Collections

The collection consists primarily of the correspondence of Wesley "Lee" Bouslog, with 106 letters and envelopes dated from December 31, 1917 to May 21, 1918. The first letter describes his arrival at the Camp, and thereafter, the often lengthy letters detail Bouslog's life as a soldier, including descriptions of his daily meals and routines, and maintenance tasks. The letters provide a glimpse into camp life, with Bouslog relating that more than twenty states were represented in his Barracks, as well as several different nationalities, including Irish, Scottish, and Jewish. According to the letters, soldiers enjoyed entertainment, including films and concerts at the Camp theater, and also received educational benefits on-base such as schooling. Due to a lack of initial transportation for the early soldiers on base, there are few references to visits to the City of Jacksonville and vicinity. As a result, many activities took place in the YMCA building on Camp grounds. Letterhead on Bouslog's stationery includes: "With the Colors" YMCA; National War Work Council, Army and Navy, Young Men's Christian Associations; and Camp Joseph E. Johnston Jacksonville, Florida. Printed materials in the collection include postcards, a souvenir folder (depicting 22 views of the Camp), and oversize photographs of the Camp's soldiers. The collection provides printed and visual documentation of the Camp's activities and development from 1917 to 1918, which signal the beginning of a significant military presence in the Jacksonville region.