Illustrating Hell Upon Earth: The Harrowing Story Behind Thomas O'Dea's Andersonville Prison Portrait
After enduring the horrors of Andersonville Prison during the Civil War, Thomas O'Dea created a detailed lithograph depicting the prison's overcrowding and the suffering of its inmates, which included over 30,000 prisoners in August 1864. His artwork, dedicated to those who perished, is now displayed at the Andersonville National Historic Site, which serves as a cemetery for over 20,000 U.S. military personnel. This Memorial Day weekend, the site will host events honoring veterans, reflecting on the sacrifices made during a conflict that led to the establishment of Memorial Day in 1868.
May 26, 2025
