Here to Prisoners Listing Project

Some 5,000 Union soldiers were brought to the town of Blackshear during the months of November 1864-January 1865. They were transported along the Atlantic & Gulf Railroad from Savannah when Sherman was making his push toward the coast. Once Sherman was no longer a threat to the liberation of these prisoners they were sent to more suitable permanent prisons such as Thomasville, GA, back to Savannah, GA, and other prisons. There are a few soldier's diary accounts having passed through Blackshear. Such regiments as the 4th Vermont, 1st PA Reserves, 117th NY, and 9th Ohio Cavalry were held in Blackshear. It is also recorded by the National Archives that some 27 Union soldiers were buried in Blackshear until the close of the war when they were reentered at Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, SC. Their names are unknown. The prison site is marked by an historic marker, but at this time the property is in private hands. There is also a heritage museum in Blackshear which explains in more detail the Blackshear prison and the events which took place there. http://users.southeast.net/~rskhdr/pierce.htm

Libby Prison site at 20th and Cary streets Union officers were held in the building which is no longer standing. Plaques note the site on Richmond's flood wall.