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Dr James Hunter Berrien

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Dr James Hunter Berrien Veteran

Birth
Savannah, Chatham County, Georgia, USA
Death
18 Mar 1868 (aged 34)
San Luis Potosí Municipality, San Luis Potosi, Mexico
Burial
San Luis Potosi, San Luis Potosí Municipality, San Luis Potosi, Mexico Add to Map
Memorial ID
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12/27/1835 - Born, Savannah, Chatham Co., GA [Father: John MacPherson Berrien (1781-1856); Mother: Eliza Cecil Hunter (1810-1852)]
02/02/1852 - Mother, Eliza died in Savannah, Chatham Co., GA (buried: Laurel Grove Cemetery North, Savannah, Georgia; FindAGrave #62049805)
1853-1854 - Senior, College of New Jersey, Princeton, NJ (from: Savannah, GA)
1854 - A.M. degree, College of New Jersey, Princeton, NJ [Note: This college subsequently become Princeton, University.]
1855-1856 - Attended, Savannah Medical College, Savannah, GA
01/01/1856 - Father, John, died in Savannah, Chatham Co., GA (buried: Laurel Grove Cemetery North, Savannah, Georgia; FindAGrave #7442066)
1856-1857 - Attended, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA
1857 - M.D. degree, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA (from: Savannah, Chatham Co., GA; preceptor: Dr. C. W. West; thesis: "Yellow Fever")
1857 - Assistant Resident Physician, Blockley Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
06/08/1860 - Appointed Asst. Surgeon, U. S. Army (from: Georgia)
03/07/1861 - In a letter from Montgomery, AL, to Hon. L. P. Walker, Secretary of War [Confederate States of America], "Dear Sir, I present to you the application of Dr. James H. Berrien of the U. S. A. for such appointment in the Medical Staff as you may think him entitled to. Dr. Berrien has been __ __ __ in Washington territory & has therefore been prevented from sending in his resignation, but I am sure he is on his way home. I hope you will consider this as his application. He is in all respects such a man as I take pleasure to recommend., Yours truly, Francis S. Bartow. [Note: Francis S. Bartow was killed at the First Battle of Manassas and was the first brigade commander of the Confederate States to die in combat.]
03/17/1861 - Resigned as Asst. Surgeon, U. S. Army
03/17/1861 - In a letter written from Savannah, GA, to His Excellency Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States of America, "Sir, I have the honor to inform you that I have this day, immediately on my return from Washington Territory, tendered my resignation as Assistant Surgeon in the Army of the United States. I am informed by my Brethen Mr. Bartow, that he has already filed my application at the War Department, for an appointment in the Medical Staff of the Army of the Confederate States. I beg leave now personally to make this application, and to assure you that it gives me great pleasure to tender immediate service to the Government of the Confederate States. I have the honor to be Sir, Your Obt. Servt., J. Hunter Berrien"
03/28/1861-03/30/1861 - As Asst. Surgeon, Confederate States Army, travelled from Montgomery, AL, to Savannah, GA
03/28/1861 - "Actg Asst. Surgeon Jas. H. Berrien will proceed to Savannah, Ga., & report thence by letter to this office" [S.O. 11/1]
03/30/1861 - As "Acting Asst. Surgeon", reported arrival in Savannah, GA
04/12/1861 - Asst. Surgeon, Savannah, GA
04/13/1861 - "Asst. Surgeon James H. Berrien, Medical Department, will proceed to
Pensacola, Florida, and report for duty to Brig. Genl. Bragg, Commanding" [S. O. 22/1]
04/13/1861 - "Special Order No. 22 of to-day from this office, is revoked, and Asst. Surg. James H. Berrien, Medical Department, will report to Brig. Genl A. R. Lawton for duty at Fort Pulaski, Georgia" [S. O. 23/3]
04/26/1861 - "Until further orders, Assistant Surgeon James H. Berrien, C. S. Army, is assigned to duty at Oglethorpe Barracks [Savannah, Georgia]. He will report without delay to the Commanding Officer of the Post. By order of A. R. Lawton, Brig. General,
Commanding" [S.O. No. 6]
05/24/1861 - Appointed Asst. Surgeon, Regular Army of the Confederate States, to rank
from 03/16/1861
06/18/1861 - Relieved from duty in the District of Savannah, and ordered to proceed to
Richmond, VA, and to report to the Surgeon General, C. S. A. [S. O. 57 Dist. of Savannah Gen. A. R. Lawton]
07/09/1861 - In a letter written from the Spotswood House [hotel in Richmond, VA], to
Jefferson Davis, the President of the Confederate States, "Mr. President, Dear Sir, I went this morning to see Genl Cooper in regard to my application, and the application of Dr. J. S. Coleman of Georgia, for appointments as Surgeon and Assistant Surgeon in the Regiment of Cavalry Commanded by Col. Robert Johnston [3rd VA Cavalry] of this city. Genl. Cooper says that he has not the papers and does not know what became of them. I tried to see the Secty. of War but did not succeed. Col. Johnston leaves tomorrow and is most anxious to have me follow him with Dr. Coleman as soon as
practicable. If you will advise me what course to pursue I will be most obliged to you. Very Resp. Your Obt Servt, J. Hunter Berrien, Asst. Surg, C. S. A. P. S. Please be so Kind as to answer me by sending your answer to No. 57 Spotwood. J. H. B."
07/16/1861 - Appointed Surgeon, Provisional Army of the Confederate States
07/16/1861 - Ordered to report to the 3rd VA Cavalry
07/18/1861 - In a letter written on the letterhead of the Confederate States of America,
Surgeon General's Office, Richmond, VA to the Honorable L. P. Walker, Secretary of War, Richmond, VA, "Sir, I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 16th inst informing me of my appointment as Surgeon in a Regiment of Cavalry, P. A. C. S. I desire to know if my acceptance of that appointment will interfere with the Commission I now hold in the permanent Medical Corps of the C. S. Army. In other words will I be permitted to retain my present commission in that corps. I am Sir Very Resp. Your Obt. Servt, J. Hunter Berrien Asst Surg. C.S.A.
