The Manchester journal. [volume] (Manchester, Vt.) 1861-current, 1917-11-08
CAMP DEvENS AS SEEN
BY A CIVILIAN VISITOR

II The building Of Camp Dcvens. locas-
cd at Aver, Mass. was n mighty un-
dcrtaking, and. while there is still
much to be done, the work is progress
sing rapidly. There are hundreds Of
laborers working every day in the
week making roads. putting up build
ings, and doing everything to make
an area Of nearly nine thousand acres
of land which a short time ago was
covered with timber and underbrush,
into camp that will comfortably
accommodate $4,000 soldiers. The
camp is seven miles long, two miles
wide, and has an area Of $500 acres.
When completed there will be l,400
buildings, 20 miles Of roads, 400 miles
of electric wiring, 60 miles Of heating
pipes, and 1900 shower baths. APP
proximately 100000 board feet Of
lumber will have been used.
The barracks at present are quito
uncomfortable because Of the lack Of
heat. The work Of getting the heat
into these buildings, however, is being
rushed and will probably be soon COM
pleted. The men are well supplied
with blankets and, while it is rather
cold upon arising these frosty morn
ings, they take it all with stiff upper
lip.
There are Ia Y. M. c. A. buildings
now in operation at the camp, nine OF
which are fully equipped TO meet the
all-round needs of the men. In these
buildings are provided writing tables
and stationery, library and reading
room, educational classes and lectures,
recreational and athletic games,
movies and other entertainments, in
spirational talks and religious meet
ings. Here the men find much COM
fort. There is also an auditorium
that will accommodate 5000 persons
in which famous singers and speakers
of national reputation entertain the
soldiers.
/ found the "boys" from Vermont all
well and in good spirits; and all of the
Manchester contingent were mighty
glad to meet an acquaintance from
home.
That very few Of these men are en-
joying the situation is apparent, but
| heard no complaints. l heard moth
ing but praise for the officers Of the
Vermont troops. Every man there IL
a gentleman and the rowdy is conspic-
uous by his absence. While their sit
uation is extremely irksome To a great
many of the boys believe that all can
rest assured that not one Of them will
be found wanting when called To go
over the top.
One Of the greatest joys Of their
camp life is getting mail from home;
and many heart is made light and
happy when box Of goodies is re-
,eived, as all present share in the con-
tents and certainly do enjoy it. Don't
forget TO write to the boys often, and
\ box occasionally will help TO make
hem happier.
The sight of a friend or relative
from home brings tears Of joy to the
Eyes of many Of the boys and they
.ush up to clasp your hand, even IL
you be of only slight acquaintance.
rhe men and officers will also use
very means available to help visitor
ocate a friend or relative stationed
here. 1t is best, however, to get n
ouch with the party you wish to visit
It the camp; find out his location and
ct him know when TO expect you that
le may be on the lookout. Otherwise
,our visit might be in vain. When
he size Of the camp and the number
# men stationed there are taken into
consideration it will not be wondered
It that it is almost impossible TO find
my particular person there except by
ONLY A VOIITNTEER