Van Valkenburgh, Gerrit S. (fl. 1860-1866) to his brother
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00686.12 Author/Creator: Van Valkenburgh, Gerrit S. (fl. 1860-1866) Place Written: Johnson's Island, Ohio Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 11 January 1865 Pagination: 1 p. : address ; 24.6 x 19.9 cm. Order a Copy
Written by Gerrit as a Confederate prisoner of war. References his brother's letter of 23 December 1864. Is glad because the letter was "the first word of tiding I have had from you in answer to my letter & I began to fear that your displeasure at my course had led you to think that I was not worthy of a word from your pen." Reports that a Miss [Hill] gave him $211 and brought photographs of his family. Says she was the only lady he has spoken to since being captured. Says he arrived at Johnson's Island on 28 December 1864. Declares that his Christmas and New Years were not happy, but thanks him for the good wishes. Writes that the weather is cold and disagreeable, but that he does not have to be out in it. Wants word of their mother and father as well as other family and friends. Signed "Gerrit" and provides his cell number: "Block 5 Miss 1 Co 9 Johnsons."
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