Medical Records

Texas 1877

Cranston was described as 37 years old, 5’11’, with dark hair and dark eyes. He described that in the summer of 1864 he suffered from a rupture in the right groin, descending into the scrotum. This occurred during the Sherman campaign from Chattanooga to Atlanta, and was due to overexertion. Cranston was treated by regimental surgeons.

January 29, 1879 Surgeon General’s Office

GH Washington DC August 20, 1862: Cranston was treated for typhoid fever, transferred(?) August 31, 1862. He entered GH Portsmouth Grove RG September 3, 1862 with typhoid fever, and returned to duty September 19, 1862.

July 6, 1883 Testimony of M R Morgan

Morgan reports that during the early part of Cranston’s service, he had no rupture. During the Atlanta campaign, Cranston wore a support and frequently adjusted it. After the March to the Sea/return to Louisville camp, Morgan observed how much worse the hernia had become. He reported that Cranston attributed it to weight worn around the waist, and that he complained about carrying cartridge. Cranston discussed the necessity of asking for discharge from service. Morgan finished with describing Cranston as “a brave and good soldier, and no shirk when duty was to be performed.”

Pension claim May 24, 1893

Right inguinal hernia that comes into the scrotum and is difficult to replace, and difficult to retain with a truss. The direct right inguinal hernia opening in external ring admits third finger. Hernia external ring comes into scrotum. Tumor is 2/2 x 5” in size. Cranston described as having “no vicious habits”.