John W. Baker Papers

1882-1954, undated (bulk 1882-1920); 1882-1920
Manuscript Collection #788
Portions of this collection are digitized (1 item)
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Creator(s)
Baker, John W.
Physical description
0.5 Cubic Feet, 1 archival box
Preferred Citation
John W. Baker Papers (#788), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
Repository
ECU Manuscript Collection
Access
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Papers (1882-1954, undated [bulk 1882-1920]) of U. S. Navy surgeon, including correspondence, reports, and miscellany.

Biographical/historical information

John W. Baker, a native of Aurora Indiana, served as a surgeon and lieutenant in the United States Navy. He was officially commissioned as a surgeon on January 21, 1897. While in the Navy, Baker served at the Boston Naval Hospital, the U.S. Naval Hospital, Chelsea, MA, the U.S. Naval Hospital, Yokohama, Japan, and in various recruiting stations. He also served on several warships, including the USS WABASH, USS MONOCACY, USS DETROIT, USS JUNIATA, USS KEARSAGE, USS MICHIGAN, USS MONITOR NANTUCKET and the USS PALOS. He received a Victory Medal and Button for his service in WW I, as well as a Spanish Campaign Medal for his service in the Spanish-American War.

In addition to his routine surgical duties, Baker also conducted studies of diseases among naval personnel and peoples in Latin America, China and Japan, and traveled extensively while overseas to further his research. In early 1897, while in Central America, he fell seriously ill and was forced to recuperate for several months in a naval hospital. During the same period, Baker also filed a legal claim of difference in the rate of pay allowed to him on "waiting orders" versus shore duty pay. The case eventually went all the way to the U.S Court of Claims in 1902 before being settled.

Over the next few years, Baker served in varying capacities with the Navy, changing his residence more than once. At one point, he was placed on a retired list and later reinstated for duty. Although the official year of Baker's retirement is not evident, there is correspondence between him and the Navy personnel department as late as 1954.

Scope and arrangement

The papers consist of correspondence, reports, and miscellany, and have been retained in their original order. For a detailed list of the materials, refer to the container list. Much of the material consists of Baker's correspondence with the Navy and his attorneys regarding his efforts to obtain compensation for his travel expenses and for the difference between his shore pay level and the sea duty pay level that he claimed. Also included is a 1902 U.S.Court of Claims petition related to the same pay dispute.

Other correspondence consists of letters from Baker's past patients and parents of officers who were discharged and in his care. Of particular interest is correspondence (1887) regarding the treatment of a scalp wound by Dr. J.B. Cordeiro and the apparent controversy regarding his technique. One letter is from Cordeiro to Baker asking if he can send a sworn statement of what he witnessed to the medical examining board. Baker was working with Cordeiro at the Navy Recruiting Station in Boston at the time of the incident. Also of interest is a letter (1888) from Third Class Apprentice Henry Bentley to Dr. Baker. In the letter, Bentley mentions the fact that he has been locked up for six days and is very sad. He also asks for forgiveness and to be set free from his incarceration. The letter is signed "Your Obeinted Servent [sic]" by Bentley. Also included is correspondence (1917) regarding the death of Apprentice Seaman George T. Hughes. Hughes went missing from his ship, the USS KEARSARGE, and was first reported as a deserter. Later, it was determined that he apparently fell overboard and drowned. Baker was consulted on the case.

Also present is a small amount of personal correspondence from Baker. These include letters (1883) written while aboard the USS JUNIATA to his brother, sister and mother. Specifically, in the letter to his sister, Baker describes the many places in Asia he has visited while on duty, including various descriptions of local scenes, including women's dress. In a letter to his brother, Baker mentions the wonder of the museums in the Boston area and the possibility of them going together. Also mentioned is the mutual interest of outdoor activities such as canoeing. Baker also discusses his great interest in nature, including his own observations and those of naturalist authors.

