January 1864

Columbus City Directory 1864
Warren W. Pollard, Surveyor and draughtman, SE cor High & Town. Res. 144 W. Long.

M.M. Griswold bds United States Hotel

Griswold & Smith (M.M.G. & D.L.S. photographers 107 S. High

Crisis- 22 W. Gay.

January, 1864:
Prison Report
Number of Prisoners,
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 2,763
Joined During Month: 284
Total: 3,047
Transferred to other Stations: 1,001
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died: 15
Escaped: 0
Released: 47
Total Loss: 1,067
Sick: 74
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 112

:Lt. Col. W.P. Richardson
William Pitt Richardson was born in Washington Co, Pa. on May 25, 1824, and was educated at Washington College. In 1846 he enlisted as a private in the Third Ohio Infantry, and served out his enlistment in the Mexican war. He was admitted to the bar of Cadiz, Ohio in August, 1852 and in 1853 he commenced the practice of law at Woodsfield, Monroe Co., Ohio. In 1855 he was elected prosecuting attorney of the same county, and held that position until the outbreak of the war in 1861. He was appointed Major of the 25th regiment OVI, and on June 10th, 1861 was promoted to Lieut- Col.. On May 10, 1862 he was promoted to the Colonelcy of his regiment. On May 2d, 1863, he was wounded severly through the right shoulder at the battle of Chancellorsville. This wound deprived Colonel Richardson of the use of his right arm, which he has never fully recovered. He was not on duty again until January, 1864, when he was detailed as president of a court-martial at Camp Chase. On February 11th he was placed in command of Camp Chase until August, 1865. Richardson was elected Attorney General of the State of Ohio in the fall of 1864, but remained in the service. In December he gained his Brevetted Brigadier General position.

February 1864

February, 1864:
Number of Prisoners
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 1,968
Joined During Month: 227
Total: 2,195
Transferred to other Stations: 1,000
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died:18
Escaped: 2
Released: 12
Total Loss: 793
Sick: 64
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 96

February 5, 1864:
Delaware Gazette
February 5, 1864
Col. Moody
We had this morning the pleasure of a call from our early and valuable friend, Rev. Granville Moody, who was summoned hither to meet his sick brother, George V. Moody, Chief of Longstreet's (Rebel) Artillery, who was captured at Knoxville, and has just arrived, a prisoner of war, at Camp Chase. These brothers were both engaged each at the head of his own corps. at the battle of Stone River. The captive , though full of that strange spirit of blind and fierce infatuation which animates intelligent Southern gentlemen, is subdued by a painful indisposition, inflammatory rheumatism. It is fortunate for him in his present circumstances, that he has here at hand a kind, sympathizing, and almost forgiving friend his brother, the faithful Parson, faithful citizen, and fearless soldier of his country. The captive brother is by four years the junior of his brother Granville has been for many years a prominent lawyer in Mississippi, residing at Port Gibson, and possessing such advantages as have been showered upon him, surely ought to have known better than to be found confederate with rebels against such government as ours. To us it is amazing, that a man of ordinary intelligence should be thus overtaken. With this man we have no personal acquaintance ; but the fact that he is a brother of our faithful Pastor, the hero, Col. Granville Moody calls out our sympathy for his present suffering, and in a measure stifles our resentment for his great offense.
Col. Moody is seeking for a furlough for his brother, that he may take him to his own home in Piqua, and minister to his physical necessities. We have no doubt should the favor be obtained from the War Department, he would also be faithful in his exhortations. (for which Brother Moody has a gift) and might awaken in the mind of his captive brother recollections of early parental teachings and possibly be the means in the hands of Providence of converting a rebel from the error of his way, and saving a great political sinner alive. We would gladly wish for him this full measure of success. --[ Columbus Express ]

February 29, 1864
The Democratic Standard, Thursday March 3, p 2. col 2
Camp Chase Letter
Camp Chase, 0 Feb 29, '64
Editor Standard- This month is going out like a lion. Yesterday we were visited by a storm of thunder and lightning - the first of the season - accompanied by high winds and rain. Two of the guards connected with our company while on duty were somewhat stunned by the lightning which was attracted by bayonets on their pieces. The fluid hit the bayonets hard enough to form creases. So much is in evidence against highly polished bayonets and "shooting irons". Last night we had a snow storm, the snow falling to the depth of three inches. This morning we were mustered for pay, the primal step towards drawing green-backs. About noon 1,000 rebel prisoners started for Fort Delaware. They had been hear such a length of time, they undoubtedly were pleased at the idea of changing their "prison base of operations". The 82nd O.V.I. left here for the front on Saturday last, about 600 strong. The 2lst will soon follow suite. Bazil Duke is still here and has not voluntarily returned to the O. P. as has been published by some papers, nor does he wish to, as no nor would accrue to a step of this kind for he has the freedom of the camp.
1,500 rebel prisoners yet remain here including 500 officers. We have had many cases of small pox, but few of them have proved fatal, however. Dr. Longwell, our efficient Surgeon, and Dr. Carothers , 1st Assistant, a good surgeon, both from your county are still with us. The prospect for a wheat crop the coming season is very gloomy; fruit crop ditto.
From every indication it will not be necessary to resort to a draft in Columbus, as they will fill their quota with volunteers. Our Department Commander appears inclined to do the clean thing by the "blue coats". Who would not be a soldier when he can get a nice blue coat, pants, tile, bootees, shirt, drawers and stockings for ($13.00) thirteen dollars with plenty of sow-belly, fresh beef, rice, hominy, beans, fresh bread, coffee, tea, sugar, molasses, potatoes and onions thrown in.
Our Orderly having just passed through a small pox campaign, (and who is one of the most capital boys in the bloody 88th), but with little scarring, is ready to receive proposals from the fair sex. The young ladies in this vicinity still remember that soldiers love sweet things so they send them in, especially Miss. EE. W,, one of the fairest of Franklin County's fair daughters. May prosperity and happiness ever be hers.
Our boys have a perfect mania for ring making, and a shop is in operation in every chebang. At night a general onslaught is made upon the rat family with broom handles and sticks. Occasionally one of the "oldest inhabitants" shows fight, which turns the scale, and then the almost nude boys to their bunks "double-quick-MARCH" leaving the old Norwegian alone in his glory, until reinforcements can be got to come in on the flanks, and any moonlight night the clarion voice of Patrick Welch of Co. "D", saying to his dog when he wants him to "for for" them -"Sick 'em!" - "Cotch a rat and ate 'em all oop!"
On the 2lst instant, as a relief from the monotony of camp life, we in company with four beautiful young ladies attended a wedding in the "Oak Woods" near Grove City in this county, It was gay and festive." The bride was very pretty, and neatly and modestly dressed, and went through with her part of the role admirable; while the groom was rather verdant. When he saw the minister approaching, he broke out, and it was some time here he could pick up sufficient courage to come in and then he took the wrong seat, and only discovered his mistake after his dough-beater gave him two or three digs with her elbow among the ribs, like one urchin at school trying to make another quit scourging. When they were being "tied up: the poor fellow tried to spill a tear, but the tear couldn't seem to come. The dinner, however, was very fine, and fully made amends for all previous mishaps.
DWCL

March 1864

March, 1864:
Number of Prisoners
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 1,128
Joined During Month: 467
Total: 1,604
Transferred to other Stations: 773
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died: 8
Escaped: 0
Released: 44
Total Loss: 67
Sick:42
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 106

March 4, 1864:
OR and Confederate Series II, vol. 5 page 1016
HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA,
OFFICE COMMISSIONER FOR EXCHANGE,
Fort Monroe, VA. March 4, 1864
Col. W. Hoffman,
Commissary-General of Prisoners, Washington, D.C.:
Sir: In reply to your communication of February 17, informing me the Secretary of War authorizes the exchange of Capt. A.W. Metcalf, Fourteenth New York Cavalry, for Capt. George V. Moody a rebel officer at Camp Chase, Ohio, I have to inform you that Captain Metcalf has been exchanged for Captain Stanley, of North Carolina.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Benj. F. Butler,
Major-General and Commissioner for Exchange

March 7, 1864:
OR and Confederate Series II, vol. 5 page 1023
Washington, D.C., March 7, 1864
Major. Gen. E.A. Hitchcock
Commissioner of Exchange, Washington, D.C.:
General. I have the honor to inform you that I have just received notice from Maj. Gen. B.F. Butler, commissioner for exchange, of the exchange of Capt. A.W. Metcalf, Fourteenth New York Cavalry, for Captain Stanley, of North Carolina. The exchange of Captain Metcalf for Captain Moody, of the rebel army, now in confinement at Camp Chase, authority for which, from the Secretary of War, was communicated to me in your note of the 17th ultimo, cannot therefore be arranged.
If there was a desire to exchange Captain Moody it will be possible to obtain some other officer for him. I inclose herewith an application for his exchange, action on which was suspended in consequence of the instructions contained in your note.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. Hoffman
Colonel Third Infantry and Commissary-General of Prisoners.

