Our Collection

At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Smith, Thomas B. (1838-1923) to unknown

High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.

Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00887 Author/Creator: Smith, Thomas B. (1838-1923) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 May 1865 Pagination: 1 p. ; 21 x 13 cm. Order a Copy

Addressed to "Dear Col." Smith, a Confederate brigadier general, writes as a prisoner of war in Fort Warren, Boston, Massachusetts. "I have applied this morning to the Sect. of War to take the Oath of Allegiance. I think the cause for which we have so long contended perfectly hopeless ... I don't think there is anything to be gained by staying longer in prison." States that he would like the recipient to accompany him to Tennessee if he so decides.

[Draft Created by Crowdsourcing]
Fort Warren, May the 14th 1865
Dear Col,
I have applied this morning to the sect of war to take the Oath of Allegiance I think the cause for which we have so long contended perfectly hopeless. Would be glad to have your company to Tenn, if you have made up your mind to remain in the country I don't think there is any thing to be gained by staying longer in prison,
I am Truly your Friend
Thos B Smith C.S.A.
Prisoner of War
Fort Warren
Mass

P.S.
let me hear from you T.B.S

Smith, Thomas B., 1838-1923

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources