Son of Daniel and Elizabeth Powers Whiting
Husband of Indiana Belle Sanford Whiting
Our great, great, grandfather - Daniel Powers Whiting. Loving husband to Indiana Sanford Whiting.
Father to:
Susan Elizabeth Whiting - 1836
Florida Whiting - 1838
Isabella "Belle" Lee Whiting - 1839
Jessie Whiting - 1841
Mary Brainerd Whiting - 1842
George Griffin Whiting - 1844
Richard Gatlin Whiting - 1848
Indiana Whiting (baby) - 1849 Mother and baby died two days after birth due to medical complications.
Military History
Cadet at the Military Academy, July 1, 1828, to July 1, 1832, when he was graduated and promoted in the Army to
Bvt. Second Lieut., 7th Infantry, July 1, 1832.
Served on frontier duty at Ft. Gibson, I. T., 1833; Instructing,(Second Lieut., 7th Infantry, Dec. 15, 1833)
recruits at Newport, Ky., 1833‑35; in Ordnance Bureau at Washington,D.C., January 1 to Mar. 22, 1836; on Recruiting service, 1836‑37; on frontier(First Lieut., 7th Infantry, June 8, 1836)
Duty at Ft. Gibson, I. T., 1837‑39; in the Florida War, 1839‑42; on Recruiting service, 1842; in garrison at New Orleans Barracks, La., 1843, — Pass Christian, Mis., 1843, — New Orleans Barracks, La., 1843‑44, 1844‑45, and Ft. Pickens, Fla., 1845.
Served in Military Occupation of Texas,(Captain, 7th Infantry, Apr. 18, 1845),1845‑46.
In the War with Mexico, 1846‑47, being engaged in the Defense of Ft. Brown, May 3‑9, 1846, — Battle of Monterey, Sep. 21‑23, 1846, — Siege of Vera Cruz, Mar. 9‑29, 1847 — and Battle of Cerro Gordo, Apr. 17‑18, 1847; on Recruiting service, 1847‑48; in garrison
(Bvt. Major, Apr. 18, 1847, for Gallant and Meritorious Conduct in the Battle of Cerro Gordo, Mex.)
Served at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1848‑49; in Florida Hostilities against the Seminole Indians, 1849‑50; in garrison at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1850, — Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., 1850, — and Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1850‑51; on frontier duty at Ft. Towson, I. T., 1851‑53, 1853‑54,a — Ft. Arbuckle, I. T., 1854‑57, — and Ft. Washita, I. T., 1857‑58; in garrison at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1858.
Frontier duty on Utah Expedition, 1858‑59, — and Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., 1859; and on sick leave.(Major, 10th Infantry, Dec. 20, 1860)
Served during the Rebellion of the Seceding States, 1861‑65; in command of Ft. Garland, Col., July 9, 1861, to July 26, 1862; as Member of Board of Examination at Annapolis, Md., Aug. 1, 1862, to Oct. 14, 1863;Lieut.‑Colonel, 6th Infantry, Feb. 15, 1862)
(Retired from Active Service, Nov. 4, 1863, for Disability, resulting from Long and Faithful Service, and from Sickness and Exposure in the Line of Duty)
In command of Ft. Mifflin, Pa., Mar. 1 to Nov. 30, 1864.
Civil History. — Author of "Army Portfolio," a series of lithographed views illustrative of the Mexican War, 1849.
http://penelope.uchicago.edu/Thayer/E/Gazetteer/Places/America/United_States/Army/USMA/Cullums_Register/689*.html
DANIEL P. WHITING
Died, August 2, 1892, at Washington, D.C., aged 84.
See page 410, Cullum's Biographical Register of Offices and Graduates of the United States Military Academy. Born in New York; appointed from New York in 1828. Military history : Cadet at United States Military Academy from July 1, 1828, to July 1, 1832 ; appointed Second Lieutenant Seventh Infantry, July 1, 1832.
Extract from the Washington Post, August 1892 :
"Death of Colonel Whiting.–A Retired Army Officer passes Away at the Advanced Age of Eighty-four.–On Tuesday morning about 8.30 o'clock Colonel D. P. Whiting, one of the oldest Army officers on the retired list, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Mary B. Saunders, 1209 F Street Northwest. Colonel Whiting had been a resident of Washington for the past twenty years, where, though a constant invalid, he enjoyed a large circle of friends, attracted to him by his bright and cheery disposition, which was unvarying through years of suffering.
He was born in Troy, N. Y., in 1808, and entered West Point at the age of nineteen. After graduating he was in 1832 appointed Second Lieutenant in the Seventh Infantry, and served on frontier service for a year, after which he was ordered to Washington, where he remained till 1836, when he was again ordered West and served in the Indian Territory till the breaking out of the Indian War in Florida in which he took an active part, and was ordered to New Orleans at the close of the outbreak in 1843. He received his promotion to a Captaincy in 1845, and served for a year on garrison duty in Texas, but on the declaration of the War with Mexico he went to the front and served with distinction in the defense of Fort Brown, the battle of Monterey, the siege of Vera Cruz, and for gallantry and coolness in the battle of Cerro Gordo was made Brevet Major. After a year of garrison duty in
Missouri at the close of the Mexican War he again took part in the Indian fighting in Florida, and served through the Seminole War. From this time on he alternated between garrison and frontier duty, taking part on the Utah expedition in 1858-59, and 1860, while on sick leave, caused by exposure in the field, he was transferred to the Tenth Infantry with the rank of Major. At the breaking out of the Civil War he was made Lieutenant-Colonel of the Sixth Infantry but on account of ill health took no active part in the War, but was retained on garrison duty in the West and in Pennsylvania, and served a portion of the time on Examining Board at Annapolis. In 1863 he was retired from active service on account of disability resulting from long and faithful duty, service, and exposure in the line of duty.
As a literary man Colonel Whiting's principal work was 'The Army Portfolio,' a series of lithographic views and descriptions taken through the Mexican War.
Colonel Whiting was eighty-four years old July 31st, 1892 two days before his death.
He leaves a family of two sons and four daughters and numerous grandchildren.
The funeral will take place from his late home on Thursday at five o'clock, and the interment will be at Arlington."
In addition to the military record of the late Daniel Power Whiting, Lieutenant-Colonel, U. S. A., it is deemed fitting to give some account of his social and private life.
His retirement from active service, due to his inability to mount and dismount his horse without aid, was grievous blow, as he was a thorough soldier, and efficient officer, and most enthusiastic and zealous in all that related to his military duties, especially, at that thrilling and stirring time of the War of 1861-5. He was beloved by his soldiers, whom he ever treated with the consideration not incompatible with military discipline. He was never addicted to intemperance, nor profanity, and was like a friend and counselor to the men of his command. After being in command at Fort Mifflin, Pa., in 1864, he resided in Philadelphia, where he had many friends and relatives. October, 1872, he removed to Washington, where he made his home, with exception of the few years of his visits to his daughter Belle (Mrs. T. Boyd Edelin), living near Marboro, Md., and with his son ("Dick") Richard Gatlin Whiting near Hyattsville, Md., a suburb of Washington. Since August 1, 1884, he resided at 2109 F Street, Northwest, Washington City, with his daughter Mary (Mrs. T. M. Saunders), in the house of his grand-son-in-law, Richard McAllister, where he had every comfort, and the love and respect and attention he so well deserved. The bright, sunny and breezy room, filled with his favorite books and pictures, was most enjoyable to him, and to all who visited him. Afflicted with "locomotor-ataxia" and totally unable, for many years, to walk, he was most comfortable in the wheeled-chair he had used since 1873. While thus a prisoner in one room, unable to take part in the outside world, none ever heard him repine or complain; ever cheerful, contented, amiable and sweet-tempered, always pleased to receive his visitors, whom he charmed by his talk of "Auld Lang Syne," his fund of anecdote, and the old songs he still could sing so sweetly, even after he was eighty.
