I have a letter dated back to October 9th, 1862, to Rebecca O'Bar, written by a William Cox, stating that Marion Wilson O'Bar had passed due to salivation. We are trying to find out information on Marion Wilson O'Bar, if he was indeed a soldier of the Civil War, etc. We have been told he was, but Camden, Arkansas, did not show any record of his passing, even though the letter states he died in Camden Hospital, September 12, 1863.
The family and myself are interested in how he died. Was Salivation due to a wound? Was he a soldier? Which side? Did Civil War medicine include the use of Mercury? Is that what caused his flesh to be eaten off the side of his face and neck. Any information would greatly be appreciated.
Below is the letter as written by William Cox.
Oct the 9th A Y 1863
Camp Mitel Hemsted County Ark
Mrs. Obarr I can in form you that there is a man hair that is rite from the hospital at Cameden and he says that he waited on Marion Obarr he says that died the 12th of September. he said that his death was caused by salivation he was very bad off for about fifteen days the flesh was all eat off of the side of his face and neck. He said he was prepaired to dye. he said he had no fear after death at all. I am very sorry to write this to you but the nurse has come and the boys has pict on me to write it to you I do simpathise with you I am very well preparied to simpathise with one in such a case So I will close
William E Cox
to Rebecca Obarrr