POW writes home to inform parents of his capture and the death of his brother

Date Written

May 18, 1864

Member of Series

Robert Collins was 26 years old when this was written.
It was written 159 years, 4 months, 15 days ago.
It was a Wednesday.

Point Lookout, Maryland
May 18, 1864

J. W. Collins

Dear Father,

I will write you a few lines. I was captured on the 16th near Richmond. George was killed early in the engagement. Frank was killed last winter at Beans Station, East Tennessee. Dick was safe when I saw him last. I am well but needing clothes very bad, have no money please send me some. Tell mother to write to me. Give my respects to all. I will close be sure to write. Direct your letter thus,

RB Collins
Point lookout
Co. A 10th Division
Prisoner of War.
Care of Maj. Heymouth, Provost Marshall,

Goodbye your son, Robert

Scans of Letter