March 8, 1864:
Official Records of the Union and Confederate Series II, vol. 5 page 1025
Office Commissary-General of Prisoners,
Washington, D.C., March 8, 1864
Maj.Gen.B.F.Butler,
Commissioner for Exchange, Fort Monroe, VA.:
General: As the exchange of Captain Moody, directed in my letter of the 17th ultimo by authority of the Secretary of War, could not be effected, I have respectfully to request that he be exchanged for some other Federal officer of corresponding rank now on parole. I would respectfully suggest Capt. Joseph O'Keeffe, additional aid-de-camp to Major-General Sherman, who is anxious that he should join him. Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. Hoffman
Colonel Third Infantry and Commissary-General of Prisoners.

March 14th,1864:
Delaware Gazette
From Camp Chase
Camp Chase, O.
March 14th, 1864
Editor Gazette:-
March is bound to keep up her reputation for being a blustering month. To-day we had inumerable squalls of snow, the flaks falling thick and fast. At noon today 500 rebels were started for Fort Delaware, under the directions of our worthy Captain; among them was one female who has been here some time. She styles herself Florence Washington, claiming some relationship to the Immortal Geo. Washington. If the General was to hear of this claimed relationship, his bones could not lie easy in the grave at Mount Vernon, on the fare-famed " all quiet on the Potomac." They go to Philadelphia by rail, and from there to the Fort by water, which is situated on an island in the Bay bearing the same name with the Fort, fifty miles from the "City of Brotherly Love". The removal of fifteen hundred prisoners from here within two weeks makes quite an opening, but the vacancy will soon be filled up with new recruits from the "Conthieveracy". One hundred and sixty came in on Friday last.
Since I last wrote you, a small fire occurred in camp, consuming the building used as prison Head Quarters, disturbing the equanimity of countless numbers of Norway rats who had grown grey in the service. The rats in the camp are very discriminating. A few nights since Union paper containing a graphic description of a rat hunt was dragged by them through a hole in the floor of a chebang inhabited by Mess I, of our company, while a few rods off laid a Butternut sheet untouched.
The camp is crowded with veteran regiments en route for the front. They have been home, had a good time with their wives, little ones and sweet hearts, and are going back to help in squelling the damnable plot laid for the destruction of this blood bought Republic. Many new boys have come with them, and proudly do they walk in their suits of blue, well knowing that the eyes of those who are dear to them are upon them, watching with anxiety their bearing in the face of the enemy. Noble boys. May He who tempers the wind to the lamb that is shorn, guard and protect them, and bring them back in safety to their friends. Many who returned single from the South have been "tied up" since their return, and more weddings have taken place since the 1st of January 1864, than had occurred in the same length of time since the discovery of this continent.
On yesterday one Captain, two Lieutenants, and twenty - five enlisted men of this regiment were detached to escort the remains of Captain Wells, off 113th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, who fell at the battle of Chickamauga to their last resting place in that beautiful "City of the Dead," Green Lawn Cemetery."
Light is breaking.
It is rumored that this Regiment is soon to have an opportunity to re-organize for active service in the field. God grant that this may be so, for it would be such relief to get away from this lousy, dirty camp.
Dr. Longwell is in charge as Post Surgeon, What a capital fellow he is.
Not long since a new recruit at Tod Barracks, received his bounty, and with it purchased a set of shoulder straps. With these he procured the countersign, went up in the city. got married, and before daylight was far on his way to Canada, that place of refuge for so many scoundrels both in and out of the army. A short time ago, an officer returning from near Charleston, south Carolina, whether he had been to escort some deserter, was on a boat which was fired into by the Guerillas. He was terribly alarmed, and having some important papers for Governor Brough in his possession, thrust them inside of his stockings beneath his feet. Then being reminded by the crashing of the balls from the enemy's guns in close proximity to his feeble body, ( he weights over two hundred pounds) that he might be near death's door, he began to think of nothing but,
Now I lay me down to sleep
All curled up in a little heap,
which he rehearsed in sober earnest. Fortunately for the poor fellow, the boat escaped, and he is now a living monument of the mercy of the Guerrillas, and tells of his hair breadth escape with great gusto. I would advice him to get some one of the boys to learn him the /lords Prayer, and procure a copy of the "Sinner's Call" to read, before he venture so far away from home again.
Will Old Delaware County fill up her quota without resorting to a draft!
We have got rid of that delectable gentleman, Basil Duke. He has been sent to Fort Delaware.
Yours Truly
D.W.C. Lugenbeel

Spring, 1864:
(See Hilltop Record Article November 5, 1950.)

April 1864

April, 1864:
Number of Prisoners
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 811
Joined During Month: 412
Total: 1,223
Transferred to other Stations: 3
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died: 8
Escaped: 0
Released: 11
Total Loss: 45
Sick: 42
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 113

April 11, 1864:
Official Records. - Union and Confederate Series II, vol. 6, page 51 & 52.
[Inclosure]
Camp Chase, Ohio, April 11, 1864
Col. W.P. Richardson, Commanding Post:
I have in compliance with your order made a careful examination of Prison No. 3, Camp Chase, Ohio, and have the honor of submitting the following report:
I find the sanitary condition of the quarters, streets, and alleys good, but sinks, situated a few feet north of the quarters, I find in a decidedly pernicious condition. They are all full, or nearly so, with one exception. This one would accommodate the present number of men two or three months. There is room for no more sinks within the inclosure. There is a large ditch running the entire length of the prison and within a few feet of one line of quarters, which is partially filled by fluid contents of the sinks permeating the soil and settling therein. And at present, owing to the recent rains, the sinks are to some extent overflowing and the contents passing into the ditch. This offensive matter cannot be disposed of except by conducting it through a ditch running between and parallel with the officers' and company quarters the entire length of the east half of the camp. The result of which is too palpable to require comment.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Albert Longwell,
Eighty-eight Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Post Surgeon.

Head Quarters, U.S. Forces,
Camp Chase, Columbus, Ohio, April 14, 1864
Col. W. Hoffman, Commissary-General of Prisoners:
Colonel: I have the honor to inclose you the report of Surgeon Longwell as to the condition of Prison No. 3 at this post. From this report and from my own knowledge I have no doubt about the absolute necessity of the immediate removal of this prison. The entire eastern portion of the camp in warm weather is rendered almost uninhabitable by the stench from the ditch that carries off the filth of this prison. It runs the whole length of that part of the camp between the quarters of the officers and the men, and from the nature of the ground it can not be changed to any other direction.
This prison should be removed and reconstructed adjoining Prisons Nos. 1 and 2, where the ground will permit much more perfect drainage and will not annoy the camp by flowing out of filth, and the whole can be guarded by half the number of men now required. The expense of this removal will be trifling. I hope you will give this matter immediate attention,
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. P. Richardson
Col. Twenty-fifth Ohio Volunteers,

[First endorsement]

Headquarters Northern Department
Columbus, Ohio, April 19, 1864
Respectfully forwarded to Colonel Hoffman.
I have written two letters to the Quartermaster-General at Washington, one February 2, and the other March 21, 1864, asking a decision on the question of the removal of this camp to a place near by, selected with care, and for which estimates have been made. To these letters I have no reply. I think it of the utmost importance to move this camp at once as its location is the worst possible.
S.P. Heintzelman,
Major-General, Commanding.

[Second endorsement.]

Office Commissary-General of Prisoners,
Washington, D.C., April 30, 1864.

Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War.
The objectionable character of the location of Camp Chase and the greater objection to the position of Prison No.3 have several times been presented by Governor Tod, the Quartermaster-General, Major General Heintzelman, General Mason, and Colonel Swords, assistant quartermaster-general, and there seems now to be an imperative necessity in order to preserve the health of the Federal troops that Prison No. 3 should be removed.
W. Hoffman
Colonel Third Infantry and Commissary- General of Prisons.

[Third endorsement.]
War Department, May 2, 1864.

Approved.
By order of the Secretary of War:
Ed. R. S. Canby,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.

