Elizabeth Van Lew: The Unlikely Union Spy
Early Life and Education
Elizabeth Van Lew was born into a wealthy family in Richmond, Virginia, in 1818. She was educated in the North, where she developed a strong sense of patriotism. Despite her upbringing, Van Lew was a vocal opponent of slavery and secession.
Civil War Espionage
When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Van Lew saw an opportunity to help the Union. She volunteered to become a nurse at Libby Prison, where Union prisoners of war were held. Despite facing threats and criticism, Van Lew used her position to gather intelligence and provide aid to the prisoners.
Union Spymaster
In 1863, Van Lew was recruited as a spy by Union General Benjamin Butler. She established a spy network that provided valuable intelligence to the Union throughout the war. Van Lew wrote her dispatches in code and used a colorless liquid that turned black when combined with milk.
Libby Prison Escape
One of Van Lew’s most daring exploits was helping Union officers escape from Libby Prison. She planned and coordinated a daring escape tunnel, resulting in the escape of 100 officers.
Grant’s Greatest Source
General Ulysses S. Grant later praised Van Lew as his “most valuable source of information” from Richmond. Her spy network provided crucial intelligence that aided in the Union’s eventual victory.
Post-War Struggles
After the war, Van Lew faced ostracism and scorn from her former neighbors in Richmond. She was labeled a traitor and lost her social standing and fortune. Despite these challenges, she continued to work for the Union, serving as postmaster of Richmond for eight years under President Grant.
Legacy
Elizabeth Van Lew’s contributions to the Union cause were significant. She risked her life to provide valuable intelligence, aided prisoners of war, and helped plan daring escapes. Her legacy as a courageous and dedicated spy continues to inspire today.
Additional Details
- Van Lew’s secret diary, which she kept buried in her backyard, revealed her true feelings about the war and secession.
- Van Lew’s African-American servant, Mary Elizabeth Bowser, played a key role in her spy network.
- The mutilation of Col. Ulric Dahlgren’s body after his death outraged Van Lew, and she vowed to recover his remains.
- Van Lew struggled financially in her later years and relied on the support of friends and family to survive.
- Despite the hardships she faced, Van Lew remained a staunch supporter of the Union and never regretted her actions.
