limarliindtf 1l}um % 1Intti^lUt0 Wtteijtnstan, Utttmbtt 7, 1910 mtli Htnm % to (Strman Hatinn J^ntaham, &fttJj»ib«r 2, 1911 tlilihll 111 I 1 J1 nilii»!!iriLiilim»lliiimilUll-1 g 'i-ft ^ ^-5- -[ ..l.-\-.'..g- E207.S8 U59 " ""'™™«1' Library Overs ^2 '/^l '^j. Cornell University Library The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924032738134 STEUBEN MONUMENT, LAFAYETTE PARK, WASHINGTON, D. C, U.5 PROCEEDINGS UPON THE UNVEILING OF THE STATUE OF BARON VON STEUBEN MAJOR GENERAL AND INSPECTOR GENERAL IN THE CONTINENTAL ARMY DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR IN WASHINGTON, D. C, DECEMBER 7, 1910 AND UPON THE PRESENTATION OF THE REPLICA TO HIS MAJESTY THE GERMAN EMPEROR AND THE GERMAN NATION IN POTSDAM, SEPTEMBER 2, 1911 ERECTED BY THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES COMPILED BY GEORGE H. CARTER AND PRINTED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE ON PRINTING ft ^.imn CONTENTS Page. Authority to print proceedings 4 Washington and Steuben letters 6 The Steuben Statue Commission 8 Description of the Steuben Statue in Washington, D. C 9 Unveiling ceremonies, Washington, December 7, 1910 15 Order of exercises 16 Invocation by Rev. Charles F. Steck, D. D., pastor of the Evan- gelical Lutheran Church of the Epiphany, Washington 17 Address of Hon. Richard Bartholdt, Member of Congress from Missouri and author of the SteubEN statue legislation 19 Address of Dr. Charles J. Hexamer, of Philadelphia, president of the National German- American Alliance 29 Address of Count Johann Heinrich von Bemstorff, the German ambassador to the United States 43 Unveiling of the statue by Miss Helen Taft 47 Address of the President of the United States, William Howard Taft 49 Benediction by Rev. William T. Russell, D. D., pastor of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Washington 52 Newspaper comment on the unveiling, parade, and attendant ceremonies in Washington 55 Presentation op the bronze replica op the Steuben Statue to His Majesty the German Emperor and the German Nation, Potsdam, September z, igii 69 Proceedings in the Continental Congress and the Congress of THE United- States relating to Baron Steuben 85 Steuben's burial place, town of Steuben, N. Y 201 Portraits and relics of Steuben owned by various societies, museums, and persons 209 Bibliography of Baron Steuben, Library of Congress 217 Index 227 3 AUTHORITY TO PRINT Houss Concurrent Rbsolution No. 3, Sixty-second Congress Passed, House, August 7, 1911; Senate, August 21, 1911 Resolved by the House of Representatives {the Senate concurring). That there shall be printed and bound in the form of eulogies, with accompanying illus- trations, seventeen thousand one hundred copies of the proceedings upon the unveiling of the statue of Baron voN Steuben in Washington, December seventh, nineteen hundred and ten, of which five thousand shall be for the use of the Senate, ten thousand for the use of the House of Representatives, two thousand to be delivered to the National German-American Alliance for such distribution as said alliance may desire to make, and the remaining one hundred copies shall be boimd in full morocco and distributed through the Department of State to the descendants of Baron voN Steuben and the speakers who took part in said celebration. House Concurrent Resolution No. 39, Sixty-second Congress Passed, House, March 26, 1912; Senate, April 2, 1912 Resolved by the House of Representatives {the Senate concurring), That the conciurent resolution passed August twenty-first, nineteen hundred and eleven, providing for the printing of the proceedings upon the unveiling of the statue of Baron voN SteubEN in Washington, December seventh, nineteen hundred and ten, be amended by adding the following sentence after the last word thereof: "There shall be included in the same volume, as herein provided for, the proceedings relating to the imveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben in Berlin, September second, nineteen hundred and eleven; and this docu- ment shall be compiled and printed under the direction of the Joint Com- mittee on Printing." ILLUSTRATIONS Facing page— Baron von Steuben Monument, Lafayette Park, Wash- ington Frontispiece. The Steuben Statue Commission 8 Mr. Albert Jaegers, the scui,ptor 9 Steuben Statue, Lafayette Park monument 14 "Military instruction," group on Lafayette Park monument. . . " Commemoration, " group on Lafayette Park monument Steuben 's aids-de-camp, medallion on Lafayette Park monument . 1 5 Hon. Richard Bartholdt, Member of Congress prom Missouri. 19 Dr. Charles J. Hexamer, of Philadelphia, President of the National German-American Alliance 29 Count Johann Heinrich von Bernstorff, the German ambassa- dor to the United States 42 Miss Helen Taft 46 His Excellency William Howard Taft, President of the United States 48 Unveiling of the Steuben Monument, Lafayette Park, Wash- ington; President Taft speaking 54 Maj. Gen. W. H. Carter, United States Army, grand marshal OP THE Steuben parade, Washington, December 7, 1910 55 His Majesty William II, the German Emperor, King of Prus- sia, ETC : 68 Scene at Potsdam presentation ceremonies, His Majesty Wil- liam II accepting the Steuben replica from the American envoys 72 American envoys who presented the replica to the German Emperor — Hon. Richard Bartholdt, M. C, op Missouri, and Hon. Charles B. Wolpfram, of New York 73 Bronze replica op the Steuben Statue, Potsdam, Germany 82 Steuben's log house in town op Steuben, near Remsen, N. Y. . 202 Steuben's grave and monument, town op Steuben, N. Y 203 Steuben's coat op arms 204 Steuben memorial tablet in the German Evangelical Reformed Church, Sixty-eighth street. New York City 205 Baron Steuben, from a life painting by Ralph Earle, owned BY Mrs. Francis B. Austin, of Summit, N. J 208 Gold snuff box presented to Steuben with the freedom op THE City of New York; his gold watch and chain, and his KNEE buckles 210 Steuben's service and dress swords and his gold-headed cane. . 211 Liquor case and glasses which accompanied Steuben during the Revolutionary War 212 Facsimile of Steuben's signature 213 5 WASHINGTON AND STEUBEN (lyCtters from the "Steuben Papers'* in the New York Historical Society) Annapolis deer. 23d. 1783. My Dear Baron Altho' I have taken frequent Opporttinities both in public and private, of Acknowledging your great Zeal Attention and Abilities in performing the duties of your Office: yet, I wish, to make use, of this last Moment of my public Life, to Signify in the strongest terms, my intire Approbation of your Conduct, and to express my Sense of the Obligations the public is under to you for your faithful, and Meritorious Services. I begyou will be convincd, my dear Sir, thati should rejoice, if it could ever be in my power, to serve you more essentially, than by expressionsof regard and Affection — ^but in the mean time, I am persuaded you will not be displeased, with this farewell token, of my Sincere Friendship and Esteem for you — This, is the last letter I shall ever write, while I continue in the Service of my Country — ^the hour of my Resignation is fixed at twelve this day — after which, I shall become a private Citizen on the Banks of the Potomack , where I shall be glad to embrace you , and testify the great Esteem and Consideration, with which, I am My Dear Baron Your most Obedt. and Affectn. Servt. (Signed) G". Washington. The Honble Major Genl. Baron de Steoben My Dear General The letter of December 23d which I have had the honor of receiving from Your Excellency, is the most honorable testimony which my services coidd have received. My first wish was to approve myself to Your Excellency, & in having obtained it, my happiness is complete. The Confidence Yoiu: Excellency was pleased to place in my integrity & ability gained me that of the army & of the United States Your approbation will sectu-e it. A stranger to the language & customs of the Country, I had nothing to offer in my favor but a little experience & great good will to serve the United States; If my endeavours have succeeded I owe it to Your Excellency's protection, & it is a sufficient reward for me to know that I have been useful in Your Excel- lency's Operations which always tended to the good of Your country. After having studied the principles of the military art tinder Frederick, & put them in practice tmder Washington, after having deposited my sword under the same trophies of Victory with yours, & finally after having received this lastpublic testimony of your esteem, tiiereremainsnothing for me to desire. Accept my sincere thanks. My dear General for the unequivocal proofs of your friendship which I have received since I had first the honor to receive your orders; & believe that I join my prayers to those of America for the preser- vation of your life, & for the increase of your felicity. With every sentiment of respect, I have the honor to be Your Excellency's Obedient Steuben [Indorsed,] Copy to Gen. Washington, Jany 1784. 6 THE STATUE LAFAYETTE PARK WASHINGTON, D. C. THE STEUBEN STATUE COMMISSION Created by act of Congress February 27, 1903. Hon. JACOB M. DICKINSON, SECRETARY OF WAR. Hon. GEORGE P. WETMORE, CHAIRMAN OP THE COMMITTEE ON THE LIBRARY OF THE SENATE- Hon. JAMES T. McCLEARY, CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE ON THE LIBRARY OF THE HOUSE OP REPEESENTATTVES OF THE FIFTY-SEVENTH CONGRESS. Coi,. SPENCER COSBY, United States Army, EXECUTIVE AND DISBURSING OFFICER. W. R. PEDIGO, SECRETARY. THE SCULPTOR. ALBERT JAEGERS. -'Hon JAMES T.MSCLEARY -; Chairm-an, ; I Committee on the Library, | ~ ,houc"-^^^" — '■--*-^---^ 8 L Col. SPENCER C05BY,U5.A. Executive and Disbursing Officer. The Vo.'^ SteubfwH Statue Co.^hissio.^ . MR. ALBERT JAEGERS, The sculptor. THE STATUE The act of Congress approved February 27, 1903, appro- priated the sum of $50,000 for procuring and erecting a statue of Frederick WiIvLiam Augustus Henry Ferdi- nand, Baron von SteubEN, major general and Inspector General in the Continental Army. The act provided that this sum should be expended under the direction of a com- mission to be composed of the Secretary of War, the chair- man of the Committee on the Library of the Senate, and the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress. In July, 1905, competition was invited for the statue, and six artists submitted models in October, one of the competitors submitting two models. In December, 1905, the commission selected three of the models as satisfactory and requested the three artists to submit larger models of their figures for final selection. Only two of the artists entered the second competition, from which a final selec- tion was made in May, 1906. The commission, upon the advice of a committee of ex- perts headed by the late Augustus St. Gaudens, selected the model of the statue submitted by Albert Jaegers, of New York. On January 10, 1907, a contract was entered into by the commission with Mr. Jaegers for furnishing and erecting the monument at the northwest comer of Lafayette Park in Washington, D. C. In designing the monument the sculptor, with his asso- ciate architect, T. R. Johnson, consulted Cass Gilbert, the New York architect. Taking into consideration the loca- tion of the monument in Lafayette Park, they have brought it into harmony with the general scale and mass of the monuments already erected there, while adapting the design to the prevailing classic tendency of monumental works in the city. lo Statue of Baron von Steuben The working model of the statue was completed in May, 1907, and approved by the commission. In June, 1908, the model of one of the two bronze side groups was approved, and in December of the same year that of the second side group was approved. The full-size model of the statue was approved September i, 1909, and the bronze casting of it was received in Washington on April 30, 19 10, and placed in the storehouse of public buildings and grounds for safe-keeping until the pedestal was ready to receive it. In June, 1 9 10, the full-size model of one of the two bronze side groups was approved, and on September 19, 19 10, the full-size model of the second side group was approved by the commission. The foundation for the pedestal was constructed in Sep- tember, and on October 24, 19 10, the setting of the granite of the pedestal was commenced. This work was completed in November, and the bronze statue and side groups were put in place during that month. The mound around the base of the pedestal was inclosed with a granite coping, and new walks around the statue were constructed and paved with asphalt. All other necessary preparations for the unveiling cere- monies, such as issuing invitations, preparing the program, erecting and decorating stands, etc., were carried out by the office of Public Buildings and Grounds in charge of Col. Spencer Cosby, United States Army, and the statue was unveiled on December 7, 1910. The speakers at the dedi- cation were the President, the German ambassador, the Hon. Richard Bartholdt, and Dr. Charles J. Hexamer, president of the National German-American Alliance. The grading and sodding of the grounds around the statue were finished in March, 191 1. Some finishing work was done in May, which practically completed the surround- ings of the monument. The amount expended to June 30, 191 1, on account of the construction of this statue was $49,640.39. The cost of unveiling and dedicating the statue was $2,500, which The Statue 1 1 amount was appropriated in the sundry civil act approved June 25, 1910. SCULPTOR'S DESCRIPTION The following is the sculptor's description of the monu- ment: In the statue the general appears standing on an eminence inspecting the great maneuvers of 1778. He is heavily cloaked to endure the hardships of the rigorous winter campaign at Valley Forge. The sash is reminiscent of his service on the staff of Frederick the Great; his hand lightly at rest on the hilt of his sword, he is following with keen interest the unfolding movement of the troops. The group "Military instruction" represents Steuben's life work, the work for which this Nation honors and remembers him — the drilling and training of the American Army. An experienced warrior is shown instruct- ing a youth in the use of the sword. In the second group, "Commemoration," America is teaching youth to honor the memory of her heroes. A foreign branch is grafted into the tree of her national life. She welds to her heart the foreigner who has cast his life and fortune with the weal and woe of her people, embodying the idea of unity and fraternity of all nationalities under the guidance of a great Republic. The base of the monument is 21 feet 4 inches square, 2 feet 4 inches in height, and rests on concrete footings 4 feet in depth. The base supports a central shaft 17 feet /\.% inches in height, thus making the bronze figure stand on a pedestal 19 feet 4^ inches from the grass mound at the base, which moimd is 4 inches above the concreted base and 6 inches above the northwest edge of the encir- cling granite coping adjacent to the walk. The bronze statue measures ii feet in height, making an over-all height of approximately 31 feet. The monmnent is made of Stony Creek granite, from the Connecticut shores of I/ong Island Sound. In color it has a decidedly pinkish tone enriched by variegated streaks of a darker hue. The effect of this granite is very much enhanced when wet, during rainy weather, seeming to give better support to the dark browns of the bronze statue above. The finish of the surface of the granite is that of a "fine tool cut." 1 2 Statue of Baron von Steuben The statue figure, the two allegorical figures on the side pedestals, with additional ornaments in relief, and all let- tering are in bronze, of a quality in accordance with United States Government specifications. LOCATION OF THE STATUE The Steuben Monument is located at the northwest comer of Lafayette Park, facing up Connecticut Avenue, and is one of five commemorative statues which have been erected in this park. The present arrangement of these monuments, placed one at the center and one at each comer of the park, has been the result of circumstance rather than of plan. In 1891 the statue to be erected to the memory of Gen. Lafayette was designed for a site fronting on Pennsylvania Avenue on the center line of the park. After the foundations were under construction a strong protest arose against interposing any momrment between the White House and the statue of Gen. Jackson, which had held the place of honor in the center of the park since 1857. In consequence, a new site for the Lafayette Monument was selected at the southeast comer of the park, where it would not distract attention from the statue of Gen. Jackson and yet occupy a commanding position on the Avenue. As might have been expected, the necessity was at once felt for a similar statue to be placed at the soixthwest cor- ner of the park to complete the architectural balance of the composition as seen from the White House; and in 1902 there was erected on that site the statue of Gen. Rochambeau, copatriot with Lafayette in offering his sword to Washington, and participating with him in the siege and capture of Yorktown. Revolutionary interest being thus established in this park, it seemed but a natural sequence that, when a statue was to be erected to the memory of the famous Polish patriot and general who served with the Americans in the Revolution, it should be associated with those of The Statue 13 Lafayette and Rochambeau. Therefore the statue to Kosciuszko, in 1910, was given a corresponding site at the northeast comer of the park, leaving but the one site, at the northwest comer, unoccupied. To whom could this final site be more justly consecrated than to the German nobleman who came to this cotmtry's assistance in 1777 and at a most crucial time in its history accepted from Washington the post of Inspector General and worked indefatigably with him in reorganizing the Army of the Republic ? In 1910 the statue to Baron von SteubEN was erected on this site, completing the group of statues commemorating those generals of other nations who made om- cause their own and whose names shall be always linked with the great struggle which gave to this country its inde- pendence. In addition to the Revolutionary interest thus attached to this park the surrounding neighborhood is rich in asso- ciations of a personal nature. The residence on Jackson Place directly opposite the statue of Steuben is that formerly occupied by Commodore Stephen Decatur, who died there, March 22, 1820, from wounds received in a duel with Commodore Barron. Among other distinguished men who lived in the Decatur house were Henry Clay, Martin Van Buren, Edward Livingston, George M. Dallas, and Edward F. Beale. Directly north of the statue, on H Street, is the house formerly occupied by Daniel Webster, when Secretary of State, and later by W. W. Corcoran, whose name will always be associated with the art gallery presented by him to the Capital City. The house next east, No. 1607 H Street, is that formerly occupied by Hon. Daniel Eamont, Secretary of War during President Cleveland's administration; and farther east on H Street is the residence of the late John Hay, Secretary of State imder President McKinley. The house No. 22 Jackson Place was used as an office by Presi- dent Roosevelt and his executive staff during the renova- tion of the White House from June to November, 1902. 14 Statue of Baron von Steuben St. John's Church, facing the park at Sixteenth Street, is so well known for the many distinguished persons who have attended divine worship there, including Presidents Madison, Monroe, John Quincy Adams, Jackson, Van Buren, Harrison, Tyler, Fillmore, Buchanan, and Arthur, that it might almost be grouped with the White House and the State, War, and Navy Building in mentioning the historical setting of this famous and beautiful park. No place richer in sentiment, beauty, and historical interest could have been selected for the location of the statue commemorative of Gen. VON Steuben. THE SCULPTOR Albert Jaegers, the sculptor, was bom March 28, 1868, in Elberfeld, Germany. He came to Cincirmati, Ohio, while still a child. Engaged in ecclesiastical work, he at the same time studied at the school of design there in the evening. After a practical course in an architect's office, he entered no other school or studio here or abroad thereafter, becoming entirely self-taught in his profession. In 1889 Mr, Jaegers went to New York, and married a year later Matilda Holdt, a student of art from Cincinnati. A member of the National Sculpture Society, he won competitions inaugurated and decided by it, such as a United States silver dollar coin design and the Hamilton Fish tablet for Columbia College, New York. Mr. Jaegers executed many private and public works for Buffalo, St. lyouis, and New York before he was called upon by the Government to submit, in competition with a number of eminent sculptors, a Steuben monument design. STATUE OF BARON VON STEUBEN, Lafayette Park Monument, Washington, D. C. "MILITARY INSTRUCTION" Allegorical group on Steuben Monument, Washington, D. C, "COMMEMORATION" Allegorical group on Steuben Monument, Washington, D. C. MEDALLION ON STEUBEN MONUMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C. THE UNVEILING WASHINGTON, D. C. DECEMBER 7, 1910 ORDER OF EXERCISES Hon. J acob M. Dickinson, Secretary op War, Presiding Opening Song Northeastern Singers' Association Invocation Rev. Charles F. Steck, D. D. Address Hon. Richard Bartholdt Member of Congress Address Dr. Charles J. Hexamer President National German- American Alliance Song . Northeastern Singers' Association Address . Count J. H. von BemstorfE The German Ambassador UNVEaiNG OF MONUMENT .... Miss Helen Taft Star Spangi,ed Banner . . Northeastern Singers' Association Accompanied by United States Marine Band Salute Battery E, Third Field Artillery Introduction OF THE SCULPTOR, Mr. ALBERT JaEGERS. Address . The President of the United States Benediction Rev. William T. Russell, D. D. Parade Troops and German-American Societies Mai. Gen. W. H. Carter. Grand Marshal i6 INVOCATION By Rev. Charles F. Steck, D. D., pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Epiphany, Washington, D. C. Almighty and everlasting God — our God and the God of our fathers — ^who art worthy to be held in reverence by all the children of men, it is meet, right, and salutary that we shoidd at all times, and in all places, give thanks unto Thee, who art our creator, preserver, and bountiful benefactor. We adore Thee as the Sovereign Ruler of the universe, the King immortal, eternal, and invisible, the only wise God, and to Thee we give honor and glory. We worship Thee as the One in whom we live, and move, and have our being. We praise Thee for Thy goodness, and bless Thee for the benefits, both spiritual and temporal, which Thou hast so abvmdantly bestowed upon us. We call to mind in this hour the days of old, and give thanks to Thee for the sacred memories which this occasion awakens. We bless Thee for the foreign friend who, moved of Thee, came to help us repel a foreign foe, and whose signal services to our Nation in the dark extremity of its youth we have come together to commemorate. Continue to bestow upon us, we beseech Thee, the gracious favor we have hitherto enjoyed, and, with all affection and appreciation, may we, guided and sustained by Thee, labor to preserve, augment, and perpetuate the vast national fortune we have inherited, whose foundation was laid in what our fathers and our fathers' friends, through sacrifice, and battle, and blood, achieved. To Thee they looked for the justification of their course, and Thou didst own and bless them, and to Thee we also look for instruction, direction, and support. 84647°— 14 2 ly 1 8 Statue of Baron von Stetiben Most heartily we commend to Thy gracious care Thy servants, the President of the United States and those who are associated with him in the national administration; the Members of the Congress, the Commissioners of this District, and all our judges and magistrates. So endue them with Thy grace that they may fulfill their offices in accordance with Thy good pleasure, to the maintenance of righteousness and to the hindrance and punishment of wickedness, that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and hon- esty. Look with favor upon the foreign representatives who dwell among us and upon the nations from which they come accredited, and with these and with all the peoples of the earth may we continue to be at peace ; and hasten the coming of the day when governments shall submit their differences to the arbitrament of mind rather than of might, and war shall no more be learned. Bless those who are to address us to-day, and the societies and organizations here represented, and all the people, and may these exercises be a means of binding us all, of whatever tongue or walk in life, more closely in the ties which unite us as citizens of these United States. We ask these things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have the forgiveness of sin, and by virtue of whose mighty achievements as the Captain of our salvation we may become citizens of even a better country, that is, an heav- enly, Jesus Christ, who taught us to say: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. HON. RICHARD BARTHOLDT, Member of Congress from Missouri and author of the Steuben Statue legislation. ADDRESS OF HON. RICHARD BARTHOLDT Mr. President and Feli^ow Citizens: When the Declaration of Independence was read in Philadelphia the whole civilized world listened, the rulers with misgivings, the peoples with exultant hope. It was the greatest political deliverance in history, and served notice on both the governed and those who govern that freedom, resting not on institutions but on the necessities of human nature, is no mere abstract idea, but a vital principle of national life. France imme- diately responded, the people with their honest sympa- thies and the monarch with his material aid; the latter prompted by his hostility to Great Britain, the former inspired by the writings of Voltaire and Rousseau for the cause of democracy and liberty. Many other covmtries, from various motives, seemed ready to extend their moral support to the Colonies, and many tongues were represented by the men who came to draw their swords for freedom's sake. History tells us that among the men who came from foreign lands there was none who rendered more valuable service to the cause of American independence than did that brave Prussian soldier whose memory a grateful country honors to-day, Baron Steuben. As one of the military godfathers of this Nation, his name is indissolubly linked with the stormy events incident to its birth, and his name and achievements are a monument more imperishable than this statue of bronze in the annals of his adopted country and in the hearts of his countrymen. 19 20 Statue of Baron von Steuben American independence was achieved through love of liberty, through military skill, and through courage and unswerving fidelity to the cause, and it was maintained through the wisdom of statesmanship which made the experiment of self-government a success. All these superb qualities were essential to the final triumph, and the lack of either one would have spelled failure. Historians agree that in Washington these qualities were found combined; that he excelled in them all. Steuben's opportunities were limited to the display of military knowledge and the exercise of soldierly skill. His was a master mind when it came to meet the requirements of organization, fundamental tactics, and strategy. But there was something else in him. We can not read the darker chapters of the struggle for independence without becoming deeply impressed with those qualities of which the poet says: "If they were not as old as the world, I believe a German would have invented them," namely, loyalty and perseverance. No American patriot could have been more unfalteringly true and more stubbornly faithful to the cause of the Colonies and none more courageously sanguine as to the final outcome than was that rugged soldier of two worlds. It seemed as if his power of resistance grew in proportion with the difficulties and obstacles which confronted the colonists, and his own confidence, together with the order and discipline and economv which he enforced, became at once the comfort and consolation of his equals and superiors, and the inspira- tion of the rank and file of the Army. Let history speak for itself. Frederick Wilhelm August von Steuben came to this country, after a stormy Address of Hon. Richard Bartholdt 21 passage, on December i, 1777. He was then 47 years old, and, as the descendant of a military family, had practically been a soldier since his fourteenth year, when he accom- panied his father in a most strenuous and bloody campaign. Reared in the rigorous military school of Frederick the Great, he entered the King's army at the age of 26, and participated in nearly all the great battles of the Seven Years' War. I/ater he became adjutant general of Frederick the Great, and in this position had occasion to thoroughly familiarize himself with the important tasks of providing for and equipping the troops, of securing and caring for arms and ammunition, of their inspection and control, and of the drilling and training of soldiers — the very essentials which later made his services so invaluable in the Revolutionary War. At the end of the Seven Years' War he was granted a comfortable pension, which would have enabled him to live a life of ease for the rest of his days, but on a visit to Paris he became acquainted with several prominent men of the French coiurt, and also with Benjamin FrankUn, the Ameri- can emissary, who tried to prevail on him to offer his services to Gen. Washington. At that particular time things looked rather blue for the colonists. In spite of his masterly strategy and the bravery and self-sacrificing spirit of his troops, Washington had been forced to retreat from New York, through New Jersey, and across the Delaware, and camped with an army diminished and discouraged, and incapable of larger undertakings, in Pennsylvania. The cause of all the reverses had mainly been the lack of disci- pline. Up to that time American soldiers had fought only against Indians, which, it is true, caused them to excel in marksmanship, in skirmishing, and in the ability to undergo great hardships, but they could not well hold their own in 22 Statue of Baron von Steuben open battle against the well-trained British. The French Government was fully aware of that fact, and it also recognized that Baron Steuben, the pupil of Frederick the Great, would be the right sort of man to create order out of chaos, to prop- erly drill and equip the American Army and make it equal to any emergency. The appeals in behalf of American freedom foimd an echo in SteubEn's heart and he accepted the offers made to him. When, after a voyage of more than two months, he landed at Portsmouth, the first news he received was of important American successes in the State of New York, and of the surrender of the English general, Burgoyne, -with his whole army. New York, Philadelphia, and nearly the whole coast, however, were still in the possessidn of the British, and Washington's army was nearly frozen and starved to death in winter quarters at Valley Forge. Steu- ben was ever5rwhere received with due honors. Congress readily accepted the offer of his services as a vol- unteer, granted him the rank of major general, and intrusted him with the task to drill the troops and establish better order in the commissary and other departments. On the way to Valley Forge SteubEN and his retinue came through Lancaster, where the many Germans residing there accorded him a royal welcome. Gen. Washington, too, received him most cordially and with all the honors due an officer of high rank. The winter quarters presented a most sorrowful appearance. The troops were in want of practically every- thing — clothing, provisions, arms, and ammunition; and discipline and military order seemed unknown. When the enlistment of a soldier had expired he took musket and uniform home with liim ; if fatigued, he threw away whatever was btu-densome to him. There were 5,000 muskets more on paper than were required, yet many soldiers were without Address of Hon. Richard Bartholdt 23 them. Steuben's first task was, therefore, to inaugurate a system of control over the needs and supply of arms, and, in course of time, he succeeded in carrying this control to such perfection that, on his last inspection before he left the Army, there were but three muskets missing, and even those could be accounted for. In drilling the troops the Inspector General at first experi- enced great difficulties on account of his deficient knowledge of English. The story goes that on one occasion, when he could not express himself with enough vigor, he turned to one of his oflScers and begged him to swear at the stupid troops for him. But he carried on the exercises with characteristic perseverance and every morning used to rise at 3 o'clock and have all soldiers pass muster. Of course, he could not en- force the same rigid discipline as in the Prussian Army, but his good common sense suggested to him the right means to achieve the most favorable results. In the following cam- paign the good order brought about in the Army became apparent in many ways. A work of special merit was Steuben's Regulations for the Army, which he wrote in the heat of the campaign, and which, after its approval by Washington and Congress, became the miUtary textbook of this country imder the title " Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States." After he had been at Valley Forge, Morristown, West Point, and in a number of engagements as Inspector General and Chief of Staff, he was sent South, immediately following the tmfortvmate Battle of Camden, on August 16, 1780, against which another German, Gen. De Kalb, had warned Gen. Gates in vain and in which De Kalb died a heroic death. Steuben was to raise troops in Virginia in support of Gen. Nathanael Greene, who had gone to the Carolinas, and that 24 Statue of Baron von Steuben proved by far the saddest of his American experiences, owing to the indifference of and lack of support from the people of Virginia. To Gov. Jefferson's repeated calls but few new recruits responded, and on one occasion out of 500 men promised by the governor only 7 appeared in Steuben's camp, and 2 of those deserted before the day was over. Whole companies were decimated by desertions, and even the few who remained lacked clothing, food, ammunition, and arms. But not once, even in the face of these distress- ing circumstances, did Steuben lose heart. Where him- dreds of others in his place would have given up, he stood his ground and succeeded, from time to time, in sending Gen. Greene the much-needed succor. When the American Army was finally organized in accord- ance with Steuben's plan, he asked for an independent com- mand, which, however, despite Washington's earnest recom- mendation, the Congress refused to give him, owing to jealousies and intrigues. Even this mortification could not sway him from the conscientious performance of his duties as Inspector General; in fact, in each instance his sense of duty triumphed over his disappointments. But fate had reserved a great satisfaction for him. It so happened that Gen. Comwallis, the commander in chief of the last formi- dable British army, capitulated to that brave German soldier. In the fall of 1781 Comwallis was besieged at Yorktown, Va., by the French auxiliary fleet on the one side and by the united American Army on the other. Gen. Washington, who from first to last had implicit confidence in and admira- tion for Gen. Steuben, had given him a temporary com- mand, and so it happened that while Steuben was command- ing in the trenches the English general ofi'ered capitulation. When, the next day, Lafayette appeared to relieve him. Address of Hon. Richard Bartholdt 25 Steuben refused to give up the command. " It is a recog- nized rule of war," he said, "that the ofl&cer who receives the first offer of capitulation must remain at his post until the negotiations are concluded." Lafayette appealed to Gen. Washington, but he decided the controversy in favor of Steuben. This, my friends, is but a meager account of Baron Steu- ben's great achievements, but enough has been disclosed to satisfy us that he is worthy of the lasting gratitude of the American people. What he was he was through himself. He had to conquer every foot of ground, and for years his fellow officers, with a few honorable exceptions, regarded him with distrust and enmity until he could beat a path and by his own merit overcome the prejudices of his com- rades. His services were from beginning to end acts of personal renimciation, and only the satisfaction of duty well performed, the growing prospects of final success, and probably the conviction that it wotdd be difficult for others to fill his particular place could inspire the loyalty and cheerfulness of his work. With him selfish considerations were ever pushed into the background by his regard for the public welfare and the sacredness of the cause. His life proved to be true what he wrote to Congress : When I drew my sword I made a solemn vow that only death could compel me to give up before Great Britain would recognize America's independence. The greatest honor a nation can bestow upon a historical character does not consist in glorifying and exalting him, but in doing him justice and in according to him the recog- nition honestly due him. It must, therefore, be a singular satisfaction to the present generation to know that Baron Steuben's worth and merits were highly appreciated and 26 Statue of Baron von Steuben honored even during his Hfetime. It is true there were protracted bickerings in Congress as to the final accounting, but in the end he was given a hfe pension and a gold-hilted sword, accompanied by the most flattering acknowledg- ments of his valuable services. The State of New York granted him 16,000 acres of land, Pennsylvania 2,000 acres, Virginia 15,000 acres, and New Jersey conveyed to him an estate in fee simple which had been confiscated from a Tory, which Steuben restored to the original owner, how- ever, the moment he learned that the man had been made a pauper by the confiscation. Pennsylvania also conferred on him honorary citizenship, and the cities of New York and Albany tendered him the freedom of the city, and New York presented him with a silver-hilted sword and a gold box besides. But what Steuben himself prized highest of all was a letter from his commander in chief. Gen. Washington, written at Annapolis on December 23, 1783, a few moments before he laid down his command. It was a testimonial more complimentary than any given to an officer of the Revolutionary Army, and the circum- stances under which it was written no less than its contents touched the heart of the old soldier most deeply. It read as follows : My Dear Baron: Although I have taken frequent opportunities, both public and private, to acknowledge your great zeal, attention, and abilities in performing the duties of your o£Bce, yet I wish to make use of this last moment of my public life to signify in the strongest terms my entire approba- tion of your conduct and to express my sense of the obligation the public is imder to you for your faithful and meritorious services. I beg you will be convinced, my dear sir, that I should rejoice if it could ever be in my power to serve you more essentially than by expressions of regard and affection, but in the meantime I am persuaded you will not be displeased with this farewell token of my sincere friendship and esteem for you. Address of Hon. Richard Bartholdt 27 This is the last letter I shall write while I continue in the service of my country. The hoiir of my resignation is fixed at 12 to-day, after which I shall become a private citizen on the banks of the Potomac, where I shall be glad to embrace you and testify the great esteem and consideration with which I am, my dear Baron, etc. To-day's event is posterity's patriotic response to these words of Steuben's greatest contemporary, and no other evidence was needed than the truth of history and this letter of the Father of the Country to justify Congress in author- izing the sculptor, Albert Jaegers, to create this beautiful monument. Unlike many other foreign oflScers, Baron Steuben never returned to his native coimtry but died on November 28, 1794, a true American patriot. His burial place near Utica is known to but few of the present generation, but this isolation in death seems to have been in accordance with his last wish. To-day he has been lifted from his obscure grave. His name is on the Ups of all, and the hearts and minds of a grateful Nation revere his memory, and why ? Not only because he happened to stand at the cradle of American independence and helped nurse it to a reality, but also because of his sterling qualities of character, which by means of this monument are held up as guiding stars to this and future generations. The virtues of loyalty and perseverance in the performance of duty count alike in peace and war, in a soldier and a citizen, and the one has as many opportimities to practice them as the other. The nation which exalts them exalts itself. The thousands of American citizens of German birth or descent whose pres- ence makes this a national German-American day are not here simply because the hero we honor was of their flesh and blood. They have come because Baron Steuben has shed luster on the German name by the display of qualities 28 Stattie of Baron von Steuben and virtues which they admire, and among those none has more powerfully thrilled their hearts than his example of unswerving loyalty to America. They rejoice, too, in the greatness and magnanimity of a people which in honoring its heroes nobly disregards national distinctions, and by placing all on a common high pedestal of fame lives up to the idealism of a common brotherhood under the flag of a free government. This is one of the lessons proclaimed in mute but eloquent words by the great monument we are unveiling to-day, and it is one which no son of the Republic, be he native bom or adopted, should ever forget. It reveals a vision of the grandeur of American ideals which should make better Americans of us all. DR. CHARLES J. HEXAMER, OF PHILADELPHIA, President of the National German-American Alliance. ADDRESS OF DR. CHARLES J. HEXAMER The second half of the eighteenth century was especially significant and important in the political and cultural devel- opment of mankind. Its momentous events, occurring in rapid succession, its great men, its bloody wars, its heroes from Frederick the Great on a throne down to the lowest ranks of the common people, and its scientists, scholars, and thinkers of all nationalities formed in vast array the advent of a new era. The portending signs and events found their culmination in the French Revolution, that gigantic broom that swept the cobwebs from the brains of men and re- moved by one fell stroke the accvunulated rubbish of many centuries. The Zeitgeist breathed the equaUty of man — equal rights and liberty for all. The seeds of coming nations were then sown and a new order of things was evolved. The events leading to the Revolution of the American Colo- nies, and finally culminating in the founding of our Republic, were some of the many influences which gave rise to the social upheaval in Europe. On the other hand, the excesses of the Reign of Terror in France exerted a beneficent influ- ence in moderating opinions in our young Republic; people learned that liberty did not mean license and that our Con- stitution stands for a masterful expression of the will of a free people imder salutary self-control. Among the many valuable sendees of Benjamin Franklin and the "Father of his Coimtry" must be mentioned that they recommended Baron von Steuben to Congress. The genius of Washington, with his knowledge of men and things, 29 30 Statue of Baron von Steuben intuitively grasped the true spirit of military discipline ; not only would it become a great help to the Army and its officers, and enable him to win battles, but he also felt that its influence would reach far into the future, when, after laying aside their arms, soldiers would again go about their peaceful pursuits, and the golden lessons of fidelity and dis- cipline, where every part works for the benefit of the whole, would finally spread throughout the broadest strata of the Nation. This was achieved, and was due in a great measure to "Washington's right arm," Baron von Steuben. How deep the sympathies of the best of the German people were at the time for the American colonists in their struggle for freedom can be gleaned from Schiller's news- paper articles, and his "Kabale und Liebe" scourges the utter rottenness of the system whereby German princelings sold their soldiers as mercenaries to England. Franklin, when he met Steuben in France, immediately recognized that he had before him an officer who not only followed the struggle of the American Colonies with keen interest, but who also prayed for their success. The best proof of Steuben's sentiments is contained in the letter which he addressed, from Portsmouth, to the Congress of the United States, in which he states that the only motive bringing him to this hemisphere is his desire to serve a people making such a noble fight for their rights and freedom. He does not crave titles or money. His only ambition in entering our ranks as a volunteer is to acquire the confidence of the commanding general of our armies and to accompany him through all his campaigns, as he did the King of Prussia during the Seven Years' War. He would like to attain with his life's blood the honor that at some future day his name may be enrolled among the defenders of our liberty. Address of Dr. Charles J. Hexamer 31 Though it is to be presumed that Steuben's biography is well known, I feel it my duty to limn by a few sketches the career of this extraordinary man. Among Eviropean officers of our War of Independence Frederick WiIvL,iam Henry Ferdinand von Steuben is tmdoubtedly the foremost in military knowledge. He ren- dered services to oiu- Nation which for actual value leave those of others far behind, although some may be better known to our people through the glamour of romance and deeds of a more spectacular display. He was bom on November 15, 1730, at Magdeburg, the son of the Prussian Capt. von Steuben, a descendant of an old and noble family, which for generations had produced famous soldiers. He entered the Prussian Army at the early age of 14, was wovmded at the Battle of Prag, serving in the Voltmteer Battalion of von Ma;yr, and fought throughout the Seven Years' War. At Kunersdorf he was again wounded and taken prisoner. He became adjutant to Gen. von Hiil- sen. Fighting at one time against the French, at another against the Russians and Austrians, he so distinguished himself that in 1 762 he became captain of the sta£f and per- sonal adjutant of the King. Later he commanded a cavalry regiment. He resigned his commission in 1763. After several years of service as court marshal to the Prince of HohenzoUem-Hechingen, while a general in the army of the Markgrave of Baden, he again met, on a visit to Paris, in December, 1777, his friend St. Germain, French minister of war. The latter advised him to go to America. Benjamin Frankhn, at that time our ambassador to France, did likewise, and rejoiced when he found that it did not re- quire much persuasion. Steuben was considered an au- thority on miUtary matters. As a member of the staff of 32 Statue of Baron von Steuben Frederick the Great he had actively and carefully studied the commissary departments. He had seen how to provi- sion and keep armies in an efficient state of health, and knew how to handle large military bodies. In short, he was "a past master of all the sciences of war, had ac- quired his knowledge at the most famous high school of those times, and, what was more, he had proved himself worthy and distinguished." He no doubt felt that among the American patriots he would find excellent raw material, "Free men fighting for liberty, willing and capable of enduring every hardship that would lead them to victory." The masses of recruits needed vigorous measures to make them valuable. And in Steuben lived the enthusiasm of the creator, the master, whose heart and soul were in his work. We can in truth call him the " Father of the American Army." Like a father he rejoiced in the progress of his men. He started his work with a num- ber of picked men, and in a fortnight his company knew how to bear arms and had a military air, knew how to march, and to form in columns, to deploy and execute maneuvers with excellent precision. Well could the Secretary of War at the time write that all congratulated themselves on the arrival of such a man, ex- perienced in miUtary matters. His services were the more valuable because the want of discipline and internal order in our Army was generally felt and greatly regretted. The general state of affairs on the arrival of Steuben can best be gleaned from Steuben's notes, which are preserved in the archives of the Historical Society of New York. The Army was divided into divisions, brigades, and regiments, commanded by major generals, brigadier gen- erals, and colonels. Congress had stipulated the number Address of Dr. Charles J. Hexamer 33 of soldiers for a regiment and a company, but the constant flood and tide of men having enlisted for six or nine months made the condition of a regiment or a company problem- atical. The words "company," "regiment," "brigade," or "division" meant nothing, as they certainly offered no standard for figuring the strength of a corps or of the Army. The number of men in them was so changeable that it was impossible to arrange a maneuver. Often a regiment was stronger than a brigade. Steuben saw a regiment of 30 men and a company which consisted of a corporal. Rec- ords were badly kept, reliable reports were impossible, and conclusive evidence could not be gained of where the men were and whether the money due them had been actually paid. Officers employed two and some even four soldiers as body servants. Military discipline did not exist. Regiments were made up at random. Some had 3, others 5,8, and 9 subdivisions. The Canadian regiment even had 21. Every colonel used the system he personally preferred. One used the English, another the French, and a third the Prussian regulations. Only on the march unanimity of system reigned. "They all used the single-file march of the Indians." Furloughs and discharges were granted without the knowledge of higher officers. When the troops were in camp, the officers did not stay with them, but lived apart, sometimes several miles away, and in winter usually went to their homes. Often but four officers remained with a regiment. The officers thought that their duties consisted in attending guard mount and to head their troops in battle. 