The Business of Captivity: Elmira and Its Civil War Prison

Michael Gray’s audiobook explores the profound social and economic effects of the Union prison at Elmira, New York, on its surrounding community during the Civil War era. Drawing on rare archival materials, it provides new insights into the prison’s history, including its high mortality rate and unique prison culture. This study offers a nuanced look at one of the most significant yet controversial aspects of Civil War history, highlighting the impact of captivity on both prisoners and the local population.