Conditions Governing Access

The collection is open for research use.

Preferred Citation

MSS 16309, John McKnight Brayton diary, Small Special Collections Library at the University of Virginia

Immediate Source of Acquisition

This collection was purchased from Ian Brabner, Rare Americana by the Small Special Collections Library at the University of Virginia on March 28, 2017.

Scope and Contents

John McKnight Brayton diary, 1865 April-May, 0.03 cubic feet, while he was serving with the United States Christian Commission in devastated Richmond. Brayton's job included supplying wounded soldiers with bibles, crutches, paper, food, and other necessities, which is detailed in his diary. He also wrote letters for the soldiers to their family members and they are included at the end of the diary. There are descriptions of Brayton's trip to Richmond and the scenery as his boat neared the former Confederate capital, including the wrecks of the CSS privateer Florida and the ram Atlanta, as well as incidents when landing at City Point. Also mentioned are Rebel General Winder, Provost Marshal General M. R. Patrick, Castle Thunder Prison, Hollywood Cemetary, and Shockoe Hill Cemetery.