Letter from the Original Spring Grove State Hospital during the War of 1812

 

The letter reads:

Gentlemen, There are in the Hospital at this time about thirty sick and wounded soldiers, many of whom are altogether destitute of bedding. They also stand in need of a daily supply of fresh beef and flour. The committee will please to take the subject into consideration, and adopt some mode by which these necessary articles may be supplied. Very respectfully, Colin MacKenzie.” The petitioner, Dr. MacKenzie was one of the two physicians who were in charge of the hospital at the time. The letter was evidently penned on the day before the Battle of North Point.