Handwritten letter from Walter Crenshaw to his mother dated 11 June 1898 from Camp Cuba Libre in Jacksonville, Florida.
Crenshaw served as a private in Company 4 of the 4th Regiment, Virginia Volunteers. The company reached Camp Cuba Libre on 07 June 1898 and joined the Third Brigade, Second Division, Seventh Army.
Crenshaw was discharged as a corporal on 22 November 1898.
Crenshaw's unit did not see service in Cuba during the Spanish-American War.
Camp Cuba Libre was established in response to overcrowding at camps in Tampa, Florida.
This letter is part of Manuscript 1942, The Crenshaw Family Collection, Folder 1.
Watchman, What of the Night? by A. F. Thomas, examines the parallels between biblical and contemporary global turmoil, advocating for moral integrity, democratic cooperation, and international governance. Thomas critiques the failures of post-WWI settlements, emphasizes the importance of moral law in political and economic realms, and suggests that the U.S. model of divided sovereignty could inspire a global democratic framework.
Thomas Ledford begins by discussing the 1927 Mississippi River Flood that is considered by many to be America's greatest natural disaster. Ledford analyzes the causes of major floods and then discusses past and future plans to control flooding. Unfortunately Captain Andrew Humphrey’s jealousy over the sound ideas of two excellent scientists threw flood control progress off track for seventy-five years. Despite new ideas about flood control, Ledford questions whether great river floods can ever be eliminated.
The paper examines the rise and fall of Enron, detailing its foundation, leadership, business practices, and the catastrophic consequences of its unethical and financially deceptive operations. Key points include Enron's aggressive expansion, mark-to-market accounting, special purpose entities, and the role of major figures such as Ken Lay, Jeff Skilling, and Andrew Fastow. The collapse illustrates broader issues in corporate governance and ethical failures in American business.
The paper discusses the author's reflections on Haiti's historical and current socio-political challenges, informed by personal experiences and interactions with the Haitian people. It outlines Haiti's history of exploitation and resilience, from the arrival of Columbus to recent political and natural disasters. The author highlights key figures, events, and the ongoing struggle for justice and development, advocating for a comprehensive, empathetic approach to aid and reconstruction.
This paper by Dr. H.B. Whiteman, titled "We Stole It, Fair and Square," discusses the history and political implications of the Panama Canal and the treaties related to it. It covers the construction of the Canal, the political debates surrounding its control, and the influence of nationalism and international politics. The paper integrates historical context with current controversies, including opinions on the U.S.'s role in Panama and the broader implications for international relations.
Dr. William W. Ferguson's lecture "Westward Ho" examines the principles behind the formation of the United States government, focusing on the Ordinance of 1787. The paper discusses the historical context, land policies, and governance structures that emerged post-Revolutionary War, emphasizing the significance of these developments in shaping American ideals and expansion.
The paper discusses the dissemination of erroneous and misleading information by government agencies during wartime, focusing on the issues arising from poor communication and the impact of censorship on public knowledge and morale. It examines specific instances where incorrect data led to significant consequences, highlighting the tension between maintaining national security and the public’s right to know. The organization of the paper explores the historical context, presents case studies, and critiques the systems responsible for information control and release.
Joe Stinnett's Sphex Club talk, "What Demi-god Hath come so near creation?" explores 19th-century photography in Lynchburg, focusing on daguerreotypist Peter E. Gibbs. Stinnett discusses Gibbs' techniques, notable works including an image of enslaved woman Mary Brice, and the cultural impact of photography in that era. The paper highlights the technical and social aspects of early photography.
The paper discusses George Stewart's role in the history and success of First Colony Life Insurance Company. It details First Colony's founding, major milestones, innovative marketing strategies, product development, and its impact on the life insurance industry. The paper emphasizes Stewart's leadership, the company's growth, and its eventual acquisition by General Electric.
The paper details a mission by U.S. environmental engineers to China in 1986, focusing on pollution control in water, wastewater treatment, and refuse. It highlights interactions with Chinese counterparts, visits to various industrial sites, and cultural experiences in China, emphasizing the interconnectedness and educational backgrounds of the participants.
John Mullen, a vice president of RJ Reynolds, explores the reasons for the Big Deal activity on Wall Street in the 1980s, culminating with the buyout of RJ Reynolds by KKR in 1988. He noted that two symbiotic factors contributed: junk bond financing and greed, both exemplified in the person of Michael Milken. The paper discusses Milken’s rise to power and its conjunction with changes in the securities industry and other sectors of finance.
This paper by David T. Petty, Jr. discusses the complex scenario of U.S. foreign policy and governance in Iraq, focusing on the transition towards democracy post-Saddam Hussein's regime. It critically examines the U.S. administration's decisions, the role of external influences, and the challenges faced in establishing a democratic governance structure in Iraq, highlighting key issues such as the influence of religious and ethnic divisions, the impact of foreign intervention, and the prospects for future stability and democracy. The paper is structured to explore the historical context, the governance efforts by the U.S., the political landscape, and the ideological challenges, concluding with different viewpoints on the mission in Iraq and its implications for U.S. foreign policy.
Richard P. Gifford's paper "WHAT WE HAVE HERE IS A FAILURE TO COMMUNICATE," explores the evolution of human society through the development of tools of production, transportation, and communication. Gifford emphasizes the significant role of communication tools in societal progress and advocates for their increased public support to counteract the negative effects of urbanization and enhance human connection.
