Processed by: Archives Staff ; machine-readable finding aid created by:Eric Weig
Louis Singleton Price papers
1860-1866, 1863-1866 (bulk dates)
University of Kentucky Special CollectionsLexington, Kentucky 40506
Arranged chronologically.
Collection is open for research.
[Identification of item], Louis Singleton Price papers, 1860-1866, 1863-1866 (bulk dates), 1VF87M27, Special Collections, University of Kentucky.
59 pieces.
Soldier. Louis Singleton Price, of Nicholasville, Ky, entered the Confederate Army while still a minor. Captured by the Union, he was held prisoner, first at Camp Chase, Ohio, then at Camp Douglas, Ill. After at least two unsuccessful attempts, he succeeded in escaping from Camp Douglas, fleeing to Canada where he spent most of his time in Toronto, Ont. under the alias of William Singleton. Throughout his stay in prison and in exile, he associated with members of John Hunt Morgan's cavalry and other escaped Confederate soldiers. Shortly after returning to Nicholasville, he died (October, 1867) and was buried with his father and two of his brothers, in the Lexington Cemetery.
The majority of the Price collection is comprised of photocopies of correspondence relating to his experiences as a Confederate prisoner of war at Camp Chase (Ohio) and Camp Douglas (Il.) The letters describe poor living conditions, the escape attempts and finally the successful escape from Camp Douglass. John Hunt Morgan and members of his cavalry, many of them fellow escapees, are discussed in several letters. The defeat of Union General Rosecrans by Confederate General Bragg is mentioned in one letter and another provides observations on the Canadians and their dedication to abolitionism and "Negro equality". Also included is Price's obituary and memorial card as well as photographs of tombstones of family members.