The San Francisco Civil War Round Table Meeting 16th June 2011
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The meeting started with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Winchell Hayward.
The members gave an enthusiastic welcome to visitors and newcomers, including Bob Hill, Darrell
Van Ness, and Sherrie Lee.
The final raffle for books was held, adding to the prize fund for the Sesquicentennial Essay Contest.
In answer to a question from Gary Yee, the President confirmed that the prize fund had been fully
covered financially.
Coralee Thomson, Bob Bowen, David Thomson checking a winning ticket
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Patrick Doyle announced that the Ormond Eckley Memorial Award, normally presented in
December, would be presented this night to Gary Yee who is leaving shortly to take up a
teaching position in Colorado. The award was presented by Secretary Wayne Padgett who
spoke of Gary's many valuable contributions to the Round Table, including acting as President and
Program Chair, and being a principal organizer of the 2010 West Coast Civil War Conference.
Gary Yee receives the 2011 Ormond Eckley Memorial Award from Wayne Padgett
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Pursuant to the By Laws, the Election of Officers for the 2011 - 2012 season was held.
The nominees were:
President Patrick Doyle
Vice President Steve Harrington
Treasurer Joan Keller
Secretary Wayne Padgett
Program Chair Bob Bowen
Bob Quinn moved that the proposed slate be elected as nominated. This motion was seconded
and passed unanimously.
President Doyle gave a PowerPoint report on the Sesquicentennial Essay Contest, which had
been a resounding success. Members were treated to photos of the thrilled young winners
receiving their prize checks. The President pointed out that great thanks were due to all who had
contributed to the prize fund raffle, donated cash, or participated in the promotion and judging for
the contest.
Guest speaker David Thomson gave a well
researched presentation on Oliver Otis Howard,
often called "The Christian General." Despite being
disliked by so many of his colleagues and
subordinates because of his rather puritanical ways,
Howard managed to pursue a career that only ended
in 1909.
In 1862 he lost his right arm at the battle of Fair
Oaks.
Although best known for his humiliating defeats at
Chancellorsville and Gettysburg, he rose to the rank
of Major General, headed the Freedman's Bureau in
1865 and founded Howard University in 1867.
After the Civil War he commanded in the West and
had notable success in the Indian Wars, including the
capture and surrender of Chief Joseph of the Nez
Perce.
An animated question and answer session allowed
Thomson to display his considerable knowledge of
this often over-looked historical personality.