Salisbury Confederate Prison Association - Preserving the History of the Prison and Those Who Were There

The Salisbury Confederate Prison Association, Inc. is a non-profit organization established in April 1999, dedicated to preserving the history of the Salisbury Confederate Prison in North Carolina. This organization focuses on promoting understanding and preservation of the site and the historical events that took place there during the Civil War.

Salisbury Confederate Prison, located in Salisbury, North Carolina, was originally a cotton factory before being repurposed as a prison in 1861. It housed Union soldiers captured by Confederate forces, and over its four years of operation, it became notorious for its overcrowded and harsh conditions, particularly in the latter part of the war. The prison witnessed a significant loss of life due to disease, malnutrition, and inadequate shelter, marking it as one of the grim sites of the Civil War.

The association conducts research, collects and compiles information about the prisoners who were held there, and shares findings through various channels such as lectures, tours, and a quarterly newsletter named "The Prison Exchange." Membership is open to anyone interested in this history, with annual dues supporting their activities.

Mission and Objectives

The Salisbury Confederate Prison Association focuses on several core objectives:

Preservation of Historical Sites

The association works to preserve the remnants of the prison site and its surrounding areas. This includes maintaining any remaining structures, artifacts, and landscapes that are historically significant.

Education and Research

Educating the public about the history of the Salisbury Confederate Prison is a key mission. The association organizes lectures, tours, and educational programs. Additionally, it supports research efforts by providing resources and archives to historians and scholars.

Commemoration and Memorials

Honoring the memory of those who were imprisoned and perished at Salisbury is a fundamental part of the association's activities. This includes organizing memorial services, maintaining cemeteries, and erecting monuments to ensure that the stories of the prisoners are not forgotten.

Activities and Programs

The Salisbury Confederate Prison Association offers a variety of programs and activities to fulfill its mission:

Historical Tours: Guided tours of the prison site and related historical locations are provided to give visitors a detailed understanding of the prison's history and its impact during the Civil War.

Educational Workshops: Workshops and seminars are conducted to educate teachers, students, and the general public about the Civil War era and the specific history of Salisbury Confederate Prison.

Preservation Projects: The association undertakes various preservation projects, such as restoring artifacts, conserving documents, and maintaining the structural integrity of any surviving buildings related to the prison.

Research Support: Supporting academic and independent research is a key activity. The association offers access to archives, documents, and other historical resources that are crucial for in-depth studies of the prison and its significance.

Membership and Donations

Membership in the Salisbury Confederate Prison Association is open to anyone interested in supporting its mission. Members receive regular updates, newsletters, and invitations to special events. Donations are also crucial for the association's operations, funding preservation projects, educational programs, and memorial activities.

The Salisbury Confederate Prison Association is governed by a board of directors, which includes historians, preservationists, and community leaders. The board oversees the strategic direction, financial management, and programmatic activities of the organization to ensure alignment with its mission.

Inmate Search in North Carolina

The inmate search process in North Carolina involves several methods and resources, both online and offline, to locate individuals incarcerated within the state. This process is essential for family members, legal professionals, and others needing to verify an inmate’s location or status. The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction (NC DAC) is primarily responsible for maintaining and providing access to inmate records. These records include information about the inmate’s current location, sentence details, and release dates.

In North Carolina, the inmate search process begins with understanding the structure of the correctional system. The state has various facilities, including state prisons, county jails, and federal prisons. Each of these facilities may have its database or system for tracking inmates. The NC DAC oversees state prisons, while individual county sheriffs manage county jails. The Federal Bureau of Prisons handles federal inmates, though these are less common for state-specific searches.

Online Inmate Search Methods

Conducting an online search for current inmates in North Carolina counties involves accessing the individual county’s jail or sheriff’s department website. Each county typically maintains its database of current inmates, which is accessible to the public. These databases are often updated daily and include information such as the inmate’s name, booking date, charges, and bond amount.