In his earlier days he was unsurpassed for his charm of manner, his conversational powers, his many resources of mind and talent. His taste were superior, his ideas exalted; a poet and artist, his verses and pictures were most pleasing. Music was the chief charm of his nature. Choice in his reading, he had the pet authors, "Scott," "Bulwer," "Lever," "Ike Marvel," and others of the older school, whom he preferred to read over again to the newer writers of the later days. "Bitter Sweet," "Lorna Doone," "Ben Hur," "Under Two Flags," "Living or Dead," "My Novel," "What Will He Do With It," were among his favorite books. The last book he read was Marie Corelli's "Romance of Two Worlds," (a tale of this and the spirit world). Never coarse, never vulgar, he gave an example of culture and refinement, and was spoken as a true type of "The old gentleman of the olden school." He kept a diary, from the time he left West Point in 1832, making his last entry on Sunday, July 24, 1892. This "Diary" was often authority for settlement of disputed points, and "vexed questions" that arose in the family. While at Camp Floyd, in 1858-59, he wrote an autobiography up to that time, for his youngest daughter, then Miss Mollie, now the widow of the late Thomas M. Saunders, Captain Third U.S. Artillery, who now has charge of all his books and papers, and who purposes by aid of them some day to write the history of life to its close, for the gratification of his family and friends. He was most unselfish; ever thoughtful how to benefit, and was generous to a fault, helping all who ever appealed for aid, devoting his life and his money to the succor, and for the welfare of his children, reserving but a moiety for his own personal needs. He had no business talent, never succeeded in any schemes, or efforts to obtain pecuniary advantages. Thus he had only his salary as an Army Officer, and had no property whatever to leave except his books, pictures, papers and diary, which are only of value to his children.
After losing his wife in 1849 he never re-married, but devoted himself to his children, by whom he will ever be held in tenderest memory, as having been the dearest, best, most loving and generous father, and knowing too, that he was considered by all who knew him, as a most lovely character.
Of a long-lived family he reached great age, free from pain or sickness, and with but slight loss of mental ability.
His father, Judge Daniel W. Whiting, lived to be eighty-seven; his mother was seventy-nine; grandparents were ninety-five and one hundred and five. A brother, Wm. Bradford Whiting, who was a Commodore United States Navy, died in 1883. A surviving brother is (now seventy-two years of age) Henry L. Whiting, United States Coast Survey. Four daughters and two sons and their families, making in all twenty-eight, left to mourn for him.
His wife was "Indiana Sanford," daughter of Major Alfred Sanford, of Covington, Kentucky, granddaughter of old Major Tom Martin. She died, aged thirty-five, May 25, 1849, beloved, admired and mourned for by many. She was buried at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, and some day her remains will be brought to Arlington to mingle with his. Of her General Sherman used to say : "She was the pride of the Army," and old Dr. Dougall spoke of her as being "The grandest woman in America." Many now living can recall her beauty and grace and loveliness, and how she and he (her husband) were noted and admired for their domestic happiness, their personal attractions; a pair so congenial, so well-mated, that they were quoted as perfect example of connubial bliss.
Truly his lot was bitter and his state forlorn when he was bereft of her loving companionship. Long and truly did he mourn her, and in later life never wearied in recalling all her merits to her children.
Colonel Whiting contracted whooping-cough in June 1892, from contact with his little grandchildren. From this he would have recovered had not the excessive heat of that never-to-be-forgotten summer prostrated him, so that he took to his bed Tuesday, July 26, just one week before his death. He was perfectly conscious of his condition, and save when he slept would look about him, knowing those with him, and understanding all that was said and done. As his tongue was paralyzed he could not speak, but could make himself understood by loving ones so familiar with his wishes and tastes, and who interpreted the expression of his eyes. He was most docile in his obedience to Dr. Wm. Mercer Sprigg and his nurses to the last, lovable and serene and patient. While unable to swallow and take nourishment, he suffered no pain. Motionless he lay as the tide of his life gently and slowly ebbed away. Several times during the last nights he lifted his eyes to the faces of the watchers by his bedside and a beautiful smile showed his recognition of them. Peacefully and gently as he had lived so he died, looking until the end into the eyes of those dear to him. No doubt as to the future was seen in his eyes, and as the end came he appeared to fall asleep.
His daughters Sue, Belle, and Mary, and his son Dick, and several adult grandchildren and dear friends watched his closing hours. Gentle and painless he breathed his last at 8:30 o'clock Tuesday morning, August 2, 1892.
On Sunday, July 31st, his family and friends gathered to celebrate his eighty-fourth birthday. As he listened to their singing of his favorite songs his eyes brightened and his hands kept time in the old, familiar way.
He appreciated fully his condition and understood the hymns and prayers, receiving the Holy Sacrament (from the Rev. Clarernce W. Bispham) to his peace and comfort, his loving people uniting with him in that holy and solemn hour, to be of sweet remembrance to all whop participated on that sacred occasion. From his childhood he had been a believer in the Christian religion ; reared by Presbyterian parents he was never a doubter or scoffer, but ever earnest and reverent in regard to all things holy and sacred, although making but little protestation or outward observance of religion. By those privileged to know him intimately, especially during the last twenty years of his life, he was considered exemplary and saintly. A most noble and loving nature, that life of seclusion and self-denial, made due amends for all errors and follies of earlier years ; whatever of sins he may have been conscious of, were most truly repented, and surely forgiven, as his beautiful death testified.
He was ever regarded as a handsome man, in his Cadet days called "Dan Cupid." Was dignified and stately in bearing, and elegant in appearance, a "grand old man." In death he was most beautiful, looking twenty years younger, and as if he were but asleep.
Owing to the great heat of July and August many friends were absent from the city, and thus failed to behold the sweet, peaceful beauty of his face, or to attend him to his burial.
As the funeral cortege, on its way to beautiful Arlington, passed through Fort Meyer, the casket enwrapped in the flag he loved so well, was saluted by the soldiers, was received and lowered into the grave by soldiers, just as the sun went down. And, as "taps" was sounded, it seemed fitting that his tired, worn body, should be laid to rest and to sleep in the midst of soldiers, within sound of the bugle's call and drum's tattoo. His soul had sped away to the realms of bliss, where, he no longer is old and feeble, but ever young and buoyant and free, and we love to think of him as re-united to the soul of his young wife. He revels in all the glorious delights prepared for such as he.
One of his favorite hymns comes now to memory :
"The world recedes, it disappears;
Heaven opens on my eyes ; my ears
With sounds seraphic ring :
Lend, lend, your wings ; I mount ! I fly !
O Grave, where is thy victory,
O Death, where is thy sting !"
Mary B. Saunders.
May, 2016, we brought soil I had collected from Indiana's grave at Jefferson Barracks to Arlington and spread it over his Daniel's grave, headstone and the graves of his daughters, Susan and Mary.