May 1864

May, 1864:
Number of Prisoners
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 1,156
Joined During Month: 390
Total: 1,546
Transferred to other Stations: 5
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died: 26
Escaped: 3
Released: 17
Total Loss: 27
Sick: 45
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 134

May 26, 1864:
The Democratic Standard. May 26, 1864, p 2, cols 3 & 4.
Correspondent for the Standard - Fort Tillinghast, VA., May 19, 1864. Having nothing special to occupy my time Friend Stayman -
this morning and desiring to keep ennui at as great a distance as possible, I thought I would spend a few moments in giving you some notes respecting the movements of the 145 N G. After reaching Columbus on the lOth, and standing for half an hour in the rain and mud, we started on our slippery tramp to Camp Chase which we reached about five PM. Although the profusion of mud and water, in all directions, would have rendered the camp a delightful place for the congregating of "gabbling geese and squawking ducks" yet our large canvas tents, well pitched, trenched about and floored with brush, which we cut and carried from the adjacent grove afforded us a tolerable comfortable lodging place. The camp presented quite a lively appearance the two days we remained.
Regiments were still arriving every few hours, when we left, and the erection of tents was rapidly whitening the hitherto unoccupied portions of the camp. We were mustered into the U S service on the l2th inst, and immediately afterwards drew our clothing and "traps". formed into battalion, took up the line of march for Columbus; arrived there about two PM after -a very wearisome march, (we being green hands, and unused to lugging knapsacks and other paraphernalia of the soldier.) On reaching the city we proceeded to the arsenal, were furnished with arms, and then marched to Tod Barracks, got our suppers, and about nine PM repaired to the depot and Co "D" and some other companies were soon aboard and waiting impatiently to be off, but, as the requisite number of cars for the transportation of the entire regiment could not be obtained immediately, we were obliged to sit in the cars on our knap sacks (for they were box cars and destitute of seats) till "gray down" appeared in the East before the train began to move. Most of the boys passed Thursday night with very little sleep yet there was no lack of fun and jollity on the train when it began to move Friday morning on the Central Ohio Road. about nine, and at Stubenville at We arrived at Newark; large slices of dark, where many of our men were treated to good bread at least it looked good, though we were so unfortunate as to be deprived of the pleasure of testing its qualities, well spread with apple butter; many also having their canteens filled with warm coffee. A few of our boys at this place afforded rich sport for the remainder by double quicking across a field to where two fine specimens of the bovine genous were quietly grazing and from which, after some little 'soing' and coaxing, they succeeded in drawing a sufficient quantity of the lacteal fluid to fill two or three canteens. After the boys had began the operation of teat pulling the owner of the cows, who appeared to be engaged in some agricultural operation hard by approached then, but instead of adding to the merriment of us who were looking on by causing them to skedaddle, he very kindly gave them permission help themselves. Leaving Stubenville we proceeded to Pittsburgh where we arrived about two AM Saturday morning, and after a short time marched to a large and beautiful hall, in which the good people of this city are want to refresh the weary and hungry soldiers who pass that way, and partook of a breakfast of warm coffee, good bread, crackers, dried beef, pickles and green apples, all of which were dispatched with a relish to which the votaries of luxury and ease are entire strangers. We remained in Pittsburgh till about nine waiting for transportation but having been almost totally deprived of sleep the two preceding nights, did not feel like perambulating the streets, but tried to obtain a little repose and sleep, by resting on our knapsack, on the street corner. I would here remark that I hope it may never again be my lot to pass three consecutive nights in such miserable cars as we were compelled to occupy during our trip from Columbus to Washington. Perhaps the best accommodation was furnished that was possible under the circumstances but it really seemed to me to savor not a little of the manner in which cattle and swine are transported over the mountains at the present day. But I must hasten to a conclusion, as I do not wish to trespass on your columns. After leaving the city of Pittsburgh, though nature called loudly for rest and slumber; the scenery was by far too romantic and enchanting to be passed over and not be seen, so I passed the day in gazing with pleasure and delight on lofty and rugged cliffs, pine-clad and rock-covered mountains, deep ravines and frightful chasms, and was sorry when night fall shut out the enchanting view. We arrived opposite Harrisburgh at dawn on Sunday morning, the river Susquehanna intervene between us and it. We passed for some distance along the banks of this stream which is certainly very beautiful. We stopped for some time Sunday morning at York, Penn, and procured something to satisfy the wants of the outer man, but you may depend upon it we had to pay well for all we obtained, Leaving York, we arrived at the suburbs of Baltimore about noon, formed into line and marched through the city. The people thronging the streets, waving the stars and stripes, as we filed along gave indication of the strong union feeling at present prevalent in the city. We were furnished with our dinners and about dark took the train for Washington city, arriving about midnight and assigned to the barracks where we slept soundly on the floor till daylight. About six we were furnished with a bowl of coffee and slice of bread with a piece of fat meat; so strong, that one would have to be in a famishing condition to dispose of more than one mouthful. About eleven we took up the line of march for Arlington Heights, distant in a direct line some four or five miles from Washington, but by the circuitous route we took to reach it not far from eight miles. The regiment was distributed throughout the forts around the heights. Co D formerly F and Co K were assigned to duty in Fort C F Smith, but the next day Co K was ordered to this post, and last night Co D was ordered was ordered to follow suit. The boys were all highly delighted with Fort Smith and its surroundings, it being situated butt a few paces from the Potomac, affording excellent facilities for angling, and being also well supplied with good drinking water, and a beautiful brook in which to wash hands, faces and clothes. We received our orders to remove our quarters to Fort Tellinghast with feelings of chagrin, not expecting to find another fort so attracting as Fort Smith, and we were not disappointed, there not being a man half so well satisfied with this as with our former fort.
Capt. Crawford has been trying to day to have us removed to another fort not far distant, whose name I have not learned, and it is thought he will be successful. Co E (formerly Co F) is now at Fort Whipple and I understand are well satisfied with their situation.
The second Conn Heavy-Artillery, which our regiment relieved, has been sent to Fortress Monroe. Our boys have been put through on guard and Picket duty pretty thoroughly, but they all seem to bear up under it admirably. We think we have been rather badly treated in not having been supplied with anything in the dish line. By far the larger number left home unprovided-with even a tin cup, supposing they would be furnished with every thing needful at Camp Chase, but "nary" a cup or anything else has been furnished up to this time and consequently we cannot set our table and take our meals like civilized beings, but when it is cooked there is a general rush to see who can be served first. Many of the boys have picked up old cast away tins and plated and scoured then up for use.
* There are may other things I should be glad to speak of, but having already extended this article to much greater length than I intended, when beginning I will close hoping to be able to give you a short article in a few days.
W. Thomas
Co. D 145th Regt, O N G

June 1864

June, 1864:
Number of Prisoners
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 1,501
Joined During Month: 166
Total: 1,667
Transferred to other Stations: 0
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died: 10
Escaped: 0
Released: 123
Total Loss: 134
Sick: 41
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 130

June 9, 1864:
The Democratic Standard, June 9, 1864, p 3, col 1.
"A new and commodious military hospital, containing six hundred beds, is being erected at Camp Chase. Also, a new military prison for the confinement of Confederate prisoners."

July 1864

July, 1864:
Number of Prisoners
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 1,640
Joined During Month: 375
Total: 2,015
Transferred to other Stations: 1
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died: 10
Escaped: 0
Released: 29
Total Loss: 67
Sick: 65
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 156

July 4, 1864:
Attempt To Escape From Camp Chase. (Mass Prison Break) By R.H. Strother (Company E, Fourth Kentucky Cavalry, of Milton, Ky. writes in 1901 Confederate Veteran.
During the early summer of 1864 a movement was started to organize the prisoners at Camp Chase into companies, regiments, and brigades, etc. After the organization was effected instructions were secretly given in regard to how the break for liberty should be made. July 4 was the day selected, and the hour ten o'clock, as the bread wagon was leaving the prison. The prisoners were not allowed to assemble in crowds, so we had to be cautious in our movements. About one hundred were selected to make the start. They were to take positions in groups of three and four men as near the gate as practicable without causing any suspicion. The signal agreed upon was to be "Fresh fish!" which was to be given by the leader of the charging squad when the bread wagon went out. The leader, with his group, was to drop in behind the wagon just before it reached the gate, and as it was passing out the signal was to be given, and the groups of the charging squad were to fall in rapidly, keeping up a continuous charge through the gate. The prisoners in the barracks nearest the gate were to rush out and fall immediately in the rear of the charging squad, those in barracks No.2 to drop in behind those of No.1, and so on, which would keep up a continuous charge, so that the gate could not be closed. Each Confederate was to have his pockets full of rocks, the only kind of ammunition available. Everything seemed to be working all right, and there was no indication that the officers in charge of the prison had suspected anything wrong. The morning designated came bright and beautiful. The prisoners were jubilant over the prospect of escaping: Every man was in his place, waiting for the time. All eyes were watching for the bread wagon to come and make its exit. Confusion came through the earlier arrival and departure of the wood wagon, and this fact caused the charge to result in a failure. The charging squad was so eager that they gave the signal as the wood wagon went out, and the main force were off guard, not expecting the signal at that time, so that the charging squad passed out through the gate, and the head of the main column not being in supporting distance, the gates were closed. There was picnic that day a few miles from the prison, and most all of the Federal officers and soldiers not on duty were going to attend. In fact, when the charge was made a large number of them were mounted ready to start, so that all they had to do was to surround the little squad and march it back to prison. The only damage done by the firing of the guard was the shooting of one of the prisoners through the arm. One of the Federal soldiers was also shot, and a cow grazing on the outside of the prison was killed.
The officers in charge of the prison admitted that, had the break been general at the time agreed upon, it would have been successful, as there would have been but few soldiers in camp; the others would have been at the picnic. This organization was confined, so far as I know, to Prison 3; and had charge been successful, then Prisons 1 and 2 would have been thrown open, and in all about seven thousand prisoners released. The foregoing is an imperfect sketch as I recall the facts. I wish others of those who were there and participated in the charge would give us their recollections of the event.