84647°— 14 3 34 Statue of Baron von Steuben Soldiers did not know how to use their weapons, had no confidence in them, and used their bayonets as spits to broil their food when they had any. Uniforms could easily be described, because the troops were almost naked. The few officers who had military coats at all had them of any kind, color, and cut. Steuben states that at a " dress parade " he saw officers in sleeping-gowns, which had been made from old woolen blankets and bedspreads. Such a thing as the proper administration of a regiment none knew. The consequence was that chaotic disorder reigned everywhere, and the results obtained were ludi- crously inadequate in proportion to the sums expended. Just as little as the officers knew of the numbers of men at their command as little did they know about the weapons, ammimition, and equipment of their troops. No one kept records or accounts except the Army contractors who supplied the different articles. A terrible scarcity of money reigned all over the coimtry. The British had put large quantities of coimterfeit paper money in circulation, which brought with it an enormous devaluation; $400 to $600 were asked for a pair of shoes, and it took a " month's pay of a common soldier to buy a square meal." We must recall these facts in order to estimate at its full value Steuben's great sacrifice in remaining at his post. One not of the moral caliber of Steuben would have pre- cipitately fled from the service, for neither pecuniary nor social advantages were to be gained by serving the Colonies. The horrors of the camp of Valley Forge, where he was first sent, are known to every school child. SteubEN showed himself worthy of the trust imposed in him. Wash- ington had appointed him Inspector General, and soon Address of Dr. Charles J. Hexamer 35 Steuben showed the stuff he was made of, bringing order out of the chaos, introducing an excellent system of ac- cotmts and strict military discipline. He could not speak English well, but in spite of this handicap he succeeded in the difl&cult task, for a foreigner, of making himself be- loved and popular with all classes. He introduced system- atic regulations, held daily reviews, personally inspected everything, and made himself familiar with every detail. Droll incidents, of coiurse, took place; the men made mis- takes in maneuvering, the Baron made bad breaks in Eng- lish, his volleys of French and German were in vain, and though he swore in three languages, that did not help matters; but suddenly Steuben's good common sense and generous heart would assert themselves and he woidd call his adjutant to help him scold these dunces (Dummkopfe) , in reality to explain in plain English what he wanted the men to do. It was his big and generous heart which soon made him a universal favorite, for he not only enforced strict discipline, but he also scrupulously looked after the welfare of every soldier. He investigated everj^thing, the reports of physicians, the condition of the sick, the treatment the men received from their officers, the quarters and provisions given to his men, and, finally, he was always with them. Up at break of day, always active, never tiring, he accompanied his men on their marches and participated in their hard- ships and in camp he arranged their amusements. His tact and sound judgment were apparent everjrwhere, the mili- tary tactics of the school of Frederick the Great were adapted to the conditions of the American troops and their surroimdings. He was not a blind follower of military customs and superannuated formulas, as one might have easily been led to expect. His instructions were fitted ta 36 Statue of Baron von Steuben local conditions and, therefore, were appreciated; the officers strove zealously to emulate his example. Soon raw recruits were transformed into active and able parts of Washington's war machine. Thus Steuben in spirit as well as in fact became "the drillmaster of the Continental Army," an unselfish and faithful helper, esteemed by Washington, who well knew that Steuben was worthy the order of merit and faithful- ness his former master had bestowed upon him. Steuben was not a stickler for forms, not a mere "drill sergeant," but a broad-minded man, head and shoulders above most of those of his time who had taken up the " art of war " as a profession. He possessed the genius of a great military organizer, creating armies out of nothing, "stamping them out of the ground." Thus in Virginia, in the winter of 1780 and 1 78 1, after the tmfortunate Battle of Camden, S. C, Steuben was sent with Gen. Greene "to create an army." In spite of great difficulties, such as demoralization, igno- rance of military discipline, and the pervading tendency to "plunder," he succeeded so well that Arnold's maraud- ing invasion was halted and Lafayette could score successes. With a strong hand, by hard personal application, he broke the prejudice of officers who thought it beneath them to personally teach common soldiers. This bom aristocrat showed his fellow officers how democratic he was at heart, working to achieve results, and knowing no social barriers to accomplish them. His example was contagious, and jealous opponents were silenced by the excellent results of Steuben's methods. Gen. Scammel wrote to Sullivan that " Baron Steuben sets all a truly noble example. He is a past master in Address of Dr. Charles J. Hexamer 37 everything, from the big maneuver down to the smallest detail of the service. OflBcers and soldiers alike admire in him a distinguished man who held a prominent place under the great Prussian monarch, and who now, notwithstand- ing this fact, condescends, with a grace wholly his own, to drill a small body of 10 or 12 men as a drillmaster." Under his leadership extraordinary progress had been made toward order and discipline within the whole Army. The great change which became every-where apparent caused Washington to report to Congress that he would not be doing his duty if he should longer keep silent in regard to the high merits of Baron von StbxjbEN. His ability and knowledge, the never-tiring zeal with which he labored since he entered his ofl&ce, constituted an important gain for the Army. The results of Steuben's "drilling" were forcibly shown at the Battle of Monmouth, when Lee's lines, through incompetence or treachery, were breaking in confusion and defeat seemed certain, and Stextben, by Washington's command, brought the impending flight to a standstill and led the reimited lines against the fire of the enemy — a splendid example of discipline and mutual confidence between leader and troops. Alexander Hamilton, an eye- witness, declared that he then for the first time became aware of the overwhelming importance of military training and discipline. Discipline and drill had saved the day for the cause of liberty and had proved to the American Army that it was able to cope on an equal footing with the drilled armies of the enemy. That Steuben was a master of military science, using his own ideas, is clearly shown by the rules and regulations he issued imder extraordinary difficulties during the winter 38 Statue of Baron von Steuben campaign of 1778 and 1779. He was the inventor of the formation of light infantry, a lesson to be learned even by his former master, Frederick the Great, who studied the American War closely and adopted the system in his own army, then the model of the world, blindly followed by all the armies of Europe. Steuben's regulations were used for generations after his death, until new inventions and conditions made changes necessary. In Washington's council of war Steuben's word was of great influence and often heeded. In the archives of the Historical Society of New York his carefully drawn plans of campaign are still to be foimd. At the siege of Yorktown he was the only American general who had previously participated at sieges, at Prag and Schweidnitz, and so it happened that he was in com- mand, his troops occupying the most advanced trenches, when Comwallis raised the white flag of siurender. Wash- ington in the Army order of the next day specially mentions that to brave Steuben belonged a great part of the credit of victory. After peace had been declared and the Army was dis- banded, Washington commended, in his own handwriting, the extraordinary services which Gen. Steuben had rendered the American cause. Washington was the moving spirit, the soul of the great fight for freedom, but to Steuben must be awarded the credit of having been the power which supplied that master spirit with the means. Clear-sighted historians do not hesitate to designate Steuben as the most valuable man Europe gave America in our fight for freedom. Address of Dr. Charles J. Hexamer 39 As has been said: His system of reviews, reports, and inspections gave efficiency to the soldiers, confidence to the commander, and saved the Treasury not less than $600,000. Congress considered Steuben's services too valuable to discharge him after peace was declared, and it was SteubEN who worked out the plans for the establishment of our small standing Army and the foundation of our Military Academy. In spite of strong opposition his recommenda- tions received the support of Washington, and Congress adopted them. The Mihtary Academy he suggested is to-day none other than the Nation's famous Military Academy at West Point. Stetjben's plans included pro- fessorships of history, geography, international law, ora- tory, the fine arts, etc. He held that an officer should have a Uberal education and the best moral and physical training obtainable. When in 1784 the place of Secretary of War became vacant, Steuben applied for it, believing that he could serve his country well. Political cliques and intrigues shelved his aspirations; the threadbare excuse, for the want of a better one, that he was a ' ' foreigner ' ' to whom such an important post should not be intrusted, was put forward; such was the gratitude of our Republic after a great war, in which Steuben had so forcibly proved his fidelity and force of character. He keenly took this disappointment to heart, and in March, 1784, tendered his resignation. Congress accepted it on April 15, with the resolution that the thanks of the United States be expressed to him for the great zeal and the efficiency he had displayed in every position in- trusted to him, and presented him with a gold-handled sword as a sign of the high appreciation of his character 40 Statue of Baron von Steuben and merits. The States of New York, New Jersey, Penn- sylvania, and Virginia made him grants of land. In trying to procure reimbursement for the large sums he had advanced during the war he, however, experienced endless trouble and annoyances. Other men had come to the front and supported the claims of generals they favored. Finally, at a session when some opponents even argued in favor of repudiating the contracts made in good faith, Representative Page arose and told how Steuben had offered us his sword under generous terms and had ren- dered us such essential services that one should blush for Congress if the views of certain Members were adopted, that it was unworthy of Congress to split hairs about the meaning of the terms of contracts, and that he did not weigh them according to the amount of money involved, for he considered the services of the distinguished veteran more valuable than the highest sum which could possibly be awarded him. Returning to private life, Stexiben became a public- spirited citizen of the highest type. He probably gave the first impulse to the founding of the Order of the Cincinnati, and was one of the original members of this patriotic society. He was elected a regent of the University of New York, and at all times kept in touch with all ques- tions, civil or military. The German Society of New York reveres in him one of its foimders, and he was its president until his death. This society had been foimded in 1784, to aid German immigrants on similar lines to the German Society of Pennsylvania, founded 20 years before. Steuben could enjoy but a short time the annual pen- sion of $2,500 finally granted him in 1790 and the land grant of the State of New York. He had retired to his Address of Dr. Charles J. Hexamer 41 farm in the summer of 1794; as usual, he went to spend the hot season under the oak trees that shaded his simple hut, occupying his time with agricultural pursuits and scientific studies, when he was suddenly stricken. The brave warrior and noble citizen was never fully to recover. He died shortly after his sixty-fourth birthday, on No- vember 28, 1794. On Oneida's heights, deep within an old forest reserva- tion, we find a massive monument of gray stones to which the mosses and lichens fondly cling. Here rest the mortal remains of Steuben, the father of the American Army. We honor ourselves in honoring the memory of our great dead. The great oaks about his grave will fall in the course of time, time will also crumble this statue into dust, but as long as the American Nation exists the memory of Steuben will endure. COUNT JOHANN HEINRICH VON BERNSTORFF, The German Ambassadorto the United States. ADDRESS OF COUNT JOHANN HEINRICH VON BERNSTORFF Mr. President, Ladies, and Genti^emen: I highly appreciate the honor and privilege of appearing before and addressing this imposing gathering in the presence of the President of the United States. Many descend- ants of the old German stock who have fomid a new home in this hospitable country, and now form a natural bond of an ever-increasing friendship between Germany and the United States, have come to Washington to-day to do honor to the memory of one of the most distinguishied of their number at the foot of his statue, which is also the work of an American citizen of German descent. I am therefore very pleased to be able to regard this momunent not only as one erected to the memory of a distinguished German officer, who ably served this country, but also as a monument to the imbroken friendship which has existed between Germany and the United States since the birth of the people of the United States as a nation. In those days the great King from whom Steuben learnt the art of war issued his order refusing transit through Prussian territory to the Hessian and other German troops hired to fight against the Colonists. Frederick the Great was also one of the first to recognize the independence of the Colonies by concluding a treaty of commerce with the United States. This monument will all the more be a token of the old friendship existing between the two great nations, as the United States Congress, besides mu- nificently providing for the erection of this statue, has 43 44 Statue of Baron von Steuben decided to present a copy of it to the Emperor. Here and in Germany whoever regards one of the two monu- ments will be reminded of the ancient ties of friendship uniting him with his cousins beyond the ocean. Steuben was not an adventurer purely seeking per- sonal fame and money. He had been a distinguished officer in the great Frederick's army, in which he was con- nected with the quartermaster's department, and an aid- de-camp to the King. He came to America at the request of Benjamin Franklin and with a letter of introduction from him. Steuben himself wrote to Congress that the honor of serving a nation engaged in the noble enterprise of defending its rights and liberties was the reason that brought him to this continent. SteubEN joined the American troops during the gloomy winter at Valley Forge and was soon afterwards appointed Inspector General of the Army. The condition of the troops at that time is too well known to need description. Their inability to sus- tain a contest against the organized EngHsh soldiers had been taught in a woeful lesson by the campaign of 1776 in New York and New Jersey. It is recognized by all Amer- ican historians that none of the foreign officers rendered more important services than SteubEn did by organizing and disciplining the Army, introducing a system of military tactics, and creating the Engineer and Artillery Corps. Educated in the best school of war of his time, approved and trusted by the great Frederick, his services to his adopted country were invaluable. SteubEn succeeded in bringing order out of the general confusion, reducing the raw re- cruits to a homogeneous mass with the old troops, and accustoming the whole to the utmost precision of move- ment and management of arms and to yield punctilious Address of Count Johann Heinrich von Bernstorff 45 obedience to orders. By imparting discipline he gave confidence to the ofl&cers and men and enabled the troops from different parts of the country to act together with unanimity and effect. By introducing military habits of strict obedience he suppressed tumult and disorder, and by his rigid system of inspection great siuns were saved at a time when the very existence of the Nation depended on economy in the Army. Warm-hearted, affectionate, gen- erous to the extreme, the soldiers loved him, and many officers regarded him with romantic affection. He was prompt to acknowledge a mistake and eager to make reparation wherever it was due. I can not close my few remarks in a better way than by quoting the words of your national hero, George Washing- ton. On the day he resigned his commission as commander in chief he wrote to Steuben that he wished to make use of the last moment of his pubUc life to express to SteubEN in the strongest terms his sense of the obUgations the public was xmder to him for his faithful and meritorious services. MISS HELEN TAFT. UNVEILING OF THE STATUE Following the address of the German ambassador, Coimt von Bemstorff, the statue of Baron von Steu- ben was miveiled by Miss Helen Taft, daughter of the President. As the two big American flags, which had concealed the statue up to this time, were drawn apart reveahng the handsome tribute from this Nation to Wash- ington's famous drillmaster, the Northeastern Singers' Association, nearly 1,000 voices strong, led the singing of the "Star Spangled Banner" in a most inspiring man- ner, accompanied by the United States Marine Band. Then followed the salute of honor by Battery E, Third Field Artillery, but even the roaring cannons failed to equal the reverberating cheers of the delighted multi- tude that had gathered to do honor to the great general who had aided so generously in the successes of the Con- tinental Army. The sculptor, Mr. Albert Jaegers, was introduced then by the presiding officer, the Secretary of War, who paid him high tribute for the magnificent statue he had cre- ated to perpetuate the memory of Steuben. Mr. Jaegers spoke briefly of SteubEn. The vast audience attested its appreciation of the sculptor's work by long-continued applause. The unveiling ceremony was followed by the address of the President of the United States, William Howard Taft. 47 HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES WILLIAM HOWARD TAFT. ADDRESS OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES Mr. Chairman, Mr. Ambassador, Ladies and Genti^e- men; We dedicate to-day the last of the monuments which fill the four comers of this beautiful square and which testify to the gratitude of the American people to those from France, from Poland, and from Prussia who aided them in their struggle for national independence and existence. Lafayette, Rochambeau, Kosciuszko, and Von Stexjben contributed much to the success of Ameri- can arms in the Revolution. The assistance of the first three was, perhaps, more conspicuous and spectacular than that of Von Steuben, but it was not so valuable. Von Steuben was a trained soldier from boyhood. He learned his profession at the best of schools — that is, in actual warfare, tmder the direct instruction of the greatest master of the art of war of the eighteenth century. The character and severity of the drill and discipline and the tactics of the German Army were as exceptional in the days of Frederick William and of Frederick the Great as they are to-day. The word "thorough" described them then; it describes them now. Baron von Steuben came to this coimtry, actuated by the highest motives of patriotism, to help us achieve lib- erty, and he brought with him that which was without money and without price and which he infused into the rank and file of the Revolutionary Army — discipline and organization. He began his desperate task with the Army at Valley Forge in the winter of 1777-78, and as 84647°— 14 4 49 50 Statue of Baron von Steuben early as May of 1778 his influence for good was manifest in the Battle of Monmouth and in the other campaigns of that year. Alexander Hamilton, an accomplished sol- dier, testified to the marvelous effect of Von Steuben's discipline upon the action of the American soldiers under fire. The effect of Steuben's instruction in the American Army teaches us a lesson" that it is well for us all to keep in mind, and that is that no people, however warlike in spirit and ambition, in natural courage and self-confi- dence, can be made at once, by uniforms and guns, a mil- itary force. Until they learn drill and discipline, they are a mob, and the theory that they can be made an army overnight has cost this Nation billions of dollars and thou- sands of lives. The history of Von Steuben's services shows him a kindly, considerate, brave, and accomplished soldier. As Inspector General, his achievements were not the successes of an independent command, but they were the prepara- tion by persistent but tedious drilling and discipline of men to serve effectively under other commanders and to win for them victory. It seemed a thankless task, for it had none of the spectacular in it, none of the glory of military triumph. It was the basic hard work without which such triumphs could not be won, but the results inured to the glory of others. Steuben asked for no reward, except that if his services were satisfactory, at the end of the war he should be rec- ompensed for the sacrifices he had made in leaving his home and giving up lucrative rank and office. Wash- ington, that calm, sane, just judge of men, recognized fully the debt that he and the Army and the people owed Address of the President of the United States 51 to Von Steuben, and it is gratifying to know that he gave his evidence as he laid down his command of the Army in a letter full of expressions of gratitude to his comrade in arms, whose important aid- at a critical junc- ture he fully appreciated. When Baron Steuben came to this country he found Germans who had preceded him, and who, like him, had elected to make this their permanent home. Since his day millions of his countrymen have come to be Americans, and it adds great interest to our celebration and empha- sizes the propriety of the action of Congress in erecting this statue to know that the German race since the Revo- lution has made so large a part of our population and played so prominent a part in the great growth and de- velopment of our cotmtry. It is particularly appropriate that there is present the German ambassador, the per- sonal representative of the illustrious successor of Fred- erick the Great. The Germans who have become Ameri- can citizens and their descendants may well take pride in this occasion and in this work of art, modeled by the hand of an American of German descent, which com- memorates the valued contribution made by a German soldier to the cause of American freedom at the time of its birth. BENEDICTION By Rev. William T. Russell, D. D., rector of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Washington, D. C. May the blessing of Almighty God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, whose power extends from end to end mightily, and who disposes all things sweetly, descend upon us and preserve to us intact the blessings of peace, won for us by the sacrifices of our heroic ancestors. Amen. 52 NEWSPAPER COMMENT ON THE UNVEILING, PARADE, AND ATTEND- ANT CEREMONIES MAJ. GEN. WILLIAM H. CARTER, U. S. A., Grand marshal of the military and civic parade at the unveiling of the Steuben Monument in Washington, D. C, December?, 1910. (Eitrict) from The ETcning Star, Wiihington, O. C, December 7, 1910] NATION'S TRIBUTE TO VON STEUBEN BRONZE STATUE OF WASHINGTON'S GREAT DRILLMASTER UNVEILED IN LAFAYETTE PARK German societies take part in big parade — Chorus of 1,000 voices is heard in patriotic songs — Miss Helen Taft draws cord — Addresses by the President, the German Ambassador, and Representative Bartholdt, of Missouri — Delegations from New York In weather perhaps as bleak as that which enfolded the cheerless camp of the great commander in chief at Valley Forge, when barefoot Colonials tracked their course in blood over the pitiless snow, the United States of America, 133 years later, this afternoon, at the Capital of the Nation, unveiled the statue of Frederick Wil- liam Augustus Henry Ferdinand, Baron von Steuben, the adjutant general of the armies of Frederick the Great, the friend of Washington, and the great inspector of the Colonial Army that wrested its independence from the British Crown. Surrounding the tribute of bronze were thousands of Von Steuben's countrymen, proud of heart and exultant at the honor conferred upon their great representative, who, in his time, conferred honor upon their adopted country and gave to it all the force of his military wis- dom and skill in its fight for liberty. Not the barefoot and disorganized stragglers of the patriotic Army of long ago, but officers and troops of an Army and Navy second to none in Christendom, were gathered with them, while on all sides Americans to the manner born joined with all in the tribute to the memory of the great man who yet lives in the proudest annals of their native land. After a ringing chorus by nearly a thousand voices of the Northeastern Singers' Association and the invocation by Rev. Dr. Charles F. Steck, Jacob M. Dickinson, Sec- SS 56 Statue of Baron von Steuben retary of War, who presided at the ceremonies, introduced Representative Richard Bartholdt, of Missouri, who deliv- ered the opening address. Representative Bartholdt's address was followed with one by Dr. Charles J. Hexamer, president of the National German- American Alliance; a song by the Northeastern Singers' Association, and an address by the German ambassador, Count J. H. von Bernstorfif. UNVEILED BY UISS TAFT The statue was unveiled by Miss Helen Taft, daughter of the President, while the German singing societies, accompanied by the Marine Band, sang "The Star Span- gled Banner," and a salute was fired by Battery E, of the Third Field Artillery. The statue stands at the northwest corner of I^afayette Square, opposite the White House. On the other cor- ners of the square are the statues of Lafayette, Rocham- beau, and Kosciuszko. The statue is of bronze, surmount- ing a granite pedestal, and is so highly regarded as a work of art that Congress has provided for the presentation of a bronze replica to the German Emperor in partial recog- nition of his gift to the United States of a statue of Fred- erick the Great. The Steuben Statue is the work of Albert Jaegers, of New York. After the introduction of the sculptor, who received an ovation. President Taft, who was presented by Secretary Dickinson, spoke in praise of Von Steuben. Following the President's address, the benediction was pronounced by Rev. Dr. William T. Russell, pastor of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, and the military and civic parade then started. It was reviewed by the President and special guests. Nation's Tribute to von Steuben 57 FORMATION OF PARADE The formation of the parade was as follows : Maj. Gen. William H. Carter, of the General Staff, United States Army, grand marshal, assisted by Maj. Henry T. Allen, Eighth United States Cav- alry, and Capt. Joseph P. Tracy, Coast Artillery Corps, adjutant general, and staff. First division: Col. Joseph Garrard, Fifteenth Cavalry, United States Army, commanding; band United States Engineers; first battalion, United States Engineers, Maj. William D. Connor, Corps of Engineers, commanding; band United States Coast Artillery Corps; provisional regiment. United States Coast Artillery Corps, Col. Adam Slaker, Coast Artillery Corps, commanding; Company C, Hospital Corps, United States Army, Capt. William A. Wickline, Medical Corps, commanding; band United States Navy; battalion United States Marines; battalion seamen. United States Navy, Commander George W. Logan, United States Navy, commanding naval division; band Second Regiment, National Guard, District of Columbia; provisional battalion. Second Regiment, District of Columbia; provisional battalion. Second Regi- ment, National Guard, District of Columbia, Lieut. Col. Anton Stephan, Second Regiment, National Guard, District of Columbia, commanding; headquarters. Second Battalion, Batteries D and F, Third United States Field Artillery, Maj. L. G. Berry, Third Field Artillery, commanding; band, headquarters, and three troops First Squadron, Fifteenth United States Cavalry, Maj. F. S. Foltz, Fifteenth Cavalry, commanding. Second division: Grand marshal, Capt. Charles T. Schwegler, United States Volunteers— Staff : Chief of stafi, Lieut. J. H. Mittendorff, late United States Navy; adjutant general, Mr. Julius Albrecht, Washington, D. C; assistant adjutant general, Lieut. Sherman Miles, Third Field Artillery; Fred W. Lichti, Kolte Post, No. 32, Grand Army of the Republic, New York; Col. August P. Kunzig, Second Pennsylvania Infantry, National Guard ; mounted escort for the division, composed of the oflScers and delegates of societies and of citizens of Washington, D. C. First subdivision: Marshal, Capt. Wilhelm Barg, Philadelphia, Pa., and staff; band; detachment with flags and banners of the subdivision; veterans of the Steuben regiment, Seventh New York Volunteers; the National Asso- ciation of German Veterans and Warrior Societies of North America. Second subdivision : Marshal, Richard Pluym, Washington, D. C, and staff; band; detachment with banners and flags of the subdivision; the Northeastern Singers' Association. Third subdivision: Marshal, Ernst F. Juergensen and staff; band; detach- ment with flags and banners of the subdivision; associated Turner societies of the States of New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and District of Columbia. Fourth subdivision: Marshal, A. von N. Rosenegk, Richmond, and staff; band; detachment with banners and flags of the subdivision; the Virginia and West Virginia State associations of German-American societies. 58 Statue of Baron von Steuben Fifth subdivision: Marshal, Mr. Louis Schmidt, Philadelphia, and staff; band; detachment with banners and flags of the subdivision; united Ger- man-American societies of the State of Pennsylvania. Sixth subdivision: Marshal, Fred Bassler, Baltimore, Md., and staff; band; the independent German-American societies of Maryland. Seventh subdivision: Marshal, Frank Cordts and staff; band by the Platt- deutsche Volksfest Verein of Brooklyn; the banners of German-American societies from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Delaware, and other States; banners and flags. Eighth subdivision: Marshal, Robert Kammerer, New York, and staff; band; flags and banners of the society; the German Liederkranz, of New York. Ninth subdivision: Marshal, Charles Gemer, Washington, and staff; mounted escort in command of Frank Weigand; band; Butchers' Benevolent Association, No. i, of Washington, mounted and in uniform, commanded by Mr. Chris Rammling; flags and baimers of the subdivision; the German- American allied societies of the District of Columbia. ABOUT 10,000 MEN IN LINE It is estimated there were between 8,000 and 10,000 men in line. The first division formed at Pennsylvania Avenue, facing south, at Seventh Street NW. ; the sec- ond division formed in the vicinity of Sixth Street and Louisiana Avenue NW. Upon forming at 2 o'clock the second division pro- ceeded along Pennsylvania Avenue until the head of the column reached Fourteenth Street, when the column halted, backed against the north curbing of the Avenue and faced outwardly, that the various visiting organiza- tions might witness the military and naval display in the first division as it passed by. The first division started at 2.15 o'clock and marched west up Pennsylvania Avenue to Madison Place, thence northward to Pennsylvania Avenue, thence westward to Eighteenth Street, northward to H Street, eastward to Seventeenth Street, where the column halted. After the unveiling the column resumed its march eastward on H Street, thence northward on Vermont Avenue to K Street, where it disbanded, and the separate subdivisions and organizations proceeded to their head- quarters. Nation 's Tribute to von Steuben 59 COMMITTEE ON SEATING The committee that assisted in seating the guests at the unveiHng was composed as follows: Frederick D. Owen, chairman; John E. Fenwick, secretary; William L,. Browning, Sidney I. Besselievre, Myron Jermain Jones, Proctor L. Dougherty, lycwis P. Clephane, John H. Fin- ney, John G. Johnson, Albert J. Gore, F. W. Graham, Albert D. Spangler, John Doyle Carmody, Dr. Frank L. Biscoe, James Berrall, Frank C. Scofield, Frederick C. Bryan, Paul J. Pelz, U. S. G. Dunbar, H. S. McAUister, Henry O. Hall, Earl C. Marsh, Dr. Edwin A. Hill, J. C. Dalphin, H. C. Gauss, F. G. Eiker, J. Jerome Lightfoot, Caleb C. Magruder, jr.. Dr. Watson WilUam Ayers, Fred- erick Hyde, Dr. William D. Wirt, John L. Wirt, George A. Howe, F. F. Gillen, and Henry W. Samson. DELEGATIONS FROM NEW YORK Among those in attendance at the unveiling were the I/iederkranz Society and the Concordia Society, both of New York, the former comprising 160 members and the latter 50 members. Both organizations have their headquarters at the Riggs House. BANQUET IN MEMORY OF BARON VON STEUBEN WASHINGTON MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY OF THE CINCINNATI TO HONOR ONE OF FOUNDERS In honor of Baron Frederick Wii,liam von Steuben, whose statue in Lafayette Square was unveiled this after- noon, and who was one of the founders of the Society of the Cincinnati, the resident members of the society have selected to-night to give a banquet ^t the Army and Navy Club. At 7.30 o'clock a distinguished company, including many of the national officers of the society, will gather about the banquet board. 6o Statue of Baron von Steuben Although the society still keeps to its old organization in the thirteen original States, with State organizations in each, there are living in Washington about 40 members of the society, and it is they who are to give the dinner to-night. This is the second banquet which the resident members have given, and it is believed that the Wash- ington banquet will become an annual affair. Baron von Steuben was enthusiastic over the organi- zation of the Order of the Cincinnati and did all in his power to aid in forming the society. The insignia of the society was designed by Maj. 1 'Enfant, the French officer who made the plans for the city of Washington. Baron voN SteubEN and the members of the society were so much pleased with the design for the insignia that Steuben was directed to write a letter to Maj. 1 'Enfant expressing the thanks of the society. LETTER TO L'ENFANT This letter, signed by Steuben, is at present the prop- erty of Dr. James Dudley Morgan, of this city. The let- ter, though brief, is couched in the dignified language of the eighteenth century. It is dated July i, 1783, West Point, and reads as follows: Sir: Enclosed I have the honor to present you with an extract from the resolutions of the convention of the Society of the Cincinnati of June 19, 1783, by which I am requested to transmit their thanks to you, for your care and ingenuity in preparing the designs, which were laid before them by the president on that day. I beg you to believe that I esteem myself honored in expressing the desire of the convention, as it gives me an opportunity of publicly paying that acknowledgment to your merit which is deserved. With the greatest esteem, I am, sir, Your obedient, humble servant, Steuben, list of the guests The guests at the banquet to-night will be James Simons, vice president general; Asa Bird Gardiner, sec- retary general; John Collins Daves, assistant secretary general; Charles Isham, acting treasurer general; Lewis Nation's Tribute to von Steuben 6i Dunham Boggs, Robert Taylor Vamum, R. Bruce Kirk- patrick, Bartlett S. Johnston, Maj. H. Ashton Ramsey, W. Hall Harris, Richard Bradley, James W. Denny, Senator Morgan Gardner Bulkeley, Representative Wil- Uam Paine Sheffield, Representative Butler Ames, Henry Randall Webb, Brig. Gen. Daingerfield Parker, United States Army (retired); Brig. Gen. Green Clay Goodloe, United States Marine Corps (retired); Dr. William Hol- land Wilmer, Frederick McCuUough Moore, Gen. Charles Iv. Fitzhugh, John Sidney Webb, William Howe Somer- vell, Commodore William Stetson Hogg, United States Navy (retired) ; Capt. Hilary Pollard Jones, United States Navy; Dr. Daniel Kerfoot Shute, Maj. Henry T. Allen, United States Army; Maj. Jxdian Mayo Cabell, M. D., United States Army (retired); Maj. Walter D. Webb, M. D., United States Army (retired); J. B. Baylor, James Malcolm Henry, Joshua Nathaniel Steed, R. B. B. Chew, jr.; Commodore Isaac Stockton Keith Reeves, United States Navy (retired) ; Joseph Young Reeves, Dr. George Tully Vaughan, William Marbtuy Beall, Brig. Gen. Hazard Stevens, Walter G. Peter, and Ben- jamin B. Bradford. GUESTS AT LUNCHEON UNITED GERMAN ALLIANCE COMMITTEE ENTERTAINED BY COMMERCE CHAMBER The executive committee of the United German Alliance, whose members are in Washington for the unveiling of the Von SteubEN Statue to-day, were enter- tained at luncheon by the Washington Chamber of Com- merce at the New Ebbitt House at 11.30 o'clock this morning. The executive committee of the alliance is headed by Dr. C. J. Hexamer, of Philadelphia. The entertainment committee of the Chamber of Com- merce who attended the luncheon consisted of A. Lisner, 62 Statue of Baron von Steuben H. B. F. Macfarland, William F. Gude, D. J. Callahan, James F. Oyster, Commissioner Cuno H. Rudolph, Scott C. Bone, William E. Shannon, Granville M. Hunt, and Thomas Grant. TOASTS TO VON STEUBEN DRUNK AT BANQUET BOARDS [The Kvening Star, Washington, D. C, December 8, 1910] Following the fatiguing exercises of the day, which was devoted to the unveiling of the statue to VoN Steuben, the visiting German societies and organizations gave over the evening to feasting and oratory in commemoration of the event. Last evening there were four big banquets at which the great German general was extolled and the friendship of the United States and Germany more closely cemented. At the New Willard half a thousand men sat down to the banquet of the German-American societies and lis- tened to addresses by the German ambassador, Coimt von Bemstorff; Representative Richard Bartholdt, the toast master of the evening; Dr. Charles J. Hexamer, president of the National German- American Alliance; Commissioner Cuno H. Rudolph, and others. All the addresses were de- livered in the German language, except that of Commis- sioner Rudolph, who extended the welcome of Washington to the visitors and invited them to come again. At the Army and Navy Club the resident members of the Society of the Cincinnati, which was founded after the peace of 1783, at the quarters of Baron von Steuben, on the Hudson, by the American officers of the Revolution, banqueted and recalled the heroes of the War for Inde- pendence in speech and story. ^UNUTE MEN THEIR GUESTS The Washington Kriegerbund, or association of German veterans who saw service in the armies of the United Nation's Tribute to von Steuben 63 States as well as those of their native land, had as its guests of honor the ofl&cers of the Minute Men of this city, including Col. M. A. Winter, Lieut. Col. E. R. Campbell, Maj. E. F. Paull, Capt. Charles A. Goldsmith, and Capt. George W. Karris, who acted as the guard of honor when the American Kriegerbimd visited Germany last year as the guests of the German Emperor. An incident of the evening was the presentation of a diamond stud by Lieut. Col. Campbell to Col. Richard Mueller, commander in chief of the Kriegerbimd. Maj. von Herbert, military at- tSLchi. at the German embassy, and Capt. Retzmann, the naval attach^, were present, and the former made an ad- dress, closing with the sentiment, "By honoring the United States and being its best citizens, you honor your native land." Others who spoke were Col. Richard Mueller, of New York; Col. M. A. Winter, Col. Campbell, Capt. Siebert, of Baltimore; Capt. M. Milhauser, of Albany; Capt. W. Barg, of Philadelphia; Capt. Phil Baumann, of New York; Capt. L. C. Lechner, of this city; and H. Junkermann, of Omaha, Nebr. Delegations from kriegerbunds, or veterans' societies, were present, as follows: From New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Boston, Pittsburgh, and Wheeling, W. Va. TURNERS HOLD A KOMMERS Local turners of the Columbia Tumverein were hosts at a great German kommers at the National Rifles' Armory last evening to visiting tvuners and their families. An im- mense throng filled the great hall and enjoyed the special program prepared for the occasion. George W. Spier pre- sided at the exercises and Representative Bartholdt deliv- ered an address extolling the German system of physical cultvu-e and recommending the ttuners' schools to parents for their children. One of the most interesting personali- ties present was the mascot of the Twentieth Tinner Reg- iment of New York, Mrs. Ottelie Gerth, who received an 64 Statue of Baron von Steuben ovation when she made an address recalling incidents of the Civil War. Mrs. Gerth has been closely associated with the turner regiment ever since the stirring days of 1861, when she presented it with a flag before its departure for the front, and afterwards, through untiring efforts, provided its mem- bers with necessary clothing, etc. Mrs. Gerth lives in a historic house at Fort Lee, N. J., whose quaint beauty is practically unchanged since the days when it played an important part in the councils of Revolutionary times. Mrs. Gerth declared that every turn hall is an altar of morality and patriotism, health and strength, and all parents should send their children there for instruction. IS WARMLY CONGRATULATED At the conclusion of her address, after the applause had subsided, many of the audience came forward to shake hands with Mrs. Gerth. She is the mother of Frank Gerth, the New York theatrical manager, and will be the guest of lyieut. W. H. Santelmann Thursday, before returning to her home. Others who spoke were Louis Hoffmaim, of the Vor- waerts Tumverein, Baltimore; Theodore Gwermann, presi- dent of the Techniker Verein, Baltimore; Lieut. J. H. Mit- tendorf, late of the United States Navy; Richard Lieber, of the North American Tumerbund, and others. The following societies were represented: New York Tumverein, Utica Tumverein, Newark TtnnvereLa, Wil- mington Tumverein, Philadelphia Tumgemeinde, Vor- waerts and Germania Tumverein of Baltimore, Richmond Tumverein, Lawrence (Mass.) Tumverein, Technischer Verein of Philadelphia. The committee in charge of the kommers was C. Ham- mel, H. Egolf, E. F. Juergensen, and A. R. Meisner. Nation's Tribute to von Steuben 65 GERMAN PRESS COMMENT EXPRESS APPRECIATION OF ADDRESSES AT VON STEUBEN STATUE UNVEILING Berwn, December 8, 1910. — To-day's papers feature the addresses delivered by President Taft, Count von Bemstorflf, the German ambassador at Washington, and Representa- tive Bartholdt, of Missouri, on the occasion of the unveiling at Washington yesterday of the statue of Baron Freder- ick WiLWAM VON Steuben. The entire press comments with great satisfaction upon the kind things said by the speakers of Germans and Em- peror William. 84647°— 14 5 PRESENTATION OF THE REPLICA POTSDAM, GERMANY SEPTEMBER 2, 1911 HfS MAJESTY THE GERMAN EMPEROR, WILLIAM II. PRESENTATION OF THE REPLICA OF THE - STEUBEN STATUE TO HIS MAJESTY THE GERMAN EMPEROR Extension of the Remarks of Hon. James R. Mann, of Illinois, in the House of Representatives, Monday, August 5, igi2 Mr. Speaker: Under leave to print recently granted I beg to insert in the Record an authentic account of the presentation of a repUca of the SteubEN Monument to Emperor William and of the unveiling ceremonies at Berlin on September 2, 191 1. The accotmt is as follows: On December 21, 1909, Representative Richard Bar- tholdt, of Missouri, the author of the legislation which resulted in the erection of the Steuben Monmnent in the city of Washington, introduced the following bill in the House of Representatives: Be it enacted, etc., That the expenditure of the sum of $5,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, be, and the same is hereby, authorized to be made under the direction of the Secretary of State and the Joint Committee on the Library for the erection of a bronze replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben, authorized to be erected in Washington; said replica to be pre- sented to His Majesty the German Emperor and the German nation in return for the statue of Frederick the Great, presented by the Emperor to the people of the United States. This bill, by the approval of the President, became a law on Jime 23, 1910, and in pursuance of its provisions the Secretary of State and the Joint Committee on the Library entered into contract with Mr. Albert Jaegers, the sculptor of the original Steuben Monument, for the preparation of the replica intended as a present for the German Emperor and the German nation. Inquiries directed to Berhn by the State Department as to the acceptability of such a statue had been answered affirma- 69 70 Statue of Baron von Steuben tively even before the legislation was attempted. In the spring of 191 1 the artist had completed his work, and President Taft appointed the author of the legislation, Hon. Richard Bartholdt, and Mr. Charles B. Wolffram, of New York City, as "envoys extraordinary and plenipo- tentiary" to make the formal presentation to the German Emperor at Berhn. The departure of Mr. Bartholdt on his diplomatic mis- sion was made the occasion of a thoughtful little cere- mony on board of the steamer George Washington, of the North German Lloyd. On the afternoon before sailing — August 18, 191 1 — the New York Daughters of the Ameri- can Revolution tendered him a farewell reception in the large and beautifully decorated dining room of the steamer. Mrs. Joseph Simeon Wood, the State regent of that organization, presided, and, after the hymn "America" had been sung, rose to say that no more fit- ting present could be offered to Germany by the United States than a statue of the great soldier and patriot. Gen. Steuben. In expressing his gratitude for the courtesy of the patriotic ladies, Mr. Bartholdt extolled Steuben's virtues as a citizen and soldier and briefly recounted the valuable services he had rendered his adopted country. He also referred to his mission as one of amity and peace, and rejoiced in the fact that, in accordance with the sin- cere desire of President Taft and Kaiser William, it would tend to strengthen the ties of friendship which had always imited the two greatest civilizatory powers of modem times, America and Germany. Speeches were also made by Mrs. William Cumming Story, the former State regent; Mrs. Frances Roberts, of Utica, who called attention to the neglected condition of Steuben's grave and promised to enlist the support of the women of the Mohawk Valley for the work of properly restoring it; Mr. Edward O. Town; Dr. Ernst Richard; and Capt. Charles Polack, of the George Washington, who had complaisantly consented to be the host of the occasion. Presentation of the Replica Ji This patriotic American celebration was followed the next morning by a serenade tendered by the Allied German Singers of New York, who sang American airs and songs of the fatherland up to the minute the big steamer left the Hoboken pier. By direction of the Emperor, the German Government had selected Potsdam, the historic subm-b of Berlin, as the site for the Steuben Monument and the 2d of Sep- tember as the day for the ceremony of unveiling, both selections being highly significant of the importance which the Kaiser attached to the American gift. Admittedly, no more prominent place could have been chosen than the ancient home of Prussia's kings, and the 2d of September is even to-day a holiday in Germany, as it is the anni- versary of Napoleon's surrender at Sedan. What Ver- sailles is to Paris, Potsdam is to Berlin. Both great capi- tals are closely allied with those suburbs by historic memories, and neither the history of France nor that of the German Empire, especially of Prussia, would be com- plete without a proper appreciation of those imperial places of residence. Besides, both are equally renowned because of their castles, monuments, and beautiful parks. It was at Potsdam where, in times of peace, Prussia's ingenious King, Frederick the Great, delighted to rest, and where he built Sans Souci as his Tusculum, and here, in front of the old castle, a historical structure alive with memories of the great King, is the spot thoughtfully chosen for America's friendly gift. How eminently fit- ting this site is will be better understood when we re- member that Gen. Steuben, during the Seven Years' War, had been an ofiicer in the army of Frederick the Great, and that the same King, of whom one is reminded at every step at Potsdam, had been his protector and friend. The most distinguishing feature of the ceremonies connected with the presentation and the unveiling of the Steuben Monument at Potsdam was the personal interest 72 Statue of Baron von Steuben which the Kaiser evinced in them and which was apparent in every detail. Not only the Emperor himself, but almost the whole imperial family, graced the occasion with their presence, and nothing was left undone to empha- size the international importance of the event and to confer honorable distinction upon the two special envoys whom the United States had sent on so friendly a mission to the great German Empire. The Elite Body Company of the Guard Regiment marched up as a guard of honor, with Prince Joachim as flag officer, and the direct superiors, including the Crown Prince and General in Command von I/oewenfeld. The Empress, too, witnessed the ceremony, viewing it from the windows of the old castle. In the suite of the Emperor were Princes August Wilhelm and Oskar; Imperial Chancellor von Bethmann-Holweg ; Sec- retary of State von Kiderlin-Waechter ; Secretary of War Heeringen; Chief of the General Staff von Moltke; Lieut. Gen. von Steuben and other members of the Steuben family, all German relatives of the hero of the occasion; the gentlemen of the Imperial headquarters; the officers' corps of Potsdam and the cadets of Potsdam and Lich- terfelde; the administrative president for Potsdam, Count von der Schulenburg; and finally the mayor and the police president of Potsdam. Among the Americans present, outside of the two special envoys, were Mrs. Bartholdt and Mrs. Wolffram; the American ambassador, Dr. David Jayne Hill; the sculptor of the statue, Albert Jaegers, of New York; the members of the American Embassy at Berlin, including the military and naval attaches and four officers of the American Army, who at the time were the special guests of the Kaiser, having been sent to attend the German Army maneuvers; President Wolflf, of the American Chamber of Commerce at Berlin; Col. Otto Stifel, of St. Louis; Dr. William C. Teichmann, the American consul at Stettin; and several other American citizens, all of whom had been specially invited by the Secretary of State. A part of the garrison and several thousand residents of the city also witnessed the ceremony. Hon. Charles B. Wolffram, of New York City. Hon, Richard Bartholdt, of St. Louis, Mo. THE AMERICAN ENVOYS WHO PRESENTED THE STEUBEN REPLICA TO THE GERMAN EMPEROR ON BEHALF OF THE UNITED STATES. Presentation of the Replica 73 The distinguished assemblage, half civil and half mili- tary, which had gathered in front of the veiled monument, presented quite an animated spectacle, whose effect was heightened by the bright sunshine of a warm September day. At 12 o'clock His Majesty the Bmperor appeared, and after he had passed muster along the line of the guard of honor he took his stand in front of it and directly oppo- site the monument. The two special envoys of President Taft then stepped forward, and Hon. Richard Bartholdt, in addressing the Bmperor and speaking in German, deliv- ered the formal presentation speech in a distinct and far- reaching voice. The fact that he used the German lan- guage was intended and recognized as a special courtesy to the Fatherland in return for the same courtesy shown to the American Nation when the German ambassador at Washington, in presenting the statue of Frederick the Great as the Kaiser's gift to the President of the United States, delivered his address in English. Mr. Bartholdt spoke as follows: Your Majesty, by direction of the President of the United States, we have come across the ocean to fulfill the purport of a resolution, unanimously adopted by the American Congress, providing for the presentation to His Majesty the German Emperor and the German people of a statue of Gen. VON Steuben, a great German and erstwhile citizen and hero of two conti- nents, as a gift from the American people. If, in the performance of this honorable mission, I may be permitted to interpret the sentiments of the people of the United States, I would say, on behalf of President Taft's special embassy, that the proffered donation is to be a pledge of peace and amity and a guaranty of the sincerity of the earnest hope, cherished by all Americans, that the effect of this ceremony may be to draw more and more closely the bonds of traditional friendship and good will which, strength- ened as they are by the ties of blood, have always so happily united the great German Empire with the great Republic of the West, the United States of America. The name of Steuben will ever awaken patriotic memories beyond the ocean. Its bearer was the embodiment of German order and discipline and of that loyalty of which the poet says, "If it were not as old as the world, surely a German would have invented it." He was not only the order-creating genius of the Colonial Army, but also the indefatigable, though modest, organizer of victories. In just appreciation of his great achievements a grateful people, nobly disregarding national distinctions, honored his memory by the erection in front of the White House in Wash- ington of a monument which is to commemorate his valuable services, as 74 Statue of Baron von Steuben well as those rendered by the Germans generally to the cause of American independence. And to-day's celebration? It is verily a beautiful act of international courtesy, but may we not also interpret the ready acceptance of this statue as a just and generous willingness on the part of Steuben's old fatherland and its exalted sovereign to appreciate and honor those who by their conduct abroad have added luster to the German name? Millions of hearts on the other side of the Atlantic, which throb warmly on accoiait of this dedication, will rejoice exultantly at such interpretation. From the material to the political and ideal significance of to-day's act is but a step. The peace President extends to the peace Kaiser, under whose reign the phrase "The Empire is the peace" has been verified, the hand of friendship for hearty cooperation in the peaceful solution of the great problems of civilization. And are there two other nations which, resting upon the tradition of undisturbed friendship and looking forward to a future of still closer relations, could more justly feel called upon to make common cause in the great humanizing tasks of our time, in the pro- motion of art and science, and in all tendencies looking to the increased welfare of the people? We live in a time of international conciliation and have come to realize that peaceftd development is of more transcendent importance than all that is now dividing the nations; and Germany's 40 years of peace is an ample guaranty to America that it requires but an incentive in order to crystallize mutual sympathy into a political fact. May this beautiful ceremony hasten such a happy consummation. As special envoys of the President of the United States we have the distinguished honor of asking Your Majesty to accept this statue as a token of the sincere friendship of the American Government and people for Your Majesty and the people of Germany. The Emperor, who seemed greatly pleased with the ad- dress, saluted the speaker, and, taking from the hands of an adjutant a roll of paper, read the following response: With sincere gratitude I accept the monument which, by direction of the President of the United States of America and in pursuance of a gracious act of Congress, you are presenting to me and the German people as a gift from the American people. When a few months ago the Steuben Monument was xmveiled at Washington the celebration was followed with great interest everywhere in Germany, and it was noted with lively satis- faction how elevating and impressive it was and how active was the par- ticipation in it on the part of the Government and the people. Now we rejoice to have on German soil, too, a statue, dedicated by America, of that brave German who, with enthusiastic devotion and sublimely sim- ple performance of duty, consecrated his services to the cause of the