A ball had passed between my body and the right arm which supported him, cutting through the sleeve and passing through his chest from shoulder to shoulder. There was no more to be done for him and I left him to his rest. I have never mended that hole in my sleeve.
Clara Barton

An institution or reform movement that is not selfish, must originate in the recognition of some evil that is adding to the sum of human suffering, or diminishing the sum of happiness.
Clara Barton

Economy, prudence, and a simple life are the sure masters of need, and will often accomplish that which, their opposites, with a fortune at hand, will fail to do.
Clara Barton

Everybody's business is nobody's business, and nobody's business is my business.
Clara Barton

I have an almost complete disregard of precedent, and a faith in the possibility of something better. It irritates me to be told how things have always been done. I defy the tyranny of precedent. I go for anything new that might improve the past.
Clara Barton

I may be compelled to face danger, but never fear it, and while our soldiers can stand and fight, I can stand and feed and nurse them.
Clara Barton

I may sometimes be willing to teach for nothing, but if paid at all, I shall never do a man's work for less than a man's pay.
Clara Barton

I wonder if a soldier ever does mend a bullet hole in his coat?
Clara Barton

The patriot blood of my father was warm in my veins.
Clara Barton

The surest test of discipline is its absence.
Clara Barton


This conflict is one thing I've been waiting for. I'm well and strong and young - young enough to go to the front. If I can't be a soldier, I'll help soldiers.
Clara Barton