July 7, 1864:
The Democratic Standard, July 7, 1864, p 4, col 1.
"Poetical"
"Camp Chase Dedication
by D W C Lugenbeel, "H" co, 88th O.V.I..

On Sunday last, as you well know,
We had a Dedication;
The wind "great guns" did blow
But didn't stop the Dedication.

Ladies fair, all neatly dressed
Came to the Dedication;
The Crinoline was much compressed,
Still on went the Dedication.

The stately matron and pretty maid
Came to the Dedication;
To the new Chapel there was a raid
To witness the Dedication.

Black-eyed beauties with auburn hair
Were at the Dedication;
With sunny hearts they looked so fair
At the new Chapel Dedication.

They caused many hearts to quake
while at the Dedication;
As at the boys their heads did shake
Still on went the Dedication.

The little one's in mother's arms
Were at the Dedication,
They had to show their little forms
All at the Dedication.

Officers and soldiers too
Were at the Dedication;
They looked well in their suits of blue
At the Dedication.

Surgeons too, with their better halves
Attended the Dedication;
so handy, should the ceiling cave
During the Dedication.

A choir was there, and sang so sweet
All at the Dedication;
The music was really hard to beat
We had at the Dedication.

The Divines did talk and pray
At the Dedication;
To teach us sinners the Heavenly way
At the new church Dedication.

The sun shone hot, - the dust rolled
But on went the Dedication;
"Twas God, who had the people call'd
To attend the Dedication.

Now, that a Chapel we have got,
All nicely dedicated;
Let it every Sunday be the spot
where we all will be congregated.

Camp Chase, O., June 30, 1864.

July 8, 1864:
Delaware Gazette
About thirty rebel prisoners at Camp Chase attempted to rush out of a temporarily opened gate Monday, two of them were wounded by the guards and all recaptured
[ see the following article from Confederate Veteran for more details ]