American people. The words with which you gave eloquent expression to the significance of the monument and of this celebration find a ready response in the German Empire. You have justly referred to the blood relationship and the tminterrupted friendship which unite and always shall more closely Presentation of the Replica 75 tuiite the German and American Nations. I beg you to accept my grati- tude and that of the Gernian people for coming here and presenting to us this beautiful monument, and let me venture the expectation that you will kindly convey these our sentiments to the President and the people of the United States. The Kaiser looked exceedingly well and spoke with a strong voice. With his last words he gave the signal for the unveiling, and with the accompaniment of an inspir- ing military march the cover fell, the Kaiser standing in front of the monument and saluting with his hand raised to the helmet. For a few minutes he seemed to inspect the piece of art before him with the critical look of a con- noissetur. He then turned to greet Lieut. Gen. von Steuben, a direct descendant of the "hero of two worlds," and Ambassador Hill, who in turn introduced the two American envoys, Messrs. Bartholdt and Wolffram. The Kaiser shook hands with them in the most cordial man- ner and engaged them in a lengthy conversation, in the course of which he again expressed his appreciation of the American gift. "V^lien Mr. Bartholdt asked whether an introduction to His Majesty of the sculptor who had created the original monument as well as the replica would be agreeable, the Kaiser willingly assented, where- upon Mr. Albert Jaegers stepped forward and was warmly greeted as well as complimented by the Sovereign, who had previously conferred upon him the foiurth-class Order of the Red Eagle as an evidence of his appreciation of the monument as to its artistic merits. The march past the statue of the guard of honor, in parade step concluded the ceremony, which marked a most pleasant and mem- orable event in the diplomatic history of the two great countries concerned. I^et us hope that Americans visit- ing Germany will not neglect to view the delightful spot where oiu: great Republic, in language of bronze, pro- claims to the people of his own fatherland its lasting grati- tude for Steuben's great services. At I o'clock a midday dinner was served in the marble hall of the royal castle which His Majesty had graciously 76 Statne of Baron von Stevhen arranged in honor of the occasion and of the American envoys, Messrs. Bartholdt and Wolffram. To the right of the Emperor sat Mr. Richard Bartholdt, the Imperial Chancellor, and the secretary of the American Legation, Mr. Laughlin; to his left Mr. Charles B. Wolffram, the Secretary of State von Kiderlin-Waechter, and Maj. Gen. Wotherspoon, of the American Army. Opposite the Kaiser were seated the crown prince and the other royal princes. Ambassador Hill, and Gen. Garlington, of the American Army. Altogether the distinguished guests numbered between 70 and 80. A vivacious and uncon- strained conversation between the imperial host and his American guests was one of the delightful features of the feast, which lasted nearly an hour. In the course of it the Emperor rose and asked those present to raise their glasses and drink the health of the American people and President Taft. Indeed, he was in the best of humor and showed by his words and actions that the signifi- cance and success of the celebration afforded him genu- ine satisfaction. All his references to the United States in his conversation with the American representatives were made in the spirit of a warm personal interest and admiration. During the dinner he sent the following telegram to President Taft: The Steuben Monument has been unveiled. In my name and that of the German people I thank you most heartily for the beautiful gift which is so gratifying an evidence of the friendship between the German and American nations. President Taft responded as follows: I sincerely appreciate your cordial message which advised me of the un- veiling of the Steuben replica and conveyed your gratitude and that of the German people for the gift. It will give me great pleasure to commimicate Your Majesty's message to Congress, at the opening of its session in Decem- ber, as an evidence of the cordial relations which have always existed be- tween the United States and the German Empire. With the Kaiser dinner the official part of the ceremo- nies was concluded. It was followed by a limcheon given Presentation of the Replica 77 by Secretary of State von Kiderlin-Waechter, at which the two American envoys and Ambassador Hill were the guests of honor. Mr. Bartholdt sat to the right and Mr. Wolffram to the left of the host, and Dr. Hill was seated opposite him. It was at the same time a farewell to the latter, as he had resigned his post and was about to return to the United States. The secretary of state took occasion to express his deep regret at Dr. Hill's departure from Ber- hn, and the Emperor himself had previously expressed a like sentiment. It seems the distinguished statesman and diplomatist who represented us in the German capital had succeeded in a comparatively short time in making himself "persona gratissima" at the Berlin court. Mr. von Eaderlin- Waechter proved himself a charming host, and as at that particular time he was conducting the negotiations with France about Morocco the guests were treated to many an interesting observation touching that serious contro- versy. The German secretary of state is plain and mias- suming in speech and manners, but unquestionably one of the most interesting men in international public Ufe to-day. The account of the Stextben days in Berlin would not be complete without a mention of a deUghtful private diimer given by Mr. Charles B. "Wolffram in honor of his colleague, Mr. Bartholdt, at the Hotel Adlon. It was on the evening of the dedication, when all were still in an animated mood. What kitchen and cellar of that renowned hostelry could provide was at the disposal of the 22 guests, all Americans, and when the host, Mr. Wolffram, rose to propose the health of President Taft there was that enthusiastic re- sponse which is possible only when Americans meet on for- eign soil and are reminded of their beloved coimtry. Among the guests on this occasion were, besides those already mentioned, Mrs. Bartholdt, Mrs. Wolffram and daughters. Dr. and Mrs. Hill, Mr. Daughlin, secretary of the Ameri- can legation, and two undersecretaries. Consul and Mrs. W. C. Teichmann, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Jaegers, Col. Otto Stifel, of St. l/ouis, Mrs. C. Royce and her daughter. Miss o 78 Statue of Baron von Steuben Jennie Thompson (also from St. lyouis), Fred. Achenbach, of the Treasury Department, Miss Campbell, of New York, and others. Having performed this honorable mission, the two spe- cial envoys returned to the United States, and upon their arrival in New York were tendered a great ovation by sev- eral hundred German-Americans who had arranged a banquet in their honor. Whatever tends to strengthen the bonds of friendship between their adopted country and the Fatherland always meets with spontaneous and enthusiastic approval and support on the part of Ameri- can citizens of German birth and extraction, and the mis- sion of Messrs. Bartholdt and WolflFram was justly re- garded as a means to that end. Hence the dinner proved an exceptional success in every respect. President Taft was lauded by the speakers for having bestowed the honor of such an important mission upon two German- Americans. All the most influential newspapers of Germany com- mented most favorably on the Potsdam ceremony and its significance. Some of those comments may find space here: [Norddeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung; (semiofiicial)] The solemn ceremonial at Potsdam again directed general attention to the old historic relations between Germany and the United States of Amer- ica which date back to the days of the war of the Colonies for independence. We in Germany fully appreciate the special pride with which our kinsmen who found a second home on the other side of the ocean regard our distin- guished common countryman, and we feel a high gratification at the honors which the whole American Nation, conscious of his great services in the darkest hour of its history, now confers upon the leader and fellow citizen who has come from German stock. In the four generations which have passed since those struggles the United States have received a rich supply of valuable forces through German immigration. On all fields Germans have contributed to the development of the Union and its present interna- tional prestige, not the least on the field of intellectual labor as teachers, scientists, and authors. Among the most distinguished living representa- tives of German literature and interpreters of German culture in America are the two special envoys, Bartholdt and Wolftram, who are commissioned to represent the American Nation at to-morrow's celebration. Presentation of the Replica 79 [Frankfurter Zeitung] At Potsdam to-day the German Emperor was presented with a monu- ment of Gen. VON Steuben by two emissaries from the United States. That it occurred on September 2 is probably an accident, yet it may be regarded as a good omen that the anniversary of the greatest victory which German arms ever achieved should be commemorated with such a peace- ful celebration, a celebration of the manifold close relations and of the friendly feeling existing between the two great nations. And, by the way, the historic period to which the new monument in Potsdam carries back otu- thoughts is a time of common memories also for the two peoples which met on the battle field 41 years ago. France and Prussia are the two coun- tries which, more than any others, showed recognition and friendship to the American Colonies fighting for their liberty, and the two first military names which are prominent in the history of the Revolutionary War, next to that of the great George Washington, are those of a Frenchman and a German, Marquis Lafayette and Gen. von StEubEN. For a long time American history has failed to sufficiently appreciate the services and the im- portance of Steuben. This was not due to ill will either against the person or his nationality, but to the somewhat naive overrating of a few spectacular military actions, which, however, were much less apt to bring final vic- tory than the quiet work of organization which SteubEN performed for Washington's armies. During the last few years the more serious histo- rians of the New World, perhaps as a. result of German-American protests, have endeavored to atone for previous neglect in this direction. This change in favor of a better appreciation through increased study and understanding applies not only to the memory of the old general, but the relations of the two nations — ^the German and the American people — seem to undergo a similar evolution. On the other side of the ocean the opinion prevailed for a long time that Americans were very unpopular, if not detested, in Germany. With us there were at times similar opin- ions of the sentiments of Uncle Sam toward the German "Michel." In fact, however, real public opinion was at no time as hostile, either there or here, as the other side imagined, not even during the Spanish War and the years immediately following it of semiofficial strain between Wash- ington and Berlin. With us Germans, the faculty to hate other nations has never been strong and certainly never general. The tradition of over- estimation, admiration, and imitation of what is foreign has been too strong as an inheritance of long political disruption, and, apart from the small abnormal group of pan-German cranks, has not entirely disappeared even to-day. So far as Americans were really unpopular with us, the rea- sons for this feeling were not political, but were to be ascribed to pinely human motives. There were and are no material diflEerences of interest between Germany and the United States, and in Germany the mass of the people, as well as the nonpolitical influential circles, have always been conscious of this fact. But it would be foolish to deny that there were and, though rapidly disappearing, there still are strong human, or, let us say, cultural differences. These differences, namely, idealism and 8o Statue of Baron von Steuben settled culture on the one hand and materialism and upstart civilization on the other, have never existed to the extent that one has imagined on this side of the Atlantic. In the first place, they were not contrasts be- tween Americans and Germans, but between the youthful growing popu- lation of the largest modem colonial country and the historically grown nations of the Old World. Upstart and self-made man are really two sides, of the same thing, only the European has coined the word for the dark side and the American for the bright side. The old nations note the shortcomings of the new upstart who boasts of his feats, and by thus brag- ging makes himself doubly disliked with the grown people. So Ameri- cans have found little sympathy in most of the old civilized countries. Germany has made no exception in this respect, but public sentiment here has wonderfully changed during the last lo years. We appreciate more and more that those human national contrasts have been partly over- estimated and are partly disappearing. The better we learn to know the American the more we can overlook appearances and the peculiarities of his manners, the more we perceive the genuine idealism, the great moral values, the splendid innate health which that young Nation develops with so much energy and understanding. We Germans, who ourselves were newly bom as a united and strong people 40 years ago, realize more and more generally how much we have in common with the great American Nation with respect to economical development as well as the evolution of national character. So far, then, as there existed sentimental contrasts be- tween us and the United States, we, in the first place, simply shared them with other European nations; and, secondly, they were largely based upon an insufficient knowledge of the American character. These contrasts were looked upon quite differently on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean. There temporary ill will toward Germany originated not from human but from political unpopularity, but, in fact, from political mis- conception. Public opinion in the United States has been loath to give up the idea that the German Empire had aggressive intentions, in the main, within the sphere of the Monroe doctrine. Even to-day Americans are not quite free from suspicion, no matter how often and how sincerely and impressively Ger- many may give contrary assurances. However, in the last few years we have learned to know each other better, and this better knowledge produced a better understanding, which gradually dissipated the differences for which there are no serious and permanent causes on either side. [Stettiner Abendpost] The address which Congressman Bartholdt delivered in presenting the Steubbn Statue to the Kaiser gives expression to the speaker's admiration for German ideals and is at the same time a demonstration for peace, which is the more significant in these turbulent days. On the part of Germany the sincere wish has always been uppermost to maintain the best possible relations with the United States, and especially has everything been done under William II to strengthen them in every direction. The Kaiser has intimated on several occasions and before all the world that his efforts were directed toward a better mutual understanding of the two nations, and that to his knowledge no think- Presentation of the Replica ing man on this or the other side of the ocean believed in the possibility of a disturbance of the harmony and the continuance of our common interests. Both peoples, he said, were too much dependent upon each other through their mutual interests. The sovereign has also expressed the conviction that the himdreds of thousands of Germans who live in the United States, and who in their hearts have maintained their affection for the old Father- land, were paving the way for the undisturbed development of these mutual relations. These sentiments are undoubtedly shared by millions on the other side of the Atlantic, but, alas, there are also other millions there who are more or less unfriendly to Germany. As to this we should not be deceived, even by the fact that within the last few years these unfriendly views have been less emphatic and that the jingo press has been more reserved. Under all cir- cumstances it will be well to appraise the assurances of friendship, how- ever sincere they may be at the time, in accordance with real conditions and to take them cum grano sails. The movement in favor of international peace, which has recently made such great progress in America, also finds an echo in Mr. Bartholdt's address. We, too, fully appreciate the idea, and the German people have often enough demonstrated how highly they value the preservation of the peace. Never- theless there are still many obstacles in the way of a realization of the idea to secure lasting international peace, and the fate of the American arbi- tration treaties shows that the perception of this question is not wholly clear even in the United States. Germany will, as far as she can, fur- ther the initiative of President Taft in every way, and is willing to negotiate an arbitration treaty with America, but the value of such treaties it seems is being somewhat overestimated at Washington. In any event, we shall rejoice if the good relations which already unite us with official America can be further strengthened and, in the interest of peaceful progress, recorded black on white; and it affords us great satis- faction that the assurances of friendship and peace are given us at a time when the political horizon is full of threatening clouds. 8.4647°— 14 6 REPLICA OF THBjSTATUE OF BARON VON STEUBEN, Presented to His Majesty the German Emperor and the German Nation by the Congress of the United States. PROCEEDINGS IN CONGRESS RELATING TO BARON STEUBEN CONTINENTAL CONGRESS [Extracts from the Journals of the Continental Congress] TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 1778 A letter * * * * of the 6th December, from Baron DB Steuben,^ at Portsmouth, New Hampshire, with sundry letters, recommending him to Congress; * * * were read. NoTB. — Steuben's letter, which is in the Papers of the Continental Congress No. 19, V, folio 547, reads as follows: "Portsmouth, December 6, 1777. "Honorable Gentlemen: "The honor of serving a respectable Nation, engaged in the noble enterprize of defending its rights and Liberty, is the only motive that brought me over to this Continent. I ask neither riches nor titles. I am come here from the remotest end of Germany at my own expence, and have given up an honorable and lucrative rank; I have made no condition with your Deputies in France, nor shall I make any with you. My only ambition is to serve you as a Volun- teer, to deserve the confidence of your General in Chief, and to follow him in all his operations, as I have done during seven campaigns with the King of Prussia. Two and twenty years past at such a school, seem to give me a right of thinking myself in the ntmiber of experienced Officers; and if I am Possessor of some talents in the Art of War, they should be much dearer to me, if I could employ them in the service of a Republick, such as I hope soon to see America. I should willingly ptuchase at my whole Blood's Expence the honor of seeing one Day my Name after those of the defenders of your Liberty. Yotu: gracious acceptance will be sufficient for me, and I ask no other favour than to be re.ceived among your Officers. I dare hope you will agree [to] this my Request, and that you will be so good as to send me your Orders to Boston, where I shall expect them, and accordingly take convenient measures. "I have the honour to be, with respect, honorable gentlemen, "Your most obedient and very htmible servant, "Steuben." 1 STEtJBEN was the son of Major Wilhelm Augustin von Steuben, a Prussian army of&cer and a knight of the Pnissian ordre pour le m^rite. Steuben, however, used the name " DE Steuben ' * on various occasions instead of his family name "von Steuben." In signing his name, though, he generally wrote simply "Steuben." The use of "de" instead of "von" by Steuben was due, perhaps, to his close association with French officers both in France and America and to bis fre* quent use of their language, many of his letters and documents being written in French. The Steuben Statue Commission, after a careful investigation of the matter, decided upon "voN Steuben" as the correct name of the Baron. The Society of the Cinclmiati, however, records Steuben's name as "de Steuben." which appears in many of its documents, some of them having been prepared by STEtJBEN himself. 8S 86 Stattie of Baron von Steuben WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 1778 Whereas the Baron Steuben, a lieutenant general in foreign service, has, in a most disinterested and heroic manner, offered his services to these states in the quality of a volunteer: Resolved, That the president present the thanks of Con- gress, in behalf of these United States, to the Baron Steuben, for the zeal he has shewn for the cause of America, and the disinterested tender he has been pleased to make of his military talents; and inform him, that Congress cheerfully accept of his service as a volunteer in the army of these states, and wish him to repair to General Washington's quarters as soon as convenient.^ WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1778 A letter,* of the 17th, from the Board of War, was read; Whereupon, Resolved, That Mons. de Ponti^re ^ be appointed a captain of horse by brevet, and that Mons. de Ponceaux,' secretary to the Baron Steuben, have the brevet rank of a captain in the army of the United States: That Congress approve the proceedings of the Board of War with respect to Baron Steuben. monday, april 20, 1878 A letter, of 9, from Baron Steuben * * * were read: Ordered, That they be referred to the Board of Treasury. ^ Soon after his arrival in the United States, Baron Stsubgi^ proceeded to Vork Town, Pa., where the Continental Congress was in session. He stayed there from February s to 19, 1778. A committee of Congress consisting; of Mr. Witherspoon, Mr. McKean, Mr. F. L. Lee, and Mr. Henry was appointed to confer with Steuben about his service in the Continental Army, and they reported to Congress in the following words, viz: "The Baron Steuben, who was a lieutenant general, and aid-de-camp to the king of Prussia, desires no rank, is willing to attend General Washington, and be subject to his orders; does not require or desire any command of a particular corps or division, but will serve occasionally as directed by the general; expects to be of use in planning encampments, etc., and promoting the discipline of the army. He heard before he left France of the dissatisfaction of the Americans with the promotion of foreign oihccrs, therefore makes no terms, nor will accept of any thing but with general approbation, and particularly that of General Washington." The foregoing report was not entered on the Journals of Congress, but is printed in the Amer- ican State Papers, Class IX, Claims, p. ij. « This letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 147, I, foUo s'S- ' Aids to Steuben who accompanied him from Prance to the United States. Proceedings in Congress 87 MONDAY, MAY 4, 1778 A letter of the 30 April from Gen. Washington, was read; Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three : the members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Drayton and Mr. Chase. Note. — This letter from Washington is in the Papers of the Continental Congress No. 152, V, folio 535. It refers to Steuben's position in the Army and reads, in part, as follows: "The extensive ill consequences arising from a want of uniformity in dis- cipline and maneuvers throughout the army, have long occasioned me to wish for the establishment of a well-organized inspectorship, and the concurrence of Congress in the same views has induced me to set on foot a temporary insti- tution, which, from the success that has hitherto attended it, gives me the most flattering expectations, and will, I hope, obtain their approbation. " Baron DE Steuben's length of service in the first military school in Europe, and his former rank, pointed him out as a person peculiarly qualified to be at the head of this department; this appeared the least exceptionable way of introducing him into the army, and one that would give him the most ready opportunity of displaying his talents. I therefore proposed to him to under- take the office of Inspector General, which he agreed to with the greatest cheerfulness, and has performed the duties of it with a zeal and intelligence equal to our wishes. ***** "I shoidd do injustice, if I were to be longer silent with regards to the merits of the Baron DE SteubEn. His knowledge of his profession, added to the zeal which he has discovered since he began upon the functions of his office, lead me to consider him as an acquisition to the service, and to recom- mend him to the attention of Congress. His expectations with regard to rank extend to that of Major General. His finances, he ingenuously confesses, will not admit of his serving without the incident emoluments, and Congress, I presume, from his character and their own knowledge of him, will, without difficulty, gratify him in these particulars. "The Baron is sensible that our situation requires a few variations, in the duties of his office, from the general practice in Europe, and particularly that they must necessarily be more comprehensive, in which, as well as in his instructions, he has skillfully yielded to circumstances. "The success which has hitherto attended the plan, enables me to request, with confidence, the ratification of Congress, and is, I think, a pledge of the establishment of n. well combined general system, which insurmountable obstacles have hitherto opposed." TUESDAY, MAY S, 1778 The committee, to whom was referred the letter of 30 April, from General Washington, brought in a report: Whereupon, 88 Statue of Baron von Steuben Resolved, That Congress approve General Washington's plan for the institution of a well organized inspectorship : That the Baron Steuben be appointed to the office of inspector general, with the rank and pay of major general; his pay to commence from the time he joined the army and entered into the service of the United States: That there be two ranks of inspectors, under the direc- tion of the inspector general, the first to superintend two or more brigades, and the other to be charged with the inspection of only one brigade. SATURDAY, MAY 9, 1778 The Marine Committee, to whom the letter from Baron Steuben, recommending Captain Landais (of the French navy) was referred, report * * * Whereupon, Resolved, That Captain Landais be continued as a captain in the navy of the United States. WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 1778 A letter,^ of i6th, from Baron Steuben, was read. TUESDAY, MAY 26, 1778 Resolved, That the quarter master general be directed to furnish Baron Steuben with two good horses for his use. TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 1778 The Commissioners of claims at the Board of Treasury report,^ That there is due to Mrs. E. Swoope, for lodging & board- ing Baron SteubEN, his two aids, and two servants, 13 days, 104 dollars. Ordered, That said account be paid. SATURDAY, JULY 11, 1778 The Committee on the Treasury brought in a report'; Whereupon, ' This letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 164. folio 134. ' This report, dated June 22, is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 136, 11, folio 379. ■ This report is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 136, II, folio 397. Proceedings in Congress 89 Ordered, That a warrant issue on John Gibson, Esqf , audi- tor general, for fifteen htmdred dollars, in favour of John Hancock, Esq"", it being the sum of thirteen hundred dollars advanced Baron Steuben, at Boston, to enable him to prosecute his journey to confer with Congress at York town; and for two hundred dollars, the price of a horse delivered to the said Baron, who is to be accountable for the sum of 1,500 dollars. THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 1778 The Committee to whom was referred the letter from General Washington, relative to Baron Steuben, brought in a report : The Committee to whom General Washington's letter relative to the Baron Steuben, etc., etc., was committed, beg leave to report that they have had an Interview with the Baron, and have examined and attended to the proposals laid before them by that Gentleman, and having fully considered the Nature and Necessity of a well regulated Inspectorship for the Army of the United States; do Recommend the following Resolutions to be adopted by Congress; but as the well being of the Army in their opinion greatly depends on this important Office being established on the best military Principles, the Com- mittee recommend that the said Resolutions previous to their being finally Passed by Congress, be sent to the Commander in Chief for his perusal and observations thereon, and those of any General Ofl&cer to whom he may think to communicate them. Resolved, That an Inspector General of the Armies of the United States be appointed, with the Rank, Pay and Rations of a Major General. Resolved, That the Baron DE SteubEN be appointed' Inspector General of the Armies of the United States. * * ^ * * Ordered, That it be referred to General Washington, and that he be desired to consider the same, and return it to Congress, with his opinion and observations thereon. FRfflAY, AUGUST 28, 1778 Resolved, That Baron Steuben be requested forthwith, to repair to Rhode Island, and give his advice and assistance to General Sullivan, and the army under his command. 90 Statue of Baron von Steuben THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 1778 Congress took into consideration sundry reports from the Board of War, and thereupon came to the following reso- lutions : War Office, August 29, 1778. Present Mr. Peters, Mr. Pickering. The Board having considered the cases of Messrs. Ftihrer and Kleinschmit, lately first lieutenant in the Hessian corps in the service of the King of Great Britain, as stated in the letter of His Excellency Gen. Washington, referred to this board on the 18"" inst., having also conferred with the Baron Steuben on the subject, are of opinion Resolved, That a new corps of troops be raised by the name of the German volunteers, to consist of such deserters from the foreign troops, which have been or shall be in the service of the king of Great Britain, as shall be disposed freely to inlist therein. * * * That Lieutenants Fearer [Fiihrer] and Kleinsmit [Kleinschmit] have, for the present, the pay of captains in the service of the United States, etc. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 1778 A letter,^ of 5, from Baron Steuben, was read. Ordered, That it be referred to the Board of War. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER IS, 1778 A report of the committee on General Washington's letter, relative to Baron Steuben, which was referred to General Washington, being returned, with the General's observa- tions thereon, the same was read: Ordered, That the report and observations be referred to the Committee of arrangement, and that they be directed to prepare a plan of regulations for the inspectorship, agreeable to the said report and observations. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 1778 The Board of War, to whom was referred the letter of the Baron Steuben, relative to Mons. John Temant, having reported thereon, Congress took into consideration their report; and whereupon, ^ This letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress. No. 164, folio 146. Proceedings in Congress 91 Resolved, That Mr. John Temant be appointed a Ueu- tenant colonel in the service of the United States, and be ordered to repair to South Carolina forthwith, to perform the duties of inspector to the troops in the service of these States in South Carolina and Georgia, etc. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1778 A letter,* of 13, from General Washington, was read, relative to the inspectorship under Baron Stbuben. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1778 A letter,^ of 26th, from Baron Steuben, was read: Ordered, That it be referred to the Board of War. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1778 A letter,' of 28 November, from Baron Steuben, was read: Ordered, That it be referred to the Board of War, who are directed to pay immediate and particular attention to the matter referred to in the letter, that the same may be carried into eflFect without delay. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY IS, 1779 Congress took into consideration the reports^ of the com- mittee, appointed to confer with the Commander in Chief; and thereupon, agreed to the following Plan for the Department of Inspector General: Resolved, That there be an inspector general to the armies of the United States, with the rank of major general, who, in all future appointments, shall be taken from the line of major generals: That the duty of the inspector general shall principally consist in forming a system of regulations, for the exercise of the troops, in the manual evolutions and manoeuvres, for * The letter of Washington is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. isa. VI, folio 485. ' This letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 164, foUo 150. * This letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress. No. 164, folio 154. * This report is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 147, IV, folio 83. 92 Statue of Baron von Steuben the service of guards and detachments, and for camp and garrison duty: That the inspector general, and his assistants, shall review the troops at such times and places, and receive such returns for that purpose, as the Commander in Chief, or commanding officer in a detachment, shall direct; at which reviews, he or they shall inspect the number and condition of the men, their discipline and exercise, the state of their arms, accoutre- ments, and cloaths; observing what of these articles have been lost or spoiled since last review, and, as nearly as pos- sible, by what means; reporting the same, with the deficien- cies and neglects, to the Commander in Chief, or the com- manding officer of a detachment, and to the Board of War. That all new manoeuvres shall be iutroduced by the in- spector general, and all old ones performed according to the established principles, imder his superintendency: but he shall not introduce or practice any regulations relative to the objects of his department, save such as are made and estab- lished in the manner following: All regulations whatsoever to be finally approved and established by Congress. But the exigence of the service requiring it, temporary ones may, from time to time, be introduced by the inspector general with the approbation of the Commander in Chief, Etc That the inspector general, so far as relates to the inspec- tion of the army, be subject to the orders of Congress, the Board of War, and the Commander in Chief only. That there be allowed to the inspector general, in con- sideration of the extraordinary expences which attend the execution of his office, 84 dollars per month, in addition to the pay and rations of a major general, heretofore provided. War Oppice, January 22d, 1779. The Board having frequently conversed with the Baron Steubbn are clearly convinced, not only from the little value of our money and the extraordinary expences to which he is liable, but from his positive assurances that he has been obliged to draw a very large sum from his estate in Europe, which, altho, sufficient for his moderate support there, will not afford a diminution of the capital. He has, however, been obliged to draw such an amount as to decrease his capital, and from all circumstances there appears a probability of losing Proceedings in Congress 93 this valuable OflScer unless some allowance is made him sufficient for his support. He appears to be frugal and moderate in his expences, and by no means of an extravagant turn. He desires either to have his expences borne, of which he will render an account, and in that case he will throw in his pay; or that Con- gress will be pleased to ascertain the sum they will allow him for his support. He also seems to expect some indemnification for the expences of his voyage and other extra expences. As he is a foreigner of estimation in Europe , it can- not be expected that he will inake those pecuniary sacrifices American Officers submit to, and more especially as he has inducements to return to Europe, where from his character and connexions he will not be at a loss for employ- ment. The Board therefore thought it their duty to represent this matter to Congress, and as his case may be properly considered as an exception, any thing done for him need not be expected by futiu-e Inspector Generals. The Board therefore with submission, propose that the pay of the Department shall be fixed without reference to the Baron, and that in consideration of his ex- pence and other services he has rendered it be resolved. That the Baron Steuben (besides the pay established for that Office by Con- gress) be allowed the sum of 84 dollars pr Month while in the service, as In- spector General of the Army of the United States, and that the sum of 4000 dol- lars be paid him, he to be accountable.' FRIDAY, MARCH 19, 1779 A letter^ of 27 February, from Baron Steuben was read. MONDAY, MARCH 29, 1779 A letter, of 25, from Baron Steuben was read, accom- panied with a system of regulations for the infantry of the United States ; also, a letter from the Board of War, rep- resenting that Baron Steuben, inspector general, has formed a system of exercise and discipline for the infantry of the United States; that the same has been submitted to the inspection of the Commander in Chief, and his remarks thereon and amendments incorporated in the work; that it has been examined with attention by the Board, and is highly approved, as being calculated to produce important advan- ^ This report is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 147, III, folio 197. It bears an indorsement in the writing of Charles Thomson: "In Congress, April 12, 1779. " Congress resumed the consideration of the letter of 22 January and 2 April, 1 779, relative to an allowance to be made to Baron Steuben for his expences, and to Lieutenant Colonel Fleury and others, for extra services in assisting the Baron in formulating regulations for the order and disci- pline of the army. After debate. Ordered, That they be referred to the Board of Treasury." ' Steuben's letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. r64, folio 169. 94 Statue of Baron von Steuben tages to the states; and therefore praying "that it may receive the sanction of Congress, and be committed to the press:"' Whereupon, Congress passed the following order, to be prefixed to the said regulations for the order and discipline of the troops of the United States : Congress judging it of the greatest importance to prescribe some invariable rules for the order and discipline of the troops, especially for the purpose of introducing an imi- formity in their formation and manoeuvres, and in the service of the camp : Ordered, That the following regulations be observed by all the troops of the United States, and that all general and other officers cause the same to be executed with all possible exactness. Ordered, That the Board of War cause as many copies thereof to be printed as they shall deem requisite^ for the use of the troops. SATURDAY, APRIL 3, 1779 War Office, 2nd April, 1779. The Board have been witnesses of the great diligence and attention of Colonel Fleury, Captains Walker, L 'Enfant and Duponceaux, during the Baron Steuben's having been employed in forming the regulations of his Department. Notwithstanding the Baron's superior knowledge of the subject, there were subordinate assistances necessary, which were with great attention and labour afforded him by these gentlemen in the several branches assigned them. We have the honor to enclose the Baron's letter " on that subject, and beg to report: Colonel Fleury, Captains Walker, L'Enfant and Duponceaux, having re- sided at Philadelphia for several months past and assisted Baron Steuben in forming the regulations for the order and discipline of the troops of these States, which has subjected them to many extraordinary expences, in con- sideration thereof, Resolved, That the following sums be allowed those gentlemen. To Col Fleury Dollars " Captn Walker Dollars " Captn L'Enfant Dollars " Captn Duponceaux Dollars > Stbobkn's letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 164, folio 174; that of the Board of War, dated March 27. is in No. 147. i". f"l'o 143. 'Tbis letter, dated March 30, is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 147. HI. folio 165. Proceedings in Congress 95 The Board of War report, that the committee appointed at York town to confer with Baron Steuben, having promised to report that Mons. I'Bnfant should have the commission of captain of engineers, and no report having been made on that subject, the Board are of opinion. That Mons. TEnfant be appointed a captain in the corps of engineers in the service of the United States, to have rank from the i8th day of February, An. Dom. 1778.^ Resolved, That Congress agree to the said report. Resolved, That the remainder of the report be postponed. MONDAY, APRIL S, 1779 On motion by Mr. F. 1,. Lee, and seconded by Mr. Dyer, Resolved, That Baron Steuben, inspector general, be informed by the President, that Congress entertain a high sense of his merit, displayed in a variety of instances, but especially in the system of military order and discipline formed and presented by him to Congress. MONDAY, APRIL 12, 1779 Congress resumed the consideration of the letters of 22 January and 2 April, 1779, relative to an allowance to be made to Baron Steuben, for his expences, and to Lieutenant Colonel Fleury and others for extra services in assisting the Baron in forming the regulation for the order and discipline of the army : after debate. On motion of Mr. G(ouvemeur) Morris, seconded by Mr. (Meriwether) Smith, Ordered, That they be referred to the Board of Treasury. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 1779 Whereas Major General Baron Steuben has been em- ployed upwards of six months in preparing regulations for the department of Inspector General, and the discipline of ^ This report is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 147. Ill, folio 159. 96 Statue of Baron von Steuben the army, in which he has been assisted by the gentlemen hereafter named, and it being represented by the Board of War that they have been indefatigable in the said business and expended large sums for their support in this city, and that the regulations have great merit and will be productive of signal advantage in the economy and discipline of the army, therefore. Ordered, That a warrant issue on the treasurer, in favour of Baron Steuben, for two thousand five hundred dollars; one thousand whereof for the use of Lieutenant Colonel Fleiury, six hundred for the use of Captain Walker, five hun- dred for the use of Captain I'Enfant, and four hundred for the use of Captain du Ponceaux, as a compensation for their respective services and expences aforesaid. That another warrant issue on the treasurer, in favour of Baron Steuben for four thousand dollars on accoimt of his expences.' WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 1779 A letter,^ of 12, from Major General Baron Steuben, was read. Ordered, That the letter from Baron Steuben be referred to the Board of War. MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1779 A letter,' of the 17th, from General Washington, was read: Ordered, That so much of the letter as respects an advance of money to Baron Steuben, be referred to the Board of Treasury. ' This report, dated April is, is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 136, III, folio 243. ' Stbtibbn's letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 164, folio 1 78. * This letter is printed in the Diplomatic Correspondence of the American Revolution (Whar- ton), II, 171. Proceedings in Congress 97 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 1779 A report * from the Board of Treasury was read : Treasury Office, August 24th, 1779. The Committee on the Treasury, having taken into consideration a letter from General Washington of the 17th instant, referred to them by Congress, beg leave to report the following Resolution : Resolved, That a warrant issue on the Treasurer in favor of the Honble the Board of War for Dollars, to enable them to defray from time to time such extra expences of Major General Baron DE Steuben and other Officers in his situation, as they shall judge reasonable and proportioned to the circumstances of the persons applying: for which sum the said Board of War is to be accountable. Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three : The members chosen, Mr. (John) Armstrong, Mr. (Jesse) Root, and Mr. (Nathaniel) Scudder. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 1779 Resolved, That a member be added to the committee, to whom was referred the report of the Board of Treasury, of 24 August last, respecting Baron Steuben, in the room of Mr. (John) Armstrong, who is absent. The member chosen, Mr. (Samuel) Atlee. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1779 A letter, of i6, and one, of 17 November, from Baron Steuben; and a letter, of 30 of the same month, from Cap- tain Galvan, were read, accompanied with sundry certifi- cates in favour of Captain Galvan.^ Ordered, That the same be referred to the Board of War. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 1779 A report from the Board of War on the letter, of 30 November, from Captain Galvan, was read. Note. — This report states that Baron SteubEn requests that Captain Galvan now be appointed to the Office of Sub-Inspector. For this purpose he must have the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. General Washington thinks the rank that may be given Mr. Galvan should not exceed tliat of a major. Con- gress voted against granting Mr. Galvan the commission of major. 1 This report is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 136, III, folio 577. See under October 21, 1779, post. * Galvan's letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 78, X, folio 183. 84647*— 14 7 98 Statue of Baron von Steuben MONDAY, JANUARY 24, 1780 A letter,* of i8, from General Washington, was read; Ordered, That it be referred to the Board of War; that the Board confer thereon with Major General Baron Steuben, and report to Congress. SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 1780 The committee, appointed on the loth to consider a motion relative to the army, brought in a report: ^ The Committee appointed the loth Inst, to consider a motion relative to the army, having agreeable to the intentions of Congress consulted General Washington on the subject, and considering also that all matters relative to the establishing and reinforcing the army have been lately referred to the Board of War, who are to confer with the Baron de Steuben on the subject beg leave to report. That the said Motion together with a letter from G. Wash- ington to the Committee dated the 23d Inst, be referred to the Board of War. Ordered, That the said motion, together with a letter, of the 23, from the Commander in Chief to the committee, be referred to the Board of War. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1780 Congress took into consideration the motion made by Mr. (John) Mathews, seconded by Mr. (Elbridge) Gerry, viz. Resolved, That the Board of War be directed to confer with Major General Baron Steuben, respecting the expences of himself and family and report thereon. On the question to agree to the foregoing resolution, the yeas and nays were required by Mr. (William) EUery. So it passed in the affirmative. ' This letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 152, VIII. folio 339. 2 This report, in the writing of Elbridge Gerry, is in the Papers of the Continental Congress No. 21, folio 335- It is indorsed by Thomson; " Delivered and read January 29. 1780; agreed to January 29." Draft of Washington's letter is in the Washington Papers, Series A. V. pt. i. 153. Proceedings in Congress 99 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 1780 A report ^ from the Board of War was read, respecting Baron Stkubbn : At a Board of War, February 28, 1780. Present Col Pickering, Mr. Peters, Col Grayson In obedience to the direction of Congress, of the 25th instant, the board have conferred with Major General Baron Steuben respecting his expendi- tures, and beg leave to inform Congress, that it appears he has disbursed the sum of two hundred and fifty Louis d'ors in his preparations and voyage to America, and that since his arrival, and during his continuance in the service of the United States, he has expended the farther sum of five hundred and forty six Louis d'ors. They therefore beg leave to report. That Major Genl Baron Steuben, be allowed the sum of two hundred and fifty Louis d'ors in bills of exchange, for reimbursing him the expenses of himself and family in coming to America. That the farther sum of five hundred and forty six Louis d 'ors in bills of . exchange be advanced to him, for which he is to be accountable. Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three : The members chosen, Mr. (Robert R.) Livingston, Mr. (Thomas) McKean, and Mr. (Oliver) Ellsworth. MONDAY, MARCH 6, 1780 The committee, to whom was referred the report from the Board of War, respecting Baron Steuben, delivered in their report: ^ The Committee to whom was referred the report of the Board of War of the twenty eight Feby. last, relative to the expenditures of Majr. Genl SteubEN, having considered the same , humbly report the following state of facts ist. That Majr. Genl SteubEN appears to have been an officer of high rank in the Prussian service where his military talents were improved by twenty years' experience and several active campaigns under his Prussian Majesty. 2d. That he was warmly recommended to the Comrs. of the United States at Paris by the Comte de Vergennes and the Comte D'St. Germain; that he embarked for America without any lucrative views as far as your Committee are enabled to judge from the whole tenor of his conduct, more particularly from his having made no contract of any kind with the Comrs. at Paris. 1 This report is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 147, IV, folio 195. 2 This report, in the writing of Robert R. Livingston, is in the Papers of the Continental Con- gress, No. 19, V, folio 5C39. It is indorsed by Charles Thomson: "Delivered in March 6, 1780. Postponed." loo Statue of Baron von Steuben 3d. That since his appointment to the inspectorship he has greatly improved the discipline of the Army of the United States and introduced many regula- tions and maneuvres equaly useful and new. 4th. That his conduct has received the highest approbation of Genl Washing- ton, a considerable of whose confidence he appears to enjoy. 5th. That he has received no compensation from Congress for the expenses of his voyage or his other expenditures since his arrival except an advance of 500 dollars and his appointments as a Majr. General, both of which have fallen considerably short of his necessary expenditures. 6th. That his continuance in the army of the United States will probably be attended with important advantages in perfecting the discipline which he has already introduced. Upon this state of facts the Committee beg leave to report the following resolution : Whereas, Majr. Genl. Steuben hath rendered essential services to the cause of America by the introduction of several improvements in military discipline and by his assiduous attention to the duties of his department, And, Whereas, Congress are desirous of expressing their sense of those services and of the disinterested manner in which they were tendered, as well as to replace the sums of money that he has expended while in their employ, and to make up the deficiencies of his pay. Resolved, That one thousand pounds sterling in bills of exchange to be drawn on Mr. Jay agreeable to the resolution passed the day of last be paid to Majr. Genl. SteubEN for the purposes aforesd. RoBT. R. Livingston Chairman. TUESDAY, MARCH 7, 1780 Congress took into consideration the report of the com- mittee on the report of the Board of War, respecting Baron Steuben, and thereupon came to the following resolutions: Resolved, That Major General Baron Steuben be allowed the sum of 250 Louis d'ors, in bills of exchange for reim- bursing him the expences of himself and family coming to America. Resolved, That the further sum of five htmdred and forty six I/Ouis d'ors in bills of exchange be advanced to him, for which he is to be accountable. THURSDAY, MARCH 9, 1780 A letter,* of 8th, from Baron Steuben, was read. * Steuben's letter is in the Papers of the Continental Concress. No. 164, folio 182. Proceedings in Congress loi THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 1780 A report^ from the Board of Treasury was read; Where- upon, Treasury Office, March i6, 1780. Sir, The Baron dE SteubEN to whom Congress by a Resolution of the 7th inst: advanced five hundred and forty six Louis D'ors in Bills of Exchange, applies to this Board to know the rate of Exchange at which they are to be charged: for as he is under the necessity of selling these Bills immediately, to purchase necessaries for the ensuing campaign, he finds on Enquiry, he can not get for the Bills but half the sum in currency, he could, if he was furnished with the specie: this being the case, the disadvantage resulting to him under these circumstances is too great, unless Congress shall be pleased to fix the rate of Exchange at tlie present coiu'se. If that should be declined, he then desires that in lieu of the Bills, to be delivered him in advance, he may have their equivalent in current dollars occasionally, as he may want them ; and for the present the sum of 50,000 dollars The Board are of opinion, this last proposal will be the most equitable under the present fluctuating State of Bills of Exchange and therefore beg leave to report Ordered, That a warrant issue on the treasurer, in favour of Major General Baron Steuben, for fifty thousand dollars, for which he is to be accountable; and that the Board of Treasury forbear carrying into execution that part of the resolution of Congress, of the yth instant, which directs the sum of five hundred and forty six louis d'or in bills of ex- change to be advanced to Baron Steuben. MONDAY, MARCH 20, 1780 War Office, March 20, 1780. Sir, At the request of the Baron Steuben, the board have the honor to transmit to Congress his sentiments on the subject of the proposed reduction of the number of Regiments in the army.