Metcalf, John, fl. 1783 to Jonathan Metcalf

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GLC01412.01
GLC#
GLC01412.01-View header record
Type
Letters
Date
March 14, 1783
Author/Creator
Metcalf, John, fl. 1783
Title
to Jonathan Metcalf
Place Written
New York, New York
Pagination
1 p. : address : docket Height: 23 cm, Width: 18.5 cm
Language
English
Primary time period
American Revolution, 1763-1783
Sub-Era
The War for Independence

Letter written by John Metcalf, a captured Continental soldier on the prison ship Jersey in New York Harbor, to his father in Dedham, Massachusetts. Says he enjoys "tollerable good health" and was assisted by a Dr. Bacon of Salem, Massachusetts. Tells his father he has been there a month and sees no prospect for a quick release. Says conditions on the ship are "horrid beyond Description." During the first part of the winter he claimed 10, 15, or 20 prisoners died a day. Says health is better on the ship since there are fewer people on board.

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