Father Peter Whelan
Father Peter Whelan was an Irish priest that came to Andersonville as a volunteer in June of 1864. Father Whelan was known around the prison for keeping the soldiers’ spirits alive and leading them in prayer. He was a source of inspiration and hope to many of the prisoner at Andersonville. He was not only a sign of hope for the prisoners, but also comforted the sick and dying Confederate guards as well. He didn’t discriminate between the two sides of the conflict. Father Whelan is known for his $16,000 contribution. He borrowed enough money to purchase 10,000 pounds of flour for the inmates.
This flour was cooked into bread and distributed to the prisoners, and because of this it saved many lives. Father Whelan died of February 6th, 1871 at the age of 69. His memorial is located on the site where the prison once stood and is thanked for his work at Andersonville Prison. The local chapter of the Knights of Columbus in Albany, Georgia hosts an annual Mass and picnic to honor Father Whelan and the fallen soldiers at Andersonville. (The bakery and hospital are no longer standing, but the picture to the right shows where they once were at the southern end of the prison).