^ TUESDAY, MARCH 21, 1780 A report ^ of the Board of "War was read; Whereupon, At a Board of War, March 20, 1780. Present Mr. Peters, Col Grayson The Board had the honor to transmit Baron Steuben's opinion upon the proposed reduction of the Regiments in the army. Congress can best judge of the expediency or inexpediency of the measure. If they should be of opinion that no reduction should at present be attempted, ' This report is in the Papers of the Continental Consress, No. 136, IV, folio 137. ' This letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 148, 1, folio 63. ' This report is in the papers of the Continental Congress, No. 147, IV, folio 359. I02 Statue of Baron von Steuben there will be a deficiency of subaltern officers; but as few of those as possible should be created, as multiplying them will occasion embarrassments should a reduction be thought of at a future day. Yet some addition to the number of these officers will be necessary. The board therefore beg leave to report, Resolved, That it be recommended to the governments of the several states, to suspend making new appointments of officers on the regiments of their respective lines, except where the Commander in Chief or commanding officer in the southern department shall deem such appointments indis- pensably necessary. SATURDAY, MARCH 25, 1780 Congress took into consideration the report of the Board of War on a motion for reducing the battalions in the army, together with Baron Steuben's thoughts thereon: Ordered, That the consideration thereof be postponed to the first of December next. THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 1780 On motion of Mr. (Robert R.) Livingston, seconded by Mr. (James) Searle, Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to pro- ceed to headquarters, to confer with the Commander in Chief on the subject of his letter of the 3d instant together with the report of the Board of War, and the letter from Baron Steuben, on the subject of a reduction of the regi- ments, and the report of the commissioners on the arrange- ment of the staff departments of the army ; and that a com- mitteee of three be appointed to report instructions for such committee. Congress proceeded to the election of a committee to re- port instructions; and the ballots being taken, the members chosen were, Mr. (Robert R.) Livingston, Mr. (Oliver) Ells- worth and Mr. (John )Mathews. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12, 1780 A letter ' from Baron Steuben was read. ^ STKtTBEN'a letter is in tlie Papers of ttie Continental Concress, No. 164, folio 186. Proceedings in Congress 103 MONDAY, AUGUST 14, 1780 A letter, of 3d, from Baron Steuben was read: Ordered, That the same, together with the plan respectmg the inspector's department be referred to the Board of War. THURSDAY, AUGUST 24, 1780 The Board of War, to whom was referred the letter of 3, from Baron Steuben, with the the plan for conducting the inspector's office, delivered in a report, which was read. At a Board of War, Augt. 23d, 1780. Present Mr. Peters, Col Grayson The Board having considered the letter of the 3d instant from Baron SteubEn together with his proposed plan for the establishment of the department of the Inspectorship, beg leave to recommend the following In Congress Establishment of the department of the Inspectorship Whereas the institution of this department hath been found productive of the great utility to the armies of the United States, and experience hath shewn that it may be rendered still more useful by an extension of its powers and objects Therefore Resolved That the former establishment by a resolution of the 18 of February 1779 be repealed, and that the department hereafter have the following form, powers, and privileges.' MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 1780 Congress took into consideration the report of the com- mittee to whom was referred the consideration of the estab- lishment of the inspecting department; Whereupon, Congress agreed to the following plan of the inspecting and mustering department : (See Journals of the Continental Congress, Vol. XVIII, pages 855-860) Resolved, That Baron Steuben be, and hereby is, continued inspector general of the armies of these United States, and vested with power to appoint all officers necessary to carry the aforesaid plan " into execution, they being first approved of by the commander in chief. 1 Detailed description of the department and its duties is omitted here. The resolution is printed in full in Journals of the Continental Congress, Vol. XVII, pages 765-770. 2 New plan for the inspecting and mustering department of the army of the United States. This report is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 22, folios 91-9S. I04 Statue of Baron von Steuben SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 1780 A letter,' of this day, from Baron Steuben, M. G. was read MONDAY, OCTOBER 30, 1780 A letter,* of 28, from Major General Baron Steuben was read. Resolved, That Congress approve the appointment, by the Commander in Chief, of Major General Greene to the com- mand of the southern army, agreeably to their resolution of the 5th instant, and adopt his opinion, that the talents and service of Major General the Baron SteubEN, inspector general, will be very useful in the southern department; to which he is, therefore, hereby directed to repair. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1780 Ordered, That the report ' of the Board of War, of the 4, respecting cloathing, be referred to the Committee of Esti- mates and Ways and Means. War Office, Nov. 4, 1780. Sir, The Board beg leave to lay before Congress, the enclosed letter from Major Genl the Baron Steuben mentioning the disposition of the Minister of France to transmit a requisition for clothing and other necessaries for the Officers and Soldiers of the American Army. Etc. THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 1781 A letter,* of 8th, from Baron Steuben, was read: Ordered, That it be referred to the Board of War. MONDAY, JANUARY 22, 1781 A letter,' of 1 1 , from Baron Steuben, was read. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 1781 Note. — ^A letter of February 23d from Major General Steuben to the Board of War was read on this day, the indorsement states. It is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 164, folio 218. ^ This letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 164, (olio 198. * This letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 164, folio 194. ' This report is in the Papers of the Continental Congress. No. 147, IV, folio 659. * Steubsn's letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 164, folio 202. ^ STI;uBe^^'s letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 164, folio axo. Proceedings in Congress 105 MONDAY, MAY 7, 1781 A letter, of 5th, from the Board of War, was read, enclosing a letter of 25 April, from Major General Baron SteubEN.' FRIDAY, JXn-Y 6, 1781 A letter,^ of Jmie 12, from Major General Baron dE Steuben, was read: Ordered, That it be referred to the Board of War. WEDNESDAY, JULY 11, 1781 A report from the Board of War was read. Whereupon, At a Board of War July nth 1781. Present Mr. Peters, Colonel Grayson, General Cornell. The Board having taken into consideration the letter of the 12th ulto. from Major General SteubEN referred to them from Congress. Beg leave to report, Ordered, That the Board of War be authorised to draw a warrant on the paymaster general in favour of Captain du Ponceau, aid de camp to Major General SteubEN for eight hundred and eighty-eight dollars in bills of the new emission on account of his pay, for which sum he is to be accountable. THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 1782 The committee, consisting of Mr. Cornell, Mr. L-ovell, Mr. Motte, to whom was referred a plan for conducting the inspector's department reported by the secretary of war, delivered in their report, which being read was agreed to as follows : Plan for condticting the inspector' s department Resolved, That the establishment of the inspector's de- partment by the resolutions of the 25th of September, 1780, and all subsequent resolutions relative thereto, be, and hereby are, repealed; and that the department hereafter have the following form, powers, and privileges, viz: * * * Note. — ^The resolution is printed in full in the Journals of the Continental Congress. 1 This letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 148, I, folio 369. 2 SteubSn's letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 164, folio 226 io6 Statue of Baron -von Steuben Resolved, That Major-gen. Baron Steuben be, and hereby is, continued inspector-general of the armies of these United States, and vested with power to appoint all officers necessary to carry the aforegoing plan * into execution, they being first approved of by the commander in chief. FRIDAY, JULY 26, 1782 A motion was made by Mr. Duane, seconded by Mr. Root, That Baron SteubEN receive, until further order of Congress, in addition to his pay as major-general, 80 dollars per month for his traveling expenses in the execution of his office of inspector-general, to be computed from the loth day of January last. On the question to agree to this, the yeas and nays being required by Mr. Condict, it was resolved in the affirmative. MONDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1782 The committee, consisting of Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Clark, and Mr. Carroll, to whom was referred a letter of the 5th,2 from Major General the Baron de Steuben, having con- ferred with him thereupon, submit to the consideration of Congress the following facts, resulting from the commimi- cations made to them, supported by the testimonials of the commander in chief and many other principal officers of the army : I St. That the Baron dE SteubEn was in Europe possessed of respectable military rank, and different posts of honor and emolument, which he relinquished to come to America 1 New plan for conducting the inspector's department. 2 December 5, 1782, Steuben addressed a letter to the President of Congress requesting a com- mittee to enquire into and report his situation and pretensions; which bcins granted, he stated his pretensions in the words following, viz: ' ' My demands were these; to join the army as a volunteer; that I wished to be known by the comnjander in chief, and to leave it to the officers of the army if my capacity entitle me to hold a commission in it; that the general would employ me in such a branch, where he thought my services the most useful; that I was determined not to ask a favour or reward previous of having deserved it; that, however, I expected from the generosity of Congress, that, in imitation of all European Powers, they would defray my expenses, although a volunteer, according to the rank which I held in Europe, as well for myself, as my aids and servants." Proceedings in Congress 107 and offer his services at a critical period of the war, and without any previous stipulations: 2dly. That on his arrival he actually engaged in the army in a very disinterested manner, and without compensations similar to those which had been made to several other foreign officers: 3dly. That under singular difficulties and embarrassments in the department in which he has been employed, he has rendered very important and substantial services, by intro- ducing into the army a regtdar formation and exact dis- cipline, and by establishing a spirit of order and economy in the interior administration of the regiments; which, besides other advantages, have been productive of immense savings to the United States; that in the commands in which he has been employed, he has upon all occasions conducted himself like a brave and experienced officer; the committee are therefore of opinion, that the sacrifices and services of the Barpn dB Steuben, justly entitle him to the distinguished notice of Congress, and to a generous compensation, whenever the situation of public affairs will admit: the committee farther report, that the Baron de Stexjben has considerable arrearages of pay due him from these states on a liquidated account, and that having exhausted his resources in past expenses, it is now indis- pensable that a sum of money should be paid him for his present support, and to enable him to take the field another campaign, and propose' that the sum of 2400 dollars be paid him for that purpose, and charged to his account aforesaid; Whereupon, Resolved, That the foregoing proposal of the coromittee be referred to the superintendent of finance to take order. The committee farther observing, that from the nature of the department in which the Baron dE Steuben is em- ployed, he is imder the necessity of making frequent jour- nies, by which he incurs an additional expense, and is often deprived of the allowance of forage to which he is entitled; thereupon, io8 Stattie of Baron von Steuben Resolved, That the Baron dE Steuben be allowed 300 dollars per month, in lieu of this extra pay and of subsistence and forage for himself and family, including wagon as well as saddle horses; and that these allowances hereafter cease. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 1783 On motion of Mr. M'Henry, seconded by Mr. Peters, Resolved, That the secretary at war be, and he is hereby directed to issue to Captain North aid-de-camp to Major General the Baron Steuben, the brevet commission of major in the army of the United States. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24, 1784 Note. — ^Though the Journal of the Continental Congress for this day does not record the fact, the following letter was received from Baron SteubEn resigning his commission as inspector general and referred to a committee consisting of Mr. Lee, Mr. Howell, and Mr. Williamson, as indorsed on the original copy now in the Library of Congress: "Sir: "Tho a foreigner, I flatter myself that my zeal for the interests of the United States renders me worthy to partici- pate in the happiness of seeing this Confederacy exalted to that Rank which the Virtue and perseverance of its Citizens have merited. "The Object for which I left my coimtry, my friends & all that was dear to me, is accomplished. — My companions in the late war have returned to the Class of Citizens, re- warded by the success which has attended their patriotic labours. The French Officers satisfied with the honorary & pecuniary rewards they have received from the United States, still expect from the bounty of their Sovereign those marks of his approbation which he waits to bestow. — My feelings inform me that it is time to quit the stage & to sheath that sword which has been drawn (for the last time) in this glo- rious revolution. Proceedings in Congress 109 "I Return into the hands of Congress the Commission which I had the honor to receivejrom that honorable Body, & beg they will accept my respectful acknowledgements for the confidence with which I have been honored. "As a proof of my attachment to the United States & wishes for their interest & welfare, I take the Hberty of offering yovir Excellency some Military ideas upon a peace establishment. — If Congress find them worthy considera- tion, I shall with pleasm-e give the necessary details to any person they may please to name. " My engagements with the United States being fulfilled & my Military career finished, I request the attention of Con- gress to a report of their Committee on my claims, dated 30th December, 1782. To the justice and generosity of that Honorable body I commit myself & am with the greatest respect, " Sir, Your Excellency's Most Obedient Humble Servant, "Steuben. " Annapolis, " 20 March 1784." TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 1784 Congress took into consideration the report of a committee, consisting of Mr. Lee, Mr. Howell, and Mr. WilUamson, to whom was recommitted their report on a letter of 24th March, from major general baron Steuben, together with the report of a committee respecting him, entered on the journal of the 30th December, 1782, and the first resolution reported by the committee being amended to read as follows : "That the resignation of Baron Steuben, late inspector- general and major general, be accepted: and that the super- intendent of finance take order for paying him 13,000 dollars, as a compensation for the sacrifices he made when he entered the service of the United States." no Statue of Baron von Steuben A motion, was made by Mr. Gerry, seconded by Mr. Read, to postpone the consideration of the said resolution, in order to take up the following: Whereas major general baron Steuben, at the instance of the friends of America, and with the advice and concur- rence of the ministers of the United States in France, did, in the latter end of the year 1777, come over to America, and producing the most honorable testimonials of his mili- tary rank and abilities, did proffer his services to Congress, declaring at the same time that he would not make any previous stipulations for a reward, but would leave it to be determined by Congress after they should have proofs and experience of his merit and services. And whereas the abilities and zeal of that meritorious officer, in the department of inspector-general, have been the principal cause of introducing and perfecting discipline in our army, and establishing such a system of economy as produced an extraordinary reduction of expenses: Resolved, That the superintendent of finance be directed to issue securities bearing an annual interest of six per cent, and payable as other debts due to the army, to the said major general baron Steuben, to the amount of 45,000 dollars, in full of all sums due to him for pay, arrearages of pay, rations, subsistence, half pay or commutation, and of all other demands for services and sacrifices in the cause of the United States. That the superintendent of finance be directed to advance in specie to the said baron Steuben, the sum of in part payment of the preceding resolve: And on the question to postpone for the purpose above mentioned, the yeas and nays being required by Mr. Howell, New Hampshire, Mr. Foster, no no Blanchard, no Massachusetts, Mr. Gerry, ay ay Patridge ay Proceedings in Congress n i Rhode Island, Mr. EUery, no no Howell, no Connecticut, Mr. Sherman, no no Wadsworth, no New York, Mr. DeWitt, no no Paine, no New Jersey, Mr. Beatty, no no Dick, no Pennsylvania, Mr. MiflBlui, ay ay Montgomery, ay Hand, ay Maryland, Mr. M'Henry, ay ay Stone, ay Virginia, Mr. Hardy, ay ay Mercer, ay Monroe, ay North CaroHna, Mr. "Williamson, no div Spaight, ay South CaroUna, Mr. Read, ay div Beresford, no So the question was lost. THURSDAY, APRIL 15, 1784 Congress resumed the consideration of the report on the letter of the 24th March, from Major General Baron StexibBn ; and thereupon, Resolved, That the resignation of Baron Steuben, late inspector general and major general, be accepted. That the thanks of the United States in Congress assem- bled, be given to Baron SteubEn, for the great zeal and abili- ties he has discovered in the discharge of the several duties 112 Statue of Baron von Steuben of his office; that a gold hilted sword ^ be presented to him, as a mark of the high sense Congress entertained of his char- acter and services, and that the superintendent of finance take order for procuring the same. That the proper officers proceed to the liquidation of moneys due from the United States to Major General Baron Steuben; that the superintendejit of finance report to Con- gress his opinion of the most speedy and efficacious means of proctning and paying the same either here or in Europe, That Baron Steuben be assured, that Congress will adopt these or such others as shall appear most proper and effectual, for doing him that justice which the peculiarity of his case authorizes. 1 This sword was presented to STBUBiiN on January 4, 1787, with the following letter from Gen. Knox, Secretary of War: War Offi.ce, Jan. 4, 1787. Sir. The United States in Congress assembled by their act of the 15th of April 1784 expressed their high sense of your military talents, services, and character, and as an honorable evidence thereof, they directed that a gold hilted sword should be presented to you. It is with great satisfaction I embrace the occasion of presenting you with the invaluable memorial of their sentiments and your eminent merits. Were it possible to enhance the honor conferred by the sovereign authority, it would be derived from the consideration, that their applause was reciprocated by the late illustrious commander in chief, and the whole Anny. I have the honor to be, Sir, With the most perfect consideration, Your obedient and humble serv't. H. Knox. The honorable Major General Baron db Steuben, late inspector general of the armies of the United States. To this letter Stbubk.n replied on January 5, 1787, as follows: Sir. I have been honored with your letter, and Capt. Stagg has delivered me the sword which the United States were pleased to order by their act of the 15th of April, 1784. Permit me, sir, to request that you express to Congress the high sentiments of respect and acknowledgment with whidi I receive this distinguished mark of their regard. To a soldier such sentiments are ever dear, and that this is accompanied with the approbation of our late commander in chief, of your self, and the army in general, will always be my greatest glory. Accept sir, my sincere thanks for the very flattering manner in which you have conununicated this present, and believe me Sir, &C. STEtJBEN. The New York Daily Advertiser of January 11, 1787, contained the following description of the sword which Congress presented to Steuben: It was made in London, under the direction of Col. Smith, and executed by the first workmen in that kingdom. The small medalions on each side of the top of the hilt, presents an eagle perched on a bunch of arrows, with a wreath of laurel in her bill and wings extended ready to rise. The modest Genius of America fills the front medalion on the hilt, dressed in a flowing robe, ornamented with the new constellation, holding an olive branch in her right arm, and a dagger in her left hand, and the fair field of liberty flourishing in the backgroimd; It is answered on the opposite side with the full figure of Minerva, in martial dress, robed and ornamented with the same stars; the bird of wisdom is seated near; her left hand being extended, presents the olive branch, while the right is properly supported by the spear, this figure is martial and gay; the other is mild and modestly embraces the olive branch, but holds the dagger with firmness. The bow of the hilt presents drums, colours, halberts, etc. etc. etc. The sword and blue book a fills the two lower ones,— two eagles, seated on knots of colours, surrounded with stars and holding a sprig of an olive branch in the bill with extended wings, are emblems of peace and protection, under the sword and blue book (which our country caimot too strictly attend to). The two opposite medalions are filled with trophies of war, and the following inscription modestly placed out of view, under the shield: "TJie United States to Major General Baron Steuben, zsth, April, 1784, /or military merit," a The Blue Book was Steuben's regulations for the drilling of the Army. Proceedings in Congress 113 On motion of Mr. Sherman, seconded by Mr. EUery, Resolved, That the superintendent of finance take order for immediately advancing to Baron Steuben, on account, the sum of ten thousand dollars.* On the report of a committee, consisting of Mr. Howell, Mr. Gerry and Mr. Williamson, to whom was referred a letter of the 19th March, from Major General Baron SteubEN, late inspector general, informing that he had appointed Major North, inspector to the troops under the command of General Knox. Resolved, That Congress approve of and confirm the . ap- pointment of Major William North as inspector to the troops remaining in the service and pay of the United States. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23, 178S On the report of a committee, consisting of Mr. Howell, Mr. Gerry, Mr. Williamson, Mr. Hardy and Mr. Cadwallader, to whom was referred a letter, of 5th February, from Baron Steuben. Resolved, That the commissioners of the treastiry pay to Baron jjE Steuben, late major-general and inspector general in the armies of the United States, the amount of two several liquidated debts due to him from the United States, one of which was due March 21st, 1782, being 6000 dollars, and the other June loth, 1784, being 1800 58-90 dollars, together with the interest thereon, which payment shall be made out of the requisition for the present year. The following paragraph being imder debate : That in consideration of the Baron Steuben's having relin- quished different posts of honor and emolument in Europe, and rendered to the United States most essential services, he be allowed and paid the sum of A motion was made by Mr. Cadwallader, seconded by Mr. Vining, to amend by adding, " 25,000 dollars to be paid as 1 This motion Tvas adopted unanimously on a yea and nay vote. Previous to its adoption a motion by Mr. Jefferson, of Virginia, tliat " Sio.ooo be presented to Baron Stexjbbn " was lost by a vote of 3 nays, 7 yeas, r divided. A motion by Mr. Paine, of New York, that "$8,000 be presented to Baron Struben" also was lost by a vote of 3 nays to 8 yeas. 84647°— 14 8 114 Statue of Baron von Steuben aforesaid." A motion was made by Mr. King, seconded by Mr. Holten, to amend the amendment, by striking out the words "as aforesaid," and, in lieu thereof, inserting "by in- stallments in manner hereafter mentioned." And on the question to agree to the amendment to the amendment, the yeas and nays being required by Mr. Holten, it was resolved in the affirmative. Ordered, That the further consideration of the report be postponed till tomorrow. THURSDAY, MARCH 24," 1785 Congress resumed the consideration of the paragraph in the report of the committee on the letter of 5th February from Baron Steuben, which was yesterday under debate, and a motion was made by Mr. Cadwallader, seconded by Mr. Pinckney, after the words " sum of," to add " 25,000 dollars: " And on the question to agree to this, the yeas and nays being required by Mr. EUery and Mr. Pinckney, the question was lost. Ordered, That the further consideration of the report be postponed till Monday next. MONDAY, JUNE 13, 1785 On the report of a committee, consisting of Mr. Monroe, Mr. Williamson and Mr. Howell, to whom was referred a letter of the 3d May, from Baron Steuben, Resolved, That the Board of Treasury take order for the immediate payment of the liquidated debt specified in the resolution of the 23d of March, 1785, to be due to Baron Steuben on the loth day of June, 1784, amounting to 1826 53-96 dollars, together with the interest thereon. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 1785 Congress took into consideration the report of a committee, consisting of Mr. Howell, Mr. Gerry, Mr. Hardy, Mr. Grayson and Mr. Wilson, to whom were referred a report on a letter of 5th February, 1785, from Baron SteubEn, and a motion of Mr. Pinckney on the same subject. Proceedings in Congress 115 Resolved, That in full consideration of the Baron dE Steuben's having relinqmshed different posts of honor and emolument in Europe, and rendered most essential services to the United States, he be allowed and paid out of the Treas- ury of the United States, the sum of 7,000 dollars, in addition to former grants.* THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1787 On motion of Mr. Smith, in behalf of the committee, to whom was referred a memorial of Baron Steuben, Ordered, That the secretary of Congress write to General Washington for a copy of the papers enclosed in Mr. President Lam-en's letter of the 19th February, 1778, marked "com- mittee's conference with Baron Steuben." MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 1788 The committee consisting of Mr. Oilman, Mr: Otis, Mr. Williamson, Mr. Carrington, and Mr. L.'Hommedieu, to whom was referred a letter from the Baron dE Steuben, requesting an adjustment of his claims on the principles of a contract alleged to have been entered into between him and the United States previous to his engaging in their service, submit the following report, viz: Note. — The report sets forth in detail Steuben's offer of his services to the United States and their acceptance by Congress, as shown in the fore- going proceedings, and then concludes: "Your committee further report, that although the baron has disclaimed any preliminary stipulations for reward, and though Congress do not appear to have engaged to indemnify him for emoluments that may have been given up in Evurope, yet he has received from Congress, strong and singular proofs of their desire to place him in easy circum- stances; and under the different heads of allowance for expenses, pay as major general and inspector, commutation ' Prior to adopting the resolution granting Baion SIEDB8N, motions to fix the amount at (15,000, Sio.ooo, and $8,000, respectively, were lost. 1 1 6 Stattie of Baron von Steuben of half pay for life, and a subsequent grant, according to the statement made by the commissioner of army accounts, he has received above 44,000 dollars in specie, or other money reduced to specie value, besides provisions and forage to a large amount; and of the specie, more than 32,900 dollars have been paid since the beginning of the year 1784. In consideration of the foregoing facts and all circumstances, your committee are of opinion, that although the Baron Steuben has no claim against the United States, founded on a contract, yet considering the merit and services of the Baron Steuben, and the peculiarity of his situation, your committee beg leave to report that he be allowed at the rate of dollars per annum during his natural life." A motion was made by Mr. Hamilton, seconded by Mr. Lee, that the said report be committed; and on the question for commitment, the yeas and nays being required by Mr. Oilman, it was resolved in the affirmative. FIRST CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION [Extracts from the Annals and Journals of Congress] HOUSE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 1789 Resolved, That the memorial of Baron dB Steuben be referred to the Secretary of the Treasury to report thereupon to the next session of Congress. FIRST CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION HOUSE TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 1790 The report from the Secretary of the Treasury (Alexander Hamilton) on the memorial of the Baron DE Steuben, was read a first and second time, arid conrmitted to a Committee of the Whole. The report of the Secretary of the Treasury is printed in American State Papers, Class IX, relating to Claims, pages ii to i6, as follows: No. s 1st Congress. 2d Session. Claim of the Baron de STEUBE>f Communicated to the House of Representatives, April 6, 1790 Treasury Department, March 29, 1790. The Secretary op the Treasury on the memorial of the Baron DE Steu- ben, referred to him by an order of the House of Representatives, of the 2Sth of September last, respectfully reports: That it appears from the papers accompanying the said memorial that the memorialist grounds his present claim on the United States upon a contract which he alleges to have been made with Congress, at York, in the year 1777, previous to his joining the American army. That the transaction respecting this alleged contract is stated by the memo- rialist in the following words: "At the arrival of the Baron DE Steuben, in the year 1777, he was received by Congress with marks of distinction, and, the day after his arrival, was waited on by a committee of Congress, composed of Dr. Witherspoon, Mr. Henry, of Maryland, and a third, whom at this time he cannot recollect. This committee demanded of the baron the conditions on which he was inclined to serve the United States, and if he had made any stipulations with the commissioners in France. He replied that he had made no agreement with them, nor was it his intention to accept of any rank or pay; that he wished to join the army- as a volunteer, and to render such services as the 117 ii8 Statue of Baron von Steuben commander-in-chief should think him capable of, adding that he had no otlier fortune than a revenue of about six hundred guineas per annum, arising from places and posts of honor in Germany, which he had relinquished to come to this country; that, in consideration of this, he expected the United States would defray his necessary expenses while in theu- service; that if, unhappily, this country should not succeed in establishing their independence, of if he should not succeed in his endeavors for their service, in either of those cases he should consider the United States as free from any obligations towards him; but if, on the other hand, the United States should be happy enough to establish their freedom, and that he should be successful in his endeavors, in that case he should expect a full indemnification for the sacrifice he had made in coming over, and such marks of their generosity as the justice of the United States should dictate; that, if these terms were agreeable to Congress, he waited only their orders to join the army without delay. The committee were pleased to applaud the generosity of his propositions, in thus risking his for- tune on that of the United States. The committee then left him, in order to make their report. The next day. Congress gave him an entertainment; after which, the President, Mr. Laurens, told him it was the desire of Congress that he should join the army immediately, which he did. " That the evidence adduced by him in support of it consists principally of these documents: a certificate from John Witherspoon, dated November i, 177s, another from Elbridge Gerry, dated the 23d of November, 1785, and a third from William Duer, without date, which several certificates are annexed to the statement above recited, and refer to it; also, two letters, one from Thomas McKean, dated nth September, 1788, and another from Francis Lightfoot Lee, dated 25th September, in the same year; all which gentlemen were, at the time of the transaction, members of Congress, and three of them, viz: John Witherspoon, Francis Lightfoot Lee, and Thomas McKean, mem- bers of the committee mentioned in the said statement. That the certificate from the said John Witherspoon is as follows : Princeton, November i, 1785. I can recollect very distinctly that I was one of the committee who waited on Baron SteubEn, on his arrival at Yorktown. He then could speak no English, and I believe I was the only member of the committee who could speak French, and was therefore obliged to be his interpreter to the other members, as well as to make the report to Congress. I am sensible that the above is a just and fair account of what passed on that occasion, and that we were all sensible that the Baron's proposals were honorable and generous; and accordingly he was sent to General Washington, to receive his directions from him. John Witherspoon. That the certificate from the said Elbridge Gerry is as follows: New York, November 23, 1785. The subscriber certifies that, having a seat in Congress, at the time of the Baron de Steuben's arrival at Yorktown, he well remembers the facts herein stated, excepting what relates to the entertainment, which he doubts not was provided, and to the time of the baron's arrival at that place, which was in the beginning of the year 1778. The subscriber further certifies that, in ques- tions agitated in Congress while he has been a member, respecting the allow- ance that should be made in pursuance of the within stipulation, he has considered the claim of the baron for a full indemnification and compensation as a claim of justice founded in the verbal contract of the parties. E. Gerry. Proceedings in Congress 119 That so much of the certificate of the said William Duer as relates to the fact is as follows: " I was a member of Congress, and of the Board of War, when the Baron DE Steuben arrived at Yorktown, and, though I was not present at that place when the baron had his first interview with the committee of Congress, being absent for a few days on a visit to Manheim, I perfectly remember that the account I received on my retima to Yorktown, of the engagements entered into with the Baron SteubEn by the honorable Congress, was perfectly similar to that which the Baron had stated." That the material part of the letter of the said Thomas McKean is as follows : " My memory enables me to say that you came to Yorktown, in the begin- ning of February, 1798; ' that the Congress being informed of it proceeded to name a committee (of which I was one) to wait upon you, learn the object of your visit, and to confer with you about entering into the service of the United States. They might have received ftuther instructions but I do not remember them. The committee (of which Doctor Witherspoon was chair- man) called upon you the next morning at your lodgings, when a conversation was had between the doctor and you in French, which he interpreted to his brethren ; part of what was thus communicated was, that you came to America with a view to tender your services to Congress; that you had made no stipu- lations with their commissioners in France, and was desirous to join the army as a volunteer, and to act there in such situation as the commander-in-chief should think you best qualified to fill; that you had held posts of honor and profit in the army of the King of Prussia, and afterwards (I think) of the Prince of Baden, which last you had relinquished in order to embark in the American cause, whose fortunes you were willing to partake ; that if it failed you asked nothing but a support, according to your condition, while you served, and if it succeeded, and your services were approved, you would expect compen- sation for the sacrifices you had made, and the rewards commonly bestowed by a happy and grateful people on faithful and successful servants. This, sir, is the amount of what I recollect." That the material part of the letter of the said Francis Lightfoot Lee is as follows: " I was one of the committee appointed by Congress to wait upon you on yoiu: arrival at Yorktown, and understood French sufiiciently to comprehend pretty fully all that you said to the committee. "You informed them that you held considerable military rank in Europe, with posts and emoliunents to the amount, I think, of five or six hundred guineas; that yotur great desire of being serviceable to the American cause had induced you to relinquish these, and offer your service to Congress; that you asked for neither rank nor pay, but expected yotu: expenses in the army to be defrayed; and if America should be successful in her contest, you depended upon the justice and generosity of Congress to make you amends for your losses, and reward your service; if unfortunate, you were willing to share her fortune. I do not recollect any particular stipulation for reimbursing the specific sum of money; but it was, most certainly, well understood by the committee and Congress that, if ova contest ended happily, and your services were approved, you would have a just claim to very liberal compensation for what you had sacrificed, and for your services. "Congress was very much pleased with your generous proposals when reported to them, as their consequent behaviour to you sufficiently verified. " That besides the foregoing document, there are two letters accompanying the said memorial, one from Horatio Gates, dated the 6th of December, 1785; the other from Richard Peters, dated the 30th of October, 1785; the former ^ Misprint, should read 1778 instead of 1798. i2o Statue of Baron von Steuben of whom was President, and the latter, member of the Board of War, at the time of the said transaction. That the letter from the said Horatio Gates contains the following passage: " UTien I was President of the Board of War, I well remember your coming to Yorktown, and being most honorably received by Congress. A committee was immediately appointed to wait on you, and after they had conferred with you, you were invited to an elegant entertainment, and every mark of dis- tinction was shown that could be shown to an officer of the first rank, into whose hands the inspection and discipline of the army was to be intrusted. With regard to pecuniary matters, I always understood they were to be settled upon the most liberal and generous plan, regard being had, not only to the high station you were to fill, but the sacrifice you had so generously made in coming to serve this country. " That the letter from the said Richard Peters contains the following pas- sages: "Belmont, October 30, 1785. "Sir: In answer to your inquiries respecting my recollection of what passed at Yorktown relative to your affairs, at your arrival at that place, I will state such circumstances as I became acquainted with. They are chiefly such as I understood from members of Congress, some of whom were appointed to assist the Commissioners of the Board of War, and to explain and communi- cate such matters as were necessary for our information in the business of our Department. "You were received by Congress with every mark of distinction their situation admitted, and had more particular attention paid to you than I had known given to any foreigner. Much pleasure was expressed at the arrival of a person of your military knowledge and experience, at a time when the want of discipline in our army, and the economy it produces, were severely felt and regretted. You were waited on by a committee appointed for that purpose, from some of whom, as well as the other members of Con- gress, I was informed that you had conducted yourself, as to the manner in which you agreed to enter oiur service, with much generosity and disin- terestedness, having made no terms either as to rank or pay, leaving it to Congress, after experience of your talents and usefulness as a volunteer in our service, to fix such as your merits and exertions entitled you to. Your having made no contract with our ministers in France was mentioned as a circumstance which prevented embarrassments, as some terms had been made with gentlemen, which did not meet the approbation of Congress. You agreed to take the risk of our aifairs; if we were unsuccessful, you would of consequence be deprived of any means of compensation for the sacrifices you had made of a handsome revenue in Europe, and must have suffered the loss of military reputation generally attendant on unsuccessful service. But I always understood and believed that in case our cause issued happily, and yoin- conduct was approved. Congress deemed it a matter of obligation on the United States to indemnify you for the losses and expenses you had sustained, as well as to compensate you for services, in common with other officers. Precedents for such indemnification having been established even antecedent to experience in service, I never looked upon this as a claim upon the generosity, but as a demand upon the justice of this country. And although there was no written agreement to this purpose, there was clearly an implied contract. Your situation being fully stated, and your expecta- tions explained. Congress desired you, through their President, to repair to camp and join the army; and the Board of War was directed to assist you for this purpose in such matters as were requested." That the following documents have been supposed to militate against the admission of the contract relied upon by the memorialist: First. A letter from him to Congress, dated Portsmouth, December 6, 1777, in the following terms: Proceedings in Congress 121 "Hon. Gentlemen: "The honor of serving a respectable Nation, engaged in the noble enter- prise of defending its rights and liberty, is the only motive that brought me over to this continent. I ask neither riches nor titles; I am come here from the remotest end of Germany at my own expense, and have given up an honorable and lucrative rank; I have made no condition with your deputies in France, nor shall I make any with you. My only ambition is to serve you as a volunteer, to deserve the confidence of your general-in-chief , and to follow him in all his operations, as I have done during seven campaigns with the King of Prussia; two-and-twenty years passed at such a school seem to give me a right of thinking myself in the number of experienced officers; and if I am possessor of some talents in the art of War, they should be much dearer to me if I could employ them in the service of a republic, such as I soon hope to see America. I should willingly purchase at my whole blood's expense the honor of seeing one day my name after those of the defenders of your liberty. Your gracious acceptance will be sufiBcient for me, and I ask no other favor than to be received among your officers. I dare hope you will agree with this my request, and that you will be so good as to send me your orders to Boston, where I shall expect them, and accordingly take convenient measures. "I have the honor to be, with respect, honorable gentlemen, " Yoiu: most obedient and very humble servant, "Steuben." Secondly. A report on the files of Congress, of the committee which con- ferred with the memorialist at Yorktown, in these words: The Baron SteubEn, who was a lieutenant general and an aid-de-camp to the King of Prussia, desires no rank, is willing to attend General Washington, and be subject to his orders; does not require or desire any command of a particular corps or division, but will serve occasionally as directed by the general; expects to be of use in planning encampments, etc., and promoting the discipline of the army. He heard before he left France of .the dissatis- faction of the Americans with the promotion of foreign officers, therefore makes no terms, nor will accept of anything but with general approbation, and particularly that of General Washington. Thirdly. A letter from the memorialist to the President of Congress, dated in December, 1782, and containing this passage: " My demands were these ; to join the army as a volunteer, that I wished to be known by the commander-in-chief, and to leave it to the officers of the army if my capacity entitied me to hold a commission in it ; that the general would employ me in such a branch, where he thought my ser\'ices the most useful; that I was determined not to ask a favor or reward previous to having deserved it; that, however, I expected from the generosity of Congress, that, in imitation of all European powers, they would defray my expenses, although a volunteer, according to the rank which I held in Europe, as well for myself as my aids and servants." That the Secretary, desirous of knowing what explanation of these docu- ments the memorialist might have it in his power to give, did, on the 26th of January past, write him a letter in tlie following words: "Among the documents which relate to the circumstances of your entrance into the service of the United States, are a letter from you to Congress, dated at Portsmouth, the 6th of December, 1777; a report of tlie committee which con- ferred with you at Yorktown : and a letter from you to the President of Congress, dated in December, 1782. Enclosed you will find copies of the two first, and the next act from the last. As these may seem to militate against your claims as founded in contract, I think it proper, before I report to the House of Rep- resentatives upon yom- memorial, to afford you an opportunity of making such remarks upon those documents as may appear to be advisable." 