07/23/1861 - "Leave of absence for twenty days is granted Surgeon J. H. Berrien, Medical Department, at the expiration of which he will report to the Surgeon General
in this City [Richmond, VA]." [S. O. 104/1]
08/15/1861 - As Surgeon, stationed at Yorktown, VA
11/20/1861 - "The leave of absence granted Surgeon J. H. Berrien, C S. A., by General Magruder, is extended ten days." [S. O. 230/10]
11/27/1861 - Relieved from duty as Surgeon, 3rd VA Cavalry, by order of the Secretary of War and ordered to the Surgeon General's office for assignment
11/28/1861 - Col. Robert Johnston of the 3rd VA Cavalry, Yorktown, VA, asked for the transfer of Surgeon J. H. Berrien
12/05/1861 - "Surgeon J. Hunter Berrien, Provisional Army is assigned to temporary Hospital duty in this city [Richmond, Virginia] and will report to Surgeon Henry F. Campbell in charge of Georgia Hospitals.
12/31/1861 - Confirmed as Asst. Surgeon from GA by the Confederate States Senate
01/01/1862 - As Surgeon, stationed in Richmond, VA
01/30/1862 - Surgeon in charge, 3rd Georgia Hospital, Richmond, VA
02/05/1862 - Confirmed as Surgeon from GA by the Confederate States Senate
03/07/1862 - "Surgeon J. M. Green will relieve from duty Surgeon J. H. Berrien in charge of the 3rd Georgia Hospital in this City [Richmond, Virginia]. Surgeon Berrien, on being relieved, will report to the Surgeon General for instruction" [S. O. 53/11]
03/10/1862 - "Surgeon J. Hunter Berrien will inspect Hospitals and Camps of Genl. [M.] Lovell's Command and make the necessary reports to the Surgeon General" [S. O. 55/16]
03/31/1862 - As Surgeon, stationed in Richmond, VA
06/11/1862 - "Leave of absence for twenty days for the benefit of his health is granted Surgeon J. H. Berrien, Inspector of Camps and Hospitals, Department of South Carolina and Georgia" [S. O. 134/5]
06/17/1862 - "Surgeon J. H. Berrien having declined to accept the leave of absence granted him by the War Department, is hereby ordered to report in person to this office for duty. By Command of the Secretary of War, S P. Moore, Surg. Genl, C. S. A."
06/20/1862-06/25/1862 - Travelled from Savannah, GA, to Richmond, VA, charging the Confederate States $56.10 (561 miles @ 10 cents/mile)
07/10/1862 - "A Board of Examiners to consist of Surgeons J. H. Berrien and Walker Coles, and Assistant Surgeon A. Taylor will be convened to examine and report upon all applications arising in the Department of Henrico for leaves of absence and furloughs on account of ill health and for Discharges in Surgeon's Certificates of disability. Surgeon Berrien will report to the Surgeon General for further instructions" [S. O. 159/11]
10/02/1862 - "Surgeon J. H. Berrien will report for duty to Major General T. H. Holmes, Commanding Trans Mississippi Department at Little Rock, Arkansas" [S. O. 230/36]
12/28/1862 - Announced as Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona
01/31/1863 - Assigned as Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona [Gen. Ord #6]
02/00/1863-01/00/1864 - Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona
02/03/1863 - In a letter written from the Medical Director's Office, Houston, TX, to Capt. E. P. Turner, Asst. Adjutant General, Houston, TX, "Sir, I have the honor to inform you that after a careful inspection of the Medical Purveyor's Department of this Sub District, I find great deficiency in the supply of medicines and Hospital supplies. The Purveyor [Henry Shearer] tells me that he has made requisition for supplies on the Medical Purveyor at San Antonio, but that his requisitions have not been filled, owing he thinks to the fact that the Medical Purveyor at that point has not the supply to answer the demand made upon him. I have to suggest that I may be authorized to instruct Surgeon [Henry Peyton] Howard, Medical Purveyor at San Antonio, if he has not supplies to fill a requisition which will be made upon him by Surgeon Shearer in a short time, to request Maj. Hart at once to contract for sufficient medical and Hospital supplies for one year for 10,000 men, in addition to any other supplies he may need. And that Surgeon Howard be instructed not to allow these supplies to be removed from this District without reference this office. I can refer Maj. Hart to a gentleman who can and will contract with him to furnish Medical Supplies as quickly as practical. For the present I would respectfully request that the Quarter Master be instructed to supply the Medical Purveyor with funds sufficient to make purchases actually necessary for present use. Very respectfully, Yr obt. Svt. J. Hunter Berrien, Surg & Med Director, Dist. Texas"
02/12/1863 - In a letter written from the Medical Director's Office, Headquarters, Houston, TX, to Capt. E. P. Turner, Asst. Adjutant General, "Sir, In this Department I find that there are a number of Physicians who are serving under contract and at the same time are in the ranks as Privates. As this is contrary to all precedent or regulation, I have to request that you will issue an Order directing all Commanders at once to determine contracts made with Privates Soldiers, and also that you will declare such contracts as null and void from the time they were made. Physicians who are in the ranks as privates should be detailed for the purpose of attending the sick and if found competent they can be recommended for appointments from the date of their detail. I wish you would make this statement in your order in regard to this matter. Very Respectfully, Yr. Obt Svt, J. Hunter Berrien, Surg. & Med. Director, Dist. Texas"
02/17/1863 - In a note written from the Medical Director's Office, Houston, TX, to an Asst. Adjutant General, "Capt., Will you please issue an order (and send it to me) to the effect that the Quarter Master at San Antonio will turn over to the Chf. Surg. of his Sub. Dist. Surg. H. P. Howard, for the use of the Med. Dept., two Ambulance teams, drivers &c. complete. 24 mule teams. Respectfully, Yr. Obt. Servt. J. Hunter Berrien, Surg & Med. Dir."
02/28/1863 - Surgeon & Medical Director, Headquarters, Houston, Texas
06/01/1863 - Surgeon & Medical Director, Houston, Texas
07/03/1863 - In a letter written from Houston, TX, to Capt. E. P. Turner, Asst. Adjutant General, Houston, TX, "Sir, I have the honor to call the attention of the Maj. General Commanding to the fact that nearly Every Member of his Staff have for some time past been suffering from fever from Malaria. I would suggest the immediate removal of Head Qtrs. to Piedmont of which place in a former communication I made a Sanitary report. I would also suggest that you state to the Maj. Genl. Commanding that I think his health demands a change of scene and action for at least a week or ten days. This can be had by his visiting Piedmont for this length of time. Even should the press of business forbid the immediate removal of Head Quarters. I feel confident from experience that the waters will be of much service to him. Very respectfully, Your Obt. Servant, J. H. Berrien, Surgeon and Med. Director" Note: Dr. Berrien was probably referring to Piedmont Springs, TX, which is about 50 miles northwest of Houston, and was famous during the Civil War for its sulfur springs.