Summer/Fall/Winter/ 1864-65
Prison Life in Camp Chase, Ohio : Confederate Veteran :1912: by Maj. J. Coleman Alderson, Charleston, W. VA.
I have long intended that before answering the "last call" I would give an account of experiences and recollections as a Federal prisoner of war, as I have been frequently requested to do by fellow sufferers in this prison, Especially by Capt. E. E. Bouldin, of Danville, VA. A statement of facts is so harrowing as to seem incredible except to those who were there and experienced the same terrible suffering. I will give only a brief outline, as the whole sad story would fill a large volume. Naturally after the lapse of nearly fifty years many occurrences are dimmed, like troubled dreams, but what I relate is confirmed by fellow prisoners.
On June 12, 1864 during Hunter's raid on Lynchburg, I was first lieutenant in command of Company A, 36th Battalion, Virginia Cavalry, Capt. Cornelius T. Smith commanding the battalion. While leading our advance we met and captured General Duffie's advance guard, three times our number. We had only time to disarm our prisoners, when we were attacked by Duffie's whole column, and in a hand-to-hand engagement I was wounded and captured near my birthplace, in Amherst County, VA. Suffering terribly while being hauled over rough roads, I was finally placed, with other prisoners, in the old Atheneum at Wheeling, W. VA. On our arrival we "Rebels" attracted much attention as we were marched from the depot. The streets were lined with old men, women, and children, some of whom were looking for friends. After a few days, we were conveyed to Camp Chase, Ohio, which we entered on July 3, 1864. On our long march through the mountains of West Virginia we were guarded by Ohio ninty-day "tin soldiers," who had never been in battle and knew nothing of that consideration which existed between real soldiers.
Camp Chase (named after Chief Justice Chase), situated four miles west of Columbus, Ohio, on level, sandy ground, was at that time divided into three sections, or prisons, by plank walls, or parapets, sixteen feet high, and known as prisons Nos. 1,2 and 3. There were double outside walls, with a board walk on the outside about three feet from the top, along which were the sentinel beats occupied day and night by soldiers armed with loaded muskets. There were "outlooks," or guardhouses, at each corner on the top of the parapets, in which the guards had protection during storms and blizzards and from which they could see to the next one as well as see over the prisons. Houses of the Federal officers and the camp of the guards were located outside and near the prison.
Prison No.1 contained nearly an acre of ground, in which was confined an average of one hundred and seventy-five officers and a few "disloyal" civilians. Nos.2 and 3 contained about five acres each, with 4,000 non-commissioned officers and privates in each.
In No.1 there were two one-story barracks made of plank nailed upright to stringers running parallel to the division wall about thirty feet from the outer side wall. They were set on posts three feet from the ground, about one hundred and twenty-five feet long, divided into eight rooms, each 15x17 feet, and from floor to roof about fifteen feet,. a door in the middle of each room, fronting the parapet, with a small window on each side and one in the rear at the back end of the passage way between the bunks, which were built one above the other three tiers high, with only about three feet between bunks. Twelve to fifteen men occupied each room, with two and sometimes three squeezed into one narrow bunk. We were furnished with only one blanket each. In cold weather we covered with these, and had nothing but hard planks under us. We had to "spoon" up keep from freezing until the hip bones of some wore through the skin.
We had never experienced such intensely cold weather. We frequently urged the officers to furnish us with straw to sleep on, which was promised but never furnished. In December and January the temperature often went from ten to twenty degrees below zero. We were not permitted to have fires in our little stoves at night, and the plank barracks, full of cracks, were very little protection to us. In our emaciated condition, with nothing to wear but our thin Southern clothing, some were frozen, and it is wonderful that any of us survived. In prison No.1, mess 15, there were fourteen officers and one "disloyal" civilian, as follows: Col. W.S.Hawkins, minister and poet from Tennessee; Lieut. Col. John Summers, 60th Virginia Infantry (Monroe County, W.Va.); Capt. Edwin E. Bouldin, Company B, 14th Virginia Cavalry (Charlotte County, VA.); Capt. James W. Sheffey, Company --, 16th or 17th Virginia Cavalry (Smith County,Va.); Capt. Robert F. Dennis, Greenbrier Rifles, Company E, 27th Virginia Regiment (Lewisburg, W. VA.); Captain Phillips, minister and founder of the Phillips Episcopal Female School, Staunton,Va; Captain Thompson, Confederate quartermaster, Ashland, VA.; Lieut. Elbert Fowler, Lowery's Battery (Monroe County, W. VA.) ;Lieut. Pollock, Tennessee; Lieut. J. W. Marshall, Company B, 14th Virginia Cavalry (Charlotte County, VA.); Lieut. "Tige," Louisiana Tigers; myself and Mr.__ Thomas, the "disloyal citizen," of Richmond, VA. There were two others officers whose names I cannot recall.
Captain Bouldin and I have passed our three-score years and ten, and we know of no other members of this mess living. A merciful Providence has dealt gently with us. Summers, Bouldin, Sheffey, and Fowler read law in prison, and lived to make distinguished lawyers. Captain Dennis was a prominent lawyer before the war, and afterwards served his State ably in the Senate. Captain Bouldin was exchanged shortly before General Lee's evacuation of Petersburg, where on his arrival he was immediately placed in command of his regiment. He led the last charge against Sheridan's Cavalry about two miles west of Appomattox C.H. to open the way for the retreat, capturing two pieces of artillery and several prisoners. This was after the surrender. He did not know that it had taken place.
I had been so afflicted for months that my life was despaired of. I was urged to take the oath of allegiance to the United States Government, which I of course refused. My father, residing in the North, through influential friends in the United States Congress secured an order from the War Department in January, 1865, for my release on parole. This I also refused, but was granted a special exchange in February, just before the general exchange was ordered. I was taken to Fort McHenry, near Baltimore, thence to Point Lookout, and exchanged at Bermuda Hundreds. I was carried to Ford's Hotel in Richmond, where I was very ill. After being confined to my bed for five or six weeks, I stole away from my physicians and went to the home of my grandfather, Capt. John Colman, in Amherst County. On the morning of April 10 I mounted my old gray war horse, which had escaped through enemy's lines when I was wounded and captured and had been caught by my faithful negro servant and started to join General Lee. After traveling a few miles I met some returning soldiers, who gave me the sad news of the surrender the previous day. I cannot express the sorrow I felt.
My initiation into prison life was quite exciting. I knew nothing of prison rules. Within one hour after entering the prison I was walking within a few feet of the wall, when on hearing "click,click" I looked up and saw the guard on top of the parapet with his gun leveled at me. I quickly said: "Hold on! Hold on! What are you going to do?" He replied, still holding his gun on me: "I'm going to blow h-- out of you because you d--n Rebel are across the "dead line". I replied that I had never heard of the "dead line". Raising his gun, he asked me if I was a "fresh fish." He then asked if I had come in with the batch of prisoners that afternoon. I said I had, and then he informed me that he had orders to shoot any d-n Rebel who came within ten feet of the prison walls. I thanked him for this information and went to my quarters.
The very next morning near nine o'clock I heard rapid firing on the outside. It was the Fourth of July. The prisoners in Nos. 2 and 3 heard that the infantry and cavalry guarding the prisoners were going that morning to Columbus to celebrate, leaving only one company on guard. It was customary for the bread and garbage carts to enter the wide double gates at 9:30 or 10 each morning. The prisoners determined then to make a break for liberty through these gates as they were opened for the carts, supposing no one would be left to dispute their exit but the guards on the parapets. They had armed themselves with stones, case knives, forks, and pieces of plank taken from their bunks with which to protect themselves. Many had assembled in the barracks nearest the gates ready to make the break. Unfortunately the cart drivers intended to celebrate also, and came in at nine o'clock instead of the usual time, just as the infantry and cavalry were drawn up outside of the gates ready to march. Our poor boys dashed through right into the armed guards, and were shot down. I heard the firing, ran to the gate of my prison, and while peeping through the cracks in the gate at the slaughter I was hailed by the guard on the parapet, who had his gun leveled at me. I again thanked the guard for sparing me. After these impressive incidents, I never forgot the "dead line".
Treatment of Prisoners.
The prisoners were guarded by one or two companies of the cavalry and the 88th Ohio Regiment of Infantry, the "Feather Bed Regiment." It had never been baptized in the fire of battle. Colonel Richardson, the commandant of the prison, and Captain Lamb, his assistant, were kind and educated gentlemen. Lieutenant Sankey, the provost marshal, had direct command of the guard and the prisoners. He was cruel, even brutal, in his treatment of the prisoners. Sometimes when we were able to reach Colonel Richardson or Captain Lamb our wrongs were righted. The guards were inconsiderate and mean, often shooting day or night unsuspecting prisoners without the least provocation.
The outrages were committed only in prisons Nos.2 and 3 while I was there, and not in No.1. We communicated between prisons by tying a note around a small stone and tossing it over the dividing walls when the guard's back was turned to us. In this way we got news from prisons Nos. 2 and 3 and from the outside when "fresh fish" came in. The Federal officers and guards had some respect for our officers, for there were some very distinguished men among us, though our quarters were often searched for tunnels and arms. In our prison "retreat" sounded at dusk and "taps" at eight o'clock in the winter and nine o'clock in summer. After that no light was permitted, even in the stoves, and all was quiet as death until the next morning. Shots were fired into the barracks at night without cause, often wounding or killing prisoners perhaps while sleeping. On one occasion the moon was shining through a back window in barracks No.2 on the opposite side from the guard, who called, "Lights out;" and as the moon did not go out, he killed two men sleeping together in their cold, narrow bunks. On another occasion a sick prisoner nearly frozen made a fire in the stove after "taps" and was quietly sitting by it when the sentinel, seeing the light, killed the poor fellow without warning. The prisoners were required to step across a ditch at roll call as their names were called out. On July 7 a sixteen-year old boy from Tennessee thought he heard his name called and stepped over the ditch. He was ordered back and was shot through the leg when attempting to return. His leg was amputated. On July 4 the boy's father, who was also a prisoner, was shot through the arm, and it had to be amputated. A young man was drinking water at the well, and as he turned to leave he was shot through the shoulder, the ball passing into a tent and wounding another man who was quietly reading his Bible. These outrages occurred without the least provocation. But I shrink from reciting more of their acts of brutality which were wantonly perpetrated. For a few weeks after being imprisoned some of us who had friends in the North secured money and purchased eatables from the sutlers, but we did not get all the money sent us.
Sometime in August we were notified that our rations were cut down to about one-third, and we were not permitted to buy or receive any eatables from the outside. This was done, they said, in retaliation for the treatment of Federal prisoners in the South. The order was rigidly enforced, and our suffering thereafter cannot be even imagined. For several weeks our daily rations consisted of twelve ounces of baker's bread, eight ounces of unsound salted white lake fish, bones and fish (sometimes when the head of the barrels were knocked out we smelled them in any part of the prison), one tablespoonful of navy beans, and a spoonful of vinegar. Some time in September these were cut down to a thin slice of bread or a tin cup of corn meal, spoiled salted lake fish, and eight or ten navy beans once or twice a week. We were given a small quarter of fresh beef for nearly two hundred men. Confederate officers would stand around while the beef was being cut up and scuffle to pick up from the ground pieces of bones or meat which would fly off the axe. The guards threw melon rinds, apple cores, and parings into the street, and enjoyed our scuffle for them. I often paid one dollar each for rats and ate them without bread, unless I chanced to buy a piece from some poor fellow who was near death. One day we got a stray dog in our room, but he escaped from us through the back window, or we would have had a feast.
Intestinal trouble and survey were quite general because of the food. We were ravenously hungry all the time, and hence we became peevish and quarrelsome. I attempted to strike Lieut, "Tige" with a stick of wood for insulting me. We would have been shot by the guard had not some of our comrades run in between us and the guard. Smallpox broke out all over the prison. I bunked with Lieutenant Pollack for two weeks before he was moved to the pesthouse with it. There was not enough vitality in me for a sore, and I escaped. We were vaccinated with poisonous vaccine matter, and many arms became terribly swollen. The arms of some in prisons Nos. 2 and 3 were amputated. Mortality increased rapidly during December, January, and February. Some days as many as thirty or forty Confederates were carried out to the "bone yard", as the Yankees called it. Our most delicate were stricken down first, while the hardier wore on to the last unless shot by cowardly guards. The prisoners did all the nursing, cleaning up the barracks, streets, etc. There was a small wood stove in each room. We did our own cooking, washing, etc. No one would trust his scant rations with another. Part of the time Major Hawkins was my mate in a top bunk. Here is where, lying flat on his stomach, he wrote the "Triple Barred Banner", "Bonny [sic Bonnie] White Flag", "Your Letter Came, but Came Too Late", and other beautiful Southern poems. We cut a hole in a plank to admit air and light and through this saw fields waving with golden grain and droves of fat cattle, hogs, and sheep passing along the national turnpike to market, while we, strangers and captives in this land of plenty, were starving to death. Attempts To Escape.
We were always scheming to escape. Only the hope of liberty gave us courage to live. Frequent false promises of exchange when the Federal officers feared we might make a successful break for freedom would brighten for a brief period, our dreary existence. We organized a small band of true and trusted comrades, bound together by an oath as sacred as that of Masonry. Captain Phillips, the fearless Christian gentleman, was selected as our leader.
Many attempts were made to escape by tunneling at night from under the barracks to the outside, but we were always betrayed by some Judas, whom were called "razorbacks" or a spy from outside pretending to be a "fresh fish." On one occasion the tunnel was completed, and our little band attempted to escape. Col. J.E.Josey, of the 15th Arkansas Regiment, Lieut. Fowler, of West Virginia, and Lieut. Warfield, of Kentucky, passed through the exit beyond the outer wall; but when the next man peeped out, he saw they were taken in by Sankey's guard. The order of the procession was immediately reversed, and the disappointed prisoners returned to their bunks. The captured officers were placed in irons. Lieut. Sankey ordered us to fill up the tunnel and give the names of those engaged in this enterprise. We positively refused to do either. The rations for the whole prison were then cut off. Already weakened by disease and starvation, our condition was now deplorable. After nearly three days without one morsel to eat, we got an audience with Col. Richardson, who countermanded Sankey's brutal order and gave us three day's back rations within a few hours. This was the only time in seven long months when we had something near sufficient food to satisfy our hunger. Another tunnel was dug, and when nearly completed a heavy rain fell and the ground caved in. This greatly excited Federals, and about the same orders were issued and punishment administered as before. Col. Riddlebarger, afterwards United States Senator from Virginia, offered to take all the punishment on himself if they would issue rations, but this brave and generous offer was firmly refused. Attempts were made to scale the walls. Preparations were made by constructing ladders from planks taken from our bunks and hidden conveniently under the barracks nearest the wall. We armed ourselves with stones, knives, and forks. At the appointed time, Sunday afternoon, religious services were held in the streets. Col. Hawkins and Captain Phillips preached from a box placed as near the "dead line" as possible. It was agreed that at the close of the benediction a rush should be made for the walls, which, with aid of boxes and ladders, were to be scaled, while some were to stone the nearest guards from the walls. Just before the close of the services we noticed that the guards were being doubled. We had been betrayed, and the attempt was therefore abandoned. We were always willing to risk our lives for freedom. A diseased and starving man cares little for life.
I am sorry to relate that a few in prisons No.2 and No.3, took the oath of allegiance to the United States government, and were released. A good many at one time who could not stand the pressure accepted a bounty of $500 and joined the United States gunboat service.
We were permitted to purchase from the sutlers are enormous prices only tobacco, paper, envelopes, stamps, needles, tread, buttons, soap, gutta percha, bone and pearl buttons, files, and sand paper with which many made rings, breastpins, watch charms, badges, etc., which were sold for "greenbacks". We could receive books, but no newspapers, and were allowed to have only one dollar at a time. When our rations were cut down, a dear Baltimore woman, who had been supplying me with delicacies to eat, sent me a box of valuable books, which I passed around among my fellow prisoners and which aided us in whiling away many dreary hours. In writing we were limited to one letter on one page of small note paper per week. All letters to and from prisoners were examined and stamped "Examined" before being received or mailed. Regular religious services were held. Rarely was an oath uttered or a vulgar story told.