To start, one must visit the specific county’s website where the inmate is believed to be housed. For example, Wake County, Mecklenburg County, and Guilford County all have dedicated inmate search portals. These portals allow users to search by name, booking number, or other identifying information. The search results provide details about the inmate’s current status, charges, and next court dates.

The information provided by county inmate search tools can be highly detailed. It typically includes the inmate’s mugshot, demographic details (age, gender, race), the facility where they are housed, and a list of charges. Some counties may also provide additional information such as court dates, bail amounts, and past offenses.

It is also possible to conduct a more generalized search through third-party websites that aggregate data from multiple county databases. These websites can provide a broader search capability but may not always have the most up-to-date information. It is often recommended to verify details through official county websites for the most current data.

North Carolina Department of Adult Correction Offender Search

The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction (NC DAC) offers an online offender search tool that provides comprehensive information about inmates within the state prison system. This tool is user-friendly and accessible to the public, allowing anyone to search for inmates by name, offender number, or other identifying details.

To use the NC DAC offender search tool, one can visit the NC DAC website and navigate to the offender search section. Users can enter the inmate’s first and last name, offender number, or other relevant details. The search results will display information about the inmate’s current location, projected release date, and sentence details.

The NC DAC offender search provides a wealth of information about each inmate. This includes personal information (such as age, gender, and race), incarceration details (such as facility location and security level), and sentence information (such as offense date, conviction date, and sentence length). Additionally, the tool may provide information about past incarcerations and parole or probation status.

One of the key benefits of the NC DAC offender search is its accuracy and reliability. The database is regularly updated by the department to reflect current inmate statuses and locations. This makes it a trusted resource for those needing to verify an inmate’s information or track their status within the state correctional system.

For those unfamiliar with the system, the NC DAC website also provides user guides and FAQs to assist with the search process. This ensures that even individuals with limited experience can effectively use the tool to find the information they need.

VINELink Offender Search

VINELink is a nationwide online service that provides information about inmates and their custody status. In North Carolina, VINELink is a valuable resource for locating inmates and receiving notifications about changes in their status. This service is especially useful for victims of crimes, family members, and legal professionals who need to stay informed about an inmate’s custody status.

To use VINELink in North Carolina, users can visit the VINELink website or use the mobile app. The search function allows users to enter the inmate’s name, ID number, or other identifying information. VINELink then provides details about the inmate’s current location, custody status, and any recent changes, such as transfers or releases.

One of the key features of VINELink is its notification service. Users can sign up to receive notifications via email, phone, or text message about changes in an inmate’s custody status. This includes notifications about transfers, releases, escapes, and other significant events. This feature is particularly important for victims of crimes who need to be aware of an inmate’s movements for their safety.

VINELink also provides a degree of anonymity and security for users. Those who sign up for notifications do not need to provide personal information beyond what is necessary to receive alerts. This makes it a secure and trusted tool for those concerned about privacy and safety.

Other Third-Party Websites

Several third-party websites offer inmate search services for North Carolina. These websites aggregate data from multiple sources, including county jails, state prisons, and federal facilities, to provide comprehensive search results.

These third-party websites can be particularly useful for conducting broad searches across different jurisdictions. Users can enter the inmate’s name or other identifying information to receive search results from various counties and states. This can save time and effort compared to searching each county or state database individually.

However, it is important to note that the accuracy and currency of the information on third-party websites can vary. While these sites aim to provide up-to-date data, there can be delays in updating information from official sources. Therefore, it is always recommended to verify the information obtained from third-party websites with official county or state databases.

Another consideration when using third-party websites is the potential for fees. Some of these services may charge for access to detailed reports or additional features. Users should be aware of any costs associated with using these websites and weigh the benefits against the availability of free official resources.

Despite these limitations, third-party websites can be a valuable tool for conducting comprehensive inmate searches, especially when trying to locate individuals across multiple jurisdictions or when official resources are not easily accessible.

