Why was the geographical location of Andersonville chosen?
The geographical location of Andersonville in southern Georgia was chosen for the site of a Confederate military prison during the American Civil War due to a few significant factors:
1. Access to Railroads: Andersonville was located near the intersection of two important railroad lines, the Southwestern Railroad and the Macon & Brunswick Railroad. This made transportation of supplies and prisoners more efficient, as well as facilitated communication with other Confederate military installations.
2. Proximity to Key Confederate Cities: Andersonville was situated within reasonable proximity to key Confederate cities like Macon and Columbus. This proximity allowed for easier movement of troops and supplies to and from the prison facility.
3. Isolation: The location of Andersonville was somewhat remote and surrounded by dense forests, making it more difficult for prisoners to escape. This isolation and natural barriers provided additional security for the prison facility.
4. Availability of Natural Resources: The area around Andersonville was rich in natural resources such as timber, which could be utilized for construction and fuel purposes. Additionally, nearby water sources like the Sweetwater Creek provided vital water supply for the prison.
5. Health Considerations: The site was believed to have a healthy climate due to its sandy soil, abundance of pine trees, and proximity to a swamp that was thought to have beneficial and healing properties. During the war, the prevailing belief was that fresh air, sunlight, and natural surroundings were beneficial for the health of prisoners and could contribute to their recovery.
Overall, the geographical location of Andersonville was selected based on strategic and practical considerations in terms of transportation, security, availability of resources, and perceived health benefits.