122 Statue of Baron von Steuben That to this letter the Secretary received an answer, dated the 27th of the same month , of which the following is a translation : "New York, January 27th, 1790. " Sir: The letter which you did me the honor of addressing to me yesterday 1 have received; and am indebted to you for affording me an opportunity to elucidate the nature of my engagement with the United States. From the information I received of the Minister of France, that the preferment of for- eigners to military employments had been a cause of discontent in the Amer- ican Army, I foresaw the necessity of pursuing measures different from those which had been adopted by my predecessors, in order to gain admission into your Army. " Being sure of success in my enterprise, as soon as the Commander-in-chief and the army should be convinced of the advantages of my military arrange- ments, there was but one difficulty to surmount, and, from the complexion of the times that difficulty was of the greatest magnitude. It depended upon obtaining such a post in the Army as would enable me to make use of the knowledge of my profession, and to render it beneficial to the interests of the United States, without exciting the dissatisfaction and jealousy of the officers of your army. Any conditions proposed by me under these circumstances, tending to insure me a recompense proportioned to my sacrifices and my services, would not have failed to render all negotiations abortive. But pro- posals to serve the United States as a volunteer, without rank or pay, could give no umbrage; and surely the proposition was a generous one. Suppose, however, I had added that, for the honor of serving the United States, I had resigned in my native country honorable and lucrative employ- ments; that I had come to America at my ovm expense, for the purpose of fighting her battles ; and that, after she should have obtained her independency, I would decline all compensation for the services I had rendered. I would ask, sir, in what light would such a proposition have been received by so enlightened a body as the Congress of the United States. To me it appears that common sense would have declared the author of such a proposition to be either a lunatic or a traitor. The former, for his coming from another part of the globe to serve a nation unknown to him ; and at the same time renouncing all his possessions for a cause to which he was an utter stranger, without having in view the gratification of ambition or the advancement of interests. The latter, as it might appear, that his making such generous proposals to introduce himself into your army was with the most dangerous views, for which he probably received compensation from the enemy. "In view of these aspects, would the person making similar propositions have been admissible? "What measures, then, were necessary to be pursued to enable to render those services to the United States which I had proposed to myself. "Having made these observations, sir, I entreat you to read my letter to Congress of January, 1778; badly translated as it is, it will be intelligible to you, as being one of those who are particularly informed of the critical situation of Congress and of the army at that period of the Revolution. "You will easily discover, sir, that this letter was dictated by no other motive than to facilitate my reception into your Army. The effect has answered my conjectures and my desires. If, however, I should be charged with having made use of illicit stratagems to gain admission into the service of the United States, I am sure I have obtained my pardon of the Army, and I flatter myself of the citizens of this Republic in general. In consequence of this letter, I was directed by a resolution of Congress to join the Anny; notwithstanding which, I judged it necessary to proceed first to Yorktown, as well to pay my respects to that august body who presided over a nation whom I was going to serve, as to learn the advantage or disadvantage which might result to me from so hazardous enterprise. At my arrival the Congress did me the honor of appointing a committee to confer with me. If my first letter and the answer to it had been considered by tliem as a sufficient engage- Proceedings in Congress 123 ment, was there any occasion for this committee? Was there any necessity for this conference ? All that passed in this conversation is sufficiently proved , and needs no furtlier repetition. "If, on impartial examination of the subject, it should appear that my propositions to this committee were incompatible with my first letter to. Con- gress I confess that my judgment misleads me. " I represented to the gentlemen of that committee that I had not entered into any agreement with the American Commissioners in France; that I would not insist upon making any present, but would serve the United States as a volunteer, without rank or pay, on condition, notwithstanding, that my expenses in the Army should be defrayed. I declared to them that I had no other fortune than a revenue of about six hundred louis-d'Ors, arising from a post I held in my native country, which I was going to resign, to serve the United States being disposed to hazard the whole on the event; and that not until I had succeeded in my undertakings, and the United States had obtained their liberty by a satisfactory peace, would I ask an indemnification for my sacrifices and disbursements, and for such other marks of acknowledgement and generosity as in the justice of Congress should be deemed adequate to my service. " It appears that the committee reported to Congress I had made no condi- tions, and that I would not accept of anything without general approbation, and particularly that of General Washington; although I do not allow that report to be exact in its literal sense, yet I do not find it so extraordinary, that expectations founded upon the event of a revolution of this nature should be represented as making no stipulations. Besides, it seems probable that the politics of the times made it necessary to give such a complexion to the report as would remove all jealousy. "Permit me, sir, to suggest here a question; why not this report (like all other reports of committees) entered upon the journals of Congress? I doubt whether it would have been contradicted by me; but at least it would have afforded me an opportunity of taking precautions. I assure you, sir, upon my honor, that this report was never brought into view previous to the year 1778, and that I did not see it until General Washington had the goodness to send me a copy of it. Be this as it will, no person, sir, is better informed than yourself how difficult it was at that time to introduce a foreigner into your Army even without any condition whatever. "With regard to my second letter of December, 1782, I confess I do not find in that any contradiction of the facts represented to have taken place in the conference at Yorktown. " In this letter I state that my desires were to join your Army as a volunteer; that I did not ask any employ, until the approbation of the Commander-in- Chief, and the opinion of the Army, should assign me a place in which I should be useful, that I ask no compensation until it was merited, provided, however, that my expenses for my own person as well as my suite were de- frayed by the United States, agreeable to the usage of European powers. I perceived that it may be asked, why I did not at that time insist upon my contract. I answer, that it was my wish never to mention it, as it appeared to me more honorable to the United States, and more flattering to myself, to receive a recompense dictated rather by generosity than by conditions, and that it was with reluctance and through urgent circumstances, upon that stipulation which was the basis of my engagement at Yorktown. But there is another reason why this contract was not mentioned in my letter immedi- ately after the conclusion of the War. "The Congress were besieged by a crowd of foreign officers, who were as little satisfied as the National troops, which was a circumstance, that, prob- ably, induced some respectable persons, then members of Congress, (in whom I place the greatest confidence,) to advise me to pass over in silence all that related to a former contract, and to rest my pretensions solely on the merits of my services, and the generosity of the United States. If my memory is 124 Statue of Baron von Steuben faithful, yourself, sir, were of the number of those by whose opinion I was governed. "Once more I assure you, sir, that it is with regret I have recourse to that contract; but there remains no other resource to obtain that justice which is due to me. "These, sir, are all the explanations I can give you; if they are not suffi- cient, I submit to the consequences. All that I ask of you is, to, accelerate the decision; no event can render my situation more unhappy — ^in fact, it is insupportable. "There must always remain one consolation; the truth of the facts stated in my memorial to Congress cannot be disputed without raising a doubt of the veracity of some of the most worthy and respectable characters in the United States, several of whom have held, or now hold, tlie highest places in the Government of their country. "Having no secretary, you will please, sir, to excuse my addressing you in the language which is more familiar to me than the English. " I have the honor to be, etc." The Secretary further reports: That on the 5th of May, 1778, the memorialist was appointed by Congress inspector general, with the rank and pay of major general, to which was afterwards added a further allowance for the extra service and expense inci- dent to the office of inspector-general. That there appears on the journals of Congress a report of a committee of the 30th of December 1782, stating, "ist. That the Baron de Steuben was in Europe possessed of a respectable military rank, and different posts of honor and emolument, which he relin- quished to come to America, and offer his services at a critical period of the war, and without any previous stipulations. "2d. That on his arrival, he actually engaged in the army in a very disin- terested manner, and without compensations similar to those which had been made to several other foreign officers. "3rd. That under singular difficulties and embarrassments in the depart- ment in which he had been employed, he has rendered very important and substantial services, by introducing into the army a regular formation and exact discipline, and by establishing a spirit of order and economy in the in- terior admmistration of the regimente; which, besides other advantages, have been productive of immense savings to the United States; that in the com- mands in which he had been employed, he has, upon all occasions, conducted himself like a brave and experienced officer. "The committee, are, therefore, of opinion, that the sacrifices and services of the Baron de Steuben justly entitle him to the distinguished notice of Congress, and to a generous compensation, whenever the situation of public affairs will admit. The committee further report, that the Baron DE Steuben has considerable arrearages of pay due to him from these States, on a liqui- dated account, and that, having exhausted his resources, it is now indispen- sable thatasumof moneyshould be paid him for his present support, and to enable him to take the field another campaign, and propose that the sum of two thousand four hundred dollars be paid him for that purpose, and charged to his account aforesaid; whereupon Congress resolved " That the foregoing proposal of the committee be referred to the Superin- tendent of Finance to take order." That on the 15th of April 1784, Congress did also resolve "That the thanks of the United States, in Congress asembled, be given to Baron SteubEN, for the great zeal and abilities he has discovered in tlie dis- charge of the several duties of his office; that a gold-hilted sword be presented to him as a mark of the high sense Congress entertain of his character and Proceedings in Congress 125 services; and that the Superintendent of Finance take order for procuring the same ; that the proper officers proceed to the liquidation of moneys due from the United States to Major General Baron Steuben; that the Superintendent of Finance report to Congress his opinion of the most speedy and efficacious means of procuring and paying the same, either here or in Europe; that Baron Steuben be assured that Congress will adopt these or such others as shall appear most proper and effectual for doing him that justice which the peculiar- ity of his case authorizes. " That on the 27th of September, 1785, Congress did fiuther resolve "That, in full consideration of the Baron DE StEubEn's having relin- quished different posts of honor and emolument in Europe, and rendered most essential services to the United States, he be allowed, and paid out of the Treastuy of the United States, the sum of seven thousand dollars, in addition to former grants; that the Baron DE Steuben has received at different times sums equal to the amount of the pay and emoluments annexed to his station in the American army, to the commutation of a major general, and to the sum expressed in the resolution last recited." A question arises whether the acceptance of these appointments, emolu- ments, and allowances, did virtually supersede the antecedent contract relied on by the memorialist, admitting it to have existed. To which he answered, "That it cannot be presumed that an individual, in accepting from a Gov- ernment the emoluments annexed to a station to which he is appointed for the service of that Government unsolicited by him, could remove a prior and more beneficial contract. "That the more natural presumption is, that Congress, by conferring those emoluments, meant to ascertain and limit the expenses they had stipulated to bear, and to support the respectability of the office they had thought proper to create. "That, as major general, he received the pay and other emoluments allowed to other major generals of the army; as inspector general, he received an extra allowance in consideration of extra trouble and expense. "That the emoluments allowed to an officer in service can only be referred to the services he renders; they can have nothing to do with an indemnity for revenues relinquished, and can never be deemed, by mere inference and im- plication, to extinguish a contract founded on that principle. "That with regard to the acceptance of the last grant, it was a matter of pure necessity proceeding from a situation absolutely indigent; and that the reverse of a disposition to acquiesce in it has been imiformly manifested on his part." Having stated the foregoing particulars, which are the most material that have come under the observation of the Secretary, relating to the claim of the memorialist, he proceeds to remark: That the statement made by the memorialist of what passed in the confer- ence at Yorktown, is authenticated by such strong, direct, and collateral evi- dence, as ought, in the opinion of the Secretary, to seciue full credit to the existence of the fact. Waiving the regard due to the memorialist's own asser- tion, it is not supposable that if his representation had been ill-founded, it could have obtained the sanction of so many disinterested persons, agents in or witnesses to the transaction. That notwithstanding this, it may be inferred, as well from the written report of the committee, as from other circumstances, that the idea of a precise contract did not generally prevail. It is probable that as the indemnity and reward for the sacrifices and services of the baron were by 126 Statiie of Baron von Steuben him made to depend on the success of a national revolution, the mention of them was viewed rather as a suggestion of expectations than as a stipulation of terms. This might the more easily have happened, as it is presumable that the situation of the affairs at the time must have disposed Congress to con- sider an officer who had had opportunities of the memorialist, as a valuable acquisition to the service, and to regard a compliance with the expectations intimated by him, in the event of success, as too much a matter of course to need a stipulation. That this view of the affair appears to the Secretary to afford a satisfactory solution of any difficulties which might result from seem- ingly discordant circumstances, and to place all the parts of the transaction in a simple and consistent light. Upon the whole, therefore, as it cannot with propriety be questioned that a conversation of the kind stated by the baron did take place at the con- ference at Yorktown; as the services rendered by him to the United States are acknowledged to have been of a very signal and very meritorious nature ; as the expectations alleged to have been signified by him, in the conference, are all of them reasonable in themselves, being nothing more tlian that his necessary expenses, while in the service of the United States, should be de- frayed by them; and that, in case they should establish their independence, and he should be successful in his endeavors to serve them, that he should receive an indemnification for the income he had relinquished in coming to this country, and to such marks of the generosity of the Government as its justice should dictate. The Secretary is of tlie opinion that, whether the transaction relied upon by the baron be deemed to have the force of a contract or not, it will be most consistent with the dignity and equity of the United States to admit it as the basis of a final adjustment of his claims. Should this opinion appear well founded, it will remain to designate the rule by which the necessary expenses of the memorialist are to be adjusted. Taking it for granted that his actual expenses will not be deemed a proper one, there occurs to the Secretary no better criterion than the current allow- ances annexed to the stations he filled. This excludes the half-pay or com- mutation. It is presumed that the current allowances to the officers of the American army, in general, were regulated wholly with a view to have their present support, according to their respective situations, and the half-pay granted as a future reward. According to this principle, the Secretary has caused an account to be stated, which is hereunto annexed, in which the memorialist is credited with his emoluments as major general and inspector general (exclusive of half-pay or commutation), and with an annuity of five hundred and eighty guineas (being the amount of the income stated to have been relinquished by him) from the time he left Europe to the last of December, 1789, with interest at six per cent per annum; and is charged with all moneys, under whatever denomination, received by him from the United States, with interest at the like rate; upon which statement there is a balance in his favor for seven thou- sand three hundred and ninety-six dollars and seventy-four ninetieths. In addition to this, he would be entitled, for the remainder of his life, to tlie yearly sum of five hundred and eighty guineas as a continuation of the indem- nity for the income relinquished; and to such reward as the Government, Proceedings in Congress 127 in its discretion, should think fit to allow, for which purpose a moderate grant of land, if deemed expedient, would suflBce. The Secretary begs leave further to state, that there is good ground to believe that the above-mentioned balance will be short of a sufficient sum to discharge the debts now owing by the memorialist, and contracted partly to enable him to come to this country, and partly for his subsistence here; and, in the last place, to observe that the situation of the memorialist, who (being a foreigner) voluntarily came to offer his services to the United States in a critical and perilous moment, and who, from the circumstances of his having been a for- eigner, is less likely to participate in the collateral rewards which in numerous instances await those who have distinguished themselves in the American revolution, (while he cannot, like many other foreign officers, look for rewards elsewhere,) gives a peculiarity to his case which strengthens his other preten- sions. That it appears unequivocally that his services have been of a nature peculiarly valuable and interesting to the American cause, and such as furnish weighty considerations, as well public as personal, for rescuing him from the indigence in which he is now involved, and from the still greater extremities with which he is threatened. A settlement on the principles suggested in this report will terminate all the claims of the memorialist on the United States in a manner equally satisfactory to him, and honorable to them. All which is humbly submitted. Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury. MONDAY, APRIL 19, 1790 The report of the Secretary of the Treasury on the memo- rial of the Baron Steuben, was read a second time. This report was lengthy; the reading and discussion employed the attention of the House this day. The result was the adoption of a motion introduced by Mr. Gerry, "That a committee be appointed to report a bill, or resolutions, in conformity to the report of the Secretary of the Treasury". The committee appointed consisted of Messrs. Gerry, Wads- worth, Vinning, Lawrence, and Smith of South Carolina. FRIDAY, APRIL 30, 1790 Mr. Gerry, from the Committee appointed for the purpose, presented a bill for finally adjusting the claims of Frederick William de Steuben. tuesday, may 4, 1790 The House resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole on the bill for finally adjusting and satisfying the claim of Frederick William de Steuben, Mr. Livermore in the Chair. 128 Statue of Baron von Steuben Mr. Stone moved that the report of the Secretary of the Treasury on the Baron's memorial should be read; the Clerk read the same. The committee proceeded in the discussion of the bill. The clause which proposes an annuity for life was objected to. Several amendments were proposed and lost. A lengthy debate was supported on other propositions, but a motion for the committee's rising prevented a decision. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 1790 The House again resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole on the bill for adjusting the claim of Baron Steuben, Mr. Livermore in the Chair. After some time spent on the bill, the committee rose, and reported it to the House without amendment. The bill was ordered to lie on the table. FRIDAY, MAY 7, 1790 The House proceeded to consider the bill for finally ad- justing and satisfying the claims of Frederick Wiluam DE Steuben, which lay on the table. Mr. Page (of Virginia) made the following remarks, which is believed to be the only speech reported on this subject: "Mr. Speaker: * * * Sir, this illustrious veteran offered his serv- ices on such generous terms, and served us so essentially, that I shall blush for Congress should the ideas of some gentlemen now prevail. It is unworthy of Congress, after having so long enjoyed the benefits of those serv- ices, now to be thus coldly scrutinizing the terms on which he offered them, and speaking of them as of little importance. I shall weigh them not with the dollars pro- posed; they are far beyond any sum which we can give. * * * If I should be at liberty to propose a compensa- tion for the sacrifices he made by coming to America, and serving in her war, and to recompense him for his great services, I am sure I shall propose a much larger sum than has yet been talked of. Proceedings in Congress 129 " Sir, had the Baron stipulated to receive but 2 per cent on the articles under his direction, or I may say on what he saved, he would be entitled to much more than is now pro- posed to be given him. The economy he introduced into the army was the occasion of an immense saving. Who can say now what was saved in arms, accoutrements, and ammimition, and by the reduction of baggage and forage? I have been told that officers, who had loaded a wagon with their baggage, were soon reduced to a single pack- horse. "Some gentlemen have made light of the discipline which has been attributed to the Baron, and told us of the affairs of Btmker's Hill, Trenton, Princeton, and Germantown. It was true these were brilliant actions; but the member from South Carolina (Mr. Smith) and the member from Delaware had replied ftilly to this observation. They well observed, that brilliant as those actions were, valor without discipline is often vain, and may lead only to destruction; that the commander in chief did wonders without the Baron, and (they might have added) he was wonderful in resoiurces, and ' in himself a host.' But we should not now consider what the commander in chief did before he had the Baron's assist- ance, but what he did with his assistance, and what use he made of his services; and to this, as far as relates to the Baron, he has repeatedly and generously borne ample tes- timony. "Sir, the Baron, as Adjutant-General and Director-Gen- eral, was peculiarly adapted to the ptnpose of the Ameri- can Army. Having served twenty-two years in the Prus- sian army, which Americans had been taught to believe was the best disciplined in the world, his discipline was more readily embraced, and more confidence reposed in it than would have been the case had almost any other man, of any other nation, undertaken that great task. The praise now given to the Baron is no disparagement therefore to other 84647°— 14 9 1 30 Statue of Baron von Steuben officers. The Commander-in-chief stood in need of an Ad- jutant like him, from the peculiar situation of our army, and has acknowledged his services; therefore it does not become us to speak of them as unimportant. 1» •(• •!» •!• S(! "Sir, I have asked officers, and some of them now in this House, whether I have misunderstood or overrated the Baron's claim, and I have been constantly told that I did not. Though I had not the honor of being in the army, I was well informed by my correspondents there of many important circtunstances ; and on inquiring what were the effects produced by the new Adjutant and Director-General (the Baron Steuben), I was told that they were visible in many economical arrangements, in dispositions of corps, in maneuvering, in marches, in encampments, and particu- larly in more silent and rapid movements and preparations for action. I was told that when the Marquis de Lafayette, with a detachment under his command, was in danger of being cut off on his return to the army, and the Commander- in-chief was determined to support that invaluable officer, the whole army was under arms and ready to march in less than fifteen minutes from the time the signal was given. "Sir, the effect of this discipline was seen in the marches of our army; they passed rivers in less time than the best troops in Europe could. Those excellent French troops, which served with them in the campaign of 1781, were in- ferior to them in this respect. The superiority of our troops, as to rapidity of movement, was seen in the attacks on the two redoubts of Yorktown, in Virginia. "We have been asked, what will oui officers say to this vote in favor of the Baron? I will ventm-e to say, sir, they will be pleased with it. They acknowledge the obli- gations they were imder to that great man; they view his circumstances in the same light as that gallant officer does, who is now the Secretary, and who drew the report on which the bill before you is founded, and which does honor to his heart." Proceedings in Congress 131 By a vote of 28 yeas to 21 nays, the House struck from the bill the section providing that there be allowed to Steuben the pay and other emoluments of major general and inspector general from March 10, 1778 to April 15, 1784; an annuity for life of $2,706 to commence October i, 1777; and thousand acres of land in the Western Territory of the United States. A motion was then made and seconded; to insert, in lieu of the said words so stricken out, the following clause, to wit: That, in order to make full and adequate compensation to Frederick WnLiAM DE Steuben, as well for the sacrifices and eminent services, made and rendered to the United States during the late war, as for the commuta- tion or half pay, promised by the resolutions of Congress, there be paid to the said Frederick Wilham dE Steuben, the sum of seven thousand dollars, in addition to the moneys already received by him, and also an annuity of dollars during life, to commence on the first day of January last, to be paid in quarterly payments, at the Treasury of the United States; which several sums shall be considered in full discharge of all claims and demands whatever of the said Frederick William de Steuben against the United States. And, on the question being put thereupon, It was resolved in the affirmative. And then the said bill, being further amended at the Clerk's table was, together with the amendments ordered to be engrossed, and read the third time on Monday next. MONDAY, MAY 10, 1790 The bill for adjusting and settling the claims of Freder- ick William de Steuben was brought in, engrossed, and read the third time. The gratuity in land being omitted in the bill, Mr. Smith, of South Carolina, supposing the omis- sion to be an error, moved that the bill be recommitted, in order to reinsert the clause. This motion, after a short discussion, was lost. The blank, in the clause stating the annuity, Mr. Smith, of South Carolina, moved should be filled up with 2,700 dollars. After some debate the yeas and nays were taken, and the motion was negatived, as follows: Yeas, 25; nays, 30. 132 Statue of Baron von Steuben A motion was made to fix the annuity at 2,500 dollars. This was negatived — yeas 25, nays 30; As was a motion for 2,400 dollars — yeas 25, nays 30. A motion for 2,000 dollars was agreed to — yeas 31 , nays 24. The bill being completed, on the question, Shall the bill pass ? It was carried in the affirmative — the yeas and nays being as follows: Yeas, 34; nays, 21. SENATE MONDAY, MAY 10, 1790 A message from the House of Representatives informed the Senate, that they have passed a bill for finally adjusting and satisfying the claims of Frederick Wiluam dE Steu- ben ; to which they desire the concurrence of the Senate. The bill for finally adjusting and satisfying the claims of Frederick Wii^liam de Steuben was read the first time. Ordered, That this bill have the second reading tomorrow. TUESDAY, MAY 11, 1790 The Senate resumed the second reading of the bill for finally adjusting and satisfying the claims of Frederick WiLUAM de Steuben. Ordered, That it be committed to Messrs. Maclay, Strong, Izard, Ellsworth, and Johnston. MONDAY, MAY 24, 1790 Mr. Maclay reported from the committee appointed May I ith, on the bill for finally adjusting and satisfying the claims of Frederick Wilwam de Steuben. Ordered, That this report lie for consideration imtil tomorrow. TUESDAY, MAY 25, 1790 The Senate proceeded to consider the report of the com- mittee on the bill for finally adjusting and satisfying the claims of Frederick dE Steuben, which is as follows: In the second line, strike out from the word "order", inclusive, to the end of the bill and insert, "consideration of the eminent services of the Baron DE SteubEN, rendered to Proceedings in Congress 133 the United States during the late war, there be paid to him an annuity of one thousand dollars, to commence on the first day of January last, to be paid in quarterly payments at the Treasury of the United States:" and, after debate, the further consideration thereof was postponed imtil tomorrow. WEDNESDAY, MAY 26, 1790 The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the report of the committee on the bill for finally adjusting and satisfying the claims of Frederick Wii,i,iam de Stexjben. And, on the question to agree to the report of the com- mittee, the yeas and nays being required by one-fifth of the Senators present, were: Yeas, 8; nays, i6. So it passed in the negative. On motion that the opinion of the Senate be taken, whether two thousand dollars, line 7th, shall stand in the bill; the yeas and nays being required by one-fifth of the Senators present; Yeas, 12; nays, 12. The yeas and nays being equal, the Vice President deter- mined the question in the afl&rmative. On the motion that these words, " the sum of seven thou- sand dollars, in addition to the moneys already received by him, and also," be stricken out of the bill; the yeas and nays being required by one-fifth of the Senators present: Yeas, 12; nays, 12. The number being equal, the Vice President determined the question in the negative. Ordered, That tomorrow be assigned for the third reading of this bill. THURSDAY, MAY 27, 1790 The Senate proceeded to the third reading of the bill pro- viding for finally adjusting and satisfying the claims of Frederick Wili^iam de Steuben. On motion to strike out the words "the sum of 7,000 dollars, in addition to moneys already received by him, and also " : It passed in the afiirmative. 134 Statue of Baron von Steuben On motion to insert, line 7th, "five hundred", after the words " two thousand " : The yeas and nays being required by one-fifth of the Senators present: Yeas, 12, nays, 12. The yeas and nays being equal, the Vice President deter- mined the question in the affirmative: whereupon Resolved, That this bill do pass with the amendments. Ordered, That the Secretary acquaint the House of Rep- resentatives herewith, and request their concurrence in the amendments. HOUSE THURSDAY, MAY 27, 1790 A message was received from the Senate, informing the House that they had passed Baron SteubEn's bill with amendments. The said amendments were laid on the table. The Senate propose to increase the annuity from two thou- sand to two thousand five himdred dollars, and to disallow the payment of the seven thousand dollars. FRIDAY, MAY 28, 1790 The House took up the amendments proposed by the Senate to the bill for adjusting and satisfying the claim of Frederick WiIvUAM de Steuben. Mr. Goodhue moved that the consideration thereof be postponed to the next session. This motion was opposed by Messrs. Gerry, Vining, Smith, of South Carolina, Page, Carroll, and Livermore, and being put was negatived. The several amendments were agreed to. That which proposes, after striking out the seven thousand dollars, to add five himdred dollars to the annuity, was, on motion of Mr. Thatcher, determined by yeas and nays. Yeas, 32; nays, 25. SENATE MONDAY, MAY 31, 1790 A message from the House of Representatives informed the Senate, that they have agreed to the amendments of the Senate to the bill for finally adjusting and satisfying the claims of Frederick Wii,uam de Steuben. Proceedings in Congress 135 HOUSE FRIDAY, JUNE 4, 1790 A message was received from the President of the United States, by Mr. Lear, his Secretary, notifying that the Presi- dent approves of the following acts: One entitled "An act for finally adjusting and satisfying the claims of Frederick William de Steuben." SENATE MONDAY, JUNE 7, 1790 A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. Beckley, their Clerk : Mr. President: I am directed to inform the Senate, that the President of the United States did, on the 4th of June, 1790, approve of, and affix his signature to, "An act for finally adjusting and satisfying the claims of Frederick William de Steuben." The act (6 Stats. L., 2) follows: An Act for finally adjusting and satisfying the claims of Frederick WmiAM DE Steuben ' Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That, in order to make full and adequate com- pensation to Frederick William de Steuben, for the sacrifices and eminent services made and rendered to the United States during the late war, there be paid to the said Frederick William dE Steuben, an annuity of two thousand five hundred dollars, during life, to commence on the first day of January last; to be paid in quarterly payments, at the treasury of the United States; which said annuity shall be considered in full discharge of all claims and demands whatever, of the said Frederick William de Steuben against the United States. (Signed) Approved, June 4, 1790. G? Washington, President of the United States. Frederick Augustus Muhlenberg, Speaker of the House of Representatives, John Adams, Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate. 1 This was the first private pension act passed by the Congress of the United States and the third private act of any nature passed by the First Congress. FIFTY-SEVENTH CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION [Extracts from the Congressional Record] HOUSE MAY 22, 1902 A bill (H. R. 14644) for the erection of an equestrian statue to the memory of Baron Steubbn at Washington, D. C, introduced by Mr. Bartholdt, of Missouri, and referred to the Committee on the Library. The bill (H. R. 14644) follows: [H. R. 14644, Fifty-seventh Congress, first session] In the House of Representatives May 22, 1902 Mr. Bartholdt introduced the following bill ; which was referred to the Com- mittee on the Library and ordered to be printed. A BII^I^ For the erection of an equestrian statue to the memory of Baron Stcubqn at Washington, District of Columbia Be it enacted by the Senate and Hoiise of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the sum of $50,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, be, and is hereby, appropriated, out of any money in the Treasiny not otherwise appropriated, to be used for the erection of an equestrian statue to the memory of Baron Steuben at Washington, District of Columbia, and for grading and inclosing with stone ciu-bing and iron fencing the site upon which said equestrian statue shall be erected, which sum shall be expended tmder the direction of the Secretary of War or such officer as he may designate: Provided, That the money hereby appropriated shall be drawn from time to time only as may be required during the progress of the work and upon the requisition of the Secretary of War: And provided further. That a site for said monument shall be selected by the Secretary of War and the two chairmen, respectively, of the Senate and House Committees on the Library, and that no part of the sum hereby appropriated shall be expended imtil a suitable site at Washington, District of Columbia, for the erection of said equestrian statue shall be selected. JUNE 14, 1902 Mr. McCleary, from the Committee on the Library, to which was referred the bill of the House (H. R. 14644) for the erection of an equestrian statue to the memory 136 Proceedings in Congress 137 of Baron Steuben at Washington, D. C, reported the same with amendments, accompanied by a report (No. 2497), which said bill and report were referred to the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union. The report (No. 2497) follows: [House Report No. 2497, Fifty-seventh Congress, first session] Equestrian Status to Memory of Baron Steuben June 14, 1902. — Reported with amendments, committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union, and ordered to be printed Mr. McCleary, from the Committee on the Library, submitted the following report (to accompany H. R. 14644): The Committee on the Library, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 14644) for the erection of an equestrian statue to the memory of Baron Steuben at Washington, D. C, beg leave to submit the following report and recom- mend that said bill do pass with the following amendments: On line 8, page i, strike out the words, "and iron fencing," and on line i, page 2, after the word "site," insert the words "and design." A century and a quarter have passed since Frederick Wh,uam Augustus Henry Ferdinand von Steuben, or Baron Steuben, as he is more com- monly called, came to America to offer his services to the young Republic struggling for existence, and yet the Nation that he served so well has done practically nothing to indicate that it appreciates those services. Even in our histories he has not been accorded the position to which he is entitled. Indeed, there appears to be but one extended biography of Steuben avail- able — ^that of Frederick Kapp, from which the matter for this report has been mainly obtained. This failure of history to give SteubEN due consideration has been thus explained by Representative Bartholdt: "There is reason, perhaps, for the failure of historians to accord a fitting position to Steuben in the record of the struggle of the American Colonies for independence, however regrettable the fact may be to the impartial student of the man's worth and work. Readers of history are attracted to the part played by men who lead battalions in stirring charges, to the heroes in action on the battle fields, just as the patrons of a theater applaud the star, unmindful, if not ignorant, of the importance of the work of the stage manager who has furnished the settings for the play, arranged the scenic effects, and made the actor's triumph possible. "Steuben was the stage manager, as it were, in the presentation of the Revolutionary War drama, and his work has been forgotten in the applause and admiration of the incomparable genius of Washington and the dash and daring of other leaders in the field whose efforts resulted in brilliant feats of arms and the achievement of American independence. Baron Steuben worked behind the scenes. He took over the ragged tatterdemalions of Washington at Valley Forge and, in the face of almost insuperable obstacles, worked them into an army that did yeoman service on so many fields later. 1 38 Statue of Baron von Steuben It was Stbuben who took in charge the raw material, the undisciplined recruits, and developed an army which for efficiency has challenged the admiration of the world." Kapp thus epitomizes the baron's life: "Sprung from an old, noble, and military family of Prussia, as a child he accompanied his father in his campaign in the Crimea and during his sojourn in Russia. As a boy he was present at the siege of Prague, and as a youth he entered the service of Frederick the Great, the greatest commander of the age, and fought with distinction in the bloodiest engagements of the Seven Years' War. Taken prisoner by the Russians, he spent some time at the Court of St. Petersburg, and, when set at liberty by Peter III, he remained tmtil the end of the war attached to the personal staff of the great King. The calm which succeeded the stormy events of his youth was not destined to be everlasting. As soon as prospects of fame and active exertions were opened up to him at Versailles he threw up his agreeable but inactive appointment at home and hastened to America to devote his military knowledge and experience to the conquest of American liberty, and to fight tmder George Washington for the independence of the United States. His efforts were crowned with success; and after the termination of the war Steuben finally retired into private life to end a career devoted to the public good, in hon- orable but unassuming poverty, in a rough log house in the backwoods." The career of Baron Steuben is one of absorbing interest. Prague and Kunersdorf, St. Petersburg and Berlin, Versailles and Phila- delphia, Ybrktown and New York are the landmarks of this existence. Steuben was bom November 15, 1730, at Magdeburg, a large Prussian fortress on the Elbe. At that time his father was captain in the Prussian engineers, and when he was called to service in the Crimea and Cronstadt the son accompanied him. In 1740 he returned with his father to Prussia. In 1744, when scarcely 14 years of age, during the War of the Austrian Suc- cession, he was present at the protracted and sanguinary siege of Prague. Thus from his earliest years Steuben was familiar with soldiers and things pertaining to war. In the Seven Years' War he so greatly distinguished himself as to attract the attention and approval of King Frederick the Great, who appointed Steuben as aid-de-camp on his personal staff. He was one of six talented young officers whom the King personally instructed and initiated into the most abstruse branches of the military art. The distinc- tion of being thus chosen is convincing proof of Steuben's merit and promise. With Frederick the Great neither high birth nor family influence had any weight in the selection of his military favorites; talent and fitness were the only recommendation to his favor. In 1764, having resigned from the service of Prussia, Steuben accepted the office of grand marshal of the court of the Prince of Hohenzollem- Hechingen, the honorable and responsible duties of which he discharged with great credit for some 10 years. For some years the dignified tranquillity of this court life furnished agreeable repose for him, tired as he was of the bivouac and the camp. But it could not satisfy his ardent and impetuous temperament or induce him to renounce the active duties from which for a season he had withdrawn. So he began to look aroimd for a fitting oppor- tunity to reenter active military service. Proceedings in Congress 139 The Prussian officers of that time were so fully convinced of their impor- tance and superiority over all other troops that they always expected to receive higher rank than that which they had under the King, and there- fore very often rejected propositions made to them by foreign powers who were anxious to profit by their knowledge and experience, but were unwilling to excite jealousy among their own officers by placing foreigners over their heads. Fortunately for the United States, owing to these conditions, StbubEN did not find it easy, notwithstanding his excellent reputation, to secure a position that he felt to be worthy of him and his training. In 1777 was opened up to him, in a manner wholly unexpected, the opportunity which was to crown his life. On his way to England to visit some friends, he went to Paris. Arriving there on May 2, he sought an interview with Count de St. Germain, an old friend of his, whom the King of France had recently appointed minister of war. The count sent him word that he would rather not see him at Versailles, but that he would be "glad to meet him in three days at the Paris Arsenal, where he intended to have a particular conversation with him, and that he would send an officer to conduct him to the place of rendezvous." At the time designated, Count de St. Germain arrived in Paris, sent for Steuben, and received him in his cabinet. The count said that he had intended to write to the baron, "to submit a project which he thought would prove very advantageous, and for the execution of which he thought the baron the proper person. " Then, taking a map and pointing to America, he said, "Here is your field of battle. Here is a Republic which you must serve. You are the very man which she needs at this moment. If you succeed, your fortune is made, and you will acquire more glory than you could hope for in Europe in a great many years to come." He then entered into a minute description of the situation of the United States, adding that "it would be a meritorious office to assist in building up the grand edifice of that rising Republic." The count showed to Steuben the resom-ces which the Americans had, and indicated the support which they might expect indirectly from France and Spain, even intimating the possibility later of an open alliance between those countries and the United States. Then, with great discernment and perfect frankness, he turned to the other side of the picture and detailed to Steuben the many disadvantages tmder which the United States labored, showing that the American Army had no regular formation; that, their enlistments being for very short periods, their Army had no order or method of keeping the corps together; that the loss of the men not only continually destroyed the formation of the corps, but caused the most terrible destruction of horses, arms, clothing, and every species of camp equipage; that the consumption of these articles was enormous; that they were in want of some officer of experience to be charged with the details, who was not only acquainted with the regular formation of an army, but who could trace out for them a system of economy for the disbursements of the Army, and, by a rigid inspection, prevent those abuses which might otherwise tend to the destruction of the coimtry. 140 Statue of Baron von Steuben He added that "if some such order were not established, the resources of the United States must very soon be exhausted, nor would it be in the power of their friends in Eiuope to supply so enormous an expense; that among all the foreign officers who had gone to America there was not one who possessed sufficient information on these points, and that the com- mander in chief and Congress would be extremely happy to meet with an officer of experience to assist in establishing order, which was so indispen- sably necessary." St. Germain had been in the service of the King of Denmark. At the close of the Seven Years' War, while still in the Danish service, he had met Steuben and had formed a high opinion of the sound judgment and military ability of King Frederick's aid-def to the American people. It seems only proper that Steuben's view of the situation should be given in his own words. The following statements are taken from a letter written by him from Valley Forge: " The situation of affairs in general, and of our army at Valley Forge in par- ticular, is too well known to need a description. My determination must have been very firm that I did not abandon my design when I saw the troops. Proceedings in Congress 143 Matters had to be remedied, but where to commence was the great diflSculty. In the first place I had to inform myself relative to the military administration . * * * * * "The general asked me to give him some statements concerning the ar- rangements of the departments and their various branches in the European armies. I gave them to him, and, detailing therein the duties of each depart- ment and of its different branches, dilated upon the functions of the quarter- masters (mar^chaux g&i6raux de logis) in particular, in which branch I had served myself for a long time in the Seven Years' War. But the English system, bad as it is, had already taken root. Each company and quarter- master had a commission of so much per cent on all the money expended. It was natural, therefore, that expense was not spared — ^that wants were discovered where there were none; and it was also natural that the dearest articles were those that suited the commissioners best. Hence the depre- ciation of our currency; hence the expense of so many millions. "I pointed out to General Washington and several Members of Congress the advantages of the contract system. I even drew up a memorandum on the subject, which Colonel Laurens translated into English, showing the way in which things were contracted for in the Prussian and French armies. But whether it was that they thought such a system impracticable in this country, or whether they were unable to check the torrent of expense, things remained as they were. ***** "I directed my attention to the condition of the troops, and I found an ample field, where disorder and confusion were supreme. As this became my principal object, I must enter into some particular details. "The effective strength of the Army was divided into divisions, com- manded by major generals; into brigades, commanded by brigadier generals; and into regiments, commanded by colonels. The number of men in a regiment was fixed by Congress, as well as in a company — so many infantry, cavalry, and artillery. But the eternal ebb and flow of men engaged for three, six, and nine months, who went and came every day, rendered it impossible to have either a regiment or a company complete ; and the words company, regiment, brigade, and division were so vague that they did not convey any idea upon which to form a calculation, either of a particular corps or of the Army in general. They were so unequal in their number that it would have been impossible to execute any maneuvers. Sometimes a regiment was stronger than a brigade. I have seen a regiment consisting of thirty men and a company of one corporal. Nothing was so difficult, and often so impossible, as to get a correct list of the state or a return of any company, regiment, or corps. As in the English service, there was a muster master general, with a number of assistants. It was the duty of this ofScer to ascer- tain and report every month the effective state of the Army, for the payment of the men and officers. This operation took place as follows: Each captain made a roll of his company, whether absent or present, after which he made oath before a superior officer that this return was correct, 'to the best of his knowledge and belief.' The muster master coimted the men present, and the absent were marked by him for their pay upon the oath of the captain. 