the

graduating class of 1877. West Point Military Academy, more than any other institution in the landfar

It is contrary to the policy of this country to keep in time of peace a large standing army We have adopted

what I think is a wiser and better policy that of educating a large number of young men in the science of

arms, so that they may be ready when the time of danger comes. You will go forth from this occasion with

your commissions as Second Lieutenants in the army; but I see, and I know that the country sees, that if war

should come, and large armies should be organized and marshalled, we have here seventysix young

gentlemen, any one of whom can command not only a company, but a brigade; and I think I may say a

The experience of the past teaches that I do not exaggerate when I say this. At all events, such is the theory

upon which our government proceeds, and it is expected that every man who is educated in this institution,

whether he remains in the ranks of the army or not, wherever he may be found and called upon, shall come

It is a happy coincidence that one hundred years ago today, on the 14th of June, 1777, the Continental

Congress passed the act which fixed our national emblem as the stars and stripes. It is a happy coincidence

that you graduate upon the anniversary of the passage of that actthe centennial birthday of the stars and

stripes. I do not know that it will add any thing to your love of the flag and of your country. I doubt whether

any thing would add to that; but I refer to this coincidence with great pleasure.

Gentlemen of the Graduating Class: I am not qualified to instruct you in your duties as soldiers, but these is

one thing I may say to you, because it ought to be said to every graduating class, and to all young men about

to enter upon the active duties of life, and that is, that the profession does not ennoble the man, but the man

Character, young men, is every thing; without it, your education is nothing; without it, your country will be

disappointed in you. Go forth into life, then, firmly resolved to be true, not only to the flag of your country,

not only to the institutions of the land, not only to the Union which our fathers established, and which the

blood of our countrymen has cemented, but to be true to yourselves and the principles of honor, of rectitude,

of temperance, of virtue, which have always characterized the great and successful soldier, and must always

ADDRESS BY MAJORGENERAL JOHN M. SCHOFIELD, Superintendent U. S. Military Academy.

GENTLEMEN OF THE GRADUATING CLASS: The agreeable duty now devolves upon me of delivering

to you the diplomas which the Academic Board have awarded you as Graduates of the Military Academy.

These diplomas you have fairly won by your ability, your industry, and your obedience to discipline. You

receive them, not as favors from any body, but as the just and lawful reward of honest and persistent effort.

You have merited, and are about to receive, the highest honors attainable by young men in our country. You

have won these honors by hard work and patient endurance, and you are thus prepared to prize them highly.

As you learn, with advancing years, to more fully appreciate the value in life of the habits you have acquired

of selfreliance, longsustained effort, obedience to discipline, and respect for lawful authority, a value

greater even than that of the scientific knowledge you have gained, you will more and more highly prize the

You are now prepared to enter upon an honorable career in the great arena of the world. The West Point

Diploma has ever been a passport to public respect, and to the confidence of government. But such respect

and confidence imply corresponding responsibilities. The honor of West Point and that of the army are now

in your keeping; and your country is entitled to the best services, intellectual, moral, and physical, which it

That you may render such services, do not fail to pursue your scientific studies, that you may know the laws

of nature, and make her forces subservient to the public welfare. Study carefully the history, institutions, and

laws of your country, that you may be able to see and to defend what is lawful and right in every emergency.

Study not only the details of your profession, but the highest principles of the art of war, You may one day be

called to the highest responsibility. And, above all, be governed in all things by those great moral principles

which have been the guide of great and good men in all ages and in all countries. Without such guide the

One of your number, under temptation which has sometimes proved too great for even much older soldiers,

committed A breach of discipline for which he was suspended. The Honorable Secretary of War has been

kindly pleased to remit the penalty, so that your classmate may take his place among you according to his

You have to regret the absence of one of your number, who has been prevented by extreme illness from

pursuing the studies of the last year. But I am glad to say that Mr. Barnett has so far recovered that he will be

Another member of the class has been called away by the death of his father, but he had passed his

With the single exception, then, above mentioned, I have the satisfaction of informing you that you graduate

We take leave of you, gentlemen, not only with hope, but with full confidence that you will acquit yourselves

well in the honorable career now before you. We give you our parental blessing, with fervent wishes for your

Loud applause greeted the close of the general's speech, and the graduates were then called up one by one and

Their diplomas delivered to them. The first to step forward was Mr. William M. Black, of Lancaster, Penn.,

whose career at the Academy has been remarkable. He has stood at the head of his class for the whole four

years, actually distancing all competitors. He is a young man of signal ability, won his appointment in a

competitive examination, and has borne himself with singular modesty and good sense. During the past year

he has occupied the position of Adjutant of the Corps of Cadetsthe highest post which can be held. General

Sherman shook hands with the father of the young cadeta grandlooking old gentleman, and very proud of

his son, as he has a right to beand warmly congratulated him on the brilliant career which was before the

young man. The next on the list was Mr. Walter F. Fisk. When Mr. Flipper, the colored cadet, stepped

forward, and received the reward of four years of as hard work and unflinching courage and perseverance as

any young man could be called upon to go through, the crowd of spectators gave him a round of hearty

applause. He deserves it. Any one who knows how quietly and bravely this young manthe first of his

despised race to graduate at West Pointhas borne the difficulties of his position; how for four years he has

had to stand apart from his classmates as one with them but not of them; and to all the severe work of

academic official life has had added the yet more severe mental strain which bearing up against a cruel social

ostracism puts on any man; and knowing that he has done this without getting soured, or losing courage for a

dayany one, I say, who knows all this would be inclined to say that the young man deserved to be well

taken care of by the government he is bound to serve. Everybody here who has watched his course speaks in

terms of admiration of the unflinching courage he has shown. No cadet will go away with heartier wishes for

When the last of the diplomas had been given, the line reformed, the band struck up a lively tune, the cadets

marched to the front of the barracks, and there Cadet Black, the Adjutant, read the orders of the day, they

being the standing of the students in their various classes, the list of new officers, etc. This occupied some

time, and at its conclusion Colonel Neil, Commandant of Cadets, spoke a few kind words to the First Class,

At the close of the addresses the Superintendent of the Academy delivered the diplomas to the following

Ammon A. Augur, William H. Baldwin, Thomas H. Barry, George W. Baxter, John Baxter, Jr., John

Bigelow, Jr., William M. Black, Francis P. Blair, Augustus P. Blocksom, Charles A. Bradley, John J.

Brereton, Oscar J. Brown, William C. Brown, Ben. I. Butler, George N. Chase, Edward Chynoweth, Wallis

O. Clark, Charles J. Crane, Heber M. Creel, Matthias W. Day, Millard F. Eggleston, Robert T. Emmet,

Calvin Esterly, Walter L. Fisk, Henry O. Flipper, Fred. W. Foster, Daniel A. Frederick, F. Halverson French,

Jacob G. Galbraith, William W. Galbraith, Charles B. Gatewood, Edwin F. Glenn, Henry J. Goldman,

William B. Gordon, John F. Guilfoyle, John J. Haden, Harry T. Hammond, John F. C. Hegewald, Curtis B.

Hoppin, George K. Hunter, James B. Jackson, Henry Kirby, Samuel H. Loder, James A. Maney, James D.

Mann, Frederick Marsh, Medad C. Martin, Solon F. Massey, Ariosto McCrimmon, David N. McDonald,

John McMartin, Stephen C. Mills, Cunliffe H. Murray, James V. S. Paddock, Theophilus Parker, Alexander

M. Patch, Francis J. Patten, Thomas C. Patterson, John H. Philbrick, Edward H. Plummer, David Price, Jr.,

Robert D. Read, Jr., Solomon W. Roessler, Robert E. Safford, James C. Shofner, Adam Slaker, Howard A.

Springett, Robert R. Stevens, Monroe P. Thorington, Albert Todd, Samuel P. Wayman, John V. White,

OF all privileges or sources of pleasure which tend to remove the monotony of military life, there are none to

which the stripling soldier looks forward with more delight than furlough. Indeed it is hard to say which is the

stronger emotion that we experience when we first receive information of our appointment to a cadetship, or

that which comes upon us when we are apprised that a furlough has been granted us. Possibly the latter is the

stronger feeling. It is so with some, with those, at least, who received the former announcement with

indifference, as many do, accepting it solely to please a mother, or father, or other friend or relative. With

whatever feeling, or for whatever reason the appointment may have been accepted, it is certain that all are

equally anxious to take advantage of their furlough when the time comes. This is made evident in a multitude

A furlough is granted to those only who have been present at two annual examinations at least, and by and

Immediately after January next preceding their second annual examination, the furloughmen, as they are

called, have class meetings, or rather furlough meetings, to celebrate the "good time coming." They hold

them almost weekly, and they are devoted to music, jesting, storytelling, and to general jollification. It can

be well imagined with what joy a cadet looks forward to his furlough. It is the only interruption in the

monotony of his Academy life, and it is to him for that very reason extremely important. During all this time,

and even long before January, the furloughmen are accustomed to record the state of affairs respecting their

furlough by covering every available substance that will bear a pencil or chalk mark with numerous

inscriptions, giving the observer some such information as this: "100 days to furlough," "75 days to

furlough," "only two months before furlough," and thus even to the day before they actually leave.

The crowning moment of all is the moment when the order granting furloughs is published.

I am sure my happiest moment at West Point, save when I grasped my "sheepskin" for the first time, was

when I heard my name read in the list. It was a most joyous announcement. To get away from West Point, to

get out among friends who were not ashamed nor afraid to be friends, could not be other than gratifying. It

was almost like beginning a new life, a new career, and as I looked back from the deck of the little ferryboat

My furlough was something more than an interruption of my ordinary mode of life for the two years

previous. It was a complete change from a life of isolation to one precisely opposite. And of course I enjoyed

The granting of furloughs is entirely discretionary with the Superintendent. It may be denied altogether, but

It is customary to detain for one, two, three, or even more days those who have demerits exceeding a given

number for a given time. The length of their leave is therefore shortened by just so many days.

There are a number of customs observed by the cadets which I shall describe here.

To disregard these customs is to showat least it is so construeda want of pride. To say that this or that

"is customary," is quite sufficient to warrant its conception and execution. Among these customs the

To begin with the fourth class. Immediately after their first semiannual examination the class adopts a class

crest or motto, which appears on all their stationery, and often on many other things. To have class stationary

is a custom that is never overlooked. Each class chooses its own design, which usually bears the year in

In the early spring, the first, second, and third classes elect hop managers, each class choosing a given

number. This is preparatory to the hop given by the second to the graduating class as a farewell token. This

Next to these are customs peculiar to the first class. They are never infringed upon by other classes, nor

First, prior to graduation it is an invariable custom of the graduating class to adopt and procure, each of them,

a class ring. This usually bears the year of graduation, the letters U. S. M. A., or some other military

This ring is the signet that binds the class to their Alma Mater, and to each other. It is to be in after years the

souvenir that is to recall one's cadet life, and indeed every thing connected with a happy and yet dreary part

The class album also is intended for the same purpose. It contains the "smiling shadows" of classmates,

comrades, and scenes perhaps never more to be visited or seen after parting at graduation. Oh! what a feeling

of sadness, of weariness of life even, must come upon him who in after years opens his album upon those

handsome young faces, and there silently compares their then lives with what succeeding years have

revealed! Who does not, would not grieve to recall the sad tidings that have come anon and filled one's heart

and being with portentous gloom? This, perhaps a chum, an especial favorite, or at any rate a classmate, has

fallen under a rude savage warfare while battling for humanity, without the advantages or the glory of

civilized war, but simply with the consciousness of duty properly done. That one, perchance, has fallen

bravely, dutifully, without a murmur of regret, and this one, alas! where is he? Has he, too, perished, or does

he yet remember our gladsome frolics at our beloved Alma Mater. My mind shudders, shrinks from the sweet

and yet sad anticipations of the years I have not seen and may perhaps never see. But there is a sweetness, a

IT may not be inappropriate to give in this place a fewas many as I can recallof the incidents, more or

less humorous, in which I myself have taken part or have noticed at the various times of their occurrence.

During the encampment of 1873I think it was in July Smith and myself had thefor usrare

enjoyment of a visit made us by some friends. We had taken them around the place and shown and explained

to them every thing of interest. We at length took seats on "Flirtation," and gave ourselves up to pure

enjoyment such as is found in woman's presence only. The day was exceedingly beautiful; all nature seemed

loveliest just at that time, and our lone, peculiar life, with all its trials and cares, was quite forgotten. We

chatted merrily, and as ever in such company were really happy. It was so seldom we had visitorsand even

then they were mostly malesthat we were delighted to have some one with whom we could converse on

other topics than official ones and studies. While we sat there not a few strangers, visitors also, passed us, and

I do think uncultivated white people are unapproachable in downright rudeness, and yet, alas! they are our

superiors. Will prejudice ever be obliterated from the minds of the people? Will man ever cease to prejudge

But au fait! Anon a cadet, whose perfectly fitting uniform of matchless gray and immaculate white revealed

the symmetry of his form in all its manly beauty, saunters leisurely by, his head erect, shoulders back, step

quick and elastic, and those glorious buttons glittering at their brilliant points like so many orbs of a distant

stellar world. Next a plebe strolls wearily along, his drooping shoulders, hanging head, and careless gait

bespeaking the need of more squad drill. Then a dozen or more "picnicers," all females, laden with baskets,

boxes, and other et ceteras, laughing and playing, unconscious of our proximity, draw near. The younger ones

tripping playfully in front catch sight of us. Instantly they are hushed, and with hands over their mouths

retrace their steps to disclose to those in rear their astounding discovery. In a few moments all appear, and

silently and slowly pass by, eyeing us as if we were the greatest natural wonder in existence. They pass on till

out of sight, face about and "continue the motion," passing back and forth as many as five times. Wearied at

length of this performance, Smith rose and said, "Come, let's end this farce," or something to that effect. We

arose, left the place, and were surprised to find a moment after that they were actually following us.

The "Picnicers," as they are called in the corps, begin their excursions early in May, and continue them till

near the end of September. They manage to arrive at West Point at all possible hours of the day, and stay as

late as they conveniently can. In May and September, when we have battalion drills, they are a great

nuisance, a great annoyance to me especially. The vicinity of that flank of the battalion in which I was, was

where they "most did congregate." It was always amusing, though most embarrassing, to see them pointing

me out to each other, and to hear their verbal accompaniments, "There he is, the first"or such "man from

the right""or left." "Who?" "The colored cadet." "Haven't you seen him? Here, I'll show him to you," and

All through this encampment being "young; a novice in the trade," I seldom took advantage of Old Guard

privileges, or any other, for the reason that I was not accustomed to such barbarous rudeness, and did not care

It has always been a wonder to me why people visiting at West Point should gaze at me so persistently for no

other reason than curiosity. What there was curious or uncommon about me I never knew. I was not better

formed, nor more military in my bearing than all the other cadets. My uniform did not fit better, was not of

better material, nor did it cost more than that of the others. Yet for four years, by each and every visitor at

West Point who saw me, it was done. I know not why, unless it was because I was in it.

There is an old man at Highland Falls, N. Y., who is permitted to peddle newspapers at West Point. He comes

up every Sabbath, and all are made aware of his presence by his familiar cry, "Sunday news! Sunday news!"

He was approaching my tent one Sunday afternoon but was stopped by a cadet who called out to him from

across the company street, "Don't sell your papers to them niggers!" This kind advice was not heeded.

This and subsequent acts of a totally different character lead me to believe that there is not so much prejudice

in the corps as is at first apparent. A general dislike for the negro had doubtless grown up in this cadet's mind

from causes which are known to everybody at all acquainted with affairs at West Point about that time,

summer of 1873. On several occasions during my second and third years I was the grateful recipient of

several kindnesses at the hands of this same cadet, thus proving most conclusively that it was rather a

cringing disposition, a dread of what others might say, or this dislike of the negro which I have mentioned,

that caused him to utter those words, and not a prejudiced dislike of "them niggers," for verily I had won his

Just after returning from this encampment to our winter quarters, I had another adventure with Smith, my

It was just after "evening call to quarters." I knew Smith and Williams were in our room. I had been out for

some purpose, and was returning when it occurred to me to have some fun at their expense. I accordingly

walked up to the doorour "house" was at the head of the stairs and on the third floorand knocked,

endeavoring to imitate as much as possible an officer inspecting. They sprang to their feet instantly, assumed

the position of the soldier, and quietly awaited my entrance. I entered laughing. They resumed their seats with

a promise to repay me, and they did, for alas! I was "hived." Some cadet reported me for "imitating a tactical

officer inspecting." For this I was required to walk three tours of extra guard duty on three consecutive

Saturdays, and to serve, besides, a week's confinement in my quarters. The "laugh" was thus, of course,

During the summer of '74, in my "yearling camp," I made another effort at amusement, which was as

complete a failure as the attempt with Smith and Williams. I had been reported by an officer for some trifling

offence. It was most unexpected to me, and least of all from this particular officer. I considered the report

altogether uncalled for, but was careful to say nothing to that effect. I received for the offence one or two

demerits. A short while afterwards, being on guard, I happened to be posted near his tent. Determined on a bit

of revenge, and fun too, at halfpast eleven o'clock at night I placed myself near his tent, and called off in the

loudest tone I could command, "No.halfpast eleven o'clock, and alllll's wellll!" It woke him. He

arose, came to the front of his tent, and called me back to him. I went, and he ordered me to call the corporal.

I did so. When the corporal came he told him to "report the sentinel on No.for calling off improperly." If I

mistake not, I was also reported for not calling off at 12 P.M. loud enough to be heard by the next sentinel.

Thus my bit of revenge recoiled twofold upon myself, and I soon discovered that I had been paying too dear

On another occasion during the same camp I heard a cadet say he would submit to no order or command of,

nor permit himself to be marched anywhere by "the nigger," meaning myself. We were in the same company,

and it so happened at one time that we were on guard the same day, and that I was the senior member of our

company detail. When we marched off the next day the officer of the guard formed the company details to

the front, and directed the senior member of each fifteen to march it to its company street and dismiss it. I

instantly stepped to front and assumed command. I marched it as far as the color line at "support arms;"

brought them to a "carry" there and saluted the colors. When we were in the company street, I commanded in

loud and distinct tone, "Trail arms! Break ranks! March!" A cadet in a tent near by recognized my voice, and

hurried out into the company street. Meeting the cadet first mentioned above, he thus asked of him:

"Yeses, the nigger marched us in," speaking slowly and drawling it out as if he had quite lost the power of

At the following semiannual examination (January, '75), the gentleman was put on the "retired list," or

rather on the list of "blasted hopes." I took occasion to record the event in the following manner, changing of

SCENE.Hall of Cadet Barracks at West Point. Characters: RANSOM and MARS, both Cadets. RANSOM,

who has been "found" at recent semiannual examination, meets his more successful chum, MARS, on the

MARS (as they enter). Ah! how! what say? Found! Art going away? Unfortunate rather! 'm sorry! but stay!

Who hadst thou? How didst thou? Badly, I'm sure. Hadst done well they had not treated thee so.

RANSOM (sadly). Thou sayest aright. I did do my best, Which was but poorly I can but confess. The subject

MARS. Art unfortunate! but tho' 'twere amiss Me half thinks e'en that were better than this. Thou couldst

have stood the trial, if no more Than to come out low. That were better, 'm sure.

RANSOM. But 'tis too late. 'Twas but an afterthought, Which now methinks at most is worth me naught; Le

sort en est jett�, they say, you know; 'Twere idle to dream and still think of woe.

MARS. Thou sayest well! Yield not to one rebuff. Thou'rt a man, show thyself of manly stuff. The bugle

They shake hands, MARS hurries out to answer the bugle call. RANSOM prepares for immediate departure

"O dear! it is hawid to have this cullud cadet perfectly dre'fful. I should die to see my Geawge standing

next to him." Thus did one of your models of womankind, one of the negro's superiors, who annually visit

West Point to flirt, give vent to her opinion of the "cullud cadet," an opinion thought out doubtless with her

eyes, and for which she could assign no reason other than that some of her acquaintances, manifestly cadets,

concurred in it, having perhaps so stated to her. And the cadets, with their accustomed gallantry, have ever

striven to evade "standing next to him." No little amusement for such it was to mehas been afforded me

by the many ruses they have adopted to prevent it. Some of them have been extremely ridiculous, and in

While I was a plebe, I invariably fell in in the rear rank along with the other plebes. This is a necessary and

established custom. As soon as I became a thirdclassman, and had a right to fall in in the front rank

whenever necessary or convenient, they became uneasy, and began their plans for keeping me from that rank.

The first sergeant of my company did me the honor of visiting me at my quarters and politely requested

menot order me, for he had no possible authority for such an actto fall in invariably on the right of the

rear rank. To keep down trouble and to avoid any show of presumption or forwardness on my part, as I had

been advised by an officer, I did as he requested, taking my place on the right of the rear rank at every

formation of the company for another whole year. But with all this condescension on my part I was still the

object of solicitous care. My falling in there did not preclude the possibility of my own classmates, now also

risen to the dignity of thirdclassmen, falling in next to me. To perfect his plan, then, the first sergeant had

the senior plebe in the company call at his "house," and take from the roster an alphabetical list of all the

plebes in the company. With this he (the senior plebe) was to keep a special roster, detailing one of his own

classmates to fall in next to me. Each one detailed for such duty was to serve one weekfrom Sunday

morning breakfast to Sunday morning breakfast. The keeper of the roster was not of course to be detailed.

It is astonishing how little care was taken to conceal this fact from me. The plan, etc., was formed in my

hearing, and there seems to have been no effort or even desire to hide it from me. Returning from supper one

evening, I distinctly heard this plebe tell the sergeant that "Mr. refused to serve." "You tell him," said the

sergeant, "I want to see him at my 'house' after supper. If he doesn't serve I'll make it so hot for him he'll wish

Is it not strange how these models of mankind, these our superiors, strive to thrust upon each other what they

do not want themselves? It is a meanness, a baseness, an unworthiness from which I should shrink. It would

be equally astonishing that men ever submit to it, were it not that they are plebes, and therefore thus easily

When I became a secondclassman, no difference was made by the cadets in their manner of falling in,

whether because their scruples were overcome or because no fitting means presented themselves for avoiding

it, I know not. If they happened to be near me when it was time to fall in, they fell in next to me.

