Surgeon Colin ARROTT, sworn and examined:—
I am acting assistant surgeon at this place; have been here over two years. When I first came here the water used for drinking was rain water, and after I came here the water was brought from the Brandywine, in casks by sloops. I cautioned all the prisoners that came here against drinking the water of the Island, as it was unhealthy. They would frequently persist in doing it, although there was fresh water provided for them. They did this to save themselves from the trouble of going about a hundred yards for fresh water. They would dig little wells for the water, a few inches deep; I think that water produced sickness, though I frequently cautioned them, and at different times. This was two years ago.
For a year the water has been brought here in large quantities by boats. There are 30,000 gallons of water brought here now a day, besides what rain water is caught. There is now, and always has been, as far as I know, a full supply of water on the island.
COLIN ARROTT,
Acting Assistant Surgeon.
Sworn to and subscribed before me,
June 21st, 1864.
D. P. BROWN, JR.,
United States Commissioner.
Certification for statements taken June 21, 1864 (There was only one certification for this date in the document; however it is being included on the web-page for each applicable statement - MpG ):
I certify that the foregoing testimony, taken at Fort Delaware, June 21st, 1864, was taken and reduced to writing by me, in the presence of the respective witnesses, and by them sworn to and subscribed in my presence, at the time and in the manner set forth.
D. P. BROWN, JR.,
United States
Commissioner.
Evidence evidence relating to United States stations for rebel prisoners. Testimony taken at Fort Delaware, Delaware, June 21, A.D. 1864.