Dr. Edward Lauderdale

After the 24th Michigan was assigned to duty at Camp Butler, it was allowed to recruit itself back up to full strength. The regiment was already short one assistant surgeon, due to Dr Collar's resignation. After Dr. Beech resigned in April, 1865, it became imperative that the regiment receive additional medical staff.

According to Curtis (p. 297)
As the days and weeks passed by, the improper drainage of this prairie camp (really no drainage at all), and it muddy and filthy conditions, had their natural effect upon the health of the men. In some respects, Camp Butler was more unpleasant and its duties more arduous than at the front, and officers and men sighed for their Petersburg winter quarters. The sickness of the men continued and the insufficient hospital accommodations made matters worse, so that thirty-three of its number had died, mainly from disease contracted in this unhealthy place.

Once Dr. Beech resigned, only Dr. Towar remained with the Regiment. A civilian contract physician named Webb, who was actually assigned to care for all of the recruits, also provided medical care to the growing number of sick Michigan soldiers. Dr Webb's skill were highly regarded, and Lt. Colonel Edwards petitioned the Governor and Adjutant General to have Dr Webb commissioned Assistant Surgeon in the 24th.

Rather than appoint an out of state surgeon, the State Adjutant General decided to appoint a Michigan man instead. Dr. Edward Lauderdale, a Detroit physician, was appointed 2nd. Assistant Surgeon on April 11, 1865 to rank from March 30, 1865.

Dr. Lauderdale joined Regiment at Camp Butler, Illinois, where seems to have given good service. He mustered out with the Regiment on June 30, 1865.

The photograph above is believed to depict Dr. Lauderdale. Please note the rank of lieutenant on his shoulder straps.

Dr. Edward Lauderdale died in Detroit on April 16, 1883.

The above image is courtesy of the State Archives of Michigan and is used with permission