Benjamin H. Johnson Memoir
This collection contains one copy of "Return to Freedom," a typescript memoir written by Benjamin H. Johnson. Originally penned in 1973, Johnson revised his work in 1987. The 60-page manuscript details Johnson's World War II experiences in Europe, particularly as a prisoner of war. The memoir also covers his pre- and post-war years and includes copies of photographs, articles, letters, and other documents alongside Johnson's writings.
Dates
- 1987
Conditions Governing Access
Collections are stored offsite and must be requested in advance. See www.special.lib.utk.edu for detailed information. Collections must be requested through a registered Special Collections research account.
Conditions Governing Use
The UT Libraries claims only physical ownership of most material in the collections. Persons wishing to broadcast or publish this material must assume all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any claimants on www.special.lib.utk.edu for detailed information. Collections must be requested through a registered Special Collections research account.
Extent
0.1 Linear Feet (1 folder)
Overview
This collection contains one copy of "Return to Freedom," a typescript memoir written by Benjamin H. Johnson. Originally penned in 1973, Johnson revised his work in 1987. The 60-page manuscript details Johnson's World War II experiences in Europe, particularly as a prisoner of war. The memoir also covers his pre- and post-war years and includes copies of photographs, articles, letters, and other documents alongside Johnson's writings.
Biographical / Historical
Benjamin Harriel Johnson was born on January 5, 1922, to William Robert and Mary Jane Human Johnson in Sunbright, Tennessee. He was drafted in October 1942, and arrived in Liverpool, England, on April 15, 1944. On July 7, 1944, Johnson and others were captured by German officers and taken to Stalag 4-B by train. He was liberated on April 16, 1945, exactly one year after arriving in England. Following the war, Johnson married Patricia Eby in 1955. Johnson died September 25, 1997, and is buried in Davidson County.
Arrangement
This collection is in one folder.
Previous Citation
This collection was previously listed as part of MS.1881.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
This collection was donated through the University of Tennessee's Center for the Study of War and Society.
Repository Details
Part of the Betsey B. Creekmore Special Collections and University Archives, University of Tennessee, Knoxville Repository