In the spring of '76, our then first sergeant ordered us to fall in at all formations as nearly according to size as

possible. As soon as this order was given, for some unknown reason, the old r�gime was readopted. If I

happened to fall in next to a firstclassman, and he discovered it, or if a firstclassman fell in next to me, and

afterward found it out, he would fall out and go to the rear. The second and thirdclassmen, for no other

reason than that firstclassmen did it, "got upon their dignity, and refused to stand next to me. We see here a

good illustration of that cringing, "bone popularity" spirit which I have mentioned elsewhere.

The means of prevention adopted now were somewhat different from those of a year before. A filecloser

would watch and follow me closely, and when I fell in would put a plebe on each side of me. It was really

amusing sometimes to see his eagerness, and quite as amusing, I may add, to see his dismay when I would

We see here again that cringing disposition to which I believe the whole of the illtreatment of colored cadets

has been due. The fileclosers are usually secondclass sergeants and thirdclass corporals. By way of

"boning popularity" with the upper classmen, they stoop to almost any thing. In this case they hedged me in

But it may be asked why I objected to having plebes next to me. I would answer, for several reasons. Under

existing circumstances of prejudice, it was of the utmost importance to me to keep them away from me.

Firstand by no means the least important reasonto put them in the front rank was violating a necessary

and established custom. The plebes are put in the rear rank because of their inexperience and general

ignorance of the principles of marching, dressing, etc. If they are in the front rank, it would simply be absurd

to expect good marching of them. A second reason, and by far the most important, results directly from this

one. Being between two plebes, who would not, could not keep dressed, it would be impossible for me to do

so. The general alignment of the company would be destroyed. There would be crowding and opening out of

the ranks, and it would all originate in my immediate vicinity. The fileclosers, never overscrupulous when

I was concerned, and especially when they could forward their own "popularityboning" interests, would

report me for these disorders in the company. I would get demerits and punishment for what the plebes next

to me were really responsible for. The plebes would not be reported, because if they were their inexperience

would plead strongly in their favor, and any reasonable explanation of an offence would suffice to insure its

removal. I was never overfond of demerits or punishments, and therefore strenuously opposed any thing that

Toward the end of the year the plebes, having learned more about me and the way the corps looked upon me,

became as eager to avoid me as the others. Not, however, all the plebes, for there were some who, when they

saw others trying to avoid falling in next to me, would deliberately come and take their places there. These

plebes, or rather yearlings now, were better disciplined, and, of course, my own scruples vanished.

During the last few months of the year no distinction was made, save by one or two hightoned ones.

When the next class of plebes were put in the battalion, the old cadets began to thrust them into the front rank

next to me. At first I was indignant, but upon second thought I determined to tolerate it until I should be

reported for some offence which was really an offence of the plebes. I intended to then explain the case, �

priori, in my written explanation to the commandant. I knew such a course would cause a discontinuance of

the practice, which was plainly malicious and contrary to regulations. Fortunately, however, for all

concerned, the affair was noticed by an officer, and by him summarily discontinued. I was glad of this, for the

other course would have made the cadets more unfriendly, and would have made my condition even worse

One day, during my yearling camp, when I happened to be on guard, a photographer, wishing a view of the

guard, obtained permission to make the necessary negative. As the officer of the day desired to be "took"

with the guard, he came down to the guard tents, and the guard was "turned out" for him by the sentinel. He

did not wish it then, and accordingly so indicated by saluting. I was sitting on a campstool in the shade

reading. A few minutes after the officer of the day came. I heard the corporal call out, "Fall in the guard." I

hurried for my gun, and passing near and behind the officer of the day, I heard him say to the corporal:

The corporal immediately ordered me to fetch a pail of water. As he had a perfect right to thus order me,

being for the time my senior officer, I proceeded to obey. While taking the pail the officer of the day

It is simply astonishing to see how these young men can stoop when they want any thing. A cadet of the

second classwhen I was in the third classwas once arrested for a certain offence, and, from the nature of

the charge, was likely to be courtmartialed. His friends made preparation for his defence. As I was not ten

feet from him at the time specified in the charge, my evidence would be required in the event of a trial. I was

therefore visited by one of his friends. He brought paper and pencil and made a memorandum of what I had

to say. The cadet himself had the limits of his arrest extended and then visited me in person. We conversed

quite a while on the subject, and, as my evidence would be in his favor, I promised to give it in case he was

tried. He thanked me very cordially, asked how I was getting along in my studies, expressed much regret at

my being ostracized, wished me all sorts of success, and again thanking me took his leave.

There is an article in the academic regulations which provides or declares that no citizen who has been a

cadet at the Military Academy can receive a commission in the regular army before the class of which he was

a member graduates, unless he can get the written consent of his former classmates.

A classmate of mine resigned in the summer of '75, and about a year after endeavored to get a commission. A

friend and former classmate drew up the approval, and invited the class to his "house" to sign it. When half a

dozen or more had signed it, it was sent to the guard house, and the corporal of the guard came and notified

me it was there for my consideration. I went to the guard house at once. A number of cadets were sitting or

standing around in the room. As soon as I entered they became silent and remained so, expecting, no doubt,

I'd refuse to sign it, because of the treatment I had received at their hands. They certainly had little cause to

expect that I would add my signature. Nevertheless I read the paper over and signed it without hesitation.

Their anxiety was raised to the highest possible pitch, and scarcely had I left the room ere they seized the

paper as if they would devour it. I heard some one who came in as I went out ask, "Did he sign it?"

Another case of condescension on the part of an upper classman occurred in the early part of my third year at

the Academy, and this time in the mess hall. We were then seated at the tables by classes. Each table had a

commandant, who was a cadet captain, lieutenant or sergeant, and in a few instances a corporal. At each table

there was also a carver, who was generally a corporal, occasionally a sergeant or private. The other seats were

occupied by privates, and usually in this order: firstclassmen had first and second seats, secondclassmen

second and third seats, third classmen third and fourth seats, and fourthclassmen fourth and fifth seats,

which were at the foot of the table. I had a first seat, although a secondclassman. For some reason a

firstclassman, who had a first seat at another table, desired to change seats with me. He accordingly sent a

cadet for me. I went over to his room. I agreed to make the change, provided he himself obtained permission

of the proper authorities. It was distinctly understood that he was to take my seat, a first seat, and I was to

take his seat, also a first seat. He obtained permission of the superintendent of the mess hall, and also a

written permit from the commandant. The change was made, but lo and behold! Instead of a first seat I got a

third. The agreement was thus violated by him, my superior (?), and I was dissatisfied. The whole affair was

explained to the commandant, not, however, by myself, but by my consent, the permit revoked, and I gained

my former first seat. A tactical officer asked me, "Why did you exchange with him? Has he ever done any

I told him he had not, and that I did it merely to oblige him. It was immaterial to me at what table I sat,

The baseness of character displayed by the gentleman, the reflection on myself and class would have evoked

This gentleman (?) was practically "cut" by the whole corps. He was spoken to, and that was about all that

Just after the semiannual examination following this adventure, another, more ridiculous still, occurred, of

which I was the innocent cause. The dismissal of a number of deficient plebes and others made necessary a

rearrangement of seats. The commandant saw fit to have it made according to class rank. It changed

completely the former arrangement, and gave me a third seat. A classmate, who was senior to me, had the

second seat. He did not choose to take it, and for two or more weeks refused to do so. I had the second seat

during all this time, while he was fed in his quarters by his chum. He had a set of miniature cooking utensils

in his own room, and frequently cooked there, using the gas as a source of heat. These were at last "hived,"

and he was ordered to " turn them in. He went to dinner one day when I was absent on guard. At supper he

appeared again. Some one asked him how it was he was there, glancing at the same time at me. He

He came to his meals the next day, the next, and every succeeding day regularly. Thus were his scruples

overcome. His refusing to go to his meals because he had to sit next to me was strongly disapproved by the

corps for two reasons, viz., that he ought to be man enough not to thrust on others what he himself disliked;

and that as others for two years had had seats by me, he ought not to complain because it now fell to his lot to

Just after my return, in September, 1875, from a furlough of two months, an incident occurred which,

explained, will give some idea of the low, unprincipled manner in which some of the cadets have acted

toward me. It was at cavalry drill. I was riding a horse that was by no means a favorite with us. He happened

to fall to my lot that day, and I rather liked him. His greatest faults were a propensity for kicking and slight

inequality in the length of his legs. We were marching in a column of fours, and at a slow walk. I turned my

head for some purpose, and almost simultaneously my horse plunged headlong into the fours in front of me.

It was with difficulty that I retained my seat. I supposed that when I turned my head I had accidentally

spurred him, thus causing him to plunge forward. I regained my proper place in ranks.

None of this was seen by the instructor, who was riding at the head of the column. Shortly after this I noticed

that those near me were laughing. I turned my head to observe the cause and caught the trooper on my left in

the act of spurring my horse. I looked at him long and fiercely, while he desisted and hung his head. Not long

afterwards the same thing was repeated, and this time was seen by the instructor, who happened to wheel

about as my horse rushed forward. He immediately halted the column, and, approaching, asked me, "What is

the matter with that horse, Mr. F.?" To which I replied, "The trooper on my left persists in kicking and

He then caused another trooper in another set of fours to change places with me, and thereafter all went well.

Notwithstanding the secrecy of hazing, and the great care which those who practised it took to prevent being

"hived," they sometimes overreached themselves and were severely punished. Cases have occurred where

cadets have been dismissed for hazing, while others have been less severely punished.

Sometimes, also, the joke, if I may so call it, has been turned upon the perpetrators to their utter discomfort. I

Quite often in camp two robust plebes are selected and ordered to report at a specified tent just after the

battalion returns from supper. When they report each is provided with a pillow. They take their places in the

middle of the company street, and at a given signal commence pounding each other. A crowd assembles from

all parts of camp to witness the "pillow fight," as it is called. Sometimes, also, after fighting awhile, the

On one of these occasions, after fighting quite a while, a pillow bursted, and one of the antagonists was

literally buried in feathers. At this a shout of laughter arose and the fun was complete. But alas for such

pleasures! An officer in his tent, disturbed by the noise, came out to find its cause. He saw it at a glance,

aided no doubt by vivid recollections of his own experience in his plebe camp. He called an orderly and sent

for the cadet captain of the company. When he came he was ordered to send the plebeshe said new

cadetsto their tents, and order them to remain there till permission was given to leave them. He then had

every man, not a plebe, who had been present at the pillow fight turned out. When this was done he ordered

them to pick up every feather within half an hour, and the captain to inspect at the end of that time and to see

that the order was obeyed. Thus, therefore, the plebes got the better part of the joke.

It was rumored in camp one day that the superintendent and commandant were both absent from the post, and

that the senior tactical officer was therefore acting superintendent. A plebe sentinel on Post No. 1, seeing him

approaching camp, and not knowing under the circumstances how to act, or rather, perhaps, I should say, not

knowing whether the report was true or not, called a corporal, and asked if he should salute this officer with

"present arms." To this question that dignitary replied with righteous horror, "Salute him with present arms!

No, sir! You stand at attention, and when he gets on your post shout, 'Hosannah to the supe!' This rather

startled the plebe, who found himself more confused than ever. When it was about time for the sentinel to do

something the corporal told him what to do, and returned to the guard tents. The officer was at the time the

While walking down Sixth Avenue, New York, with a young lady, on a beautiful Sabbath afternoon in the

summer of 1875, I was paid a high compliment by an old colored soldier. He had lost one leg and had been

otherwise maimed for life in the great struggle of 186165 for the preservation of the Union. As soon as he

saw me approaching he moved to the outside of the pavement and assumed as well as possible the position of

the soldier. When I was about six paces from him he brought his crutch to the position of "present arms," in a

soldierly manner, in salute to me. I raised my cap as I passed, endeavoring to be as polite as possible, both in

return for his salute and because of his age. He took the position of "carry arms," saying as he did so, "That's

We passed on, while he, too, resumed his course, ejaculating something about "goodbreeding," etc., all of

Upon inquiry I learned, as stated, that he had served in the Federal army. He had given his time and energy,

even at the risk of his life, to his country. He had lost one limb, and been maimed otherwise for life. I

During the summer of 1873 a number of cadets, who were on furlough, visited Mammoth Cave. While there

they noticed on the wall, written in pencil, the name of an officer who was an instructor in Spanish at West

Point. One of them took occasion to add to the inscription the following bit of information:

A number of cadets accosted a plebe, who had just reported in May, 1874, and the following conversation

Now it was not expected that the "sir" would be put before the name after the manner of a title, but this

impenetrable plebe put it there, and in so solemn and "don'tcare" a manner that the cadets turned away in a

Another incident, even more laughable perhaps than the preceding, occurred between a cadet and plebe,

which doubtless saved the plebe from further hazing. Approaching him with a look of utter contempt on his

"Wilreni, sir!" repeated the cadet slowly, and bowing his head he seemed for a moment buried in profoundest

thought. Suddenly brightening up, he rejoined in the most unconcerned manner possible: "Oh! yes, yes, I

remember now. You are Will Reni, the son of old man Bill Reni," put particular stress on "Will" and "Bill."

I think, though, the most laughable incident that has come under my notice was that of a certain plebe who

Each night throughout the summer encampment, the guard is supplied from the mess hall with an abundance

of sandwiches. The old cadets rarely eat them, but to the plebes, as yet unaccustomed to guard duty, they are

On one occasion when the sandwiches were unusually well prepared, and therefore unusually inviting, it was

desirable to preserve them till late in the night, till after the guard had been turned out and inspected by the

officer of the day. They were accordinglyto conceal them from the plebestransferred, with the vessel

containing them, to one of the chests of a caisson of the light battery, just in front of camp in park. Here they

were supposed to be safe. But alas for such safety! At an hour not far advanced into the night, two plebes, led

by an unerring instinctiveness, discovered the hidingplace of the sandwiches and devoured them all.

Now when the hour of feasting was come, a corporal was dispatched for the dainty dish, when, lo, and

behold! it had vanished. The plebesfor who else could thus have secretly devoured themwere brought to

account and the guilty ones discovered. They were severely censured in that contemptuous manner in which

only a cadet, an upper classman, can censure a plebe, and threatened with hazing and all sorts of

Next morning they were called forth and marched ingloriously to the presence of the commandant. Upon

learning the object of the visit he turned to the chief criminalthe finder of the sandwiches and asked

The gravity of the occasion, coupled with the enormity of the feast, was too much, and the commandant

turned away his head to conceal the laughter he could not withhold. The plebe himself was rather short and

fleshy, and the picture of mirth. Indeed to see him walking even along the company street was enough to call

forth laughter either at him as he waddled along or at the humorous remarks the act called forth from

He was confined to one of the guard tents by order of the commandant, and directed by him to submit a

written explanation for eating all the sandwiches of the guard. The explanation was unsatisfactory, and the

gentleman received some other light punishment, the nature of which has at this late day escaped my

The other plebe, being only a particeps criminis, was not so severely punished. A reprimand, I think, was the

The two gentlemen have long since gone where the "woodbine twineth"that is, been found deficient in

There was a cadet in the corps who had a wonderful propensity for using the word "mighty."

With him everything was "mighty." I honestly do not believe I ever heard him conversing when he did not

Speaking of me one day, and unconscious of my presence, he said, "I tell you he does 'mighty' well."

During drill at the siege battery on the 25th of April, 1876, an accident occurred which came near proving

fatal to one of us. I had myself just fired an 8inch howitzer, and gone to the rear to observe the effect of the

other shots. One piece had been fired, and the command for the next to fire had been given. I was watching

intently the target when I was startled by the cry of some one near me, "Look out! look out!" I turned my eyes

instinctively toward the piece just fired, but saw only smoke. I then looked up and saw a huge black body of

some kind moving rapidly over our heads. It was not until the smoke had nearly disappeared that I knew what

was the cause of the disturbance. A number of cannoneers and our instructor were vociferously asking,

"Anybody hurt? Anybody hurt?" We all moved up to the piece, and, finding no one was injured, examined it.

The piece, a 41/2inch rifle, mounted on a siege carriage, had broken obliquely from the trunnions downward

and to the rear. The reenforce thus severed from the chase broke into three parts, the nob of the cascabel,

and the other portion split in the direction of the bore. The right half of the reenforce, together with the nob

of the cascabel, were projected into the air, describing a curve over our heads, and falling at about twenty feet

from the right of the battery, having passed over a horizontal distance of about sixty or seventy feet. The left

half was thrown obliquely to the ground, tearing away in its passage the left cheek of the carriage, and

breaking the left trunnion plate. A cannoneer was standing on the platform of the next piece on the left with

the lanyard in his hand. His feet were on two adjacent deck planks, his heels being on line with the edge of

the platform. These two planks were struck upon their ends, and moved bodily, with the cadet upon them,

three or four inches from their proper place. The bolts that held them and the adjacent planks together were

It was hardly to be believed, and was not until two or three of the other cannoneers had examined him and

found him really uninjured. It was simply miraculous. The instructor sent the cannoneers to the rear, and fired

After securing the pieces and replacing equipments, we were permitted to again examine the bursted gun,

There had been some difficulty in loading the piece, especially in getting the projectile home. It was supposed

I was one summer day enjoying a walk on "Flirtation." I was alone, and, if I remember aright, "on Old Guard

privileges." Walking leisurely along I soon observed in front of me a number of young ladies, a servant girl,

They were all busily occupied in gathering wild flowers, a kind of moss and ferns which grow here in

abundance. I was first seen by one of the children, a little girl. She instantly fixed her eyes upon me, and

began vociferating in a most joyous manner, "The colored cadet! the colored cadet! I'm going to tell mamma

"It's the colored cadet! I'm going to tell mamma. I'm going to tell mamma I've seen the colored cadet."

All the others stopped gathering flowers, and watched me till I was out of sight.

A similar display of astonishment has occurred at every annual examination since I became a cadet, and on

these occasions the ladies more than anybody else have been the ones to show it.

Whenever I took my place on the floor to receive my enunciation or to be questioned, I have observed

whisperings, often audible, and gestures of surprise among the lady visitors. I have frequently heard such

exclamations as this: "Oh! there's the colored cadet! there's the colored cadet!"

All of this naturally tended to confuse me, and it was only by determined effort that I maintained any degree

of coolness. Of course they did not intend to confuse me. Nothing was, I dare say, further from their thoughts.

It was rather laughable to hear a cadet, who was expounding the theory of twilight, say, pointing to his figure

on the blackboard: "If a spectator should cross this limit of the crepuscular zone he would enter into final

Now "final darkness," as we usually understand it, refers to something having no resemblance whatever to

The solemn manner in which he spoke it, together with their true significations, made the circumstance quite

For an unusual display of grossness a number of plebes were ordered by the cadet lieutenant on duty over

them to report at his "house" at a specified hour. They duly reported their presence, and were directed to

assume the position of the soldier, facing the wall until released. After silently watching them for a

considerable time, the lieutenant, who had a remarkable penchant for joking, called two of them into the

middle of the room. He caused them to stand dos � dos, at a distance of about one foot from each other, and

then bursting into a laugh, which he vainly endeavored to suppress, he commanded, "Second, exercise!"

Now to execute this movement the hands are extended vertically over the head and the hands joined. At the

command "Two!" given when this is done, the arms are brought briskly forward and downward until the

hands touch if possible the ground or floor. The plebes having gone through the first motion, the lieutenant

"When I say 'Two!' I want to see you men come down with life, and touch the floor. Two!"

At the command they both quickly, and "with life" brought their bodies forward and their arms downward;

nay, they but attempted, for scarcely had they left the vertical ere their bodies collided, and they were each

hurled impetuously, by the inevitable reaction in opposite directions, over a distance of several feet.

Their bodies being in an inclined position when struck, and the blow being of great force, they were

necessarily forced still further from the erect attitude, and were with much difficulty able to keep themselves

from falling outright on the floor. Of course all present, save those concerned, enjoyed it immensely. Indeed

it was enjoyable. Even the plebes themselves had a hearty laugh over it when they were dismissed.

Again a cadet lieutenant, who was on duty at the time over the "Seps," ordered a number of them to report at

his "house" at a given hour. They had been unusually gross, and he intended to punish them by keeping them

standing in his quarters. They reported, and were put in position to serve their punishment. For some reason

the lieutenant left the room, when one of the "Seps" faced to the others and thus spoke to them:

Now it so happened that P's chum was present, but in his alcove, and this was not known to the Seps.

When the Sep had finished speaking, this chum came forth and "went for" him. He made the Sep assume the

soldier's position, and then commanded, "Second, exercise!" which command the Sep proceeded to obey.

Another cadet coming in found him vigorously at it, and queried, "Well, mister, what's all that for?"

The word eccentricity was not interpreted by the cadet, of course, as the Sep meant it should be, but in the

Hence it was that Mr. Masked, "Well, sir, what's the expression for my eccentricity?"

There is another incident remotely connected with my first tour of guard duty which may be mentioned here.

At about eleven o'clock A.M., in obedience to a then recent order, my junior reported at the observatory to

make the necessary observations for finding the error of the Tower clock. After an elaborate explanation by

an officer then present upon the graduation of the vernier and the manner of reading it, the cadet set the

finders so as to read the north polar distance of the sun for that day at West Point apparent noon. When it was

about time for the sun's limb to begin its transit of the wires, the cadet took position to observe it. The

instructor was standing ready to record the times of transit over each wire. Time was rapidly passing, and not

yet had the cadet called out "Ready." The anxious instructor cautiously queried:

Fearing he might be unable to make his observations that day unless the difficulty was speedily removed, the

instructor himself took position at the transit, and made the ridiculous discovery that the cap had not been

removed from the farther end of the telescope, and yet it kept getting brighter.

One day in the early summer of 1875, a cadet was showing a young lady the various sights and wonders at

West Point, when they came across an old French cannon bearing this inscription, viz., "Charles de Bourbon,

She was the first to notice it, and astonished the cadet with the following rendition of it:

"I suppose that means Charles Bourbon made the gun, and the Spanish (?) that the artilleryman must have his

"The authorities of West Point have entered an interdict against the cadets loaning their sashes and other

military adornments to young ladies, and great is the force of feminine indignation." Summer of 1873.

A young lieutenant at the Academy and his fianc�e were seen by an old maid at the hotel to kiss each other.

