johnson99

JOHNSON'S ISLAND

The Civil War did more to change the course of events in this nation's history than any other single event. Ohio's role in this saga can be identified by the events occurring on a small island in Sandusky Bay. Johnson's Island was the reluctant home for many months to over 12,000 Confederates including 26 Confederate Generals and other officers over the course of the war.

Brought to the island as prisoners of war, they were not exchanged as in previous wars but remained to be guarded by Union soldiers who would prevent them from returning to organize forces in the South. They did return as civilians to what was left of their homeland, and distinguished themselves as educators, businessmen, physicians and public officials, including one justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Their stories were preserved through diaries and letters. Diaries tell of men who were higher educated and passed the time writing musicals, plays and poetry. Some studdied and took advanced degrees in law and medicine. The diaries tell of lives, forever changed by the time spent on Johnson's Island. Future generations can learn of the spoils of war--not on a battlefield, but behind a stockade as a prisoner because of a cause.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Johnson's Island and the graves of 206 Confederates who remain there, will continue to serve as a grim reminder of a nation divided.

Help Save what history Johnson's Is. has left

Johnson's Island Memorial site

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