07/10/1863 - In a letter written from Galveston, TX, to Capt. E. P. Turner, Asst. Adjutant General, "Capt., I am instructed by the Maj. Genl. Comdg, to request you at once to write to Maj Russell at Brownsville, and to instruct him to purchase and pay for the cotton, the invoice of Medicines, etc. submitted by Dr. DeLeon to Maj. Hart and myself in May last. The Genl. directs that these Medical Stores be at once sent to Houston to the Med Purveyor, Surg. Howard Smith. I am Capt,, Very Respty, Your Obt Servt, J. Hunter Berrien, Surg & Med Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona
08/01/1863 - As Surgeon & Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, stationed at Houston, TX
09/21/1863 - In a letter written from Sabin's Pass, TX, to Capt. Ed. B. Turner, Asst. Adjutant General, "Sir, I have the honor to request that an order be issued from your Office, allowing Contract Physicians to purchase from the Commissary and Quarter Masters Department at Government or contract prices. Contract Physicians being Employed to perform the duties of Medical Officers; they cannot be assigned to duty as Medical Officers until they have passed an Examination before an Army Medical Board and such Boards being only appointed from Richmond, Va., necessitates a great delay in this matter. The small amount allowed by the regulations ($100 One hundred Dollars per month.) will not at the present prices subsist a person and unless some measures are taken, I will loose [sic - lose] the services of numerous physicians and those places cannot be filled. In consideration of these facts the issue of the order, as above requested is earnestly enjoined. Very respectfully, Your Obt Servant, J. H. Berrien, Surgeon and Medical Director"
10/31/1863 - As Surgeon & Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, stationed at Houston, TX, under Maj. Genl, J. B. Magruder's Command
11/11/1863 - Surgeon & Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, Houston, TX
12/15/1863 - In a letter written from Columbia, Texas to Edmund P. Turner, Capt. & Asst. Adjutant General, "Sir, I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 14th inst. in referenced to a deficiency of stretchers, for commands in the field and in reply I have to state that if such a deficiency exists, it must be the fault of the Quarter Master's Department, as there is a sufficient number of stretchers in the Purveyor's Department, and the same have been issued to Commands in the field if required by the Medical Officers in their requisitions. I would also state that in addition to these, there was a number turned over to Surgeon Chas. Ganahl, Chief Surgeon of Division among other medical supplies and stores for use as occasion might require. The latter are now at this point in the Quarter Master's store, waiting transportation, as I am informed Surgeon Ganahl has directed them forwarded to the Hd Qtrs in the field. I am Sir, Very respectfully, Your Obt. Servant, J H. Berrien, Surgeon and Medical Director, Dist. Texas etc."
01/19/1864 - Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, Shreveport, LA
06/08/1864 - In a letter written from Houston, Texas to an unknown high level, Confederate physician, "Doctor, I desire to call your attention to the order of assignment of Surgeon [David Wendel] Yandell to duty as Medical Director of this Department [Trans-Mississippi Department] and to ask your aid and advice in regard to the bearing of this Order on my Official position. I beg you to consider this as a private communication as in such a communication I can better explain facts, and also I fear an Official letter sent through intermediate commands will never reach you. For nearly a year and a half I have been Medical Director of this District. As soon as I was assigned to duty I sent you a Copy of the Order, which has never been objected to by you and consequently I presumed it was approved. A few months ago Surgeon Yandell came to the Trans Mississippi Department, ordered here as I understand on account of some difficulty with the President on account of General [J. C.] Pemberton. He was assigned to duty by General [E. Kirby] Smith as Medical Director of the Department and it is evident to me that I am expected to report to him and be under his direction. I claim that the order of assignment of Surgeon Yandell is contrary to the tenor of the regulations for the Medical Department. Paragraph ii, Edition of 1863 as the Surgeon General has to recommend the Medical Officer who is to be assigned as Medial Director. [Note: The exact regulation reads, "Medical Directors will be recommended by the Surgeon General, and being approved, will be announced in orders from the Adjutant and Inspector General's Office. They will have the general control of the medical officers and hospitals of their commands."] Surgeon [John Miller] Haden, Chief of the Bureau [Medical Bureau of the Trans-Mississippi Department], who I believe is acting for the Surgeon General in this Department, has not recommended this assignment and indeed has sent me word that as soon as I made the point that Surgeon Yandell was my junior, he would sustain me in the position which I have taken in regard to the injustice of being required to report to my junior in rank. I claim that Surgeon Yandell has not been assigned to duty in accordance with the regulations; that he is my junior in rank, and also that there is no regulation requiring a Medical Director to report to a Medical Director. It is a question of the necessity for a Medical Director of this Department, each Corps or District requires one, but the chief of the Medical Bureau is as I conceive it, the Officer properly at the head of the Medical Corps of the Department. So [is] there not one too many Medical Directors?. Doctor, I feel perfectly willing and anxious to do my duty, but have I not the right to claim some consideration. Since my entrance upon duty in this District, I have never been censured, and after a year and a half of trouble to be treated in this way it is to say the least of it unpleasant. Surgeon Haden on the counsel of General Smith in this Department claimed his rank over Surgeon S. A Smith [Stokes Anderson Smith], General Smith's Medical Director, the point was yielded and up to the time he was appointed Chief of Bureau, he occupied the position. Have I not the right? I have written to General Smith and to Surgeon Haden, Officially in regard to this matter, with a [?no] reply. For this reason I trouble you with this letter. Our Corps proper is small and an account of the many who claim to belong to it who are unworthy of the claim, it is most sadly underrated. I trust you will aid me and if nothing else can be done I hope you will have me ordered out of this Department. If this is done please have me ordered to run the blockade via Havana to Wilmington or Mobile, for otherwise I will be compelled to abandon everything I have here. Hoping you will excuse the liberty I have taken in troubling you with this matter in a private letter. I am, Very respectfully, Your Obt.Servant, J. H. Berrien Since writing the above, I have had returned the letter I addressed to Surgeon Haden with endorsement of General [W. R.] Boggs. My enquiry is not condemned. I send you a copy of my letter with endorsement, also a letter in regard to the Endorsement of General Boggs, from Surgeon Haden. It seems that our Corps is at a low Ebb. [Note: Although the addressee is not identified, it is likely that Dr. Berrien sent this letter to Confederate Army Surgeon General Samuel Preston Moore.]