August 1864

August, 1864:
Number of Prisoners
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 1,881
Joined During Month: 2,563
Total: 4,444
Transferred to other Stations: 2
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died: 36
Escaped: 0
Released: 19
Total Loss: 170
Sick: 160
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 145

August 14, 1864:
Terrors and Horrors of Prison Life , or Six Months a Prisoner at Camp Chase. By WilliamH. Duff; 1907.
Duff, William H. says...
Leaving Louisville late in the evening we crossed on the ferry boat and took cars, the next morning which was Sunday as we rolled into Cincinnati the church bells were ringing. Stopping to take cars were a large crowd to see Johnnie Reb. Some of them were in sympathy for us, One elbowed his way to where Humble was and gave him a bottle of whiskey. Humble secretly took a dram and gave the bottle back. It was here that we first learned that we were bound for Camp Chase, Ohio, the terrible Federal prison of the north.
On the same day (Sunday) about 4 or 5 p. m. the cars stopped 4 or 5 miles of Columbus, we got out of the cars and were told to fall into line. Some of us asked the guards if they were going to shoot us or if they were going to turn us loose in the woods like rabbits. The guards replied that we would soon find out what was going to be done with us. We were marched through the woods and came to a turn pike and across it and in full view was Camp Chase.
We asked the guards if that was the Bull Pen where they were putting all stray cattle. They replied that was the place where we would be at home for awhile at least until the war ended, a few moments later we were halted at the prison gates which were open ready for us.
We were counted off, our names called and the officer who had had charge of us the whole trip had a receipt given him by the prison authorities and his responsibilities ceased.
Then began a systematic [sic] search of the prisoners and if any of us should be fortunate enough to have any gold or silver money or green backs watches, rings or knives they were all taken from us if they were found. Humble, one of our Company had been taken prisoner once before at Murfreesboro, Tenn., and had served a time in prison at Camp Douglas I think, and he posted us on what would be done and secreting our knives the best we could many of us managed to keep them. But afterwards the knives were returned to those who had their's taken from them and as each one was searched we were passed on into the prison. Our company all kept together and passed in one after the other. There were two brothers by the name of Tomlinson each of them had two twenty dollar gold pieces and the first night after they had been captured they cut a slit on the inside sole of their shoes and hid their money and carried it into prison. But unfortunately for these two brothers they got separated, one was put in prison 2 the other in prison 3. All our Company were put in prison 2 after being captured on the 5th day of August, 1864.
We had the gates of prison 2 Camp Chase, Ohio closed on us and we were Confederate prisoners of war in confinement:
As I look back over the past and think of the days of 1861- 65 the time that tried the courage and nerve of men, I am glad, yes I am proud that I as a Confederate soldier and prisoner of war was confined at Camp Chase. Why it was looked upon by both North and South as being at that time the hardest on Confederate prisoners of all the federal prisons, and that I went in obedience to orders, doing my duty, hold the redoubt till the last if I was taken to prison, and above and over all it must to have been God's will for He rules.
Camp Chase is some three or four miles west of Columbus, Ohio and when our Company arrived there it appeared that there had been some change in the prison. It seemed that prisons 1, 2 and 3 had been before that, all by themselves and separated from the others but were all placed under one high wall with two partitions across thus making prisons 1, 2 and 3, around on the outside and near the top of the wall was a parapet or walk way for the guards and also there was a parapet for the guards on the partition wall, each of these last two parapets were on the inside of the prison 2 and along the parapets were lamps which burned all night and threw a dim glare over the entire prison.
The walls were some 12 or 14 feet high and built of heavy lumber doubled and let in the ground some two feet and heavily braced on the outside. Around the prison was a very large enclosure, walled in like the prisons. The prison was about in the center of this large enclosure which was done as a defence and protection against any raid that may be made by the Confederate cavalry to liberate the prisoners.
The illustration will help the reader to understand more clearly about Camp Chase and its prisons. I will not undertake to tell about Camp Chase before I went there August 14, 1864 and after I left there February 12 1865 and only tell to the best of my memory what took place in prison 2 where our Company was. This prison was about one acre large the grounds were level, there were no shelters of any kind only a few tents which were occupied by prisoners already there before we came.
These prisoners two weeks before our arrival had tried to escape in the day time by. rushing out of the gate when it was opened for garbage cart but was re-captured, one of them having his arm broken by a shot from guards, his arm was amputated. We at first drew about full army ration but this lasted only a few days when our allowance was cut down to one third ration or about enough for one scant meal which we divided into two parts, one portion we ate at about 9 p.m. the other portion at about 4 p.m. Our only, cooking utensils were tin cup and plates.
After forty-three years I can only call to memory a few names of those who were captured and belonged to the same Company B. l6th & 25th La. Regts. consolidated that I belonged to and among them were. J. C. Humble, First Sergeant Thomas J. Stephens, Sergeant John McDonough, Sergeant Robert Lively, Frank Maurice, Thomas Caperton, Charles Harper, Ed Scopina, W.J.Ludlow, Wm. Sapp, Joseph Bona, __ Clark, W. H. Duff, Wm. Kilgore of the same regimen and from Claiborne Parish, La. The redoubt on the extreme right of out [sic] company was defended by Clark Lively and Caperton, Caperton said that the three had laid their guns and accoutrements aside and were strengthing their redoubt and were taken by, surprise at the time of attack and as they got their guns three of the enemies were on redoubt, three guns were fired and the three enemies fell dead. Overpowered the three defenders of redoubt surrendered. Clark being shot after he had given up and put down his gun, he was the only one of our Company that was wounded. We were in strong redoubts and protected by head logs. Clark was not taken to Camp Chase, the rest of us were safely taken there and as I have already said were put in prison.
Lieut. Sankey was Provost Marshall of Camp Chase, a sergeant by the name of Jake called the roll, he was a real good fellow. I think that a Col. Richardson was in command at the time we were there. Letters for the prisoners were delivered from the top of the parapet to prisoners by either Lieut. Sankey or Sergeant Jack, the steps from the outside reached the top of the wall between prison 2 and 3.
There was a dead line about ten feet from the wall, when we would approach this line the guard would call out "Fall back, danger line" If any of the prisoners should be fortunate enough to have money sent them from friends this money was not allowed the person it was for but it was deposited with the sutler who receipted for it and then the sutler would give prisoners check instead of the money but never over the amount of five dollars and take a receipt for the amount given, these were in amounts from five to fifty cents, and read about like this, Good for 25 cents "at the sutler's store for prisoners only at Camp Chase, Ohio.
The sutlers store was on the outside and against the prison wall with a hold [hole] about one foot square and breast high from ground. The store was open from 9 a. m. to 4 p.m. and many useful things were sold to prisoners but at very high prices.
The authorities called for volunteers to work, promising full rations for the same. A great many of us, among them our entire Company went to work and were well fed our work was strengthing the walls of the prisons and digging ditches to drain the ground of the entire camp. This work went on for about a week when they wanted us to take the oath of allegiance and remain in prison, still work and get full rations. This I am proud to say our entire Company flatly refused and told them it was an out rage and an insult to an honorable and true Confederate soldier. But I am sorry to say that there were some that did take the oath, these the rest of the prisoners would not associate with, and would call them week kneed or razor backs.

