1864: Samuel Jones Carrington to Jane Eliza (Brown) Bestor

The following letter was written by Samuel Jones Carrington (1838-1875), the son of Colonel Joseph Littlebury Carrington (1810-1890)—proprietor of the famous Exchange Hotel at the corner of 14th & Franklin Street in Richmond, Virginia. His mother was Adaline Sidney Jones (1816-1887). Samuel was married after the war to Susan Evelyn Kelly (1843-1922) and when he died, he left two children. Samuel served for a time in Co. B, 3rd Virginia Infantry, Local Defense Troops.

Carrington wrote the letter to Jane Eliza (Brown) Bestor (1820-1885), the wife of John Rollin Bestor, Sr. (1813-1867). This Baltimore couple had twin sons who served in the Maryland Guard that became Co. B, 21st Virginia Infantry. Eliza seems to have corresponded with numerous Confederate prisoners seeking information about her sons or other relatives. The Bestor brothers’ letters have been transcribed and may be found at 1861-65: The Bestor Brothers of Baltimore.

T R A N S C R I P T I O N

Point Lookout, Maryland
August 23rd 1864

Mrs. J. Eliza Bestor,

Your letter of the 19th August is at hand. I am an old acquaintance of W. C. Tompkins. I was captured on the 6th May, two days previous to Mr. Thompkins’ capture. I am a citizen of Richmond & was captured while on a visit to Charles City County, Virginia. I am acquainted with Mr. Robert Tompkins but very slight—know him when I see him. The gentlemen who comprise my mess are A. T. Burton & John H. Freeman of Richmond, old friends of W. C. Tompkins & also acquaintances of Robert Tompkins. Mr. Tompkins has no doubt gone to Richmond. Very glad to give any information with regard to my old friend W. C. T. which would have a tendency to console those interested in his welfare. And now with my best wishes &c., allow me to subscribe myself very respectfully, — Sam’l J. Carrington