At the first opportunity she reproved the fair damsel for, to her, such unmaidenly conduct. With righteous

"Come kiss me, love, list not what they say, Their passions are cold, wasted away. They know not how two

hearts like ours are Long to mingle i' the sweetness o' the kiss, That like the soft light of a heavenly star, As it

wanders from its world to this, Diffuses itself through ev'ry vein And meets on the lips to melt again."

MY four years were drawing to a close. They had been years of patient endurance and hard and persistent

work, interspersed with bright oases of happiness and gladness and joy, as well as weary barren wastes of

loneliness, isolation, unhappiness, and melancholy. I believe I have dischargedI know I have tried to do

soevery duty faithfully and conscientiously. It had been a sort of bittersweet experience, this experimental

life of mine at West Point. It was almost over, and whatever of pure sweetness, whatever of happiness, or

"Speaking of the Military Academy, we understand that the only colored cadet now at West Point will not

only graduate at the coming June commencement, but that his character, acquirements, and standing on the

merit roll are such as will insure his graduation among the highest of his class."Harper's Weekly, April

All recitations of the graduating class were discontinued on the last scholar day of May. On June 1st

examination began. The class was first examined in mineralogy and geology. In this particular subject I

"maxed it," made a thorough recitation. I was required to discuss the subject of "Mesozoic Time." After I had

been examined in this subject Bishop Quintard, of Tennessee, a member of the Board of Visitors, sent for me,

and personally congratulated me on my recitation of that day, as well as for my conduct during the whole

four years. My hopes never were higher; I knew I would graduate. I felt it, and I made one last effort for rank.

I wanted to graduate as high up as possible. I was not without success, as will subsequently appear. The New

York Herald was pleased to speak as follows of my recitation in mineralogy and geology:

"Today the examination of the first class in mineralogy and geology was completed, and the first section

was partially examined in engineering. In the former studies the class acquitted themselves in a highly

creditable manner, and several members have shown themselves possessed of abilities far above the average.

The class has in its ranks a son of General B. F. Butler, Hon. John Bigelow's son, and sons of two

exConfederate officers. Flipper, the colored cadet, was examined today, and produced a highly favorable

impression upon the board not less by his ready and intelligent recitation than by his modest, unassuming,

and gentlemanly manner. There is no doubt that he will pass, and he is said to have already ordered a cavalry

The class was next examined in law. In this, also, I exceeded my most sanguine expectations, again "maxing

it" on a thorough recitation. My subject was "Domicile." Senator Maxey, of the Board of Visitors, questioned

me closely. The Bishop of Tennessee left his seat in the board, came outside when the section was dismissed,

and shook my hand in hearty congratulation. These were the proudest moments of my life. Even some of my

own classmates congratulated me on this recitation. All that loneliness, dreariness, and melancholy of the

four years gone was forgotten. I lived only in the time being and was happy. I was succeeding, and was

"The examination of the first class in law will be completed tomorrow. The sections thus far called up have

done very well. The colored cadet, Flipper, passed uncommonly well this morning, showing a practical

knowledge of the subject very satisfactory to Senator Maxey, who questioned him closely, and to the rest of

the board. He has a good command of plain and precise English, and his voice is full and pleasant. Mr.

Flipper will be graduated next week with the respect of his instructors, and not the less of his fellows, who

have carefully avoided intercourse with him. The quiet dignity which he has shown during this long isolation

of four years has been really remarkable. Until another of his race, now in one of the lower classes, arrived,

Flipper scarcely heard the sound of his own voice except in recitation, and it is to be feared that unless he is

detailed at Howard University, which has been mentioned as possible, his trials have only begun."

The class was next examined in civil and military engineering. In this also I did as well as in either of the

other studies. I made a thorough recitation. I was required to explain what is meant by an "order of battle,"

"Flipper, the colored cadet from South Carolina, was up this afternoon and acquitted himself remarkably

well. Some time since he was recommended for a higher grade than the one he holds, and his performance

In ordnance and gunnery the class was next examined. In this I was less successful. I was to assume one of

Captain Didion's equations of the trajectory in air, and determine the angle of projection represented by phi,

and to explain the construction and use of certain tables used in connection with it. I made a fair recitation,

but one by no means satisfactory to myself. I lost four files on it at least. A good recitation in ordnance and

gunnery would have brought me out forty five or six instead of fifty. I did not make it, and it was too late to

better it. This was the last of our examination. It ended on the 11th day of June. On the 14th we were

During the examination I received letters of congratulation in every mail. Some of them may not be

MY DEAR MR. FLIPPER: It has been four years since I last addressed you. Then you had just entered the

Academy with other young colored men, who have since dropped by the way. I was at that time the editor of

the Era in this city, and wrote an article on West Point and snobocracy which you may remember reading.

I felt a thrill of pleasure here the other day when I read your name as the first graduate from the Academy. I

take this opportunity of writing you again to extend my hearty congratulations, and trust your future career

may be as successful as your academic one. "My boy," Whittaker, has, I am told, been rooming with you, and

DEAR SIR: I have been much pleased reading the complimentary references to your approaching graduation

which have appeared in the New York papers the past week. I beg to congratulate you most heartily, and I

sincerely trust that the same intelligence and pluck which has enabled you to successfully complete your

academic course may be shown in a still higher degree in the new sphere of duty soon to be entered upon.

DEAR SIR: Having noticed in the daily papers of this city an account of the successful termination of your

course at the Military Academy, we hasten to tender you our sincere congratulations.

We are prompted to this act by an experimental knowledge of the social ostracism and treacherous duplicity

to which you must have been made the unhappy victim during the long years of faithful study through which

We congratulate you upon the moral courage and untiring energy which must have been yours, to enable you

to successfully battle against the immeasurable influence of the prejudice shown to all of us at both of our

national schools. We hail your success as a national acknowledgment, in a new way, of the mental and moral

worth of our race; and we feel amply repaid for the many privations we have undergone in the naval branch

of our service, in noting the fact that one of us has been permitted to successfully stand the trying ordeal.

Trusting that the same firmness of purpose and untiring energy, which have characterized your stay there,

POSTOFFICE, NEW YORK CITY, N. Y. OFFICE OF THE POSTMASTER, Wednesday, June 7, 1877.

MY DEAR FRIEND: Let me extend to you my full gratitude upon your success at West Point. I was

overjoyed when I saw it. My friends are delighted with you, and they desire to see you when you come down.

Let me know when you think you will leave West Point, and I will look out for you.

MY DEAR FRIEND: I wish to congratulate you upon passing successfully your final examination, and salute

you as the first young colored man who has had the manhood and courage to struggle through and overcome

every obstacle. So many of our young men had failed that I wondered if you would be able to withstand all

the opposition you met with, whether you could endure the kind of life they mete out to our young men at our

national Military Academy. I rejoice to know that you have won this important victory over prejudice and

caste. This will serve you in good stead through many a conflict in life. Your path will not be all strewn with

roses; something of that caste and prejudice will still pursue you as you enter the broader arena of military

life, but you must make up your mind to live it down, and your first victory will greatly aid you in this

direction. One thing, allow me to impress upon you: you are not fighting your own battle, but you are fighting

the battle of a struggling people; and for this reason, my dear Flipper, resolve now in your deepest soul that

come what may you will never surrender; that you will never succumb. Others may leave the service for more

lucrative pursuits; your duty to your people and to yourself demand that you remain.

Be assured that whatever you do, wherever you may go, you always have my deepest sympathy and best

Even the cadets and other persons connected with the Academy congratulated me. Oh how happy I was! I

prized these good words of the cadets above all others. They knew me thoroughly. They meant what they

said, and I felt I was in some sense deserving of all I received from them by way of congratulation. Several

visited my quarters. They did not hesitate to speak to me or shake hands with me before each other or any one

else. All signs of ostracism were gone. All felt as if I was worthy of some regard, and did not fail to extend it

At length, on June 14th, I received the reward of my labors, my "sheepskin," the United States Military

Academy Diploma, that glorious passport to honor and distinction, if the bearer do never disgrace it.

Here is the manner of ceremony we had on that day, as reported in the New York Times:

"The concluding ceremony in the graduation exercises at the West Point Academy took place this morning,

when the diplomas were awarded to the graduates. The ceremony took place in the open air under the shadow

of the maple trees, which form almost a grove in front of the Academy building. Seats had been arranged here

for the spectators, so as to leave a hollow square, on one side of which, behind a long table, sat the various

dignitaries who were to take part in the proceedings. In front of them, seats were arranged for the graduating

class. The cadets formed line in front of the barracks at 10.30, and, preceded by the band playing a stirring

air, marched to the front of the Academy building. The first class came without their arms; the other classes

formed a sort of escort of honor to them. The graduating class having taken their seats, the other classes

stacked arms and remained standing in line around the square. The proceedings were opened by an address

from Professor Thompson, of the School of Technology, Worcester Mass., who is the Chairman of the Board

And thus after four years of constant work amid many difficulties did I obtain my reward.

"Lieutenant H. O. Flipper was the only cadet who received the cheers of the assembled multitude at West

Point upon receiving his parchment. How the fellows felt who couldn't associate with him we do not know;

but as the old Christian woman said, they 'couldn't a been on the mountain top.'" Christian Recorder.

Victor Hugo says somewhere in his works that he who drains a marsh must necessarily expect to hear the

frogs croak. I had graduated, and of course the newspapers had to have a say about it. Some of the articles are

really amusing. I couldn't help laughing at them when I read them. Here is something from the New York

"Senator James G. Blaine, with his wife and daughter and Miss Dodge ('Gail Hamilton') left at noon

yesterday in anticipation of the rush. Before going the Senator did a very gracious and kindly deed in an

"'I don't know that you have any political friends in your own State, Mr. Flipper, and you may find it

necessary to have an intermediary in Congress to help you out of your difficulties. I want you to consider me

"Bishop Quintard, of Tennessee, and Senator Maxey, of Texas, also complimented the pioneer graduate of

the colored race upon his conduct throughout the four years of his training, and proffered their sympathy and

assistance. With these encouragements from prominent men of both political parties the young man seemed

deeply touched, and thanking them suitably he returned with a light heart to his quarters."

It was so very kind of the distinguished senators and bishop. I valued these congratulations almost as much as

The New York Herald again speaks, and that about not hearing my voice, etc., made me "larf." Here is the

"Flipper, the colored cadet, who graduates pretty well up in his class, said to me today that he is determined

to get into either the Ninth or Tenth colored cavalry regiment if possible. He seems to be very happy in view

of the honorable close of his academic career, and entertains little doubt that he can procure the appointment

he wishes. When asked whether he was not aware that there was a law providing that even colored troops

must be officered by white men, he replied that he had heard something of that years ago, but did not think it

was true. 'If there is such a law,' he said emphatically, but with good humor, 'it is unconstitutional and cannot

be enforced.' He added that several weeks ago he wrote to a prominent gentleman in Alabama to inquire what

the existing law on the subject was, and had not yet received an answer. I questioned him about his

experience in the Academy, And he said that he had suffered but little on account of his race. The first year

was very hard, as the class all made their dislike manifest in a variety of ways. 'That,' he said, 'was in a great

measure caused by the bad conduct of Smith, the colored cadet who preceded me. When the class found out

that I was not like him, they treated me well. The professors act toward me in every respect as toward the

others, and the cadets, I think, do not dislike me. But they don't associate with me. I don't care for that. If they

don't want to speak to me I don't want them to, I'm sure.' Save in the recitation room Flipper never heard the

sound of his own voice for months and months at a time; but he was kept so hard at work all the time that he

did not mind it. If he should join a regiment, however, he would be more alone even than he has been here,

for the association with other officers in the line of duty would not be so close as it has been with the cadets.

He would be isolated ostracizedand he would feel it more keenly, because he would have more leisure

for social intercourse, and his mind would not be so occupied as it has been here with studies.

"Senator Blaine, in the course of a conversation last night, thought the career of Flipper would be to go South

and become a leader of his race. He could in that way become famous, and could accomplish much good for

When I entered the Academy I saw in a paper something about colored officers being put in white regiments,

etc. It purported to be a conversation with the then Secretary of War, who said there was such a law, and that

it would be enforced. The then Secretary of War has since told me he was sure there was such a law, until to

satisfy himself he searched the Revised Statutes, when he found he was mistaken.

I have mentioned elsewhere the untruthfulness of the statement that I never heard my own voice except in

The recitationroom. Every one must know that could not be true. The statement is hardly worth a passing

"If he should join a regiment, however," etc. Ah! well, I have joined my regiment long ago. Let me say,

before I go further, I am putting this manuscript in shape for the press, and doing it in my quarters at Fort Sill,

I. T. These remarks are inserted apropos of this article. From the moment I reached Sill I haven't experienced

any thing but happiness. I am not isolated. I am not ostracized by a single officer. I do not "feel it more

keenly," because what the Herald said is not true. The Herald, like other papers, forgets that the army is

officered by men who are presumably officers and gentlemen. Those who are will treat me as become

gentlemen, as they do, and those who are not I will thank if they will "ostracize" me, for if they don't I will

"But to get into a cavalry regiment is the highest ambition of most cadets, and failing in that it is almost a

tossup between the infantry and the artillery. Flipper, the South Carolina colored cadet, wants to get into the

cavalry, and as there is a black regiment of that character he will, it is thought, be assigned to that. There is in

existence a law specifying that even black regiments shall be officered by white men, and it is thought there

will be some trouble in assigning Flipper. As any such law is in opposition to the constitutional amendments,

of course it will be easily rescinded. From the disposition shown by most of the enlisted men with whom I

have conversed at odd times upon this subject, I fancy that if Flipper were appointed to the command of

white soldiers they would be restive, and would, if out upon a scout, take the first opportunity to shoot him;

and this feeling exists even among men here who have learned to respect him for what he is."

Now that is laughable, isn't it? What he says about the soldiers at West Point is all "bosh." Nobody will

believe it. I don't. I wish the Herald reporter who wrote the above would visit Fort Sill and ask some of the

white soldiers there what they think of me. I am afraid the Herald didn't get its "gift of prophecy" I from the

right place. Such blunders are wholly inexcusable. The Herald reporter deserves an "extra" (vide Cant Terms,

etc.) for that. I wish he could get one at any rate. Perhaps, however, the following will excuse him. It is true.

"He is spoken of by all the officers as a hard student and a gentleman. To a very great extent he has

conquered the prejudices of his fellows, and although they still decline to associate with him it is evident that

they respect him. Said one of his class this morning: 'Flipper has certainly shown pluck and gentlemanly

qualities, and I shall certainly shake his "flipper" when we say "Goodby." We have no feeling against him at

all, but we could not associate with him. You see we are so crowded together here that we are just like one

family, possessing every thing in common and borrowing every thing, even to a pair of white trousers, and

we could not hold such intimate fellowship with him. It may be prejudice, but we could not do it; so we

simply let him alone, and he has lived to himself, except when we drill with him. Feel bad about it? Well, I

suppose he did at first, but he has got used to it now. The boys were rather afraid that when he should come to

hold the position as officer of the guard that he would swagger over them, but he showed good sense and

taste, merely assuming the rank formally and leaving his junior to carry out the duty.'"

That glorious day of graduation marked a new epoch in my military life. Then my fellowcadets and myself

forgot the past. Then they atoned for past conduct and welcomed me as one of them as well as one among

I must revert to that Herald's article just to show how absurd it is to say I never heard the sound of my own

voice except in the sectionroom. I heard it at reveille, at breakfast, dinner, and supper roll calls, at the

table, at taps, and at every parade I attended during the dayin all no less than ten or twelve times every

single day during the four years. Of course I heard it in other places, as I have explained elsewhere. I always

had somebody to talk to every single day I was at the Academy. Why, I was the happiest man in the

institution, except when I'd get brooding over my loneliness, etc. Such moments would come, when it would

seem nothing would interest me. When they were gone I was again as cheerful and as happy as ever. I learned

to hate holidays. At those times the other cadets would go off skating, rowing, or visiting. I had no where to

go except to walk around the grounds, which I sometimes did. I more often remained in my quarters. At these

times barracks would be deserted and I would get so lonely and melancholy I wouldn't know what to do. It

was on an occasion like this Thanksgiving DayI wrote the words given in another place, beginning,

"Oh! 'tis hard this lonely living, to be In the midst of life so solitary," etc.

Here is something from Harper's Weekly. The northern press generally speak in the same tenor of my

"Inman Edward Page, a colored student at Brown University, has succeeded in every respect better than his

brother Flipper at West Point. While a rigid nonintercourse law was for four years maintained between

Flipper and the nascent warriors at the Military Academy, Page has lived in the largestleaved clover at

Brown, and in the Senior year just closed was chosen Classday Oratora position so much coveted among

students ambitious for class honors that it is ranked by many even higher than the Salutatory or the

Valedictory. Page has throughout been treated by his classmates as one of themselves. He is a good writer

and speaker, though not noticeably better than some of his classmates. His conduct has been uniformly

modest but selfrespectful, and he had won the esteem of professors as well as students. The deportment of

his class toward him is in high and honorable contrast with that pursued by the less manly students supported

by the government at West Point, who may have already learned that the 'plain people' of the country are with

Here is something of a slightly different kind from a Georgia paperAugusta Chronicle and

"Benjamin F. Butler, Jr., who graduated at West Point last summer in the same class with the colored cadet

from Georgia, Flipper, has been assigned for duty to the Ninth Cavalry, the same regiment to which Flipper is

attached. The enlisted men in this regiment are all negroes. Ben, senior, doubtless engineered the assignment

in order to make himself solid with the colored voters of the South. Ben, like old Joe Bagstock, is devilish

It is in error as to my assignment. Lieutenant Butler (whose name, by the way, is not Benjamin F., Jr.) was

assigned to the Ninth Cavalry. Here is the truth about my assignment, given in the Sing Sing (N. Y.)

"Cadet Flipper has been appointed to the Tenth U. S. Cavalry (colored), now in Texas. Secretary of State

Bigelow's son has also been assigned to the same regiment. We wonder if the nonintercourse between the

two at West Point will be continued in the army. Both have the same rank and are entitled to the same

privileges. Possibly a campaign among the Indians, or a brush with the 'Greasers' on the Rio Grande, will

The National Monitor, of Brooklyn (N. Y.), has this much to say. It may be worth some study by the cadets

"Lieutenant Flipper, colored, a recent graduate from West Point, is a modest gentleman, and no grumbler. He

says that privately he was treated by fellowcadets with proper consideration, but reluctantly admits that he

was publicly slighted. He can afford to be untroubled and magnanimous. How is it with his fellows? Will not

shame ere long mantle their cheeks at the recollection of this lack of moral courage on their part? A quality

far more to be desired than any amount of physical heroism they may ever exhibit."

Here is something extra good from the Hudson River Chronicle, of Sing Sing. To all who want to know the

truth about me physically, I refer them to this article. I refer particularly to the editor of a certain New

Orleans paper, who described me as a "little bowlegged grif of the most darkly coppery hue."

"For a few days past Lieutenant Henry O. Flipper, the colored cadet who graduated from West Point

Academy last week, has been the guest of Professor John W. Hoffman, of this place. Lieutenant Flipper is a

native of Atlanta, Georgia, whence General Sherman commenced that glorious march to the sea which

proved what a hollow shell the Southern Confederacy really was. The lieutenant evidently has a large strain

of white blood in his veins, and could probably, if so disposed, trace descent from the F. F's. He stands six

feet, is well proportioned, has a keen, quick eye, a gentlemanly address, and a soldierly bearing. He goes

from here to his home in Georgia, on a leave of absence which extends to the first of November, when he will

join the Tenth Cavalry, to which he has been assigned as Second Lieutenant. This assignment shows that

Lieutenant Flipper stood above the average of the graduating class, as the cavalry is the next to the highest

grade in the serviceonly the Engineer Corps taking precedence of the cavalry arm.

"For four long years Cadet Flipper has led an isolated life at the Pointwithout one social companion, being

absolutely ostracized by his white classmates. As much as any mortal, he can say:

"'In the crowd They would not deem me one of such; I stood Among them, but not of them; in a shroud Of

"There must have been much of inherent manhood in a boy that could stand that long ordeal, and so bear

himself at the close that, when his name was pronounced among the graduates, the fair women and brave men

who had gathered to witness the going out into the world of the nation's wards, with one accord greeted the

lone student with a round of applause that welcomed none others of the class, and that could call from

Speaker Blaine the strong assurance that if he ever needed a friend he might trustingly call on him.

"'The path of glory leads but to the grave,' but we venture the prediction that Lieutenant Flipper will tread that

path as fearlessly and as promptly as any of his comrades of the 'Class of '77.'"

Here is an editorial article from the New York Tribune. It needs no comment, nor do the two following,

"Among the West Point graduates this year is young Flipper, a lad of color and of African descent. It is stated

that he acquitted himself very respectably in his examination by the Board of Visitors, that he will pass

creditably, and that he will go into the cavalry, which is rather an aristocratic branch, we believe, of the

service. Mr. Flipper must have had rather a hard time of it during his undergraduate career, if, as we find it

stated, most if not all his white fellowstudents have declined to associate with him. He has behaved so well

under these anomalous circumstances, that he has won the respect of those who, so far as the discipline of the

school would permit, ignored his existence. 'We have no feeling against him,' said one of the students, 'but

still we could not associate with him. It may be prejudice, but still we couldn't do it.' Impossibilities should be

required of no one, and if the white West Pointers could not treat Mr. Flipper as if he were one of themselves,

why of course that is an end of the matter. So long as they kept within the rules of the service, and were guilty

of no conduct 'unbecoming an officer and a gentleman,' it was not for their commanders to interfere. But

when they tell us that they couldn't possibly associate with Mr. Flipper, who is allowed to have 'shown pluck

and gentlemanly qualities,' we may at least inquire whether they have tried to do so. Conquering prejudices

implies a fight with prejudices have these young gentlemen had any such fight? Have they too 'shown

"We are not disposed to speak harshly of these fastidious young fellows, who will not be long out of the

school before they will be rather sorry that they didn't treat Mr. Flipper a little more cordially. But a much

more important matter is that he has, in spite of his color, made a good record every way, has kept up with his

class, has not been dropped or dismissed, but emerges a fullblown Second Lieutenant of Cavalry. He has

thus achieved a victory not only for himself but for his race. He has made matters easier for future colored

cadets; and twenty years hence, if not sooner, the young white gentlemen of West Point will read of the

fastidiousness of their predecessors with incredulous wonder. Time and patience will settle every thing."