Administrative information
Custodial History

November 3, 1999, 175 items, .50 cubic feet; Papers (1882-1954, undated [bulk 1882-1920]) of U.S. Navy surgeon, including correspondence, reports, and miscellany. Purchased with The Sara S. Batten Special Collections Endowment Fund

Source of acquisition

Purchased with The Sara S. Batten Special Collections Endowment Fund

Processing information

Processed by Megan G. Atkins, March 21, 2007

Processed by Dale Sauter, June 16, 2008

Encoded by Apex Data Services

Copyright notice

Literary rights to specific documents are retained by the authors or their descendants in accordance with U.S. copyright law.

Key terms
Personal Names
Baker, John W.
Corporate Names
United States. Navy--Medical care--China
United States. Navy--Medical care--Japan
United States. Navy--Medical care--Latin America
United States. Navy--Medical care--Massachusetts
United States. Navy--Pay, allowances, etc.
United States. Navy--Surgeons
Topical
Spanish-American War, 1898--Medical care
World War, 1914-1918--Medical care
Container list
Box 1 Folder a Item 1 Baker, J. V. Letter (4/26/1888) to Charles M. Shellay, Fourth Auditor, Treasury Department enclosing his original orders to the USS WABASH, Boston, Mass., and claiming the difference between "Other Duty" and "Sea Duty." 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 2 Baker, John V. Letter (8/21/1888) to Commodore W.P. McCann, Commodore U.S. Naval Hospital, Chelsea, MA requesting one week leave of absence. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 3 Baker, John V., USS MONOCACY, 3rd rate (1/7/1889) Draft statement of traveling expenses from U.S. Naval Hospital, Chelsea, MA to San Francisco, CA. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 4 Boston City Hospital Letter (9/20/1887) saying that they cannot find the name "Garcelon" among their recent admissions. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 5 Brucker, O. F. Letter (5/14/1887) to Dr. Baker regarding U.S. Navy Yard library books. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 6 Cordeiro, J. B. Letter (7/6/1887) to Dr. Baker regarding his difficulties with the Board. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 7 Haveley, J. M. Postcard (10/7/1887) to Dr. Baker asking for delivery of a medical book. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 8 Massachusetts Medical Society, Boston, MA. Letter (10/8/1887) to Dr. Baker thanking him for sending the corrected list of professional confreres at present attached to the Marine Hospital service at this station. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 9 Mckisson and Robbins Wholesale Druggists and Manufacturing Chemists, New York, NY. Letter (10/8/1887) to Dr. Baker regarding circulars on cocaine, strophanthus, salol, naphthalin, and nitrate strychnine for treatment of dipsomania. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 10 Naval Medical Examining Board, Naval Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Letter (7/9/1887) asking Dr. Baker whether he had received questions about Dr. Cordeiro's case. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 11 Navy Department Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Washington, D.C. Letter (5/9/1882) from H. Hudson, noting Baker's success before the Board. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 12 Navy Department Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Washington, D.C. Letter (11/12/1890) from J. Mills Browne, Surgeon General, U.S. Navy, acknowledging receipt of Baker's illustrated report on cholera in Japan accompanying your Report of Sick for 3d Quarter 1890. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 13 Navy Department Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Washington, D.C. Letter (11/10/1891) from Philip S. Wales, Medical Director, Museum of Hygiene, granting Dr. Baker permission to transfer a microscope to his relief. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 14 Orders (12/30/1889) transferring Dr. Baker from the USS PALOS, 4th rate, Nagasaki, Japan, to the U.S. Naval Hospital, Yokohama, Japan. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 15 Port of Norfolk State of Virginia Bill of Health (9/13/1882) for USS MONITOR NANTUCKET. 1 item 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 16 Russell, Ella A. Letter (3/4/1887) to Dr. Baker regarding her son's discharge. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 17 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (8/23/1882) replying that it does not appear his account was transferred to this office. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 18 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (1/9/1884) agreeing to substitute the name Mrs. Elizabeth Baker as attorney in your allotment in the place of Henry R. Baker (deceased). 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 19 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (7/30/1886) acknowledging claim difference of pay. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 20 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (8/19/1886) informing Baker that his claim for the difference of pay has been settled showing a balance of $354.79 allowed. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 21 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (5/19/1888) returning a letter from the Secretary of the Navy dated July 15, 1886. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 22 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (2/4/1889) returning original orders with your claim for difference of pay. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 23 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (2/14/1889) informing Dr. Baker that his claim for travel expenses resulting from his orders of 9/11 & 10/5/1888 has been settled showing a balance of $5.00. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 24 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (8/12/1889) informing Baker that his claim for traveling expenses will be examined. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 25 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (4/3/1890) acknowledging claim from traveling expenses. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 26 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (5/6/1890) returning original orders for traveling expenses. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 27 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (6/30/1890) informing Baker that his claim for traveling expenses between Yokohama, Japan to Chemalfoo, Korea under orders of 5/6/1889 has been audited and $16.48 allowed. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 28 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (7/21/1890) returning original orders for traveling expenses. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 29 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (8/8/1890) stating that Baker became entitled to pay as in your second five years term on July 6, 1890. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 30 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (10/17/1890) acknowledging claim from traveling expenses. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 31 U.S. Navy Pay Office Washington, D.C. Letter (1/21/1891) forwarding a check for $16.48 to Baker. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 32 U.S. Navy Yard, Pay Office, Boston, MA. Letter (7/15/1887) to Baker asking him to sign his account. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 33 U.S. Navy Yard, Pay Office Boston, MA. Letter (9/7/1887) enclosing check for $50.00 for advance of pay. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder a Item 34 Wilson, F. A. Chief Engineer Note (4/16/1887) to Dr. Baker asking him to call. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 1 Navy Department, Washington, D.C. Orders (1/26/1892) to Dr. Baker to report to USS WABASH, Boston, MA. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 2 Navy Department Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Washington, D.C. Letter (2/20/1892) from Dr. Van Ruyper to Dr. Baker, with thanks from "a very happy boy." 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 3 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (3/14/1892) to Dr. Baker, referring to his claim for traveling expenses from Shanghai, China to San Francisco. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 4 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (3/15/1892) to Dr. Baker returning his orders from the USS PALOS. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 5 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (3/26/1892) to Dr. Baker informing his that his claims for traveling expenses from Yokohama, Japan to San Francisco, CA have been audited and allowed in the amount of $244.64. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 6 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (4/22/1892) to Dr. Baker, referring to his claim for traveling expenses from Shanghai, China to San Francisco. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 7 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (2/4/1892) to Dr. Baker, saying that his claim for traveling expenses will be considered. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 8 Navy Department Washington D.C. Orders (12/17/1892) to Dr. Baker to report for duty on board the USS WABASH, Boston, MA. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 9 U.S. Navy Pay Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (5/6/1893) to Dr. Baker forwarding check for mileage in the amount of $1.76. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 10 Navy Department Washington D.C. Letter (5/6/1895) to Dr. Baker appointing him to be recorder of medical board. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 11 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, DC. Letter (3/5/1897) appointing Dr. Baker a Surgeon, with the rank of Lieutenant, from 1/21/1897. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 12 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, DC. Letter (2/25/1897) to Dr. Baker seeing no objection to his transfer to the USS DETROIT. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 13 Navy Department Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Washington, DC. Letter (3/24/1897) to Dr. Baker regretting his illness. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 14 Blair, John S., Attorney at Law, Washington, D.C. Letter (6/9/1897) to Dr. Baker concerning his claim for sea pay. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 15 Navy Department Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. Personal letter (7/2/1897) from J. C. Boyd, Surgeon, U.S. Navy, to John W. Baker, regarding his illness. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 16 Baker, John W., U.S. Naval Hospital, Mare Island, CA. Letter (7/24/1897) to Commandant, requesting two weeks leave. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 17 Navy Department Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. Personal letter (7/27/1897) from J. C. Boyd, Surgeon, U.S. Navy, to John W. Baker, regarding his illness & temporary duty on the West Coast. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 18 U.S. Navy Pay Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (9/1/897) to Dr. Baker regarding his claim for $115.62. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 19 U.S. Navy Yard, Washington, DC. Letter (11/1/1897) to Dr. Baker returning copies of original orders. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 20 U.S. Navy Pay Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (11/8/1897) to Dr. Baker returning copies of original orders. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 21 U.S. Navy Yard, Washington, DC. Letter (11/10/1897) to Dr. Baker returning copies of original orders. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 22 Blair, John S., Attorney at Law, Washington, DC. Letter (5/26/1898) to Dr. Baker regarding rejection of his claim for mileage from San Francisco, CA to Mare Island. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 23 Baker, John W., Surgeon, U.S. Navy, Letter (6/21/1898) to John S. Blair, Attorney at Law, Washington, D.C., regarding his fee for working on his case. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 24 Blair, John S., Attorney at Law, Washington, DC. Letter (6/25/1898) to Dr. Baker acknowledging receipt of documents concerning his claim for mileage from San Francisco, CA to Mare Island, CA. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 25 Blair, John S., Attorney at Law, Washington, DC. Letter (8/31/1898) to Dr. Baker acknowledging receipt of check for $24.08 in payment of his fee. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 26 U.S. Naval Recruiting Rendezvous, USS MICHIGAN, Erie, PA. Letter (8/31/1898) from Lt. Jerome E. Morse, to Chief of Bureau of Navigation, praising Surgeon John W. Baker, et. Al. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 27 Navy Department, Washington, DC. Orders (9/10/1898) to Dr. Baker to report to U.S. Naval Recruiting Rendezvous, Chicago, IL. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 28 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, DC. Letter (10/3/1898) to Dr. Baker granting him permission to change his residence from Aurora, Dearborn County, IN, to Los Angeles, CA. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 29 Blair, John S., Attorney at Law, Washington, D.C. Letter (1/3/1899) to Dr. Baker advising that his services be dispensed with and returning documents. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 30 Treasury Department Office of Comptroller of the Treasury, Washington, DC. Letter (8/12/1899) to Dr. Baker enclosing the decision of this office in Baker's appeal from the disallowing of his claim for the difference between sea pay and shore duty pay form May 16 to Sept. 1, 1898. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 31 Treasury Department Office of Comptroller of the Treasury, Washington, D.C. Decision (8/10/1899) In the Matter of the Claim of John W. Baker, Surgeon, U.S. Navy (Retired), for Difference of Pay for Service on the MICHIGAN. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 32 Treasury Department Office of Auditor for the Navy, Washington, DC. Letter (8/21/1899) to Dr. Baker informing his that his claim for difference between other duty and sea pay, from May 16 to Sept. 1, 1898 has been settled, and the sum of $119.45 allowed. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder b Item 33 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, DC. Letter (10/30/1899) to Dr. Baker granting him permission to change his residence from Los Angeles, CA to Aurora, IN. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 1 Office of the Collector of Customs, Port of Boston, Letter (2/14/1901) to Dr. Baker reporting arrival of Mr. Baker's goods. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 2 U.S. Navy Yard Boston Mass. Letter (3/14/1901) confirming room for Mr. Baker at this yard to store his personal affects. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 3 Bureau of Navigation, Navy Department, Washington, D.C. Letter (11/27/1901) to Dr. Baker granting him permission to change place of habitual residence to Boston, MA. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 4 Navy Department, Washington, D.C. Letter (11/7/1902) to John W. Baker from Chas. H. Darling Acting Secretary requesting him to report to the Commandant, Navy Yard, Boston MA for duty as the relief of Medical Director G.F. Winslow U.S.N. and to the Marine Recruiting Rendezvous for duty as the relief of Medical inspector J.R. Waggener. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 5 Navy Department, Washington, D.C. Letter (11/7/1902) to John W. Baker from Chas. H. Darling Acting Secretary requesting him to report to the Commandant, Navy Yard, Boston, MA for duty as the relief of Medical Director G.F. Winslow U.S.N. and to the Marine Recruiting Rendezvous for duty as the relief of Medical inspector J.R. Waggener. 1 item. 1 p. Note: Copy of #788.1.c.4
Box 1 Folder c Item 6 Navy Department, Washington, D.C. Letter (11/12/1902) to John W. Baker from Fred L. Fishback requesting acknowledgment of the receipt of your letter on the behalf of Mr. H.D. Lamar of Aurora, IN who is an applicant for admission to the Pay Corps of the Navy. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 7 Treasury Department Office of Auditor for the Navy Department, Washington, DC. Letter (3/9/1903) to Dr. Baker regarding the settlement of his claim for the difference between sea pay and shore pay of his grade from May 16 to September 1, 1898 in the sum of $119.45. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 8 Navy Department, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Washington, D.C. Letter (6/6/1903) to Dr. Baker indicating that a bill in Congress will give John W. Baker increased rank, and giving him information to contact Senator Henry Cabot Lodge. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 9 Navy Department, Washington, DC. Letter (10/27/1903) to Dr. Baker giving John W. Baker authorization to seek the passage of a law providing him promotion on the retired list from surgeon with the rank of lieutenant to surgeon with the rank of lieutenant commander. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 10 Navy Department, Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Letter (8/31/1904) to Dr. Baker granting leave of absence for one month. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 11 Navy Department, The Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D.C. Letter (2/19/1908) to Dr. Baker indicating that upon the report of John W. Baker's relief he will regard himself detached from Duty at the Marine Recruiting Station and will continue with other duties. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 12 Navy Department, Washington, D.C. Letter (7/9/1908) to Dr. Baker requesting full local address from the date of John W. Bakers arrival home and the date of his arrival to the Bureau of Navigation. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 13 Navy Department, H. O. McCann, Washington, D.C. Personal letter (10/14/1912) from an unknown source indicating that the Bureau does not order officers to duty on the Ranger. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 14 Navy Yard, Boston, MA Dispatch (3/23/1917) to John W. Baker with instructions to report to the Navy Yard in Boston for temporary duty. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 15 Boston Navy Yard Office of the Commandant. Letter (6/13/1917) requesting the delivery of a telegram, regarding the death of a Navy officer George T. Hughes, and requesting instructions from John W. Baker. 6 items. 6 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 16 First Naval District, Boston Navy Yard, Commandant. Telegram (6/15/1917) to Theresa M. Roberts next of kin notifying her of the death of her son, George T Hughes; John W. Baker's copy, receipt envelope. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 17 First Naval District Boston, MA Letter (4/23/1918) appointing John W. Baker as a member of a general court martial. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 18 Treasury Department, Washington, D.C. Letter (7/1/1918) to Dr. Baker regarding Baker's pay for service on the active list has been received. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 19 Boston Navy Yard General Court Martial Room. Letter (7/18/1918) from John W. Baker to Commandant, First Naval District, requesting that he be granted three days leave of absence. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 20 First Naval District Office of the District Medical Aide, Boston, MA. Letter (7/25/1918) to all medical officers regarding the handling of health records. 2 copies. 2 items. 3 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 21 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Letter (7/25/1918) to John W. Baker attaching copy of orders detaching him from Naval Recruiting Station, Boston, MA. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 22 Treasury Department Auditor for the Navy, Washington, D.C. Letter (9/5/1918) to John W. Baker's noting that his claim for difference of pay is on file. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 23 Navy Department, Washington, D.C. Letter (9/6/1918) to Dr. Baker offering him Advancement in rank to Lt. Commander on the Retired List in accordance with the Act of July 1, 1918. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 24 Boston Navy Yard, Office of the Commandant. Letter (9/16/1918) to Dr. Baker forwarding their endorsement of his advancement in rank to Lt. Commander on the Retired List in accordance with the Act of July 1, 1918. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 25 Baker, John W., Boston Navy Yard General Court Marital Room. Letter (9/23/1918) to the Commandant First Naval District, requesting fifteen days of leave of absence. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 26 Boston Navy Yard Office of Disbursing Officer. Letter (1/2/1919) to Dr. Baker, regarding pay accounts changing for increased rank. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 27 Treasury Department Office of Comptroller of the Treasury, Washington, D.C. Letter (1/30/1919) to Dr. Baker disallowing his claim for difference of pay on account of five years constructive service, is affirmed and a certificate of no differences will issue. 1 item. 4 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 28 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Letter (9/2/1919) to Dr. Baker detached him from the Navy Yard, Boston, MA to home, John W. Baker relieved from all active duty. 1 item. 6 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 29 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Letter (9/11/1919) to Dr. Baker agreeing to his request to be retained on active duty and that his orders for release from active duty have been revoked. 1 item. 1 p,
Box 1 Folder c Item 30 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Memorandum (9/25/1919) for the General Court Martial Board. Commander George W. Denfeld died at the Battle of Creek Sanitarium and the Body will be buried at Westboro, MA. This was addressed to this board in case any members wish to attend. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 31 Boston Navy Yard General Court Martial Room. Memorandum (12/29/1919) regarding to orders for John W. Baker release from General Court Martial Duty. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 32 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Letter (12/12/1919) to Dr. Baker retaining John W. Baker on active duty. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 33 Department of the Navy Office of the Judge Advocate General, Washington, D.C. Memorandum (12/29/1919) commending work of court martial. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder c Item 34 Department of the Navy Office of the Judge Advocate General, Washington, D.C. Letter (9/18/1919) from Geo. R. Clark, Rear Admiral, U.S.N. to A. S. Snow, Rear Admiral, U.S.N., Navy Yard, Boston, MA regarding his attempt to retain John W. Baker on duty for as long as possible. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 1 Boston Navy Yard Office of Disbursing Officer. Letter (1/7/1920) to Dr. Baker regarding his reimbursement for mileage. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 2 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Letter (3/25/1920) to Dr. Baker, regarding the Victory medal and Button for service in the war with Germany. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 3 Rhoads, Henry E., Newton Centre, MA. Letter (9/23/1920) to Dr. Baker regarding his claim for credit of 5 years constructive service. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 4 King and King, Attorneys and Counselors at Law, Washington, D.C. Letter (2/17/1921) to Dr. Baker asking for permission to retain the papers in John W. Baker's case. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 5 War Department Office of the Quartermaster General of the Army, Washington, D.C. Letter (8/8/1921) to Dr. Baker suspending the assignment of his lot in Arlington National Cemetery. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 6 Treasury Department Bureau of War Risk Insurance, Washington, D.C. Letter (12/12/1921) to Dr. Baker, advising him to complete form 724 enclosed so that the bureau my file the names of the beneficiaries. 2 items. 6 p. Note: Includes duplicate set of application forms
