Of the four cases of small-pox, three recovered, the other resulting fatally. The remaining eighteen having been detained a sufficient length of time, and no disease having appeared, were thoroughly cleansed and discharged. With the exception of the above-mentioned cases, the Island has been entirely free from sickness since May 28th, 1873. The comparative freedom of the Island, for the past two or three years, from disease, has given a good opportunity for the development of the land and improvement of the buildings. New buildings have taken the place of old, worthless ones, and nearly all the land has been brought into a fair state of cultivation. The following is a list of the principal articles of produce and the quantity grown: Table vegetables, such as string-beans, green corn, green peas, lettuce, etc., of which no account has been made, were grown in quantities to liberally supply the wants at the Island and on the steamer "Samuel Little." The dairy has furnished all the milk used on the Island and steamer; and has made nearly butter enough to supply the Island for the year. The stock on the Island consists of one horse, two oxen, two cows, and a heifer. Among the improvements of the year may be mentioned the digging out and bricking up under the barn, making a Very convenient barn cellar. The grading, also, has added greatly to the general good appearance of the Island. A very neat and substantial building, 35 feet by 18, has just been completed by the overseer, Capt. Ranlett. This building furnished us with very convenient and much-needed carpenter, blacksmith, and paint shops. The steamer "Samuel Little" has run for the has run for the year without any extensive repairs; and we consider her good for the ensuing year. Captain W. H. Sampson, who has filled well the position of commander of the above-named steamer for the past two years, resigned April 15th, 1876. Captain G. T. Ranlett, a former commander, has been appointed his successor. We are indebted to Col. J. C. Whiton, Superintendent of the Deer Island Institutions, for many favors granted during the year. Dr. C. Irving Fisher, to whom I have been under pleasant obligation since my connection with the department, resigned the office of Port Physician, September 15th, 1875, to enter private practice. He carried with him the highest regards and best wishes of the officers of this department. Dr. Thomas Kittredge was appointed Assistant Port Physician, September 15th, 1875. It is sufficient to say that his previous experience in the department warrants his efficiency in the future. It gives me pleasure, in submitting this report, to acknowledge my indebtedness to those with whom I have been associated in the discharge of my duties; and to thank them for their faithful co-operation; and especially to you, gentlemen, for your counsel and recognition at all times. Very respectfully, ALONZO S. WALLACE, M. D., Port Physician. APRIL 30th, 1876. |