The following letter was written by Godfrey D. Dotson (1827-1919) of Lawrence county, Kentucky, enquiring on the life of his son, Andrew Dotson, an exchanged prisoner in the hospital at Annapolis, Maryland. Unfortunately I cannot conform Godfrey Dotson’s residency in Lawrence county, nor do I find a son of his by the name of Andrew in on-line genealogical and census records. I cannot even find a military record or POW record for Andrew searching under the name Dotson and Dodson.

Transcription

State of Kentucky
Lawrence county
August 7, 1863

To the Stewards of the General Hospital of Annapolis, Md.

Dear sir I take my pen in hand to inform you that I have a son that was captured a prisoner on the 7th day of December last by John B. Floyd’s Brigade of Rebels and sent to Richmond, Virginia, and was swapped out by the Yankees party on the 4th of April last. My son was in the hospital at Maryland, Annapolis, on the 3rd day of May. That is the account we have heard of him to be sure.

We heard that he deceased at that place. We then heard that he did not so I want as a friend to make strict inquiry and write to me if you please and you will oblige a friend and distressed parents on the account of a lovely son. Also write to me where to mail my letters and what will satisfy you for your trouble and I will send you the money.

The name of the boy is Andrew Dotson. His age is 17. His complexion is reasonable fair, yellow hair, blue eyes, and raw bond. His form is tall & spare built. I will say, dear son, if you be on the stage of action and gets word from your parents, come without delay to Louisa, Kentucky, and then inquire for me.

Another line to the steward of hospital [and] that is to direct your letters to Lawrence county, Kentucky, Louisa Post Office. Write to me, let the case be as it may. So no more at present—only remaining your friend until death. From Godfrey D. Dotson

to the steward of the General Hospital of Maryland, Annapolis.