Offline Search Options for Locating an Inmate

Locating an inmate offline in North Carolina involves several traditional methods, which can be particularly useful when online resources are unavailable or insufficient. These methods include contacting the correctional facility directly, utilizing telephone hotlines, and visiting the facility in person.

One of the primary offline methods is to contact the correctional facility directly. Each state prison and county jail in North Carolina has administrative offices that handle inquiries about inmates. By calling the facility’s main phone number, you can speak with administrative staff who can provide information about an inmate’s location, status, and visiting hours. It is helpful to have as much information as possible, such as the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and any known ID numbers, to facilitate the search process.

Another method is to use telephone hotlines provided by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction and some county jails. These hotlines are designed to assist the public in obtaining information about inmates. For instance, the NC DAC may have a dedicated line for inmate information, where staff can provide updates on an inmate’s status and location. These hotlines are particularly useful for quick inquiries or for those who do not have access to the internet.

Visiting the correctional facility in person is another effective offline method. This approach allows for face-to-face interaction with administrative staff and can often yield the most accurate and up-to-date information. When visiting, it is important to bring identification and any relevant details about the inmate. This method can be time-consuming and may require appointments or specific visiting hours, but it can be very effective for obtaining detailed information.

In addition to these methods, contacting the inmate’s lawyer or a legal aid organization can also be helpful. Lawyers often have access to detailed records and can provide insights into the inmate’s legal status and location. Legal aid organizations can offer assistance and may have additional resources for locating inmates, especially for those who are navigating the system for the first time.

Information Available on Inmate Search

The information available through inmate searches in North Carolina can vary depending on the resource used but generally includes several key details. This information helps family members, legal professionals, and other interested parties stay informed about an inmate’s status and location.

Basic personal information is typically included in inmate search results. This includes the inmate’s full name, date of birth, gender, and sometimes a mugshot. This basic data helps to confirm the identity of the inmate being searched for and ensures that the correct individual is located.

Details about the inmate’s incarceration are also commonly provided. This includes the facility where the inmate is currently housed, the security level of the facility, and the inmate’s housing unit or cell location. Knowing the facility’s details can help with planning visits and understanding the security protocols in place.

Information about the inmate’s legal status is another critical aspect of search results. This includes the charges or convictions that led to the incarceration, the length of the sentence, and important dates such as the arrest date, conviction date, and projected release date. This information helps in understanding the inmate’s legal situation and any potential for early release or parole.

Additional information may include details about the inmate’s behavior and participation in programs while incarcerated. Some databases provide information about disciplinary actions, participation in rehabilitation programs, and educational achievements. This information can be useful for family members and legal professionals monitoring the inmate’s progress and behavior.

Legal Considerations and Limitations

Conducting an inmate search in North Carolina involves several legal considerations and limitations that must be understood to navigate the process effectively. These considerations ensure that the rights of inmates and the integrity of the correctional system are maintained.

One of the primary legal considerations is the protection of inmate privacy. While inmate records are generally public, certain personal information is protected under privacy laws. This includes sensitive information such as medical records, detailed personal histories, and any information that could compromise the safety and security of the inmate or others. Agencies must balance the need for public access to information with the need to protect individual privacy rights.

Access to inmate information is also governed by various state and federal laws. For example, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and North Carolina’s Public Records Law provide guidelines on what information can be requested and disclosed. These laws ensure transparency while also setting boundaries on the type and amount of information that can be released. Understanding these laws is crucial for anyone conducting an inmate search to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues.

There are also limitations related to the accuracy and timeliness of information. Inmate databases are updated regularly, but there can be delays or errors in the information provided. It is important to verify details with official sources and be aware that information can change quickly due to transfers, releases, or other administrative actions. Users must approach inmate search results with the understanding that they reflect the best available data at the time but may not always be current.

Another significant limitation is the availability of information for inmates in federal or out-of-state facilities. While North Carolina’s systems provide comprehensive data for state and county inmates, those held in federal prisons or transferred to other states may not be as easily searchable through the same resources. In these cases, additional steps, such as contacting federal facilities or using national databases, may be necessary.