This academic paper explores the author's philosophical reflections on fate, destiny, and human agency through a narrative blending personal experiences, historical events, and contemplation of life's mysteries. Russell delves into the extent to which human lives are shaped by their actions versus predetermined destiny, inspired by his own life's highs and lows. The paper discusses the impact of significant events, such as President Kennedy's assassination, and integrates Russell's musings on spirituality, scientific progress, and changing societal norms on religion and morality. Through a mix of anecdotal evidence and speculative reasoning, Russell probes the essence of existence and the interplay between choice and fate.
What's a Nice Girl Like Juliana Barnes Doing in a Place Like...? by Joel Keyes explores the history and essence of fly fishing through the lens of Juliana Barnes, a 15th Century figure credited with pioneering literature on the subject. Keyes weaves social and psychological perspectives into the narrative, highlighting the sport's evolution, its social etiquette, and the personal fulfillment it offers beyond mere technique. He discusses the shift in fly fishing's demographic and its implications, emphasizing the sport's deeper values over contemporary commercialization and competitiveness. The paper ultimately serves as both a tribute to Barnes's legacy and a contemplation on the intrinsic rewards of fly fishing, advocating for a return to its roots in respect, solitude, and connection with nature.
Michael A. Gillette's paper, "What's Good for the Goose...", explores ethical theories through the lens of fairy tales and idioms. He uses stories like "The Little Red Hen" and "Goldilocks" to introduce complex ethical principles such as Locke's theory of property and the Aristotelian Golden Mean. Gillette further delves into moral reasoning, arguing against the theoretical model and advocating for a casuistic approach. He applies this to contemporary issues like terrorism, emphasizing the importance of ethical consistency in our response to terrorist acts.
William A. McIntosh's 2003 presentation, "When Illusion Becomes Reality," examines the blurred lines between truth and perception in historical narratives, focusing on the romanticization of Major General James Wolfe's death during the Battle of the Plains of Abraham. McIntosh contrasts the commitments to truth among philosophers, historians, and artists, using artistic depictions and literary references to explore how history is often colored by the latter's commitment to narrative and emotional impact over factual accuracy. He concludes that while historians strive for factual correctness, artists prioritize conveying broader truths through illusion.
The paper "When You Think You Are Right - You Are Wrong and When You Think You Are Wrong - You Are Right" by George M. Snead, Jr., examines the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers during wartime, particularly during World War II and the Korean War. It discusses the challenges of following orders versus personal moral responsibility, illustrated by the Nuremberg Trials and incidents like No Gun Ri. The paper emphasizes the complexities of combat morality and the need for clear guidelines and understanding in military contexts.
Eric Sorenson, Sr. examines the scientific searches for the existence of extra-terrestrial life. Then he explains logical reasons why we have not yet found life elsewhere. Sorenson ends by quoting the scientist Martin Rees, “The absence of evidence is not evidence of absence."
Where Did My Hero(es) Go? by George M. Snead, Jr. discusses the life and legacy of Charles Augustus Lindbergh, Jr. It traces Lindbergh's journey from his early life through his historic flight and subsequent contributions to aviation, highlighting the challenges he faced with public perception and media scrutiny. Snead examines the evolution of Lindbergh's heroism and the impact of misinformation on his public image.
The paper, "Where's the Mountaintop" by Julius Sigler, offers an in-depth exploration of the American hero archetype, exemplified by the life and legend of David Crockett. Sigler juxtaposes the historical Crockett, a pioneer, legislator, and Alamo martyr, with the mythologized "Davy" Crockett, a folk hero woven into the American cultural fabric through tall tales, plays, and television. Through the examination of Crockett's real exploits alongside his legendary feats, Sigler illustrates the profound impact of Crockett's legacy on American identity and the concept of heroism. The narrative is structured around Crockett's biography, highlighting key events from his upbringing, political career, and eventual heroic stand at the Alamo, while also delving into the creation and perpetuation of his larger-than-life legend.
In 2018 California has more irrigated acreage and produces a wider variety of commercial crops than any other state in the USA. Enough useable water has always been the greatest challenge for California since the Gold Rush of 1849. A history is traced of the complex challenge of providing water to such a diverse state which sometimes seems to experience overwhelming needs for clean water.
Thomas C. Tiller's paper "WHO GOES THERE?" examines the complex issue of dissent in wartime, specifically focusing on the balance between national security and the protection of civil liberties. Tiller explores historical instances where the U.S. government has restricted freedom of speech during times of war, such as the Alien and Sedition Acts of 1798, Lincoln's suspension of habeas corpus during the Civil War, and the Espionage and Sedition Acts during World War I. By referencing Geoffrey R. Stone's "Perilous Times: Free Speech in Wartime," Tiller underscores the recurring theme of governments curtailing civil liberties under the guise of national security. The paper emphasizes the importance of maintaining a robust dialogue on governmental policies and actions, especially in times of conflict, to prevent the erosion of fundamental freedoms. Tiller argues that open debate is crucial for a democratic society to avoid "tragic blunders" and to ensure that security measures do not undermine the very principles they aim to protect.
Demographic and other trends are increasing demands placed on the judicial system. History of the evolving requirements to provide legal representation for the indigent and the various mechanisms to address the need.