07/23/1864 - In a letter written by P. Jordan, Asst Surgeon in charge of the Post Hospital, Sabin Pass, Texas, to Surg. J. H. Berrien, Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, "Sir, Certain accusations having been made against me by Col. W. H. Griffin, 21th Infy Comd'g Post of a character calculated to injure my official and private standing, I have the honor to request that a board of officers to constitute a court of Inquiry be appointed to examine into and investigate the administration of the Post Hospital whilst it has been in my charge. That that Board consist of medical officers or at least a majority of them, they being more familiar with and better understanding the conducting of the Hospl. Dept. and what is expected and required of medical officers. I also further request that Col. Griffin being the accusing party will not be permitted in his capacity as Comd'g officer, to appoint the officers to constitute said court of inquiry nor in no other way to have the control of it. I have the honor to be Very Respectfully, your obt svt, P. Jordan, A. Surg in charge Hospl." [Docketing on the back of the letter reads, "Medical Director's Office, Houston, July 27/64 Respectfully referred to Brig. Genl. Slaughter Chief of Staff etc., with the request that the "Court of Inquiry' be called, as requested by Asst. Surgeon Jordan. Information is requested as to the number of Officers that will be required and if Medical Officers can serve. J . H. Berrien, Surg and Med Director."]
08/10/1864 - In a letter written from the Medical Director's Office, Headquarters, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, Houston, TX, to Brig. Gen. James Morrison Hawes, Commanding troops and fortifications on Galveston Island, TX, "Sir, Your communication of the 4th inst. in reference to the employment of Dr. R. Smith as health Officer at Galveston has been received. In reply I would request to state that as yet I have received no official information of Surgeon [Gustavus] Holland having been relieved from duty as health Officer at Galveston, and until such information is received no action can be taken. Should Dr. Wm. R. Smith be willing to accept the position, I would be pleased to contract with him for such duty, when a vacancy occurs. Very respectfully, Your Obt. Servant, J. H. Berrien, Surgeon and Medical Director, Dist. of Texas etc."
10/30/1864 - Surgeon and Medical Director, Anderson, Texas
01/15/1865 - In a letter written from Houston, TX, to Maj. Gen. J. B. Magruder, Commanding, District of Arkansas, "My Dear Genl., When we parted in Shreveport, you asked me to write you, and I promised to do so. I have often recollected my promise, and had I known of anything of interest, to write, I should have written before this. Although I am but a poor letter writer. Tomorrow Yancey [probably, Stephen D. Yancey, formerly Asst. Acting Adjutant General on Gen. Magruder's staff] leaves to [sic - too], and tonight I had set aside a letter to face, and I had hoped to write you a long letter, but Company has interfered with me, and now near mid-night I have seated myself to assure you of my friendship and respect for you. I have often spoken with Yancey of you and believing the assurances of your friendship which you have given me, I do not feel doubtful in assuring you of my great interest in your welfare. I have but few friends, and with those few I seldom make any demonstrations. I sometimes
regret that I did not see more of you while serving on your Staff, and I assure you that it was not from a desire to be considered indifferent. I only feared that amid the numerous visitors you always had, I might at times intrude. Let me assure you that you had no friends more true to your interest, and that no one in Texas admired more you gallant defence of the State. I hope some day that we can meet untrammeled by any military associations when I can feel and offer you friendship on Equal terms. I feel in this war that I in a Corps which is not appreciated and where no distinction offers, and I feel like keeping in the back ground, although I know that I am doing my duty. I wish however that I had the strength ability and health to Enter the line, for I am not satisfied as I am. You have many friends & in Texas and I am often gratified to hear them speak kindly of you. Some however whom you serve are truant to their former allegiance, and ungrateful for your kindness. Such is the world. A change of rulers makes a change in the subjects. I regret that Yancey is about to leave us. I look upon his leaving as the breaking up of the "old dynasty." His friends do not think that he intended any wrong in the letter which caused his removal, and I am assured that Genl. W. [This was probably Maj. Gen. John G. Walker.] has changed very materially from his first impression on reading that letter. I have never spoken with the Genl on this subject. All his Staff are satisfied that Yancey intended nothing wrong. I am glad to be able to write this. Since my return here I have been alternately sick and well. My general health however is better than last Winter. The season is beginning to be gay, and on the 26th we are going to have a grand party. I wish you could be here to give it life. Many persons have said to me that if you could but be here there would be much more life in the parties, and I really believe that. You have many friends among the fair sex of Houston. Some time ago there was a great furor among the citizens of Houston on hearing the news that you would return and there has been great regret at the falseness of the report. Be Kind Enough to remember me kindly to Mrs. Wright and Miss Lilly and to Miss Reardon, and Reyburn and to any of my Arkansas friends. Give my kindest regards to the members of your Staff. If I can Ever serve you Genl you may rest assured of my willingness and friendship. Write me and believe me. Very Sincerely Your Friend, J. Hunter Berrien" [The following is written along the left margin of the last page, "Tell Hermann that he had better return to Texas at once and attend to his female interests. J H B"
00/00/1865 - Emigrated to Mexico and practiced medicine [Note: Maj. Gen. J. B. Magruder also emigrated to Mexico, where he was a Maj. Gen. under Maximilian. It is not clear if Dr. Berrien contacted Maj. Gen. Magruder when they were both in Mexico.]
03/18/1868 - Died from an "accidental chloroform overdose", "taken just as he was about to have a tooth drawn", (buried: 03/19/1868 - Panteon Municipal El Saucito, San Luis Potosi, Mexico; FindAGrave #225475055.) [Sources: 1.) Richmond Southern Opinion, Richmond, VA, May 15, 1868, p. 1; 2.) Obituary of Dr. James A. Berrien [sic - James H. Berrien] (1868) The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, TX, June 3, 1868, p. 2. c. 1.; 3.) Obituary of James Hunter Berrien [1868] Richmond and Louisville Medical Journal. vol. 6, pp. 222 - 223.]

Michael Angelo and Dowser, the createor of this memorial, provided input to this biography.

This biographical sketch is from:
Hambrecht, F. T. & Koste, J. L., Biographical
register of physicians who served the
Confederacy in a medical capacity.
04/11/2022. Unpublished database.