Peace be with you always - Your great, great, grandson, Roger C Whiting
Husband of Indiana Belle Sanford Whiting
Our great, great, grandfather - Daniel Powers Whiting. Loving husband to Indiana Sanford Whiting.
Father to:
Susan Elizabeth Whiting - 1836
Florida Whiting - 1838
Isabella "Belle" Lee Whiting - 1839
Jessie Whiting - 1841
Mary Brainerd Whiting - 1842
George Griffin Whiting - 1844
Richard Gatlin Whiting - 1848
Indiana Whiting (baby) - 1849 Mother and baby died two days after birth due to medical complications.
Military History
Cadet at the Military Academy, July 1, 1828, to July 1, 1832, when he was graduated and promoted in the Army to
Bvt. Second Lieut., 7th Infantry, July 1, 1832.
Served on frontier duty at Ft. Gibson, I. T., 1833; Instructing,(Second Lieut., 7th Infantry, Dec. 15, 1833)
recruits at Newport, Ky., 1833‑35; in Ordnance Bureau at Washington,D.C., January 1 to Mar. 22, 1836; on Recruiting service, 1836‑37; on frontier(First Lieut., 7th Infantry, June 8, 1836)
Duty at Ft. Gibson, I. T., 1837‑39; in the Florida War, 1839‑42; on Recruiting service, 1842; in garrison at New Orleans Barracks, La., 1843, — Pass Christian, Mis., 1843, — New Orleans Barracks, La., 1843‑44, 1844‑45, and Ft. Pickens, Fla., 1845.
Served in Military Occupation of Texas,(Captain, 7th Infantry, Apr. 18, 1845),1845‑46.
In the War with Mexico, 1846‑47, being engaged in the Defense of Ft. Brown, May 3‑9, 1846, — Battle of Monterey, Sep. 21‑23, 1846, — Siege of Vera Cruz, Mar. 9‑29, 1847 — and Battle of Cerro Gordo, Apr. 17‑18, 1847; on Recruiting service, 1847‑48; in garrison
(Bvt. Major, Apr. 18, 1847, for Gallant and Meritorious Conduct in the Battle of Cerro Gordo, Mex.)
Served at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1848‑49; in Florida Hostilities against the Seminole Indians, 1849‑50; in garrison at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1850, — Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., 1850, — and Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1850‑51; on frontier duty at Ft. Towson, I. T., 1851‑53, 1853‑54,a — Ft. Arbuckle, I. T., 1854‑57, — and Ft. Washita, I. T., 1857‑58; in garrison at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1858.
Frontier duty on Utah Expedition, 1858‑59, — and Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., 1859; and on sick leave.(Major, 10th Infantry, Dec. 20, 1860)
Served during the Rebellion of the Seceding States, 1861‑65; in command of Ft. Garland, Col., July 9, 1861, to July 26, 1862; as Member of Board of Examination at Annapolis, Md., Aug. 1, 1862, to Oct. 14, 1863;Lieut.‑Colonel, 6th Infantry, Feb. 15, 1862)
(Retired from Active Service, Nov. 4, 1863, for Disability, resulting from Long and Faithful Service, and from Sickness and Exposure in the Line of Duty)
In command of Ft. Mifflin, Pa., Mar. 1 to Nov. 30, 1864.
Civil History. — Author of "Army Portfolio," a series of lithographed views illustrative of the Mexican War, 1849.
http://penelope.uchicago.edu/Thayer/E/Gazetteer/Places/America/United_States/Army/USMA/Cullums_Register/689*.html
DANIEL P. WHITING
Died, August 2, 1892, at Washington, D.C., aged 84.
See page 410, Cullum's Biographical Register of Offices and Graduates of the United States Military Academy. Born in New York; appointed from New York in 1828. Military history : Cadet at United States Military Academy from July 1, 1828, to July 1, 1832 ; appointed Second Lieutenant Seventh Infantry, July 1, 1832.
Extract from the Washington Post, August 1892 :
"Death of Colonel Whiting.–A Retired Army Officer passes Away at the Advanced Age of Eighty-four.–On Tuesday morning about 8.30 o'clock Colonel D. P. Whiting, one of the oldest Army officers on the retired list, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Mary B. Saunders, 1209 F Street Northwest. Colonel Whiting had been a resident of Washington for the past twenty years, where, though a constant invalid, he enjoyed a large circle of friends, attracted to him by his bright and cheery disposition, which was unvarying through years of suffering.
He was born in Troy, N. Y., in 1808, and entered West Point at the age of nineteen. After graduating he was in 1832 appointed Second Lieutenant in the Seventh Infantry, and served on frontier service for a year, after which he was ordered to Washington, where he remained till 1836, when he was again ordered West and served in the Indian Territory till the breaking out of the Indian War in Florida in which he took an active part, and was ordered to New Orleans at the close of the outbreak in 1843. He received his promotion to a Captaincy in 1845, and served for a year on garrison duty in Texas, but on the declaration of the War with Mexico he went to the front and served with distinction in the defense of Fort Brown, the battle of Monterey, the siege of Vera Cruz, and for gallantry and coolness in the battle of Cerro Gordo was made Brevet Major. After a year of garrison duty in
Missouri at the close of the Mexican War he again took part in the Indian fighting in Florida, and served through the Seminole War. From this time on he alternated between garrison and frontier duty, taking part on the Utah expedition in 1858-59, and 1860, while on sick leave, caused by exposure in the field, he was transferred to the Tenth Infantry with the rank of Major. At the breaking out of the Civil War he was made Lieutenant-Colonel of the Sixth Infantry but on account of ill health took no active part in the War, but was retained on garrison duty in the West and in Pennsylvania, and served a portion of the time on Examining Board at Annapolis. In 1863 he was retired from active service on account of disability resulting from long and faithful duty, service, and exposure in the line of duty.
As a literary man Colonel Whiting's principal work was 'The Army Portfolio,' a series of lithographic views and descriptions taken through the Mexican War.
Colonel Whiting was eighty-four years old July 31st, 1892 two days before his death.
He leaves a family of two sons and four daughters and numerous grandchildren.
The funeral will take place from his late home on Thursday at five o'clock, and the interment will be at Arlington."
In addition to the military record of the late Daniel Power Whiting, Lieutenant-Colonel, U. S. A., it is deemed fitting to give some account of his social and private life.
His retirement from active service, due to his inability to mount and dismount his horse without aid, was grievous blow, as he was a thorough soldier, and efficient officer, and most enthusiastic and zealous in all that related to his military duties, especially, at that thrilling and stirring time of the War of 1861-5. He was beloved by his soldiers, whom he ever treated with the consideration not incompatible with military discipline. He was never addicted to intemperance, nor profanity, and was like a friend and counselor to the men of his command. After being in command at Fort Mifflin, Pa., in 1864, he resided in Philadelphia, where he had many friends and relatives. October, 1872, he removed to Washington, where he made his home, with exception of the few years of his visits to his daughter Belle (Mrs. T. Boyd Edelin), living near Marboro, Md., and with his son ("Dick") Richard Gatlin Whiting near Hyattsville, Md., a suburb of Washington. Since August 1, 1884, he resided at 2109 F Street, Northwest, Washington City, with his daughter Mary (Mrs. T. M. Saunders), in the house of his grand-son-in-law, Richard McAllister, where he had every comfort, and the love and respect and attention he so well deserved. The bright, sunny and breezy room, filled with his favorite books and pictures, was most enjoyable to him, and to all who visited him. Afflicted with "locomotor-ataxia" and totally unable, for many years, to walk, he was most comfortable in the wheeled-chair he had used since 1873. While thus a prisoner in one room, unable to take part in the outside world, none ever heard him repine or complain; ever cheerful, contented, amiable and sweet-tempered, always pleased to receive his visitors, whom he charmed by his talk of "Auld Lang Syne," his fund of anecdote, and the old songs he still could sing so sweetly, even after he was eighty.