Box 1 Folder d Item 7 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Letter (12/4/1923) to Dr. Baker, regarding the War Slate for Retired Officers of the Navy. Letter requests officers to fill in the attached cards and send them to the Bureau of Navigation. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 8 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Letter (1/13/1925) to John W. Baker regarding Adjusted Compensation of credit for service during World War I. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 9 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Letter (4/2/1925) to Dr. Baker addressing the computation of longevity pay for retired officers who served on active duty. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 10 U.S. Navy Yard Boston, MA to Washington, D.C. Letter (4/18/1925) to Dr. Baker addressing retired pay. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 11 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation Washington, D.C. Letter (4/29/1925) to Dr. Baker addressing the war slate for retired officers of the Navy. Requesting completion of the attached cards and send them to the Bureau of Navigation. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 12 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Letter (4/30/1925) to Dr. Baker informing him of the World War Adjusted Compensation Act. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 13 King and King, Law Offices, Washington, D.C. Letter (11/10/1933) to Dr. Baker advising him that the Rhoades case had no application to his claim. 1 item. 4 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 14 Cox, Wolfe, et al., 2nd Cutter Crew, Chelsea, MA. Letter (undated) to Mr. Wood, Medical Officer, USS WABASH asking permission to take John W. Baker on board the steamer; clipping regarding "Injustice in Army Pay." 2 items. 4 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 15 Retired Officers Association, San Francisco, CA. Letter (undated) to officers who retired prior to 7/1/1922 and who were deprived of the benefits of the Act of 6/10/1922. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 16 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation Washington, D.C. Letter (undated) to Dr. Baker requesting him to report his present address. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 17 Veterans Administration Life Accounts Division, Washington, D.C. Letters (12/13/19481/3/1949) to John W. Baker informing of his request for information regarding a claims voucher and insurance benefits on his life insurance policy K517 316; Duplicate copy. 3 items. 4 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 18 Navy Department Field Branch Bureau of Supplies and Accounts, Cleveland, OH. Letter (2/2/1949) to Dr. Baker regarding his retired pay account; Power of Attorney form. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder d Item 19 Department of the Navy Bureau of Naval Personnel, Washington, D.C. Letter (2/3/1954) to Dr. Baker regarding the Spanish Campaign Medal. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 1 Baker, John W. Letter (9/9/1883) to his sister from the USS JUNIATA. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 2 Baker, John W. Letter (9/11/1883) to his brother Fred from the USS JUNIATA. 1 item. 4 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 3 Baker, John W. Letter (11/19/1883) to his mother form the USS JUNIATA
Box 1 Folder e Item 4 Baker, John W. Letter (undated) to his brother Fred. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 5 Hawke, C. N., USS ESSEX, Navy Yard, New York. Letter (7/17/1886) to Dr. Baker, USS Wabash. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 6 Hoar, Sherman, Attorney and Counselor at Law, Waltham, MA. Letter (11/1/1886) to John W. Baker regarding his fever attacks. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 7 Carl, Rufus, Letter (2/18/1887) to John W. Baker. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 8 Chapman, C. H. Letter (3/8/1887) to John W. Baker. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 9 Carl, Rufus, Letter (3/9/1887) to John W. Baker. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 10 Russell, Ella A. Letter (3/20/1887) to Dr. Baker regarding her son. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 11 Van Ruyper, N. K. Letter (5/16/1887) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 12 Bradley, Laura J. (Mrs.) Letter (6/24/1887) to Dr. Baker regarding his treatment of her son. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 13 Cordeiro, F. J. B. Letter (7/9/1887) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 14 Cordeiro, F. J. B. Letter (7/12/1887) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 15 Corns, S. J. Letter (9/7/[1887]) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 16 Prall, John W. Letter (9/21/1887) to John W. Baker from the Massachusetts General Hospital. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 17 Iverson, Andrew J. Letter (10/24/1887) Letter to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 18 Iverson, Andrew J. Letter (1/23/1888) Letter to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 19 Roche, James A. Letter (2/13/1888) to John W. Baker at the Naval Hospital in Chelsea, MA 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 20 Iverson, Andrew J. Letter (2/20/1888) Letter to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 21 Cordeiro, F. J. B. Letter (3/2/1888) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 22 Pruth, John W., Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Letter (3/6/1888) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 23 Bentley, Henry. Letter (3/26/1888) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 24 Butterworth, James. Letter (10/25/1889) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 25 Baker, John W. Report of the condition of Mr. Vail, a patient (4/19 - 4/20/1890) 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 26 T., H. Letter (5/13/[1880s]) to "Dear Doctor". 