September 1864

September, 1864:
Number of Prisoners
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 4,377
Joined During Month: 933
Total: 5,310
Transferred to other Stations: 104
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died: 46
Escaped: 1
Released: 30
Total Loss: 150
Sick: 221
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 153

Terrors and Horrors of Prison Life , or Six Months a Prisoner at Camp Chase. By WilliamH. Duff; 1907.
Duff, William H. says...
About the last of September smallpox broke out in a severe form, many were taken out to the pest-house while many remained. Of the many who died of this dreaded disease were some of our Company Robert A. Lively died Oct. l4th. Sergeant T. J. Stephens Nov. 24th. W. James Ludlow Dec. lOth. Ed Scopina Dec. 26th. There may have been others but these I can only recollect.
Robert Lively was my old messmate and bed-fellow, I was bunking with him and slept with him and nursed him while he was sick until he was taken to the pesthouse Humble and myself assisted him out into the pest-wagon he bade us good-bye saying that he never expected to see us again.
Some ten days later a federal called at barrack 12 and called for Humble, and myself, we went to him and he told us that he was a nurse at the pest-house and that he had nursed Lively until he had died that morning. He also told us that Lively had gotten well of small-pox and died of diphtheria.
While be was talking he undone a cloth and asked which was Duff, I told him that I was he, he handed me the knife that I had let Lively have saying as he did so, "Lively told me that you had rehandled this you hated to part with it but that you had let him have it and asked me to give it back to you for you to remember him. Then handing to Humble Lively's pocket-book and a comb he said, "this Lively told me to give to you, there is a lock of his hair in it and for you if you live to get home take these and give to his wife and to tell her that he died a Confederate soldier and a prisoner of war, thinking of her.
Some one in prison stole the knife from me but Humble was true to the trust that was placed in him and did as Lively requested.
Now comes the sad part of that war, there was a young Confederate prisoner of war in barrack 12 his name was Capt. McKnight and he joined the Confederate army in Alabama. He was liked by all of us and had worked with us, when a call for volunteers was made and a federal heard his name called. The federal told him that he knew a man by the name of McKnight and that he c
ommanded a Company of some State Troops, and lived not far from Columbus. Young McKnight told the federal that Captain McKnight was his father and that he, the son had gone south before the war had begun, loved the south and had made it his home and that he had taken up arms in defence of his southern home.
It was reported to the father and he came to see his son and tried to get him to return. While he was glad to see his father he refused to return. When Lively was taken to the pesthouse I had no bed-fellow, Young McKnight said as he had no one to sleep with him he would gladly, bunk with me. I told him that he knew that Lively had the small-pox and that I thought best for no one to sleep with me but he said that he had no fear of small-poxs and still insisted, so I agreed, and a few days later he was taken to the pest-house with smallpox. Three days later it was reported to us that young McKnight was dead. How true I do not know but I never saw him again but some thought that he had gotten well and returned home, others had it that only his remains were taken home for burial.
The winter of 1864 was a severe one at Camp Chase. We had stinted ourselves in rations for several weeks so we could have a large Christmas dinner and when that day came we had all saved enough to have as much as we could eat, but we all regretted what we had done for it did not agree with us and prison 2 had more than its share of sick men.

October 1864

October, 1864:
Number of Prisoners
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 5,140
Joined During Month: 458
Total: 5,598
Transferred to other Stations: 7
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died: 113
Escaped: 0
Released: 43
Total Loss: 200
Sick: 257
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 138

October 23, 1864 : James H.Godbey profile, buried at Camp Chase Cemetery

November 1864

November, 1864:
Number of Prisoners
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 5,448
Joined During Month: 162
Total: 5,610
Transferred to other Stations: 11
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died: 146
Escaped: 0
Released: 75
Total Loss: 234
Sick: 270
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 131

December 1864

December, 1864:
Number of Prisoners
Last Day of Proceeding Month: 5,410
Joined During Month: 113
Total: 5,523
Transferred to other Stations: 6
Delivery or Exchange: 0
Died: 153
Escaped: 0
Released: 81
Total Loss: 378
Sick: 535
Citizens or Political Prisoners: 130

December 1864:
Terrors and Horrors of Prison Life , or Six Months a Prisoner at Camp Chase. By WilliamH. Duff; 1907.
Duff, William H. says...
Cool weather began to set in, and more prisoners arriving, the authorities began to build more barracks to shelter us in winter. When the first few were built our Company occupied barrack 3 but after more were finished our company moved into barrack 12 and remained in it until we left prison. These barracks were two feet above the ground no planks were allowed on the ground making it impossible to make an effort to tunnel out as the same would be detected at once. The ground between the barracks was worked so that the water would run into the main ditch that led to the large drain of the prison. The ground was at all times well drained. We were well supplied with good wood, plenty of soap and abundance of water, there were two wells in prison 2, barrack 12 being built over the one that supplied water for cooking and drinking.
There were about eighty bunks were on each side with passage way in the center three tiers high there were two large box stoves to each barrack.
The ground plat of prison 2 is a fair illustration and gives a good idea and helps the reader to understand how everything was.
The large drain across the prison with a large tank was used to flush and wash off all the refuse and the prison was at all times kept clean. When the barracks were being built the prisoners would take scraps of lumber and with their knives cut it up into shavings these shavings we put on the hard part of our bunks to make our beds easy and for a short while we slept well but it was soon found out by the authorities and we were made to take the shavings out in the street and burn them.
The daily papers of Columbus came to our relief and raised a howl saying that it was a shame that helpless prisoners should be treated worse than dogs that any one would give a dog straw to lie on but that the prisoners at Camp Chase were made to burn shavings that they had labored for so hard to make their beds easy and that the north could howl ,about the Andersonville prison but they should stop and look at Camp Chase. Public sympathy was aroused and soon wagon loads of wheat traw was brought in for us, after that we were furnished with fresh straw often.
Our greatest suffering was hunger while we had as our daily allowance scarcely, one third rations we were often without anything to eat for three days at a time and this was done as a punishment to all of us and for some pretended offence some time for retaliation as they would say for the way the federal prisoners at Andersonville were treated then for another excuse they would claim that while tools were being used to clean up the prison grounds that a pick or shovel had been stolen and then we would be made to do without anything to eat for three days and during these days they would be probing the ground to see if there were any tunnels. Two other different times we were without anything to eat for three days. This was done on account of two prisoners making their escape each at different times. One of them made his escape through the drain where it passed under the prison wall. The federal who had charge of flooding the drain had failed to fasten the flood gate, this prisoner had noticed it and made good his escape. The other prisoner had a friend and confident to assist him and by trading among the prisoners he had gotten a large blue over coat and blue pants both of the regular federal uniform, he also got a federal hat as many of the prisoners had some part of federal uniform. He soon fitted himself out and from some of the prisoners he also got a citizen's suits and one extremely cold and bitter night he carried out his plan and made good his escape.
When it was very cold at nine o'clock at night, most of the guards were taken off of duty and only one third on, which gave the guards a much longer beat to walk and the one on the parapet between prison 2 and 3 with his back to the wind would throw the cape of his coat over his head and when he would get to where the steps went down from the top of the wall this guard would go down the steps a little piece to be out from the wind. The man to make his escape, he and his friend got under barrack 10 and when the guard passed on his beat and was going down the steps the two men hurried to a brace that came down from the parapet to about seven feet of the ground, the friend stooped down and the other getting on his shoulder was raised up until he caught the brace then standing upright on the man's shoulder he reached the parapet and followed the guard who hearing footsteps hurried up the steps and there he met the escaping prisoner. The guard thinking he was an officer of the guard saluted and was saluted in return.
The Confederate passed on down the steps, the friend sometime afterward told how it was all done and saying that his friend the Confederate who escaped said that he would go near the guard at the big gate at the turnpike lie in wait until the relief guard came which was every half hour on nights that were real cold and then he would be near enough to hear the countersign given and by that means would get out a free man which proved a success for it seems that he wore the Federal clothes most of the night for they were found some distance from Camp Chase where he had discarded them. The friend getting letters from him afterward.
There was a little Frenchman who belonged to the 13th LA. Regt. soon after he was confined in prison he wrote to the French Minister at Washington claiming he was a French subject and not a citizen of the United States and while he was on a visit to some friends who were in the Confederate army in Atlanta was taken a prisoner and that he asked to be liberated and be allowed to return to New Orleans and his plea was respected and he was liberated and furnished transportation to New Orleans where he wrote from, soon afterwards. As to wood, at first when the cold weather set in we thought that like our food it would be scarce, so we used it very sparingly hiding it under the lower bunks until we had a good supply on hand. One day Sergeant Jake was inspecting the barrack and saw where we had hidden the wood, he wanted to know what it meant, we frankly told him why we did it. With a sad voice he said, "men do not be uneasy about the wood, you may suffer from hunger but you shall not suffer from cold, I want you to keep the stoves hot day and night, take my word as a gentleman, I will see that you have plenty of wood, but you must burn what you have, there will be plenty more for you."
Sergeant Jake kept his word, the stoves were hot day and night as our bedding was scarce, but by, Jake's kindness we did not suffer from cold and as we now had such a poor way to cook that the authorities had a kitchen built on the end of each barrack and appointed a cook for each mess. There were 12 messes, 15 men or more as agreed to the mess. These cooks to a large extent robbed us of our rations we made a complaint and was allowed to choose a cook from our own mess which proved to be honest, this cook would call the mess when meals were ready, and let us all see that all was divided equally, when one would turn his back to the plates and another of us would call out "who's plate is this?" The one with his back to us would call a number so and so will take that plate". we were at meal times known by numbers. Sometimes it was either beef salt or fresh and at other times salt pork beans and bread.
When the weather would permit there could be seen all kinds of games going on. Chuck a Luck, Ke No. 21, 3 Card Monte, and different kinds of card games. The prisoners would try all kinds of exercises jumping, running, wrestling, boxing, etc.
For wrong doings there were different modes of punishment. One of the men had a pair of pants stolen from him and he made a complaint, a search was made the pants were found and the guilty man punished. There were two barrels at the end of the street next to prison 1, these barrels were placed about two feet apart, the guilty man had to stand on these for two hours each day for a week, he also had a barrel over his head and every five minutes he had to call out as loud as he could "Here is the man who stole the breeches, a guard on the parapet just above him would call out at times "D-- you times up, yell out among the prisoners". Beside Confederate soldiers there were citizens of different States and others that had no particular home. One of the latter was an Englishman I have forgotten his name though he was known by all as John Bull, he had been arrested in Cincinnati Ohio as a suspicious character having explosive and combustible matter with him and he refused to tell who or what he was or what was his occupation, only his name and that he was an Englishman but he would not ask the aid of England and he was sent to Camp Chase. He was liked by all the prisoners.
There was a head man to look after each barrack and in making detail to have the barrack swept this John Bull had been detailed to help to sweep his barrack which was No. 8, and said that no d-- Yankee could make him do anything.
Then came the severe punishment of different kinds and I will mention only two of them. The first was to, wear a ten pound ball and a long chain locked to each of his ankles for a week at a time. But the most severe one almost caused the man his life but he still remained firm. This punishment took place on a very cold and bitter day John Bull with both ball and chains still on his ankles was placed on the two barrels mentioned and then with a strong cord his two thumbs were tied together and he was drawn up by this cord until the toes of his shoes just touched the barrels and he was tied to the parapet overhead, he remained in this position for two hours in a cold and bitter wind and when he was cut down he could not walk. Two of our men picked up the balls and chains as they were frozen and put them on their shoulders and carried them while others carried the poor man to his barrack The prisoners murmured and complained at this treatment, and Bulls punishment was lighter from that time on. I was told two months afterwards that Bull had never given in.
Some prisoners made money (in checks) by, making things and selling them to the Yanks. A pair of fine boots was made and sold for $25.00, a beautiful sailing vessel, was sold for $25.00, a fiddle was made and sold for $25.00, all material being bought at the sutler's store. Rings etc brought good prices. I made some money (in checks) by, selling tobacco, I not using it made good profit on it. I also with a beef rib put sides to a pocket-knife as the wood sides had come off, Robert Lively comrade and bed fellow gave me fifty cents for it saying he wanted to take it home as a relic of Camp Chase. The prison had become crowded now and had about 3,000 prisoners in it, there was much sickness and many deaths and as the men would say, there was such a demand for coffins that there was a supply kept on hand and stored away under barrack No. 19 and when a man died his comrades would get a coffin and put him in it and then notify the authorities about him and a dump cart would be sent and the dead would be taken away. Sometimes it happened that the coffins were too short the foot piece would be knocked out and the mans feet would be exposed.