In his earlier days he was unsurpassed for his charm of manner, his conversational powers, his many resources of mind and talent. His taste were superior, his ideas exalted; a poet and artist, his verses and pictures were most pleasing. Music was the chief charm of his nature. Choice in his reading, he had the pet authors, "Scott," "Bulwer," "Lever," "Ike Marvel," and others of the older school, whom he preferred to read over again to the newer writers of the later days. "Bitter Sweet," "Lorna Doone," "Ben Hur," "Under Two Flags," "Living or Dead," "My Novel," "What Will He Do With It," were among his favorite books. The last book he read was Marie Corelli's "Romance of Two Worlds," (a tale of this and the spirit world). Never coarse, never vulgar, he gave an example of culture and refinement, and was spoken as a true type of "The old gentleman of the olden school." He kept a diary, from the time he left West Point in 1832, making his last entry on Sunday, July 24, 1892. This "Diary" was often authority for settlement of disputed points, and "vexed questions" that arose in the family. While at Camp Floyd, in 1858-59, he wrote an autobiography up to that time, for his youngest daughter, then Miss Mollie, now the widow of the late Thomas M. Saunders, Captain Third U.S. Artillery, who now has charge of all his books and papers, and who purposes by aid of them some day to write the history of life to its close, for the gratification of his family and friends. He was most unselfish; ever thoughtful how to benefit, and was generous to a fault, helping all who ever appealed for aid, devoting his life and his money to the succor, and for the welfare of his children, reserving but a moiety for his own personal needs. He had no business talent, never succeeded in any schemes, or efforts to obtain pecuniary advantages. Thus he had only his salary as an Army Officer, and had no property whatever to leave except his books, pictures, papers and diary, which are only of value to his children.
After losing his wife in 1849 he never re-married, but devoted himself to his children, by whom he will ever be held in tenderest memory, as having been the dearest, best, most loving and generous father, and knowing too, that he was considered by all who knew him, as a most lovely character.
Of a long-lived family he reached great age, free from pain or sickness, and with but slight loss of mental ability.
His father, Judge Daniel W. Whiting, lived to be eighty-seven; his mother was seventy-nine; grandparents were ninety-five and one hundred and five. A brother, Wm. Bradford Whiting, who was a Commodore United States Navy, died in 1883. A surviving brother is (now seventy-two years of age) Henry L. Whiting, United States Coast Survey. Four daughters and two sons and their families, making in all twenty-eight, left to mourn for him.
His wife was "Indiana Sanford," daughter of Major Alfred Sanford, of Covington, Kentucky, granddaughter of old Major Tom Martin. She died, aged thirty-five, May 25, 1849, beloved, admired and mourned for by many. She was buried at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, and some day her remains will be brought to Arlington to mingle with his. Of her General Sherman used to say : "She was the pride of the Army," and old Dr. Dougall spoke of her as being "The grandest woman in America." Many now living can recall her beauty and grace and loveliness, and how she and he (her husband) were noted and admired for their domestic happiness, their personal attractions; a pair so congenial, so well-mated, that they were quoted as perfect example of connubial bliss.
Truly his lot was bitter and his state forlorn when he was bereft of her loving companionship. Long and truly did he mourn her, and in later life never wearied in recalling all her merits to her children.
Colonel Whiting contracted whooping-cough in June 1892, from contact with his little grandchildren. From this he would have recovered had not the excessive heat of that never-to-be-forgotten summer prostrated him, so that he took to his bed Tuesday, July 26, just one week before his death. He was perfectly conscious of his condition, and save when he slept would look about him, knowing those with him, and understanding all that was said and done. As his tongue was paralyzed he could not speak, but could make himself understood by loving ones so familiar with his wishes and tastes, and who interpreted the expression of his eyes. He was most docile in his obedience to Dr. Wm. Mercer Sprigg and his nurses to the last, lovable and serene and patient. While unable to swallow and take nourishment, he suffered no pain. Motionless he lay as the tide of his life gently and slowly ebbed away. Several times during the last nights he lifted his eyes to the faces of the watchers by his bedside and a beautiful smile showed his recognition of them. Peacefully and gently as he had lived so he died, looking until the end into the eyes of those dear to him. No doubt as to the future was seen in his eyes, and as the end came he appeared to fall asleep.
His daughters Sue, Belle, and Mary, and his son Dick, and several adult grandchildren and dear friends watched his closing hours. Gentle and painless he breathed his last at 8:30 o'clock Tuesday morning, August 2, 1892.
On Sunday, July 31st, his family and friends gathered to celebrate his eighty-fourth birthday. As he listened to their singing of his favorite songs his eyes brightened and his hands kept time in the old, familiar way.
He appreciated fully his condition and understood the hymns and prayers, receiving the Holy Sacrament (from the Rev. Clarernce W. Bispham) to his peace and comfort, his loving people uniting with him in that holy and solemn hour, to be of sweet remembrance to all whop participated on that sacred occasion. From his childhood he had been a believer in the Christian religion ; reared by Presbyterian parents he was never a doubter or scoffer, but ever earnest and reverent in regard to all things holy and sacred, although making but little protestation or outward observance of religion. By those privileged to know him intimately, especially during the last twenty years of his life, he was considered exemplary and saintly. A most noble and loving nature, that life of seclusion and self-denial, made due amends for all errors and follies of earlier years ; whatever of sins he may have been conscious of, were most truly repented, and surely forgiven, as his beautiful death testified.
He was ever regarded as a handsome man, in his Cadet days called "Dan Cupid." Was dignified and stately in bearing, and elegant in appearance, a "grand old man." In death he was most beautiful, looking twenty years younger, and as if he were but asleep.
Owing to the great heat of July and August many friends were absent from the city, and thus failed to behold the sweet, peaceful beauty of his face, or to attend him to his burial.
As the funeral cortege, on its way to beautiful Arlington, passed through Fort Meyer, the casket enwrapped in the flag he loved so well, was saluted by the soldiers, was received and lowered into the grave by soldiers, just as the sun went down. And, as "taps" was sounded, it seemed fitting that his tired, worn body, should be laid to rest and to sleep in the midst of soldiers, within sound of the bugle's call and drum's tattoo. His soul had sped away to the realms of bliss, where, he no longer is old and feeble, but ever young and buoyant and free, and we love to think of him as re-united to the soul of his young wife. He revels in all the glorious delights prepared for such as he.
One of his favorite hymns comes now to memory :
"The world recedes, it disappears;
Heaven opens on my eyes ; my ears
With sounds seraphic ring :
Lend, lend, your wings ; I mount ! I fly !
O Grave, where is thy victory,
O Death, where is thy sting !"
Mary B. Saunders.
May, 2016, we brought soil I had collected from Indiana's grave at Jefferson Barracks to Arlington and spread it over his Daniel's grave, headstone and the graves of his daughters, Susan and Mary.