"The most striking illustration of class prejudice this year has been afforded, not by Mississippi or Louisiana,

but by West Point. In 1873 Cadet Flipper entered the Military Academy. God had given him a black skin, a

warm heart, an active brain, and a patriotic ambition. He was guilty of no other crime than that of being a

negro, and bent on obtaining a good education. He represented a race which had done as good fighting for the

flag as any done by the fair skinned AngloSaxon or Celt. Congress had recognized his right and the right

"But his classmates decided that it should be denied him. If they had possessed the brutal courage of the

murderers of Chisholm they would have shot him, or whipped him, or hung him; but they were not brave

enough for that, and they invented instead a punishment worse than the State has inflicted upon its most

brutal criminals. They condemned him to four years of solitude and silence. For four years not a classmate

spoke to Cadet Flipper; for three years he did not hear his own voice, except in the recitationroom, on leave

of absence, or in chance conversation with a stray visitor. Then another negro entered West Point, and he had

one companion. The prison walls of a Sing Sing cell are more sympathetic than human prejudice. And in all

that class of '77 there were not to be found a dozen men brave enough to break through this wall of silence

and give the imprisoned victim his liberty. At least two thirds of the class are Republican appointees; and not

one champion of equal rights. In all that class but one heroand he a negro. Seventyfive braves against

one! And the one was victorious. He fought out the four years' campaign, conquered and graduated. Honor to

"We have received several letters on the subject of Cadet Flipper, to whose treatment at West Point we

recently called the attention of our readers. One of them is from a former instructor, who bears a high

"'I want to thank you for your editorial in the Christian Union about Cadet Flipper. He was one of our boys;

was with us in school from the beginning of his education till Freshman year in college, when he received his

appointment to West Point. He was always obedient, faithful, modest, and in every way manly. We were

sorry to have him leave us; but now rejoice in his victory, and take pride in him.

"'During all these years, in his correspondence with his friends, he has not, so far as I can learn, uttered a

"A second is from a Canadian reader, who objects to our condemnation of the AngloSaxon race, and insists

that we should have reserved it for the Yankees. In Canada, he assures us, the color line is unknown, and that

negroes and AngloSaxons mingle in the same school and in the same sports without prejudice. Strange to

"The third letter comes indirectly from Lieutenant Flipper himself. In it the writer gives us the benefit of

"'Mr. Flipper is highly respected here, and has been received by his former teachers and friends with pleasure

and pride. His deportment and character have won respect and confidence for himself and his race. As to his

treatment at West Point, he assures me that the "papers" are far astray. There was no ostracism on the part of

his fellowcadets, except in the matter of personal public association. He was invariably spoken to and

"We are glad to be assured that it was not as bad as we had been informed by what we considered as good

authority; and we are still more glad to know that Lieutenant Flipper, instead of making much of his social

martyrdom, has the good sense to make as light of it as he conscientiously can. But if it is true that there were

cadets who did not sympathize with the action of the class, and were brave enough to speak to their colored

comrade in private, it was a pity that they were not able to screw their courage up to a little higher point, and

The people at large seem to be laboring under a delusion about West Point, at least the West Point that I

knew. I know nothing of what West Point was, or of what was done there before I entered the Academy. I

have heard a great deal and read a great deal, and I am compelled to admit I have doubts about much of it. At

the hands of the officers of the institution my treatment didn't differ from that of the other cadets at all, and at

the hands of the cadets themselves it differed solely "in the matter of personal public association." I was

never persecuted, or abused, or called by approbrious epithets in my hearing after my first year. I am told it

has been done, but in my presence there has never been any thing but proper respect shown me. I have

mentioned a number of things done to me by cadets, and I have known the same things to be done to white

cadets. For instance, I was reported for speaking to a sergeant about the discharge of his duty. (See Chapter

X., latter part, on that subject.) The same thing occurred to several members of the class of '74. They were

ordered into the rear rank by a sergeant of the second class, when they were first classmen. They were

Some New England paper contributes the following articles to this discussion, parts of which I quote:

"The HiltonSeligman controversy is one of those incidents which illustrate some of the features of our social

life. The facts can briefly be stated. A Jewish gentleman, of wealth and position, applies for rooms at the

Grand Union Hotel, Saratoga, and is flatly refused admission because he is a Jew. The public indignation is

so great that the manager of the hotel is obliged to defend the act, and puts in the plea that a man has the right

"But before our anger cools, let us remember the case of the colored cadet at West Point. During his course

he met with constant rebuffs. He was systematically cut by his fellowschoolmates. Instead of extending to

him a generous sympathy in his noble ambition, they met him with sneers. All the feelings which should

guide a chivalric soldier and lead him to honor real heroism, were quenched by the intense prejudice against

color. Mean and despicable as is the spirit which prompted themanager of the Grand Union Hotel to refuse

to entertain the rich Jewish banker, that which influenced the young men at West Point is still more deserving

Within the last thirty years there has been a great change in public sentiment relating to colored persons. That

it has become wholly just and kind cannot be shown; but it is far less unjust and cruel than it used to be. In

most of the old free States, at least, tidy, intelligent, and courteous American citizens of African descent are

treated with increasing respect for their rights and feelings. In public conveyances we find them enjoying all

the consideration and comforts of other passengers. At our public schools they have cordial welcome and fair

play. We often see them walking along the street with white schoolmates who have evidently lost sight of the

difference in complexions. Colored boys march in the ranks of our school battalions without receiving the

slightest insult. Colored men have been United States senators and representatives. Frederick Douglass is

"There is one conspicuous place, however, where castefeeling seems to have survived the institution of

slavery, and that is West Point. There the old prejudice is as strong, active, and mean as ever. Of this there

has been a recent and striking instance In the case of young Flipper who has just graduated. It appears that

during his whole course this worthy young man was subjected to the most relentless 'snubbing.' All his

fellowstudents avoided him habitually. In the recitationroom and upon the parade ground, by day and by

night, he was made to feel that he belonged to an inferior and despised race, and that no excellence of

deportment, diligence in study, or rank in his class could entitle him to the recognition accorded to every

white dunce and rowdy. Yet with rare strength of character he persevered, and when, having maintained the

standing of No. fifty in a class of seventysix, he received his wellearned diploma, there was a round of

"If West Point is to continue to be a school characterized by aristocracy based upon creed, race, or color, so

undemocratic and unrepublican as to be out of harmony with our laws and institutions, it will do more harm

than good, and, like other nuisances, it should be abated. If our rulers are sincere in their professions, and

faithful to their duties, a better state of things may be brought about. Military arts must be acquired

somewhere; but if the present Academy cannot be freed from plantation manners, it may be well to establish

a new one without proslavery traditions, or, as has been suggested by the Providence Journal, to endow

military departments in the good colleges where character and not color is the test of worth and manhood."

"A reception was given last evening by Mr. James W. Moore, in the rooms of the Lincoln Literary Musical

Association, 132 West Twentyseventh Street, to Lieutenant H. O. Flipper, of Georgia, the colored cadet

who has just graduated at West Point. Mr. Moore has had charge of the sick room of Commodore Garrison

since his illness. The chandeliers were decorated with small flags. On a table on the platform rested a large

basket of flowers, bearing the card of Barrett H. Van Auken, a grandson of Commodore Garrison. Among the

pictures on the wall were many relating to Lincoln and the emancipation proclamation. Cheerful music was

"The guests began to arrive about nine o'clock, the ladies in large numbers, and the room was soon abreeze

with a buzz of conversation and the rustle of gayly colored dresses and bright ribbons.

"The grand entree was at a quarter before ten. Lieutenant Flipper entered the room in full uniform. A heavy

yellow horsehair plume fell down over his cavalry helmet. His coat was new and bright, and glittered with

its gold buttons and tasselled aigulets. By his side hung a long cavalry sabre in a gilt scabbard. His

appearance was the signal for a buzz of admiration. He is very tall and well made. Beside him was Mr. James

W. Moore. Behind him, as he walked through the thronged rooms, were the Rev. Dr. Henry Highland

Garnett, and Mrs. Garnett; the Rev. E. W. S. Peck of the Thirtyfifth Street Methodist Church; Mr. Charles

Remond Douglass, son of Fred Douglass, and United States Consul in San Domingo; the Rev. J. S. Atwell, of

St. Philip's Episcopal Church; the Rev. John Peterson; Professor Charles L. Reason, of the Fortyfirst Street

"The Lieutenant was led upon the stage by Mr. Garnett and seated at the extreme left, while Dr. Garnett took

a seat at the extreme right. Next to the Lieutenant sat Miss Martha J. Moore and Miss Fanny McDonough,

Mr. P. S. Porter, Dr. Ray, Mr. Atwell, and Professor Reason completed the semicircle, of which Lieutenant

Flipper and Dr. Garnett formed the extremities. The Rev. Mr. Atwell sat in the middle.

"After all were seated, Dr. Garnett called Mr. Douglass forward to a vacant seat on the platform. In

introducing Lieutenant Flipper, Dr. Garnett said he had honored himself and his race by his good scholarship

and pluck. Nowhere else was there, he thought, such ironbound and coppercovered aristocracy as in West

Point. Who could have thought that any one wearing the 'shadowed livery of the burnished sun' would ever

dare to be an applicant? Young Smith's high personal courage had led him to resent a blow with a blow, and

his career in the Academy was cut short. Lieutenant Flipper had encountered the same cold glances, but he

had triumphed, and appeared before his friends in the beautiful uniform of the national army. (Applause.) The

Doctor believed he would never disgrace it. (Applause, and waving of handkerchiefs by the ladies.)

"At the close of his address, Dr. Garnett said: 'Ladies and gentlemen, I take great pleasure in introducing to

you Lieutenant H. O. Flipper.' The Lieutenant rose and bowed low, his hands resting on the hilt of his sabre.

He said nothing. Mr. Douglass was introduced, but excused himself from speaking.

"Then Mr. James Crosby was called on. He said when the regiment in which he was orderly sergeant had

marched to Port Hudson, General met it, and said to Colonel Nelson: 'Colonel, what do you call these?' 'I

call them soldiers,' answered Colonel Nelson. 'Well, if these are soldiers, and if I've got to command niggers,

the government is welcome to my commission. Take them down to the right to General Payne. He likes

niggers.' 'Soon afterward,' added Mr. Crosby, 'occurred that terrible slaughter of the colored troops which you

all remember so well. This year Lieutenant Flipper and a nephew of Generalgraduated in the same class,

"After the addresses Lieutenant Flipper descended to the floor, and without formal introductions shook hands

with all. He had taken off his cavalry helmet while sitting on the stage. Lemonade and icecream were served

to the guests. About two hundred persons, all colored, were present. The Lieutenant will start for his home in

Georgia on Monday. He will join his regiment, the Tenth Cavalry, on the Rio Grande in November."

"Flipper has flopped up again, and seems to be decidedly in luck. He has been transferred to the Tenth

Cavalry, which is alluded to by a New Orleans paper as the 'Tenth Nubian Light Foot.' This, it seems to us, is

a dark hint as to the color of this gallant corps, but as the State of Texas lies somewhere between New

Orleans and the Rio Grande, we suppose the matter will be allowed to pass. But as to Flipper, Flipper has got

his regiment and he has had a reception at the hands of his colored friends and acquaintances in New York.

Common people are generally embarrassed at receptions given to themselves, but not so with Flipper. The

reception was exceedingly hightoned, as well as highly colored, and took place in the rooms of the 'Lincoln

Literary Musical Association.' Flipper, rigged out in full uniform, with a yellow horsehair plume flowing

felicitously over his cavalry helmet, sailed in, according to accounts, just as chipper and as pert as you please.

There was no lager beer handed around, but the familiar sound of the band, which was composed of a harp

and a violin, made its absence painfully apparent. There were few speeches, but the affair was decidedly

formal. When every thing was ready for business, a party of the name of Garnett rose and introduced Flipper,

and in the course of his remarks took occasion to attack the newlymade lieutenant by accusing him of

wearing 'the shadowed livery of the burnished sun.' Whereupon Flipper got up, placed his hands on the hilt of

his bloody sabre, and bowed. The crowd then shook hands all around, the music played, and lemonade and

icecream were brought out from their hidingplaces, and all went merry as the milkman's bell. As we said

before, Flipper is in luck. He is a distinguished. young man. He will reach home during the present week, and

it is to be hoped that his friends here are ready to give him an icecream lunch, or something of that kind."

"Lieutenant Flipper has, by his manly conduct and noble bearing, his superior intellectual powers shown his

fellowcadets and tutors that all the colored student wants is a 'chance.' His term of four years, his

graduation, his appointment, will all mark a new era in American history. That the 'feat' he has accomplished

is appreciated has been shown in too many ways to mention. His advent into New York City was marked by

many courtesies. His friends, not unmindful of his new field and position, tendered him a grand reception at

Lincoln Literary Hall on the 30th of June. It was the writer's good fortune to arrive at New York just in time

to be present and pay him similar honors with others. The hall was tastefully and beautifully decorated with

flowers and flags, representing the different States in the Union. At the appointed hour the distinguished

guests were seen gathering, filling the hall to its utmost capacity. Among the number we noticed especially

Dr. H. H. Garnett and Processor Reason. A few and appropriate remarks were made by Dr. Garnett as an

introduction, after him others followed. After these formal exercises were over, Mr. Flipper came down from

the rostrum and welcomed his friends by a hearty shake of the hand, then all supplied the wants of the inner

man by partaking of cream, cake, and lemonade, which were so bountifully supplied. The evening was

certainly a pleasant one, as delightful as one could wish, and I presume there was no one present who did not

enjoy himself. In addition to what has already been mentioned the occasion was still more enlivened by the

strains of sweet music. The exercises of the evening being concluded, the distinguished guests departed each

one for his home. Lieutenant Flipper spent some days in New York, and during this visit, as he tells me,

exSecretary Belknap sent him a written invitation to call on him. This he did, and was received very

cordially and congratulated on the victory achieved. He spoke of the pros and cons, and seemed anxious that

success might attend his footsteps in all the avenues of army life. That Belknap is interested in the young

soldier and desires his success I do not deny; but whether the exSecretary would have given him any

"'Flip's done come home!' was the familiar, and yet admiring manner in which the young negroes about town

yesterday spread the information that Second Lieutenant Henry O. Flipper, of the Tenth Cavalry, and the first

colored graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, had arrived. His coming has created

quite a sensation in colored circles, and when he appeared upon the streets, last evening, taking a drive with

his delighted father, he was the cynosure of all the colored people and the object of curious glances from the

whites. The young man had 'been there before,' however, and took all the ogling with patience and seeming

indifference. Once in awhile he would recognize an old acquaintance and greet him with a smile and a bow.

"The last number of Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper contains an excellent likeness of Flipper, dressed in

his cadet uniform. His features betray his intelligence, and indicate the culture which he has acquired by hard

study. His arrival here was the occasion of a buzz about the Union depot. His parents and a number of

intimate friends were present to receive him, and the scene was an interesting one to all concerned.

"'Dat's him!' said a dozen of the curious darkeys who stood off and hadn't the honor of the youth's

"'He's one ob de United States Gazettes!' shouted a young darkey, in reply to a query from a strange negro

"But the young officer was speedily spirited out of the crowd and taken home to his little bed for a rest.

"On the streets he was greeted by many of our citizens who knew him, and who have watched his career with

interest. His success was complimented, and he was urged to pursue his course in the same spirit hereafter.

Among his colored friends he was a lion, and they could not speak their praises in language strong enough.

"A darkey would approach the young man, cautiously, feel of his buttons and clothes, and enthusiastically

"These were the expressions of admiration that best suited the ideas of his delighted acquaintances. They will

give him a reception on Monday night next, at which all his friends will be present, and some of our leading

"We will try and give the young man's views and experiences in tomorrow's issue."

This paper is noted for its constant prevarication. Whatever it says about negroes is scarcely worth noticing,

for be it in their favor or not it is almost certainly untrue. My "delighted father" was not within three hundred

miles of Atlanta when I reached that place. I did not appear on the streets in uniform for several days after my

arrival, and then only at the request of many friends and an officer of the Second Infantry then at McPherson

"Lieutenant Flipper arrived in our city last week on a visit to his friends. His father lives in Thomasville, but

he was educated in this city. His intelligence and manly course has won for him the praise of even the

"We acknowledge the courtesy of an invitation to a reception given to Lieutenant H. O. Flipper of the Tenth

Cavalry, by his colored friends in Atlanta. Circumstances beyond our control prevented our attending.

"We are informed it was a pleasant affair, and that Lieutenant Flipper embraced the opportunity to give

something of his four years' experience at West Point, and to correct some of the misstatements of the Atlanta

Constitution concerning the treatment he received while a cadet at the Military Academy. An article alluding

to this subject has been crowded out this week, but will appear in our next issue.

"The Cincinnati Gazette says: 'Lieutenant Flipper, the young colored man who is guilty of having been

graduated with credit from West Point, continues to be the butt of Georgia Democratic journals.' We would

like to know where the Gazette gets its information. Flipper has been treated with nothing but kindness in

Georgia. Wherever he has reviewed the colored military, accounts of the reviews have been published, but we

have yet to see a single word in a Georgia paper in disparagement or ridicule of the colored graduate."

"Last night the colored people of the city gave a 'reception' to Flipper, of the United States Army. They did

this from a feeling of pride over the fact that one of their color, a townsman, had succeeded in attaining his

rank. They doubtless, little suspected that he would make such use of the occasion as he did. More than one

of them so expressed their feeling before The evening ended. The relations between the races in this city have

for years been such as to make remarks like those in which Flipper indulged not only uncalled for, but really

"The crowd that gathered in the hall on the corner of Mitchell and Broad Streets was large. It was composed

almost entirely of welldressed and orderly colored people. There were present several of the white male and

female teachers of the negro schools; also, some of our white citizens occupying back seats, who were drawn

"Flipper was dressed lavishly in regimentals and gold cord, and sat upon the stage with his immense and

ponderous cavalry sabre tightly buckled around him. He had the attitude of Wellington or Grant at a council

of war. He was introduced to the audience by J. O. Wimbish, a hightoned negro politician (as was) of this

city, who bespattered the young warrior with an eulogy such as no schoolmaster would have written for less

He arose with martial mien, and his left hand resting on his sabre hilt. He said:

"'Some weeks ago he had been called upon at a reception in New York to make a speech, but he had

reminded the gentleman who called upon him that he had been taught to be a soldier and not an orator. While

upon this occasion he still maintained that lie was not an orator, yet he would tell them something of his

career at West Point. He referred to his colored predecessors in the Academy and their fates, particularly of

Smith, whose last year there was his (F.'s) first. During that year, on Smith's account, he had received his

worst treatment at the Academy. Prejudice against us was strong there at that time. During his first

encampment he had a better time than almost any man in his class. In 1874 Smith left, and a rumor prevailed

that he (F ) was afraid to stay and was going to resign. Colonel Upton, the commandant, sent for him to his

house, told him not to do so, but to stick it out. Of course he had no intention of resigning, and he followed

this superfluous advice. So far as the cadets were concerned they always treated me fairly, would speak to

me, and some came to my room and talked with me, but the only thing they did that was wrong, perhaps, was

that they would not associate with me openly. The officers always treated me as well as they did any other

cadet. All these reports about my bad treatment there, especially in Southern newspapers, are absolutely false.

"'I will read and comment upon some of these articles. In The Constitution of last Saturday it said I had the

hardest four years of any cadet who ever passed through the Academy. That is in some respects true, but not

wholly so. Speaking of Ben Butler's son, I am proud to say that among the three hundred cadets I hadn't a

better friend than the son of the Massachusetts statesman. (Applause.) As to Mr Bigelow's son, mentioned

here, I know him well, and his whole familyhis father, the distinguished exSecretary of State, his mother

and his two sisters, and have met them at their home. Mrs. Bigelow, recognizing my position, and thinking to

"He then commented on articles from Beecher's Christian Union, the New York Tribune, Harper's Weekly,

and the New York Telegram, characterizing many of their statements about himself as false.

"The article last named was about social equality in the army. Flipper said that he was cordially met by the

army officers in Chattanooga. In return he paid his respects to the commandant and was introduced and

"'How it is here you have all seen as I walked about the city. I have walked with the officers of the garrison

here several times today, even up and down Whitehall Street, and one of them invited me into Schumann's

drug store, and had a glass of soda together. I know it is not a usual thing to sell to colored people, but we got

it. (Laughter and applause.) And tonight as Mr. J. O. Wimbish and myself were coming to the hall, we met

with one of the officers at the corner, and went into Schumann's again. We called for sodawater, and got it

again! (Applause.) And I called at the barracks, through military courtesy, and paid my respects to the

commandant. I understand that the officers there have had my case under consideration, and have

unanimously agreed that I am a graduate of the national Academy, and hold a commission similar to their

own, and am entitled to the same courtesy as any other officer. I have been invited to visit them at their

quarters tomorrow. These things show you something of social equality in the army, and when this happens

with officers who have lived in the South, and had opportunity to be tainted with Southern feeling, I expect

still less trouble from this source when I reach my regiment and among officers who have not lived in the

South and had occasion to be tainted in this way. The gentlemen of the army are generally better educated

"He spoke of his graduation and of the applause with which he was greeted. He closed by thanking his

"Then Flipper was escorted upon the floor, and the announcement was made that all who desired could now

"The first man to receive this distinguished honor was George Thomas, the Assistant United States Attorney.

He was followed closely by several Northern schoolmarms and teachers, and a host of the colored people.

I pass over the preceding article with the silent contempt it deserves. Some of the papers commented upon it.

