John W. Davidson to A. A. Stevens, January 29, 1865

Col. A. A. STEVENS, Commanding Camp Morton:

Sir: I have the honor to submit the following inspection report of the condition of the prisoners of war at this station for the week ending January 28, 1865:

Conduct—good. Cleanliness—good. State of clothing—good. Bedding—good. State of quarters—kept well policed. State of messhouses—have none. State of kitehen—good. Food, quality of—first class. Food, quantity of—sufficient, being in accordance to orders. Water—sufficient. Sinks—sufticient for cold weather. Police of grounds—covered with snow and ice all week. lrainage—complete. Police of hospital—good. Attendance of sick—good. Hospital diet— first class. General health of prisoners—bad and fatality great. Vigilance of guard—very strict.

Remarks and suggestions.—I would respectfully suggest that, owing to the barracks in this camp being badly constructed for cold weather and the weather being so extremely cold, the sickness has increased very rapidly in the past week and the casualties have been very heavy. Also that the new hospital wards under construction are completed and are being occupied by the sick in camp, but unfortunately there is not sufficient room in them for the sick in camp, and, in my opinion, at least three additional wards are still needed to contain them.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,