Peace be with you always - Your great, great, grandson, Roger C Whiting
Son of Daniel and Elizabeth Powers Whiting
Husband of Indiana Belle Sanford Whiting
Our great, great, grandfather - Daniel Powers Whiting. Loving husband to Indiana Sanford Whiting.
Father to:
Susan Elizabeth Whiting - 1836
Florida Whiting - 1838
Isabella "Belle" Lee Whiting - 1839
Jessie Whiting - 1841
Mary Brainerd Whiting - 1842
George Griffin Whiting - 1844
Richard Gatlin Whiting - 1848
Indiana Whiting (baby) - 1849 Mother and baby died two days after birth due to medical complications.
Military History
Cadet at the Military Academy, July 1, 1828, to July 1, 1832, when he was graduated and promoted in the Army to
Bvt. Second Lieut., 7th Infantry, July 1, 1832.
Served on frontier duty at Ft. Gibson, I. T., 1833; Instructing,(Second Lieut., 7th Infantry, Dec. 15, 1833)
recruits at Newport, Ky., 1833‑35; in Ordnance Bureau at Washington,D.C., January 1 to Mar. 22, 1836; on Recruiting service, 1836‑37; on frontier(First Lieut., 7th Infantry, June 8, 1836)
Duty at Ft. Gibson, I. T., 1837‑39; in the Florida War, 1839‑42; on Recruiting service, 1842; in garrison at New Orleans Barracks, La., 1843, — Pass Christian, Mis., 1843, — New Orleans Barracks, La., 1843‑44, 1844‑45, and Ft. Pickens, Fla., 1845.
Served in Military Occupation of Texas,(Captain, 7th Infantry, Apr. 18, 1845),1845‑46.
In the War with Mexico, 1846‑47, being engaged in the Defense of Ft. Brown, May 3‑9, 1846, — Battle of Monterey, Sep. 21‑23, 1846, — Siege of Vera Cruz, Mar. 9‑29, 1847 — and Battle of Cerro Gordo, Apr. 17‑18, 1847; on Recruiting service, 1847‑48; in garrison
(Bvt. Major, Apr. 18, 1847, for Gallant and Meritorious Conduct in the Battle of Cerro Gordo, Mex.)
Served at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1848‑49; in Florida Hostilities against the Seminole Indians, 1849‑50; in garrison at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1850, — Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., 1850, — and Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1850‑51; on frontier duty at Ft. Towson, I. T., 1851‑53, 1853‑54,a — Ft. Arbuckle, I. T., 1854‑57, — and Ft. Washita, I. T., 1857‑58; in garrison at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1858.
Frontier duty on Utah Expedition, 1858‑59, — and Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., 1859; and on sick leave.(Major, 10th Infantry, Dec. 20, 1860)
Served during the Rebellion of the Seceding States, 1861‑65; in command of Ft. Garland, Col., July 9, 1861, to July 26, 1862; as Member of Board of Examination at Annapolis, Md., Aug. 1, 1862, to Oct. 14, 1863;Lieut.‑Colonel, 6th Infantry, Feb. 15, 1862)
(Retired from Active Service, Nov. 4, 1863, for Disability, resulting from Long and Faithful Service, and from Sickness and Exposure in the Line of Duty)
In command of Ft. Mifflin, Pa., Mar. 1 to Nov. 30, 1864.
Civil History. — Author of "Army Portfolio," a series of lithographed views illustrative of the Mexican War, 1849.
http://penelope.uchicago.edu/Thayer/E/Gazetteer/Places/America/United_States/Army/USMA/Cullums_Register/689*.html
DANIEL P. WHITING
Died, August 2, 1892, at Washington, D.C., aged 84.
See page 410, Cullum's Biographical Register of Offices and Graduates of the United States Military Academy. Born in New York; appointed from New York in 1828. Military history : Cadet at United States Military Academy from July 1, 1828, to July 1, 1832 ; appointed Second Lieutenant Seventh Infantry, July 1, 1832.
Extract from the Washington Post, August 1892 :
"Death of Colonel Whiting.–A Retired Army Officer passes Away at the Advanced Age of Eighty-four.–On Tuesday morning about 8.30 o'clock Colonel D. P. Whiting, one of the oldest Army officers on the retired list, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Mary B. Saunders, 1209 F Street Northwest. Colonel Whiting had been a resident of Washington for the past twenty years, where, though a constant invalid, he enjoyed a large circle of friends, attracted to him by his bright and cheery disposition, which was unvarying through years of suffering.
He was born in Troy, N. Y., in 1808, and entered West Point at the age of nineteen. After graduating he was in 1832 appointed Second Lieutenant in the Seventh Infantry, and served on frontier service for a year, after which he was ordered to Washington, where he remained till 1836, when he was again ordered West and served in the Indian Territory till the breaking out of the Indian War in Florida in which he took an active part, and was ordered to New Orleans at the close of the outbreak in 1843. He received his promotion to a Captaincy in 1845, and served for a year on garrison duty in Texas, but on the declaration of the War with Mexico he went to the front and served with distinction in the defense of Fort Brown, the battle of Monterey, the siege of Vera Cruz, and for gallantry and coolness in the battle of Cerro Gordo was made Brevet Major. After a year of garrison duty in
Missouri at the close of the Mexican War he again took part in the Indian fighting in Florida, and served through the Seminole War. From this time on he alternated between garrison and frontier duty, taking part on the Utah expedition in 1858-59, and 1860, while on sick leave, caused by exposure in the field, he was transferred to the Tenth Infantry with the rank of Major. At the breaking out of the Civil War he was made Lieutenant-Colonel of the Sixth Infantry but on account of ill health took no active part in the War, but was retained on garrison duty in the West and in Pennsylvania, and served a portion of the time on Examining Board at Annapolis. In 1863 he was retired from active service on account of disability resulting from long and faithful duty, service, and exposure in the line of duty.
As a literary man Colonel Whiting's principal work was 'The Army Portfolio,' a series of lithographic views and descriptions taken through the Mexican War.
Colonel Whiting was eighty-four years old July 31st, 1892 two days before his death.
He leaves a family of two sons and four daughters and numerous grandchildren.
The funeral will take place from his late home on Thursday at five o'clock, and the interment will be at Arlington."
In addition to the military record of the late Daniel Power Whiting, Lieutenant-Colonel, U. S. A., it is deemed fitting to give some account of his social and private life.
His retirement from active service, due to his inability to mount and dismount his horse without aid, was grievous blow, as he was a thorough soldier, and efficient officer, and most enthusiastic and zealous in all that related to his military duties, especially, at that thrilling and stirring time of the War of 1861-5. He was beloved by his soldiers, whom he ever treated with the consideration not incompatible with military discipline. He was never addicted to intemperance, nor profanity, and was like a friend and counselor to the men of his command. After being in command at Fort Mifflin, Pa., in 1864, he resided in Philadelphia, where he had many friends and relatives. October, 1872, he removed to Washington, where he made his home, with exception of the few years of his visits to his daughter Belle (Mrs. T. Boyd Edelin), living near Marboro, Md., and with his son ("Dick") Richard Gatlin Whiting near Hyattsville, Md., a suburb of Washington. Since August 1, 1884, he resided at 2109 F Street, Northwest, Washington City, with his daughter Mary (Mrs. T. M. Saunders), in the house of his grand-son-in-law, Richard McAllister, where he had every comfort, and the love and respect and attention he so well deserved. The bright, sunny and breezy room, filled with his favorite books and pictures, was most enjoyable to him, and to all who visited him. Afflicted with "locomotor-ataxia" and totally unable, for many years, to walk, he was most comfortable in the wheeled-chair he had used since 1873. While thus a prisoner in one room, unable to take part in the outside world, none ever heard him repine or complain; ever cheerful, contented, amiable and sweet-tempered, always pleased to receive his visitors, whom he charmed by his talk of "Auld Lang Syne," his fund of anecdote, and the old songs he still could sing so sweetly, even after he was eighty.