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 27 Corns, S. J. Letter (1/22/[1887]) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 28 Cordeiro, F. J. B. Telegram (7/15/1888) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 29 McCarty, Rufus H. Telegram (4/26/1888) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder e Item 30 McCarty, Rufus H. Telegram (9/7/1887) to Dr. Baker. 1 item. 3 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 1 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (4/30/1885) to John W. Baker while stationed on the USS Juniata in Japan U.S. reimbursement. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 2 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (9/14/1882) to John W. Baker while stationed on the USS Juanita in Japan U.S. reimbursement. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 3 U.S. Navy Pay Office Washington, D.C. Letter (10/5/1888) to Dr. Baker, regarding payment in John W. Baker's honor. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 4 U.S. Navy Pay Office Washington, D.C. Letter (1/14/1889) to Dr. Baker, regarding payment in John W. Baker's honor. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 5 Treasury Department Fourth Auditor's Office, Washington, D.C. Letter (2/14/1891) to John W. Baker informing him that his claim for difference of pay has been audited. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 6 List of expenses in Korea (9/2/1890) made by John W. Baker, marked paid in full. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 7 Baker, John W. Letter (2/2/1892) to James R. Lynch Fourth Auditor of the Treasury regarding a claim for travel expenses.1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 8 Statement of Account (6/30 - 8/31/1897) of John W. Baker's personal finances. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 9 Transfer of property (undated) at U.S. Naval Recruiting Station Chicago, IL received from J. W. Baker. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 10 U.S. Navy Pay Office Washington, D.C. Letter (6/2/1898) to Dr. Baker regarding miscellaneous pay. 1 item.1 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 11 U.S. Navy Yard Pay Office, Boston, MA. Letter (4/30/1888) to Dr. Baker enclosing check for $28.00. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 12 U.S. Naval Recruiting Station, Chicago, IL. Transfer of property (9/5/1898) of items received from A. M. Moore, signed by Dr. Baker. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 13 Navy Department, Washington, D.C. General Orders No. 151-152 (1915) Clipping. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 14 Navy Department. Voucher for Commutation of Quarters and Heat and Light (undated) Printed form. 1 item. 1 p. Note: Blank form
Box 1 Folder f Item 15 Boston Navy Yard Office of the Disbursing Officer. Pay Officer (1917-1918) Table used in Connection with Voucher for Commutation of Quarters and Heat and Light. Printed. 2 copies. 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 16 Connell, W. W. Letter (11/23/1948) to Dr. Baker, regarding payment of his leases in Hertford County, NC. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder f Item 17 Pay differential calculation (7/6 - 8/31[1897]) John W. Baker. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder g Item 1 Court of Claims of the United States, John W. Baker vs. The United States. Petition filed December 15, 1902. On November 5, 1897 John W. Baker claims he was placed on the retired list for incapacity resulting from incident of service. Printed court record (12/15/1902). 1 item. 19 p
Box 1 Folder h Item 1 Baker, John W. travel record (1882-1884) 1 item. 2 p
Box 1 Folder h Item 2 Receipt (5/16/1887) for receipt of registered letter require signature. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder h Item 3 Navy Department Bureau of Navigation, Washington, D.C. Return to Duty (undated) printed form. Blank. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder h Item 4 USS WABASH. Programme of events (2/2/1892). Printed. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder h Item 5 Patient diagnoses note cards (1887) with types of symptoms for illnesses. 1 item. 43 p
Box 1 Folder h Item 6 U.S. Naval Radio Service, Boston, MA. Telegram Endorsement (6/17/1917) announcing the loss overboard of Seaman George T. Hughes from the USS KEARSAGE. 2 items. 2 p
Box 1 Folder h Item 7 Vogel, F. W., M.D., Dover. Prescription (undated) for Mr. Voris. 1 item. 1 p
Box 1 Folder h Item 8 Report on the Fitness of Officers Navy Regulations Form B for John W. Baker (12/19/1892) Signed by Jas. O'Kane, Captain, U.S.N. Copy Notes by John W. Baker on his response. 2 items. 2 p