12/27/1835 - Born, Savannah, Chatham Co., GA [Father: John MacPherson Berrien (1781-1856); Mother: Eliza Cecil Hunter (1810-1852)]
02/02/1852 - Mother, Eliza died in Savannah, Chatham Co., GA (buried: Laurel Grove Cemetery North, Savannah, Georgia; FindAGrave #62049805)
1853-1854 - Senior, College of New Jersey, Princeton, NJ (from: Savannah, GA)
1854 - A.M. degree, College of New Jersey, Princeton, NJ [Note: This college subsequently become Princeton, University.]
1855-1856 - Attended, Savannah Medical College, Savannah, GA
01/01/1856 - Father, John, died in Savannah, Chatham Co., GA (buried: Laurel Grove Cemetery North, Savannah, Georgia; FindAGrave #7442066)
1856-1857 - Attended, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA
1857 - M.D. degree, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA (from: Savannah, Chatham Co., GA; preceptor: Dr. C. W. West; thesis: "Yellow Fever")
1857 - Assistant Resident Physician, Blockley Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
06/08/1860 - Appointed Asst. Surgeon, U. S. Army (from: Georgia)
03/07/1861 - In a letter from Montgomery, AL, to Hon. L. P. Walker, Secretary of War [Confederate States of America], "Dear Sir, I present to you the application of Dr. James H. Berrien of the U. S. A. for such appointment in the Medical Staff as you may think him entitled to. Dr. Berrien has been __ __ __ in Washington territory & has therefore been prevented from sending in his resignation, but I am sure he is on his way home. I hope you will consider this as his application. He is in all respects such a man as I take pleasure to recommend., Yours truly, Francis S. Bartow. [Note: Francis S. Bartow was killed at the First Battle of Manassas and was the first brigade commander of the Confederate States to die in combat.]
03/17/1861 - Resigned as Asst. Surgeon, U. S. Army
03/17/1861 - In a letter written from Savannah, GA, to His Excellency Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States of America, "Sir, I have the honor to inform you that I have this day, immediately on my return from Washington Territory, tendered my resignation as Assistant Surgeon in the Army of the United States. I am informed by my Brethen Mr. Bartow, that he has already filed my application at the War Department, for an appointment in the Medical Staff of the Army of the Confederate States. I beg leave now personally to make this application, and to assure you that it gives me great pleasure to tender immediate service to the Government of the Confederate States. I have the honor to be Sir, Your Obt. Servt., J. Hunter Berrien"
03/28/1861-03/30/1861 - As Asst. Surgeon, Confederate States Army, travelled from Montgomery, AL, to Savannah, GA
03/28/1861 - "Actg Asst. Surgeon Jas. H. Berrien will proceed to Savannah, Ga., & report thence by letter to this office" [S.O. 11/1]
03/30/1861 - As "Acting Asst. Surgeon", reported arrival in Savannah, GA
04/12/1861 - Asst. Surgeon, Savannah, GA
04/13/1861 - "Asst. Surgeon James H. Berrien, Medical Department, will proceed to
Pensacola, Florida, and report for duty to Brig. Genl. Bragg, Commanding" [S. O. 22/1]
04/13/1861 - "Special Order No. 22 of to-day from this office, is revoked, and Asst. Surg. James H. Berrien, Medical Department, will report to Brig. Genl A. R. Lawton for duty at Fort Pulaski, Georgia" [S. O. 23/3]
04/26/1861 - "Until further orders, Assistant Surgeon James H. Berrien, C. S. Army, is assigned to duty at Oglethorpe Barracks [Savannah, Georgia]. He will report without delay to the Commanding Officer of the Post. By order of A. R. Lawton, Brig. General,
Commanding" [S.O. No. 6]
05/24/1861 - Appointed Asst. Surgeon, Regular Army of the Confederate States, to rank
from 03/16/1861
06/18/1861 - Relieved from duty in the District of Savannah, and ordered to proceed to
Richmond, VA, and to report to the Surgeon General, C. S. A. [S. O. 57 Dist. of Savannah Gen. A. R. Lawton]
07/09/1861 - In a letter written from the Spotswood House [hotel in Richmond, VA], to
Jefferson Davis, the President of the Confederate States, "Mr. President, Dear Sir, I went this morning to see Genl Cooper in regard to my application, and the application of Dr. J. S. Coleman of Georgia, for appointments as Surgeon and Assistant Surgeon in the Regiment of Cavalry Commanded by Col. Robert Johnston [3rd VA Cavalry] of this city. Genl. Cooper says that he has not the papers and does not know what became of them. I tried to see the Secty. of War but did not succeed. Col. Johnston leaves tomorrow and is most anxious to have me follow him with Dr. Coleman as soon as
practicable. If you will advise me what course to pursue I will be most obliged to you. Very Resp. Your Obt Servt, J. Hunter Berrien, Asst. Surg, C. S. A. P. S. Please be so Kind as to answer me by sending your answer to No. 57 Spotwood. J. H. B."
07/16/1861 - Appointed Surgeon, Provisional Army of the Confederate States
07/16/1861 - Ordered to report to the 3rd VA Cavalry
07/18/1861 - In a letter written on the letterhead of the Confederate States of America,
Surgeon General's Office, Richmond, VA to the Honorable L. P. Walker, Secretary of War, Richmond, VA, "Sir, I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 16th inst informing me of my appointment as Surgeon in a Regiment of Cavalry, P. A. C. S. I desire to know if my acceptance of that appointment will interfere with the Commission I now hold in the permanent Medical Corps of the C. S. Army. In other words will I be permitted to retain my present commission in that corps. I am Sir Very Resp. Your Obt. Servt, J. Hunter Berrien Asst Surg. C.S.A.
07/23/1861 - "Leave of absence for twenty days is granted Surgeon J. H. Berrien, Medical Department, at the expiration of which he will report to the Surgeon General
in this City [Richmond, VA]." [S. O. 104/1]
08/15/1861 - As Surgeon, stationed at Yorktown, VA
11/20/1861 - "The leave of absence granted Surgeon J. H. Berrien, C S. A., by General Magruder, is extended ten days." [S. O. 230/10]
11/27/1861 - Relieved from duty as Surgeon, 3rd VA Cavalry, by order of the Secretary of War and ordered to the Surgeon General's office for assignment
11/28/1861 - Col. Robert Johnston of the 3rd VA Cavalry, Yorktown, VA, asked for the transfer of Surgeon J. H. Berrien
12/05/1861 - "Surgeon J. Hunter Berrien, Provisional Army is assigned to temporary Hospital duty in this city [Richmond, Virginia] and will report to Surgeon Henry F. Campbell in charge of Georgia Hospitals.