144 Stattie of Baron von Steuben I am very far from supposing that an officer would voluntarily commit a fraud, but let us examine the state of the companies, and we shall see the correctness of such returns. "The company had 12 men present; absent, t man as valet to the com- missary, 200 miles distant from the army for eighteen months; i mam, valet to a quartermaster attached to the army of the north, for twelve months; 4 in different hospitals for so many months; 2 as drivers of carriages; and so many more as bakers, blacksmiths, carpenters, even as coal porters, for years together, although the greater number were only engaged for nine months at the outset. But a man once on the roll of a company remuined there ever- lastingly as forming part of the effective strength, except in case of death or desertion under the very eyes of the captain. "According to these rolls the strength of the Army for pay and provisions was calculated. The regimental returns furnished to the adjutant-general every week, for the information of the general in chief, as to the strength of the Army, were not much more exact. / am sure that at that time a general would have thought himself lucky to find a third of the men ready for action whom he found on paper. "The soldiers were scattered about in every direction. The Army was looked upon as a nursery for servants, and everyone deemed it his right to have a. valet. Several thousand soldiers were employed in this way. We had more commissaries and quartermasters at that time than all the armies of Europe together. The most modest had only one servant, but others had two and even three. If the captains and colonels could give no account of their men, they could give still less an account of their arms, accouter- ments, clothing, ammunition, camp equipage, etc. Nobody kept an account but the commissaries, who furnished all the articles. A company which consisted, in May, of 50 men, was armed, clothed, and equipped in June. It then consisted of 30 men. In July it received 30 recruits, who were to be clothed, armed, and equipped; and not only the clothes but the arms were carried off by those who had completed their time of service. "Gen. Knox assured me that previous to the establishment of my depart- ment there never was a campaign in which the military magazines did not furnish from 5,000 to 8,000 muskets to replace those which were lost in the way I have described above. The loss of bayonets was still greater. The American soldier, never having used this arm, had no faith in it, and never used it but to roast his beefsteak and, indeed, often left it at home. This is not astonishing when it is considered that the majority of the States engaged their soldiers for from six to nine months. Each man who went away took his musket with him, and his successor received another from the public store. No captain kept a book. Accounts were never furnished nor required. As our Army is, thank God, little subject to desertion, I venture to say that during an entire campaign there have not been 20 muskets lost since my system came into force. It was the same with the pouches and other ac- couterments, and I do not believe that I exaggerate when I state that my arrange- ments have saved the United States at least 800,000 French livres a year. * * » * » "The arms at Valley Forge were in a horrible condition, covered with rust, half of them without bayonets, many from which a single shot could Proceedings in Congress 145 not be fired. The pouches were quite as bad as the arms. A great many of the men had tin boxes instead of pouches, others had cow horns, aad muskets, carbines, fowling pieces, and rifles were to be seen in the same company. "It is also necessary to remark that the changing of men, the reductions, and continual incorporations deprived the corps and regiments of all con- sistence. There was another evil still more subversive of order in an army — the captains and colonels did not consider their companies and regiments as corps confided to them by the United States for the care of the men as well as the preservation of order and discipline. The greater part of the cap- tains had no roll of their companies, and had no idea how many men they had under their orders. When I asked a colonel the strength of his regiment, the usual reply was, 'Something between two and three hundred men.' The colonels, and often the captains, granted leave of absence as they thought proper, and not only that, but permissions to retire from the service. The officers were not accustomed to remain with the troops when the Army was in camp; they lived in houses, often several miles distant. In winter quarters they nearly all went home, and there were often not more than foiu: officers with a regiment. In the campaign of 1779 I found a Massachusetts regiment commanded by a lieutenant. The idea they had of their duty was that the officers had only to motmt guard and put themselves at the head of their regiment or company when they were going into action. "The internal administration of a regiment and a company was a thing completely unknown. The quartermaster received arms, ammunition, and camp equipage for an entire brigade. The clothing and provisions were distributed in the same way, by brigades. A captain who did not know the number of men in his company could not know the number of the rations and other articles necessary for it. There were absolutely no regulations for the service of the camp and of the guards. Each colonel encamped his regiment according to his fancy. There were guards and pickets, and sometimes too many; but the officers did not know their duty, and in many instances did not understand the object of the guard. An infinity of internal guards for the commissaries of forage and provisions and for the quartermaster weakened the strength of the Army, the more so because these guards were never relieved and remained from one year to another. Their arms were lost, and they were all the servants of the com- missary, who often granted them leave not only for six months, but without limitation. It would be an endless task to enumerate the abuses which nearly ruined the Army. The above is a general view of the situation of the American Army as I found it at Valley Forge in the month of February, 1778." Such was his report of the conditions as he found them. What did he do ? Let him tell: "Gen. Washington proposed to me to sketch out a plan for establishing an inspection in order to introduce a system and uniformity into all these matters. I sketched a variety of different plans, but it was exceedingly difficult to find an arrangement likely to succeed so as not to disgust the officers belonging to so many different States and to form a plan in con- 84647°— 14 10 146 Statue of Baron von Steuben formity with the spirit of the Nation, and with the prejudices, however well or ill founded they might be, against foreigners. I was often obliged to abandon ideas I had formed; I was in want of information and advice, and I was fortunate enough to find a few officers of merit, who gave me every satis- faction. They were Gen. Greene, Col. Laurens, and Col. Hamilton. Hav- ing drawn out my last plan, I communicated it to these three officers and made the alterations they deemed advisable before I presented it to the commander in chief. Time was precious, and I worked day and night. I finally proposed that an inspector general ought to be appointed at once, who should establish a uniform system for forming the troops, for exercising and maneuvering them, for their duties in camp and on the march, and for the duties of guards, pickets, and sentries. He should also define and point out the duties of every oflBcer, from the colonel to the corporal; the manner in which returns or lists of the men, arms, accouterments, clothing, and camp equipage should be made, and appoint a uniform, method of book- keeping, according to which the books of the regiments, of companies, as well as those of the adjutant, paymaster, quartermaster, and clothing master of each regiment, should be kept; that this inspector should review the troops every month, exercise and maneuver them, examine the retiuns and books, and make his written return to the commander in chief and to the board of war, etc.; that a colonel from each division should be chosen by the inspec- tor general, whose duty it shall be to see that the ordinances and arrange- ments which the inspector might think proper to establish, with the consent of the commander in chief, be duly executed and obeyed." Thus did Baron Steuben bring order out of chaos in the commissariat and quartermaster's departments. He also turned his great talents and ability to making soldiers out of the recruits. Again it will be well to let him tell his own story: "I commenced operations by drafting 120 men from the line, whom I formed into a guard for the general in chief. I made this guard my military school. / drilled them myself twice a day, and to remove that English prej- udice which some officers entertained, namely, that to drill a recruit was a sergeant's duty and beneath the station of an officer, I often took the mus- ket myself to show the men the manual exercise which I wished to introduce. All my inspectors were present at each drill. We marched together, wheeled, etc., and in a fortnight my company knew perfectly how to bear arms, had a military air, knew how to march, to form in column, deploy, and execute some little maneuvers with excellent precision. * * * "I paraded them in presence of all the officers of the Army, and gave them an opporttmity of exhibiting all they knew. They formed in column, deployed, attacked with the bayonet, changed front, etc. It afforded a new and agreeable sight for the young officers and soldiers. Having gained my point I dispersed my apostles, the inspectors, and my new doctrine was eagerly embraced. I lost no time in extending my operations on a large scale. I applied my system to battalions, afterwards to brigades, and in less than three weeks I executed maneuvers with an entire division in pres- ence of the commander in chief." Proceedings in Congress 147 In a letter to Gen. John Sullivan, dated at Valley Forge, April 8, 1778, A. Scammel thus comments on the work of Baron StBubEN and its influence : "Baron Steuben sets us a truly noble example. He has undertaken the discipline of the Army and shows himself to be a perfect master of it, not only in the grand maneuvers, but in the most minute details. To see a gentleman dignified with a lieutenant general's commission from the great Prussian monarch condescend with a grace peculiar to himself to take under his direction a squad of 10 or 12 men in the capacity of drill sergeant, com- mands the admiration of both oflBcers and men, and causes them to improve exceedingly fast tmder his instructions." Speaking of his work at this time, William North, who was his aid-de- camp and therefore familiar with the subject, says in his biographical sketch of Steuben: "Certainly it was a brave attempt. Without understanding a word of the English language, to think of bringing men, bom free and joined together to preserve their freedom, into strict subjection; to obey without a word, a look, the mandates of a master — that master once their equal, or, possibly, beneath them. * * * it was a brave attempt, which nothing but virtue or high-raised hopes of glory could have supported. * * * "From the commencement of instruction, no time, no pains, no fatigue were thought too great in pursuit of this great object. Through the whole of each campaign, when troops were to maneuver, and that was almost every day, the baron rose at 3 o'clock. While his servant dressed his hair, he smoked a single pipe and drank one cup of coffee; was on horseback at sun- rise, and, with or without his suite, galloped to the parade. There was no waiting for a tardy aid-de-camp, and those who followed wished they had not slept. Nor was there need of chiding; when duty was neglected or military etiquette infringed, the baron's look was quite sufficient." On the 30th of April, 1778, about six weeks after Steuben had com- menced his active duties, Washington made the following report to Con- gress: "The extensive ill consequences arising from a want of uniformity in discipline and maneuvers throughout the "Army have long occasioned me to wish for the establishment of a well-organizpd inspectorship, and the con- currence of Congress in the same views has induced me to set on foot a tem- porary institution, which, from the success which has hitherto attended it, gives me the most flattering expectations. * * * "Baron Steuben's length of service in the first military school of Eu- rope, and his former rank, pointed him out as a person peculiarly qualified to be at the head of this department. This appeared the least exception- able way of introducing him into the Army, and the one that would give him the most ready opportunity of displaying his talent. I therefore pro- posed to him to undertake the office of Inspector General, which he agreed to do with the greatest cheerfulness, and has performed the duties of it with a zeal and intelligence equal to our wishes. * * » "I should do injustice if I were to be longer silent with regard to the merits of Baron SteubEN. His knowledge of his profession, added to the 148 Statue of Baron von Steuben zeal which he has displayed since he began upon the functions of his ofiBce, leads me to consider him an acquisition to the service, and to recommend him to the attention of Congress." The "recommendation" of Washington was that Steuben be made Inspector General of the American Army with the rank of major general. The recommendation of Washington was followed by Congress, and by act of May s, 1778, STEtiBBN was created a major general and assigned to the duties of Inspector General of the Army. There was opposition to Steuben and his plans from many of the other general officers. They had not heretofore been subjected to instruction in the discipline and management of their own troops. Steuben himself says that he was severe and exacting. He felt it his duty to be so. Gradu- ally, however, this opposition died away, and the spirit of the German soldier took possession of officers and men alike, and the American Army was worked into shape to make its later achievements possible. As Inspector General, Steuben composed a book of regulations which was adopted and upon which the present Regulations of the American Army are based. Later, upon his urgent request, he was given a command, and served with credit. In 1779-80 he served in the South and achieved some distinction in the field. He was appointed to command in Virginia and remained there most of the time until June, 1781. It was there that he became involved over the loss of the magazines at Point of Fork, and was vindicated only after along investigation. After the Battle of Yorktown he was one of five generals whom Washington mentioned by name in the orders of the day for specially valuable services in the battle. The last act of Gen. Washington before resigning his commission as Com- mander in Chief of the American Army was to write an appreciative lettei to Baron StbubEN, as follows: "Annapous, December 23, 1783. "My Dear Baron: Although I have taken frequent opportunities, both in public and in private, of acknowledging your great zeal, atteiftion, and abilities in performing the functions of your office, yet I wish to make use of this last moment of my public life to signify in the strongest terms my entire approbation of yova conduct, and to express my sense of the obliga- tions the public is under to you for yo-ai faithful and meritorious services. ' ' I beg you will be convinced, my dear sir, that I should rejoice if it could ever be in my power to serve you more especially than by expressions of regard and affection; but, in the meantime, I am persuaded you will not be displeased with this farewell token of my sincere friendship and esteem for you. ' ' This is the last letter I shall write while I continue in the service of my country. The hour of my resignation is fixed at 12 to-day, after which I shall become a private citizen, on the banks of the Potomac, where I shall be glad to embrace you and testify the great esteem and consideration with which I am, my dear baron, etc." Proceedings in Congress 149 On March 24, 1784, SteubEN gave in his resignation, which Congress ac- cepted on April 15, with the following resolution: "Resolved, That the thanks of the United States, in Congress assembled, be given to Baron SteubEN for the great zeal and abilities he has discovered in the discharge of the several duties of his ofl5ce; that a gold-hilted sword be presented to him as a mark of the high sense Congress entertain of his character and services, and that the superintendent of finance take order for procuring the same." Then it required seven years' active effort for the baron to secure a settle- ment for his services, which settlement he obtained only after it had been plainly shown that he had been reduced to the extremity of either starving here or begging in Europe. The compensation, when it was finally made, was so miserly in amount that the debts of StEubEn had absorbed all he received, and the man who had done so much to make the victory of the American forces possible was compelled to retire to a little farm given him by the State of New York. Here he built a log house of five rooms, and lived almost in poverty until his death in December, 1794. The historian, George Bancroft, says of StEuben: "The memory of SteubEN has many claims upon the present generation. To the cause of our country in the times of its distress he, at the sacrifice of a secure career, devoted the experience and skill which had been the fruit of long years of service under the greatest master of the art of war of that day. He rendered the inestimable benefit of introducing a better rule into the discipline of the American Army and stricter accoimtability in the distribution of military stores. He served tmder our flag with implicit fidelity, with indefatigable industry, and a courage that shrunk from no danger. His presence was important both in the camp and on the field of battle, from the huts of Valley Forge to Yorktown, and he remained with us till his death." As Baron SteubEn rendered such great services to omi Nation and received for them such small reward, the committee feels confident that Congress and the country wUl esteem it a privilege at this late day to rear to him this monument of its gratitude. JULY 1, 1902 Mr. Bkeck. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent for the present consideration of the bill H. R. 16. The bill was read, as follows: A bill to provide for the erection of a bronze equestrian statue to the mem- ory of the late Brig. Gen. Count Casimir Pulaski at Washington, D. C. Mr. SuivZER. Mr. Speaker, I wish to be heard on this matter. I desire to say that I am very much in favor of the passage of this bill to erect in the city of Washmgton an equestrian statue to the memory of Casimir Pulaski, but I understood that the gentleman from Missoturi [Mr. Bar- 150 Statiie of Baron von Steuben tholdt] intended to offer another bill as an amendment to this bill to build a similar statue to the memory of Baron Steuben. Both of these bills have been unanimously reported by the Committee on the Library. I think they ought to go together. It will be fitting and proper. Steuben and Pulaski were great heroes and rendered invaluable service to the Ameri- can cause during the Revolutionary War. If the gentle- man from Missouri [Mr. Bai-tholdt] does not offer the amend- ment I shall, and I hope the gentleman from Indiana [Mr. Brick] will accept it. If he does, I believe they will pass together unanimously. I am as much in favor of one as I am of the other. The merits of each are about the same. They fought for the same cause, under similar circum- stances, and their monuments should go up together at the same time. Now, Mr. Speaker, I want to say a few words, and pay my humble tribute to the memory of both of these dis- tinguished heroes of our Revolutionary struggle. It is fitting that this should be done. They both deserve to have statues in this city. ***** We have erected in Jackson Park, fronting the White House, a statue to Gen. Lafayette. That statue occupies a prominent comer. On the other comer we have just unveiled a magnificent statue to Gen. Rochambeau, and the two remaining comers of that park should be graced with the statues of Gen. Pulaski and Gen. Steuben. I hope this course will be followed. It would be, it seems to me, entirely proper and exceedingly consistent. ***** Now, Mr. Speaker, I want to say a few words regarding Gen. Steuben and the bill to erect a statue to his mem- ory. A century and a quarter have passed since Baron Steuben, as he is more frequently called, came to America and offered his services to the stmggling Colonists. Proceedings in Congress 151 He was duly commissioned a general in the Revolution- ary Army and rendered incalculable service during that protracted and sanguinary struggle. American history does not give him the place he is entitled to and should occupy. Our Government has done practically nothing to testify its appreciation of the great work he performed in the days that tried men's souls. Perhaps this is because he did not assume the command- ing position of other more dashing Revolutionary generals. Steuben was a soldier. He drilled and disciplined the ragged Army of the Colonists. He worked behind the scenes, but the work he did was of the utmost importance and made it possible for the Continental Army to cope with the disciplined and experienced soldiers of England and win American independence. The career of Gen. Steuben is a most interesting and absorbing history of an exciting life. He was bom No- vember 15, 1730, at Magdeburg, a large Prussian fortress on the Elbe. At that time his father was captain in the Prussian engineers, and when he was called to service in the Crimea the son accompanied him. In 1740 he re- turned with his father to Prussia. In 1744, when scarcely 14 years of age, during the War of the Austrian Succession, he was present at the siege of Prague. Thus from his earUest years Steuben was familiar with soldiers and things pertaining to war. In the Seven Years' War so greatly did he distinguish himself that he attracted the attention of Frederick the Great, who appointed Steuben aid-de-camp' on his per- sonal staff. He was one of six talented yotmg officers whom the King personally instructed and initiated into the most abstruse branches of military art. The distinc- tion of being thus chosen is convincing proof of Steuben's merit and promise. With Frederick the Great neither high birth nor family influence had any weight in the selection of his military favorites; talent and fitness were the only recommendation to favor. 152 Statue of Baron von Steuben In 1764, having resigned from the service of Prussia, Steuben accepted the office of grand marshal of the court of the Prince of HohenzoUem-Hechingen, the honorable and responsible duties of which he discharged with great credit for some 10 years. For some years the dignified tranquillity of court Hfe furnished agreeable repose for him, tired as he was of the bivouac and the camp. But it could not satisfy his ardent and impetuous temperament or induce him to renoimce the active duties from which for a season he had withdrawn. So he began to look arotmd for a fitting opportunity to reenter active military service. He left Europe, where he had won hard-earned distinc- tion and fame — where if he was not opulent he had at least a sufficient competence — to serve a coimtry engaged in an obstinate, exhausting, and hitherto unsuccessful war, where his prospects of professional advancement were by no means assured, and which offered no inducements of a pecuniary or material nature. Confident in himself, urged by high and generous motives, he determined to offer his sword to a people struggling for their rights and liberties. He made no conditions. He bargained for no reward. Arriving at Portsmouth, N. H., on the ist day of Decem- ber, 1777, Steuben, on December 6, wrote to the Con- tinental Congress a letter which is worthy of being quoted here in its entirety, as illustrating the spirit of the man. It was as follows: Honorable Gentlemen: The honor of serving a nation engaged in de- fending its rights and liberties was the motive that brought me to this con- tinent. I ask neither riches nor titles. I am come here from the remotest end of Germany, at my own expense, and have given up honorable and lucra- tive rank. I have made no condition with your deputies in France, nor shall I make any with you. My only ambition is to serve you as a volim- teer, to deserve the confidence of your General in Chief, and to follow him in all his operations as I have done during seven campaigns with the King of Prussia. Two and twenty years spent in such a school seems to give me a right of thinking myself among the number of experienced officers, and if I am pos- sessed of tlie acquirements in the art of war they will be much more prized by me if I can employ them in the service of a Republic such as I hope soon to Proceedings in Congress 153 see America. I should willingly purchase at the expense of my blood the honor of having my name enrolled among those of the defenders of your lib- erty. Your gracious acceptance will be sufficient for me, and I ask no other favor than to be received among your officers. I venture to hope that you will grant this my request, and that you will be so good as to send me your orders to Boston, where I shall await them and take suitable measures in accordance. In a letter to Washington, of the same date, he said: Sir: The inclosed copy pf a letter, the original of which I shall have the honor to present to Your Excellency, will inform you of the motives that brought me over to this land. I shall only add to it that the object of my greatest ambition is to render the country all the service in my power, and to deserve the title of a citizen of America by fighting for the cause of your liberty. If the distinguished ranks in which I have served in Europe should be an obstacle, I had rather serve under Your Excellency as a volunteer than to be aa object of discontent to such deserving officers as have already distinguished themselves among you. « Such being the sentiments I have always professed, I dare hope that the respectable Congress of the United States of America will accept my serv- ices. I could say, moreover, were it not for the fear of offending your mod- esty, that Your Excellency is the only person luider whom, after having served the King of Prussia, I couli wish to follow a profession to the study of which I have wholly devoted myself. I intend to go to Boston in a few days, where I shall present my letters to Mr. Hancock, Member of Congress, and there I shall await Yotur Excellency's orders. At Boston Steuben was entertained by John Hancock, who had just retired from the presidency of the Conti- nental Congress, and here, after waiting five weeks, he received Washington's answer to his letter. It advised him to report at once to Congress, then sitting at York, Pa., since it belonged exclusively to that body to enter into negotiations with him. The fame of SteubEn had preceded him to York and he was cordially received by Congress. A committee of three members was appointed to confer with him and ascertain the conditions on which he was willing to serve the United States, and whether he had made any arrangements with the American deputies in France. He said that he had made no agreement with them, nor was it his intention to accept any rank or pay; that he wished to join the Army as a volunteer, and to render such services as the Commander in Chief should think him capable 154 Statue of Baron von Steuben of. The Continental Congress, through its president, Mr. Laurens, accepted his generous proposition and directed him to report to Gen. "Washington at Valley Forge. Here Steuben began a work the value of which can scarcely be overestimated. He made the patriotic army a disciplined and effective force — the drilled corps that ultimately won the war for freedom. He worked incessantly to do this tmder the greatest difficulties and most adverse circtunstances, but he succeeded, and the credit for it is all his own. Ameri- can history some day will do him full justice and give him a high place in our temple of fame. On the 30th of April, 1778, about six weeks after Steuben had commenced Jiis active duties, Washington made the following report to Congress: The extensive ill consequences arising from a want of uniformity in dis- cipline and maneuvers throughout the Army have long occasioned me to wish for the establishment of a well-ormnized inspectorship, and the con- currence of Congress in the same views has induced me to set on foot a tem- porary institution, which, from the success which has hitherto attended it, gives me the most flattering expectations. Baron Steuben's length of service in the first military school of Etu-ope and his former rank pointed him out as a person peculiarly qualified to be at the head of this department. This appeared the least exceptionable way of introducing him into the Army, and the one that would give him the most ready opportunity of displaying his talent. I therefore proposed to him to undertake the office of Inspector General, which he agreed to do with the greatest cheerfulness, and has performed the duties of it with a zeal and intelligence equal to our wishes. I should do injustice if I were to be longer silent with regard to the merits of Baron Steuben. His knowledge of his profession, added to the zeal which he has displayed since he began upon the functions of his office, leads me to consider him an acquisition to the service, and to recommend him to the attention of Congress. The " recommendation " of Washington was that Stexjeen be made Inspector General of the American Army with the rank of major general. The recommendation of Washington was followed by Congress, and by act of May 5, 1778, Steuben was created a major general and assigned to the duties of Inspector General of the Army. Proceedings in Congress 155 Mr. Speaker, such in brief is the story of Gen. Steuben, one of the bravest and most invaluable officers of the Continental Army. He served throughout the Revolu- tionary War, and was of inestimable service to Washing- ton, who never failed to testify to his abilities and the great work he had done in the cause of American inde- pendence. When peace came and the United States had taken her place among the nations of the world, this battle- scarred veteran — grand old Gen. Steuben— who had been a tower of strength to George Washington from Valley Forge to Yorktown, quietly resigned his commission in the Army of the United States and retired to a log hut in the backwoods of the State of New York — away from the crowded marts of trade and the peopled thorough- fares of towns and cities — ^to live and die in peace. He rendered great service to this country in its most trying hour, in the darkest days of its struggle for inde- pendence, and in his name, in the name of all that he did and accomplished, in the name of the Continental Congress, in the name of honor and gratitude, I appeal to every Member of this House to vote for this bill to erect to his memory a fitting statue to commemorate his heroic deeds and to perpetuate forever his imperishable glory. [Applause.] Mr. Bartholdt. Mr. Speaker, I should like to ask unan- imous consent for the purpose of making a statement. The Speaker. The first thing is the mianimous con- sent to the request of the gentleman from Indiana. Is there objection? [After a pause.] The Chair hears none. Now, if there is no objection, the gentleman from Mis- souri can make a statement. There was no objection. Mr. BarthoIvDT. A few weeks ago, Mr. Speaker, the chairman of the Committee on the Library informed me that he had the consent of the Speaker to ask for the con- sideration of two bills, one providing for a monument to 156 Stattie of Baron von Steuben Gen. Pulaski and the other a monument to Gen. Steuben. I natiurally supposed that the chairman of the committee would, when his time came, be recognized for the purpose, and that both bills would be passed. On this accoimt I did not ask in time for my name to be put on the list. The Speaker. The Chair will state that the gentleman is taking up time now which would enable the House to pass the bill. The Chair will also say that the Chair makes no promise to gentlemen until they are notified, and this matter is on the Speaker's list, and if the gentleman will allow the business to go on, we can reach it. Mr. Bartholdt. Mr. Speaker, I want to say that the Speaker has acted with entire fairness in this matter. I only came here yesterday, and consequently there is now an absolute certainty that my request for recognition for the monument to Gen. Steuben will not be reached in this session. And yet I ask both sides of the House whether it would not be fair that both monuments should be ordered at this time. They were both great Revolu- tionary heroes, and France has been recognized in statues for Lafayette and Rochambeau, and the Poles are to be recognized in a monument for Pulaski, and I ask that these two bills be passed together. I ask unanimous con- sent, Mr. Speaker, that the bill providing for a monu- ment for Gen. Steuben be added to this pending bill as an amendment. The Speaker. The gentleman from Missouri asks tman- imous consent that the bill pending in the House making provision for a statue of Baron Steuben be added as an amendment to the bill now before the House. Is there objection? [After a pause.] The Chair hears none. The Clerk will report the amendment. The Clerk read as follows: Add to the pending bill the following: "That the sum of $50,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, be, and is hereby, appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, to be used for the erection of an equestrian statue to the mem- ory of Baron Steuben at Washington, District of Columbia, and for grading Proceedings in Congress i57 and inclosing with, stone curbing the site upon which said equestrian statue shall be erected, which sum shall be expended under the direction of the Secretary of War or such ofScer as he may designate: Provided, That the money hereby appropriated shall be drawn from time to time only as may be required, during the progress of the work and upon the requisition of the Secretary of War: And provided further, That a site and design for said monument shall be selected by the Secretary of War and the two chairmen, respectively, of the Senate and House Committees on the Library, and that no part of the sum hereby appropriated shall be expended until a suitable site at Washington, District of Columbia, for the erection of said equestrian statue shall be selected. " The Speaker. The proposed amendments have been adopted by unanimous consent of the House. Mr. Palmer. Mr. Speaker, we have at the Nation's Capital a statue of the gallant Frenchman, Lafayette, who volunteered and fought for independence, and lived. We have a statue of the brave Rochambeau, who volun- teered, fought for independence, and lived. We are to have, I hope, a statue of the accomplished German, Gen. Steuben, who organized and disciplined the ragged troops of Gen. Washington dtuing that fateful winter at Valley Forge. We have been presented by the Eniperor of Germany with a statue of Frederick the Great, which will have a place in the Nation's Capital as a perpetual memorial of his sympathy for the Colonies in their great struggle for Uberty, and as an evidence of the harmony that still exists between the great German Empire and the great Republic. Why, then, should not the United States erect a statue to Gen. Pulaski, a gallant Pole, who volunteered, fought, bled, and died in our battle for hberty? The Continental Congress recognized his merit and voted him a monument. More than a century' has rolled away and the obligation is unfulfilled. His coimtry has been dismembered and Poland as a nation has been obliterated from the map of the world. It was a crime tmexampled in the history of nations, but the Poles and Lithuanians still live, and they have naturally 158 Statue of Baron Don Steuben turned, millions of them, to the United States as the only country where their aspirations for freedom can be satis- fied. They came to stay, to cast in their lot with us, and to help build up the great Republic. They acquire land, build homes, educate their children, organize so- cieties, build churches, and in every way adapt them- selves to our civilization. Their children excel in their studies and will stand a fair chance in their contests for success. There are those who believe that the Slav is the coming man, destined to prevail over the Latin, Anglo-Saxon, and Celt. The Poles and Lithuanians who come here are, in the main, good, frugal, and thrifty citizens of the United States. Their just pride would be gratified by doing this honor to their brave coimtryman. Their at- tachment to the land of their adoption would be stimu- lated and increased by such an act of recognition. Finally, this country is too big and too generous and too just not to do this act of simple justice to the memory of Gen. Pulaski, who gave his life that liberty might live. Mr. Brick. I ask that general leave to print on this subject alone be given for five days. There was no objection. Mr. Hemenway subsequently said: Mr. Chairman, as the representative of a large number of German- American citizens, I am pleased to know that the great service of Baron Steuben in the struggle of the American Colonies for independence is to be recognized by the erection of an equestrian statue to his memory at the city of Washington. The country is indebted to the energy of Hon. Richard Bartholdt for securing the passage of the bill providing for this statue through the House of Representatives, as it is indebted to him for his eminent service as a Mem- ber of the Congress of the United States for many years. Proceedings in Congress 159 In the report submitted to Congress, Representative Bartholdt says: There is reason, perhaps, for the failure of historians to accord a fitting position to Steuben in the record of the struggle of the American Colonies for independence, however regrettable the fact may be to the impartial student of the man's worth and work. Readers of history are attracted to the part played by men who lead battalions in stirring charges, to the heroes in action on the battle fields, just as the patrons of a theater applaud the star, unmindful, if not ignorant, of the importance of the work of the stage manager, who has ftunished the settings for the play, arranged the scenic effects, and made the actor's triumph possible. Steuben was the stage manager, as it were, in the presentation of the Revolutionary War drama, and his work has been forgotten in the ap- plause and admiration of the incomparable genius of Washington and the dash and daring of other leaders in the field whose efforts resulted in brilliant feats of arms and the achievement of American independence. Baron Steuben worked behind the scenes. He took over the ragged tatterdemalions of Washington at Valley Forge and in the face of almost insuperable obstacles worked them into an army that did yeoman service on so many fields later. It was Steuben who took in charge the raw ma- terial, the undisciplined recruits, and developed an army which for effi- ciency has challenged the admiration of the world. It is not, however, my intention to go into the history of the life of Baron Steuben, but only to refer briefly to same. He left Europe, where he had won hard-earned distinc- tion and fame and where he had a sufficient competence, and came to this coimtry and immediately addressed the following communication to Congress : Honorable Gentlemen: The honor of serving a nation engaged in defending its rights and liberties was the motive that brought me to this continent. I ask neither riches nor titles. I am come here from the remotest end of Germany, at my own expense, and have given up honorable and lucrative rank. I have made no condition with yom: deputies in France, nor shall I make any with you. My only ambition is to serve you as a vol- unteer, to deserve the confidence of your general in chief, and to follow him in all his operations, as I have done dtu-ing seven campaigns with the King of Prussia. Two and twenty years spent in such a school seem to give me a right of thinking myself among the number of experienced officers, and if I am possessed of the acquirements in the art of war they will be much more prized by me if I can employ them in the service of a republic such as I hope to soon see America. I should willingly purchase at the expense of my blood the honor of having my name enrolled among those of the defenders of your liberty. Your gracious acceptance will be sufficient for me, and I i6o Statue of Baron von Steuben ask no other favor than to be received among your officers. I venture to hope that you will grant this, my request, and that you will be so good as to send me your orders to Boston, where 1 shall await them and take suitable measures in accordance. He also addressed to Gen. Washington the following: Sir: The inclosed copy of a letter, the original of which I shall have the honor to present to Your Excellency, will inform you of the motives that brought me over to this land. I shall only add to it that the object of my greatest ambition is to render the country all the service in my power, and to deserve the title of a citizen of America by fighting for the cause of your liberty. If the distinguished ranks in which I have served in Europe should be an obstacle, I had rather serve under Yotu: Excellency as a volunteer than to be an object of discontent to such deserving officers as have already dis- tinguished themselves among you. Such being the sentiments I have always professed, I dare hope that the respectable Congress of the United States of America will accept my services. I could say, moreover, were it not for the fear.of offending your modesty, that Your Excellency is the only person imder whom, after having served the King of Prussia, I could wish to follow a pro- fession to the study of which I have wholly devoted myself. I intend to go to Boston in a few days, where I shall present my letters to Mr. Hancock, Member of Congress, and there I shall await Your Excellency's orders. At Boston, Steuben was entertained by John Hancock, who had just retired from the Presidency of the Congress, and here, after waiting five weeks, he received Washington's answer to his letter. It advised hira to report at once to Congress, then sitting at York, Pa., since it belonged exclusively to that body to enter into negotiations with him. Congress, through its President, Mr. Latu-ens, accepted his generous proposition and directed him to report to Gen. Washington at Valley Forge. Here Steuben began a work the value of which can scarcely be overestimated. In a letter to Gen. John Sullivan, dated at Valley Forge, April 8, 1778, A. Scammel thus comments on the work of Baron Steuben and its influence: Baron Stbuben sets us a truly noble example. He has undertaken the discipline of the Army, and shows himself to be a perfect master of it, not only in the grand maneuvers, but in the most minute details. To see a gentleman dignified with a lieutenant general's commission from the great Prussian monarch condescend with a grace peculiar to himself to take imder his direction a squad of 10 or 12 men in the capacity of drill sergeant, com- mands the admiration of both officers and men and causes them to improve exceedingly fast under his instructions. Proceedings in Congress i6i Speaking of his work at this time, WilUam North, who was his aid-de-camp, and therefore famiUar with the sub- ject, says in his biographical sketch of StEubEn: Certainly it was a brave attempt. Without trnderstanding a word of the English language, to think of bringing men, bom free and joined together to preserve their freedom, into strict subjection, to obey without a word, a look, the mandates of a master — ^that master once their equal, or, possibly, beneath them. * * * it was a brave attempt which nothing but vir- tue or high-raised hopes of glory could have supported. * * * From the commencement of instruction no time, no pains, no fatigue were thought too great in pursuit of this great object. Through the whole of each campaign, when troops were to maneuver, and that was almost every day, the baron rose at 3 o'clock. While his servant dressed his hair, he smoked a single pipe and drank one cup of coffee; was on horseback at sunrise, and, with or without his suite, galloped to the parade. There was no waiting for a tardy aid-de-camp, and those who followed wished they had not slept. Nor was there need of chiding; when duty was neglected or military etiquette infringed, the baron's look was quite sufficient. On the 30th of April, 1778, about six weeks after Steu- ben had commenced his active duties, Washington made the following report to Congress: The extensive ill consequences arising from a want of uniformity in disci- pline and maneuvers throughout the Army have long occasioned me to wish for the establishment of a well-organized inspectorship, and the con- currence of Congress in the same views has induced me to set on foot a tem- porary institution, which, from the success which has hitherto attended it, gives me the most flattering expectations. * * * Baron Steuben's length of service in the first military school of Europe, and his former rank, pointed him out as a person peculiarly qualified to be at the head of this department. This appeared the least exceptionable way of introducing him into the Army, and- the one that would give him the most ready opportunity of displaying his talent. I therefore proposed to him to undertake the office of Inspector General, which he agreed to do with the greatest cheerfulness, and has performed the duties of it with a zeal and intelligence equal to our wishes. * * * I should do injustice if I were to be longer silent with regard to the merits of Baron Steuben. His knowledge of his profession, added to the zeal which he has displayed since he began upon the functions of his office, leads me to consider him an acquisition to the service, and to recommend him to the attention of Congress. The "recommendation" of Washington was that Steu- ben be made Inspector General of the American Army with the rank of major general. The recommendation of Washington was followed by Congress, and by act of 84647°— 14 n 1 62 Statue of Baron von Steuben May 5, 1778, Steuben was created a major general and assigned to the duties of Inspector General of the Army. The last act of Gen. Washington before resigning his commission as Commander in Chief of the American Army was to write an appreciative letter to Baron Steuben, as follows : Annapolis, December 2^, 1783. My Dear Baron: Although I have taken frequent opportvmities, both in public and in private, of acknowledging your great zeal, attention, and abilities in performing the functions of your office, yet I wish to make use of this last moment of my public life to signify in the strongest terms my entire approbation of your conduct, and to express my sense of the obligations the public is under to you for yoiu- faithful and meritorious service. I beg you will be convinced, my dear sir, that I should rejoice if it could ever be in my power to serve you more especially than by expressions of regard and affection; but, in the meantime, I am persuaded you will not be displeased with this farewell token of my sincere friendship and esteem for you. This is the last letter I shall write while I continue in the service of my country. The hour of my resignation is fixed at 12 to-day, after which I shall become a private citizen on the banks of the Potomac, where I shall be glad to embrace you and testify the great esteem and consideration with which I am, my dear baron, etc. On March 24, 1784, Stexjben gave in his resignation which Congress accepted on April 15, with the following resolution: Resolved, That the thanks of the United States, in Congress assembled, be given to Baron Steuben for the great zeal and abilities he has discovered in tiie discharge of the several duties of his office; that a gold-hilted sword be presented to him, as a mark of the high sense Congress entertain of his character and service, and that the superintendent of finance take order for prociuring the same. Baron Steuben was only one of that sturdy, honest type of Germans who left the Fatherland to become American citizens. And loyal citizens they have been both in time of war and in time of peace. They have responded to the call of their country in three wars — the Revolutionary "War, the great War between the States, and the Spanish-American War — and in each of these wars their names have been recorded on the roll of honor of their country. Proceedings in Congress 163 And in time of peace they have been successful in every avocation in life — in the professions, on the farm, in the factory, at the compass — and they have delighted the world with their music. And in politics, not wedded to any particular party but always conservative and voting for what they beUeve is to the interest of the Government, they have in the past by their votes prevented radical changes in legislation and Government policies that wotdd have resulted in bringing distress to their country. To the German- American citizens this country of ovirs is greatly indebted for its wonderful progress and for the fact that this day our beloved flag floats over the most prosperous and happy people on earth. SENATE JULY 1, 1902 A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. W. J. Browning, its Chief Clerk, aimounced that the House had passed the following bill, in which it requested the conctirrence of the Senate: A bill (H. R. 16) to provide for the erection at Washington, D. C, of bronze equestrian statues of the late Brig. Gen. Count Casimir Pulaski and Baron Steuben. The bill (H. R. 16) to provide for the erection at Wash- ington, D. C, of bronze equestrian statues to the memory of the late Brig. Gen. Count Casimir Pulaski and Baron Steuben was read twice by its title and referred to the Committee on the I/ibrary. FIFTY-SEVENTH CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION [Extracts from the Congressional Record] SENATE FEBRUARY 6, 1903 Mr. Wetmore, from the Committee on the Library, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 16) to provide for the erection at Washington, D. C, of bronze equestrian statues to the memory of the late Brig. Gen. Count Casimir Pu- laski and Baron Stexjben, reported it with amendments, and submitted a report thereon. The report (No. 2876) follows: [Senate Report No. 2876, Fifty-seventh Congress, second session] Equestrian Statues to Memory op Count Pui,aski and Baron Steuben February 6, 1903. — Ordered to be printed Mr. Wetmore, from the Committee on the Library, submitted the follow- ing report (to accompany H. R. 16): The Committee on the Library, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 16) to provide for the erection at Washington, D. C, of bronze equestrian stat- ues to the memory of the late Brig. Gen. Count Casimir Pulaski and Baron Steuben, having had the same under consideration, beg leave to report it back with the following amendments: Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert the following: " That there shall be erected in the city of Washington, District of Colimi- bia, a statue of Brigadier General Count Casimir Pulaski, of Poland, who came to America and, after declaring his intention to become a citizen of the Republic, offered his sword to Washington, under whose leadership in the great struggle for American independence lie lost his life at the siege of Savannah, Georgia, October eleventh, seventeen hundred and seventy- nine; and for the purpose of procuring and erecting said statue with a suit- able pedestal, and for tlie preparation of a site, the sum of fifty thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, is hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the same to be expended under the direction of a commission to be composed of the Secretary of War, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the Senate, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the House of Rep- resentatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress, and the president of the Pulaski Monument Polish central committee. 164 Proceedings in Congress 165 "Sbc. 2. That there shall be erected in the city of Washington, District of Columbia, a statue of Frederick William Augustus Henry Ferdi- nand, Baron von Steuben, major general and inspector general in the Ccmtinental Army; and for the purpose of procuring and erecting said statue with a suitable pedestal, and for the preparation of a site, the sum of fifty thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, is hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasiuy not otherwise appropriated, the same to be expended under the direction of a commission to be com- posed of the Secretary of War, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the Senate, and the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress. "Sec. 3. That the commissions herein created are empowered, respec- tively, to select sites for the statues authorized by this act on ground belong- ing to the Government: Pro-vided, That said statues shall not be located in the grounds of the Capitol or Library of Congress. " Amend the title so as to read: "An act to provide for the erection at Washington, District of Columbia, of statues to the memory of Brigadier General Count Pulaski and Major General Baron voN SteubEN, of the Continental Army." The propositions for the erection of statues of Count PulasH and Baron Steuben were introduced as separate measures in the House of Repre- sentatives, and each was reported favorably from committee. When under consideration in the House they were consolidated and came to the Senate as one act. The House reports accompanying the two bills are reprinted herewith. ***** Note. — House Report No. 2497, Fifty-seventh Congress, first session, included as a part of Senate Report No. 2876, is omitted here. It will be found on pages 137-149. FEBRUARY 23, 1903 Mr. Fairbanks. I ask tmanimous consent for the pres- ent consideration of the bill (H. R. 16) to provide for the erection at Washington, D. C, of bronze equestrian stat- ues to the memory of the late Brig. Gen. Cotint Casimir Pulaski and Baron Steuben. Mr. President, I regret that the pressure of the public business is so great that I am unable to speak at length upon this bill. I am fully aware, however, that it needs no advocacy, for the American people cherish the memory of Brig. Gen. Count Casimir Pulaski, the great Polish patriot who rendered such illustrious service in the sub- lime cause of American independence. 1 66 Statue of Baron von Steuben Nor is any word necessary to secure the passage of the bill to erect a statue in honor of the memory of Baron VON Steuben, who wrote with his sword a brilliant record in American history. It is a happy circumstance that both Pulaski and Steuben are associated in the bill, consideration of which I now ask. They possessed the entire confidence of George Washington, and gave powerful aid to the ex- alted cause of freedom upon the western continent. We are a grateful people, and we will erect here in the Nation's Capital monuments which shall fitly commem- orate the services of Count Pulaski and Baron von Steuben, and which shall stand forever in the shadow of the majestic shaft erected to the memory of their great commander, George Washington. I hope, Mr. President, that the bill may be given pres- ent consideration. There being no objection, the Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, proceeded to consider the bill, which had been reported from the Committee on the Library with an amendment to strike out all after the enacting clause and insert: That there shall be erected in the city of Washington, District of Colum- bia, a statue of Brig. Gen. Count Casimir Pulaski, of Poland, who came to America and, after declaring his intention to become a citizen of the Re- public, offered his sword to Washington, under whose leadership in the great struggle for American independence he lost his life at the siege of Savannah, Ga., October ii, 1779; and for the purpose of procuring and erecting said statue, with a suitable pedestal, and for the preparation of a site, the sum of $50,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, is hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the same to be expended under the direction of a commission to be com- posed of the Secretary of War, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the Senate, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress, and the presi- dent of the Pulaski Monument Polish central committee. Sbc. 2. That there shall be erected in the city of Washington, District of Columbia, a statue of Frederick William Augustus Henry Ferdinand, Baron von Steuben, major general and inspector general in the Continental Army; and for the purpose of procuring and erecting said statue, with a suit- Proceedings in Congress 167 able pedestal, and for the preparation of a site, the sum of $50,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, is hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the same to be expended under the direction of a commission to be composed of the Secretary of War, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the Senate, and the chair- man of the Committee on the Library of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress. Sec. 3. That the commissions herein created are empowered, respec- tively, to select sites for the statues authorized by this act on ground be- longing to the Government: Provided, That said statues shall not be located in the grounds of the Capitol or Library of Congress. The amendment was agreed to. The bill was reported to the Senate as amended, and the amendment was concmred in. The amendment was ordered to be engrossed, and the bill to be read a third time. The bill was read the third time, and passed. The title was amended so as to read: A bill to provide for the erection at Washington, D. C, of statues to the memory of Brigadier General Count Pulaski and Major General Baron von Steuben, of the Continental Army. HOUSE FEBRUARY 23, 1903 A message from the Senate, by Mr. Parkinson, its read- ing clerk, annoimced that the Senate had passed a bill of the following title: H. R. i6. An act to provide for the erection, at Washington, D. C, of bronze equestrian statues to the memory of the late Brig. Gen. Count Casi- mir Pulaski and Baron Steuben. The Speaker laid before the House the Senate amend- ment to the biU (H. R. i6) to provide for the erection at Washington, D. C, of bronze equestrian statues to the memory of the late Brig. Gen. Count Casimir Pulaski and Baron Steuben. Mr. McClEary. I move that the House agree to the Senate amendment. 