"The Atlanta Constitution, true to principle, comes out in a slanderous attack upon Lieutenant Flipper. In its

issue of Tuesday, July 10th, it calls him a fraud. Would to heaven we had ten thousand such frauds in Georgia

"It takes exception, too, to the manner in which the colored lieutenant appeared at the reception given by the

colored people in his honor. He was 'lavishly dressed in full regimentals,' it says, 'with gold cord. He sat upon

the stage with his massive and ponderous sword, looking like Wellington or Grant in war council. He made

"Now we (that is I, this individual, Mr. Editor, for I would not assume your grand editorial pronoun) should

like to know how the Constitution would have the young officer dress. Surely it was entirely proper and

becoming that he should appear in full regimental cap, coat, boots, spurs, and all, full fledged, just as he

"In the first place it was a novel sight for the colored people. Surely the Constitution would not rob us of the

privilege and pleasure of seeing in full military costume the first and only one of our race who has been

"In regard to the ostentatious manner in which the lieutenant conducted himself on that evening, nothing

could be further from the truth. In fact, the general comment of the evening by both black and white was on

"It is not strange, however, that the Constitution, whose judgment and sense of right and justice have been

perverted through years of persistent sinning, should see things in a different light.

"The 'uncalled for and distasteful' remarks were doubtless those made in regard to the fact that Northern

people coming into contact with Southern prejudice are tainted by it, and that West Pointers are generally

better educated than the Southern people. Of course this would stir up the wrath of the Constitution; for what

Lieutenant Flipper would have shown better sense if he had not made any speech at Atlanta. But if he was to

make any speech at all upon the subject of his treatment at West Point, it could scarcely be expected that he

should make one more modest, manly and sensible than that which is reported in our news columns."

"J. C. Freeman, the only white man in Georgia that ever disgraced the military of the United States, was in

the city yesterday. It will be remembered that this individual at one time misrepresented this district in

Congress, and during that time he appointed one negro by color, and Flipper by name, to West Point. But

then, nevertheless, the negro is as good as he is, and better too, and we have no doubt but what Freeman

thinks he did a big thing, but the good people of the State think different. This notice is not paid for."

"The following is the way the Southerners solidify their sectionthat is, it is one waythe other, being the

"'Lieutenant Flipper, the colored cadet, is in Macon, and the darkies there think him a bigger man that

General Grant. They'll want him to be President after awhile, and the Northern people will then be the first to

The article of social equality referred to was clipped from the New York Evening Telegram. It is as follows:

"There is no danger of negro equality, oh no! But it will be so delightful for the white soldier to be

commanded to pace the greensward before the tent of Lieutenant Flipper, the negro graduate of West Point,

and the white soldier will probably indulge in a strange train of thought while doing it. And when promotion

comes, and the negro becomes Majah Flippah, or Colonel Flippah, the prospects of the white captains and

lieutenants will be so cheerful, particularly if they have families and are stationed at some post in the far

West, where any neglect in the social courtesies toward their superior officer would probably go hard with

To go back to the article "Flying Around Flipper," I want to say the white people of Georgia can claim no

credit for any part of my education. The Storrs school was not a public school at the time I went to school

there. It did not become such until I went to West Point. The Atlanta University receives $8000 per annum

From the State of Georgia in lieu of the share of the agricultural land scrip due to the colored people for

educational purposes. Efforts have been made to take even this from the university, but all have been failures.

"On Monday evening the colored companies of the city had a battalion parade and review.

"The three companies, viz., the Lincoln Guards, the Bibb County Blues, and the Central City Light Infantry,

formed on Fourth Street, and to martial music marched up Mulberry to First, down First to Walnut, up

"On the right of the line were the Light Infantry under Captain W. H. DeLyons. The Blues bore the colors,

and were commanded by Spencer Moses, Captain, and the Guards supported the extreme left. T. N. M.

Sellers, Captain of the Lincoln Guards, acted as major. After some preliminary movements the troops were

inspected by Lieutenant Flipper, the colored graduate of West Point. The troops then marched around the

"The line was again formed, and the major addressed Lieutenant Flipper in a short speech, in which was

"Lieutenant Flipper replied in a few very sensible and appropriate remarks: That he wished all success, honor,

and thanks to the companies for their kindness and courtesy. Hoped they would all make soldiers and tight for

their country. That he was a soldier rather than a speaker. That he had tried to do his duty at West Point, and

that he expected to continue to try to do his duty, and 'again thanking you for your hospitality, kindness, and

"After the speaking there was a general handshaking. The entire parade was very creditable indeed, showing

considerable proficiency in the tactics, and was witnessed by a large crowd of about twelve hundred of whites

"This is the first review ever held by the colored troops in the city of Macon. About eighty men rank and file

were out. The colors used was the United States flag. The uniforms were tasty and well gotten up."

There was a very scurrilous article in one of the Charleston (S.C.) papers. I have not been able to get it. I am

informed that after commenting on my graduation, assignment, etc., it indulged in much speculation as to my

future. It told how I would live, be treated, etc., how I would marry, beget "little Flippers," and rear them up

to "don the army blue," and even went far enough to predict their career. It was a dirty piece of literature, and

"At length a colored youth has overcome the difficulties that surrounded him as a student at the West Point

Military Academy, and has graduated, with the respect of his white associates who were at first very much

opposed to him. Mr. Flipper, the successful young man is a Georgia boy, and was appointed a cadet to West

Point from the Fifth Congressional Districtthe Atlanta Districtby Congressman Freeman, we believe.

He was raised by Rev. Frank Quarles, of this city, and is regarded by him almost as a son.

"John F. Quarles, Esq., the son of Rev. Frank Quarles, is spending a few days with his father. Mr. J. F.

Quarles was educated in Pennsylvania since the war, and returned to Georgia in 1870. He read law and was

admitted to the Augusta bar after a careful examination before three of the ablest lawyers at that bar, which is

noted for its talent. He passed a very creditable examination, and is, we believe, the only colored man who

has been admitted to the Georgia bar. He was soon after appointed consul to Port Mahon, in the

Mediterranean Sea, and served with credit until he was legislated of office by the Democratic Congress.

Here, too, is a venerable colored man claiming the honor of having raised me. Why, I never was away from

my mother and father ten consecutive hours in my life until I went to West Point. It is possible, nay, very

probable, that he jumped me on his knee, or boxed me soundly for some of my childish pranks, but as to

Before leaving West Point the following communications were sent me from the headquarters of the Liberia

Exodus Association, 10 Mary Street, Charleston S.C. I replied in very courteous terms that I was opposed to

the whole scheme, and declined to have any thing to do with it. I was in Charleston later in the year, and

while there I was besieged by some of the officers of the association, who had not yet despaired of making

me "Generalissimo of Liberia's Army," as one of them expressed himself. Wearied of their importunities, and

having no sympathy with the movement, I published the following in the Charleston News and Courier:

"Lieutenant Flipper, of the Tenth United States Cavalry, the newly fledged colored West Pointer, has

something to say on the question of the Liberian Exodus, which will be interesting to the people of his race.

The lieutenant, by his creditable career as a cadet at the Military Academy, has certainly earned the right to

be heard by the colored population with at least as much respect and attention as has been given to the very

"'SIR: A rumor has come to me from various sources, to the effectthat I have promised to resign my

commission in the army after serving the two years required by law, and to then accept another as General

"'It has also come to my notice that many, particularly in the counties adjoining Georgia, are being persuaded,

"'I shall consider it no small favor if you will state that there is no law requiring me to serve two years, that I

never authorized any such statement as here made, that I have no sympathy whatever for the "Liberian

Exodus" movement, that I give it neither countenance nor support, but will oppose it whenever I feel that the

occasion requires it. I am not at all disposed to flee from one shadow to grasp at anotherfrom the supposed

error of Hayes's Southern policy to the prospective glory of commanding Liberia's army.

"'HENRY O. FLIPPER, "'Second Lieutenant Tenth U. S. Cavalry. "'CHARLESTON, S.C., October 19,

DEAR FRIEND AND BROTHER: Your future, as foreshadowed by the press of this country, looks dismal

enough. We have conned its remarks with mingled feelings of sympathy and exultation. Exultation! because

we believe fate has something higher and better in store for you than they or you ever dreamed. Inclosed

please find copy of a letter to the Honorable the Secretary of State. We have not yet received a reply. Also,

inclosed, a number of the Missionary Record containing the call referred to. We have mentioned you in our

note to His Excellency Anthony Gardner, President of Liberia. Please communicate with us and say if this

letter and inclosures do not open up a bright vista in the future to your imagination and reasonable

aspirations? We picture to ourselves our efforts to obtain a line of steamers crowned with success; and behold

you as commanderinchief organizing and marshalling Liberia's military forces in the interests of humanity

at large, and the especial development of a grand African nationality that shall command the respect of the

So Afric shall resume her seat in the Hall of Nations vast; And strike upon her restrung lyre The requiem of

the past: And sing a song of thanks to God, For his great mercy shown, In leading, with an outstretched arm,

Provide yourself at once with maps, etc., master the chorography of Africa in general, and the topography of

Liberia in particular, that is to say, the whole range of the Kong mountains, including its eastern slope on to

the Niger, our natural boundary! for the next thirty years! after that, onward! Cultivate especially the artillery

branch of the service; this is the arm with which we can most surely overawe all thought of opposition among

the native tribes; whilst military engineering will dot out settlements with forts, against which, they will see,

'twould be madness to hurl themselves. We desire to absorb and cultivate them. The great obstacle to this is

their refusal to have their girls educated. This results from their institution of polygamy. Slavery is the same

the world overit demands the utter ignorance of its victims. We must compel their enlightenment. Have we

not said enough? Does not your intelligence grasp, and your ambition spring to the great work? Let us hear

from you. You can be a great power in assisting to carry out our Exodus. If you desire we will elect you a

member of our council and keep you advised of our proceedings. We forward you by this mail some of our

numbers and the Charleston News of the 20th. See the article on yourself, and let it nerve you to thoughts and

deeds of greatness. Let us know something about Baker and McClennan. Are they at Annapolis? Cadets?

(We will require a navy as well as an army.) Also something about yourself. What part of the State are you

P. S.We have received a reply from the Secretary of Statevery courteous in its tonebut "regrets" to

say that he has "no special means of forming an opinion upon the subject. The measure referred to would

require an Act of Congress, in respect to whose future proceedings it would not be prudent to venture a

The answer is all we expected. We have made ourselves known to, and are recognized by, the Executive; our

next step is to address Senators Morton and Blaine Hon. R. H. Cain will see to it, that the question is

Rooms OF THE LIBERIA EXODUS ASSOCIATION, 10 MARY STREET, CHARLESTON, S.C. June 14,

Sir: Inclosed please find a call on our people to prepare to organize for an exodus to Liberia.

We think it explains itself, but any further explanation called for we will gladly supply.

In the event of a sufficient response to our call, please inform us if there is any probability of our government

placing one or more steamers on the route between here, or Port Royal, and Liberia for our transportation;

and if so, then the charge for passage; and if, to those unable to pay ready money, time will be given, and the

Tens of thousands are now eager to go from this State alone, but we want a complete exodus, if possible,

from the whole United States; thus leaving you a homogeneous people, opening up an immense market for

your products, giving a much required impetus to your trade, commerce, and manufactures; and for ourselves

attaining a position where, removed from under the shade of a "superior race," we will have full opportunity

for developing whatever capacity of soul growth our Creator has endowed us with.

That Africa will be developed, and chiefly through the instrumentality of its five millions of descendants in

America, is certain. Now the question is, who shall have the chief handling and consequent benefit of this

grand instrument, next to itself, of course, for we are treating of a sentient instrumentality. We beseech you

that you do not send us, Columbuslike, from court to court offering the development of a new world to

incredulous ears. We are asking the President of Liberia, the American Colonization Society, and all friends

We desire to carry our first shipment of emigrants not later than September or October proximo.

Here is an article from some paper in New Orleans. Contempt is all it deserves. I am sure all my readers will

"With the successful examination of the colored cadet Flipper, at West Point, and his appearance in the

gazette as a fullfledged lieutenant of cavalry, the long vexed question has been settled just as it ceased to be

a question of any practical import. Out of three or four experiments Flipper is the one success. As the whole

South has now passed into Democratic control, and the prospect for Southern Republican congressmen is

small, the experiments will hardly be repeated, and he must stand for those that might have been.

"It would be interesting to know how Flipper is to occupy his time. The usual employments of young

lieutenants are of a social nature, such as leading the German at Narraganset Pier and officiating in select

private theatricals in the great haunts of Fashion. Flipper is described as a little bowlegged grif of the most

darkly coppery hue, and of a general pattern that even the most enthusiastic would find it hard to adopt.

Flipper is not destined to uphold the virtues and graces of his color in the salons of Boston and New York,

then, nor can he hope to escape the disagreeably conspicuous solitude he now inhabits among his

fellowofficers through any of those agencies of usage and familiarity which would result if other Flippers

were to follow him into the army and help to dull the edge of the innovation. Just what Flipper is to do with

himself does not seem altogether clear. Even the excitement of leading his men among the redskins will be

denied him, now that Spotted Tail has pacified the malcontents and Sitting Bull has retired to the Canadas. It

is to be presumed that those persons who patronized Flipper and had him sent to West Point are gratified at

the conclusion, and there is a sort of reason for believing that Flipper himself is contented with the lot he has

accepted; but whether the experiment is worth all the annoyance it occasions is a problem not so easily

"His prospects don't appear to be very brilliant as regards social delights or domestic enjoyments, but of

course that is Flipper's business not ours. It merely struck us that things had happened a little unfortunately

for him, to become the lonesome representative of his race in the midst of associations that object to him and

at a time when the supply of colored officers is permanently cut off. Personally we are not interested in

"We had a call yesterday from Lieutenant H. O. Flipper, of the United States Army. Mr. Flipper, it will be

remembered, is the colored cadet who graduated at the Military Academy at West Point last session,

occupying in his class a position that secured his appointment to the cavalry service, a mark of distinction. He

was gazetted as second lieutenant in the Tenth Cavalry, and he enjoys the honor of being the first colored

man who has passed by all the regular channels into an official station in the army.

"This young officer is a bright mulatto, tall and soldierly, with a quiet unobtrusive manner, and the bearing of

a gentleman. As the forerunner of his race in the position he occupies, he is placed in a delicate and trying

situation, a fact which he realizes. He remarked that he knew it was one of the requirements of an officer of

the army to be a gentleman, a man of honor and integrity under all circumstances, and he hoped to be equal to

his duties in this regard. He goes on to Fort Concho to join his regiment, which is likely to have work to do

"We bespeak for this young officer the just consideration to which the difficulties of his position entitle him."

I was originally ordered to Fort Concho, but at Houston, Texas I met my lieutenantcolonel, who informed

me that My company was en route to Fort Sill. My orders were then changed, and I proceeded to Sill.

"The Age yesterday had a call from Henry O. Flipper second lieutenant Tenth United States Cavalry, who is

on his way under orders to join his regiment at Fort Concho. So far there is nothing very unusual in this item,

but interest will be given to it when we add that Lieutenant Flipper is the first colored graduate of West Point.

He went to the institution from Georgia, and graduated last June, fiftyfifth in a class of seventysix. There is

a preponderance of white blood in his veins, and in general appearance, except for color, he is a perfect image

of Senator Plumb of Kansas. He reports that since he has struck the South he has been treated like a

gentleman, which is something different from his experience in the North. He made the acquaintance of

Senator Maxey at West Point the Senator himself being a graduate of the Academyand regards him as a

very pleasant gentleman. During the ten minutes he spent in the Age editorial rooms several prominent

democrats of the city called to see and shake hands with him, partly out of curiosity to see the colored cadet

who was so bitterly persecuted by Northern students at West Point, and partly to bid him a welcome to the

South such as none of his political party friends would have thought of giving him in the North. Before many

Wherever I have travelled in the South it has been thrown into my face that the Southern people had, would,

and did treat me better than the Northern people. This is wholly untrue. It is true that the men generally speak

kindly and treat me with due courtesy, but never in a single instance has a Southern man introduced me to his

wife or even invited me to his house. It was done North in every place I stopped. In many cases, when invited

to visit gentlemen's residences, they have told me they wanted their wives to meet me. A distinguished New

York lady, whose name has occurred in print several times with mine, gave me with her own hands a

handsome floral tribute, just after receiving my diploma. During five months' stay in the South, after my

graduation, not a single Southern white woman spoke to me. I mistake. I did buy some articles from one who

kept a bookstore in a country town in Georgia. This is the only exception. This is the way Southern people

treated me better than Northern people. The white people (men) of Houston, Texas, showed me every

possible courtesy while I was there. My treatment there was in high and honorable contrast to that I received

Here are two articles that have a few words to say about me. I adopt and quote them at length:

"The examinations of the boys in the national school have become an object of national interest this year

more than any other, simply because there is a stagnation of other news. While the public is waiting for an

outbreak from Kars or the new party, it has leisure to look into the condition of these incipient officers. Hence

reporters have crowded to West Point, the Board of Visitors and cadets have both been quickened to

unwonted zeal by the consciousness of the blaze of notoriety upon them, and the country has read with

satisfaction each morning of searching examinations and sweeping cavalry charges, giving a shrug however,

at the enthusiastic recommendation of certain members of the board that the number of yearly appointments

should be doubled or quadrupled. In this cold ague of economy with which the nation is attacked just now,

and which leaves old army officers unpaid for a disagreeably long time, the chances of any addition to the

flock in the nest are exceedingly small. In fact, while the average American in war time recognized the utility

of a trained band of tacticians, he is apt to grumble at their drain upon his pocket in piping times of peace.

Only last year he relieved himself in Congress and elsewhere by a good deal of portentous talking as to the

expediency of doing away with the naval and military free schools altogether. He has, in short, pretty much

the opinion of the army officer that Hodge has of his parish priest, 'useful enough for Sundays and funerals,

"This opinion, no doubt, appears simply ludicrous and vulgar to the gallant young fellows who are being

trained for their country's service up the Hudson, and who already look upon themselves as its supports and

bulwarks, but there is a substratum of commonsense in it which we commend to their consideration,

because, if for no other reason, that the average American is the man who pays their bills and to whom they

owe their education and future livelihood. If they do not accept his idea of the conduct and motives of action

by which they may properly repay him the debt they owe, it certainly is fitting that their own idea should be

indisputably a higher one. We begin to doubt whether it is not much lower. The country, in establishing this

school, simply proposed to train a band of men skilled to serve it when needed as tacticians, engineers, or

disciplinarians; the more these men founded their conduct on the bases of good sense, honor, and republican

principles, the better and higher would be their service. The idea of the boys themselves, however, within

later years, seems to be that they constitute an aristocratic class (moved by any thing but republican

principles) entitled to lay down their own laws of goodbreeding and honor. Accounts which reach us of their

hazing, etc., and notably their treatment of the colored cadets, show that these notions are quite different from

those accepted elsewhere. Now such ideas would be natural in pupils of the great French or Austrian military

schools, where admission testifies to high rank by birth or to long, patient achievement on the part of the

student. But really our boys at West Point must remember that they belong to a nation made up of working

and trades men; that they are the sons of just such people; that the colored laborer helps to pay for their

support as well as that of the representative of his race who sits beside them. Furthermore, they have done

nothing as yet to entitle them to assume authority in such matters. They have recited certain lessons, learned

to drill and ride, and to wear their clothes with precision; but something more is needed. The knight of old

was skilled in gentleness and fine courtesy to the weak and unfortunate as well as in horsemanship. It was his

"It is not as trifling a matter as it seems that these young fellows should thus imbibe mistaken ideas of their

own position or the requirements of real manliness and goodbreeding. The greatest mistakes in the war were

in consequence of just such defects in some of our leading officers, and the slaughter of the Indians in the

South West upon two occasions proceeded from their inability to recognize the rights of men of a different

color from themselves. Even in trifles, however, such matters follow the rule of inexorable justiceas, for

instance, in this case of Cadet Flipper, who under ordinary circumstances might have passed without notice,

but is now known from one end of the country to the other as a credit to his profession in scholarship, pluck,

and real dignity; while his classmates are scarcely mentioned, though higher in rank, except in relation to

"WEST POINT, August 29.In my earnest desire to do justice to the grand ball last night I neglected to

mention the arrival of the new colored candidate for admission into the United States, Military Academy,

although I saw him get off at the steamboat lauding and was a witness to the supreme indifference with which

he was treated, save by a few personal friends. Minnie passed the physical examination easily, for he is a

healthy mulatto. Whether this stern Alma Mater will matriculate him is still a question. It is really

astonishing, and perhaps alarming, in view of the enthusiastic endeavors of the Republican party to confer

upon the colored race all the rights and privileges of citizens of the United States, to see with what lofty

contempt every candidate for academic honors who is in the slightest degree 'off color,' is received. As you

are aware, there is at present a colored, or partly colored, cadet in the Freshman ClassWhittaker by name.

This poor young mulatto is completely ostracized not only by West Point society, but most thoroughly by the

corps of cadets itself. Flipper got through all right, and, strange to say, the cadets seem to have a certain kind

of respect for him, although he was the darkest 'African' that has yet been seen among the West Point cadets.

Flipper had remarkable pluck and nerve, and was accorded his parchmentwell up on the list, tooat last

"A most surprising fact is that not one of the cadets and I think I might safely include the professors

tries to dissemble his animosity for the black, mulatto, or octoroon candidate. When I asked a cadet today

some questions concerning the treatment of Cadet Whittaker by the corps, he said : 'Oh, we get along very

well, sir. The cadets simply ignore him, and he understands very well that we do not intend to associate with

him.' This cadet and several others were asked whether Minnie, if admitted, would also be ostracized socially.

Their only answer was: 'Certainly; that is well understood by all. We don't associate with these men, but they

have all the rights that we have nevertheless.' I asked if he knew whether Whittaker attended the ball last

night. The cadet said he didn't see him at the ball, but that he might have been looking on from the front

stoop! 'How does this young man Whittaker usually amuse himself when the rest of the boys are at play?' I

asked. 'Well, we don't get much play, and I think that Whittaker has as much as he can do to attend to his

studies. He managed to pull through at last examination, but I doubt if he ever graduates,' was the reply.

Meeting another cadet to whom I had been introduced I asked what he had heard of the prospects of the new

colored candidate, Minnie. 'I haven't heard any thing, but I hope he won't get through,' said the cadet. Another

cadet who stood near said that the case of Flipper, who graduated so successfully, was an exceptional one.