12/31/1861 - Confirmed as Asst. Surgeon from GA by the Confederate States Senate
01/01/1862 - As Surgeon, stationed in Richmond, VA
01/30/1862 - Surgeon in charge, 3rd Georgia Hospital, Richmond, VA
02/05/1862 - Confirmed as Surgeon from GA by the Confederate States Senate
03/07/1862 - "Surgeon J. M. Green will relieve from duty Surgeon J. H. Berrien in charge of the 3rd Georgia Hospital in this City [Richmond, Virginia]. Surgeon Berrien, on being relieved, will report to the Surgeon General for instruction" [S. O. 53/11]
03/10/1862 - "Surgeon J. Hunter Berrien will inspect Hospitals and Camps of Genl. [M.] Lovell's Command and make the necessary reports to the Surgeon General" [S. O. 55/16]
03/31/1862 - As Surgeon, stationed in Richmond, VA
06/11/1862 - "Leave of absence for twenty days for the benefit of his health is granted Surgeon J. H. Berrien, Inspector of Camps and Hospitals, Department of South Carolina and Georgia" [S. O. 134/5]
06/17/1862 - "Surgeon J. H. Berrien having declined to accept the leave of absence granted him by the War Department, is hereby ordered to report in person to this office for duty. By Command of the Secretary of War, S P. Moore, Surg. Genl, C. S. A."
06/20/1862-06/25/1862 - Travelled from Savannah, GA, to Richmond, VA, charging the Confederate States $56.10 (561 miles @ 10 cents/mile)
07/10/1862 - "A Board of Examiners to consist of Surgeons J. H. Berrien and Walker Coles, and Assistant Surgeon A. Taylor will be convened to examine and report upon all applications arising in the Department of Henrico for leaves of absence and furloughs on account of ill health and for Discharges in Surgeon's Certificates of disability. Surgeon Berrien will report to the Surgeon General for further instructions" [S. O. 159/11]
10/02/1862 - "Surgeon J. H. Berrien will report for duty to Major General T. H. Holmes, Commanding Trans Mississippi Department at Little Rock, Arkansas" [S. O. 230/36]
12/28/1862 - Announced as Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona
01/31/1863 - Assigned as Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona [Gen. Ord #6]
02/00/1863-01/00/1864 - Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona
02/03/1863 - In a letter written from the Medical Director's Office, Houston, TX, to Capt. E. P. Turner, Asst. Adjutant General, Houston, TX, "Sir, I have the honor to inform you that after a careful inspection of the Medical Purveyor's Department of this Sub District, I find great deficiency in the supply of medicines and Hospital supplies. The Purveyor [Henry Shearer] tells me that he has made requisition for supplies on the Medical Purveyor at San Antonio, but that his requisitions have not been filled, owing he thinks to the fact that the Medical Purveyor at that point has not the supply to answer the demand made upon him. I have to suggest that I may be authorized to instruct Surgeon [Henry Peyton] Howard, Medical Purveyor at San Antonio, if he has not supplies to fill a requisition which will be made upon him by Surgeon Shearer in a short time, to request Maj. Hart at once to contract for sufficient medical and Hospital supplies for one year for 10,000 men, in addition to any other supplies he may need. And that Surgeon Howard be instructed not to allow these supplies to be removed from this District without reference this office. I can refer Maj. Hart to a gentleman who can and will contract with him to furnish Medical Supplies as quickly as practical. For the present I would respectfully request that the Quarter Master be instructed to supply the Medical Purveyor with funds sufficient to make purchases actually necessary for present use. Very respectfully, Yr obt. Svt. J. Hunter Berrien, Surg & Med Director, Dist. Texas"
02/12/1863 - In a letter written from the Medical Director's Office, Headquarters, Houston, TX, to Capt. E. P. Turner, Asst. Adjutant General, "Sir, In this Department I find that there are a number of Physicians who are serving under contract and at the same time are in the ranks as Privates. As this is contrary to all precedent or regulation, I have to request that you will issue an Order directing all Commanders at once to determine contracts made with Privates Soldiers, and also that you will declare such contracts as null and void from the time they were made. Physicians who are in the ranks as privates should be detailed for the purpose of attending the sick and if found competent they can be recommended for appointments from the date of their detail. I wish you would make this statement in your order in regard to this matter. Very Respectfully, Yr. Obt Svt, J. Hunter Berrien, Surg. & Med. Director, Dist. Texas"
02/17/1863 - In a note written from the Medical Director's Office, Houston, TX, to an Asst. Adjutant General, "Capt., Will you please issue an order (and send it to me) to the effect that the Quarter Master at San Antonio will turn over to the Chf. Surg. of his Sub. Dist. Surg. H. P. Howard, for the use of the Med. Dept., two Ambulance teams, drivers &c. complete. 24 mule teams. Respectfully, Yr. Obt. Servt. J. Hunter Berrien, Surg & Med. Dir."
02/28/1863 - Surgeon & Medical Director, Headquarters, Houston, Texas
06/01/1863 - Surgeon & Medical Director, Houston, Texas
07/03/1863 - In a letter written from Houston, TX, to Capt. E. P. Turner, Asst. Adjutant General, Houston, TX, "Sir, I have the honor to call the attention of the Maj. General Commanding to the fact that nearly Every Member of his Staff have for some time past been suffering from fever from Malaria. I would suggest the immediate removal of Head Qtrs. to Piedmont of which place in a former communication I made a Sanitary report. I would also suggest that you state to the Maj. Genl. Commanding that I think his health demands a change of scene and action for at least a week or ten days. This can be had by his visiting Piedmont for this length of time. Even should the press of business forbid the immediate removal of Head Quarters. I feel confident from experience that the waters will be of much service to him. Very respectfully, Your Obt. Servant, J. H. Berrien, Surgeon and Med. Director" Note: Dr. Berrien was probably referring to Piedmont Springs, TX, which is about 50 miles northwest of Houston, and was famous during the Civil War for its sulfur springs.