In his earlier days he was unsurpassed for his charm of manner, his conversational powers, his many resources of mind and talent. His taste were superior, his ideas exalted; a poet and artist, his verses and pictures were most pleasing. Music was the chief charm of his nature. Choice in his reading, he had the pet authors, "Scott," "Bulwer," "Lever," "Ike Marvel," and others of the older school, whom he preferred to read over again to the newer writers of the later days. "Bitter Sweet," "Lorna Doone," "Ben Hur," "Under Two Flags," "Living or Dead," "My Novel," "What Will He Do With It," were among his favorite books. The last book he read was Marie Corelli's "Romance of Two Worlds," (a tale of this and the spirit world). Never coarse, never vulgar, he gave an example of culture and refinement, and was spoken as a true type of "The old gentleman of the olden school." He kept a diary, from the time he left West Point in 1832, making his last entry on Sunday, July 24, 1892. This "Diary" was often authority for settlement of disputed points, and "vexed questions" that arose in the family. While at Camp Floyd, in 1858-59, he wrote an autobiography up to that time, for his youngest daughter, then Miss Mollie, now the widow of the late Thomas M. Saunders, Captain Third U.S. Artillery, who now has charge of all his books and papers, and who purposes by aid of them some day to write the history of life to its close, for the gratification of his family and friends. He was most unselfish; ever thoughtful how to benefit, and was generous to a fault, helping all who ever appealed for aid, devoting his life and his money to the succor, and for the welfare of his children, reserving but a moiety for his own personal needs. He had no business talent, never succeeded in any schemes, or efforts to obtain pecuniary advantages. Thus he had only his salary as an Army Officer, and had no property whatever to leave except his books, pictures, papers and diary, which are only of value to his children.
After losing his wife in 1849 he never re-married, but devoted himself to his children, by whom he will ever be held in tenderest memory, as having been the dearest, best, most loving and generous father, and knowing too, that he was considered by all who knew him, as a most lovely character.
Of a long-lived family he reached great age, free from pain or sickness, and with but slight loss of mental ability.
His father, Judge Daniel W. Whiting, lived to be eighty-seven; his mother was seventy-nine; grandparents were ninety-five and one hundred and five. A brother, Wm. Bradford Whiting, who was a Commodore United States Navy, died in 1883. A surviving brother is (now seventy-two years of age) Henry L. Whiting, United States Coast Survey. Four daughters and two sons and their families, making in all twenty-eight, left to mourn for him.
His wife was "Indiana Sanford," daughter of Major Alfred Sanford, of Covington, Kentucky, granddaughter of old Major Tom Martin. She died, aged thirty-five, May 25, 1849, beloved, admired and mourned for by many. She was buried at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, and some day her remains will be brought to Arlington to mingle with his. Of her General Sherman used to say : "She was the pride of the Army," and old Dr. Dougall spoke of her as being "The grandest woman in America." Many now living can recall her beauty and grace and loveliness, and how she and he (her husband) were noted and admired for their domestic happiness, their personal attractions; a pair so congenial, so well-mated, that they were quoted as perfect example of connubial bliss.
Truly his lot was bitter and his state forlorn when he was bereft of her loving companionship. Long and truly did he mourn her, and in later life never wearied in recalling all her merits to her children.
Colonel Whiting contracted whooping-cough in June 1892, from contact with his little grandchildren. From this he would have recovered had not the excessive heat of that never-to-be-forgotten summer prostrated him, so that he took to his bed Tuesday, July 26, just one week before his death. He was perfectly conscious of his condition, and save when he slept would look about him, knowing those with him, and understanding all that was said and done. As his tongue was paralyzed he could not speak, but could make himself understood by loving ones so familiar with his wishes and tastes, and who interpreted the expression of his eyes. He was most docile in his obedience to Dr. Wm. Mercer Sprigg and his nurses to the last, lovable and serene and patient. While unable to swallow and take nourishment, he suffered no pain. Motionless he lay as the tide of his life gently and slowly ebbed away. Several times during the last nights he lifted his eyes to the faces of the watchers by his bedside and a beautiful smile showed his recognition of them. Peacefully and gently as he had lived so he died, looking until the end into the eyes of those dear to him. No doubt as to the future was seen in his eyes, and as the end came he appeared to fall asleep.
His daughters Sue, Belle, and Mary, and his son Dick, and several adult grandchildren and dear friends watched his closing hours. Gentle and painless he breathed his last at 8:30 o'clock Tuesday morning, August 2, 1892.
On Sunday, July 31st, his family and friends gathered to celebrate his eighty-fourth birthday. As he listened to their singing of his favorite songs his eyes brightened and his hands kept time in the old, familiar way.
He appreciated fully his condition and understood the hymns and prayers, receiving the Holy Sacrament (from the Rev. Clarernce W. Bispham) to his peace and comfort, his loving people uniting with him in that holy and solemn hour, to be of sweet remembrance to all whop participated on that sacred occasion. From his childhood he had been a believer in the Christian religion ; reared by Presbyterian parents he was never a doubter or scoffer, but ever earnest and reverent in regard to all things holy and sacred, although making but little protestation or outward observance of religion. By those privileged to know him intimately, especially during the last twenty years of his life, he was considered exemplary and saintly. A most noble and loving nature, that life of seclusion and self-denial, made due amends for all errors and follies of earlier years ; whatever of sins he may have been conscious of, were most truly repented, and surely forgiven, as his beautiful death testified.
He was ever regarded as a handsome man, in his Cadet days called "Dan Cupid." Was dignified and stately in bearing, and elegant in appearance, a "grand old man." In death he was most beautiful, looking twenty years younger, and as if he were but asleep.
Owing to the great heat of July and August many friends were absent from the city, and thus failed to behold the sweet, peaceful beauty of his face, or to attend him to his burial.
As the funeral cortege, on its way to beautiful Arlington, passed through Fort Meyer, the casket enwrapped in the flag he loved so well, was saluted by the soldiers, was received and lowered into the grave by soldiers, just as the sun went down. And, as "taps" was sounded, it seemed fitting that his tired, worn body, should be laid to rest and to sleep in the midst of soldiers, within sound of the bugle's call and drum's tattoo. His soul had sped away to the realms of bliss, where, he no longer is old and feeble, but ever young and buoyant and free, and we love to think of him as re-united to the soul of his young wife. He revels in all the glorious delights prepared for such as he.
One of his favorite hymns comes now to memory :
"The world recedes, it disappears;
Heaven opens on my eyes ; my ears
With sounds seraphic ring :
Lend, lend, your wings ; I mount ! I fly !
O Grave, where is thy victory,
O Death, where is thy sting !"
Mary B. Saunders.
May, 2016, we brought soil I had collected from Indiana's grave at Jefferson Barracks to Arlington and spread it over his Daniel's grave, headstone and the graves of his daughters, Susan and Mary.