Flipper didn't care for any thing except to graduate, but he was confident that these other colored cadets

would fail. So far as I have been able to ascertain, the Faculty have never attempted to prevent the colored

cadets from having an equal chance with their white fellows. In fact under the present management it would

I can't let this article pass without quoting a few words from a letter I have from Whittaker, now at West

"I have been treated bully since I came in from camp (of summer of '77). Got only one 'skin' last month

(Deccember, '77). I am still under '' (tactical officer), and he treats me bully; he wanted to have a man

courtmartialled, when we were in camp, for refusing to close up on me. One day a corporal put me in the

rear rank when there were plebes in the front rank, andtold him if any such act ever occurred again he

would have him and the file confined to the guardhouse. He has never 'skinned' me since you left. He is

O.K. towards me, and the others are afraid of him . . . . As I am sitting in my room on third floor, sixth 'div,' a

kind of sadness creeps over me, for I am all alone. Minnie went home on last Friday. He was weighed in the

'math' scale and found wanting. The poor fellow did not study his 'math' and could not help being 'found.' He

was treated fairly and squarely, but he did not study. I did all I could to help and encourage him, but it was all

in vain. He did not like(an instructor) very much, and a carelessness seized him, which resulted in his

dismissal. I was sorry to see him go away, and he himself regretted it very much. He saw his great error only

when it was too late. On the day he left he told me that he did not really study a 'math' lesson since he

entered; and was then willing to give any thing to remain and redeem himself. He had a very simple subject

on examination, and when he came back he told me that he had not seen the subject for some two or three

weeks before, and he, consequently, did not know what to put on the board. All he had on it was wrong, and

The World reporter seems to be as ignorant as some of the others. I was by no means the "darkest 'African'

that has yet been seen among the West Point cadets." Howard, who reported in 1870 with Smith, was

unadulterated, as also were Werle and White, who reported in 1874. There were others who were also darker

The Brooklyn Eagle is more generous in its views. It proposes to utilize me. See what it says:

"Probably Lieutenant Flipper could be made much more useful than as a target for Indian bullets, if our

government would withdraw him from the army and place him in some colored college, where he could teach

the pupils engineering, so that when they reach Africa they could build bridges, railroads, etc."

I have had considerable correspondence with an army officer, a stranger to me, on this subject of being

detailed at some college. He is of opinion it would be best for me. I could not agree with him. After I joined

my company an effort (unknown to me) was made by the Texas Mechanical and Agricultural College to have

me detailed there. It was published in the papers that I had been so detailed. I made some inquiries, learned of

the above statements, and that the effort had completely failed. Personally I'd rather remain with my

company. I have no taste and no tact for teaching. I would decline any such appointment.

"Wm. Flipper, the colored cadet, has graduated at West Point and been commissioned as a second lieutenant

of cavalry in the United States Army. He is the first colored individual who ever held a commission in the

army, and it remains to be seen how the thing will work. Flipper's father resides here, and is a firstclass boot

and shoe maker. A short time back he stated that he had no idea his son would be allowed to graduate, but he

"Lieutenant Henry O. Flipper of the United States Army is spending a few days here with his father's family,

he has been on the streets very little, spending most of his time at home. He wears an undress uniform and

deports himself, so far as we have heard, with perfect propriety. This we believe he has done since his

graduation, with the exception of his unnecessary and uncalledfor criticisms on the Southern people in his

Atlanta speech. He made a mistake there; one which his sense and education ought to teach him not to repeat.

Not that it would affect our people, or that they care about it, but for his own good."*

*In all the places I visited after graduation I was treated with the utmost respect and courtesy except in

Atlanta. The white people, with one exception, didn't notice me at all. All foreigners treated me with all due

consideration. One young man, whom I knew many years, who has sold me many an article, and awaited my

convenience for his pay, and who met me in New York, and walked and talked with me, hung his head and

turned away from me, just as I was about to address him on a street in Atlanta. Again and again have I passed

and repassed acquaintances on the streets without any sign of recognition, even when I have addressed them.

Whenever I have entered any of their stores for any purpose, they have almost invariably "gotten off" some

stuff about attempts on the part of the authorities at West Point to "freeze me out," or about better treatment

from Southern boys than from those of the North. That is how they treated me in Atlanta, although I had lived

there over fourteen years, and was known by nearly every one in the city. In Thomasville, Southwest, Ga.,

where I was born, and which I had not seen for eighteen years, I was received and treated by the whites

That "undress uniform" was a "cit" suit of blue Cheviot. The people there, like those in Atlanta, don't seem to

know a black button from a brass one, or a civilian suit from a military uniform.

Lieutenant H. O. Flipper, the colored graduate of West Point, was entertained in style at Tully's, King Street,

Tuesday night. The hosts were a colored organization called tile Amateur Literary and Fraternal Association,

which determined that the lieutenant who will leave this city today to join his regiment, the Tenth Cavalry,

now in Texas, should not do so without some evidence of their appreciation of him personally, and of the fact

that he had reflected credit on their race by passing through the National Academy. Over forty persons were

at the entertainment, to whom the lieutenant was presented by A. J. Ransier, the colored exmember of

Congress. The lieutenant responded briefly, as he has invariably done, and expressed his warm thanks for the

courtesy shown by the association. A number of sentiments were offered and speeches made, and the evening

passed off very agreeably to all, especially so to the recipient of the hospitality.

"Lieutenant Flipper expects to start today for Texas. While he has been in this city he has made friends with

"The Amateur Literary and Fraternal Association, of which A. J. Ransier is the President, learning that

Lieutenant Flipper, of the United States Cavalry, was preparing to depart to the position assigned him on duty

on the plains in Texas, at once determined to give him a reception, and for this purpose the following

committee was appointed to arrange the details and programme for an entertainment: J. N. Gregg, W. H.

"The arrangements were made, and the members of the association and invited guests to the number of some

forty, of the most respectable colored people of Charleston, met last night at Tully's Hall, King Street, where

a bounteous feast was prepared for the occasion. The guest, Lieutenant Flipper, soon arrived, and was

introduced to the party, and, in the course of time, all sat down at the table, upon which was spread the most

palatable dishes which the king caterer of Charleston could prepare. This was vigorously attacked by all.

"Wines were then brought on, and speechmaking introduced as a set off. A. J. Ransier, in one of his usual

pleasant speeches, introduced Lieutenant Flipper, paying him a deserved tribute for his success in the

"Lieutenant Flipper, in a brief and courteous speech, acknowledged the compliment, and thanked the

association for the kind attention paid him, promising them that in his future career in the army of his country

"W. H. Birney next responded in eloquent terms to the toast, 'The State of South Carolina.' J. N. Gregg was

called upon, and responded in a wise and discreet manner to the toast of 'The Future of the Colored Man in

this Country.' 'The Press' and 'Woman' were next respectively toasted, and responded to by Ransier and F. A.

Carmand. Other speeches were made by C. C. Leslie, J. J. Connor, and others, and at a late hour the party

retired, after a most pleasant evening's enjoyment. Lieutenant Flipper leaves for Texas tomorrow."

Before closing my narrative I desire to perform a very pleasant duty. I sincerely believe that all my success at

West Point is due not so much to my perseverance and general conduct there as to the early moral and mental

training I received at the hands of those philanthropic men and women who left their pleasant homes in the

North to educate and elevate the black portion of America's citizens, and that, too, to their own discomfort

and disadvantage. How they have borne the sneers of the Southern press, the ostracism from society in the

South, the dangers of Kuklux in remote counties, to raise up a downtrodden race, not for personal

aggrandizement, but for the building up and glory of His kingdom who is no respecter of persons, is surely

worthy our deepest gratitude, our heartfelt thanks, and our prayers and blessing. Under the training of a good

Christian old lady, too old for the work, but determined to give her mite of instruction, I learned to read and

to cipher this in 1866. From her I was placed under control of a younger person, a man. From him I passed

to the control of another lady at the famous "Storr's School." I remained under her for two years more or less,

when I passed to the control of another lady in what was called a Normal School. From here I went to the

Atlanta University, and prepared for the college course, which in due time I took up. This course of training

was the foundation of all my aftersuccess. The discipline, which I learned to heed, because it was good, has

been of incalculable benefit to me. It has restrained and shaped my temper on many an occasion when to have

yielded to it would have been ruin. It has regulated my acts when to have committed them as I contemplated

would have been base unmanliness. And it has made my conduct in all cases towards others generous,

courteous, and Christian, when it might otherwise have been mean, base, and degrading. It taught me to be

The mindtraining has been no less useful. Its thoroughness, its completeness, and its variety made me more

than prepared to enter on the curriculum of studies prescribed at West Point. A less thorough, complete, or

varied training would never have led to the success I achieved. I was not prepared expressly for West Point.

How my heart looks back and swells with gratitude to these trainers of my youth! My gratitude is deeply felt,

but my ability to express it is poor. May Heaven reward them with long years of happiness and usefulness

here, and when this life is over, and its battles won, may they enter the bright portals of heaven, and at His

JAMES WEBSTER SMITH, a native of South Carolina, was appointed to a cadetship at the United States

Military Academy at West Point, New York, in 1870, by the Hon. S. L. Hoge. He reported, as instructed, at

the Military Academy in the early summer of 1870, and succeeded in passing the physical and intellectual

examination prescribed, and was received as a "conditional cadet." At the same time one Howard reported,

In complexion Smith was rather light, possibly an octoroon. Howard, on the contrary, was black. Howard had

been a student at Howard University, as also had been Smith. Smith, before entering the Academy, had

graduated at the Hartford High School, and was well prepared to enter upon the new course of studies at West

In studies he went through the first year's course without any difficulty, but unfortunately an affaire

d'honneura "dipper fight"caused him to be put back one year in his studies. In going over this course

again he stood very high in his class, but when it was finished he began going down gradually until he

became a member of the last section of his class, an "immortal," as we say, and in constant danger of being

He continued his course in this part of his class till the end of his second class year, when he was declared

deficient in natural and experimental philosophy, and dismissed. At this time he had been in the Academy

four years, but had been over only a threeyears' course, and would not have graduated until the end of the

As to his trials and experiences while a cadet, I shall permit him to speak. The following articles embrace a

series of letters written by him, after his dismissal, to the New National Era and Citizen, the political organ of

"SIR: I saw an article yesterday in one of our local papers, copied from the Brooklyn Argus, concerning my

dismissal from the Military Academy. The article referred to closes as follows: 'Though he has written letters

to his friends, and is quite sanguine about returning and finally graduating, the professors and cadets say there

is not the slightest chance. Said a professor to a friend, the other day: "It will be a long time before any one

"Now, Sir, I would like to ask a few questions through the columns of your paper concerning these

statements, and would be glad to have them answered by some of the knowing ones.

"In the first place, what do the professors and cadets know of my chances for getting back, and if they know

any thing, how did they find it out? At an interview which I had with the Secretary of War, on the 17th

instant, he stated that he went to West Point this year for a purpose, and that he was there both before and

after my examination, and conversed with some of the professors concerning me. Now, did that visit and

those conversations have any thing to do with the finding of the Academic Board? Did they have any thing to

do with that wonderful wisdom and foresight displayed by the professors and cadets in commenting upon my

chances for getting back? Why should the Secretary of War go to West Point this year 'for a purpose,' and

converse with the professors about me both before and after the examination? Besides, he spoke of an

interview he had had with Colonel Ruger, Superintendent of the Academy, in New York, on Sunday, the 12th

instant, in reference to me; during which Colonel Ruger had said that the Academic Board would not

recommend me to return. Is it very wonderful that the Academic Board should refuse such recommendation

after those very interesting conversations which were held 'both before and after the recommendation?' Why

"In the next place, by what divine power does that learned oracle, a professor, prophesy that it will be a long

time before any one belonging to the colored race can graduate at West Point? It seems that he must have a

wonderful knowledge of the negro that he can tell the abilities of all the colored boys in America. But it is

possible that he is one of the younger professors, perhaps the professor of philosophy, and therefore expects

to live and preside over that department for a long time, though to the unsophisticated mind it looks very

"I think he could express himself better and come much nearer the truth by substituting shall for can in that

sentence. Of course, while affairs remain at West Point as they have always been, and are now, no colored

boy will graduate there; but there are some of us who are sanguine about seeing a change, even if we can't get

As I told you in my last communication, I shall now proceed to give you an account of my four years' stay at

"I reported there on the 31st of May, 1870, and had not been there an hour before I had been reminded by

several thoughtful cadets that I was 'nothing but a dd nigger.' Another colored boy, Howard, of

Mississippi, reported on the same day, and we were put in the same room, where we stayed until the

preliminary examination was over, and Howard was sent away, as he failed to pass.

"While we were there we could not meet a cadet anywhere without having the most opprobrious epithets

applied to us; but after complaining two or three times, we concluded to pay no attention to such things, for,

"One night about twelve o'clock some one came into our room, and threw the contents of his sloppail over

us while we were asleep. We got to our door just in time to hear the 'gentleman' go into his room on the floor

above us. This affair reported itself the next morning at 'Police Inspection,' and the inspector ordered us to

search among the tobacco quids, and other rubbish on the floor, for something by which we might identify

the perpetrator of the affair. The search resulted in the finding of an old envelope, addressed to one McCord,

of Kentucky. That young 'gentleman' was questioned in reference, but succeeded in convincing the authorities

"A few days after that, Howard was struck in the face by that young 'gentleman,' 'because,' as he says, 'the

dd nigger didn't get out of the way when I was going into the bootblack's shop.' For that offence Mr.

McCord was confined to his room, but was never punished, as in a few days thereafter he failed at the

preliminary examination, and was sent away with all the other unfortunates, including Howard.

"On the 28th of June, 1870, those of us who had succeeded in passing the preliminary examination were

taken in 'plebe camp,' and there I got my taste of 'military discipline,' as the petty persecutions of about two

hundred cadets were called. Left alone as I was, by Howard's failure, I had to take every insult that was

offered, without saying any thing, for I had complained several times to the Commandant of Cadets, and,

after 'investigating the matter,' he invariably came to the conclusion, 'from the evidence deduced,' that I was

in the wrong, and I was cautioned that I had better be very particular about any statements that I might make,

"Whenever the 'plebes' (new cadets) were turned out to 'police' camp, as they were each day at 5 A.M. and 4

P.M., certain cadets would come into the company street and spit out quids of tobacco which they would call

for me to pick up. I would get a broom and shovel for the purpose, but they would immediately begin

swearing at and abusing me for not using my fingers, and then the corporal of police would order me to put

down that broom and shovel, 'and not to try to play the gentleman here,' for my fingers were 'made for that

purpose.' Finding there was no redress to be had there, I wrote my friend Mr. David Clark, of Hartford, Ct., to

do something for me. He had my letter published, and that drew the attention of Congress to the matter, and a

board was sent to West Point to inquire into the matter and report thereon. That board found out that several

cadets were guilty of conduct unbecoming a cadet and a gentleman and recommended that they be court

martialled, but the Secretary of War thought a reprimand would be sufficient. Among those reprimanded

were Q. O'M. Gillmore, son of General Gillmore; Alex. B. Dyer, son of General Dyer; and James H. Reid,

nephew of the Secretary of War (it is said). I was also reprimanded for writing letters for publication.

"Instead of doing good, these reprimands seemed only to increase the enmity of the cadets, and they

redoubled their energies to get me into difficulty, and they went on from bad to worse, until from words they

came to blows, and then occurred that 'little onpleasantness' known as the 'dipper fight.' On the 13th of

August, 1870, I, being on guard, was sent to the tank for a pail of water. I had to go a distance of about one

hundred and fifty yards, fill the pail by drawing water from the faucet in a dipper (the faucet was too low to

permit the pail to stand under it), and return to the guard tent in ten minutes. When I reached the tank, one of

my classmates, J. W. Wilson, was standing in front of the faucet drinking water from a dipper. He didn't seem

inclined to move, so I asked him to stand aside as I wanted to get water for the guard. He said: 'I'd like to see

any dd nigger get water before I get through.' I said: 'I'm on duty, and I've got no time to fool with you,'

and I pushed the pail toward the faucet. He kicked the pail over, and I set it up and stooped down to draw the

water, and then he struck at me with his dipper, but hit the brass plate on the front of my hat and broke his

dipper. I was stooping down at the time, but I stood up and struck him in the face with my left fist; but in

getting up I did not think of a tent fly that was spread over the tank, and that pulled my hat down over my

eyes. He then struck me in the face with the handle of his dipper (he broke his dipper at the first blow), and

then I struck him two or three times with my dipper, battering it, and cutting him very severely on the left

side of 'his head near the temple. He bled very profusely, and fell on the ground near the tank.

"The alarm soon spread through the camp, and all the cadets came running to the tank and swearing

"An officer who was in his tent near by came out and ordered me to be put under guard in one of the guard

tents, where I was kept until next morning, when I was put 'in arrest.' Wilson was taken to the hospital, where

he stayed two or three weeks, and as soon as he returned to duty he was also placed in arrest. This was made

the subject for a courtmartial, and that courtmartial will form the subject of my next communication.

"SIR: In my last communication I related the circumstances of the 'dipper fight,' and now we come to the

"But there was another charge upon which I was tried at the same time, the circumstances of which I will

"On the 15th of August, 1870, just two days after the 'dipper fight,' Cadet Corporal Beacom made a report

against me for 'replying in a disrespectful manner to a filecloser when spoken to at drill, P.M. For this

alleged offence I wrote an explanation denying the charge; but Cadet Beacom found three cadets who swore

that they heard me make a disrespectful reply in ranks when Cadet Beacom, as a filecloser on duty, spoke to

me, and the Commandant of Cadets, Lieutenant Colonel Upton, preferred charges against me for making

"The court to try me sat in September, with General O. O. Howard as President. I plead 'not guilty' to the

charge of assault on Cadet Wilson, and also to the charge of making false statements.

"The court found both Cadet Wilson and myself 'guilty' of assault, and sentenced us to be confined for two or

The finding of the court was approved by President Grant in the case of Cadet Wilson, but disapproved in my

case, on the ground that the punishment was not severe enough. Therefore, Cadet W. served his punishment

and I did not serve mine, as there was no authority vested in the President to increase it.

"On the second charge I was acquitted, for I proved, by means of the order book of the Academy that there

was no company drill on that daythe 15th of August that there was skirmish drill, and by the guard

reports of the same date, that Cadet Beacom and two of his three witnesses were on guard that day, and could

not have been at drill, even if there had been one. To some it might appear that the slight inconsistencies

existing between the sworn testimony of those cadets and the official record of the Academy, savored

somewhat of perjury, but they succeeded in explaining the matter by saying that 'Cadet Beacom only made a

mistake in date.' Of course he did; how could it be otherwise? It was necessary to explain it in some way so

that I might be proved a liar to the corps of cadets, even if they failed to accomplish that object to the

"I was released in November, after the proceedings and findings of the court had been returned from

Washington, where they had been sent for the approval of the President, having been in arrest for three

months. But I was not destined to enjoy my liberty for any length of time, for on the 13th of December, same

year, I was in the ranks of the guard, and was stepped on two or three times by Cadet Anderson, one of my

"As I had had some trouble with the same cadet some time before, on account of the same thing I believed

that he was doing it intentionally, and as it was very annoying, I spoke to him about it, saying: "I wish you

would not tread on my toes.' He answered: 'Keep your dd toes out of the way.' Cadet Birney, who was

standing near by, then made some invidious remarks about me, to which I did not condescend to reply. One

of the Cadet Corporals, Bailey, reported me for 'inattention in ranks,' and in my written explanation of the

offence, I detailed the circumstances, but both Birney and Anderson denied them, and the Commandant of

Cadets took their statement in preference to mine, and preferred charges against me for falsehood.

"I was court martialled in January, 1871, Captain Piper, Third Artillery, being President of the court. By this

court I was found I 'guilty,' as I had no witnesses, and had nothing to expect from the testimony of the

witnesses for the prosecution. Cadet Corporal Bailey, who made the report, Cadets Birney and Anderson

were the witnesses who convicted me; in fact they were the only witnesses summoned to testify in the case.

The sentence of the court was that I should be dismissed, but it was changed to one year's suspension, or,

since the year was almost gone before the finding of the court was returned from Washington, where it was

"I had no counsel at this trial, as I knew it would be useless, considering the onesided condition of affairs. I

was allowed to make the following written statement of the affair to be placed among the records of the

"'May it please the court: I stand here today charged with a most disgraceful actone which not only

affects my character, but will, if I am found guilty, affect it during my whole lifeand I shall attempt, in as

few words as possible, to show that I am as innocent as any person in this room. I was reported on the 18th of

December, 1870, for a very trivial offence. For this offence I submitted an explanation to the Commandant of

Cadets. In explanation I stated the real cause of committing the offence for which I was reported. But this

cause, as stated, involved another cadet, who, finding himself charged with an act for which he was liable to

punishment, denies all knowledge of it. He tries to establish his denial by giving evidence which I shall

attempt to prove absurd. On the morning of the 13th of December, 1870, at guard mounting, after the new

guard had marched past the old guard, and the command of "Twos left, halt!" had been given, the new guard

was about two or three yards to the front and right of the old guard. Then the command of "Left backward,

dress," was given to the new guard, "Order arms, in place rest." I then turned around to Cadet Anderson, and

said to him, "I wish you would not tread on my toes." This was said in a moderate tone, quite loud enough for

him to hear. He replied, as I understood, " Keep your dd toes out of the way." I said nothing more, and he

said nothing more. I then heard Cadet Birney say to another cadetI don't know who it wasstanding by

his side, "It (or the thing) is speaking to Mr. Anderson. If he were to speak to me I would knock him down." I

heard him distinctly, but as I knew that he was interfering in an affair that did not concern him, I took no

further notice of him, but turned around to my original position in the ranks. What was said subsequently I do

not know, for I paid no further attention to either party. I heard nothing said at any time about taking my eyes

away, or of Cadet Anderson compromising his dignity. Having thus reviewed the circumstances which gave

rise to the charge, may it please the court, I wish to say a word as to the witnesses. Each of these cadets

testifies to the fact that they have discussed the case in every particular, both with each other and with other

cadets. That is, they have found out each other's views and feelings in respect to it, compared the evidence

which each should give, the probable result of the trial; and one has even testified that he has expressed a

desire as to the result. Think you that Cadet Birney, with such a desire in his breast, influencing his every

thought and word, with such an end in view, could give evidence unbiassed, unprejudiced, and free from that

desire that "Cadet Smith might be sent away and proved a liar?" Think you that he could give evidence which

should be "the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God?" It seems impossible for me

to have justice done me by the evidence of such witnesses, but I will leave that for the court to decide. There

is another question here which must be answered by the finding of the court. It is this: "Shall Cadet Smith be

allowed to complain to the Commandant of Cadets when he considers himself unjustly dealt with?" When the

court takes notice of the fact that this charge and these specifications are the result of a complaint made by

me, it will agree with me as to the importance its findings will have in answering that question. As to what

the finding will be, I can say nothing; but if the court is convinced that I have lied, then I shall expect a

finding and sentence in accordance with such conviction. A lie is as disgraceful to one man as another, be he

white or black, and I say here, as I said to the Commandant of Cadets, "If I were guilty of falsehood, I should

merit and expect the same punishment as any other cadet;" but, as I said before, I am as innocent of this

charge as any person in this room. The verdict of an infallible judgeconscience is, "Not guilty," and that

"SIR: In relating the events of my first year at West Point, I omitted one little affair which took place, and I

will now relate the circumstances. One Sunday, at dinner, I helped myself to some soup, and one cadet,

Clark, of Kentucky, who sat opposite me at table, asked me what I meant by taking soup before he had done

so. I told him that I took it because I wished it, and that there was a plenty left. He seemed to be insulted at

that, and asked: 'Do you think I would eat after a dd Nigger?' I replied: 'I have not thought at all on the

subject, and, moreover, I don't quite understand you, as I can't find that last word in the dictionary.' He then

took up a glass and said he would knock my head off. I told him to throw as soon as he pleased, and as soon

as he got through I would throw mine. The commandant of the table here interfered and ordered us to stop

creating a disturbance at the table, and gave me to understand that thereafter I should not touch any thing on

"When we came back from dinner, as I was going into my room, Cadet Clark struck at me from behind. He

hit me on the back of my neck, causing me to get into my room with a little more haste than I anticipated, but

he did not knock me down. He came into my room, following up his advantage, and attempted to take me by

the throat, but he only succeeded in scratching me a little with his nails, as I defended myself as well as

possible until I succeeded in getting near my bayonet, which I snatched from the scabbard and then tried to

put it through him. But being much larger and stronger than I, he kept me off until he got to the door, but then

he couldn't get out, for some one was holding the door on the outside, for the purpose, I suppose, of

preventing my escape, as no doubt they thought I would try to get out. There were a great many cadets

outside on the stoop, looking through the window, and cheering their champion, with cries of 'That's right,

Clark; kill the dd nigger,' 'Choke him,' 'Put a head on him,' etc., but when they saw him giving way before

the bayonet, they cried, 'Open the door, boys,' and the door was opened, and Mr. Clark went forth to rejoice

in the bosom of his friends as the hero of the day. The cadet officer of the day 'happened around' just after

Clark had left, and wanted to know what did I mean by making all that noise in and around my quarters. I

told him what the trouble was about, and soon after I was sent for by the 'officer in charge,' and questioned in

reference to the affair. Charges were preferred against Clark for entering my room and assaulting me, but

before they were brought to trial he sent two of his friends tome asking if I would withdraw the charges

providing he made a written apology. I told these cadets that I would think of the matter and give them a

"I was perfectly well satisfied that he would be convicted by any court that tried him; but the cadets could

easily prove (according to their way of giving evidence) that I provoked the assault, and I, besides, was

utterly disgusted with so much wrangling, so when the cadets called that evening I told them that if his

written apology was satisfactory I would sign it, submit it to the approval of the Commandant of Cadets, and

"They then showed me the written apology offered by Clark, in which he stated that his offence was caused

by passion, because he thought that when I passed him on the steps in going to my room I tried to brush

against him. He also expressed his regret for what he had done, and asked forgiveness. I was satisfied with

his apology, and signed it, asking that the charges be withdrawn, which was done, of course, and Clark was

released from arrest. I will, in justice to Cadet Clark, state that I never had any further trouble with him, for,

while he kept aloof from me, as the other cadets did, he alway thereafter acted perfectly fair by me whenever

"A few days after the settlement of our dispute I found, on my return from fencing one day, that some one

had entered my room and had thrown all my clothes and other property around the floor, and had thrown the

water out of my waterpail upon my bed. I immediately went to the guardhouse and reported the affair to

the officer of the day, who, with the 'officer in charge,' came to my room to see what had been done. The

officer of the day said that he had inspected my quarters soon after I went to the Fencing Academy and found

everything in order, and that it must have been done within a half hour. The Commandant of the Cadets made

an investigation of the matter, but could not find out what young 'gentleman' did it, for every cadet stated that

he knew nothing of it, although the corps of cadets has the reputation of being a truthful set of young men.

"'Upon my honor as a cadet and a gentleman,'" is a favorite expression with the West Point cadet; but what

kind of honor is that by which a young man can quiet his conscience while telling a base falsehood for the

purpose of shielding a fellowstudent from punishmen for a disgraceful act? They boast of the esprit de corps

existing among the cadets; but it is merely a cloak for the purpose of covering up their iniquities and

silencing those (for there are some) who would, if allowed to act according to the dictates of their own

consciences, be above such disgraceful acts. Some persons might attribute to me the same motives that

actuated the fox in crying 'sour grapes,' and to such I will say that I never asked for social equality at West

Point. I never visited the quarters of any professor, official, or cadet except on duty, for I did not wish any

one to think that I was in any way desirous of social recognition by those who felt themselves superior to me

on account of color. As I was never recognized as 'a cadet and a gentleman,' I could not enjoy that blessed

privilege of swearing 'upon my honor,' boasting of my share in the esprit de corps, nor of concealing my sins

by taking advantage of them. Still, I hope that what I lost (?) by being deprived of these little benefits will be

compensated for the 'still small voice,' which tells me that I have done my best.

"SIR: My communications, thus far, have brought me to the end of my first year at the Academy, and now we

come to the events of the second. In June of 1871, the proverbial silver lining, which the darkest cloud is said

to have, began to shine very faintly in the West Point firmament, and I thought that at last the darkness of my

cadet life was to be dispelled by the appearance above the horizon of another colored cadet. And, indeed, I

was not disappointed, for, one day, I was greeted by the familiar face and voice of Mr. H. A. Napier, a former

fellowstudent at Howard University. Soon after his arrival, and admittance, the corps of 'cadets,

accompanied by the 'plebes,' took up quarters in camp 'plebe camp' to the latter, and 'yearling camp' to us

"During the cadet encampment there are certain dances given three times each week, known as 'Cadet Hops.'

These 'hops' are attended by the members of the first and third classes, and their lady friends, and no 'plebe'

ever has the assurance of dreaming of attending the 'hops' until he shall have risen to the dignity of a

'yearling'thirdclassman. So long as I was a 'plebe,' no one anticipated any such dire calamity as that I

would attend the 'hops,' but as soon as I became a 'yearling,' and had a perfect right to go, if I wished, there

was a great hue and cry raised that the sanctity of the 'hop' room was to be violated by the colored cadet.

"Meetings were held by the different classes, and resolutions passed to the effect that as soon as the colored

cadet entered the 'hop' room, the 'hop' managers were to declare the 'hop' ended, and dismiss the musicians.

But the 'hops' went on undisturbed by the presence of the colored cadet for two or three weeks, and all began

to get quiet again, when one day my brother and sister, with a couple of lady friends whom they had come to

"This started afresh the old report about the 'hops,' and every one was on the qui vive to get a glimpse of

'nigger Jim and the nigger wenches who are going to the hops,' as was remarked by a cadet who went up from

"In a few minutes thereafter the 'gentlemen' had all taken position at the end of the 'company street,' and, with

their operaglasses, were taking observations upon those who, as they thought, had come to desecrate the

'hop' room. I was on guard that day, but not being on post at that time, I was sitting in rear of the guard tents

with my friendsthat place being provided with campstools for the accommodation of visitors when a

cadet corporal, Tyler, of Kentucky, came and ordered me to go and fasten down the corner of the first guard

"I went to do so, when he came there also, and immediately began to rail at me for being so slow, saying he

wished me to know that when he ordered me to do anything, I must 'step out' about it, and not try to shirk it. I

said nothing, but fastened down the corner of the tent, and went back to where my friends were.

"In a few minutes afterwards he came back, and wanted to know why I hadn't fastened down that tent wall. I

"He said it was not fastened then, and that he did not wish any prevarication on my part.

"I then told him that he had no authority to charge me with prevarication, and that if he believed that I had not

fastened down the tent wall, the only thing he could do was to report me. I went back to the tent and found

that either Cadet Tyler or some other cadet had unfastened the tent wall, so I fastened it down again. Nothing

now was said to me by Cadet Tyler, and I went back to where my friends were: but we had been sitting there

only about a half hour, when a private soldier came to us and said, 'It is near time for parade, and you will

have to go away from here.' I never was more surprised in my life, and I asked the soldier what he meant, for

I surely thought be was either drunk or crazy, but he said that the superintendent had given him orders to

"I asked him if he recognized me as a cadet. He said he did. I then told him that those were my friends; that I

had invited them there to see the parade, and that they were going to stay. He said he had nothing to do with

me, of course, but that he had to obey the orders of the superintendent. I then went to the officer of the guard,

who was standing near by, and stated the circumstances to him, requesting him to protect us from such

insults. He spoke to the soldier, saying that he had best not try to enforce that order, as the order was intended

"Soon after that the drum sounded for parade, and I was compelled to leave my friends for the purpose of

falling in ranks, but promising to return as soon as the parade was over, little thinking that I should not be

able to redeem that promise; but such was the case, as I shall now proceed to show.

"Just as the companies were marching off the parade ground, and before the guard was dismissed, the 'officer

in charge,' Lieutenant Charles King, Fifth Cavalry, came to the guard tent and ordered me to step out of ranks

"He then ordered me to take off my accoutrements and place them with my musket on the gun rack. That

being done, he ordered me to take my place in the centre of the guard as a prisoner, and there I stood until the

ranks were broken, when I was put in the guard tent. Of course my friends felt very bad about it, as they

thought that they were the cause of it, while I could Not speak a word to them, as they went away; and even if

I could have spoken to them, I could not have explained the matter, for I did not know myself why I had been

put thereat least I did not know what charge had been trumped up against me, though I knew well enough

that I had been put there for the purpose of keeping me from the 'hop,' as they expected I would go. The next

morning I was put 'in arrest' for 'disobedience of orders in not fastening down tent wall when ordered,' and

'replying in a disrespectful manner to a cadet corporal,' etc.; and thus the simplest thing was magnified into a

very serious offence, for the purpose of satisfying the desires of a few narrowminded cadets. That an officer

of the United States Army would allow his prejudices to carry him so far as to act in that way to a

subordinate, without giving him a chance to speak a word in his defencenay, without allowing him to

know what charge had been made against him, and that he should be upheld in such action by the 'powers

that be,' are sufficient proof to my mind of the feelings which the officers themselves maintained towards us.

While I was in ranks, during parade, and my friends were quietly sitting down looking at the parade, another

model 'officer and gentleman,' Captain Alexander Piper, Third Artilleryhe was president of my second

court martialcame up, in company with a lady, and ordered my brother and sister to get up and let him

have their campstools, and he actually took away the campstools and left them standing, while a different

kind of a gentlemanan 'obscure citizen,' with no aristocratic West Point dignity to boast ofkindly

"I only wish I knew the name of that gentleman; but I could not see him then, or I should certainly have

found it out, though in answer to my brother's question as to his name, he simply replied, 'I am an obscure

citizen.' What a commentary on our 'obscure citizens,' who know what it is to be gentlemen in something else

besides the namegentlemen in practice, not only in theoryand who can say with Burns that 'a mans a

man for a' that,' whether his face be as black as midnight or as white as the driven snow.

"There is something in such a man which elevates him above many others who, having nothing else to boast

of, can only say, 'I am a white man, and am therefore your superior,' or 'I am a West Point graduate, and

"After the usual 'investigation' by the Commandant of Cadets, I was sentenced to be confined to the 'company

street' until the 15th of August, about five weeks, so that I could not get out to see my brother and sister after

that, except when I was at drill, and then I could not speak to them. I tried to get permission to see them in the

'Visitors' Tent' the day before they left the 'Point' on their return home, but my permit was not granted, and

"I must say a word in reference to the commandant's method of making 'investigations.' After sending for

Cadet Corporal Tyler and other white cadets, and hearing their side of the story in reference to the tent wall

and the disrespectful reply, he sent for me to hear what I had to say, and after I had given my version of the

affair, he told me that I must surely be mistaken, as my statement did not coincide with those of the other

cadets, who were unanimous in saying that I used not only disrespectful, but also profane language while

addressing the cadet corporal. I told him that new Cadet Napier and my brother were both there and heard the

conversation, and they would substantiate my statement if allowed to testify. He said he was convinced that I

was in the wrong, and he did not send for either of them. What sort of justice is that which can be meted out

to one without allowing him to defend himself, and even denying him the privilege of calling his evidence?

What a model Chief Justice the Commandant of Cadets would make, since he can decide upon the merits of

the case as soon as he has heard one side. Surely he has missed his calling by entering the army, or else the

American people cannot appreciate true ability, for that 'officer and gentleman' ought now to be wearing the

"In reply to my complaint about the actions of the soldier in ordering my friends away from the visitors' seats,

he said that the soldier had misunderstood his orders, as the superintendent had told him to keep the colored

servants on the 'Point' from coming in front of the battalion at parade, and that it was not meant to apply to

"It seems, though, very strange to me that the soldier could misunderstand his orders, when he saw me sitting

there in company with them, for it is one of the regulations of the Academy which forbids any cadet to

associate with a servant, and if I had been seen doing such a thing I would have been courtmartialled for

"The cadets were, of course, very much rejoiced at my being 'in arrest,' and after my sentence had been

published at parade, they had quite a jubilee over it, and boasted of 'the skill and tact which Cadet Tyler had

shown in putting the nigger out of the temptation of taking those black wenches to the hops.' They thought,

no doubt, that their getting me into trouble frightened me out of any thoughts I might have had of attending

the 'hops;' but if I had any idea of going to the 'hops,' I should have been only more determined to go, and

should have done so as soon as my term of confinement was ended. I have never thought of going to the

'hops,' for it would be very little pleasure to go by myself, and I should most assuredly not have asked a lady

to subject herself to the insults consequent upon going there. Besides, as I said before, I did not go to West

Point for the purpose of advocating social equality, for there are many cadets in the corps with whom I think

it no honor for any one to associate, although they are among the hightoned aristocrats, and will, no doubt,

"SIR: The following article appeared in the Washington Chronicle of the 14th inst., and as I feel somewhat

interested in the statements therein contained, I desire to say a few words in reference to them. The article

"'The recent attack of the colored, exCadet Smith upon the Board of Visitors at West Point has attracted the

attention of the officers of the War Department. They say that the Secretary of War was extremely liberal in

his interpretation of the regulations on behalf of Cadet Smith, and that he did for him what had never been

done for a white boy in like circumstances. The officers also say that Smith was manifestly incompetent, that

he had a fair examination, and that the Congressional Board of Visitors unanimously testified to his

"Now, sir, I am at a loss to know what are 'the recent attacks of the colored exCadet Smith upon the Board

of Visitors,' for I am not aware that I have said any thing, either directly or indirectly, concerning the Board

of Visitors. My remarks thus far have been confined to the Academic Board and Secretary of War.

"As the members of the Board of Visitors were simply spectators, and as they were not present when I was

examined, I had no reason to make any 'attack' upon them, and, therefore, as I said before, confined my

remarks (or 'attacks,' if that word is more acceptable to the Chronicle) to those who acted so unjustly toward

"As to the extreme liberality of the Secretary of War, in his interpretation of the regulations on behalf of

Cadet Smith, and that he did for him what he had never 'done for a white boy in like circumstances,' I hardly

know what to say; for such absurd cant seems intended to excite the laughter of all who know the

circumstances of the case. What devoted servants those officers of the War Department must be, that they can

"But in what respect was the Secretary of War so 'liberal in his interpretation of the regulations?'

"Was it in dismissing me, and turning back to a lower class two white cadets who had been unable to

complete successfully the first year of the course with everything in their favor, while I had completed three

years of the same course in spite of all the opposition which the whole corps of cadets, backed by the 'powers

that be,' could throw in my way? Or was it his decision that 'I can give Mr. Smith a reexamination, but I

won't?' The Chronicle is perfectly correct in saying 'that he did for him what had never been done for a white

boy in like circumstances,' for, in the first place, I don't think there ever was 'a white boy in like

circumstances,' certainly not while I was at the Academy, and if there ever were a white boy so placed, we

are pretty safe in concluding, from the general treatment of white boys, that the secretary was not so frank in

"'I want another cadet to represent your district at West Point, and I have already sent to Mr. Elliott to appoint

one,' means something more than fair dealing (or, as the Chronicle would imply, partiality) toward the

colored cadet. It means that the gentleman was pleasing himself in the choice of a cadet from the Third

Congressional District of South Carolina, and that he did not recognize the rights of the people of that district

to choose for themselves. 'You are out of the service and will stay out,' for 'the Academic Board will not

recommend you to come back under any circumstances,' shows that it is the Academic Board That must

choose our representative, and not we ourselves, and that our wishes are only secondary in comparison with

those of the service and the Academic Board. We are no longer free citizens of a sovereign State, and of the

United States, with the right to choose for ourselves those who shall represent us; but we must be subordinate

to the Secretary of War and the Academic Board, and must make our wishes subservient to those of the

abovenamed powers, and unless we do that we are pronounced to be 'naturally bad'as remarked the

Adjutant of the Academy, Captain R. H. Hall, to a Sun reporterand must have done for us 'what had never

been done for a white boy in like circumstances.' Now, sir, let us see what has 'been done for a white boy in

like circumstances.' In July, 1870, the President was in Hartford, Ct., and in a conversation with my friend the

Hon. David Clark, in reference to my treatment at West Point, he said: 'Don't take him away now; the battle

might just as well be fought now as at any other time,' and gave him to understand that he would see me

protected in my rights; while his son Fred, who was then a cadet, said to the same gentleman, and in the

presence of his father, that 'the time had not come to send colored boys to West Point.' Mr. Clark said if the

time had come for them to be in the United States Senate, it had surely come for them to be at West Point,

and that he would do all in his power to have me protected. Fred Grant then said: 'Well, no dd nigger will

ever graduate from West Point.' This same young gentleman, with other members of his class, entered the

rooms of three cadets, members of the fourth class, on the night of January 3, 1871, took those cadets out, and

drove them away from the 'Point,' with nothing on but the light summer suits that they wore when they

reported there the previous summer. Here was a most outrageous example of Lynch law, disgraceful alike to

the first class, who were the executors of it, the corps of cadets, who were the abettors of it, and the

authorities of the Academy, who were afraid to punish the perpetrators because the President's son was

implicated, or, at least, one of the prime movers of the affair. Congress took the matter in hand, and instructed

the Secretary of War to dismiss all the members of the class who were implicated, but the latter gentleman

'was extremely liberal in his interpretation of the regulations,' and declined to be influenced by the action of

"Again, when a Court of Inquiry, appointed by Congress to investigate complaints that I had made of my

treatment, reported in favor of a trial by courtmartial of General Gillmore's son, General Dyer's son, the

nephew of the Secretary of War, and some other lesser lights of America's aristocracy, the secretary decided

that a reprimand was sufficient for the offence; yet 'he did for me what had never been done for a white boy

in like circumstances.' Now, sir, by consulting my Register of the Academy, issued in 1871, I find that three

cadets of the fourth class were declared 'deficient ' in mathematicsReid, Boyle, and Walkerand that the

first named was turned back to join the next class, while the other two were dismissed. Now Reid is the

Secretary's nephew, so that is the reason for his doing 'for him what had never been done for a white boy in

"Mr. Editor, I have no objection whatever to any favoritism that may be shown 'any member of the Royal.

Family, so long as it does not infringe upon any right of my race or myself; but when any paper tries to show

that I have received such impartial treatment at the hands of 'the powers that be,' and even go so far, in their

zealous endeavors to shield any one from charges founded upon facts, as to try to make it appear that I was a

favorite, a pet lamb, or any other kind of a pet, at West Point, I think it my duty to point out any errors that

"'The officers also say that Smith was manifestly incompetent, that he had a fair examination,' etc. What

officers said that? Those of the War Department, whose attention was attracted by the 'recent attacks on the

Board of Visitors,' or those who decided the case at West Point? In either case, it is not surprising that they

should say so, for one party might feel jealous because 'the Secretary of War was extremely liberal in his

interpretation of the regulations on behalf of Cadet Smith, and that he did for him what had never been done

for a white boy in like circumstances,' while the other party might have been actuated by the desire to prove

that 'no colored boy can ever graduate at West Point,' or, as the young gentleman previously referred to said,

'No dd nigger shall ever graduate at West Point.' As for the unanimous testimony of the Board of Visitors,

I can only say that I know not on what ground such testimony is based, for, as I said before, the members of

that board were not in the library when I was examined in philosophy; but perhaps, this is only one of the

'they says' of the officers. There are some things in this case which are not so manifest as my alleged

incompetency, and I would like to bring them to the attention of the Chronicle, and of any others who may

feel interested in the matter. There has always been a system of reexaminations at the Military Academy for

the purpose of giving a second chance to those cadets who failed at the regular examination. This year the re

examinations were abolished; but for what reason? It is true that I had never been reexamined, but does it

not appear that the officers had concluded 'that Smith was manifestly incompetent,' and that this means was

taken to deprive me of the benefit of a reexamination when they decided that I was 'deficient?' Or was it

done so that the officers might have grounds for saying that 'he did for him what had never been done for a

white boy in like circumstances?' Again, the examinations used to be public; but this year two sentinels were

posted at the door of the library, where the examinations were held, and when a visitor came he sent in his

card by one of the sentinels, while the other remained at the door, and was admitted or not at the discretion of

the superintendent. It is said that this precaution was taken because the visitors disturbed the members of the

Academic Board by walking across the floor. Very good excuse, for the floor was covered with a very thick

carpet. We must surely give the Academic Board credit for so much good judgment and foresight, for it

would have been a very sad affair, indeed, for those gentlemen to have been made so nervous (especially the

Professor of Philosophy) as to be unable to see how 'manifestly incompetent' Cadet Smith was, and it would

have deprived the Secretary of War of the blissful consciousness that 'he did for him what had never been

done for a white boy in like circumstances,' besides losing the privilege of handing down to future

generations the record of his extreme liberality 'in his interpretation of the regulations on behalf of Cadet

"Oh, that this mighty deed might be inscribed on a lasting leather medal and adorn the walls of the War

Department, that it might act as an incentive to some future occupant of that lofty station! I advise the use of

leather, because if we used any metal it might convey to our minds the idea of 'a sounding brass or a tinkling

"We publish this morning an account of Cadet Smith's standing at West Point, which should be taken with a

few grains of allowance. The embryo colored soldier and all his friendsblack, white and tanbelieve that

the administrationists have used him shamefully, especially in view of their professions and of the chief

source of their political strength. Grant went into the White House by means of colored votes, and his shabby

treatment of the first member of the dusky army who reached the point of graduation in the country's military

"Cadet Smith has been a thorn in the side of the Administration from the start. He could not be bullied out or

persecuted out of the institution by the insults or menaces of those who, for consistency's sake, should have

folded him to their bosoms. He stood his ground bravely, and much against the will of its rulers. West Point

was forced to endure his unwelcome presence up to the time of graduation. At that point a crisis was reached.

