Edwin Frey to James Washburn, January 16, 1865

SIR:

I have the honor to submit the following inspection report of the condition of the prisoners of war at this station for the week ending January 15, 1865:

Conduct—good. Cleanliness—good. Clothing—good. Bedding— good. State of quarters—fine. State of mess-houses—good. State ot kitchen—clean and in good order. Food, quality of—first rate. Food, quantity of—sufficient. Water—good. Sinks—good and clean. Police of grounds—good. Drainage—good. Police of hospital—very good. Attendance of sick—very good. Hospital diet—in conformity to surgeon’s instructions. General health of prisoners—very good. – Vigilance of guard—good.

Remarks and suggestions.—I would most respectfully represent to your consideration the want of fresh air in all the prison rooms of this building. To my knowledge there are no means provided for to procure this indispensable and valuable gift of God, the windows being all barred and therefore cannot be opened. There being no other means of ventilation connected with the prison, the air necessarily at times becomes so heavy and corrupt that the occasional sickness of the prisoners confined cannot but be attributed to this grievous want of fresh air.

very respectfully, your obedient servant,