This document is of an uncommon and macabre variety – an inventory of personal effects belonging to Private Ephraim Bennett, age 43, of the 176^th Ohio Infantry, from US General Hospital No. 19 in Nashville, Tennessee.  Over 100 men of the 176^th Ohio died of disease during the regiment’s somewhat short term of service, losing none in combat during their only battle at Nashville.

Two documents are included in this grouping, both inventories of effects at time of passing.  One is an internal hospital accounting form, the other is an external notice written on official hospital stationary to Mrs. Bennett, Ephraim’s wife.  Though the forms mistakenly list the year of death as 1864 in two places, his date of death is also correctly listed as March 7^th, 1865.

The document intended for his wife measures 5.1” x 7.9” with very light and scattered foxing.  A branded logo mark is noted at upper right. The document was folded into nine parts horizontally and vertically. His effects included a knapsack, overcoat, blanket, fatigue coat, trousers, a shirt, and a pair of boots.  A note at bottom instructs her to retain both documents for any future legal necessities. No tears or damage and all ink handwriting is clear with light oxidation.

The internal receipt is a common army form that was hand copied by Private Bennett’s company commander from Surgeon Perkins’ original.  It certifies the same as the other, without the Hospital Number 19 heading.  The document is folded into thirds as intended, and labeled across the center rear section for filing purposes.  Light staining and two localized ink stains are noted along the right edge, as is a half inch tear close to the center (of the right edge).  Slight edge separation measuring approximately .5” is noted at each side of the upper horizontal fold – but is really very minor. The paper measures 8” x 10.25”.

A somber and uncommon record of the passing of a brave man – in an unceremonious hospital far from home and family. An excellent piece for the Civil War ephemera collector.  [cm][ph:L]

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