May 17, 1865---Of Traitors and Miscreants

MAY 17, 1865:           

Following the Lincoln Conspirators’ trial very closely, the Chicago Tribune reports “Undoubted Evidence of Spangler’s Guilt”, provides details of the “Bermuda Yellow Fever Plot”, and announces that “Jefferson Davis is To Be Tried For Treason and Conspiracy.” On a lighter note, it also reports that “The Barnum Circus is bidding on Jeff Davis’ Gown”, presumably the ladies’ duds he was wearing when captured.

Major General James H. Wilson reports:

. . . I have arrested Capt H. Wirz C. S. A. notorious as Commandant of the Andersonville Prison . . . I forward herewith all the records &c of the Prison that could be found and also other papers relating to his cruel treatment of our men. I respectfully request that this miscreant be brought before a General Court Martial in Washington D. C. where the evidence in his case can be most readily obtained.