'Reminiscences of a Southern Hospital, by Its Matron' Summary

Phoebe Yates Pember's memoir, "Reminiscences of a Southern Hospital, by Its Matron," provides a firsthand account of her experiences as a matron in the Confederate Chimborazo military hospital in Richmond, Virginia, during the Civil War. Pember, who initially faced skepticism and resistance due to her gender, gradually gained control and respect within the hospital, overseeing the dietary kitchen and managing the distribution of supplies. Her memoir offers a glimpse into the daily routines and challenges of hospital life, including the preparation of meals, the care of wounded soldiers, and the emotional toll of witnessing the horrors of war. Pember also provides vivid descriptions of the prisoner exchange of November 1864 and the evacuation and burning of Richmond in 1865, offering a unique perspective on these pivotal events. Through Pember's eyes, we witness the resilience and determination of both the wounded soldiers and the women who cared for them, highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of women during the Civil War.