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Biography
Estelle Johnson (February 2, 1841 – December 25, 1910) was a Union nurse during the American Civil War. She and her sister, Lydia Wood, enlisted when their husbands joined the service. The two women and their husbands served in the 4th Vermont Volunteers; Johnson and Wood enlisted on September 20, 1861. After long travels, the regiment finally set up camp at Camp Griffin.
Civil War service
Upon arrival at camp, Johnson helped set up a hospital in an abandoned house as soon as possible. Johnson was immediately exposed to the harsh camp life; at first the hospital was so low on supplies they did not even have cots. When word got out about the poor conditions at this makeshift hospital, drastic changes occurred, and supplies were sent to the regiment. Eventually, Johnson became matron of this hospital which cared for the Vermont Brigade.
Camp hardships surpassed supply shortages, however. Soon typhoid fever plagued the regiment, Johnson's husband and sister both falling ill. Her husband would recover, but unfortunately Lydia Wood died due to the illness. Johnson also experienced two soldiers who she believed died from sheer homesickness. Another noteworthy experience for Johnson were her trips to Washington, D.C. where she met Dorothea Dix.
Johnson's husband was discharged upon injury, but Johnson continued her service a few months after his departure. Johnson left the service on March 23, 1862 after six months of service.