Important Libby Prison Relic

Important Libby Prison Relic - Inventory Number: REL 118

“Brick Clippings from Libby Prison Richmond, VA. Made in tunneling for the Memorable Escape of Prisoners in 1863.”

Led by Colonel Thomas E. Rose of the 77th Pennsylvania Infantry, the prisoners started tunnelling in a rat-infested zone which the Confederate guards were reluctant to enter. The tunnel emerged in a vacant lot beside a warehouse, from where the escapees could walk out through the gate without arousing suspicion. Since the prison was believed to be escape-proof, there was less vigilance by the authorities than in other camps, and the alarm was not raised for nearly 12 hours. Over half the prisoners were able to reach Union lines, helped by their familiarity with the terrain after serving in McClellan's Peninsula Campaign of 1862.

Comes housed in 8 x 12 riker display case with black velvet and descriptive card.

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Inventory Number: REL 118