October 12, 1862, Nashville Dispatch (Tennessee)
To the Editor of the Nashville Dispatch.
In this cold and inclement “spell” of weather, with the prospect of a severe winter just ahead of us, the question is asked by every one, “How are we to get fuel?”
With no earthly chance of procuring coal at present, if at all, during the winter, we must use wood instead, if it can be procured. As business is prostrated, and all industrial pursuits paralyzed by the effects of the war, there are very few house-keepers in the city able to pay the exorbitant prices asked for wood; and even if they were, the supply is not equal to one-fourth of the demand. The question is a serious one, in view of these facts, and if any practical plan can be devised to remedy the evil, it ought at once to be put in execution.
Is it possible for the civil and military authorities to make some arrangement to supply the city with fuel the coming winter, at living prices, and yet not at an expense to these authorities? Why cannot a number of negroes be detailed to chop wood and haul it in at a price which will be cheap to the consumer, and yet more than pay all expenses for chopping, hauling and selling? Or what plan can be devised to secure the object, and protect the poor? The authorities, it is hoped, will solve the problem, and prevent suffering.
W.