If the odious cadet were allowed to graduate, his commission would entitle him to assignment in our

muchofficered army, which contains Colonel Fred Grant and a host of other favorites whose only service

has been of the Captain Jinks order. The army revolted at the idea. Theoretically they were and are sound on

the nigger, but they respectfully and firmly objected to a practical illustration. The Radical General Belknap

was easily convinced that the assignment of the unoffending Smith to duty would cause a lack of discipline in

"Something must be done, and that something was quickly accomplished. They saved the army and the

dignity of the horse marines by sacrificing the cadet. To do so, some tangible cause must be alleged, and a

"In vain did Smith appeal to the Secretary of War for an opportunity to be reexamined; in vain did he ask

permission to go back and join the class belowall appeals were in vain. 'Gentlemen,' says the secretary, 'I

don't wish to be misquoted as saying that I can't give Mr. Smith a reexamination, for I say I won't do it.' The

victim of the army has since published a three column card in Fred Douglass's paper, in which he says he

was dropped for politicomilitary reasons, and in the course of which he makes an almost unanswerable case

for himself, but the Radicals have dropped him in his hour of necessity, and he must submit."

"James W. Smith, the first colored cadet appointed to the Military Academy of West Point, was dismissed

after the June examination, having failed to pass an examination in some other studies. Recently the Sun

received letters from South Carolina charging that the prejudices of the officers of the Academy led to the

dismissal; and to ascertain the truth a Sun reporter went to West Point to investigate the matter. He accosted a

"'The soldiers thought well of him, but the cadets didn't. They used to laugh and poke fun at him in Riding

Hall, and in the artillery drill all of them refused to join hands with him when the cannoneers were ordered to

mount. This is dangerous once in a while, for sometimes they mount when the horses are on a fast trot. But he

used to run on as plucky as you please, and always got into his seat without help. Some of the officers used to

try to make them carry out the drill, but it was no use. I never saw one of the young fellows give him a hand

to make a mount. He was a proud negro, and had good pluck. I never heard him complain, but his black eyes

used to flash when he was insulted, and you could see easy enough that he was in a killin' humor. But after

His temper was hot, and his disposition not honorable. I can assure you that the officers at this post did every

thing in their power to help him along in his studies, as well as to improve his standing with his comrades.

But his temper interfered with their efforts in the latter direction, while his dulness precluded his passing

"CAPTAIN HALL'He was not bright or ready. He lacked comprehension. In his first year he was very

troublesome. First came his assault upon, or affray with, another young gentleman (Cadet Wilson), but the

Court of Inquiry deemed it inadvisable to courtmartial either of them. Then he was insolent to his superior

on drill, and being called upon for an explanation he wrote a deliberate falsehood. For this he was

courtmartialled and sentenced to dismissal, but subsequently the findings of the committee were reversed,

and Cadet Smith was put back one year. This fact accounts for his good standing on the examination next

"CAPTAIN HALL'HIS worst failure was in natural and experimental philosophy, which embraces the

higher mathematics, dynamics, optics, mechanics, and other studies. He missed a very simple question in

optics, and the examiners, who were extremely lenient with him, chiefly, I believe, because he was colored

"REPORTER'Is optical science deemed an absolutely essential branch of learning for an officer in the

"CAPTAIN HALL'It is useful to engineers, for instance. But that is not the question. In most educational

institutions of the grade of West Point, the standing of a student in his studies is decided by a general average

of all studies in which he is examined. Here each branch is considered separately, and if the cadet fails in any

one he cannot pass. I will assure you once more that in my opinion Cadet Smith received as fair an

examination as was ever given to any student. If anything, he was a little more favored.'

"CAPTAIN HALL'Good. He ranked twenty in a class of forty in discipline. Discipline is decided by the

number of marks a cadet receives in the term. If he goes beyond a certain number he is expelled.'

"REPORTER'This record seems hardly consistent with his previous turbulent career.'

"CAPTAIN HALL'Oh! in the last years of his service he learned to control his temper, but he never

"CAPTAIN HALL'Only oneHenry O. Flipper, of Georgia. He is a wellbuilt lad, a mulatto, and is

"CAPTAIN HALL'No, Sir, I am told that he is more popular. I have heard of no doubt he will get through

all right. And here I will say, that had Mr. Smith been white he would not have gone so far as he did.'

"Other officers of the post concur with Captain Hall, but the enlisted men seem to sympathize with Smith.

One of them said, 'I don't believe the officers will ever let a negro get through. They don't want them in the

"Cadet Smith's career for the three years of his service was indeed a most unhappy one, but whether that

or from the persistent persecutions of his comrades cannot be authoritatively said. One officer attributed

much of the pugnacity which Smith exhibited early in his course to the injudicious letters sent him by his

friends. In some of these he was advised to 'fight for the honor of his race,' and others urged him to brook no

insult at the hands of the white cadets. The menial duties which the 'plebes' are called upon to do in their first

summer encampment were looked upon by Smith as personal insults thrust upon him, althought his comrades

made no complaint. Then the social ostracism to a lad of his sensitive nature was almost unbearable, and an

"Before he had been in the Academy a week he wrote to a friend complaining of the treatment he received

from his fellows, and this letter being published intensified the hostility of the other cadets. Soon after this he

had a fight with Cadet Wilson and cut his face with a dipper. Then followed the breach of discipline on drill,

the courtmartial and sentence, and finally the Congressional investigation, which did not effect any good.

Smith says that frequently on squad drill he was detached from the squad by the cadet corporal, and told that

About the 20th of May, 1870, I saw the colored Cadet, James W. Smith land at the West Point Dock. He was

appointed by a personal friend of mine, Judge Hoge, Member of Congress from Columbia, South Carolina.

The mulatto boy was about five feet eight inches high, with olive complexion and freckles. Being hungry he

tipped his hat to a cadet as he jumped from the ferry boat and asked him the way to the hotel.

"'Over there, boy,' replied the cadet, pointing to the Rose Hotel owned by the government.

"On arriving there the colored boy laid down his carpet bag, registered his name, and asked for something to

"'Well, you'll have to be hungry a good while if you wait to get something to eat here,' and the clerk of the

"Jimmy Smith's father, who fought with General Sherman, and came back to become an alderman in

Columbia, had told the boy that when he got to West Point among soldiers he would be treated justly, and

you can imagine how the hungry boy felt when he trudged back over the hot campus to see Colonel Black

"The black boy came and stood before the commandant and handed him his appointment papers and asked

him to read them. Colonel Black, Colonel Boynton, and other officers looked around inquiringly. Then they

got up to take a good look at, the first colored cadet. The colonel, red in the face, waved the boy away with

"In a few moments the news spread through the Academy. The white cadets seemed paralyzed.

"Several cadets threatened to resign, some advocated maiming him for life, and a Democratic 'pleb' from

Illinois exclaimed, 'I'd rather die than drill with the black devil.' But wiser counsels prevailed, and the cadets

consented to tolerate Jimmy Smith and not drown or kill him for four weeks, when it was thought the

"On the 16th of June, 1870, I saw Jimmy Smith again at West Point and wrote out my experiences. He was

"At these insults the colored cadet showed a suppressed emotion. He could not break the ranks to chastise his

assaulter. Then if he had fought with every cadet who called him a 'blackhearted nigger,' he would have

fought with the whole Academy. Not the professors, for they have been as truly gentlemen as they are good

officers. If they had feelings against the colored cadet they suppressed them. I say now that the indignities

heaped upon Jimmy Smith would have been unbearable to any white boy of spirit. Hundreds of times a day

"Once I met Jimmy Smith after drill. He bore the insulting remarks like a Christian.

"'I expected it,' he said; 'but it was not so at the Hartford High School. There I had the second honors of my

class.' Then he showed me a catalogue of the Hartford High School, and there was the name of James W.

"'His name is Israel Smith. He used to belong to Sandres Guignard, of Columbia.'

"'She is Catherine Smith, born free.' Here Jimmy showed his mother's photograph. She looked like a mulatto

woman, with straight hair and regular features. She had a serious, MissSiddonslooking face.

"'Well, Mr. David Clark, of Hartford, promised to educate me, and he got Congressman Hoge to appoint me.'

"'Well, a very kind white ladyMiss Loomiscame to Columbia to teach the freedmen. I went to school to

her and studied so hard and learned so fast that she told Mr. Clark about me. My father is able to support me,

but Mr. Clark is a great philanthropist and he has taken a liking to me and he is going to stand by me.'

"'DEAR JEMMY: Yours, 1st inst., is at hand and noted. I herewith inclose stamps.

"'Let them call "nigger" as much as they please; they will laugh out of the other corner of their mouth before

"'Your only way is to maintain your dignity. Go straight ahead. If any personal insult is offered, resist it, and

then inform me; I will then see what I can do. But I think you need have no fear on that score. Have been out

to Windham a few days. All well, and send kind regards. Mary sails for Europe Saturday. President Grant is

"'Why, yes; he knows everybodyall the great men. He's a great man himself;' and this poor colored boy

"'Yes, David Clark is a good man,' I mused, as I saw the grateful tears standing in the colored cadet's eyes.

"When I got back to the hotel I heard a wishywashy girl, who came up year after year with a party to flirt

"'O dear! it is hawid to have this colod cadetperfectly dre'fful. I should die to see my George standing next

"But Miss Schenck, the daughter of General Schenck, our Minister to the Court of St. James, told Jimmy

Smith that she hoped he would graduate at the head of his class, and when the colored boy told me about it he

"'Oh, sir, a splendid lady called to see me today. I wish I knew her name. I want to tell David Clark.'

"Every white boy at West Point now agreed to cut the colored boy. No one was to say a single word to him,

or even answer yes or no. At the same time they would abuse him and swear at him in their own conversation

loud enough for him to hear. It is a lamentable fact that every white cadet at the Point swears and chews

"Again I saw Jimmy Smith on the 9th of July. The officers of the Academy had been changed. Old General

Schriver had given place to young General Upton. The young general is a man of feeling and a lover of

"'My boy, you say you want to resign, that you can stand this persecution no longer. You must not do it. You

are here an officer of the army. You have stood a severe examination. You have passed honorably and you

shall not be persecuted into resigning. I am your friend. Come to me and you shall have justice.'

"Then General Upton addressed the cadets on dress parade. He told them personal insults against their

"One day a cadet came to Jimmy and said he would befriend him if he dared to, 'but you know I would be

"'My DEAR SON: I take great pleasure in answering your kind letter received last night. I pray God that my

letter may find you in a better state of consolation than when you wrote to me. I told you that you would have

trials and difficulties to endure. Do not mind them, for they will go like chaff before the wind, and your

enemies will soon be glad to gain your friendship. They do the same to all newcomers in every college. You

are elevated to a high position, and you must stand it like a man. Do not let them run you away, for then they

will say, the "nigger" won't do. Show your spunk, and let them see that you will fight. That is what you are

sent to West Point for. When they find you are determined to stay, they will let you alone. You must not

resign on any account, for it is just what the Democrats want. They are betting largely here that you won't get

in. The rebels say if you are admitted, they will devil you so much that you can't stay. Be a man; don't think

of leaving, and let me know all about your troubles. The papers say you have not been received. Do write me

"'Times are lively here, for everybody is preparing for the Fourth of July. There are five colored companies

"On the 11th of January I visited West Point again. I found all the cadets still against the colored boy. A

system of terrorism reigned supreme. Every one who did not take sides against the colored boy was

"At drill one morning Cadet Anderson trod on the colored boy's toes. When Smith expostulated Anderson

replied, 'Keep your toes away.' When Smith told about it Anderson got two other white cadets to say he

"Last July I saw the colored cadet again. He was still ostracized. No cadet ever spoke to him. He lived a,

"When I asked him how he got on with his studies he said: 'As well as I am able, roaming all alone, with no

one to help me and no one to clear up the knotty points. If there is an obscure point in my lesson I must go to

"Yesterday, after watching the colored cadet for three years, I saw him again. He has grown tall and slender.

He talks slowly, as if he had lost the use of language. Indeed many days and weeks he has gone without

"When they were examining him the other day he spoke slowly, but his answers were correct. His answers in

philosophy were correct. But they say he answered slowly, and they will find him deficient for that. Find him

deficient for answering slowly when the boy almost lost the use of language! When he knew four hundred

"The colored cadet is now in his third year. The great question at West Point is, Will he pass his examination?

No one will know till the 30th of June. It is my impression that the young officers have marked him so low

that he will be found deficient. The young officers hate him almost as bad as the cadets, and whenever they

"'No. I dare not address a cadet. I do not want to provoke them. I simply want to graduate. I am satisfied if

they do not strike or harm me; though if I had a kind word now and then I should be happier, and I could

"Today I met General Howard, who was present at the colored cadet's courtmartial. I asked him to tell me

"'Well, Mr. Perkins,' said the General, 'they tried to make out that the colored boy lied.'

"'Yes,' I interrupted, 'and they all say he did lie at the Point now. How was it?'

"'It was this way: They accused him of talking on parade, and, while trying to convict him out of his own

mouth, they asked him "If on a certain day he did not speak to a certain cadet while on drill?" "I did not speak

to this cadet while on drill the day you mention," answered Cadet Smith, "for the cadet was not in the parade

"This answer startled the prosecutors, and, looking over the diary of parade days, they were astonished to find

"'Why they accuse him of telling a lie in spirit, though not in form, for he had talked on a previous day. Just

as if he was obliged to say any thing to assist the prosecutors except to answer their questions.'

"General Howard believes Cadet Smith to be a good, honest boy. I believe the same.

"Lieutenant Flipper seems to have gone back on his Atlanta friends. He came home from West Point with a

good Academy record, behaved himself with becoming dignity. The officers at the barracks treated him

not socially, but as an officer of the armywith due respect, as did the citizens of Atlanta, who felt that he

had won credit by his good conduct and success. But in an evil hour the colored friends (?) of Flipper gave

him a reception, and in full uniform he made them a speech. Now speechmaking is a dangerous thing, and

this colored warrior seems to have been made a victim of it. He distorted the official courtesies of the officers

at the barracks into social courtesies, and abused the white people of the South because they did not give him

and his race social equality. Not only were sensible colored people displeased with his remarks, but many

white citizens who went to the meeting friendly to Flipper left disgusted with his sentiments."*

*If a man walks on the streets with me, invites me to his quarters, introduces me to his comrades, and other

like acts of courtesy, ought I to consider him treating me socially or officially? I went to the garrison in

Atlanta to pay my respects to the commanding officer. I expected nothing. I met an officer, who, with four

others, had introduced himself to me on the cars. My official call had been made. He took me around,

introduced me to the officers, and showed me all possible attention. I met another officer in the city several

days after this. He offered cigars. We walked up and down the streets together. Many times did we hear and

comment upon the remarks we overheard: "Is he walking with that nigger?" and the like. He invited me into a

druggist's to take some soda water. I went in and got it, although it was never sold there before to a person

of color. We rode out to the garrison together, and every attention was shown me by all. Another officer told

me that before I came the officers of the garrison assembled to consider whether or not they should recognize

me. The unanimous vote was "yes." Was all this official? No. It is the white people, the disappointed tyrants

of Georgia, who try to distort social courtesies in official ones. The "many white" people were some

halfdozen newspaper reporters, whose articles doubtless were partly written when they came. "Old Si" in his

"Lieutenant Flipper is his name. He is a living result of the policy of Radicalism which has declared from the

first its determination that, under any circumstances, the American citizen of African descent shall enjoy all

the privileges of his white brethren. Carrying out this determination, and not dismayed at the fate of colored

cadet Smith, who figured so largely in West Point annals a few years ago, cadet Flipper was sent to that

institution to try his hand. He has graduated, and now holds the commission of Second Lieutenant of Cavalry

in the United States Army, the first of his race who has ever attained such a position.

"It will be curious to watch young Flipper's career as an officer. Time was when army officers were a very

aristocratic and exclusive set of gentlemen, whether they still hold to their old ideas, or not, we do not know.

There seems to be enough of the old feeling left, however, to justify the belief that until some other

descendants of African parents graduate at the institution, Flipper will have a lonely time. During his

cadetship, we learn from no less an authority than the New York Tribune, 'the paper founded by Horace

Greeley,' that he was let severely alone by his fellowstudents. According to that paper, one of the cadets

said, 'We have no feeling against him, but we could not associate with him. It may have been prejudice but

still we couldn't do it.' This shows very clearly the animus which will exist in the army against the colored

officer. If at West Point, where he had to drill, recite, eat, and perhaps sleep with his white brothers, they

couldn't associate with him (notwithstanding the fact that the majority of these whites were Northern men and

ardent advocates of Radicalism, with its civil rights and social equality record), how can it be expected that

they will overcome their prejudices any more readily after they become officers. The Tribune thinks they

will, and that in time the army will not hesitate to receive young Flipper, and all of his race who may

hereafter graduate at West Point, with open arms; but the chances are that the Tribune is wrong. Your model

Yankee is very willing to use the negro as a hobby horse upon which to ride into place and power, but when

it comes to inviting him to his house and embracing him as a brother he is very apt to be found wanting. The

only society Lieutenant of Cavalry Flipper can ever hope to enjoy is that which will exist when there are

enough of his race in the army to form a corps d'Afrique, and by that time he will be too old to delight in

social pleasures. Meanwhile he will be doomed to a life of solitude and selfcommunings, and be subjected

to many such snubs as the venerable Frederick Douglass has but recently received at the hands of that

The New York Tribune is right. The army is officered by men, not by West Point cadets, who are only

"The miscegenationists and social equality advocates are making a great deal of noise over the facts, first,

that a negro has graduated at West Point, and holds today a commission in the United States Army; and

second, that when he went up to receive his diploma, he was, alone of all the members of his class, the

recipient of a round of applause. Great things are augured from these two circumstances, especially the latter.

"It is reasoned that now, that a negro has at last been able to secure a commission in the military service of

the country, the first step towards the recognition of his race on the basis of social equality is accomplished,

by degrees prejudice will wear away, and, in course of time, black and white citizens of this republic will

mingle freely and without reserve; and this, it is claimed, is shown by the applause with which the reception

into the army of this African pioneer was greeted. For our part we don't see that these negro devotees and

miscegenationists have any reason to rejoice. It is just as impossible to establish perfect social equality

between the AngloSaxon and African races as it is to make oil and water unite. It is against nature, and

nowhere in the world is the antipathy to such a mingling shown more than in the North, and by no people so

strongly as by the very men who whine so incessantly and so pretentiously about 'men and brethren.' The

negro in the South has always found the white man of the South to be his best and truest friend, and such will

always be the case, notwithstanding that the Southern white will never consent to social equality with his

"As to the applause which greeted Flipper, that can easily be accounted for. Nothing is more likely than that

at West Point there should have been gathered together a lot of oldtime Southhaters, who were ready to

applaud, not so much to flatter Flipper as to show that they were happy over what they felt to be a still further

"We have no objections to such demonstrations of delight. As far as we are concerned they may be indulged

in to the heart's content by those who so desire. But one piece of information we can give to the young

colored Georgia lieutenant. If he thinks those who applauded him are going to invite him to their houses he

will be greatly disappointed. And if he does not die of overeating until those invite him to dine with them, he

will live to a good old age. Let him take the fate of the recognized leader of his race, Fred Douglass, as an

example, and steer clear of his too demonstrative friends. Experience shows that so long as they can use him,

they will be very profuse in their professions of friendship; but when that is done all is done, and he will find

himself completely cast aside. If Flipper sees these words, let him mark our prediction."

"And many false prophets shall arise, and deceive many" (Matt. 24:11). Amen. That is all that article is

"When Congress founded West Point, to be a training school for those who were to be paid as public servants

and to wear the public livery, we do not think that it was intended that the institution should serve as a hotbed

for the fostering of aristocratic prejudices and the assumption of aristocratic airs. Nor do we think that when

Lincoln declared the negro a freeman, and entitled to a freeman's rights, either he or the nation designed that

the dusky skin of the enfranchised slave should serve as an excuse for ignominy, torture, and disgrace. Yet

here, this year, in the graduating class from West Point, steps a young man among his white skinned

fellows, fiftieth in a class of seventysix members, whose four years of academic life have been one long

martyrdom; who has stood utterly alone, ignored and forsaken among his fellows; who has had not one

helping hand from professors or students to aid him in fighting his hard battle, and whom only his own talents

and sturdy pluck have saved from entire oblivion. Yet in spite of all, he was graduated; he has left twentysix

white students behind him; he is a second lieutenant in the regular army, and the story of his struggles and his

hardwon victory is known from Oregon to Florida. All honor to the first of his race who has stemmed the

"We do not think the faculty at West Point have done their duty in this matter. One word, one example from

them, would have stopped the persecution, and it is to their disgrace that no such word was spoken and no

I have not a world to say against any of the professors or instructors who were at West Point during the

period of my cadetship. I have every thing to say in their praise, and many things to be thankful for. I have

felt perfectly free to go to any officer for assistance, whenever I have wanted it, because their conduct toward

me made me feel that I would not be sent away without having received whatever help I may have wanted.

All I could say of the professors and officers at the Academy would be unqualifiedly in their favor.