07/10/1863 - In a letter written from Galveston, TX, to Capt. E. P. Turner, Asst. Adjutant General, "Capt., I am instructed by the Maj. Genl. Comdg, to request you at once to write to Maj Russell at Brownsville, and to instruct him to purchase and pay for the cotton, the invoice of Medicines, etc. submitted by Dr. DeLeon to Maj. Hart and myself in May last. The Genl. directs that these Medical Stores be at once sent to Houston to the Med Purveyor, Surg. Howard Smith. I am Capt,, Very Respty, Your Obt Servt, J. Hunter Berrien, Surg & Med Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona
08/01/1863 - As Surgeon & Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, stationed at Houston, TX
09/21/1863 - In a letter written from Sabin's Pass, TX, to Capt. Ed. B. Turner, Asst. Adjutant General, "Sir, I have the honor to request that an order be issued from your Office, allowing Contract Physicians to purchase from the Commissary and Quarter Masters Department at Government or contract prices. Contract Physicians being Employed to perform the duties of Medical Officers; they cannot be assigned to duty as Medical Officers until they have passed an Examination before an Army Medical Board and such Boards being only appointed from Richmond, Va., necessitates a great delay in this matter. The small amount allowed by the regulations ($100 One hundred Dollars per month.) will not at the present prices subsist a person and unless some measures are taken, I will loose [sic - lose] the services of numerous physicians and those places cannot be filled. In consideration of these facts the issue of the order, as above requested is earnestly enjoined. Very respectfully, Your Obt Servant, J. H. Berrien, Surgeon and Medical Director"
10/31/1863 - As Surgeon & Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, stationed at Houston, TX, under Maj. Genl, J. B. Magruder's Command
11/11/1863 - Surgeon & Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, Houston, TX
12/15/1863 - In a letter written from Columbia, Texas to Edmund P. Turner, Capt. & Asst. Adjutant General, "Sir, I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 14th inst. in referenced to a deficiency of stretchers, for commands in the field and in reply I have to state that if such a deficiency exists, it must be the fault of the Quarter Master's Department, as there is a sufficient number of stretchers in the Purveyor's Department, and the same have been issued to Commands in the field if required by the Medical Officers in their requisitions. I would also state that in addition to these, there was a number turned over to Surgeon Chas. Ganahl, Chief Surgeon of Division among other medical supplies and stores for use as occasion might require. The latter are now at this point in the Quarter Master's store, waiting transportation, as I am informed Surgeon Ganahl has directed them forwarded to the Hd Qtrs in the field. I am Sir, Very respectfully, Your Obt. Servant, J H. Berrien, Surgeon and Medical Director, Dist. Texas etc."
01/19/1864 - Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, Shreveport, LA
06/08/1864 - In a letter written from Houston, Texas to an unknown high level, Confederate physician, "Doctor, I desire to call your attention to the order of assignment of Surgeon [David Wendel] Yandell to duty as Medical Director of this Department [Trans-Mississippi Department] and to ask your aid and advice in regard to the bearing of this Order on my Official position. I beg you to consider this as a private communication as in such a communication I can better explain facts, and also I fear an Official letter sent through intermediate commands will never reach you. For nearly a year and a half I have been Medical Director of this District. As soon as I was assigned to duty I sent you a Copy of the Order, which has never been objected to by you and consequently I presumed it was approved. A few months ago Surgeon Yandell came to the Trans Mississippi Department, ordered here as I understand on account of some difficulty with the President on account of General [J. C.] Pemberton. He was assigned to duty by General [E. Kirby] Smith as Medical Director of the Department and it is evident to me that I am expected to report to him and be under his direction. I claim that the order of assignment of Surgeon Yandell is contrary to the tenor of the regulations for the Medical Department. Paragraph ii, Edition of 1863 as the Surgeon General has to recommend the Medical Officer who is to be assigned as Medial Director. [Note: The exact regulation reads, "Medical Directors will be recommended by the Surgeon General, and being approved, will be announced in orders from the Adjutant and Inspector General's Office. They will have the general control of the medical officers and hospitals of their commands."] Surgeon [John Miller] Haden, Chief of the Bureau [Medical Bureau of the Trans-Mississippi Department], who I believe is acting for the Surgeon General in this Department, has not recommended this assignment and indeed has sent me word that as soon as I made the point that Surgeon Yandell was my junior, he would sustain me in the position which I have taken in regard to the injustice of being required to report to my junior in rank. I claim that Surgeon Yandell has not been assigned to duty in accordance with the regulations; that he is my junior in rank, and also that there is no regulation requiring a Medical Director to report to a Medical Director. It is a question of the necessity for a Medical Director of this Department, each Corps or District requires one, but the chief of the Medical Bureau is as I conceive it, the Officer properly at the head of the Medical Corps of the Department. So [is] there not one too many Medical Directors?. Doctor, I feel perfectly willing and anxious to do my duty, but have I not the right to claim some consideration. Since my entrance upon duty in this District, I have never been censured, and after a year and a half of trouble to be treated in this way it is to say the least of it unpleasant. Surgeon Haden on the counsel of General Smith in this Department claimed his rank over Surgeon S. A Smith [Stokes Anderson Smith], General Smith's Medical Director, the point was yielded and up to the time he was appointed Chief of Bureau, he occupied the position. Have I not the right? I have written to General Smith and to Surgeon Haden, Officially in regard to this matter, with a [?no] reply. For this reason I trouble you with this letter. Our Corps proper is small and an account of the many who claim to belong to it who are unworthy of the claim, it is most sadly underrated. I trust you will aid me and if nothing else can be done I hope you will have me ordered out of this Department. If this is done please have me ordered to run the blockade via Havana to Wilmington or Mobile, for otherwise I will be compelled to abandon everything I have here. Hoping you will excuse the liberty I have taken in troubling you with this matter in a private letter. I am, Very respectfully, Your Obt.Servant, J. H. Berrien Since writing the above, I have had returned the letter I addressed to Surgeon Haden with endorsement of General [W. R.] Boggs. My enquiry is not condemned. I send you a copy of my letter with endorsement, also a letter in regard to the Endorsement of General Boggs, from Surgeon Haden. It seems that our Corps is at a low Ebb. [Note: Although the addressee is not identified, it is likely that Dr. Berrien sent this letter to Confederate Army Surgeon General Samuel Preston Moore.]
