Today in History:

February 20, 1863

Had Rev. Feete of Woodstock, Virginia, to dinner. He somehow made his way North with his small son to escape the terrible poverty rife in the valley. His wife had died and sold all personal possessions to buy food and a little clothing. His son wore an old stained army blanket for a coat. All the basic items of living were far beyond his reach. He hopes to find employment here, that he will never return to Virginia.