Escapes
Information about prison escapes in Richmond, VA during the Civil War

Written Accounts

1893-01-24, Richmond Times; review of the play “A Fair Rebel,” based on the Libby Prison tunnel escape. Reviewer condemns the play’s attempt “to belittle the Southern and aggrandize the Northern character.”
1893-12-14, National Tribune; description of a clever escape of two men from Libby Prison
1893, Hamilton, Andrew G; "Story of the Famous Tunnel Escape from Libby Prison" Excellent published account regarding the tunnel escape from Libby Prison. One of the most reliable sources.
1895-06-13, National Tribune; refutation of the claim that prisoners at Belle Isle were "jolly fellows;" good details of the harsh treatment, and attempts to escape
1899-08-17, National Tribune; “A Union Man in Richmond;” part five of serial account. Describes the scene in Richmond in early to mid-1863. Mentions hedonistic activity at the Exchange, Ballard and Spotswood hotels; prostitution and gambling flourishing
1899-09-21, National Tribune; “A Union Man in Richmond” part seven of serialized account. Describes the tough economic conditions in Richmond in 1863 (with a nice description of the scene at the Old Market), the small-pox epidemic in Richmond
1899-09-28, National Tribune; “A Union Man in Richmond” part eight of serialized account. Describes the capture and execution of Timothy Webster, the Libby Prison escape (mentions prisoners being aided by Van Lew)
1900-10-08, Richmond Times; J. Philip Reynolds of Boston qualifies as executor of Elizabeth Van Lew’s estate – he will sell her personal property. Details of the manuscript, which he will publish
1900-11-09, Red Cloud (Neb.) Chief; embellished account of the life and career of Elizabeth Van Lew – describes her as “the Belle of Richmond” prior to the war and that a disappointed love affair was the reason she never married
1900-11-10, Richmond Dispatch; letter from former prisoner of war who knew Elizabeth Van Lew in 1861-62, inquiring as to her age when she died

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