The Salisbury Confederate Prison Association, Inc. P.O. Box 393 Salisbury, NC 28145-0393	About Salisbury Confederate Prison Association, Inc The Salisbury Confederate Prison Association, Inc. is a non-profit organization established in April 1999, dedicated to preserving the history of the Salisbury Confederate Prison in North Carolina. This organization focuses on promoting understanding and preservation of the site and the historical events that took place there during the Civil War. Salisbury Confederate Prison, located in Salisbury, North Carolina, was originally a cotton factory before being repurposed as a prison in 1861. It housed Union soldiers captured by Confederate forces, and over its four years of operation, it became notorious for its overcrowded and harsh conditions, particularly in the latter part of the war. The prison witnessed a significant loss of life due to disease, malnutrition, and inadequate shelter, marking it as one of the grim sites of the Civil War. The association conducts research, collects and compiles information about the prisoners who were held there, and shares findings through various channels such as lectures, tours, and a quarterly newsletter named "The Prison Exchange." Membership is open to anyone interested in this history, with annual dues supporting their activities. Mission and Objectives The Salisbury Confederate Prison Association focuses on several core objectives: Preservation of Historical Sites The association works to preserve the remnants of the prison site and its surrounding areas. This includes maintaining any remaining structures, artifacts, and landscapes that are historically significant. Education and Research Educating the public about the history of the Salisbury Confederate Prison is a key mission. The association organizes lectures, tours, and educational programs. Additionally, it supports research efforts by providing resources and archives to historians and scholars. Commemoration and Memorials Honoring the memory of those who were imprisoned and perished at Salisbury is a fundamental part of the association's activities. This includes organizing memorial services, maintaining cemeteries, and erecting monuments to ensure that the stories of the prisoners are not forgotten. Activities and Programs The Salisbury Confederate Prison Association offers a variety of programs and activities to fulfill its mission: Historical Tours: Guided tours of the prison site and related historical locations are provided to give visitors a detailed understanding of the prison's history and its impact during the Civil War. Educational Workshops: Workshops and seminars are conducted to educate teachers, students, and the general public about the Civil War era and the specific history of Salisbury Confederate Prison. Preservation Projects: The association undertakes various preservation projects, such as restoring artifacts, conserving documents, and maintaining the structural integrity of any surviving buildings related to the prison. Research Support: Supporting academic and independent research is a key activity. The association offers access to archives, documents, and other historical resources that are crucial for in-depth studies of the prison and its significance. Membership and Donations Membership in the Salisbury Confederate Prison Association is open to anyone interested in supporting its mission. Members receive regular updates, newsletters, and invitations to special events. Donations are also crucial for the association's operations, funding preservation projects, educational programs, and memorial activities. The Salisbury Confederate Prison Association is governed by a board of directors, which includes historians, preservationists, and community leaders. The board oversees the strategic direction, financial management, and programmatic activities of the organization to ensure alignment with its mission. Inmate Search in North Carolina The inmate search process in North Carolina involves several methods and resources, both online and offline, to locate individuals incarcerated within the state. This process is essential for family members, legal professionals, and others needing to verify an inmate’s location or status. The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction (NC DAC) is primarily responsible for maintaining and providing access to inmate records. These records include information about the inmate’s current location, sentence details, and release dates. In North Carolina, the inmate search process begins with understanding the structure of the correctional system. The state has various facilities, including state prisons, county jails, and federal prisons. Each of these facilities may have its database or system for tracking inmates. The NC DAC oversees state prisons, while individual county sheriffs manage county jails. The Federal Bureau of Prisons handles federal inmates, though these are less common for state-specific searches. Online Inmate Search Methods Conducting an online search for current inmates in North Carolina counties involves accessing the individual county’s jail or sheriff’s department website. Each county typically maintains its database of current inmates, which is accessible to the public. These databases are often updated daily and include information such as the inmate’s name, booking date, charges, and bond amount. To start, one must visit the specific county’s website where the inmate is believed to be housed. For example, Wake County, Mecklenburg County, and Guilford County all have dedicated inmate search portals. These portals allow users to search by name, booking number, or other identifying information. The search results provide details about the inmate’s current status, charges, and next court dates. The information