The Daily Dispatch: January 1, 1862., [Electronic resource]

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A New army ambulance.

--We saw yesterday at the furniture warehouse of R. C. Howe, on Governor street, a newly- invented ambulance, which we do not hesitate to commend, as combining all the requisites for the proper care of the wounded soldier on the field of battle. It consists of a large pack- saddle, constructed in the most substantial manner, with a pannier, or, more properly, a litter, on each side, fastened to the saddle by strong leather straps and iron hooks. The whole contrivance may be placed upon the back of a mule, and when a wounded man is found a litter can, be instantly detached, and the sufferer placed upon it, when it is again hooked without trouble or inconvenience to the saddle and gently carried away to the hospital or other place of reception. The saddle is well provided with haversacks, within reach, of the wounded man, where provisions or other articles necessary for his comfort may be placed. One mule will thus carry away two men, without any jolting over rough roads, and one driver can perhaps take charge of a dozen mules. Had a number of these admirable contrivances been at hand on the battle-field of Manassas, an immense amount of human suffering might have been prevented. The saddle may also be used for packing bulky articles, when an army is on the move. This remarkable specimen of ingenuity is the invention of D. B. Williams, who had it made by C. W. White & Co., on Governor street. We hope it will be carefully examined by the military authorities, for its adoption by the army would prove a positive blessing in the event of a battle.