Winter 1864:
The Letter That Came Too Late.
By Col. William Stewart Hawkins
Written at Camp Chase

Your letter came, but came too late,
For Heaven had claimed its own.
Ah! sudden change from prison bars,
Unto the great white throne.
And yet I think he would have stayed
For one more day of pain,
Could he have read those tardy words,
Which you have sent in vain.

Why did you wait, fair lady,
Through so many a weary hour;
Had you other lovers with you
In that dainty silken bower?
Did others bow before your charms,
And twine bright garlands there?
And yet I ween in all the throng
His spirit had no peer.

I wish that you were with me now,
As I draw the sheet aside,
To see how pure the look he wore
A while before he died.
Yet the sorrow that you gave him v Still has left its weary trace,
And meek and saintly sadness
Dwells upon his pallid face.

"Her love." said he, "could change for me,
The winter's cold to spring;"
Ah! trust of thoughtless maiden's love!
Thou art a bitter thing.
For when the valleys fair, in May
Once more with bloom shall wave,
The Northern violets will blow
Above his humble grave.

Your dole of scanty words had been
But one more pang to bear;
Through to the last he kissed with love,
This tress of your soft hair.
I did not put it where he said,
For when the angels come
I would not have them find
The sign of falsehood in his tomb.

I've read your letters, and I know
The wiles that you have wrought
To win that noble heart of his,
And gained it--fearful thought!
What lavish wealth men often give
For a trifle light and small!
What manly forms are often held
In Folly's flimsy thrall !

You shall not pity him, for now
He's past your hope and fear;
Although I wish that you could stand
With me beside his bier.
Still I'll forgive.-- Heaven knows
For mercy you'll have need,
Since God his awful judgment sends
On each unworthy deed.

To-night the cold winds whistle by
As I my vigils keep
Within the prison deadhouse where
Few mourners come to weep.
A rude plank coffin holds him now;
Yet death always gives grace,
And I would rather see him thus
Then clasped in your embrace.

To-night your rooms are gay
With wit and wine and song;
And you are smiling as though
You had never done a wrong;
Your hand so fair that none would think,
It penned these lines of pain.
your face so white.- would God your soul
Were half so free from stain! v I'd rather be my comrade dead,
Than you of life supreme;
For yours the sinner's waking dread,
And his the martyr's dream.
Whom serve we in this life,
We serve in that to come.
He chose his way; you, yours;
Let God pronounce the fitting doom.


------------------------------------------------------

The Bonnie White Flag;
or, The Prisoner's Invocation To Peace.

Col. W.S. Hawkins, In Camp Chase Venrilator, 1864

Air--"Bonnie Blue Flag."

Though we're a band of prisoners,
Let each be firm and true,
For noble souls and hearts of oak,
The foe can ne'er subdue.
We then will turn us homeward,
To those we love so dear;
For peace and happiness, my boys,
Oh, give a hearty cheer!

CHORUS.__ Hurrah! Hurrah! for peace
And home, hurrah!
Hurrah for the Bonnie White Flag,
That ends this cruel war!

The sword into the scabbard,
The musket on the wall,
The cannon from its blazing throat,
No more shall hurl the ball ;
From wives and babes and sweethearts,
No longer will we roam, For ev'ry gallant soldier boy,
Shall seek his cherished home.

CHORUS

Our battle banners furled away,
No more shall greet the eye,
Nor beat of angry drums be heard,
Nor bugle's hostile cry.
The blade no more be raised aloft,
In conflict fierce and wild,
The bomb shall roll across the sward,
The plaything of a child.

CHORUS

No pale-faced captive then shall stand,
Behind his rusted bars,
Nor from the prison window bleak,
Look sadly to the stars ;
But out amid the woodland's green,
On bounding steed he'll be,
And proudly from his heart shall rise,
The anthem of the free.

CHORUS

The plow into the furrow then,
The fields shall wave with grain,
And smiling children to their schools,
All gladly go again.
The church invites its grateful throng,
And man's rude striving cease,
While all across our noble land,
Shall glow the light of Peace.

CHORUS


----------------------------------------------------------------

The Southern Banner.

By Col. W. S. Hawkins, C.S.A., Camp Chase, Ohio.

Sing ho! for the Southerner's meteor flag
As 'tis flung in its pride to the breeze,
From the happy glen and the beetling crag,
'Tis the pride of the land and the seas.

Hurrah! for the scintillant Cross of Red,
As it waves and glances in light,
Beneath in our brothers grandly tread,
To battle for God and right.

The flag for which Southrons had gladly died
Is the badge of tyrant now,
And for it no blush of joy or pride
Suffuseth the cheek or brow.

_________________

Sing ho! for the Southern's flag for aye,
And ho! for its beautiful Cross ;
It shall be the signal of bold array
Where the windy surges toss.

On a traitor's heart be the curses of night,
And palsied the craven hand
That fails in the hazard of furious fight
For God and our Native Land.

Hurrah! as over the hills it waves,
Or is borne on the ocean's breast,
Hurrah! as it leads our valorous beaves,
Or is drooped o'er the hero's rest.

Whether it greets the uprising sun
Or is bathed in the western light,
Beneath it shall all our hopes be won
For "God will defend the right."

Col. Hawkins was released from the Camp Chase Prison at the end of the war. He died November 7, 1865, a few months over twenty-eight years of age. [ Confederate Veteran 1902 ]

Women also helped the war effort:
No. 1 West Gay , Laboratory used to make cartridges twelve months they made 16,757,500
Ladies Aid societies , purchasing of goods, packaged and sent to the men in the field also visited hospitals.

End of 1864

Forward to Camp Chase Chronicles, 1865

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