The building opposite known as the Irving Block was used as a prison by the Federal Government from 1862-65. Much needless suffering was imposed upon the prisoners. So much so that President Lincoln ordered an investigation of the conditions there. Both Confederate soldiers and citizens of high rank were confined within its walls. At the close of the war, April, 1865, about 1200 soldiers and 100 citizens, both men and women, were incarcerated there. There's no stigma on it. This, our Confederate story; Never a prouder nation lived In whom her sons could glory.
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