Peace be with you always - Your great, great, grandson, Roger C Whiting
Husband of Indiana Belle Sanford Whiting
Our great, great, grandfather - Daniel Powers Whiting. Loving husband to Indiana Sanford Whiting.
Father to:
Susan Elizabeth Whiting - 1836
Florida Whiting - 1838
Isabella "Belle" Lee Whiting - 1839
Jessie Whiting - 1841
Mary Brainerd Whiting - 1842
George Griffin Whiting - 1844
Richard Gatlin Whiting - 1848
Indiana Whiting (baby) - 1849 Mother and baby died two days after birth due to medical complications.
Military History
Cadet at the Military Academy, July 1, 1828, to July 1, 1832, when he was graduated and promoted in the Army to
Bvt. Second Lieut., 7th Infantry, July 1, 1832.
Served on frontier duty at Ft. Gibson, I. T., 1833; Instructing,(Second Lieut., 7th Infantry, Dec. 15, 1833)
recruits at Newport, Ky., 1833‑35; in Ordnance Bureau at Washington,D.C., January 1 to Mar. 22, 1836; on Recruiting service, 1836‑37; on frontier(First Lieut., 7th Infantry, June 8, 1836)
Duty at Ft. Gibson, I. T., 1837‑39; in the Florida War, 1839‑42; on Recruiting service, 1842; in garrison at New Orleans Barracks, La., 1843, — Pass Christian, Mis., 1843, — New Orleans Barracks, La., 1843‑44, 1844‑45, and Ft. Pickens, Fla., 1845.
Served in Military Occupation of Texas,(Captain, 7th Infantry, Apr. 18, 1845),1845‑46.
In the War with Mexico, 1846‑47, being engaged in the Defense of Ft. Brown, May 3‑9, 1846, — Battle of Monterey, Sep. 21‑23, 1846, — Siege of Vera Cruz, Mar. 9‑29, 1847 — and Battle of Cerro Gordo, Apr. 17‑18, 1847; on Recruiting service, 1847‑48; in garrison
(Bvt. Major, Apr. 18, 1847, for Gallant and Meritorious Conduct in the Battle of Cerro Gordo, Mex.)
Served at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1848‑49; in Florida Hostilities against the Seminole Indians, 1849‑50; in garrison at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1850, — Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., 1850, — and Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1850‑51; on frontier duty at Ft. Towson, I. T., 1851‑53, 1853‑54,a — Ft. Arbuckle, I. T., 1854‑57, — and Ft. Washita, I. T., 1857‑58; in garrison at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., 1858.
Frontier duty on Utah Expedition, 1858‑59, — and Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., 1859; and on sick leave.(Major, 10th Infantry, Dec. 20, 1860)
Served during the Rebellion of the Seceding States, 1861‑65; in command of Ft. Garland, Col., July 9, 1861, to July 26, 1862; as Member of Board of Examination at Annapolis, Md., Aug. 1, 1862, to Oct. 14, 1863;Lieut.‑Colonel, 6th Infantry, Feb. 15, 1862)
(Retired from Active Service, Nov. 4, 1863, for Disability, resulting from Long and Faithful Service, and from Sickness and Exposure in the Line of Duty)
In command of Ft. Mifflin, Pa., Mar. 1 to Nov. 30, 1864.
Civil History. — Author of "Army Portfolio," a series of lithographed views illustrative of the Mexican War, 1849.
http://penelope.uchicago.edu/Thayer/E/Gazetteer/Places/America/United_States/Army/USMA/Cullums_Register/689*.html
DANIEL P. WHITING
Died, August 2, 1892, at Washington, D.C., aged 84.
See page 410, Cullum's Biographical Register of Offices and Graduates of the United States Military Academy. Born in New York; appointed from New York in 1828. Military history : Cadet at United States Military Academy from July 1, 1828, to July 1, 1832 ; appointed Second Lieutenant Seventh Infantry, July 1, 1832.
Extract from the Washington Post, August 1892 :
"Death of Colonel Whiting.–A Retired Army Officer passes Away at the Advanced Age of Eighty-four.–On Tuesday morning about 8.30 o'clock Colonel D. P. Whiting, one of the oldest Army officers on the retired list, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Mary B. Saunders, 1209 F Street Northwest. Colonel Whiting had been a resident of Washington for the past twenty years, where, though a constant invalid, he enjoyed a large circle of friends, attracted to him by his bright and cheery disposition, which was unvarying through years of suffering.
He was born in Troy, N. Y., in 1808, and entered West Point at the age of nineteen. After graduating he was in 1832 appointed Second Lieutenant in the Seventh Infantry, and served on frontier service for a year, after which he was ordered to Washington, where he remained till 1836, when he was again ordered West and served in the Indian Territory till the breaking out of the Indian War in Florida in which he took an active part, and was ordered to New Orleans at the close of the outbreak in 1843. He received his promotion to a Captaincy in 1845, and served for a year on garrison duty in Texas, but on the declaration of the War with Mexico he went to the front and served with distinction in the defense of Fort Brown, the battle of Monterey, the siege of Vera Cruz, and for gallantry and coolness in the battle of Cerro Gordo was made Brevet Major. After a year of garrison duty in
Missouri at the close of the Mexican War he again took part in the Indian fighting in Florida, and served through the Seminole War. From this time on he alternated between garrison and frontier duty, taking part on the Utah expedition in 1858-59, and 1860, while on sick leave, caused by exposure in the field, he was transferred to the Tenth Infantry with the rank of Major. At the breaking out of the Civil War he was made Lieutenant-Colonel of the Sixth Infantry but on account of ill health took no active part in the War, but was retained on garrison duty in the West and in Pennsylvania, and served a portion of the time on Examining Board at Annapolis. In 1863 he was retired from active service on account of disability resulting from long and faithful duty, service, and exposure in the line of duty.
As a literary man Colonel Whiting's principal work was 'The Army Portfolio,' a series of lithographic views and descriptions taken through the Mexican War.
Colonel Whiting was eighty-four years old July 31st, 1892 two days before his death.
He leaves a family of two sons and four daughters and numerous grandchildren.
The funeral will take place from his late home on Thursday at five o'clock, and the interment will be at Arlington."
In addition to the military record of the late Daniel Power Whiting, Lieutenant-Colonel, U. S. A., it is deemed fitting to give some account of his social and private life.
His retirement from active service, due to his inability to mount and dismount his horse without aid, was grievous blow, as he was a thorough soldier, and efficient officer, and most enthusiastic and zealous in all that related to his military duties, especially, at that thrilling and stirring time of the War of 1861-5. He was beloved by his soldiers, whom he ever treated with the consideration not incompatible with military discipline. He was never addicted to intemperance, nor profanity, and was like a friend and counselor to the men of his command. After being in command at Fort Mifflin, Pa., in 1864, he resided in Philadelphia, where he had many friends and relatives. October, 1872, he removed to Washington, where he made his home, with exception of the few years of his visits to his daughter Belle (Mrs. T. Boyd Edelin), living near Marboro, Md., and with his son ("Dick") Richard Gatlin Whiting near Hyattsville, Md., a suburb of Washington. Since August 1, 1884, he resided at 2109 F Street, Northwest, Washington City, with his daughter Mary (Mrs. T. M. Saunders), in the house of his grand-son-in-law, Richard McAllister, where he had every comfort, and the love and respect and attention he so well deserved. The bright, sunny and breezy room, filled with his favorite books and pictures, was most enjoyable to him, and to all who visited him. Afflicted with "locomotor-ataxia" and totally unable, for many years, to walk, he was most comfortable in the wheeled-chair he had used since 1873. While thus a prisoner in one room, unable to take part in the outside world, none ever heard him repine or complain; ever cheerful, contented, amiable and sweet-tempered, always pleased to receive his visitors, whom he charmed by his talk of "Auld Lang Syne," his fund of anecdote, and the old songs he still could sing so sweetly, even after he was eighty.