provided by county inmate search tools can be highly detailed. It typically includes the inmate’s mugshot, demographic details (age, gender, race), the facility where they are housed, and a list of charges. Some counties may also provide additional information such as court dates, bail amounts, and past offenses. It is also possible to conduct a more generalized search through third-party websites that aggregate data from multiple county databases. These websites can provide a broader search capability but may not always have the most up-to-date information. It is often recommended to verify details through official county websites for the most current data. North Carolina Department of Adult Correction Offender Search The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction (NC DAC) offers an online offender search tool that provides comprehensive information about inmates within the state prison system. This tool is user-friendly and accessible to the public, allowing anyone to search for inmates by name, offender number, or other identifying details. To use the NC DAC offender search tool, one can visit the NC DAC website and navigate to the offender search section. Users can enter the inmate’s first and last name, offender number, or other relevant details. The search results will display information about the inmate’s current location, projected release date, and sentence details. The NC DAC offender search provides a wealth of information about each inmate. This includes personal information (such as age, gender, and race), incarceration details (such as facility location and security level), and sentence information (such as offense date, conviction date, and sentence length). Additionally, the tool may provide information about past incarcerations and parole or probation status. One of the key benefits of the NC DAC offender search is its accuracy and reliability. The database is regularly updated by the department to reflect current inmate statuses and locations. This makes it a trusted resource for those needing to verify an inmate’s information or track their status within the state correctional system. For those unfamiliar with the system, the NC DAC website also provides user guides and FAQs to assist with the search process. This ensures that even individuals with limited experience can effectively use the tool to find the information they need. VINELink Offender Search VINELink is a nationwide online service that provides information about inmates and their custody status. In North Carolina, VINELink is a valuable resource for locating inmates and receiving notifications about changes in their status. This service is especially useful for victims of crimes, family members, and legal professionals who need to stay informed about an inmate’s custody status. To use VINELink in North Carolina, users can visit the VINELink website or use the mobile app. The search function allows users to enter the inmate’s name, ID number, or other identifying information. VINELink then provides details about the inmate’s current location, custody status, and any recent changes, such as transfers or releases. One of the key features of VINELink is its notification service. Users can sign up to receive notifications via email, phone, or text message about changes in an inmate’s custody status. This includes notifications about transfers, releases, escapes, and other significant events. This feature is particularly important for victims of crimes who need to be aware of an inmate’s movements for their safety. VINELink also provides a degree of anonymity and security for users. Those who sign up for notifications do not need to provide personal information beyond what is necessary to receive alerts. This makes it a secure and trusted tool for those concerned about privacy and safety. Other Third-Party Websites Several third-party websites offer inmate search services for North Carolina. These websites aggregate data from multiple sources, including county jails, state prisons, and federal facilities, to provide comprehensive search results. These third-party websites can be particularly useful for conducting broad searches across different jurisdictions. Users can enter the inmate’s name or other identifying information to receive search results from various counties and states. This can save time and effort compared to searching each county or state database individually. However, it is important to note that the accuracy and currency of the information on third-party websites can vary. While these sites aim to provide up-to-date data, there can be delays in updating information from official sources. Therefore, it is always recommended to verify the information obtained from third-party websites with official county or state databases. Another consideration when using third-party websites is the potential for fees. Some of these services may charge for access to detailed reports or additional features. Users should be aware of any costs associated with using these websites and weigh the benefits against the availability of free official resources. Despite these limitations, third-party websites can be a valuable tool for conducting comprehensive inmate searches, especially when trying to locate individuals across multiple jurisdictions or when official resources are not easily accessible. Offline Search Options for Locating an Inmate Locating an inmate offline in North Carolina involves several traditional methods, which can be particularly useful when online resources are unavailable or insufficient. These methods include contacting the correctional facility directly, utilizing telephone hotlines, and visiting the facility in person. One of the primary offline methods is to contact the correctional facility directly. Each state