Transferring the Wounded

The work of removing the wounded soldiers brought to St. Louis from the scene of the late terrible battle on the Tennessee river is carefully and slowly progressing, as we go to press with our evening edition. A large number of ambulances and hospital and baggage wagons have been employed, and every arrangement perfected for the transfer of all the wounded to the hospitals with the greatest regard to the comfort of the sufferers. The gentlemen of the Sanitary Commission, as well as the military authorities proper, have been unwearying in their superintendence and direction of their sad duties, whilst the presence and activity of the Chief of Police, Captain Couzins, with a detail of his force, are worthy of honorable mention. Many citizens have also kindly and humanely proffered their services.

During the morning large throngs of people gathered on the wharf in the vicinity of the steamers carrying the wounded troops, and watched with melancholy interest the debarkation of the maimed, crippled and pale victims of war. Many a heart was touched by the painful scene, and the occasion was not without incidents the relation of which may well be spared, in view of the general gloom that the presence of such a number of the unfortunates has already cast over the community. – {St. Louis Republican.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 19, 1862