1 68 Statue of Baron von Steubzn Mr. Burton. Mr. Speaker, I should like to inquire what the Senate amendment is. I tmderstand that it moves to strike out all after the enacting clause, and we should like to know more about it. The Speaker. The amendment will be read, if de- sired. The Clerk read as follows: Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert: "That there shall be erected in the city of Washington, D. C, a statue of Brig. Gen. Count Casimir Pulaski, of Poland, who came to America and, 'after declaring his intention to become a citizen of the Republic, offered his sword to Washington, under whose leadership in the great strug- gle for American independence he lost his life at the siege of Savannah, Ga., October ii, 1779; and for the purpose of procuring and erecting said statue with a suitable pedestal, and for the preparation of a site, the sum of $50,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, is hereby appropri- ated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the same to be expended under the direction of a commission to be composed of the Secretary of War, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the Senate, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress, and the president of the Pulaski Monument Polish central committee. "Sec. 2. That there shall be erected in the city of Washington, D. C, a statue of Frederick Wiluam Augustus Henry Ferdinand, Baron VON Steuben, major general and inspector general in the Continental Army; and for the purpose of procuring and erecting said statue with a suitable pedestal, and for the preparation of a site, the sum of $50,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, is hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the same to be ex- pended tmder the direction of a commission to be composed of the Secre- tary of War, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the Sen- ate, and the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress. "Sec. 3. That the commissions herein created are empowered, respec- tively, to select sites for the statues authorized by this act on ground be- longing to the Government: Provided, That said statues shall not be lo- cated in the grounds of the Capitol or Library of Congress." Amend the title so as to read: "An act to provide for the erection at Washington, D. C, of statues to the memory of Brigadier General Count Pulaski and Major General Baron VON Steuben, of the Continental Army." Proceedings in Congress 169 The Speaker. The question is on the motion of the gentleman from Minnesota that the House concvu: in the Senate amendment. The motion was agreed to. FEBRUARY 24, 1903 Mr. Wachter, from the Committee on Emrolled Bills, reported that they had examined and found truly enrolled a bill of the following title, when the Speaker signed the same: H. R. i6. An act to provide for the erection at Washington, D. C, of statues to the memory of Brig. Gen. Cotmt Pulaski and Maj. Gen. Baron VON Steuben, of the Continental Army. SENATE FEBRUARY 25, 1903 A message from the House of Representatives by Mr. W. J. Browning, its Chief Clerk, announced that the Speaker of the House had signed the following enrolled bill, and it was thereupon signed by the President pro tempore: A bill (H. R. i6) to provide for the erection at Washington, D. C, of statues to the memory of Brig. Gen. Count Pulaski and Maj. Gen. Baron von Steuben, of the Continental Army. HOUSE FEBRUARY 26, 1903 Mr. Wachter, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, reported that they had presented this day to the Presi- dent of the United States for his approval a bill of the following title: H. R. i6. An act to provide for the erection at Washington, D. C, of statues to the memory of Brig. Gen. Count Pulaski and Maj. Gen. Baron von Steuben, of the Continental Army. FEBRUARY 28, 1903 Mr. Barnes, one of the secretaries of the President of the United States, informed the House that the President 1 70 Statue of Baron von Steuben had approved and signed a bill of the following title on February 27, 1903: H. R. 16. An act to provide for the erection at Washington, D. C, of statues to the memory of Brig. Gen. Count Pulaski and Maj. Gen. Baron von Steuben, of the Continental Army. The act (Public, No. 120) follows: [Public, No. 120] AN ACT To provide for the erection at Washington, District of Columbia, of statues to the memory of Brigadier General Count Pulaski and Major General Baron VON StbubQH, of the Continental Army Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That there shall be erected in the city of Washington, District of Columbia, a statue of Brigadier General Count Casimir Pulaski, of Poland, who came to America and, after declaring his intention to become a citizen of the Republic, offered his sword to Wash- ington, under whose leadership in the great struggle for American inde- pendence he lost his life at the siege of Savannah, Georgia, October eleventh, seventeen hundred and seventy-nine; and for the purpose of procuring and erecting said statue with a suitable pedestal, and for the preparation of a site, the sum of fifty thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be neces- sary, is hereby appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not other- wise appropriated, the same to be expended under the direction of a com- mission to be composed of the Secretary of War, the chairman of the Com- mittee on the Library of the Senate, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress, and the president of the Pulaski Monument Polish central committee. Sec. 2. That there shall be erected in the city of Washington, District of Columbia, a statue of Frederick William Augustus Henry Ferdinand, Baron voN Steuben, major general and inspector general in the Continental Army; and for the purpose of procuring and erecting said statue with a suit- able pedestal, and for the preparation of a site, the sum of fifty thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, is hereby appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the same to be expended under the direction of a commission to be composed of the Secretary of War, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the Sen- ate, and the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the House of Rep- resentatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress. Sec. 3. That the commissions herein created are empowered, respectively, to select sites for the statues authorized by this Act on ground belonging to the Government: Provided, That said statues shall not be located in the grounds of the Capitol or Library of Congress. Approved, February 27, 1903. SIXTY-FIRST CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION [Extracts from the Congressional Record] HOUSE DECEMBER 21, 1909 A bill (H. R. 16222) for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben, introduced by Mr. Bar- tholdt, of Missouri, and referred to the Committee on the Library. The bill reads as follows: [H. R. 16222. Sixty-first Congress, second session] In the House of Representatives December 21, 1909 Mr. Bartholdt introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on the Library and ordered to be printed A BILL For the erection of a replica of the statue of General VON Stetjben Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the expenditure of the sum of five thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, be, and the same is hereby, authorized to be made under the direction of the Secretary of State and the Joint Committee on the Library for the erection of a bronze replica of the statue of General von Steuben authorized to be erected in Washington; said replica to be presented to His Majesty the German Em- peror and the German Nation in return for the statue of Frederick the Great, presented by the Emperor to the people of the United States. JANUARY 12, 1910 Mr. McCall, from the Committee on the Library, to which was referred the bill of the House (H. R. 16222) for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben, reported the same with amendment, accom- panied by a report (No. 128), which said bill and report were referred to the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union. The report (No. 128) follows: 171 172 Stattie of Baron von Steuben [House Report No. 128, Sixty-first Congress, second session] Repuca op Status op Gbn. von Stbuben January 12, 1910. — Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union and ordered to be printed Mr. McCall, from the Committee on the Library, submitted the follow- ing report (to accompany H. R. 16222): The Committee on the Library, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 16222) for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben, have considered the same and report that it be amended, 'and as amended that it do pass. The gift of the German Emperor to the United States of the statue of Frederick the Great stands in the groimds of the War College in the city of Washington, and it is in recognition of this gift that it is proposed to give to the Emperor of Germany and to the German Nation the replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben authorized to be erected in Washington. Baron von Steuben was a German nobleman and a close friend of Frederick the Great, and it was with the cordial approval of Frederick that Von Steuben came to America and tendered his services to Gen. Washington as aid-de-camp and drillmaster of the American armies. Amend by striking out in line 10 the words "in return for" and in- sert in lieu thereof the words "in recognition of the gift of." JANUARY 17, 1910 The following executive communication was taken from the Speaker's table, referred to the Committee on Appropriations, and ordered printed: A letter from the Acting Secretary of the Treasury, transmitting a copy of a letter from the Secretary of War submitting an estimate of appropriation for un- veiling and dedicating a statue of Gen. Baron von Steuben (H. Doc. No. 545). The document reads as follows: [House Document No. 545, Sixty-first Congress, second session] Statue op Gen. Baron von Steuben Letter from the Acting Secretary of the Treasury, transmitting a copy of a communication from the Secretary of War submitting an estimate of appropriation for unveiling and dedicating a statue of Gen. Baron von Steuben January 17, 1910. — Referred to the Committee on Appropriations and ordered to be printed Treasury Department, Office op the Secretary, Washington, January i;, igio. Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith, for the consideration of Congress, copy of a communication from the Secretary of War, of the 14th Proceedings in Congress 1 73 instant, submitting an estimate of appropriation in the sum of $3,000, for unveiling and dedicating the statue of Gen. Baron voN SteubEN and for each and every purpose connected therewith. Respectfully, Charles D. Hiw-es, Acting Secretary. The Speaker o» the House op Representatives. War Department, Washington, January 14, igio. Sm: I have the honor to forward herewith, for transmission to Congress, an estimate of an appropriation of $3,000 required by the VoN StEubEN Statue Commission for expenses incident to unveiling and dedicating the statue of Gen. Baron voN Steuben in the city of Washington, which the sculptor expects will be erected and completed by the autumn of 1910. Very respectfully, J. M. Dickinson, Secretary of War. The Secretary op the Treasury. Estimates of appropriations required for the service of the fiscal year ending June JO, zgii, by the Von Steuben Statue Commission WAR department — buildings AND GROUNDS IN AND AROUND WASHINGTON Unveiling statue of Gen. Baron voN SteubEn: For unveiling and dedicating the statue of Gen. Baron voN Steuben and for each and every purpose connected there- with (submitted) $3, 000 Note. — By an act of Congress approved February 27, 1903 (32 Stats., pt. I, p. 908), Congress appropriated the sum of $50,000 for procuring and erecting in the city of Washington a statue of Gen. Baron voN Steuben, with a suitable pedestal, and for the preparation of a site, the money to be expended under the direction of a commission to be composed of the Sec- retary of War, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the Senate, and the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress. Under the wording of the act no portion of the appropriation can be used to defray the expense of unveiling the monument; moreover, the entire amount will probably be needed for the purposes specified by the act. It is necessary, therefore, that an additional appropriation be pro- vided for the ceremonies incident to the dedication of the monument, which the sculptor expects will be erected and completed by the autumn of 19 10. The commission was not made aware of the necessity for the appropria- tion requested in time to include an estimate for it in the Book of Esti- mates of Appropriations for igii. (/. M. Dickinson, Secretary of War, chairman Von Steuben Statue Commission.") 174 Statue of Baron von Steuben FEBRUARY 9, 1910 Mr. McCall. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Com- mittee on the Library, I call up the bill (H. R. 16222) for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben, which I send to the desk and ask to have read. The Clerk read as follows: Be it enacted, etc., That the expenditure of the sum of $5,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, be, and the same is hereby, authorized to be made under the direction of the Secretary of State and the Joint Com- mittee on the Library for the erection of a bronze replica of the statue of Gen. VON Steuben, authorized to be erected in Washington; said replica to be presented to His Majesty the German Emperor and the German Nation in return for the statue of Frederick the Great, presented by the Emperor to the people of the United States. With the following amendment: Line 10, strike out the words "in return for," and insert in lieu thereof the words "in recognition of the gift of." Mr. McCall. Mr. Speaker, as this involves a very simple proposition, I ask unanimous consent that it be considered in the House as in the Committee of the Whole House. The Speaker. The gentleman from Massachusetts asks unanimous consent to consider the bill in the House as in the Committee of the Whole. Is there objection? [After a pause.] The Chair hears none. Mr. Tawney. I will move to strike out the last word, or I will speak to the committee amendment. The Speaker. The gentleman from Minnesota asks recognition on the committee amendment. Mr. Tawney. For the purpose of asking a question, and that is. Whether it is the understanding of the gentleman from Missouri, the author of the bill, that this language carries an appropriation of $5,000 for that purpose? Mr. BarTholdt. That is my understanding, and that was the purpose of the committee. Mr. Tawney. It authorizes the expenditure, but there is no appropriation, and we will have to make the appro- priation hereafter, if it is done. Proceedings in Congress 1 75 Mr. Bartholdt. Mr. Speaker, I do not care to occupy the attention of the House unless Mr. Mann. Will the gentleman yield for a question? Mr. Barthoi^dt. Certainly. Mr. Mann. Does the gentleman think that this will have a tendency toward bringing about the era of peace the gentleman is so urgent to bring about by making these gifts back and forth between the two warlike nations of the world? Mr. BARTHOI.DT. Mr. Speaker, in answer to that I am happy to say that no such gifts are necessary to estab- Ush an era of peace between the United States and Germany [applause] because the two countries have main- tained a traditional friendship from the time of Fred- erick the Great. A few years ago the German Emperor presented to this country a statue of Frederick the Great. It was a token of the traditional friendship between Germany and the United States. Frederick the Great was a friend and well-wisher of George Washington, and the first of Eiuropean monarchs to formally recognize the independence of the American Colonies. In remembrance of these historical facts the statue was presented by the German Emperor and accepted by the American Government. No return has ever been made on the part of this country for this act of international courtesy. It is, therefore, proposed in the pending bill to present to the German Emperor and Nation, in recognition of their gift, a replica of the monument which Congress has authorized to be erected in this city to the memory of Baron Steuben, the great drillmaster of the Revolutionary Army. A replica of the Steuben Statue is generally regarded as a most fitting object for a gift to Germany, for the reason that the baron, who left the Berlin court to tender his services to Gen. Washington, was a friend of both Washington and Frederick the Great, and the gift will, no doubt, be received by the great ruler of the German Empire in 176 Statue of Baron von Steuben behalf of his people in the same spirit in which it is to be tendered. The bill, which has the unanimous recommendation of the Committee on the Library, carries an appropriation of only $5,000, $4,000 of which will be the cost of the replica and $1,000 to cover the expenses of shipping, and so forth. I sincerely hope that the bill may be passed without further debate. Mr. SuivZER. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the gentleman a question, and that is: Whether he does not think that it would be better for the Uberty and freedom of all the people throughout the world to send to Ger- many a statue of George Washington instead of the statue of Gen. VON Steuben? Mr. BARTHOtDT. Well, that proposition was not before us and is not before us now, but if my friend from New York will make a motion to that effect I should vote "aye" upon it. Mr. SuLZER. Mr. Speaker, then, in order to test the patriotic sense of the Members of the House, I move to amend by inserting the statue of George Washington instead of the statue of Steuben. The Speaker. Is the amendment of the gentleman an amendment to the amendment or a substitute for the amendment ? Mr. Stafford. Mr. Speaker, I make the point of order that the amendment is not germane. The Speaker. Does the gentleman from New York desire to be heard on the point of order? Mr. SuLZER. Mr. Speaker, I do not desire to be heard on the point of order, although I do not think the point of order can possibly lie against this amendment. I have a right, I believe, to move an amendment to this bill. It is before the House for the purpose of being amended or perfected. Mr. McCai^l. Mr. Speaker, I think the gentleman from New York would have to make his amendment a little Proceedings in Congress 177 more definite; he woxild have to specify what statue of Washington he desires to have sent. We have a number in the city of Washington. Mr. BarthoItDT. Mr. Speaker, I should like to be heard. The Speaker. For or against the point of order? Mr. Barthoi^dt. For the point of order. The Speaker. The Chair is prepared to rule. The gentleman from New York does not desire to be heard on the point of order. The Chair sustains the point of order, as under the precedents it is clearly not germane. The object of the bill is for the erection of a replica of a statue of Gen. von Steuben Mr. SuivZER. A parliamentary inquiry, Mr. Speaker The Speaker (continuing). And it is not a general bill to erect a monument, but it is confined to a monu- ment or a replica of Gen. von Steuben. Mr. SuivZER. Just a parUamentary inquiry, Mr. Speaker. The Speaker. Certainly. Mr. SuLZER. I would like to know if George Wash- ington is out of order. [Laughter.] The Speaker. In the present company, yes. [Great laughter.] The question was taken, and the amendments of the committee were agreed to. The bill as amended was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading; and being engrossed, it was accordingly read the third time and passed. Mr. BartholdT. Mr. Speaker, I ask imanimous con- sent to extend my remarks in the Record. The Speaker. Is there objection? [After a pause.] The Chair hears none. SENATE FEBRUARY 10, 1910 A message from the House of Representatives, by W. J. Browning, its Chief Clerk, announced that the House had passed the following bill: 84647°— 14 12 1 78 Statue of Baron von Steuben H. R. 16222. An act for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben. The bill H. R. 16222, an act for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. von StbubEN, was read twice by its title and referred to the Committee on the Library. MAY 16, 1910 Mr. Root, from the Committee on the Library, to whom was referred a bill (H. R. 16222) for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben, reported the same without amendment and submitted a report thereon (Rept. No. 693). The report (No. 693) follows: [Senate Report No. 693, Sixty-first Congress, second session] Replica of Statue op Gen. von Steuben May 16, 1910. — Ordered to be printed i Mr. Root, from the Committee on the Library, submitted the following report (to accompany H. R. 16222): The Committee on the Library, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 16222) entitled "An act for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. Steuben," have had the same under consideration and report it back without amendment. The report of the House Committee on the Library on this bill is reprinted herewith. HOUSE MAY 27, 1910 The House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for the further consideration of the sundry civil appropriation bill, with Mr. Mann in the chair. The Clerk read as follows: Unveiling statue of Gen. Baron vON SteubEn: For unveiling and dedi- cating the statue of Gen. Baron vON Steuben and for each and every pur- pose connected therewith, $2,500. Mr. Macon. Mr. Chairman, on that paragraph I reserve the point of order. Mr. TawnEY. Mr. Chairman, I will state for the iirfor- mation of the gentleman from Arkansas that February 27, Proceedings in Congress lyg 1903, Congress appropriated $50,000 for the erection of this statue. No part of that appropriation that was then made available can be expended for the unveiling of the statue, and this is for the purpose, now that the statue is completed and will be erected and ready for tmveiling during this year, of enabling the statue to be unveiled and to contribute to that ceremony what Congress did in respect to the two statues tmveiled here a couple of weeks ago. Mr. Macon. Was the entire $50,000 expended? Mr. Tawney. The entire $50,000 — I can not answer whether it has all been expended or not, but under the language of the appropriation not a dollar of it can be expended on account of the unveiling. It is not available and can not be expended, by the language of the act, for that purpose. Mr. Macon. My reason for asking the question was to ascertain whether any part of the $50,000 was unexpended out of which this amotmt of $2,500 might be taken. Mr. TawistEy. No matter how large the balance of the appropriation might be, none of it could be expended for this purpose, because the language carrying the original appropriation provides it shall not be expended for the unveiling of the monument. Mr. Macon. Has this monument been erected? Mr. Tawney. It has not been erected yet; but I under- stand it is completed and will be erected this fall sometime or next spring. Mr. Bates. The language of the appropriation was " as much as might be necessary," was it not? Mr. Tawney. Yes. Mr. Macon. I will say to the gentleman in charge of the bill, Mr. Chairman, that, judging by the tardy progress of the work on the Grant Monument, I do not think this appropriation will be needed for several years. Mr. Tawney. I will say to the gentleman from Arkansas [Mr. Macon] that this appropriation has been expended i8o Statue of Baron von Steuben by a commission composed of the Secretary of War, the chairman of the Committee on Library in the Senate, and the chairman of the Committee on Library in the House of Representatives. Now, the Secretary of War says the commission was not made aware of the necessity for the appropriation requested in time to include an esti- mate for it in the Book of Estimates for appropriations for 191 1. And he also calls attention to the fact that no part of the original appropriation is available for this purpose. And I recall that some time ago, when this matter was before the House, the gentleman from Mis- souri [Mr. Bartholdt] stated that this monument was completed, and it was to be erected and unveiled this year. That is my recollection of his statement. Mr. Macon. Is he a member of the commission? Mr. Tawnby. No. The commission consists of no one but the Secretary of War, the chairman of the Committee on Library in the Senate, and the chairman of the Com- mittee on Library in the House. Mr. Macon. The gentleman from Minnesota has had no suggestion from them as to when the unveiling would take place? Mr. Tawney. Next fall sometime; about the ist of November. And the money appropriated here would not be expended until the monument was ready for im- veiling, but it will be during the calendar year 19 10 — sometime about the ist of November. Mr. Macon. Mr. Chairman, $50,000 having been appro- priated and used, I am not disposed to retard the progress of the erection and unveiling of the monument by insist- ing upon the point of order. I therefore withdraw it. The Chairman. The gentleman withdraws the point of order. Under the unanimous-consent agreement the Clerk will proceed to read on page 73, line 12. Mr. CAMPBELiy. Mr. Chairman, I would like to ask the chairman of the Committee on Appropriations what items of expense are intended to be covered by this $2,500? Proceedings in Congress i8i Mr. Tawney. The same items of expense as were in- cluded in the unveiling of the two monuments — one on Pennsylvania Avenue and one in Lafayette Park, namely, the Kosciuszko and Pulaski. The seating arrangements will constitute the principal item of expense. Mr. Campbell. I have observed that when seating capacity is being arranged for the unveUing of these monu- ments new lumber is invariably used in each instance, and I want to know if the Government buys and pays for material to be used for the one occasion in each of these instances or whether there is a salvage after the use of the lumber? It looked to me like a waste of material to buy new lumber every time seating capacity is provided for the unveiling of these statues. Mr. Tawney. I wUl say to the gentleman that the con- ditions under which the limiber is obtained amotmts prac- tically to a lease of the Imnber. It is bought on condition that it is to be taken back by the firm from which it is piurchased after the tmveiling has taken place, at a price agreed upon between the dealer and the commission. It is not an absolute purchase. It is only a conditional one. It has to be taken back. The Clerk proceeded with the reading of the bill. Mr. BartholdT. Mr. Chairman, I wanted to suggest an amendment to this paragraph, increasing the amount from $2,500 to $3,500 Mr. Macon. Mr. Chairman, I make the point of order that the amendment comes too late. The paragraph has been passed. The Chairman. The gentleman was on his feet asking for recognition when the Clerk commenced to read on page 73. The gentleman from Missouri [Mr. Bartholdt] offers an amendment, which the Clerk will report. The Clerk read as follows: Strike out "two" and insert "three," page 68, line 7, so that it will read "$3,500." Mr. Bartholdt. Mr. Chairman, I understand that the appropriation for the recent unveiling of the Pulaski and i82 Statue of Baron von Stevben Kosciuszko statues was $2,500 and the same amount has been inserted for the Steuben Statue. But I am informed that greater faciHties will be necessary for the unveiling of the Steuben Monument than were required recently. It is intended that from 3,000 to 4,000 singers will be present for the ptu-pose of singing songs. A platform will have to be erected for them, and I understand this will entail an expense of at least $1,000 or more if these singers, who will come from all parts of the United States — from the West, the South, the North, and the East — are to be ac- commodated. I seriously hope that this small increase of expenditure will be made for their accommodation. Mr. Tawney. Mr. Chairman, I trust the amendment will not be agreed to. I do not think that the expenses incident to the imveiUng of any of these statues ought to be more than $2,500. That was the amount that we ap- propriated for both of the statues that were unveiled here several weeks ago. It seems to me that $3,000 would be an exorbitant amount to be expended for this purpose, because the main item of expense is providing seating capacity for those who attend. I do not think that we ever appropriated as much as $2,500 before we appropri- ated for the unveiUng of the Kosciuszko and Pulaski statues. Mr. Barthgi^dt. Mr. Chairman, I desire to say to the gentleman from Minnesota that I did not bring the mat- ter to the attention of the Committee on Appropriations, and especially of the distinguished chairman, because the necessity of this additional appropriation has only recently become apparent. The fact is, Mr. Chairman, that it is proposed to make this the greatest demonstration of Ger- man-Americans that has ever taken place in the United States. I am informed that at least 50,000 people will be here, as compared, perhaps, with five or six thousand who attended when the Pulaski and Kosciuszko statues were unveiled. Naturally, the Government should do some- thing toward accommodating these great masses of people. Proceedings in Congress 1 83 Mr. Cox of Indiana. What is the estimate of the crowd that came here the other day to attend the miveiling of the statues? Mr. BartholdT. Five or six thousand. Mr. Cox of Indiana. And the gentleman estimates how many will be here on this occasion? Mr. BarThoIvDT. At least 50,000. Mr. Cox of Indiana. A very large number will come here from Germany. Mr. Tawney. I think the gentleman tmderestimated the number of those who attended the imveiling of the two statues recently. My information is that there were probably a great many more than 5,000 or 6,000. Mr. Cox of Indiana. Did the seating capacity fiU the bill all right the other day ? Mr. Tawney. Yes. Of course the proceedings do not occupy a great deal of time, and the seating capacity is provided mainly for the societies under whose jurisdiction the statue has been prepared and erected and distingtiished guests. Now, it is not proposed to provide a seating capacity for 10,000 or 15,000 or 20,000 people. These exercises do not last very long. Mr. Cox of Indiana. But they are very important. Mr. Tawney. And the German-Americans and the Polanders and the Americans can stand up a Uttle while. If we undertook to provide seating capacity for all who attended, $3,000 would not be a drop in the bucket. Mr. BarTholdt. At least 45,000 people would have to stand up. I merely wish to call attention to the organ- izations that will participate in this coming event. There is the National German Alliance, composed of 2,000,000 citizens of the United States ; the North American Athletic Union, with over 100,000 citizens; the Eastern American and Western American Singer Societies, organizations comprising about 250,000 members. Under the auspices of these organizations these unveiling ceremonies will take place; and, as I say, the seating capacity will, of course, have to be somewhat enlarged. Statue of Baron von Steuben We can not possibly seat all those who want to attend; but for the singers who want to contribute to the dignity of the occasion by music and song and who are contributing liberally out of their own pockets by coming to the National Capital, we should at least have a place for them to be seated and a platform from which they can render their songs. Mr. FiTzGERAi^D. Will the gentleman yield for a question ? Mr. BARTHOt,DT. Certainly. Mr. Fitzgerald. Where is this statue to be unveiled? Mr. BarthoIvDT. On Lafayette Square; the corner near- est to Connecticut Avenue. Mr. Stafford. The northwest comer. Mr. Fitzgerald. There is hardly any place there where you could build a platform that would hold 4,000 people. The platforms are generally built for the accommodation of the distinguished representatives of the different organ- izations who have some intimate connection with the memory of the person to be honored, and it is that they may be given an opportunity to be seated while the addresses are being delivered. It has never been possible to provide seating accommodation for all the visitors that would come to Washington. Mr. Bartholdt. That is a matter of course. Mr. Fitzgerald. It would not be possible to build a platform where 4,000 people could be accommodated. Mr. Bartholdt. Mr. Chairman, I am merely expressing the wishes of those who have this matter in charge. Mr. Fitzgerald. My understanding is that this money is used not only for the stands but for decorations, for engraving, for invitations, and a nxmiber of other inci- dental expenses. The Chairman. The time of the gentleman from Mis- souri has expired. The question is on agreeing to the amendment. The question was taken, and the Chairman announced that the nays seemed to have it. Proceedings in Congress 185 Mr. BarTholdT. Division, Mr. Chairman. The committee divided, and there were — ayes, 28 ; noes, 35. So the amendment was rejected. SENATE JUNE 20, 1910 Mr. WetmorE. I ask unanimous consent for the pres- ent consideration of Order of Business No. 653, being the bill (H. R. 16222) for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. von Stexjben. The Secretary read the bill, and, there being no ob- jection, the Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, pro- ceeded to its consideration. It appropriates $5,000 for the erection of a bronze replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben, authorized to be erected in Washington, the replica to be presented to His Majesty the German Eni- peror and the German Nation in recognition of the gift of the statue of Frederick the Great, presented by the Emperor to the people of the United States. The bill was reported to the Senate without amend- ment, ordered to a third reading, read the third time, and passed. HOUSE JUNE 21, 1910 Mr. Wilson of Illinois, from the Committee on En- rolled Bills, reported that they had examined and found truly enrolled a bill of the following title, when the Speaker signed the same: H. R. 16222. An act for tlie erection of a replica of tte statue of Gen. von Steuben. SENATE JUNE 22, 1910 A message from the House of Representatives, by C. R. McKenney, its enrolling clerk, announced that the Speaker of the House had signed the following enrolled bill, and it was thereupon signed by the Vice President: H. R. 16222. An act for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben. 1 86 Statue of Baron von Steuben HOUSE JUNE 22, 1910 Mr. Wilson of Illinois, from the Committee on En- rolled Bills, reported that this day they had presented to the President of the United States for his approval the following bill: H. R. 16222. An act for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben. JUNE 25, 1910 Mr. Latta, one of the secretaries of the President of the United States, informed the House of Representa- tives that the President had approved and signed a bill of the following title on Jime 23, 1912: H. R. 16222. An act for the erection of a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben. The act (Public, No. 260) follows: [H. R. 16222; Public, No. 260] AN ACT For the erection of a replica of the statue of General von Stbuben Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the expenditiire of the sum of five thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, be, and the same is hereby, authorized to be made under the direction of the Sec- retary of State and the Joint Committee on the Library for the erection of a bronze replica of the statue of General von SteubEn authorized to be erected in Washington; said replica to be presented to His Majesty the German Emperor and the German Nation in recognition of the gift of the statue of Frederick the Great, presented by the Emperor to the people of the United States. Approved, June 23, 1910. JjC H* •!■ 't' V Mr. Tawney. Mr. Speaker, I desire to call up the joint resolution appropriating $5,000 for the production of the replica of the statue of Gen. von Stetjben, and move to suspend the rules and pass the resolution. The Speaker. The gentleman from Minnesota moves to suspend the rules and pass the following joint resolution, which the Clerk will report. Proceedings in Congress 187 The Clerk read as follows : Joint resolution 240, to carry out the provisions of an act to present a replica of the statue of Gen. VON SxBUBEN to the German Emperor and to the German Nation Resolved, etc., That there is hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the sum of $5,000 to enable the Secretary of State, pursuant to an act of Congress at the present session of Congress, to present to the German Emperor and German people a rep- lica of the statue of Gen. voN Steuben that is to be erected in Wash- ington, D. C. The Speaker. Is a second demanded? [After a pause.] No second being demanded, the question is on suspending the riiles and passing the joint resolution. The question was taken; and two-thirds having voted in favor thereof, the rules were suspended and the joint resolution was passed. SENATE JUNE 25, 1910 A message from the House of Representatives, by W. J. Browning, its Chief Clerk, announced that the House had passed a joint resolution (H. J. Res. 240) to carry out the provisions of an act to present a repUca of the statue of Gen. VON Steuben to the German Emperor and to the German Nation, in which it requested the concurrence of the Senate. The Vice President laid before the Senate the joint resolution (H. J. Res. 240) to carry out the provisions of an act to present a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben to the Emperor and to the German Nation, which was read twice by its title. Mr. Wetmore. Mr. President, I ask tmanimous con- sent for the present consideration of the joint resolution. There being no objection, the Senate, as in Committee of the Whole, proceeded to consider the joint resolution. It proposes to appropriate $5,000 to enable the Secretary of State, pursuant to an act passed at the present ses- sion of Congress, to present to the German Emperor and 1 88 Statue of Baron von Steuben to the German people a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben that is to be erected in Washington, D. C. The joint resolution was reported to the Senate with- out amendment, ordered to a third reading, read the third time, and passed. HOUSE JUNE 25, 1910 A message from the Senate, by Mr. Crockett, one of its clerks, announced that the Senate had passed, without amendment, joint resolution of the following title: H. J. Res. 240. Joint resolution to carry out the provisions of an act to present a replica of the statue of Gen. voN Steubbn to the German Emperor and to the German nation. ***** Mr. Wilson of Illinois, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, reported that this day they had presented to the President of the United States for his approval the fol- lowing joint resolution: H. J. Res. 240. Joint resolution to cany out the provisions of an act to present a replica of the statue of Gen. von Steuben to the German Emperor and to the German nation. ***** A message from the President of the United States, by Mr. Latta, one of his secretaries, announced that the President had, on Jvme 25, 1910, approved and signed bills and joint resolution of the following titles: ***** H. J. Res. 240. Joint resolution to carry out the provisions of an act to present a replica of the statue of Gen. voN SteubEN to the German Emperor and to the German nation. The resolution (Public, No. 50) follows: [Public resolution — No. 50] [H. J. Res. 240I JOINT RESOLUTION To carry out the provisions of an act to present a replica of the statue of General von Stboben to the German Emperor and to the German nation Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That there is hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the sum of $5,000 Proceedings in Congress 189 to enable tie Secretary of State, pursuant to an act passed at the present session of Congress, to present to the German Emperor and to the German people a replica of the statue of General von Steubbn that is to be erected in Washington, District of Columbia. Approved, June 25, 1910. Mr. Wilson of Illinois, from the Committee on Em-oUed Bills, reported that this day they had presented to the President of the United States, for his approval, the fol- lowing bill : H. R. 25552. An act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the Government for the fiscal year ending June 30, 191 1, and for other purposes. This act (Public, No. 266, approved June 25, 1910) con- tained the following appropriation: Unveiling statue of General Baron vow Steuben: For unveiling and dedicating the statue of General Baron von Steuben and for each and every purpose connected therewith, $2,500. SIXTY-FIRST CONGRESS, THIRD SESSION [Extracts from the Congressional Record] HOUSE JANUARY 28, 1911 A concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 58) providing for the printing of the proceedings upon the unveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben, introduced by Mr. Bar- tholdt, of Missouri, and referred to the Committee on Printing. The resolution (H. Con. Res. 58) follows: [H. Con. Res. 58, Sixty-first Congress, third session] In the House of Representatives January 28, 1911 Mr. Bartholdt submitted the following conciurent resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Printing and ordered to be printed Resohed by the House of Representatives {the Senate concurring). That there shall be printed and bound in the form of eulogies, with accompanying illus- trations, seventeen thousand one hundred copies of the proceedings upon the imveiling of the statue of Baron voN Steuben in Washington, December seventh, nineteen hundred and ten, of which five thousand shall be for the use of the Senate, ten thousand for the use of the House of Representatives, two thousand to be delivered to the National German-American Alliance for such distribution as said alliance may desire to make, and the remaining one hundred copies shall be bound in full morocco and distributed through the Department of State to the descendants of Baron von SteubEN and the speakers who took part in said celebration. FEBRUARY 9, 1911 Mr. Cooper of Pennsylvania, from the Committee on Printing, to which was referred the resolution of the House (H. Con. Res. 58) providing for the printing of the pro- ceedings upon the unveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben, reported the same without amendment, accom- panied by a report (No. 2111), which said resolution and report were referred to the House Calendar. 190 Proceedings in Congress 191 The report (No. 21 11) follows: [House Report No. am. Sixty-first Congress, third sessioD] Proceedings at Unveiling ot Statue op Baron von Steuben February 9, 1911.^ — Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union and ordered to be printed Mr. Cooper of Pennsylvania, from the Committee on Printing, submitted the following report (to accompany H. Con. Res. 58): The Committee on Printing, to which was referred House concurrent reso- lution No. 58, providing for the printing of the proceedings upon the im- veiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben, with illustrations, having had the same under consideration, report the resolution back with the recom- mendation that it do pass. By an act approved February 27, 1903, Congress appropriated the sum of $50,000 for the erection of a statue of Gen. von Steuben under the direction of a commission composed of the Secretary of War, the chairman of the Com- mittee on the Library of the Senate, and the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the House of Representatives of the Fifty-seventh Congress. The statue was unveiled in Washington on December 7, 1910, in the presence of the President of the United States, the German ambassador, and many other distinguished guests. Your committee believes this important event should be preserved in history with a suitable memorial volume. The resolution provides that, in addition to 5,000 copies for the Senate and 10,000 for the House of Repre- sentatives, the National German- American Alliance, which took a promi- nent part in the unveiling ceremonies, shall have 2,000 copies for such distri- bution as said alliance may desire to make. The resolution also contains the customary provision for 100 copies to be bound in full morocco for distri- bution to the descendants of Baron von Steuben and the speakers who took part in said celebration. The Public Printer has submitted a statement to the Committee on Printing that the estimated charge for printing and binding 17,100 copies, as required by the resolution, will be $5,460.62, based on 40 pages and 2 half-tone plates. FEBRUARY 21, 1911 The next business on the Calendar for Unanimous Con- sent was House concurrent resolution No. 58. The Clerk read as follows: Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That there shall be printed and bound in the form of eulogies, with accompanying illustrations, 17,100 copies of the proceedings upon the unveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben in Washington, December 7, 1910, of which 5,000 shall be for the use of the Senate, 10,000 for the use of the House of Representatives, 2,000 to be delivered to the National German-American Alliance for such distribution as said alliance may desire to make, and the 192 Statue of Baron von Steuben remaining 100 copies shall be bouad in full morocco and distributed through the Department of State to the descendants of Baron von Steuben and the speakers who took part in said celebration. The Speaker. Is there objection? Mr. Cox of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, reserving the right to object, I would Uke to ask if these reports will be put through the folding room? Mr. BarthoIvDT. Yes, sir. The Speaker. Is there objection? There was no objection. The resolution was agreed to. SENATE FEBRUARY 21, 1911 A message from the House of Representatives, by W. J. Browning, its Chief Clerk, announced that the House had passed a concurrent resolution providing for the printing and binding, in the form of eulogies, of 17,100 copies of the proceedings upon the un veiling of the statue of Baron VON Steuben in Washington, December 7, 1910, etc., in which it requested the concurrence of the Senate. :): :}: ^ ^ ^ Th^ Vice President laid before the Senate the following concurrent resolution of the House of Representatives, which was read and referred to the Committee on Printing: Resolved by the House of Representatives {the Senate concurring). That there shall be printed and bound in the form of eulogies, with accompanying illustrations, 17,100 copies of the proceedings upon the unveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben in Washington, December 7, 1910, of which S,ooo shall be for the use of the Senate, 10,000 for the use of the House of Representatives, 2,000 to be delivered to the National German-American Alliance for such distribution as said alliance may desire to make, and the remaining 100 copies shall be bound in full morocco and distributed through the Department of State to the descendants of Baron voN Steuben and the speakers who took part in said celebration. (Note. — H. Con. Res. No. 58 was not reported back to the Senate by the Committee on Printing in the Sixty-first Congress, and consequently a similar resolution was reintroduced in the Sixty-second Congress.) SIXTY-SECOND CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION [Extracts from the Congressional Record] HOUSE APRIL 11, 1911 A concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 3) providing for the printing of the proceedings upon the unveihng of the statue of Baron von Steuben, introduced by Mr. Bartholdt, of Missouri, and referred to the Commit- tee on Printing. (Note. — H. Con. Res. No. 3 is the same as H. Con. Res. No. 58 of the Sixty-first Congress.) APRIL 27, 1911 Mr. Finley, from the Committee on Printing, to which was referred the concurrent resolution of the House (H. Con. Res. 3) providing for the printing of the proceed- ings upon the imveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben, reported the same without amendment, ac- companied by a report (No. 14), which said bill and report were referred to the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union. The report (No. 14) follows: [House Report No. 14, Sixty-second Congress, first session] Printing Procbedings op Unvehing Statue op Baron von Steuben April 27, 191 1. — Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union and ordered to be printed Mr. Finley, from the Committee on Printing, submitted the following report (to accompany H. Con. Res. 3): The Committee on Printing, to which was referred House concurrent resolution No. 3, providing for the printing of the proceedings upon the tmveiling of the statue of Baron voN Steuben, with illustrations, having had the same under consideration, report the resolution back with the recommendation that it do pass. By an act approved February 27, 1903, Congress appropriated the sum of 150,000 for the erection of a statue of Gen. voN SteubEN, under the di- rection of a commission composed of the Secretary of War, the chairman of the Committee on the Library of the Senate, and the chairman of the 84647°— 14 13 193 194 Statue of Baron von Steuben Committee on the Library of the House of Representatives of the Fifty- seventh Congress. The statue was unveiled in Washington on Decem- ber 7, 1910, in the presence of the President of the United States, the German ambassador, and many other distinguished guests. Your committee believes this important event should be preserved in history with a suitable memorial volume. The resolution provides that, in addition to 5,000 copies for the Senate and 10,000 for the House of Rep- resentatives, the National German- American Alliance, which took a prom- inent part in the unveiling ceremonies, shall have 2,000 copies for such distribution as said alliance may desire to make. The resolution also con- tains the customary provision for 100 copies to be bound in full morocco for distribution to the descendants of Baron von Steuben and the speak- ers who took part in said celebration. The Public Printer has submitted a statement to the Committee on Printing that the estimated charge for printing and binding 17,100 copies, as required by the resolution, will be $5,460.62, based on 40 pages and 2 half-tone plates. AUGUST 7, 1911 The first business on the Calendar for Unanimous Con- sent was House concurrent resolution 3, which the Clerk reported by title. Mr. Mann. Mr. Speaker, can we not have the resolu- tion reported? The Speaker. The Clerk will report the resolution. The Clerk read as follows: House concurrent resolution 3 Resolved by the House of Representatives {the Senate concurring), That there shall be printed and bound in the form of eulogies, with accompanying illustrations, 17,100 copies of the proceedings upon the unveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben in Washington, December 7, 1910, of which 5,000 shall be for the use of the Senate, 10,000 for the use of the House of Representatives, 2,000 to be delivered to the National German-American Alliance for such distribution as said alliance may desire to make, and the remaining 100 copies shall be bound in full morocco and distributed through the Department of State to the descendants of Baron voN Steuben and the speakers who took part in said celebration. The Speaker. Is there objection to the present con- sideration of the resolution reported by the Clerk? [After a pause.] The Chair hears none. The Speaker. The question is on agreeing to the reso- lution. The question was taken, and the resolution was agreed to. Proceedings in Congress 195 SENATE AUGUST 8, 1911 A message from the House of Representatives, by J. C. South, its Chief Clerk, announced that the House had agreed to a concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 3) pro- viding for the printing of 17,100 copies of the proceed- ings upon the unveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben in Washington, D. C, December 7, 1910, in which it requested the concurrence of the Senate. The Vice President laid before the Senate the concur- rent resolution of the House of Representatives (H. Con. Res. 3), which was read and referred to the Committee on Printing. AUGUST 21, 1911 Mr. Smoot, from the Committee on Printing, to which was referred concurrent resolution No. 3 of the House of Representatives, reported it without amendment, and it was considered by tmanimous consent and agreed to. SIXTY-SECOND CONGRESS. SECOND SESSION [Extracts from the Congressional Record] HOUSE DECEMBER 7, 1911 The President of the United States, in his annual mes- sage to Congress on foreign relations (H. Doc. No. 248), stated under the heading " Presentation to Germany of Replica of Von Steuben Statue" (pp. 18 and 19): In pursuance of the act of Congress, approved June 23, 1910, the Secre- tary of State and the Joint Committee on the Library entered into a con- tract with the sculptor, Albert Jaegers, for the execution of a bronze replica of the statue of Gen. vo^f Steuben erected in Washington, for pres- entation to His Majesty the German Emperor and the German nation in recognition of the gift of the statue of Frederick the Great made by the Emperor to the people of the United States. The presentation was made on September 2 last by representatives whom I commissioned as the special mission of this Government for the purpose. The German Emperor has conveyed to me by telegraph, on his own be- half and that of the German people, an expression of appreciative thanks for this action of Congress. FEBRUARY 21, 1912 A concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 39) to amend conciurent resolution passed August 21, 191 1, providing for the printing of the proceedings upon the unveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben, introduced by Mr. Bartholdt, of Missouri, and referred to the Committee on Printing. The resolution (H. Con. Res. 39) follows: [H. Con. Res. 39, Sixty-second Congress, second session] In the House op Representatives, February 21, 1912 Mr. Bartholdt submitted the following concurrent resolution, which was referred to the Committee on Printing and ordered to be printed: Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That the concurrent resolution passed August twenty-first, nineteen hundred and eleven, providing for the printing of the proceedings upon the imveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben in Washington, December seventh, 196 Proceedings in Congress 197 nineteen hundred and ten, be amended by adding the following sentence after the last word thereof: "There shall be included in the same volume, as herein provided for, the proceedings relating to the unveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben in Berlin, September second, nineteen hundred and eleven; and this document shall be compiled and printed under the direction of the Joint Committee on Printing." MARCH 26, 1912 Mr. FiNLBY. Mr. Speaker, I send the following privileged resolution to the Clerk's desk. The Speaker. The Clerk will report the resolution. The Clerk read as follows: House concurrent resolution 39 Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That the concurrent resolution passed August twenty-first, nineteen hundred and eleven, providing for the printing of the proceedings upon the unveiling of the statue of Baron voN Steuben in Washington, December seventh, nine- teen hundred and ten, be amended by adding the following sentence after the last word thereof: "There shall be included in the same volume, as herein provided for, the proceedings relating to the unveiling of the statue of Baron voN Steuben in Berlin, September second, nineteen hundred and eleven; and this document shall be compiled and printed under the direction of the Joint Committee on Printing." Mr. FiNLEY. This is by way of an amendment to a resolution which passed some time ago. Mr. Mann. Mr. Speaker, I ask xmanimous consent that the gentleman from Missouri [Mr. Bartholdt] have leave to extend his remarks in the Record on this subject. Mr. FiNLEY. I did not see the gentleman from Missouri or I would have yielded the floor to him. The Speaker. The gentleman from Illinois asks unani- mous consent that the gentleman from Missouri [Mr. Bartholdt] be permitted to extend his remarks in the Record on this resolution. Is there objection? [After a pause.] The Chair hears none, and it is so ordered. The question was taken, and the concurrent resolution was agreed to. The report (No. 448) on H. Con. Res. 39 follows: 198 Statue of Baron von Steuben [House Report No. 448, Sixty-second Congress, second session] Publication op Proceedings op UnTOiung op Statue op Baron von Steuben March 26, 1912. — Ordered to be printed Mr. Finley, from the Committee on Printing, submitted the following report (to accompany H. Con. Res. 39): The Committee on Printing, having had under consideration the House concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 39) to amend the concurrent resolution passed August 21, 1911, providing for the printing of the proceedings upon the unveiling of the statue of Baron von Steuben, reports the same back to the House with the recommendation that the resolution be agreed to. SENATE MARCH 27, 1912 A message from the House of Representatives, by D. K. Hempstead, its em-oUing clerk, annotmced that the House had passed a concurrent resolution (No. 39) amending the concurrent resolution passed August 21, 191 1, providing for the printing of the proceedings upon the unveiUng of the statue of Baron von Steuben in Washington, December 7, 1910, etc., in which it requested the concurrence of the Senate. MARCH 28, 1912 The Vice President laid before the Senate concurrent resolution No. 39 of the House of Representatives, which was read and referred to the Committee on Printing. APRIL 2, 1912 Mr. Smoot, from the Committee on Printing, to which was referred House concurrent resolution No. 39, reported it without amendment, and it was considered by unani- mous consent and agreed to. HOUSE AUGUST S, 1912 Under leave to print, Mr. Mann, of Illinois, inserted in the Record an account of the presentation of a replica of the Steuben Monument to Emperor William and of the unveiling ceremonies at Berlin on September 2, 191 1. (See pp. 69-81 for this account.) MEMORIALS OF STEUBEN BTIRIAL PLACE PORTRAITS AND RELICS STEUBEN'S BURIAL PLACE In a lonely grave, long neglected and almost forgotten amid the wild woods of Oneida County, N. Y., lie the re- mains of Baron von Steuben, aid-de-camp to Frederick the Great and Inspector General under Washington. It is located in the town of Steuben near Remsen, N. Y. No such pomp and ceremony as were displayed at the unveil- ing of the monuments erected to his memory in the Capital of his adopted coimtry and in the capital of his native land marked the burial of this hero of two continents. Quietly and modestly as he had hved after the close of the Revolutionary War, so was he laid to rest in the forest that surrounded his log-cabin home on the estate presented to him by the State of New York, where his last days were spent with a few friends and comrades in arms. Steuben had made detailed provision as to the distribu- tion of his property and war trophies and the manner of his burial in his last will and testament,' which reads as follows: I, Frbdbrick WauAM Baron dE Steuben of the City and State of New York do make this my last will and testament Sufficient reasons having determined me to exclude my relations in Europe from any participation in my estate in America and to adopt my Friends and former Aid De Camps Benjamin Walker and William North as my children and make them sole devisees of all my estates therein, except as hereinafterwards is otherwise disposed of in consequence thereof. I bequeath to the said Benjamin Walker the sum of Three Thousand dollars, and the Gold hilted sword given to me by Congress To the said William North I bequeath my silver hilted sword and the gold box given me by the City of New York To John I. Mulligan I bequeath the whole of my Library, Maps and Charts, and the sum of Two Thousand five hundred Dollars to complete it. And to each of my Servants living with me at the time of my decease one year's wages and besides this to my valet de chambre all my wearing apparel but I do hereby declare that those legacies to my Servants are on the following conditions; that on my decease they do not permit any person to touch my Body, nor even to change the shirt, in which I shall die, but that they wrap me up in my old Military Cloak and in twenty -four homrs after my Decease 1 The original of Steubbn's will is among the "Steuben Papers" in the New York Historical Society, 170 Central Park West, New York City. BARON STEUBEN'S GRAVE AND MONUMENT, In the town of Steuben, Oneida County, N. Y, Steuben's Burial Place 203 Monday (Aug.) 9th (1802) — * * * Spent a few moments at the grave of the enterprising Steubbn. He lies in a thick Swamp, under a small Hem- lock, without a monument. Alas! where is the sensibility of his heirs — or of the Americans? « » * » » Steuben. This patent is on the height of land between ye Mohawk and the Black river — some of the headwaters of both are ih this town. Standing on a hill, near the center of the town, we have an extensive prospect on 3 sides; — to the N.W., about 35 miles, we see the Oneida Lake — south we see ye settlements of New Hartford and Clinton — Clinton Academy is in full view. We can here see the tops of the Catskill mountains — S. E. & S. W. the tops. It is said that upon ye tops of ye trees Ontario is in sight. * * * Here I find the grave of the once active and enterprising Steuben. He lies in a swamp, under a Hemlock, with a bier standing over the grave, and a few rough boards nailed to some trees to keep ye cattle off. Alas! what is man! that the great Steuben should be suffered to lie in such a place — and without a decent monument. A few rods from this swamp, we find the place of his former residence — of which I have taken a rough drawing. This is a very healthful situation. The house faces the south — and there is a gradual descent for about 80 rods, and an opening about 50 rods wide. The seat of this great man was not indeed a palace, nor what we should suppose woidd afford contentment to the mind of an enterprising nobleman: It consists of 2 log houses — one at the end of the other — containing in the whole 3 rooms — ^unsealed. It is, however, a decent log house. The Baron died in a lit of palsy. The picture of Baron Steuben's residence which accom- panies this sketch was reproduced from the Rev. John Taylor's drawing, as referred to in his journal. The plate was loaned for this publication by the Oneida Historical Society of Utica, N. Y., which also generously contributed the plate of the monument over Steuben's grave and that of Steuben's service sword. Nothing now exists of Steuben's house. Even his body was not permitted to remain long in the grave he had chosen for his earthly resting place. Some years after his burial under the favorite hemlock tree, a country road was built across Steuben's grave and his remains had to be taken up and reinterred in another part of the woods. This second burial place was selected by Maj. Benjamin "Walker, an aid-de-camp to Steuben, who gave one of the Welsh Baptist societies in the vicinity a lease to 50 acres of land, of which the 5 acres of the woodland burial place were a part, the only rent to be paid for which was the keeping of the 5 acres fenced forever and uncleared, and that no cattle 204 Statue of Baron von Stetiben or other animals should be permitted therein. The second grave was suitably marked with a stone and inscription. Kapp, in his history of Steuben, published in 1859, thus tells of a visit to Steuben's grave (pp. 603-604) : On the lath of June, 1857, we made a pilgrimage to the old soldier's grave. In Remsen we visited Steuben's last surviving servant, Lemuel Hough, who very minutely described the way to the place. The country through which we passed is mountainous. Our road led over hills, through valleys and fine timberlands, fresh with the verdure of spring. The scenery was generally monotonous and entirely removed from the bustle and tumult of the world. The last rough house which we passed was a schoolhouse. Stout and healthy boys came out to meet us, evidently surprised at seeing strange-looking faces in this wilderness. The pretty, yoimg girl, however, that kept the school knew nothing of Steuben's grave. An old man finally directed us. "In that thick wood," said he, "you will find the grave," pointing eastward with his hand. We fastened our horses, and climbing over fences, jumping ditches, and wading through underbrush, we finally reached the spot. There, on the slope of a little hill, at the foot of which a small, limpid brook runs, the remains of Steuben quietly repose. A column of stones, two or three feet in height, at each comer of the grave, upon which formerly rested a table of limestone, compose his simple mon- ument. It is now becoming more and more dilapidated, and the founda- tion having given way, nothing remains but the tablet and a pile of stones, which originally supported it. The tablet is about 8 feet by 4, and nearly a foot in thickness, and if kept in its place will withstand the rav- ages of centuries, but if not speedily repaired will fall to pieces from the influence of the weather. It bears the inscription: Major General Frederick William Augustus Baron de Steuben. It was a good and poetical idea of Walker to have selected this quiet spot for the resting place of his friend. The tall beech trees, under whose shade he loved to sit in the evening of his life, extend their wide-spreading arms over the grave and keep watch over the old hero. Fragrant flowers, with double vigor rising from the moldering vegetation, form a lovely wreath around the tomb. All dispute and trouble, all hatred and envy of daily life, are shut out from this hallowed spot, which in its simplicity and seclu- sion presents a strong contrast with the stirring and prominent career of him whose ashes it contains. Kapp thus describes the Steuben memorial tablet which Col. North placed in the German Reformed Church of New York City: Col. William North caused a neat mural monument to be erected in Steu- ben's memory upon the walls of the German Reformed Church, then under the charge of John D. Gross, and situated in Nassau Street, between John Street and Maiden Lane, in New York City. When a Baptist society sub- sequently got possession of that church, they courteously allowed the monu- STEUBEN'S COAT OF ARMS. STEUBEN MEMORIAL TABLET, Placed in the German Reformed Church of New York City, by his aid, Coi. William North. Steuben's Burial Place 205 ment to be taken down and carried to the new church of the Germans in Forsyth Street. There we foimd it, on the right of the pulpit, well pre- served and fastened into the wall. Lossing says that when visiting that church he saw the monument in separate pieces, lying amongst the rub- bish, in a small lumber room of the church, disfigured and mutilated. On inquiring we were informed that the monument was kept in this condi- tion on account of a lawsuit which was pending with regard to the property of the congregation in their church. But after that suit had been decided in favor of the German Reformed Church, the first care of its minister, Mr. Abraham Berky, was to put North's monument in its proper place, and it is due to the exertions of this gentleman that the city of New York can boast of this valuable historical monument.' The slab, of obelisk form, and the square frame, are of bluish, clouded marble. The lower urn has upon it a representation of the Order of Fidelity. The following is the inscription, from the pen of Col. North: sacred to the memory of FRED*: WILL'" AUG" BARON STEUBEN, a German Knight of the Order of Fidelity; Aid-de-camp to Frederick the Great, King of Prussia; Major-General & Inspector General in the Revolutionary War. Esteemed, respected and supported by Washington, he gave military Skill & Discipline to the Citizen-Soldiers; who, (fulfilling the Decrees of Heaven,) achieved the Independence of the United States. The highly polished manners of the Baron were graced by the most noble feelings of the heart. His hand, "open as day for melting Charity," closed only in the strong grasp of Death. This Memorial is inscribed by an American who had the honor to be his Aid-de-Camp, the happiness to be his Friend. Ob. 1795.= 1 The Steuben memorial tablet erected by his aid-de-camp. Col. William North, now occupies a prominent place in the German Evangelical Reformed Church at 355 East Sixty-eighth Street, New York City. It was installed first, as Kapp relates, in the original chiuch building of that denomination in Nassau Street on October 2, 1812. After twdve years, the tablet was moved to the Forsyth Street church, where it remained for thirty-seven years. Then it was removed to Norfolk Street when a new chturch was erected in that location, and remained on the walls of the Norfolk Street church for thirty-six years. The next move was to its present location in, the East Sixty-eighth Street church, where the tablet has been for the last sixteen years. A photo- graph of the tablet was made especially for this document by the courtesy of Rev. Julius Jaeger, pastor of the German Evangelical Reformed Church, which treasures this memorial of the great German drillmaster. Steuben was a member of the consistory of the German Reformed Church when it was located in Nassau Street and chairman of its board of trustees on June 20, 1785, according to the church records. Several years ago the church celebrated its one himdred and fiftieth anniversary and issued a pamphlet giving its complete history. « The date of Steuben's death as inscribed on the memorial tablet is in error, Steuben died November 28, 1794- 2o6 Stattie of Baron von Steuben In December, 1856, the St. Charles Democrat, of Missouri, a German country paper, published an appeal from Mr. Theodore Brufere to the Ger- mans of the United States for the erection of a monument in honor of Steubbn. This appeal went the round of the Americo-German press and caused a gen- eral manifestation of the appreciation in which the Germans in the United States hold Steubbn's memory. In consequence of that address committees were appointed at several places to raise funds for a monument. Concerts and theatrical representations were given for the same purpose, and the German "Turner" and militia companies especially seemed to take a great interest in the realization of the plan. But whether it was that the wealthier Germans did not participate in the enthusiasm of their fellow countrymen or that the management was not confined to proper hands, the whole matter was gradually dropped, and although there are some five or six thousand dollars collected there is no present appearance that the project will ever be carried out. The project of erecting a suitable monument to mark the grave of SteubEN was more successful, however, than appeared to Kapp when he was writing his "Life of Steu- ben" in 1858. In an address on Baron Steuben before the Oneida Historical Society, April 11, 1910, Rev. Dana W. Bigelow, D. D., of Utica, N. Y., says of the movement to erect a monument over the grave of Steuben: In 1856 German newspapers and societies called for funds for a monu- ment, and some thousands of dollars were secured. Not until 1870, however, was the plan carried out. Ex-Gov. Horatio Seymour gave encouragement and inspiration to the movement and the German Society of New York, Steuben Schuetzen, responded with enthusiasm. By their own generous offerings the fund of 1856 was supplemented and to this was added an ap- propriation by the State. The corner stone of the monument was laid June i, 1870, in the presence of thousands of people. Ex-Gov. Seymour presided, and after an eloquent address laid the stone with these words: " In behalf of our German fellow citizens, in behalf of the citizens of the State of New York, in behalf of the whole American people, who desire that the memory of this great man shall never pass away, since his Revolutionary acts were instrumental in laying the comer stone of our liberties, I now de- posit the comer stone of this monument, erected in honor of the memory of Baron Frederick Wn,LiAM Steuben. May God grant that it will ever serve to remind the American people of the great service which he per- formed in their cause, which he adopted as his own. May God grant that it may always be treasured as sacredly as we treasure his memory to-day." An address was given by Mr. Sixtus Karl Kapfi in behalf of the New York German Society, who were present in large numbers. An ode was sung by the Liederkranz Society of New York. Maj. Gen. Franz Sigel, Steuben's Burial Place 207 received with great applause, made an address in German. Other speak- ers also took part with, appropriate speeches. Then the assemblage dispersed and the forest was left with its hero asleep amid the maples and beeches and wild flowers. The monument, plain but massive, was finished in due time. The entrance to the burial groimd is now marked by handsome pillars, and visitors who pass these find a trail that leads into the woodland to the tomb. At the entrance one will pause to look over a far-reaching land- scape. The view takes in the region of the Mohawk Valley, now one of the thoroughfares of the great Nation whose liberties were secured by men of the Revolutionary era. In this valley is the home of citizens who espe- cially will cherish in grateful remembrance the name Steuben. In recent years the Oneida Historical Society, of Utica, N. Y., and the Baron Steuben Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, of Bath, N. Y., have cooper- ated in the restoration and care of the montunent which marks the grave of Steuben. An ofi&cial bronze marker of the Daughters of the American Revolution has been placed on the grave by the Baron Steuben Chapter. Upon the completion of its patriotic work the Oneida His- torical Society and the Daughters of the American Revolution held commemorative exercises at the grave of the grand old German hero they thus chose to honor. PORTRAITS AND RELICS OF STEUBEN At the New York City celebration of the centennial of Washington's inauguration as the first President of the United States, a loan exhibition was made of many interest- ing portraits and relics of the historic personages who par- ticipated in the first inaugural ceremonies. Baron SteubEN, by reason of his distinguished army service, occupied a prominent position on the balcony of Federal Hall near Washington when he became the head of the new Nation. Accordingly, the centennial committee gave a conspicuous place to the Steuben portraits and relics in the New York exhibition. Concerning the portraits of Steuben, "The History of the Centennial Celebration of the Inauguration of George Washington as First President of the United States," edited by Clarence Winthrop Bowen, Ph. D., secre- tary of the pubhcation committee, says: Among the portraits of Baron DB StBubEN, who stood by Washington when he was inaugurated, (Pierre Eugfene) du Simiti^e made, in Philadelphia, a drawing from life.' The city of Philadelphia owns a portrait of Steuben, by C. W. Peale, which is deposited in Independence Hall (old Statehouse). This portrait was in Peale's Museum in Philadelphia in 1795 and was sold at the Peale sale in 1854. There is another portrait by C. W. Peale, deposited in the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, which formerly belonged to Richard Peters. John Trumbull also represents SteubEn in the historical painting entitled "Surrender of Comwallis," which is owned by Yale University, a replica of which is in the Capitol at Washington. Ralph Earle painted a portrait of Baron de Steuben, which was exhibited in the loan exhibition of 1889 (No. 194), and belongs to Mrs. F. B. Austin, of New York, who inherited the same from her great-grandfather, Maj. William North, Steuben's aid-de-camp. This portrait was given by the baron to Maj. North. In addition to the badge of the Society of the Cincinnati, Baron de Steuben is represented in the Earle portrait as wearing a decoration * received in the service of Frederick the Great. 1 An engraving made in 1783 by B. Reading after the du Simitl&re life drawing and owned by Gen. James Grant Wilson, of New York, was exhibited at the centennial celebration in New York. * " Order of Fidelity," bestowed by the Margrave of Baden. 84647°— 14 14 209 2IO Statue of Baron von Steuben A copy of the Earle portrait of Steuben is owned by the city of New York and is deposited in the governor's room, city hall. The copyist has omitted certain details in the dress, including the watch chain, and also the scenery in the backgroimd, for which Earle 's portraits are noted. The Earle portrait was engraved for Irving 's Life of Washington. It is also stated that the artist R. E. Pine had a portrait of Baron DE Steuben among his Distinguished Heads (Book of the Artists, by Henry T. Tuck- erman). Another portrait of Baron de Steuben is reproduced in the book entitled " The Society of the Cincinnati in New York, " by John Schuyler, secretary of the New York State Society. Another painting of Steuben by Ralph Earle is owned by Hon. George W. Featherstonebaugh, of Schenectady, N. Y. It was painted for the Hon. James Duane, of New York, while Steuben was living in that city in 1 786. Mr. Duane, as mayor of the city of New York, had presented Baron STEUBEN with the freedom of that municipaUty. Mr. Featherstonebaugh inherited the painting as the great- grandson of Mr. Duane. This portrait is similar to that in the possession of Mrs. Austin. A copy of the Featherstone- baugh painting may be seen in the History of the North Carolina Society of the Cincinnati, by Brig. Gen. Charles Lukens Davis, United States Army, retired. It shows Steuben wearing the Order of the Cincinnati on his left lapel and the Order of Fidelity on the left breast of his coat and also suspended by a ribbon around his neck as in the Austin painting. The cross of the order " De la Fidelity " was be- stowed on Steuben by the Margrave of Baden at Carlsruhe on May 28, 1769. OWNED BY MRS. FRANCIS B. AUSTIN, SUMMIT, N. J. The photogravure of Baron Steuben, facing page 208, was made from an original life-sized painting (three-fourths length) in the possession of Mrs. Francis B. Austin, now of Summit, N. J., who kindly furnished the photographs of her Steuben relics for this document. The painting and reUcs have been treasured by the North family and its descendants ever since they were given by Baron Steuben to his favorite ,• •aS* • ^ L^! ?^.. i^'S-r' .i.v Gold snuffbox presented by the city of New York. Knee buckle set with brilliants. Gold v\/atcli and chain. BTCUEEN RELICS IN THE POSSESSION O F M RS. FRA N C I S B. A UST I N. O F SU M M IT, TJ . J. % Gold-headed cane. (Mrs, Francis B. Au',tin.) Service sword and scabbard. (Oneida Historical Society, Utica, N. Y,) blEUBEN'S SWORUS ANU CANE. Dress sword. (Mrs. Francis B. Austin,) Portraits and Relics of Steuben 211 aid-de-camp, Col. William North, the great-grandfather of Mrs. Austin, to whom they came in the following line: Col. William North to his son, William Augustus Steuben North, to his daughter, Mrs. Mary (North) Weston, to her daughter, Mrs. Mary (Weston) Austin. In addition to the painting, Mrs. Austin also has the following Steuben relics, which are shown on the plates facing pages 210 and 211 : Dress sword bequeathed by Baron Steuben to his aid-de- camp, Col. William North. (See copy of wiU, p. 201.) Ck)ld-headed cane carried by Steuben and presented to Col. North. Pair of knee buckles set with handsome brilliants, worn by Baron Steuben on state occasions. Gold watch and chain carried by Steuben for many years. Presented to Miss North, aimt of Mrs. Austin, by the Ger- mans of New York dviring a celebration of the German and French societies about 1876. Ck)ld snuffbox presented to Baron Steuben "with the freedom of the city of New York " on October 11, 1784,^ and * The following document accompanying the gold snuff box presented the freedom of the City of New York to Baron Sibuben: Cmr OF New York, ss. By James Duane, Esauire Mayor and the Recorder Aldermen and Assistants of the City of New York in Common Council convened To all people to whom these presents shall come or concern Greeting Whereas the honorable Frederick William Baron de Stubcn, Major General and Inspector General of the Annies of the United States of America, among other Individuals who have dis- tinguished themselves in our happy Revolution, hath rendered important Services, and this country is more especially indebted to his well directed Efforts for the Introduction of that System into our Military Establishment on which the Reputation and Success of our Arms so much depended; the Battle of Monmouth soon after the Commencement of his Labours and every subsequent Event of the late War being memorable Proofs of the Utility of that System in the Field; and the Records of Congress bearing Testimony in how great a Degree it contributed to promote the Interests of National Economy Now therefore Know Ye that We being mindful of the distinguished Merit of the said Baron de Stuben — Have received and admitted and by these Presents Bo receive and admit the said Baron de Stuben to be a Freeman of the said city within the Limits of which he hath chosen his Residence, to hold exercise and enjoy all the Privi- leges Advantages and Inmiunities to the Freedom of the said City inddent and appertaining as a public mark of the Sense We entertain of his Services of our Esteem for him personally and of the Interest We take in his Happiness — In Testimony whereof We have caused the public Seal of the said City to be hereiuito affixed and these Presents to be enclosed in a Golden Box, Wit- ness James Duane Esquire Mayor of the said City this eleventh Day of October in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty four and of the Independence of the State of New York the ninth. JAS DUANE. By order of the Common Council. RoBi Benson Clk 212 Statue of Baron von Steuben bequeathed by him to Col. Nollh. Inscribed "Frederick Wm. Baron dE Steuben to William North to William Augustus Steuben North." (See Steuben's will, p. 201.) OWNED BY THE ONEIDA HISTORICAL SOCIETY, UTICA, N. Y. The following relics of Baron von Steuben are in the possession of the Oneida Historical Society and exhib- ited in its home, the Munson-Williams Memorial, at Utica, N. Y.: Steuben's service sword. (See plate facing p. 211.) Two silver gravy bowls used by the baron. Army trunk, large leather covered. Hunting knife. Oil painting of Baron von Steuben. Copy of the portrait by Ralph Earle. The service sword owned by the Oneida Historical So- ciety was given by Steuben to his aid, Maj. Benjamin Walker, whose daughter presented it to Edmtmd A. Wet- more, of Utica. Mr. Wetmore left it to his children, and the survivors, Edmund W. Wetmore of New York City and Mrs. Mary B. (John P.) Gray of Utica, presented it to the Oneida Historical Society in 1897. (See illustration facing p. 211.) Neither this sword nor that in the possession of Mrs. Austin answers the description of the sword which Congress presented to Baron Steuben and which he bequeathed to Maj. Walker. Efforts to locate the congressional sword as described on page 112 have not been successful. OWNED BY THE SOCIETY OP THE CINCINNATI The New York State Society of the Cincinnati, of which Steuben was president from 1786 to 1790, possesses many interesting letters and documents written by SteubEN. This society still has the original silk banner of blue and white with the American Army Eagle in the field designed by Steuben in 1786, and his plan for the initiation of members. ■"..TEiJEEJJ'S ARf.lY LIQUOR CASE AfID GLASSES, In the possession of Mr. James Sweeney Thon-ipson, of hJorth Tonawanda, N. Y. Facsimile of Steuben's signature to letter to Congress re- signing his commission as Inspector General of tlie Con- tinental Army, March. 20, 1784. Portraits and Relics of Steuben 213 Secretary General Asa Bird Gardiner, of the Society of the Cincinnati, also has in his official custody numerous documents written by Steuben relating to that organiza- tion, of which he was one of the founders and the presiding officer at its organization meeting, May 13, 1783, in the Verplanck Mansion, Steuben's headquarters, which still stands on the east bank of the Hudson River, near Fishkill. OWNED BY MR. JAMES SWEENEY THOMPSON, NORTH TONAWANDA, N. Y. A liquor case, which was part of Steuben's camp equip- ment during the Revolutionary War, is owned now by Mr. James Sweeney Thompson, of North Tonawanda, N. Y., who kindly ftirnished the photographs of the case and its glasses for the illustration facing page 212. Baron SteubEn gave the case at his death to his aid. Col. Walker, who in turn presented it to Col. William Williams, of Utica, N. Y. In 1839 the case was given to Mr. James Sweeney, of Tona- wanda, N. Y., and now is in the possession of Mr. Sweeney's grandson. OWNED BY THE NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY The New York Historical Society, 170 Central Park, West, New York City, has 16 volumes of "The Steuben Papers," 1 778-1 784, consisting of letters to Steuben, with copies of letters by Steuben, also Army returns, etc. In addition, the society has a miscellaneous collection of "Steuben Papers," which Kapp used in writing his life of Steuben. OWNED BY THE NATIONAIv MUSEUM, WASHINGTON The United States National Museum in Washington has the following reminders of Steuben: A bronze medal, 2 inches in diameter, bearing on the obverse a bust of SteubEN and the inscription "Major General Baron Steuben." Below this is inscribed the maker's name, "F. B. Smith, N. Y." The reverse con- 214 Statue of Baron von Steuben tains the inscription, "Born Nov. 15, 1730, at Magdeburg on the Elbe. Died Nov. 28, 1794, at Steubenville, N. Y." The Museum has no information as to the history of this medal. A small photographic reproduction of a painting of Baron Steuben by Ralph Earle. A small engraved portrait of Baron Steuben published by H. B. Hall & Sons, New York. STEUBEN'S COAT OF ARMS The coat of arms of the Steuben family is described as follows in Kapp's life of Steuben : An impailed shield, azure (blue) and argent (silver), with a bend over all gules (red); the crest, stu-mounting a military casque, is two elephant-trunks, the one on the dexter (right-hand) argent and gules, the sinister (left-hand) gules and azure. Kjieschke, in his "Neues allgemeines Deutsches Adels- Lexicon," volume 9, page 33, also gives a similar description of the coat of arms borne by the Prussian branch of the Steuben family, of which the Baron was a member. The illustration facing page 204 shows the Steuben coat of arms as here described. BIBLIOGRAPHY LIBRARY OF CONGRESS BIBLIOGRAPHY OF BARON VON STEUBEN By H. H. B. Meyer, Chief Bibliographer, Library of Congress Note. — Concerning the manuscripts of Baron von Steuben the follow- ing statement is made by Winsor (v. 8, p. 447-448): "The papers of Baron Steuben (about 3,000 pieces) are in the library of the New York Historical Society. Sparks had a portion of them copied in 1827, beginning in 1778 and going through the war, and these copies are now among the Sparks MSS." Some of Steuben's letters are to be found among the papers of Meshech Weare in the possession of the Massachusetts Historical Society. An impor- tant letter giving a statement of the inducements held out to his coming to America is among the papers of A. S. Osborne, of Auburn, N. Y. Such of the general's letters as have appeared in print are listed below under his name (items Nos. 69-72, inc.). Steuben's military Regulations are listed under items Nos. 74-80. 1. Adams, Samuel. The writings of Samuel Adams. Coll. and ed. by • Harry A. Cushing. New York, G. P. Putnam's Sons, 1904-1908. 4 v. 8vo. Baron Steuben: v. 4, p. 7, 10, 39. E302.A31, v. 4 2. American military biography; containing the lives and characters of the officers of the revolution, who were most distinguished in achieving our national independence . . . Pub. for B. S. John- son. Cincinnati, printed at the Chronicle Office, 1834. xxxn, 615 p. 8vo. "Baron de Steuben": p. 606-^15. E206.AS4 3. Bancroft, George. History of the United States from the discovery of the American continent. Boston, Little, Brown & Co., 1859-75. 10 V. 8vo. "Winter-quarters at Valley Forge, November, 1777-April, 1778": V. 9, p. 452-472- See especially pages 469-472. E178.B22, v. 9 4. Baron Frederick William Augustus Henry Ferdinand von Steuben. (In Encyclopaedia Britannica. nth ed. New York, igii. 4to. v. 25, p. 904-905.) AES.E36, V. 25 5. Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben. (In New international encyclopsedia. New York, 1909. 8vo. v. 18, p. 562-563.) AE5.N55, v. 18 6. Baron Steuben's account of his transactions in Virginia [to Richard Peters]. Historical magazine, October, i860, v. 4:301-303. E171.H64, V. 4 7. Bigelow, Rev. Dana W. Baron Steuben, an address before the Oneida historical society, April 11, 1910. Utica, N. Y., Oneida historical society, year book No. 11, 1910, p. xv-xxv. 217 2i8 Statue of Baron von Steuben 8. Bittinger, Lucy F. The Germans in colonial times. Philadelphia, J. B. Lippincott Co., igoi. 314 p. i2mo. "List of works consulted": p. 300-305. Baron von Steuben: p. 241-274. E184.G3B4 9. Bolton, Charles K. The private soldier under Washington. New York, C. Scribner's Sons, 1902. 258 p. Svo. Baron Steuben: p. 33-34, in. E255.B69 10. Bosse, Georg von. Das deutsche Element in den Vereinigten Staaten unter besonderer Beriicksichtigung seines politischen, ethischen, sozialen und erzieherischen Einflusses. Stuttgart, Chr. Belsersche Verlagsbuchhandlung, 1908. 480 p. 8vo. Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben: p. 90-91. E184.G3B6S 11. Bowen, Francis. Life of Baron Steuben. (In Sparks, Jared, ed. Library of American biography. Boston, 1838. i6mo. V. 9, p. 5-88.) E176.S81, v. 9 12. Buttre, Lillian C. The American portrait gallery. New York, J. C. Buttre, 1879. 2 V. 4to. "Frederick William von Steuben": v. 2, p. 81-82. E176.B99, V. 2 13. Canitz, (von Steuben) Hauptmannin von. Authentische Fami- lien-Nachrichten von dem N. A. Generalmajor Fr. Wilh. von Steuben. (In Hausen, K. R. Staats-Materialien. Dessau, 1783-4. St. 6. S. 635-640.) The reference to these reminiscences by the general's sister is taken from Ebeling's Nachrichten, item no. ig below. 14. Carrington, Henry B. Battles of the American revolution. 1775-1781. Historical and military criticism. New York, Chicago, A. S. Barnes & Co. [1888]. 712 p. 8vo. See index under Steuben, Fredk. Wm. Augustus, de, Baron, Maj. Genl. E241.A1C4 15. Clayton, W. Woodford. History of Steuben County, New York, with illustrations and biographical sketches of some of its prominent men and pioneers. Philadelphia, Lewis, Peck & Co., 1879. 460 p. F127.S8C6 16. Cronau, Rudolf. Drei Jahrhunderte deutschen Ird, 1823. 603 p. 8vo. "Frederick William Augustus Baron de Steuben": p. 517-531. E275-T3S 87. Tower, Charlemagne. The Marquis de La Fayette in the American revolution. Philadelphia, J. B. Lippincott Co., 1895. 2 v. 8vo. Consult index under Steuben. E207.L2T8 88. Trevelyan, Sir George O. The American revolution. New ed. New York, Longmans, Green & Co., 1905. 3 v. 8vo. See index under Steuben, Baron von. E208.T83 89. Trumbull, Jonathan. The Trumbull papers, pt. 1-4. (In Massachusetts historical society. Collections. Boston, 1885- 1902. 8vo. ser. 5, v. 9-10; ser. 7, v. 2-3.) Baron Steuben : See index, v. 10. F61.M41, ser. 5, V. 9-10; ser. 7, v. 2-3 90. United German societies of the District of Columbia. Souvenir program, unveiling of the Steuben monument, Washington, D. C, December 7, 1910. [Washington, The Camahan press, 1910.] 19 p. 8vo. 91. United States. Continental congress. Journals of the Continental con- gress, 1774-1789. Ed. by Worthington C. Ford [and Gaillard Hunt]. Washington, Govt, print, off., 1904-1912. 21 v. 4to. See index of vols. 12, 18 and 21 under Steuben. J10.A5, 1904, v. 12, 18, 21 92. Resolved that Baron Steuben be appointed to the office of inspector-general, Tuesday, May 5, 1778. (In its Journals of the American congress, from 1774 to 1788. Washington, 1823. 8vo. v. ^, p. 539.) See also Journals of the Continental congress, Washington, 1908, v. II, p. 465. J10.A5, 1904, v. II 93. Virginia. Calendar of Virginia state papers and other manuscripts . . . preserved in the Capitol at Richmond. Richmond, 1875-93. n v. 4to. Baron von Steuben: v. 2, p. 2, 3, 43, 46, 50, 66, 666. F226.V82, V. -^ 94- governor, 1781. (ThomasNelson.) Letters of Thomas Nelson, jr. Richmond, Virginia historical society, 1874. 71 p. 4to. (Pub- lications of the Virginia historical society. New series, no. i.) The letters, which include all those of Governor Nelson that could be found in the archives of the State, relate chiefly to the Yorktown campaign of 1781, and are here published for the first time. Of interest in connection with the Virginia cam- paign of 1780-178 1. F221.V83S 95. Von dem N-Amerikan-General von Steuben. (In Stats-Anzeigen. Gottingen, 1783. i2mo. v. 5, no. 17, p. 59-60.) Brief recollections by former acquaintances in Hamburg and Silesia. D1.S8, v. 5 84647°— 14 15 226 Statue of Baron von Steuben 96. Washington, George. The writings of George Washington; being his correspondence, addresses, messages, and other papers, official and private. By Jared Sparks. New York, Harper & Bros., 1847. 12 v. 8vo. Baron Steuben: v. 5, p. 349-350, 526-528. E302.W31, v. 5 97. The writings of George Washington. Collected and edited by Worthington C. Ford. New York, G. P. Putnam's Sons, 1889-1903. 14 V. 8vo. See index under Steuben. 98. Wells, William V. The life and public services of Samuel Adams, being a narrative of his acts and opinions, and of his agency in producing and forwarding the American revolution. Boston, Little, Brown & Co., 1865. 3 V. 8vo. Baron von Steuben: See v. 3, chap. 47. E207.A2W4, v. 3 99. Where Baron Steuben was buried. (In New England historical and genealogical register, 1862. Albany, 1862. 8vo. V. 16, p. 201-202.) F1.N56, V. 16 100. Wilson, Woodrow. A history of the American people. New York, Harper & Bros., 1903. 5 v. 8vo. Baron Steuben: v. 2, p. 284, 315. E178.W77, v. 2 loi. Winsor, Justin. Calendar of the Sparks manuscripts in Harvard college library. Cambridge, Mass., issued by the Library of Harvard Uni- versity, 1889. 88 p. 8vo. (Libraryof Harvard University. Biblio- graphical contributions, no. 22.) Papers of Baron Steuben, no. xv, p. 9-10. Z6621.H33SP 102. Narrative and critical history of America. New York, Hough- ton, Mifflin & Co., 1884-1889. 8 v. 4to. See index under Steuben, Baron, in v. 6, 7, and 8. Ei8.W76,v.6-8 103. The reader's handbook on the American revolution, 1761-1783. Boston, Houghton, Osgood & Co., 1880. 328 p. 8vo. See index under Steuben. E206.W8 104. Zuverlassige Nachrichten von dem Amerikanischen General von Steuben. Journal von und fiir Deutschland, August-September, 1784, V. 2: 84-88. AP3o.j7,v.2 INDEX By the Office of the Supermtendent of Documents, Govermnent Frinting Office. Page Addresses at unveilmg of monument, Washington, D. C. : Bartiioldt, Hon. Richard (of Missotiri) 19-28 Bemstorff, Count Johann Heinrich von 43-4S Hexamer, Dr. Charles J 29-41 Taft, William Howard (President of the United States) 49-51 Addresses at unveiling of replica, Potsdam, Germany: Bartholdt, Hon. Richard (of Missouri) 73-74 German Emperor 74-75 Albany, N. Y., Steuben tendered freedom of city 26 Allied German Singers of New York, serenade to Envoy Bartholdt .... 71 American independence, achievement of 20 American Revolution, events leading to 29 Appropriations : For bronze replica of Steuben Statue 69, 174, 176, 178, 185-189 For Steuben Statue 9, 156-157, 16&-167, 168, 170, 172-173, 178-183, 185, 191, 193 Army regulations: Congress orders observance of 93-94 Payment to Steuben for compiling 95-97 Steuben the compiler of 23, 112, 148 Austin, Mrs. Francis B., Steuben relics in possession of 210-212 Banquets: American envoys presenting replica to German Emperor — Entertainment in Germany 75-77 Reception upon return to United States 78 Columbia Tumverein 63-64 German- American societies 63 Order of the Cincinnati 59-61 United German Alliance Committee 6i-6a Washington Kriegerbund 62-63 Bartholdt, Hon. Richard (of Missouri) : Addresses at unveiling ceremonies — At Potsdam, Germany 73-74 At Washington, D. C 19-28 Bills introduced in Congress for erection of Steuben Statue and replica 136, 171 Entertainment in Germany 75-78 Farewell reception on steamer George Washington 70 Presentation of bronze replica to German Emperor 70, 73-75 Remarks in Congress on Steuben and bills relating to statue . . . 155-156, i74-i77> 181-185 227 228 Index Page Benediction at unveiling ceremonies in Washington, D. C, by Rev. William T. Russell, D. D 52 Bemstorff, Count Johann Heinrich von, address at unveiling ceremo- nies in Washington, D. C 43-4S Bigelow, Rev. D. W., extract from address before Oneida Historical Society on movement to erect monument over Steuben's grave . . . 206-207 Chorus at unveiling ceremonies in Washington, D. C 55 Cincinnati, Order of the: Banquet at Army and Navy Club 59-^1 Insignia designed by Maj. L'Enfant for 60 Steuben one of the founders 40, 60 Steuben relics in possession of 212-213 Columbia Tumverein, hosts at German kommers 63-64 Committee on seating 59 Congress: Acceptance of Steuben's resignation from the Army 109-113 Acts passed by — Adjusting Steuben claims 135 Providing for Pulaski and Steuben statues and replica 170, 186 Appointment of Steuben as Inspector General of the Army ... 89, 90, 106 Appropriations — Bronze replica of Steuben Statue 69, 174, 176, 178, 185-189 Steuben Statue 9, 156-157, 166, 167, 168, 170, 172-173, 178-183, 185, 191, 193 Army regulations — Order relative to observance of 93-94 Proceedings relative to paying Steuben for compiling 9S~97 Bill passed providing for erection of Steuben and Pulaski statues. 163, 166-170 Bills introduced by Hon. Richard Bartholdt (of Missouri) for Steu- ben Statue and replica 136, 171 Claims of Steuben for expenses incurred, congressional reports and resolutions on payment for 99-101, 106-135 Commendation of Steuben's system of military order and dis- cipline 95 Committee appointed to confer with Steuben about service in Continental Army 86, 141-142 Conference with Steuben relative to the German volunteers 90 Extracts relating to Steuben — From Annals and Journals of 117-135 From Congressional Record 136-198 Gen. Sullivan, Steuben requested to aid 89 Plan of Steuben for Department of Inspector General 91-93. 103, 105-106 Proceedings in 83-198 Remarks on Steuben and bills relating to statue — Hon. Richard Bartholdt (of Missouri) 155-156, 174-177. 181-185 Hon. Charles W. Fairbanks (of Indiana) 165-166 Index 229 Page Congress — Continued . Remarks on Steuben and bills relating to statue — Continued. Hon. J. A. Hemenway (of Indiana) 158-163 Hon. James R. Mann (of Illinois) 69-78 Hon. John Page (of Virginia) 128-130 Hon. William Sulzer (of New York) 149-155 Reports on bills relative to erection of Pulaski and Steuben stat- ues, and replica 137-149, 164-165, 172, 178 Resolutions and reports in Congress providing for printing of proceedings at tmveiling of Steuben Statue 190-198 Southern Department, Steuben directed to repair to 104 Sword presented to Steuben 26, 39, 112, 125, 149 Thanks extended to Steuben for services 39, 86, 111-112, 124-125, 149, 162 Continental Army: Divisions of 32-33, 143 Military discipline 23, 33^4, 44-45, 154 Continental Congress, extracts relating to Steuben from Journals of .... 85-116 Comwallis, Lieut. Gen. Charles, capitulation at Yorktown 24 Counterfeit money, British circulation of 34 Daughters of American Revolution : Commemorative exercises at grave of Steuben 207 Gift of bronze marker on Steuben's grave 207 Reception in New York to Hon. Richard Bartholdt (of Missouri) . . 70 Delegations attending unveiling ceremonies in Washington, D. C. : From Kriegerbunds 63 From New York 59 Description of statue ii-i» Engineer and Artillery Corps, created by Steuben 44 Exercises at im^veiling ceremonies in Washington, D. C, order of 16 Fairbanks, Hon. Charles W. (of Indiana), remarks on bill for erection of Pulaski and Steuben statues 165-166 Franklin, Benjamin: Advice to Steuben 21,31 Recognition of Steuben's interest in American colonies 30 Frederick the Great: Steuben a pupil of 22, 151 Treaty of commerce with the United States 43 German- American societies, banquet of 62 German citizenship 51 German Emperor: Presentation of bronze replica to 73 Reception and entertainment of American envoys presenting replica 75-77 Reply to speech of Hon. Richard Bartholdt (of Missoiu-i) 74-75 Telegram sent to President Taft upon unveiling of monument at Potsdam 76 German press comment 65, 78-81 230 Index Page Gennan Society of New York, Steuben one of the founders of 40 German volunteers, Congressional resolution raising new corps of troops by name of 90 Germany, friendship with the United States 43-44, 701 73, 74, 76, 175 Gerth, Mrs. Ottelie, mascot of Twentieth Txuiier Regiment of New York 63-64 Hamilton, Alexander: Report on Steuben's memorial 117-127 Witnesses Steuben's leadership at Battle of Monmouth 37i 5° Hancock, John, entertainment of Steuben 141, 153, 160 Hemenway, Hon. J. A. (of Indiana), brief remarks in Congress on life of Steuben 158-163 Hexamer, Dr. Charles J., address at unveiling ceremonies in Washing- ton, D. C 29-41 History of statue 9-1 1 See also Congress. Infantry, Light, Steuben the inventor of 38 Inspector General, Department of, plan of Steuben for. . . . 91-93, 103, 105-106 Invocation, at unveiling ceremonies in Washington, D. C, by Rev. Charles F. Steck, D. D 17-18 Jaegers, Albert: Biographical sketch 14 Description of statue 11-12 Presentation to German Emperor 75 Kapp, Friedrich, extracts from "The Life of Frederick William von Steuben" 202, 204-205 Kriegerbunds: Banquet given by Washington Kriegerbund 62-63 Delegations attending unveiling ceremonies in Washington, D. C 63 L 'Enfant, Maj. Pierre Charles: Insignia designed for Order of the Cincinnati 60 Letter from Steuben 60 Lithuanians, citizenship in United States 15S Location of statue 9, 12-14, 56 Mann, Hon. James R. (of Illinois), remarks in Congress on presentation of Steuben replica to German Emperor 69-78 Members of statue commission. See Steuben Statue Commission. Military Academy, West Point, suggested by Steuben 39 Minute Men, entertainment of 62-63 Models for statue submitted 9 Monmouth, Battle of, influence of Steuben at 37. S" National Museum, Washington, D. C, Steuben relics in possession of 213-214 New York City, Steuben tendered freedom of 26 New York Historical Society, Steuben's papers in archives of . . , 6, 32, 38, 213 Newspaper comment S3-6Si 78-81 Index 231 Page North, Col. William: Extract from biographical sketch of Steuben 161 Steuben memorial tablet presented by , 202-203 Steuben relics bequeathed to 2T0-212 Northeastern Singers' Association, participation in unveiling cere- monies in Washington, D. C SS> S^ Oneida Historical Society, Utica, N. Y. : Cooperation in restoration of Steuben's grave 207 Steuben relics in possession of 212 Page, Hon. John (of Virginia), remarks in Congress on Steuben's services and claims therefor 128-130 Parade at unveiling ceremonies in Washington, D. C, formation of 57-58 Poles, citizenship in United States 157-158 Potsdam, Germany: Presentation of bronze replica to German Emperor 69-81 Suitability of location for Steuben Statue 71 Pulaski, Count Casimir: Provisions for erection of statue 163, 166-170 Senate report in Fifty-seventh Congress relative to statue 164-165 Replica of Steuben Statue. See Steuben Statue, replica. Revolutionary interest attached to location for statue 13 Russell, Rev. William T., D. D., benediction at unveiling cere- monies in Washington, D. C 52 Sculptor. See Jaegers, Albert. Secretary of War, application of Steuben refused for position of 39 Steck, Rev. Charles F., D. D., invocation at unveiling ceremonies in Washington, D. C 17-18 Steuben, Baron Frederick William Augustus Henry Ferdinand von : Acts passed by Congress — Adjusting claims of 135 Providing for erection of statue and replica 170, 186 Admiration of Gen. Washington for 24 Advice of Benjamin Franklin 21. 31 Albany tendered freedom of city to 26 Army regulations — Compiler of 23, 112, 148 Congress orders observance of 93~94 Payment for compiling 95-97 Arrival in America 21, 22, 117, 141, 152 Battle of Monmouth, influence at 37, So Bibliography 217-226 Bills introduced in Congress by Hon. Richard Bartholdt (of Missouri) for erection of statue and replica 136, 171 Biographical sketches ig-28, 31-41, 43-45, 49-51, 137-149, 150-155, 158-163 Birth 31, 138, 151 Burial place 27, 41, 70, 201-207 Capitulation offered by Cornwallis to 24 232 Index Page Steuben, Baron Frederick William Augustus Henry Ferdinand von — Continued. Citizenship of 40 Claims for expenses incurred, congressional reports and resolutions on payment for 99-101, 106-135 Coat of arms of the Steuben family 214 Commendation by Gen. Washington 6, 26-27, 3^, 45, 50-51, 87, 148, 154, 161-162 Committee of Congress appointed to confer about service in Conti- nental Army 86, 141-142 Conference relative to the German volunteers 90 Congressional resolution of commendation relative to military order and discipline of 95 Control over Army supplies 23 Death 27, 41 Description of visit made by Rev. John Taylor to house and grave of 202-203 Early training 21, 31, 49, 138, 151 Engineer and Artillery Corps, created by 44 Entertained by John Hancock 141, 153, 160 Extracts relating to — From address by Rev. D. W. Bigelow on movement to erect monument at grave of 206-207 From Annals and Journals of Congress 117-135 From Congressional Record 136-198 From Journals of Continental Congress 85-116 From "The Life of Frederick William von Steuben," by Friedrich Kapp 202, 204-205 "Father of the American Army" 32,41 Founder of — German Society of New York 40 Order of the Cincirmati 40, 60 Genius of 36 Gold box presented to 26 Independent command in Army refused by Congress 24 Inspector General, Department of, plan for 91-93, 103, 105-106 Inspector General of the Army 34, 87, 88, 89, 90, 93, 103, 106, 148, 154-15S Inventor of forma^on of light infantry 38 Land granted for services to 26, 40 Letters from 6,60,85, i°8, 109, 112, 121, 122-124, 141, 152-1531 159-160 Master mind of 20 Memorial tablet given by Col. William North 204-205 Memorials 201-214 Military academy suggested 39 Military discipline and knowledge 20-21, 23, 31-32, 35-38, 44-4Si 49-So> 87, 95. 129-130. 138, 146-147. 151. 154. 159. 160-161 Index 233 Page Steuben, Baron Frederick William Augustus Henry Ferdinand von — Continued. Motives for aiding colonists 30, 49, 86, 121, 122, 152-153 New York tendered freedom of city to 26 Offers services to Congress 22,85, 121, ^4^) ^S^-iSS; 159-160 Papers preserved in archives of New York Historical Society 6, 32,38,213 Pennsylvania conferred honorary citizenship on 26 Pension for 26, 116, 126-127, -^^S, 131-135 Portraits and relics 209-214 Pupil of Frederick the Great 22, 151 Raising troops in Virginia 23-24 Reception by Gen. Washington 22 Regent of University of New York 40 Remarks in Congress, on life, services, and statue, by — Hon. Richard Bartholdt (of Missouri) 155-156, 174-177, 181-185 Hon. Charles W. Fairbanks (of Indiana) 165-166 Hon. J. A. Hemenway (of Indiana) 158-163 Hon. James R. Mann (of Illinois) 69-78 Hon. John Page (of Virginia) 128-130 Hon. William Sulzer (of New York) 149-155 Report from Alexander Hamilton on memorial of 11 7-12 7 Requested to aid Gen. Sullivan in Rhode Island 89 Resignation from Army 39, 108-113, 149, 162 Secretary of War, application refused for position of 39 Southern Department, directed to repair to 104 Spelling of name 85 Swords presented to 26, 39, 112, 125, 149 Thanks of Congress extended to 39, 86, 111-112, 124-125, 149, 162 Will of 201-202 Yorktown, participation at 38 Steuben Statue: Act of Congress providing for erection at Washington, D. C 170 Appropriations for 9,156-157, 166-167, 168, 170, 172-173, 178-183, 185, 191, 193 Bills and reports in Congress relative to erection of 136, 137-149. 163-170 History 9-ir Location g, 12-14, 56 Models submitted 9 Resolutions and reports in Congress providing for printing of pro- ceedings at unveiling of igo-igS Steuben Statue Commission, members of 8 Steuben Statue, replica: Act providing for erection of 186 Appropriations for 6g, 174, 176, 178, 185-189 Bill introduced in Congress, with remarks, by Hon. Richard Bartholdt (of Missouri) for erection of 171, 174-178 234 Index Page Steuben Statue, replica — Continued. Extract from message of President Taft relative to presentation to German Emperor 196 Presentation at Potsdam, Germany 60-81 Reports on bill for erection of 172, 178 Sulzer, Hon. William (of New York), remarks in Congress on Steuben and services rendered by him 149-155 Taft, Miss Helen, unveiling of statue 47i S6 Taft, William Howard (President of the United States): Address at unveiling ceremonies in Washington, D. C 49-51 Extract from message relative to presentation of Steuben replica to German Emperor 196 Telegram in response to message from German Emperor 76 Taylor, Rev. John, description of visit made to Steuben's house and grave 202-203 Thompson, James Sweeney, Steuben relics in possession of 213 Tumvereins, representation at unveiling ceremonies in Washington, D. C 64 United German Alliance Committee, entertainment by Washington Chamber of Commerce 61-62 Unveiling ceremonies: Potsdam, Germany, September 2, 1911 71-81 Washington, D. C, December 7, 1910 10, 15-52 Washington, Gen. George: Commendation of Steuben 's services 6,26-27,38,45, 50-51, 87, 148, 154, 161-162 Letters from 6, 26-27, 87, 148, 162 Reception of Steuben 22 Washington, D. C, imveiling ceremonies, December 7, 1910 10, 15-52 Washington Chamber of Commerce, hosts to United German Alliance Committee 61-62 Washington Kriegerbund, banquet of 62-63 Wolffram, Hon. Charles B.: Dinner given to Hon. Richard Bartholdt (of Missouri) in Ger- many 77 Presentation of bronze replica to German Emperor 7°. 75 Reception by German Emperor 75 Yorktown, Va., services rendered by Steuben at 38