In his earlier days he was unsurpassed for his charm of manner, his conversational powers, his many resources of mind and talent. His taste were superior, his ideas exalted; a poet and artist, his verses and pictures were most pleasing. Music was the chief charm of his nature. Choice in his reading, he had the pet authors, "Scott," "Bulwer," "Lever," "Ike Marvel," and others of the older school, whom he preferred to read over again to the newer writers of the later days. "Bitter Sweet," "Lorna Doone," "Ben Hur," "Under Two Flags," "Living or Dead," "My Novel," "What Will He Do With It," were among his favorite books. The last book he read was Marie Corelli's "Romance of Two Worlds," (a tale of this and the spirit world). Never coarse, never vulgar, he gave an example of culture and refinement, and was spoken as a true type of "The old gentleman of the olden school." He kept a diary, from the time he left West Point in 1832, making his last entry on Sunday, July 24, 1892. This "Diary" was often authority for settlement of disputed points, and "vexed questions" that arose in the family. While at Camp Floyd, in 1858-59, he wrote an autobiography up to that time, for his youngest daughter, then Miss Mollie, now the widow of the late Thomas M. Saunders, Captain Third U.S. Artillery, who now has charge of all his books and papers, and who purposes by aid of them some day to write the history of life to its close, for the gratification of his family and friends. He was most unselfish; ever thoughtful how to benefit, and was generous to a fault, helping all who ever appealed for aid, devoting his life and his money to the succor, and for the welfare of his children, reserving but a moiety for his own personal needs. He had no business talent, never succeeded in any schemes, or efforts to obtain pecuniary advantages. Thus he had only his salary as an Army Officer, and had no property whatever to leave except his books, pictures, papers and diary, which are only of value to his children.
After losing his wife in 1849 he never re-married, but devoted himself to his children, by whom he will ever be held in tenderest memory, as having been the dearest, best, most loving and generous father, and knowing too, that he was considered by all who knew him, as a most lovely character.
Of a long-lived family he reached great age, free from pain or sickness, and with but slight loss of mental ability.
His father, Judge Daniel W. Whiting, lived to be eighty-seven; his mother was seventy-nine; grandparents were ninety-five and one hundred and five. A brother, Wm. Bradford Whiting, who was a Commodore United States Navy, died in 1883. A surviving brother is (now seventy-two years of age) Henry L. Whiting, United States Coast Survey. Four daughters and two sons and their families, making in all twenty-eight, left to mourn for him.
His wife was "Indiana Sanford," daughter of Major Alfred Sanford, of Covington, Kentucky, granddaughter of old Major Tom Martin. She died, aged thirty-five, May 25, 1849, beloved, admired and mourned for by many. She was buried at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, and some day her remains will be brought to Arlington to mingle with his. Of her General Sherman used to say : "She was the pride of the Army," and old Dr. Dougall spoke of her as being "The grandest woman in America." Many now living can recall her beauty and grace and loveliness, and how she and he (her husband) were noted and admired for their domestic happiness, their personal attractions; a pair so congenial, so well-mated, that they were quoted as perfect example of connubial bliss.
Truly his lot was bitter and his state forlorn when he was bereft of her loving companionship. Long and truly did he mourn her, and in later life never wearied in recalling all her merits to her children.
Colonel Whiting contracted whooping-cough in June 1892, from contact with his little grandchildren. From this he would have recovered had not the excessive heat of that never-to-be-forgotten summer prostrated him, so that he took to his bed Tuesday, July 26, just one week before his death. He was perfectly conscious of his condition, and save when he slept would look about him, knowing those with him, and understanding all that was said and done. As his tongue was paralyzed he could not speak, but could make himself understood by loving ones so familiar with his wishes and tastes, and who interpreted the expression of his eyes. He was most docile in his obedience to Dr. Wm. Mercer Sprigg and his nurses to the last, lovable and serene and patient. While unable to swallow and take nourishment, he suffered no pain. Motionless he lay as the tide of his life gently and slowly ebbed away. Several times during the last nights he lifted his eyes to the faces of the watchers by his bedside and a beautiful smile showed his recognition of them. Peacefully and gently as he had lived so he died, looking until the end into the eyes of those dear to him. No doubt as to the future was seen in his eyes, and as the end came he appeared to fall asleep.
His daughters Sue, Belle, and Mary, and his son Dick, and several adult grandchildren and dear friends watched his closing hours. Gentle and painless he breathed his last at 8:30 o'clock Tuesday morning, August 2, 1892.
On Sunday, July 31st, his family and friends gathered to celebrate his eighty-fourth birthday. As he listened to their singing of his favorite songs his eyes brightened and his hands kept time in the old, familiar way.
He appreciated fully his condition and understood the hymns and prayers, receiving the Holy Sacrament (from the Rev. Clarernce W. Bispham) to his peace and comfort, his loving people uniting with him in that holy and solemn hour, to be of sweet remembrance to all whop participated on that sacred occasion. From his childhood he had been a believer in the Christian religion ; reared by Presbyterian parents he was never a doubter or scoffer, but ever earnest and reverent in regard to all things holy and sacred, although making but little protestation or outward observance of religion. By those privileged to know him intimately, especially during the last twenty years of his life, he was considered exemplary and saintly. A most noble and loving nature, that life of seclusion and self-denial, made due amends for all errors and follies of earlier years ; whatever of sins he may have been conscious of, were most truly repented, and surely forgiven, as his beautiful death testified.
He was ever regarded as a handsome man, in his Cadet days called "Dan Cupid." Was dignified and stately in bearing, and elegant in appearance, a "grand old man." In death he was most beautiful, looking twenty years younger, and as if he were but asleep.
Owing to the great heat of July and August many friends were absent from the city, and thus failed to behold the sweet, peaceful beauty of his face, or to attend him to his burial.
As the funeral cortege, on its way to beautiful Arlington, passed through Fort Meyer, the casket enwrapped in the flag he loved so well, was saluted by the soldiers, was received and lowered into the grave by soldiers, just as the sun went down. And, as "taps" was sounded, it seemed fitting that his tired, worn body, should be laid to rest and to sleep in the midst of soldiers, within sound of the bugle's call and drum's tattoo. His soul had sped away to the realms of bliss, where, he no longer is old and feeble, but ever young and buoyant and free, and we love to think of him as re-united to the soul of his young wife. He revels in all the glorious delights prepared for such as he.
One of his favorite hymns comes now to memory :
"The world recedes, it disappears;
Heaven opens on my eyes ; my ears
With sounds seraphic ring :
Lend, lend, your wings ; I mount ! I fly !
O Grave, where is thy victory,
O Death, where is thy sting !"
Mary B. Saunders.
May, 2016, we brought soil I had collected from Indiana's grave at Jefferson Barracks to Arlington and spread it over his Daniel's grave, headstone and the graves of his daughters, Susan and Mary.
Peace be with you always - Your great, great, grandson, Roger C Whiting
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