Ohio's Kellys Island in the Civil War

From the Nov. 15th Ottawa County (Ohio) Beacon

The new book "Kellys Island 1862-1865: The Civil War, the Island Soldiers & the Island Queen" by Leslie Korenko was reviewed.

By 1864, 100 of the total 600 residents of Kellys Island had enlisted in Union ranks.

One of these, Jacob Rush of the 3rd Ohio Cavalry lied about his age and enlisted at age 15. For his efforts, he was wounded twice and just before the end of his enlistment, was captured, accused of being a spy and sent to Cahaba Prison. While there, he helped organize an unsuccessful escape and survived a flood.

When he was released,he was one of over 2000 returning Union prisoners on board the Sultana when an explosion sank the ship. Of 550 survivors, 150 more died within 24 hours. This was one of the worst maritime disasters in US history.


Leslie Konerko also delves into the Confederate attempt in September 1864 to free the prisoners held on Johnson's Island. The steamers Philo Parsons and Island Queen were seized in Put-In-Bay with plans to seize the USS Michigan and turn its gins on the prison.

On the Island Queen were 25 soldiers of the 130th Ohio Volunteer Militia who were just returning from 100 days service.

Looks like a great read about Ohio's North Coast during the war.

A Little-Known Aspect of the War. --Old B-Runner