The full content of this document is only available to subscribing institutions. More information can be found via www.amdigital.co.uk
If you believe you should have access to this document, click here to Login.
| Field name | Value |
|---|---|
| Collection Reference Number | GLC01412.01 |
| From Archive Folder | Documents Relating to 1783 |
| Title | John Metcalf to Jonathan Metcalf discussing his health and prison conditions |
| Date | 14 March 1783 |
| Author | Metcalf, John (fl. 1783) |
| Recipient | Metcalf, Jonathon |
| Document Type | Correspondence |
| Content Description | Written by 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. |
| Subjects | Military History Revolutionary War Continental Army Prison Camp Prisoner of War Maritime Navy Global History and Civics Health and Medical Death Atrocity |
| People | Metcalf, John (fl. 1783) |
| Place written | New York, New York |
| Theme | Naval & Maritime; Health & Medicine |
| Sub-collection | The Gilder Lehrman Collection, 1493-1859 |
| Copyright | The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History |
| Module | Settlement, Commerce, Revolution and Reform: 1493-1859 |