prison and county jail in North Carolina has administrative offices that handle inquiries about inmates. By calling the facility’s main phone number, you can speak with administrative staff who can provide information about an inmate’s location, status, and visiting hours. It is helpful to have as much information as possible, such as the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and any known ID numbers, to facilitate the search process. Another method is to use telephone hotlines provided by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction and some county jails. These hotlines are designed to assist the public in obtaining information about inmates. For instance, the NC DAC may have a dedicated line for inmate information, where staff can provide updates on an inmate’s status and location. These hotlines are particularly useful for quick inquiries or for those who do not have access to the internet. Visiting the correctional facility in person is another effective offline method. This approach allows for face-to-face interaction with administrative staff and can often yield the most accurate and up-to-date information. When visiting, it is important to bring identification and any relevant details about the inmate. This method can be time-consuming and may require appointments or specific visiting hours, but it can be very effective for obtaining detailed information. In addition to these methods, contacting the inmate’s lawyer or a legal aid organization can also be helpful. Lawyers often have access to detailed records and can provide insights into the inmate’s legal status and location. Legal aid organizations can offer assistance and may have additional resources for locating inmates, especially for those who are navigating the system for the first time. Information Available on Inmate Search The information available through inmate searches in North Carolina can vary depending on the resource used but generally includes several key details. This information helps family members, legal professionals, and other interested parties stay informed about an inmate’s status and location. Basic personal information is typically included in inmate search results. This includes the inmate’s full name, date of birth, gender, and sometimes a mugshot. This basic data helps to confirm the identity of the inmate being searched for and ensures that the correct individual is located. Details about the inmate’s incarceration are also commonly provided. This includes the facility where the inmate is currently housed, the security level of the facility, and the inmate’s housing unit or cell location. Knowing the facility’s details can help with planning visits and understanding the security protocols in place. Information about the inmate’s legal status is another critical aspect of search results. This includes the charges or convictions that led to the incarceration, the length of the sentence, and important dates such as the arrest date, conviction date, and projected release date. This information helps in understanding the inmate’s legal situation and any potential for early release or parole. Additional information may include details about the inmate’s behavior and participation in programs while incarcerated. Some databases provide information about disciplinary actions, participation in rehabilitation programs, and educational achievements. This information can be useful for family members and legal professionals monitoring the inmate’s progress and behavior. Legal Considerations and Limitations Conducting an inmate search in North Carolina involves several legal considerations and limitations that must be understood to navigate the process effectively. These considerations ensure that the rights of inmates and the integrity of the correctional system are maintained. One of the primary legal considerations is the protection of inmate privacy. While inmate records are generally public, certain personal information is protected under privacy laws. This includes sensitive information such as medical records, detailed personal histories, and any information that could compromise the safety and security of the inmate or others. Agencies must balance the need for public access to information with the need to protect individual privacy rights. Access to inmate information is also governed by various state and federal laws. For example, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and North Carolina’s Public Records Law provide guidelines on what information can be requested and disclosed. These laws ensure transparency while also setting boundaries on the type and amount of information that can be released. Understanding these laws is crucial for anyone conducting an inmate search to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues. There are also limitations related to the accuracy and timeliness of information. Inmate databases are updated regularly, but there can be delays or errors in the information provided. It is important to verify details with official sources and be aware that information can change quickly due to transfers, releases, or other administrative actions. Users must approach inmate search results with the understanding that they reflect the best available data at the time but may not always be current. Another significant limitation is the availability of information for inmates in federal or out-of-state facilities. While North Carolina’s systems provide comprehensive data for state and county inmates, those held in federal prisons or transferred to other states may not be as easily searchable through the same resources. In these cases, additional steps, such as contacting federal facilities or using national databases, may be necessary.

About Salisbury Confederate Prison Association, Inc