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| Field name | Value |
|---|---|
| Collection Reference Number | GLC00686.13 |
| From Archive Folder | Collection of the Van Valkenburgh family |
| Title | Gerrit S. van Valkenburgh to Mary B. Van Valkenburgh on life as a prisoner of war |
| Date | 13 January 1865 |
| Author | Van Valkenburgh, Gerrit S. (fl. 1860-1866) |
| Recipient | Van Valkenburgh, Mary B. |
| Document Type | Correspondence |
| Content Description | Gerrit writes to his mother as a prisoner of war in Ohio. Says it has been a long time since he heard from her and that he has wanted to write to her earlier, but was travelling around so much he was unable to tell her where to reply until now. Reports that he arrived at Johnson's Island after stints as a prisoner in Kansas and Camp [Merlow]. Explains that his current situation is better: "Here we are as well treated as could be expected - have good fare - comfortable bunks & as much exercise as we desire." Has met a number of New York men in the prison as well as some acquaintances from Arkansas and Louisiana, but hears nothing from the South. Heard from his brother Frank, the first letter from his family since being captured. Sends an update on family or friends and says he thinks of and prays for her often. Claims "I am truly sorry that our ideas of wrong & right are so different - but believe that if we do what our conscience tell us is right All will be well." Top of letter says "Please write to me here." Signed "G.S. Van Valkenburgh." |
| Subjects | Civil War Military History Confederate States of America Congress Prisoner of War Religion Morality and Ethics Soldier's Letter |
| People | Van Valkenburgh, Gerrit |
| Place written | Johnson's Island, Ohio |
| Theme | The American Civil War; Women in American History; Children & Family; Health & Medicine |
| Sub-collection | Papers and Images of the American Civil War |
| Additional Information | Gerrit was the only one of the five Van Valkenburgh brothers who eventually sided with the Confederacy. Research suggests that Gerrit's mother disowned him for siding with the Confederacy. |
| Copyright | The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History |
| Module | Civil War, Reconstruction and the Modern Era: 1860-1945 |