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University of Michigan William L. Clements Library

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McCaskey Family Correspondence, [June 6, 1898]-August 7, 1898.

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Containers:
Box 2, Folder 1
Abstract:
These are 5 items from William Chapman, Army, and 9 items (6 letters, 3 empty envelopes) from William and Douglas McCaskey, Infantry. William Chapman was an army captain (related to the McCaskey family by marriage) who was present in Santiago when the Spanish troops surrendered on July 17th; three of his letters detail the Spanish decision to surrender amidst a yellow fever outbreak, effectively ending the war. In an August letter to his mother, he expresses frustration that credit for the Santiago surrender in the press was going to the Rough Riders (who Chapman viewed as unprofessional but passionate) and the 71st New York Volunteer infantry (who Chapman hated). Instead, Chapman argued that the bulk of the credit should go to the First Brigade, including the 3rd and 20th Infantry--the 20th coincidentally commanded by Chapman's in-law William McCaskey. The other collection consists of papers from father William and son Douglas McCaskey, including a June 1898 note from William to his wife meant as a farewell letter in case William died commanding the 20th; a note from Douglas to his mother (William's wife) in Fort Leavenworth detailing the military situation; two other letters from William to his wife detailing the military situation during the siege of Santiago (including a hand-drawn map); and an August letter from William to his wife indicating that Douglas had typhoid but was recovering. Soldiers' letters, Battle of Santiago, Siege of Santiago, 20th U.S. Infantry, Rough Riders, guerrilla warfare. Partial geographical list: Santiago (Cuba), Tampa (Fla.), Fort Leavenworth (Kan.).
Extent:
11 items [plus 3 empty envelopes]

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