Letter

Wells Sponable to and Inspecting Officer, January 29, 1865

Chicago, IUl., January 29, 1865.

Col. B. J. SWEET, Highth Regt. Veteran Reserve Corps, Comdg. Post of Chicago:

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 28, 1865:

Conduct—good. Cleanliness—good. Clothing—all that is necessary. Bedding—all that is necessary, except blankets. State of quarters—good; well ventilated and clean. State of kitehen—in as good condition as those of garrison. Food, quality of—good; same as used by garrison. Food, quantity of—all that is necessary. Water—all

CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.—UNION AND CONFEDERATE.

that is necessary. Sinks—very clean; washed every morning. Police of grounds—good. Drainage—good. Police of hospital—fair. Attendance of sick—all that is necessary. Hospital diet—good. General health of prisoners—goed. Vigilance of guard—thorough.

Remarks and suggestions.

SMuolemumbenoi prisoners lastroporti seen eee aes eee eee 11, 436 Whole number of prisoners died since last report ……………——– 83 Whole number of prisoners released since last report………….——- 41 Mota eGrea se. to se ee ek sek Cray e Ate ds lor ee oa 124 MotalentiMpels o mpris On era present A ee eee oe eae 11,

I respectfully recommend that the sutler be directed to keep constantly on hand and for sale to the prisoners onions and cabbage whenever they can be procured.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

Captain and Inspecting Officer.

Editor's Notes
From: Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, Indian Territory, 1861–62. Location: Chicago, IUl.. Summary: Wells Sponable reports to Col. B.J. Sweet on January 29, 1865, that Camp Douglas prisoners' conditions, including health, cleanliness, food, and security, are generally good despite 83 recent deaths.
Sources
The War of the Rebellion: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 8 View original source ↗