PS Past Masters

Old Photos from Philip Swigert Lodge

Civil War Connections: Some of the members of Philip Swigert had some civil war connections. As you can see from the letter that was found in the lodge archives and transcribed below:

Camp Douglas, Sept 21st '63

My Darling Sister

Once more have I bin made happy by the reception of another of your kind and interesting letters I was truly glad to hear from you and know that I was still remembered by my lovely sister which I think so often of when alone in this dark gloomy work. Many a night while alone on my duty as a Soldier have I thought of my too lovely sisters wandering if they were thinking of their brother whose whole life was devoted to their care. Yes, often I have thought of you when entering into battle not knowing whether I would get out alive or not but I have been spared so far and hope yet to be permitted to return to those I love as only a brother can. Sis, I know of nothing to interest you with for I have no opportunity of hearing as knowing anything outside the walls of the prison and what is done inside is to bad to tell for this is no good. The boy seem to try to do as mean as they know how, their is all kind of vice going on in the way of gambling and fighting and sometimes a little whiskey drinking. While I am writing this there is too boys fighting in the room but I keep my seat as I am not interested. I suppose you had had a fine time at the wedding of our cousin Kate. I was surprised to hear of her and Henry getting married. I suppose he enjoyed (sic) was tight I hope now he will quit drink and live a sober life. Present them my best wishes for a long and prosperous life. I am sorry you did not send me your (Sic) with your letter for it was directed exactly right and came in a short time. Their is some talk of us being sent to Rock Island on the Mississippi River sometime next month but I hardly believe it and again hear that we are to be exchanged and am afraid that is a mistake. Write as soon as you receive this, give me all of the news. Hoping a speedy termination of this war.

I remain as ever,

John

Camp Douglas was at first a Union training camp that later became a Union prisoner of war camp during the US Civil War. It was located in Chicago, IL.