07/23/1864 - In a letter written by P. Jordan, Asst Surgeon in charge of the Post Hospital, Sabin Pass, Texas, to Surg. J. H. Berrien, Medical Director, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, "Sir, Certain accusations having been made against me by Col. W. H. Griffin, 21th Infy Comd'g Post of a character calculated to injure my official and private standing, I have the honor to request that a board of officers to constitute a court of Inquiry be appointed to examine into and investigate the administration of the Post Hospital whilst it has been in my charge. That that Board consist of medical officers or at least a majority of them, they being more familiar with and better understanding the conducting of the Hospl. Dept. and what is expected and required of medical officers. I also further request that Col. Griffin being the accusing party will not be permitted in his capacity as Comd'g officer, to appoint the officers to constitute said court of inquiry nor in no other way to have the control of it. I have the honor to be Very Respectfully, your obt svt, P. Jordan, A. Surg in charge Hospl." [Docketing on the back of the letter reads, "Medical Director's Office, Houston, July 27/64 Respectfully referred to Brig. Genl. Slaughter Chief of Staff etc., with the request that the "Court of Inquiry' be called, as requested by Asst. Surgeon Jordan. Information is requested as to the number of Officers that will be required and if Medical Officers can serve. J . H. Berrien, Surg and Med Director."]
08/10/1864 - In a letter written from the Medical Director's Office, Headquarters, District of Texas, New Mexico, & Arizona, Houston, TX, to Brig. Gen. James Morrison Hawes, Commanding troops and fortifications on Galveston Island, TX, "Sir, Your communication of the 4th inst. in reference to the employment of Dr. R. Smith as health Officer at Galveston has been received. In reply I would request to state that as yet I have received no official information of Surgeon [Gustavus] Holland having been relieved from duty as health Officer at Galveston, and until such information is received no action can be taken. Should Dr. Wm. R. Smith be willing to accept the position, I would be pleased to contract with him for such duty, when a vacancy occurs. Very respectfully, Your Obt. Servant, J. H. Berrien, Surgeon and Medical Director, Dist. of Texas etc."
10/30/1864 - Surgeon and Medical Director, Anderson, Texas
01/15/1865 - In a letter written from Houston, TX, to Maj. Gen. J. B. Magruder, Commanding, District of Arkansas, "My Dear Genl., When we parted in Shreveport, you asked me to write you, and I promised to do so. I have often recollected my promise, and had I known of anything of interest, to write, I should have written before this. Although I am but a poor letter writer. Tomorrow Yancey [probably, Stephen D. Yancey, formerly Asst. Acting Adjutant General on Gen. Magruder's staff] leaves to [sic - too], and tonight I had set aside a letter to face, and I had hoped to write you a long letter, but Company has interfered with me, and now near mid-night I have seated myself to assure you of my friendship and respect for you. I have often spoken with Yancey of you and believing the assurances of your friendship which you have given me, I do not feel doubtful in assuring you of my great interest in your welfare. I have but few friends, and with those few I seldom make any demonstrations. I sometimes
regret that I did not see more of you while serving on your Staff, and I assure you that it was not from a desire to be considered indifferent. I only feared that amid the numerous visitors you always had, I might at times intrude. Let me assure you that you had no friends more true to your interest, and that no one in Texas admired more you gallant defence of the State. I hope some day that we can meet untrammeled by any military associations when I can feel and offer you friendship on Equal terms. I feel in this war that I in a Corps which is not appreciated and where no distinction offers, and I feel like keeping in the back ground, although I know that I am doing my duty. I wish however that I had the strength ability and health to Enter the line, for I am not satisfied as I am. You have many friends & in Texas and I am often gratified to hear them speak kindly of you. Some however whom you serve are truant to their former allegiance, and ungrateful for your kindness. Such is the world. A change of rulers makes a change in the subjects. I regret that Yancey is about to leave us. I look upon his leaving as the breaking up of the "old dynasty." His friends do not think that he intended any wrong in the letter which caused his removal, and I am assured that Genl. W. [This was probably Maj. Gen. John G. Walker.] has changed very materially from his first impression on reading that letter. I have never spoken with the Genl on this subject. All his Staff are satisfied that Yancey intended nothing wrong. I am glad to be able to write this. Since my return here I have been alternately sick and well. My general health however is better than last Winter. The season is beginning to be gay, and on the 26th we are going to have a grand party. I wish you could be here to give it life. Many persons have said to me that if you could but be here there would be much more life in the parties, and I really believe that. You have many friends among the fair sex of Houston. Some time ago there was a great furor among the citizens of Houston on hearing the news that you would return and there has been great regret at the falseness of the report. Be Kind Enough to remember me kindly to Mrs. Wright and Miss Lilly and to Miss Reardon, and Reyburn and to any of my Arkansas friends. Give my kindest regards to the members of your Staff. If I can Ever serve you Genl you may rest assured of my willingness and friendship. Write me and believe me. Very Sincerely Your Friend, J. Hunter Berrien" [The following is written along the left margin of the last page, "Tell Hermann that he had better return to Texas at once and attend to his female interests. J H B"
00/00/1865 - Emigrated to Mexico and practiced medicine [Note: Maj. Gen. J. B. Magruder also emigrated to Mexico, where he was a Maj. Gen. under Maximilian. It is not clear if Dr. Berrien contacted Maj. Gen. Magruder when they were both in Mexico.]
03/18/1868 - Died from an "accidental chloroform overdose", "taken just as he was about to have a tooth drawn", (buried: 03/19/1868 - Panteon Municipal El Saucito, San Luis Potosi, Mexico; FindAGrave #225475055.) [Sources: 1.) Richmond Southern Opinion, Richmond, VA, May 15, 1868, p. 1; 2.) Obituary of Dr. James A. Berrien [sic - James H. Berrien] (1868) The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, TX, June 3, 1868, p. 2. c. 1.; 3.) Obituary of James Hunter Berrien [1868] Richmond and Louisville Medical Journal. vol. 6, pp. 222 - 223.]

Michael Angelo and Dowser, the createor of this memorial, provided input to this biography.

This biographical sketch is from:
Hambrecht, F. T. & Koste, J. L., Biographical
register of physicians who served the
Confederacy in a medical capacity.
04/11/2022. Unpublished database.



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  • Maintained by: bioengineer
  • Originally Created by: Dowser
  • Added: Apr 9, 2021
  • Find a Grave Memorial ID:
  • Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/225475055/james_hunter-berrien: accessed ), memorial page for Dr James Hunter Berrien (27 Dec 1833–18 Mar 1868), Find a Grave Memorial ID 225475055, citing Panteón Municipal El Saucito, San Luis Potosi, San Luis Potosí Municipality, San Luis Potosi, Mexico; Maintained by bioengineer (contributor 47026824).